Post by Todd on Jul 27, 2016 8:29:38 GMT -5
To consolidate discussions about issue 2.1, I would humbly suggest we move all relevant questions, observations, and excitement to this heading. That way those who join later will have an easier time finding and reviewing the efforts of those who came before them, which will no doubt aid their subsequent efforts to catch up.
As was recorded elsewhere, the curios included with this issue included a business card for a Consulting Occultist, A label to a can of peas, a small piece of paper with a cipher wrapped around a wooden disk with the initials of F.E. on one side, and a Zeppelin ticket that belongs to Dr. Klaus Henrich.
This issue is considerably larger than those that preceded it, so there is a lot to read, study, and solve. Happy sleuthing, everyone!
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
It appears I have been stumped by the confounded crossword puzzle. I'm sure I'm not the first, nor will I be the last. The clues I'm stuck on are as follows:
Across: 6, 12, 17, 22, 25, 32, 36 Down: 4, 5, 10, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 24, 26, 34
With my luck, I am sure that now that I have sought out assistance, the answers will become clear to me.
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Speaking of the crossword, probably me missing the obvious but what do the numbers in brackets mean after the clues?
Ohforf
Posted 6 months ago
Ohforf, It is my understanding that the answers to the crossword will form a secret message when rearranged in the order specified by the numbers in parentheses. In other words, (1) is the first word in the message, (2) is the second word in the message, etc. This is my first issue, so perhaps a more seasoned sleuther might have more information for you, but that is the nature of the crossword that I have gathered from lurking in the Sitting Room...
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Maestro has the right of it.
Kittendumpling
Posted 6 months ago
I also received the same items as put forth by Chelsea, M.C. ()could it be that the letter on the disk are from the periodic table?()
Ghared Corwall
Posted 6 months ago
A sound guess, Ghared, but I'm afraid in this case a little off the mark. A good starting place might be to identify what type of cipher one is dealing with in regards to the wooden disc and the scrap of text wrapped around it. Caesar? Substitution? Vigenere? Numbers? One time pad? The choices are, thankfully, limited...
I wish I could shed more light on the problem, but...
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Thanks Chelsea I haven't really dove into the issue yet just got it yesterday, I was just going on the quick look at the issue and was thinking it might be tide to the add about pure white lead but will defiantly dive deeper tonight!
Ghared Corwall
Posted 6 months ago
I feel that 17 across is NUMBER, 10 down is PUZZLE, and 12 across is USEFUL.
Aerienelle
Posted 6 months ago
Why is there no 10 or 33 across?
Aerienelle
Posted 6 months ago
Redactions!
There simply is no 10 or 33 across.
For some of the other clues, 6A might be what one would hear yelled while standing in a queue. 5D is one of the most common words in the English language, as well as in the crosswords.
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
The cipher used may be relatrd to he Great Cupher as used by Louis XIV in the article of the man in the iron mask, however that one used numbers for letter pairings.
Aerienelle
Posted 6 months ago
*related. Typographical errors are common when one uses a phone's keyboard.
Aerienelle
Posted 6 months ago
I hope this does not count as spoilers, but I for one had difficulties reading the encrypted wrapper so as a service to others, I have transcribed the uncoded text for research purposes.
Amcktvir,
Nlogjcolfvejzjfzhmeeypywfqicnernnxhvsgrpuxifsxoijgoxsmsvfzixjreijgygmirnminptysvjsnv.dsuiqmfvnwielveryhaelir.zyvivixonfvnptyryzwbrsh, blyleunhnfypijyin, jtlecqfeeyaajmioemmshziskksrkmitizxh.zyaajs'xujblounhhzrmn, zryskfwslwiyfz.mtnfwtyjwotnitptjzfxmmfx.xhvdlamjfevslueymnxzwffwhetfhej, frdvswuinrgkmetetsnvjpsvlitjhpojj.colwlujgenulsttqssv.sswptyhraiajbilc.
Wyn, mngtfwma.izrtfylewfvtyjwtttvnvwwowylevfvty.ylezwverhlijairplvery, fuknxijsstzsjienxe.njroctrgvwlamjxhvwisfzvcvxxogwstvhxyfz, aikmqeyfzielkoejynujvgitynu, yletzvaktvhramnxmmdujrhzrweckewrdaikmsukftpfnrtzskaejaaiymsrssrgwsfvxwoi.fxlvfwtkmicfqpetymoenwsrkifitqtyjq.tyfxijtrekmmnxyletzvaktvijlsoufx.
Innplxjxieysutmaikmcolfwsftrajngae.dsuujweiaitfpronylekwyty.nnujylogjxhvdhoe'yjieiqewnvsk.
Blakylepmevvisnvysujbmlcsstxtyn-rainxjh.a.d.
The Cap'n, W.F.J.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Oh. My goodness. I apologize. I could have sworn I redacted that. How embarrassing.
Its like my friend ATticus BASHir would say, "R hxivdvw gszg fk, wrwm'g R?"
The Cap'n, W.F.J.C.
