May 2007

Just as in the last meeting, the High Council once again met in secret. This time the scene was in the cozy basement of the Jhelom Library. Despite the clandestine nature of the meeting, many citizens were able to attend.

Here, then, are the headlines for this meeting of the High Council:

Britannian Armed Forces clash with Empire of Armageddon at Moonglow

Grand Marshall Oona provided a report of the Empire's activities in Moonglow. The enemy's advance had been stopped, and Oona projected Britannian victory within a season.

Minister of Virtue Appointed

In the abscence of other applicants for the position and the strong need to have the seat filled, it was decided at the last council meeting that should there be no further applicants that the Ministerial positions should be appointed by confirmation from the council.

Lord DaKaren, the applicant for the Minister of Virtue was in attendance, so it was put forth to confirm his appointment.

Princess Piper of Yew voted in favor.
Malag-Aste, temporary adjutant for Newcastle voted in favor.

DaKaren took the oath of office then and there, as witnessed by those in attendance.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs position is still open, as its applicant, Uzeraan, was not in attendance. Applications for the position will still be accepted.

Kazola's Tavern Threatened

The shadowlord Nosfentor, having previously kidnapped Kazola and shaved her bald as part of a nefarious ritual dared to patronize Kazola's tavern during its regular hours of operation. Nosfentor was greeted with hostility and forced to leave.. but not before making an omious threat.

The shadowlord vowed to return in a week and burn the tavern to the ground!

Kazola stood before the council and requested Britannian aid, which was easily granted by the Grand Marshall.

Tanda and Kimber to open establishment

Tanda was in attendance to let everyone know about a new establishment called "The Grotto" which would open at 8 PM on June 2. No information was given as to the location of "The Grotto" but keep an eye on the Calendar for more details.

Civic Center Reclaimed

Though not a part of the meeting, The council was alerted that Chancellor Ra'Dian Fl'Gith had returned to the Civic Center. The group travelled en masse to the now partially-damaged structure to find what appeared to be the chancellor taunting a single Viaxus Drow.

The apparition which looked like the Chancellor stated that he had killed all the drow, and that the Civic Center had now been reclaimed.. though it is unclear if this meant he killed all the drow in the structure, or throughout Britannia.

Grand Marshall Oona sent scouting parties throughout Britannia, but no Drow were found. Britannian forces took the opportunity to reclaim their defensive positions in formerly disputed territories.

As of this writing, the drow have not resurfaced.

High Council returns to Civic Center

The next meeting will be held as usual in its rightful place, the Jerred Ghyss Civic Center in Compassion Grove.

from Torin Gorahd:

The High Council of Britannia met in secret this evening, unaware that the situation in the High Council Civic Center -- overrun by drow just a half year before -- had taken an interesting twist. Word reached the High Council that the drow had yet to begin their insulting meeting headed by the "Baroness" "Shadowlord" Nosfentor, but few in the Council were ready to believe it more than a trap.

Then word reached the Council that some sort of confrontation was going on between a shrouded figure and one of the Viaxus drow. The chamber was overrun with the Council and Britannian Armed Forces, ready to strike should any resistance or trap be sprung. Instead, they found a hooded figure weilding a scythe of strange material warning the last drow to surrender.

The drow was confused, stating at first that he would not surrender, and seemed confused as to where the drow went. The shrouded figured claimed that he had killed them each, one by one. The drow made a swift escape, and the figure, who some believe may have been the Chancellor himself, turned to speak, seemingly laughing about his own noncorporeal state. It is said he even ran his own hand through himself.

In what is described as a scream of anguish, the figure disappeared mid sentence.

None know what truly transpired, but it is said that many blood trails and splashes were found on the upper levels of the Civic Center.

The procedures for the High Council meeting will be the same as last week. Please contact your representative for the location of the meeting.

It has been far too long since I have updated the community on the shenanigans of M, I apologize. The Library of Sosaria has been usurping a great deal of my time recently...

