A lot of talk on the forums is spent discussing the learning curve, and how intimidating it is for a new player. Maybe if there was a method for a Guild Master to be selected from the player base for each class to act as a mentor to the new class members.
Say for instance at character creation a player is asked "Would you like to become someones pupil in your class, so they can teach you how to survive?"
If they answer yes (as one can assume most new players would), a note is sent to the chosen guild master instructing them to interact with the new player.
Personally I'm all about seeing the numbers grow. I would gladly give up some of my playtime to show new people the ropes, and show them some good RPing in the process. It would be fun and the MUD would benefit.
I understand that a lot of people have very limited playtime, so of course this can't work for everyone. But on the same note, there are some who do have the time to offer, and I bet some of those same people are also very interested in seeing larger numbers in their who list.
I for one would volunteer immediately if something like this were allowed.
Only concern that arises is a good guild master having an evil pupil, but maybe the characters could be made neutral and are just an adventurer with the same skills as the class and neutral, nobody above level 30 should need a mentor anymore, but they could always be available for questions via note or questions in-game.
I think the heralds are supposed to do some teaching to those who enter the academy, so it's kinda already there. Interesting concept though. 
Interesting. Though I'd say a good pupil can only be with a good master, neutral with neutal and evil with evil. Each relationship can be rp'd in different ways. Any more ideas on this?
I agree with you tassin, I only suggested the neutral idea because numbers are an issue, with 17 or so classes.. more than half having 3 alignment options that ends up being a ton of masters, sure later on with sufficient growth that is the most ideal method
Edit: Also those newer to RPing would benefit greatly as a mentor could set a basis for roleplaying thier alignment, so people don't make mistakes
Good point on the academy.. maybe at character creation an option to join the academy? or people are forced into it at first, and can leave it whenever they see fit? So by default new people would have it at their disposal without having to hear about it or find it in Rheydin. Don't always see a Herald on, but maybe a queue where they can see past questions, so they can be answered via note? (I have no idea how the academy or Herald functions in this regard, or whether or not something like this exists already within.)
Well. I kind of disagree. An evil char does not HAVE to be vile, dark, thieving underhanded and dastardly. You CAN just exist as an evil char and make a living through less than honorable means.
I see no reason why a goodie invoker could not take on an evil apprentice. They are not hunting, they are not traveling, they are preserving their art. Ensuring that the knowledge they possess will make it to a new generation. I mean goodie guildmasters in val will teach evil characters right?
That is true, when it comes to guilds you have all varieties. So considering the player who is an acting Guild Master for the new players of the guild, it would be understandable that they would offer help to all walks of life.
Does that Hero system still exist? I seem to remember it once upon a login. Maybe that can just be resurrected...even though I seem to remember there were issues with it.
Pretty sure thats what Heros do.
Well. I kind of disagree. An evil char does not HAVE to be vile, dark, thieving underhanded and dastardly. You CAN just exist as an evil char and make a living through less than honorable means.
I see no reason why a goodie invoker could not take on an evil apprentice. They are not hunting, they are not traveling, they are preserving their art. Ensuring that the knowledge they possess will make it to a new generation. I mean goodie guildmasters in val will teach evil characters right?
When basing your analogy on mobs it makes sense but we're talking about players here. If this were allowed you'd have contrasting rp between learner and master and all your actions would befall upon an easily impressionable newbie of opposite align. Not a very good idea in my opinion.