Posted 6 months ago
My dear Chelsea, M.C. Yet again you have illuminated me and shed light upon another mystery involving the F.E. button.
Ghared Corwall
Posted 6 months ago
Ahh! A cypher broken! now is the time for good Scotch and a Cigar! I have know Fear and it has led the way!
Ghared Corwall
Posted 6 months ago
Has anyone made progress on figuring out the numbers down the inside margins of several pages? I find myself inexplicably stumped by them...
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Chelsea, note the highest number on either side of the colon is twenty. Look for something that matches 20 x 20. :-)
enaxor
Posted 6 months ago
Bless you.
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
If anyone has pointers on 36 Across, 26 down and 34 down, I'm interested.
The Cap'n, W.F.J.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Chelsea -- now that the solution presents itself, it is worth noting that those seemingly random words were the first to point the way. I wonder if you take my (or their) meaning, and I look forward to discussing the newly deciphered riddle.
Blackbird
Posted 6 months ago
Captain- for 26D, it could be both the act of writing down, as well as the written paper itself. for 34D, I would suggest a basic online search from which you should be able to narrow down the array of producers.
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Thank you all I would be so lost and have had no idea where to start with out some direction.
Alan G
Posted 6 months ago
No worries, Alan!
It is a lot to take in, especially for those who have just started the adventure with Volume 2, and maybe the catch-up kit (highly recommended). The story is constantly growing, evolving, and I suspect will continue to do so going forward. Welcome to the team!
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Has anyone else discovered The Hands Of Time puzzle? Any thoughts or comments are much appreciated.
Enigma
Posted 6 months ago
You may find that it bears a striking resemblance, both in location and format, to the Bound Man puzzle of the previous issue.... A similar approach might serve you well...
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Unfortunately, I do not have that issue, as I have not yet ordered my catch-up kit. This is my first issue of C&C. Is there a discussion somewhere that might be able to provide a starting point or some clues?
Enigma
Posted 6 months ago
Good evening friends, We have solved most of the crossword, however we seem to stuck on 15, 22, and 36 A and 5, 13, 16, 21, 23, and 24 D. any advice?
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
I was also curious about the H of T. A clue as to how to begin would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Having finally had the time tonight to pour over the various mysteries, I solved the paired numbers although it seems more a general statement about MPC than a specific clue. I've also dashed through the dotting of my I's, but haven't figured out how to use that clue yet. And finished about 3/4 of the crossword.
Does completing the Word Search actually help with the mysteries, or is it just used for other things?
Black Cavalier
Posted 6 months ago
For those seeking clues to unravel the secrets of the hands of time, I would suggest perusing the thread for the previous issue, entitled "The Venerable Store of Nell". Just to make it extra simple, it can be found here: www.mysteriouspackage.com/products/curios-and-conundrums/sitting_room/85
Black Cavalier- I find it is best to solve whatever can be solved. It can often prove helpful in unexpected ways.
Boneduster- Have you made progress on the Crossword? I believe there are several clues scattered throughout this and other threads, but I am happy to provide more, if needed.
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Alas, I have brushed up on the Bound Man, and I am as perplexed as ever... I think I may be on to something regarding The Hands of Time, but perhaps someone could message me offlist so that I may see if I am on the right path? My email is mtjandt@gmail.com
Thanks for the assistance.
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Those who are still struggling with the Hands of Time puzzle may find the postcard referenced in this thread to be of some use: www.mysteriouspackage.com/products/curios-and-conundrums/sitting_room/60
Eleanor, aka "The Bardess"
Posted 6 months ago
Said postcard is discussed in more detail here: www.mysteriouspackage.com/products/curios-and-conundrums/sitting_room/18
Eleanor, aka "The Bardess"
Posted 6 months ago
Good evening again, it seems the big one I am stuck on is 15A. If I had that, the rest should HOPEFULLY fall into place haha
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
Also there is some inner debate about 5D. I believe it may may be thell as it is a male pronoun with extra T. any thoughts?
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
Can anyone advise me as to where to find the back tick character on an iPad?
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
Boneduster, for 15A, a homophobe is a word that sounds the same but is spelled differently. The 2 words referenced in the clue are very common and in more recent times, their spelling is frequently switched. Also, there's a third very common word that is another homophone of the 1st two.
For 5 D, see my comment on the group chat thread.
Black Cavalier
Posted 6 months ago
Boneduster, the answer to 15A is not ours to share.
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
Lady S, thank you, after I figured it out a bunch just fell into place. 4 more to go!
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
Black Cavalier- thank you for clarifying 5D. I too was stumped by that one.
I feel I am close to solving the crossword, but the answers for 16D, 18D, 20D, 23D, 24D, as well as 22A, 32A, and 36A continue to elude me. Any clues?
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Maestro, The beginning of the phrase in reference to newspapers that ends in READ ALL ABOUT IT! should help
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
Sorry Maestro, in reference to 22A
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
Brethren,
I am struggling with 36A - any hints available to me?