Last month, during Lady Silverbrook's Virtue Poetry Contest, M dognapped Lilandra's faithful companion Skattles as the awards were being distributed…

Skattles had been wandering the Magincia Library & Museum while the poems were being read, barking and sniffing at various things. She suddenly froze, awash in tiny sparkling lights, before a great pillar of smoke enveloped her. As the smoke dissipated, all that was left was a yellow crystal on the bricks where she once stood. Before anyone could react, the crystal disappeared and was replaces by a small red book. Lilandra, tailor of Newcastle, was so distraught that she had to be ushered away to compose herself.

The book, titled Injustice, reads as follows:

“From the human came the fey,
see the thief plain as day.
Whilst Justice looks the other way,
she takes your things and has her say.
From the pack she'll nab the stray,
locked in crystal will it stay.
With this poem time's delay,
baiting you has become cliché.

-M.”

As usual, the immediate meaning of the poem was a quandary; however, one can assume that M is taunting as usual. This time, it appears she is taunting the Justicar and the Royal Britannian Kilted Police who are charged with apprehending her. The stray presumably refers to Skattles, and the crystal bit must refer to the yellow crystal that was briefly seen. Why M would take the dog is a mystery, and the method of capture is completely unfamiliar.

Justicar Woodrow Call arrived on the scene and took statements from those still present, vowing to “to capture M, and bring the thief to justice.”

When I caught up with Lilandra, she was collected enough to make a plea for Skattles return, “Please, please, anyone who has seen my baby, save her! I miss her so much!” Unfortunately, she began to cry and quickly became inconsolable. M’s probable goal of causing emotional distress was achieved.

Weeks later, when the EoA Occupation began, Velturus Viaxus placed a sword of conquest in the High Council chamber in the Civic Center. The sword symbolized the Empire’s rule over the lands of Britannia and her peoples. Until last night that is…

The sword was discovered missing by the Empire’s Britannian regent, Baroness Nosfentor. In its place sat a blood red book, contents written in drow, another taunt from M.

Entitled ‘Ultrinnan Viaxus E'trit,’ or ‘Conquering Viaxus Filth’ in Common, the book reads as follows:

‘Bel'la dos whol l' sokoya killian, ol orn lor bwael wun ussta uln'hyrr. Dos ph' fridj 'zil waela xuil dosst yulun 'zil l' rivven! Xun naut talinth dos ph' sreen'aur dal uns'aa. L' charnaggen dal vel'bolen Usstan doer orn'la mylthar tangis' dosst olath xukuthen. Uss tangi, ulnin, Che'el d'Orbb orn zhaun ussta nar'hethi! Goros t'yin, tesso dosst nei ulu ser ilta Lloth ssinssriggin el'lar e'trit doeb d' ussta thac'zilen!

-M.’

Common Translation:

‘Thank you for the pretty sword, it will look good in my lair. You are just as foolish with your prizes as the humans! Do not think you are safe from me. The depths from which I come would devour even your dark hearts. One day, soon, Che'el d'Orbb will know my vengeance! Till then, tell your empress to keep her Lloth loving house filth out of my lands!

-M.’

M’s penchant to taunt her victims will undoubtedly earn her no friends amongst the Empire or its allies. It is interesting to note that the word ‘el’lar,’ meaning non-noble house, is used as a pejorative in this context due to the Viaxus using ‘qu'ellar,’ or noble house, in their title. In essence, she called them “Lloth loving peasant filth…”

When reached for comment, the Baroness was livid at having her authority challenged in such a manner. Grinning maliciously, she coldly stated, “I guess this means we go house to house burning till we find the sword, what a shame....”

The response from the Empress of the Second Empire of Armageddon was quite shocking to this reporter, “Issue a Warrant to have her detained so that she can be properly rewarded for her successful venture in stealing the sword, and slapped for insulting Lloth by a Priestess." Where calls for retribution were expected, Velturus Viaxus only said wryly, “M the Thief a Britannian Patriot... Who would have guessed…”

From a secret location, Acting Chancellor Lionel Alazraham sent his view of the theft via courier, “I don't condone theft of property, but in this instance I must say that I am not particularly angered."

