Starting off with the right foot forward
The proven levelling system.
by Oligo San
08/21/98

Intro
Sure, everyone has started off at the Vallenwood tree before in Solace and has often wondered when those damn squirrels would repop. Then when would those worms ever repop in the sewers. However there are definitely faster ways to expedite the process so you can quickly emerge from the ranks of newbie to mid-lev. Please note that this guide is mainly geared for folks evil in alignment.

Levels (1-6)
Perhaps the most commonly known tactic is the clerical method most often implemented in Bali4. Basically the requirements are a pzarer (cleric with heal), and yourself (a level 1 sucker). Then have the cleric mem some heals, a bless, curses, and blinds and proceed to find your victim. Now the victim you're looking for is the town watchman, which should be bountiful in Bali4. Once you've found your lone watchman, have the cleric bless you, and have the cleric curse and blind the watchman. Dual wield, and have the cleric remove his/her weapons. Then have the cleric proceed and attack the watchman. After your cleric has initiated the attack, you may assist, and each connected weapon hit that you achieve will result in experience gaining. Obviously, the harder you hit, the greater the experience gained. This method will work effectively up to about level 6. However you can start rejecting bad characters at level 2. This is because stats are re-rolled at this point and therefore your permanent stats are determined. Once you reach level 2 you should be actively doing strength tests. There is one approach that can get you from level 1 to 2 faster than the clerical method. In fact, I've timed it myself and only takes about 20 seconds to go from level 1 to 2. I'll only tease you with that knowledge and won't letcha know how. But I will give a hint that it takes place around Kalaman.

Of course, another procedure, is to kill higher level characters than yourself. Sometimes this is deemed illegal or breaking the rules though.

Levels (6-10)
For good experience around this level, I'd hit the Dwarven Keep west of the Bali4 crossroads. You have to watch out for which ones you can handle, and some of them assist. You can also hit the merchant camp which is just south of the Bali4 x-roads since you're in the area. There is also that sash zone northeast of Kalaman, but only the green sashed folks will be somewhat challenging at this level.

Levels (10-15)
The Solamnic Outpost east of Solace is a great place for packing on the levels in a hurry. The 1st room can be a little messy, so it may be easiest to do this with a mage who can invis you past them. Once you're inside there's loads of good experience for evil-doers. Another good area is Thorbardin. I'm speaking mainly about the market area including the merchant guards and the merchants themselves. They do wander a lot and assist, so you have to be cautious. You can also hit the tower area which includes the dwarven sentries, sergeants, and captain. The tower part of Kalaman is also good experience. Most likely the Rose Knights will kick your ass, but the lesser grade knights are feasible with a right sized group.

Levels (20+)
By now, you should become familiar with what's good for experience. To help you get from level 20 to high levels (25+), Que Kul should be an easy zone with great experience. The Que Kul crypts are also very good.

Strength testing
Strength tests can be conducted in various ways. Oftentimes they're used with what weapons you are able to wield or which ones u can offhand. Sometimes they're used with how many object u can carry. Regardless find out for yourself which is most convenient. If you're starting out in Solace, then perhaps the barrel testing method is your best bet. Make sure you're completely naked before performing this test.

Barrel Method
I'll do barrel charts once I get some info. In general being able to carry 3 full barrels of beer is 18+ str. 4 full barrels is 24+ str.

Weapon Method
For weapon strength tests I personally use the Giant's Hammer. This hammer requires 22 strength to wield 1-handed so it's my favorite primary tester of choice. The massive club requires 24 strength to wield one handed and may also be used for testing. The Bloodstained Battle Axe requires 20 strength to wield 1-handed. Being able to offhand a charred long sword signifies 18+ strength I believe. If you have any suggestions or have found anything that's useful for strength testing, please submit them to me.