As ever, yours,
mskimie
Posted 6 months ago
Dear mskimie, think about what other word could replace addition in the context of what the clue is saying, then 'question' the second part of the clue.
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
Dear Maestro, for 24D, think about things people do with databases.
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
I think that the confusion with 5D is that it is only three letters and not five.
Enigma
Posted 6 months ago
I've come up with a crazy connection between the 4 pictures in the latest issue.
San Antonio Spurs basketball in Texas
Lance Armstrong was born in Plano Texas
The bird is probably a Rhea and there is a town called Rhea in Texas
Austin texas has a woman's basketball called the Texas Storm
So in a real stretch, could the commonality be Texas?
Black Cavalier
Posted 6 months ago
Black Cavalier, that's a really interesting thought.
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
Here's another, possibly more plausible, but less complete one for the pictures.
The article.about the Greek drinking game compares it to basketball. The 1st picture is a basket ball. I haven't figured out the San Antonio reference.
Not sure on lance Armstrong, but Hercules could be considered to be arm-strong and would have certainly been the person most likely to be on steroids in classic Greece.
Assuming again that the bird is a Rhea, the Titan Rhea was Zeus' mother and a based on Virgil's Aeneid a different Rhea had a son Aventinus with Hercules.
Zeus is the God of storms and Hercules' father.
So the commonality could be Greece, Greek mythology or specifically Hercules. OTOH, Rhea was also the name of the mother of Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, and Jupiter is the Roman God of Lightning. So it might be Rome or roman mythology too.
Black Cavalier
Posted 6 months ago
I cannot for the life of me unravel 36A. The only things I can come up with don't make sense in the context of the underlying message, nor can I actually connect it to women, as the clue requires. Lady Samurai's hint just led me to the same answer I had already considered, which must mean I am surely not understanding you correctly.
Black Cavalier, Hercules/Herakles was the same path I was pondering for that puzzle. Although, I do like your Texas solution!
As for the number-pair puzzle, to me it sounds like they are just telling us where to find the vault on this website.
Elim Horton
Posted 6 months ago
36A seems to be proving quite difficult for many of us. If it helps, the first part of the clue is an anagram for "board," while the second part is what one might call the actors in a play.
Eleanor, aka "The Bardess"
Posted 6 months ago
Ah! Thank you!
Elim Horton
Posted 6 months ago
Friends, I am stuck only on 16 and 21 down. any clues discovered?
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
Hi Boneduster. For 16D, you could consult this from the MPC for more information on how to solve codes. For 21D, I think they actually mean REMOVE two S's. What letters could the way out have in common with a state of being?
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
Also for 16D... it's only eight letters long, not ten as it looks... the 9th space is unused
Elim Horton
Posted 6 months ago
Lady Samurai,
Is the answer for 16D geometric in nature? Or am I off track again?
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
This is a bit of a #humblebrag, but I think that I may have solved the crossword finally! (With lots of help from all of you; many thanks). Only one answer I'm not entirely sure of - the word fits, but I don't understand the context as of yet.
Now to move on to the paired numbers - If only I could track down the correct edition of the cipher document
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Success! Thank you Eleanor! Your clue helped me finally solve 36A, and complete crossword.
Enigma
Posted 6 months ago
Hello Maestro. that's a little off track. Think about what the words mean separately. It helped me when I looked up the translation in Google translation svcs. Good luck!
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
I believe I have finally sorted the cross word and the number pairs. Any suggestions on what to tackle next?
Professor Cominius Oberon Balt
Posted 6 months ago
Greetings Professor. I am PEASed to make your acquaintance. I would love to help you, but I must DASH out and replenish my supply of snowcaps and DOTS. Good luck on your endeavors.
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
I still need help on 6A, 32A, 21D, and 26D. The secret message that I have so far is The vault door can now be accessed a - has been hidden extra with the curators prize there - a secret - - the behind number broadcast to solve one puzzle your handsoff may prove useful. I REALLY feel like I may have gotten a few of the words wrong. Which ones were they?
Also, for the morse code puzzle I got H P Q F W O R T E P S I U R O G E S N P E 4 Like with the last one, I feel like I did something wrong.
Also, first time posting on any of these boards. Sorry if I broke any rules.
Alexander Thorn
Posted 6 months ago
Good show, Mr Thorn!! But...what would you shout to the first person in line? And I beleive Liber pertains to book.... Don't be afraid to break "rules" the chaps here are quite accommodating.
Lord Henry Bolton
Posted 6 months ago
And as for the Morse, try translating it the other direction... That should do the trick!
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Alex, Pertaining the morse code, perhaps you are reading it upside down? The letters should create a rather straight forward message, no decoding necessary.
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Maestro, can you give me a hint on what to do with the peas label? I seem to be stuck. Thanks!
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
I completed the crossword fairly quickly, but I am still struggling with the number pairs. Any additional hints would be appreciated.
Portia Ashman
Posted 6 months ago
Hello Alexander. For 32A, the woman in the clue may send you an angry one of these if you count her candles and tell.