News of the theft seemed to greatly amuse patrons at Kazola’s Treetop Keg and Winery. A few questioned the Occupation government’s ability to lead, while others outright cheered M’s deed. Over a tall glass of cider, local craftswomen Dot Warner commented, “Maybe this M is turning over a new leaf? It’s happened before…”

While it is highly doubtful that M’s theft was altruistic, or even patriotic, it has definitely had an interesting impact on the Occupation. An impact that is undoubtedly far from fully realized.

Abducted dogs and stolen swords, what is M’s motivation? Who IS M? If anyone has any information on M, please contact the RBKP or your ‘friendly’ drow warrior…

From the office of the Grand Marshall:

In order to ensure fairness and accountability within our own ranks, and to promote good faith with our neighbors I am issuing the following orders.

Effective immediately, all Britannian Armed Forces are required to abide by new Rules of Engagement as follows:

1. You will not loot the enemy for any reason.

2. You will not rezkill anyone, or kill anyone who is currently "dead".

3. If you are defeated in battle, you are "dead" for 15 minutes. You will loot your own corpse and leave the battlefield immediately. The 15 minute timer starts when you are killed, not when you are resurrected.

4. While you are "dead" you will not speak. Period. For any reason. You may continue to use your guild/alliance/party chats.

5. You will not Kill on Sight of the enemy. You will first offer him the opportunity to surrender or to flee. If you are attacked first, you may defend yourself.

6. You will treat all players with respect, regardless of if they are the enemy, or an ally.

Though the council was not in usual surroundings, the atmosphere was delightfully productive. The group congregated in secret in the music exhibit at the Vesper Museum.

Among those showing their support for the Council: The Britannian Armed Forces, the Adkins Academy, the Rangers of the North, Kazola's Treetop Keg and Winery, and other notable citizens.

Here are the headlines from the meeting:

Chancellor Fl'Gith presumed dead

His belongings were found on the roof of the Civic Center, but his body was nowhere to be seen.

Lionel Alazraham named Acting Chancellor

In documents left by Fl'Gith "if anything should happen" Lionel Alazraham, grandson of the prestigious Marquis Angus Alazraham was named acting Chancellor for the time being.

Deadline for Ministerial Positions Announced

Only one candidate has applied for each ministerial position. If no others have applied by the next council meeting, their appointment will be made with a yea/nay vote of the council.

Rangers of the North support Britannia

The tight lipped woodlands group vowed to aid Britannia with espionage, tracking, and courier services. Grand Marshall Oona was favorable to the idea.

Kimber seeks to establish a Tavern

The afore-mentioned citizen has been travelling and found her previous establishment in ruin. She now seeks to create another establishment and requests support from private investors.

Mystery surrounds Councilwoman Piper

The crimson-clad Justicar for Yew is said to be imprisoned, or perhaps replaced by a doppelganger. The Yew Militia is investigating.

via Stratics:

This just in:

The Second Empire of Armageddon is reporting that terrorists attacked the capital, Che’el d’Orbb, this evening, causing some damage to the area. Early indications were that the terrorists were of Yew origin, striking the capital in response to the current occupation of Britannia by the Second Empire of Armageddon.

An Imperial Spokesperson denied claims that any attack had occurred on Che’el d’Orbb, responding that lightning had struck the city and caused a few fires. “Those broken arrow shafts are the result of a ceremony that occurs in the City of the Spider on a weekly basis. The bodies you see being carted off were the result of a blacksmithing accident.” Other members of the Imperial Guard were instructed not to speak to the press. Some rumors indicate that the Imperial Force sent out was comprised of Zul’ixiva Viaxus of Qu’ellar d’Viaxus , Zeph’ilia Viaxus of Qu’ellar d’Viaxus , Velturus Viaxus of Qu’ellar d’Viaxus , Z’ortiv Viaxus of Qu’ellar d’Viaxus , Terz’sith Viaxus of Qu’ellar d’Viaxus , Kel’vox Viaxus of Qu’ellar d’Viaxus , Velg’nox Viaxus of Qu’ellar d’Viaxus , Cyrl’Zil Viaxus of Qu’ellar d’Viaxus , and Shane Pain of Chaotic Justice.

