While we're hoping the server will return, here is a small challenge game to pass the time.
This is basically a one player version of the weakest link game, with some modifications. You have much fewer turns per level, and instead of a random character, I hand-picked one that shouldn't favour any particular playing style too much.
Rules:
Load the save provided here. Rename the character and enter the ID. In the ID, you may never take the up stairs for any reason. You may spend no more than 500 turns on any level. If you reach SIL, you have an unlimited time to get the Sceptre, but may not leave the level. No abuse of game bugs is allowed.
Ranking:
Getting the sceptre is the top achievement. If more than one player can achieve this, then the number of turns used (counting from the start of the game) is used as a tie-breaker. Otherwise, players are ranked by the dungeon level reached. If there is a tie, then the turn count when arriving on that particular level decides the order. Fewer turns is of course better in both cases.
Reporting:
Keep record of the turn count when entering each level. Use the turn count displayed after descending, i.e. 13 for level 1. This will help in making sure you don't break the 500 turn limit and also in determining the ranking. You are encouraged to report anything of note that happens during the game, to make the reports more interesting to read. At the very least, you should tell how you died or ran out of turns. IMO, we can keep both reports and general discussion in this one thread.
Deadline:
Exactly two weeks from the time of this post.
The character:
A male hurthling paladin born in the month of book. Starting talents are alert and hardy.