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
Lady Samurai,
I have not found anything special on the actual label, however, if you find the related story in the C&C, I think you will be a little less puzzled.
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Thanks Maestro, that will be my priority after work tonight!
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
Just wondering... we have a username and a password, but do we have the location for those yet?
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Maestro, I was going to ask the same question. I haven't found the location yet.
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
I am having a bit of trouble finding The secret message in the crossword. Should I use the numbers next to the clues? A tap in the right direction would be most appreciated
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
Hi, fellow sleuths. New to the whole process and this is my first issue. Super excited to be a part of the mystery! I look forward to working with you all. I had a question about the redaction and then saw the note at the top and I couldn't delete this post, so it's a message of greeting instead.
DCtravels
Posted 6 months ago
Welcome to the adventure, DCtravels!
Boneduster- your suspicions about the order of the crossword message are correct.
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
DRAT! I went to The Vault and I typed in the password "petroglyph" but it said it was wrong and kicked me out! Is it supposed to be in all caps or something? Will I ever get another chance?
Alexander Thorn
Posted 6 months ago
Alexander, I may be incorrect, but it is my supposition that the password you discovered probably is for something else. Perhaps if you had access to a username? Good luck!
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Alexander, don't fear! The Vault resets itself every 24 hours, so you will have another chance. I would advise you, though, that all the codes for the Vault (or, rather, the clues that point to the codes) are to be found in the Vol. 1 issues of C&C.
Eleanor, aka "The Bardess"
Posted 6 months ago
Also, the crossword puzzle solution mentioned something about a handbook. What did it mean by that?
Alexander Thorn
Posted 6 months ago
The handbook was included in the membership kits that are available for purchase in October.
Eleanor, aka "The Bardess"
Posted 6 months ago
Greetings fellow MPC members.
While out for my morning run, I believe I hit on the solution to the four images and what they have in common. I believe the answer to be Spurs. Allow me to elaborate:
Basketball: It is clearly marked "San Antonio" which of course is home to the Spurs.
Lance Armstrong: He clearly has the ability to ride fast; Spur, when used as a verb, can mean to "ride quickly".
Bird: Spur can be used to describe part of the leg of certain types of birds.
Lightning: A lightning spur is a device similar to a lightning rod, used to dissipate lightning strikes.
It is my belief that this is the commonality between the four images. Any other thoughts?
The Maestro
Posted 5 months ago
Hello all, I am a new member and am catching up. I am trying to solve the puzzles in this issue, and am stuck on several puzzles. First, the Hands of Time puzzle. I have found the numbers in the margin, but am stuck trying to figure out what to do with them. I checked the references to previous issues, but couldn't actually find anything there that helped. Secondly, the graph paper with X marks on it... I see that each row has but a single X, but that's as far as i've gotten'. And finally, thecipher text that arrived as a curio. Without the disk, is it possible to solve the code? Thanks to someone earlier who posted the cipher text.` Thanks! I look forward to any thoughts or help.
Talking Dust
Posted 3 months ago
Welcome Talking Dust! Though it would be my pleasure to help you with all three of your questions, I am afraid I am still working on two of them myself. I can advise you to count the number of rows/lines in the X grid. I do not know what to do from there. Next I will advise you to check the Wiki for a look at the wooden disk. That will tell you what is written on one side. The comments in this thread (one in particular) may help you figure out how the other side is relevant.
JandJ
Posted 2 months ago
For anyone still struggling with the puzzles, I would encourage you to pop into the chatroom. The particular puzzles mentioned here (especially the "Hands of Time") are much easier discussed in real time, plus we have the advantage of being able to speak a bit more plainly. Instructions for accessing the chatroom can be found on the front page of the wiki: curios-and-conundrums.wikia.com/wiki/Curios_and_Conundrums_Wiki
Eleanor, aka "The Bardess"
Posted 2 months ago
After waking up this morning in a fit of inspiration, I think I may have worked out the secret name of Vol. 2 of the quarterly. In fact, I have a prediction about the name of this year's final issue, which has not yet been revealed. Has anyone else produced any guesses on this yet? Contact me if you're curious: davidDOTfunderburkATearthlinkDOTnet
Old Possum
Posted 2 months ago
I'm stuck on the number pairs. I put them into a 20x20 grid but now what? I don't see how that helps. I'm missing something. I also don't know how to decode the paper around the F E coin. I see that article about the man in the velvet bag and Louis XIV cipher but I can't make a translation from my interneting skills. And also, what's up with the peas? So many things I am missing. Any hints are appreciated!
CakeNinja
Posted about 1 month ago
Hints, in order of your questions:
1: You needn't make your own grid. One has been supplied for you.
2: It is encoded using a cipher that a certain someone has used previously when contacting us.
3: The peas label, unless I have missed something, is only to add flavor to its associated article. That article does have a puzzle more-or-less associated with it, though.
Mr. N.W. Rifflesby
Posted about 1 month ago
Thank you! I'm still trying to figure out what the grid means or where I go from there. I hope I'm all caught up by the time the next one comes out... just around the corner! Seems like there are many new comers that will be in on the next set of mysteries.