The Empire reports that a rebellion quelling force was sent to Yew to put down a small riot, however the Empire refused to comment on the status of that force’s mission.

The attitude in Yew was much different, as citizens of the town were cheerful in celebration. Several Yew citizens acknowledged responsibility for the attack, and reported that the Empire had indeed sent a force to subdue the city. “The Imperial Forces came, but we did what we do best, hid in the fields and then surprised them with our Yew-made arrows.” A spokesperson for the City of Yew said, “With the help of the Royal Knights of Redemption, The Adkin’s Academy, and the Howling Voice, the City of Yew responded to the Imperial Invaders, and forced them into a retreat out of the City.” Yew has declared itself a Free City, along with Newcastle in the impending Imperial Occupation, and recognized these defenders of the city: Leo of the Yew Militia , Paige of the Yew Militia , Dar of the Yew Militia , John of the Yew Militia , Joshua Adkins of the Adkin’s Academy, Ariakas of the Royal Knights of Redemption , Kaz of the Royal Knights of Redemption , and Dev of the Howling Voice Mercenaries.



More information concerning these events can also be found at:

To learn about the High Council of Britannia, a Role-Played Government of Britannia on the Great Lakes Shard, please visit: The High Council of Britannia

To learn about the Second Empire of Armageddon, a Role-Played Empire of Evil and Drow Elves, please visit:The Second Empire of Armageddon

To learn about the Royal Knights of Redemption, an order of Knights that protect Britannia, please visit: The Royal Knights of Redemption

To learn about the Empire of Tokuno, a Role-played Government of the lands of Zento, please visit: The Empire of Tokuno

The Daily Herald is a journal of Role-Play happenings on the Great Lakes Shard, please visit at: The Daily Herald – RP News for Great Lakes

The Yew Militia and the City of Yew are Role-Played Governments of the City of Yew, please visit at: The Yew Militia

from BNN:

The darkness was washed with a sinuous red light. Two braziers at the bottom of the stairway were slowly flickering, their coals an unnatural hue. Avery had always felt the Blood Dungeon had been aptly named, but he could see the hesitation, no, he corrected himself, the revulsion in his mens’ eyes. They’d but barely trespassed into its depths and already the sounds and smells of death and decay were overpowering.

Something shifted in the air to his left and he turned to greet his scout.

“Sir,” the whisper came. Avery nodded. He had sent two of his best trackers ahead. Like everyone else, they went without light, and were to remain undetected. One had already returned, verifying reports of a small shaft extending deeper into the dungeon. It wasn’t large enough for a person, but it carried sounds and voices from below – the very cause of their presence now.

“Did you find anything?”

The man spoke quickly: “Yes, past the main corridor and around the bend, to the right, hidden door set in the wall. Trapped, I believe.”

Avery was evaluating his condition while listening; he needed every one of his people if they were really facing Followers.

“Excellent – what are we looking at?”

“Two imps, both near each other, and a balron beyond the target. No elementals.”

Avery noticed something strange about the scout’s feet and squinted, trying to catch the light. The cloth wrapped around the man’s boots were soaked in something dark and viscuous. A shudder was already racing down his frame before he consciously recognized it as blood.

“Aptly named, indeed.”


Avery didn’t believe in luck, but it had taken them less than an hour to remove the traps set around the hidden door. Their goal was reaching their target undetected, but the very nature of the place made it impossible to cover their tracks. Even the monsters wandering the depths left trails where they tread through the red pools covering the smooth pavers.

Such tracks they followed now, with four sets of distinct footprints leading through twisted passages. All along they had heard an indistinct chanting, a verse or poem that had grown louder as they silently approached.

The scouts froze before turning a bend. Avery moved quickly, hitting the ground softly, and his men followed. Hand signals were exchanged. Long corridor – lighted room – three people. He returned his own: Two columns – slide along the walls – wait for signal.

Now they moved without hesitation. Their dark clothes blended with the stone and they stared across at each other to avoid being blinded by the brightness from the room. Finally they were close enough that the voices carried meaning.