CakeNinja
Posted about 1 month ago
As was recorded elsewhere, the curios included with this issue included a business card for a Consulting Occultist, A label to a can of peas, a small piece of paper with a cipher wrapped around a wooden disk with the initials of F.E. on one side, and a Zeppelin ticket that belongs to Dr. Klaus Henrich.
This issue is considerably larger than those that preceded it, so there is a lot to read, study, and solve. Happy sleuthing, everyone!
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
It appears I have been stumped by the confounded crossword puzzle. I'm sure I'm not the first, nor will I be the last. The clues I'm stuck on are as follows:
Across: 6, 12, 17, 22, 25, 32, 36 Down: 4, 5, 10, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 24, 26, 34
With my luck, I am sure that now that I have sought out assistance, the answers will become clear to me.
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Speaking of the crossword, probably me missing the obvious but what do the numbers in brackets mean after the clues?
Ohforf
Posted 6 months ago
Ohforf, It is my understanding that the answers to the crossword will form a secret message when rearranged in the order specified by the numbers in parentheses. In other words, (1) is the first word in the message, (2) is the second word in the message, etc. This is my first issue, so perhaps a more seasoned sleuther might have more information for you, but that is the nature of the crossword that I have gathered from lurking in the Sitting Room...
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Maestro has the right of it.
Kittendumpling
Posted 6 months ago
I also received the same items as put forth by Chelsea, M.C. ()could it be that the letter on the disk are from the periodic table?()
Ghared Corwall
Posted 6 months ago
A sound guess, Ghared, but I'm afraid in this case a little off the mark. A good starting place might be to identify what type of cipher one is dealing with in regards to the wooden disc and the scrap of text wrapped around it. Caesar? Substitution? Vigenere? Numbers? One time pad? The choices are, thankfully, limited...
I wish I could shed more light on the problem, but...
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Thanks Chelsea I haven't really dove into the issue yet just got it yesterday, I was just going on the quick look at the issue and was thinking it might be tide to the add about pure white lead but will defiantly dive deeper tonight!
Ghared Corwall
Posted 6 months ago
I feel that 17 across is NUMBER, 10 down is PUZZLE, and 12 across is USEFUL.
Aerienelle
Posted 6 months ago
Why is there no 10 or 33 across?
Aerienelle
Posted 6 months ago
Redactions!
There simply is no 10 or 33 across.
For some of the other clues, 6A might be what one would hear yelled while standing in a queue. 5D is one of the most common words in the English language, as well as in the crosswords.
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
The cipher used may be relatrd to he Great Cupher as used by Louis XIV in the article of the man in the iron mask, however that one used numbers for letter pairings.
Aerienelle
Posted 6 months ago
*related. Typographical errors are common when one uses a phone's keyboard.
Aerienelle
Posted 6 months ago
I hope this does not count as spoilers, but I for one had difficulties reading the encrypted wrapper so as a service to others, I have transcribed the uncoded text for research purposes.
Amcktvir,
Nlogjcolfvejzjfzhmeeypywfqicnernnxhvsgrpuxifsxoijgoxsmsvfzixjreijgygmirnminptysvjsnv.dsuiqmfvnwielveryhaelir.zyvivixonfvnptyryzwbrsh, blyleunhnfypijyin, jtlecqfeeyaajmioemmshziskksrkmitizxh.zyaajs'xujblounhhzrmn, zryskfwslwiyfz.mtnfwtyjwotnitptjzfxmmfx.xhvdlamjfevslueymnxzwffwhetfhej, frdvswuinrgkmetetsnvjpsvlitjhpojj.colwlujgenulsttqssv.sswptyhraiajbilc.
Wyn, mngtfwma.izrtfylewfvtyjwtttvnvwwowylevfvty.ylezwverhlijairplvery, fuknxijsstzsjienxe.njroctrgvwlamjxhvwisfzvcvxxogwstvhxyfz, aikmqeyfzielkoejynujvgitynu, yletzvaktvhramnxmmdujrhzrweckewrdaikmsukftpfnrtzskaejaaiymsrssrgwsfvxwoi.fxlvfwtkmicfqpetymoenwsrkifitqtyjq.tyfxijtrekmmnxyletzvaktvijlsoufx.
Innplxjxieysutmaikmcolfwsftrajngae.dsuujweiaitfpronylekwyty.nnujylogjxhvdhoe'yjieiqewnvsk.
Blakylepmevvisnvysujbmlcsstxtyn-rainxjh.a.d.
The Cap'n, W.F.J.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Oh. My goodness. I apologize. I could have sworn I redacted that. How embarrassing.
Its like my friend ATticus BASHir would say, "R hxivdvw gszg fk, wrwm'g R?"
The Cap'n, W.F.J.C.
Posted 6 months ago
My dear Chelsea, M.C. Yet again you have illuminated me and shed light upon another mystery involving the F.E. button.
Ghared Corwall
Posted 6 months ago
Ahh! A cypher broken! now is the time for good Scotch and a Cigar! I have know Fear and it has led the way!
Ghared Corwall
Posted 6 months ago
Has anyone made progress on figuring out the numbers down the inside margins of several pages? I find myself inexplicably stumped by them...
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Chelsea, note the highest number on either side of the colon is twenty. Look for something that matches 20 x 20. :-)
enaxor
Posted 6 months ago
Bless you.
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
If anyone has pointers on 36 Across, 26 down and 34 down, I'm interested.
The Cap'n, W.F.J.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Chelsea -- now that the solution presents itself, it is worth noting that those seemingly random words were the first to point the way. I wonder if you take my (or their) meaning, and I look forward to discussing the newly deciphered riddle.
Blackbird
Posted 6 months ago
Captain- for 26D, it could be both the act of writing down, as well as the written paper itself. for 34D, I would suggest a basic online search from which you should be able to narrow down the array of producers.
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Thank you all I would be so lost and have had no idea where to start with out some direction.
Alan G
Posted 6 months ago
No worries, Alan!
It is a lot to take in, especially for those who have just started the adventure with Volume 2, and maybe the catch-up kit (highly recommended). The story is constantly growing, evolving, and I suspect will continue to do so going forward. Welcome to the team!
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Has anyone else discovered The Hands Of Time puzzle? Any thoughts or comments are much appreciated.
Enigma
Posted 6 months ago
You may find that it bears a striking resemblance, both in location and format, to the Bound Man puzzle of the previous issue.... A similar approach might serve you well...
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Unfortunately, I do not have that issue, as I have not yet ordered my catch-up kit. This is my first issue of C&C. Is there a discussion somewhere that might be able to provide a starting point or some clues?
Enigma
Posted 6 months ago
Good evening friends, We have solved most of the crossword, however we seem to stuck on 15, 22, and 36 A and 5, 13, 16, 21, 23, and 24 D. any advice?
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
I was also curious about the H of T. A clue as to how to begin would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Having finally had the time tonight to pour over the various mysteries, I solved the paired numbers although it seems more a general statement about MPC than a specific clue. I've also dashed through the dotting of my I's, but haven't figured out how to use that clue yet. And finished about 3/4 of the crossword.
Does completing the Word Search actually help with the mysteries, or is it just used for other things?
Black Cavalier
Posted 6 months ago
For those seeking clues to unravel the secrets of the hands of time, I would suggest perusing the thread for the previous issue, entitled "The Venerable Store of Nell". Just to make it extra simple, it can be found here: www.mysteriouspackage.com/products/curios-and-conundrums/sitting_room/85
Black Cavalier- I find it is best to solve whatever can be solved. It can often prove helpful in unexpected ways.
Boneduster- Have you made progress on the Crossword? I believe there are several clues scattered throughout this and other threads, but I am happy to provide more, if needed.
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Alas, I have brushed up on the Bound Man, and I am as perplexed as ever... I think I may be on to something regarding The Hands of Time, but perhaps someone could message me offlist so that I may see if I am on the right path? My email is mtjandt@gmail.com
Thanks for the assistance.
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Those who are still struggling with the Hands of Time puzzle may find the postcard referenced in this thread to be of some use: www.mysteriouspackage.com/products/curios-and-conundrums/sitting_room/60
Eleanor, aka "The Bardess"
Posted 6 months ago
Said postcard is discussed in more detail here: www.mysteriouspackage.com/products/curios-and-conundrums/sitting_room/18
Eleanor, aka "The Bardess"
Posted 6 months ago
Good evening again, it seems the big one I am stuck on is 15A. If I had that, the rest should HOPEFULLY fall into place haha
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
Also there is some inner debate about 5D. I believe it may may be thell as it is a male pronoun with extra T. any thoughts?
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
Can anyone advise me as to where to find the back tick character on an iPad?
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
Boneduster, for 15A, a homophobe is a word that sounds the same but is spelled differently. The 2 words referenced in the clue are very common and in more recent times, their spelling is frequently switched. Also, there's a third very common word that is another homophone of the 1st two.
For 5 D, see my comment on the group chat thread.
Black Cavalier
Posted 6 months ago
Boneduster, the answer to 15A is not ours to share.
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
Lady S, thank you, after I figured it out a bunch just fell into place. 4 more to go!
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
Black Cavalier- thank you for clarifying 5D. I too was stumped by that one.
I feel I am close to solving the crossword, but the answers for 16D, 18D, 20D, 23D, 24D, as well as 22A, 32A, and 36A continue to elude me. Any clues?
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Maestro, The beginning of the phrase in reference to newspapers that ends in READ ALL ABOUT IT! should help
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
Sorry Maestro, in reference to 22A
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
Brethren,
I am struggling with 36A - any hints available to me?
As ever, yours,
mskimie
Posted 6 months ago
Dear mskimie, think about what other word could replace addition in the context of what the clue is saying, then 'question' the second part of the clue.
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
Dear Maestro, for 24D, think about things people do with databases.
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
I think that the confusion with 5D is that it is only three letters and not five.