“We are Eored”

“We abitan Geweorc”


Avery motioned them to halt outside the doorway. He peered into the room, a sparse cavern with bricked walls and a table at the center. Three figures, each wearing a black robe of rough wool, were seated around the table chanting their mantra. None were directly facing the doorway, and they seemed intent on their ritual.


“Ac Agiefan Idel”

“Frith Naman Mid Lif”


He raised his hand; a dozen more tensed around hilts and cranks. The table held some object in the center he couldn’t make out. Avery thought he could see the makes of tinkers’ tools scattered around as well, but he’d know soon enough.


“To Sculan Na Ilca Eft”


His hand dropped. No one spoke - they rushed forward in double file and moved along the walls. The moment they were through the door flames were rushing from the robed ones’ hands, but the maelstrom of spellcasting was over as quickly as it had begun.

Avery leaned his own prisoner back, her legs pinned on the ground by his knee and a sword at the woman’s throat. Two crossbows were trained on her, and the scene was repeated for each of the others.

“Secure this room. Bind them and put them in the corner.” He pushed her forward and stood, wiping his hands on his doublet. They felt greasy, he knew they weren’t really, but he wiped them a few more times as discretely as possible while striding over to the table.

The tools turned out to be just that, finely made as they were. A jeweler’s kit was there as well, and a few scattered pieces of blackrock. Was it the book they’d been so intent on? He sat down and began paging through it. Whatever it was written in was foreign to him, but there were a few diagrams and a list of names at the end. He tapped one of the pictures, a wand, considering it.

“Sir!” a man shouted it so unexpectedly that he reflexively snapped the book shut.

“Sir! The prisoners!” Avery was already halfway across the room. He kneeled in front of the woman he’d captured only minutes earlier. Her mouth was open, her tongue rolled back, purple and black.

“Poison.” Curses filled the air, “They’re dead."

A soft voice intoned, “We are nothing, and to nothing we shall return.”

Crossbows swung around to bear on the young soldier standing on the far side of the room. Avery turned slowly, he suddenly felt tired, weighed down, dread and anger forming a cold fire deep in his stomach.

The soldier looked on serenely, watching Avery as he rose. Something was clutched in his hand. A wand? He tried to remember his name, one of the younger boys, came from Luna, or was it Trinsic? City of Paladins. Didn’t matter. Avery met his gaze.

“You can’t escape, Brian.” He tucked the book into his pocket.

“Neither can you.”

A moment passed. Another.

One of his men shifted uncertainly.

Brian’s lips parted and his eyes darted towards his hand. Sudden recognition shot through Avery’s eyes.

“Fire!” His command reverberated with a symphony of tightly wound springs being loosed in harmony. Crossbow bolts cut through the room in black streaks and Brian flew backwards, crashing into the far wall. Avery could already tell, incredibly, that he was still alive. The wand was rising, shaking, even as one of the swordsmen bore down on the traitor.

“Everyone, out!” Some of them instantly obeyed, rushing to the entrance, some hesitated, and one was too intent on his target to hear. A lash of energy leapt from the wand to the blackrock on the table, even as the sword came down. The room exploded in a flare of white light.

The shockwave blew Avery and some of the stragglers through the doorway and into the corridor. He instinctively surveyed their condition: a little more than half of them had made it. The room beyond was flames, gouts of it rushing from the walls. He saw the small book lying to the side, half of it burning, and quickly batted it out. A deep rumbling began filling the hallway, moving from left to right - then it was all around them.

Blackrock.

Flames erupted from the room but they were already running, following the trails and footprints they’d so painstakingly traced before. It took less than a minute to reach the hidden entrance and burst into the upper level of the dungeon. Molten fire spilled from fountains and flames shot through cracks in the floor as a rushing sound filled the brightened depths behind them.

The horror of the place was lost on Avery, his only goal was the stairway he knew was only a short while ahead. The stagnant air began moving against him, rushing into the inferno he knew was coming. He hit the stairs, the light above blinding him and he barely avoided a fatal misstep. He could feel the heat on his back and the coolness on his face as he broke into the daylight and dove to the side of the entrance.