Enigma
Posted 6 months ago
I've come up with a crazy connection between the 4 pictures in the latest issue.
San Antonio Spurs basketball in Texas
Lance Armstrong was born in Plano Texas
The bird is probably a Rhea and there is a town called Rhea in Texas
Austin texas has a woman's basketball called the Texas Storm
So in a real stretch, could the commonality be Texas?
Black Cavalier
Posted 6 months ago
Black Cavalier, that's a really interesting thought.
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
Here's another, possibly more plausible, but less complete one for the pictures.
The article.about the Greek drinking game compares it to basketball. The 1st picture is a basket ball. I haven't figured out the San Antonio reference.
Not sure on lance Armstrong, but Hercules could be considered to be arm-strong and would have certainly been the person most likely to be on steroids in classic Greece.
Assuming again that the bird is a Rhea, the Titan Rhea was Zeus' mother and a based on Virgil's Aeneid a different Rhea had a son Aventinus with Hercules.
Zeus is the God of storms and Hercules' father.
So the commonality could be Greece, Greek mythology or specifically Hercules. OTOH, Rhea was also the name of the mother of Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, and Jupiter is the Roman God of Lightning. So it might be Rome or roman mythology too.
Black Cavalier
Posted 6 months ago
I cannot for the life of me unravel 36A. The only things I can come up with don't make sense in the context of the underlying message, nor can I actually connect it to women, as the clue requires. Lady Samurai's hint just led me to the same answer I had already considered, which must mean I am surely not understanding you correctly.
Black Cavalier, Hercules/Herakles was the same path I was pondering for that puzzle. Although, I do like your Texas solution!
As for the number-pair puzzle, to me it sounds like they are just telling us where to find the vault on this website.
Elim Horton
Posted 6 months ago
36A seems to be proving quite difficult for many of us. If it helps, the first part of the clue is an anagram for "board," while the second part is what one might call the actors in a play.
Eleanor, aka "The Bardess"
Posted 6 months ago
Ah! Thank you!
Elim Horton
Posted 6 months ago
Friends, I am stuck only on 16 and 21 down. any clues discovered?
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
Hi Boneduster. For 16D, you could consult this from the MPC for more information on how to solve codes. For 21D, I think they actually mean REMOVE two S's. What letters could the way out have in common with a state of being?
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
Also for 16D... it's only eight letters long, not ten as it looks... the 9th space is unused
Elim Horton
Posted 6 months ago
Lady Samurai,
Is the answer for 16D geometric in nature? Or am I off track again?
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
This is a bit of a #humblebrag, but I think that I may have solved the crossword finally! (With lots of help from all of you; many thanks). Only one answer I'm not entirely sure of - the word fits, but I don't understand the context as of yet.
Now to move on to the paired numbers - If only I could track down the correct edition of the cipher document
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Success! Thank you Eleanor! Your clue helped me finally solve 36A, and complete crossword.
Enigma
Posted 6 months ago
Hello Maestro. that's a little off track. Think about what the words mean separately. It helped me when I looked up the translation in Google translation svcs. Good luck!
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
I believe I have finally sorted the cross word and the number pairs. Any suggestions on what to tackle next?
Professor Cominius Oberon Balt
Posted 6 months ago
Greetings Professor. I am PEASed to make your acquaintance. I would love to help you, but I must DASH out and replenish my supply of snowcaps and DOTS. Good luck on your endeavors.
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
I still need help on 6A, 32A, 21D, and 26D. The secret message that I have so far is The vault door can now be accessed a - has been hidden extra with the curators prize there - a secret - - the behind number broadcast to solve one puzzle your handsoff may prove useful. I REALLY feel like I may have gotten a few of the words wrong. Which ones were they?
Also, for the morse code puzzle I got H P Q F W O R T E P S I U R O G E S N P E 4 Like with the last one, I feel like I did something wrong.
Also, first time posting on any of these boards. Sorry if I broke any rules.
Alexander Thorn
Posted 6 months ago
Good show, Mr Thorn!! But...what would you shout to the first person in line? And I beleive Liber pertains to book.... Don't be afraid to break "rules" the chaps here are quite accommodating.
Lord Henry Bolton
Posted 6 months ago
And as for the Morse, try translating it the other direction... That should do the trick!
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
Alex, Pertaining the morse code, perhaps you are reading it upside down? The letters should create a rather straight forward message, no decoding necessary.
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Maestro, can you give me a hint on what to do with the peas label? I seem to be stuck. Thanks!
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
I completed the crossword fairly quickly, but I am still struggling with the number pairs. Any additional hints would be appreciated.
Portia Ashman
Posted 6 months ago
Hello Alexander. For 32A, the woman in the clue may send you an angry one of these if you count her candles and tell.
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
Lady Samurai,
I have not found anything special on the actual label, however, if you find the related story in the C&C, I think you will be a little less puzzled.
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Thanks Maestro, that will be my priority after work tonight!
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
Just wondering... we have a username and a password, but do we have the location for those yet?
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Maestro, I was going to ask the same question. I haven't found the location yet.