A stream of flame poured out from the entrance and then, with a roaring crash, rolled back inwards. Most of them had, thankfully, made it through their last, mad sprint. Dutifully, one of the bowmen was standing guard already over the makeshift camp as they caught their breaths.

Avery sat against the rough stone of the mountainside and flipped open the badly damaged book, he returned to the last page and its partial list of names.

“Erik, Sara, Richard, and Brian,” He said the names slowly, deliberately on the latter. They were amongst the first. He shut the book and closed his eyes.

Names. At least I have names.

Announcement from the Second Empire of Armageddon, concerning the Province of Britannia:

Her most Imperial Majesty, Velturasa Viaxus, Empress of the Second Empire of Armageddon, Matron of the House of Viaxus, Queen of the City of the Spider, and Feudal Mistress of the Lands of Britannia, wishes to remind all citizens of the recently conquered province of Britannia, that the branding of weapons is prohibited on Britannian Soil, except for naturalized citizens of the Empire. As Her most Imperial Majesty is a fair and just ruler, Britannian Occupied Residents will not be forced into the worship of a religion that is unnatural to them, however Britannian Occupied Residents will be instructed into a proper organized fashion concerning their virtues, as follows:

(Excerpt from the Empress's Speech of Occupation)

" To begin, Britannian Citizens will practice Honesty. They will tell us the locations of their resistances, and their allegiance to our Crown, or they will be executed. They will practice Compassion, and Board and Feed our Soldiers, or they will be executed. They will practice Valor, and bring arms against the Britannian Forces, or they will be executed. They will show Honor, and allow our Crown to administer their personal Lives, or be executed. They will show Justice, and begin executing their current Leaders, or suffer the same fate. They will show Sacrifice, and serve this Empire as Serfs, under an Imperial Regent, or they will be bonded into slavery. They will show Spirituality, and give reverence to Lloth, or be executed. And lastly they will show Humility to the Crown of Armageddon, and submit themselves before our Imperial Blood, or it shall wash over their faces as our knives pierce their backs.

Britannian Citizens are expected to report to the High Council Civic Center, in Compassion Grove, to confess to their sins against the Empire, Monday at 9pm by the Eastern Skies. Britannian Citizens will then vote to confirm Baroness Nosfentor as the Ruling Regent of Britannia, or they will be detained and executed.

Rebel Activity

Moonglow was attacked by a small Rebel Force of Knights on Tuesday, May 15th. The rebels were beaten back out of the city, but in response to this crime against the Crown, Moonglow Nobles who were seeking to evacuate the city were led into the field south of the Bank Gate, and summarily executed. The Empire reminds all Citizens that, attacks on Imperial Garrisons will be met with severe civilian reprisals.

The proud robes of Knighthood require an iron will and desire to embrace the Virtues brought down to us by the late Lord British, and his daughter Princess Nikki. The road to Knighthood is not one of leisure, but an intense road of discipline and intensive study.

To begin this journey one must first seek acceptance into the Squire program. This entails meeting with an existing Knight to have audience with Princess Nikki. Once you're accepted the true test of will begins. One is expect to learn the Virtues as taught by one of the Knights assigned to the new Squire. The arts of war and weaponry will accompany instruction in rules of engagement and the chain of command.

Squires progress at different rates depending on their motivation and history. Those that tutor will decide when the Squire is prepared to undertake their testing. The test is one of knowledge, character, and skill. This test is overseen by the Templar of the Royal Knights, prefectus oona. If this brave soul succeeds the Robes of Knighthood are bestowed.

This path is not for the meek or those of a light heart. But one will find a fulfilling and worthwhile a life of service to those that are less then able to protect themselves.

Now, you do not need to know the following things before you join, in fact being a squire is all about training you to a proficient level in the following subjects, but here's a rough outline of what you can expect..

First off, you will be humbled. Not a bad thing at all in my mind, but basically this means taking off those cool tokuno red leggings, the neon green sandals will have to go to. Get used to Black and Blue (in more ways than one), because that’s going to be your lot for at least a month, probably more. That’s right, squires are not promoted in a week or two, it’s MUCH more involved than most would expect.

You’ll also learn how and where to stand when told to fall in, how to address your superiors (FYI Don’t call a female knight Mistress, they don’t like that). You’ll also within a few days be assigned to a Knight Mentor. Your mentor is a senior Knight of great experience, they will help you choose skills if your unsure, give you insight into the knighthood, and of course demand that you run endless laps around the castle (yeah, laugh now, you’ll see)

Secondly, LEARN the VIRTUES. And not only learn them, but think about them, consider them, go over them in your mind. Yes, you will be philosophically tested, a lot.

Third, Learn Combat tactics. That’s right, tactics. Any moron can come up with a 6 x 120 character in a few months, Most people with the right equipment can become if not unbeatable at least very good in 1 on 1 fights. By Tactics I mean whom to attack first out of a group, how to deal with counter attacks from each skill set. Learn what the weaknesses are of the various spells and forms.

IF YOU THINK THIS IS FOR YOU MEET OUTSIDE OF KAZOLA'S TAVERN AT 10PM EASTERN TIME, COME EARLY AT 9PM EASTERN TIME TO MEET AND GREET SOME OTHER RP PEOPLE.

http://www.royalknights.org/space/Squires+of+Redemption+%28SoR%29

Due to the recent sacking of the Civic Center, the upcoming High Council meeting will be held in a different location. due to security considerations, this location will not be disclosed publically, but will be sent in reverse through the council system.

Councilors and Ministers, at this time continue your duties, but keep a low profile. The Empire of Armageddon has a price on Council members heads.

As soon as it is safe to do so, contact the Grand Marshall's office for instructions for the next meeting.

Citizens of Britannia, inquire of your local representative when and where to meet.

The meeting is scheduled to begin at the usual time.

Hail Britannia!

Carde and I would like to thank all of you who have participated in the Women of Roleplay calendar thus far. Both of us are having a great time planning it out, and Carde seems to be much like a kid in a candy store with so many subjects to draw.

At this point there is only 1 month open, our last Woman of Roleplay for 2008. The slot still isn't filled, so if you'd like to be featured as Lady December, or know someone who might, now is your chance to get those applications in!

Talking with people, it doesn't seem to be common knowledge that every character in the calendar will be a real person who plays UO! Our theme is "A Day at the Faire". There are plenty of people at faire, so we would like to offer an invitation to EVERYONE! Male, Female, Elf, Human, Drow.. Orcs.. Send in a description of your character so we can include them in the calendar! You can send in your alts, your mules. Heck, send in your character even if you don't play UO anymore!

You can be as vague or specific as you want, some people specify their measurements, other people just specify hairstyles and colors. If you have something specific in mind, a picture IS truly worth 1000 words.

You can send your information into admin@ds180.net

Attention: Ladies of Roleplay!

Please take a look at your concept art and verify that everything is just right. Don't be afraid to speak up if we got something wrong, that's what concept art is for, to make everything is just right before we commit it to the calendar itself.

If you've already spoken to Carde or myself about the changes, you don't need to again. We saved the information!

The deadline to make changes is May 27, 2007!

The Update (Something for the ladies!)

Ra'Dian Fl'Gith, Woodrow Call, and Alec DeLeon have been added to the concept art gallery. The background music has been updated yet again. Gentlemen, please let us know if changes need to be made!

http://ds180.net/calendar

Greetings Readers!

I'm proud to announce the latest update for the Herald, it's called IRC by Herald. It allows you to access the Great Lakes Roleplaying Community IRC channel via any browser capable of displaying frames. No special Javascripts required!

Give it a try!

IRC by Herald

You can also find the link to IRC by Herald on the navbar to the left.

from BNN:

Mortally wounded and leaving a gruesome trail of smeared, sticky blood on the winery floor, Grier pulled himself down into the darkness. Holding the candle out in front of him, he could only see a few feet into the perfect black surrounding him as he made his way ever deeper into the earth.

Grunting with every pull that ground more dirt into the wounds that the executioner had inflicted upon him during their long, drawn out battle, he moved at a pace that made time feel as if it had stopped. The two has fought a long, vicious battle in the depths of Dungeon Wrong, one that Grier had only won by opening himself up to a blow that would soon turn out to be his demise.