Lady Samurai
Posted 6 months ago
I am having a bit of trouble finding The secret message in the crossword. Should I use the numbers next to the clues? A tap in the right direction would be most appreciated
Boneduster
Posted 6 months ago
Hi, fellow sleuths. New to the whole process and this is my first issue. Super excited to be a part of the mystery! I look forward to working with you all. I had a question about the redaction and then saw the note at the top and I couldn't delete this post, so it's a message of greeting instead.
DCtravels
Posted 6 months ago
Welcome to the adventure, DCtravels!
Boneduster- your suspicions about the order of the crossword message are correct.
Chelsea, M.C.
Posted 6 months ago
DRAT! I went to The Vault and I typed in the password "petroglyph" but it said it was wrong and kicked me out! Is it supposed to be in all caps or something? Will I ever get another chance?
Alexander Thorn
Posted 6 months ago
Alexander, I may be incorrect, but it is my supposition that the password you discovered probably is for something else. Perhaps if you had access to a username? Good luck!
The Maestro
Posted 6 months ago
Alexander, don't fear! The Vault resets itself every 24 hours, so you will have another chance. I would advise you, though, that all the codes for the Vault (or, rather, the clues that point to the codes) are to be found in the Vol. 1 issues of C&C.
Eleanor, aka "The Bardess"
Posted 6 months ago
Also, the crossword puzzle solution mentioned something about a handbook. What did it mean by that?
Alexander Thorn
Posted 6 months ago
The handbook was included in the membership kits that are available for purchase in October.
Eleanor, aka "The Bardess"
Posted 6 months ago
Greetings fellow MPC members.
While out for my morning run, I believe I hit on the solution to the four images and what they have in common. I believe the answer to be Spurs. Allow me to elaborate:
Basketball: It is clearly marked "San Antonio" which of course is home to the Spurs.
Lance Armstrong: He clearly has the ability to ride fast; Spur, when used as a verb, can mean to "ride quickly".
Bird: Spur can be used to describe part of the leg of certain types of birds.
Lightning: A lightning spur is a device similar to a lightning rod, used to dissipate lightning strikes.
It is my belief that this is the commonality between the four images. Any other thoughts?
The Maestro
Posted 5 months ago
Hello all, I am a new member and am catching up. I am trying to solve the puzzles in this issue, and am stuck on several puzzles. First, the Hands of Time puzzle. I have found the numbers in the margin, but am stuck trying to figure out what to do with them. I checked the references to previous issues, but couldn't actually find anything there that helped. Secondly, the graph paper with X marks on it... I see that each row has but a single X, but that's as far as i've gotten'. And finally, thecipher text that arrived as a curio. Without the disk, is it possible to solve the code? Thanks to someone earlier who posted the cipher text.` Thanks! I look forward to any thoughts or help.
Talking Dust
Posted 3 months ago
Welcome Talking Dust! Though it would be my pleasure to help you with all three of your questions, I am afraid I am still working on two of them myself. I can advise you to count the number of rows/lines in the X grid. I do not know what to do from there. Next I will advise you to check the Wiki for a look at the wooden disk. That will tell you what is written on one side. The comments in this thread (one in particular) may help you figure out how the other side is relevant.
JandJ
Posted 2 months ago
For anyone still struggling with the puzzles, I would encourage you to pop into the chatroom. The particular puzzles mentioned here (especially the "Hands of Time") are much easier discussed in real time, plus we have the advantage of being able to speak a bit more plainly. Instructions for accessing the chatroom can be found on the front page of the wiki: curios-and-conundrums.wikia.com/wiki/Curios_and_Conundrums_Wiki
Eleanor, aka "The Bardess"
Posted 2 months ago
After waking up this morning in a fit of inspiration, I think I may have worked out the secret name of Vol. 2 of the quarterly. In fact, I have a prediction about the name of this year's final issue, which has not yet been revealed. Has anyone else produced any guesses on this yet? Contact me if you're curious: davidDOTfunderburkATearthlinkDOTnet
Old Possum
Posted 2 months ago
I'm stuck on the number pairs. I put them into a 20x20 grid but now what? I don't see how that helps. I'm missing something. I also don't know how to decode the paper around the F E coin. I see that article about the man in the velvet bag and Louis XIV cipher but I can't make a translation from my interneting skills. And also, what's up with the peas? So many things I am missing. Any hints are appreciated!
CakeNinja
Posted about 1 month ago
Hints, in order of your questions:
1: You needn't make your own grid. One has been supplied for you.
2: It is encoded using a cipher that a certain someone has used previously when contacting us.
3: The peas label, unless I have missed something, is only to add flavor to its associated article. That article does have a puzzle more-or-less associated with it, though.
Mr. N.W. Rifflesby
Posted about 1 month ago
Thank you! I'm still trying to figure out what the grid means or where I go from there. I hope I'm all caught up by the time the next one comes out... just around the corner! Seems like there are many new comers that will be in on the next set of mysteries.
CakeNinja
Posted about 1 month ago