He couldn’t help but to wonder if it was worth it; though he was a firm believer in Lord British’s system of virtues, feeling one’s lifeblood drain away was shaking his resolve down to its core. With darkness closing in around him, Grier wasn’t sure if it was his candle growing dimmer or his vision finally beginning to give out, but he persevered and reached out to gain another finger hold to pull his nearly useless body another few inches.

Grier nearly succumbed to the noxious fumes pouring out of a roiling lava fall he passed close to the end of his quest, but he drew strength from the beautiful flame he held in front of him, knowing that the true Candle aflame must be quite a sight to behold.

Turning the last corner, he saw the Candle of Love before him! It was surrounded by a shroud of pure Hatred, its flame no longer shining forth, but Grier knew if he could just touch his flame to the Candle, he would diminish Astaroth’s hold. Perhaps it would roar to life once again!

When he pulled himself up to look over the rim of the magical lava maze, his heart sank. He knew with certainty then that he stood no chance of touching his flame to the true Candle, as his broken body would never allow him to negotiate the swift, ever changing maze. With a final sigh, he slid back down and laid his cheek upon the coarse stone. The candle fell from his bloody hand, its flame slowly extinguishing itself in the ancient dust that covered the cavern’s floor.

Before the darkness overcame him for the last time, Grier thought about the other brave adventurers that would follow behind him. He hoped that some must be strong enough to finish where he had failed. As he took his last breath, he saw the Candle of Love spark once in the darkness. Grier passed from this world believing that Astaroth was nearly beaten, and knowing that Love must surely overcome Hatred in the end.

The brave citizens of Britannia would see to it, or all they knew and loved would come to a sudden and final end.

Recruitment drives across Britannia have begun to bolster Britannia's armed forces for the battle against the Empire of Armageddon. New soldiers step up every day to join the fight!

Will you be one of them?

Contact your local Britannian Armed Forces recruiter and take a stand against evil!

It seemed to be any other meeting of the High Council. Dignataries, Councilors, and normal folk were all in attendance as usual. The topic of discussion was the recent war forced upon Britannia by forces of the Empire of Armageddon.

Of particular note, the council decided to declare the Blue Lotus clan, a group from the Tokuno Islands to be enemies of the state.

The council proceeded to other business, but was interrupted by an attack from Imperial forces. As the alarm was sounded, the entire council was evacuated by moongate, except Ra'Dian Fl'Gith, Lionel Alazraham, and Oona.

The Imperial forces penetrated the defenses in place by the Britannian Armed Forces and swarmed into the building. Oona led the defenders, while Chancellor Fl'Gith engaged in a running magical firefight that spanned 3 floors of the civic center. On the roof he did battle with Velturus Viaxus. The Chancellor was defeated after he became entangled in a maze of energy fields.

Lionel Alazraham remained unobserved in an unused office and provided intelligence to Britannia's forces, who were regrouping.

In the audience chamber, Velturus Viaxus made a speech to the few people the forces under his command did not slaughter. He declared that because the Empire had taken over the Civic Center, that it now ruled Britannia. To demonstrate, he placed a dark sword on the lectern and declared that the Empire should reign for so long as the sword remained.

Meanwhile, Britannian forces marched on Spider City, considered to be the capitol of the Empire of Armageddon. Finding no opposition, they began burning the various buildings. The empire, however, uses stone in most of its construction, so the fires only did limited damage. Several knights were heard to muse aloud if they should declare Spider City to be part of Britannia since they entered without combat being neccessary.

Keep your eyes on the Herald for the latest developments in the war!

A missive from the lands of Malas has Britannian Officials in an uproar. The document, said to be penned by the Emperess of the so called "Spider City", is essentially a declaration of war against Britannia. It announces their intention to attempt to annex the city of Britain.

The missive is sure to be the topic of much discussion at the upcoming High Council meeting. We're told that the Grand Marshall's office is already busy making preparations for war. The reservists have been called in, and the Royal Armories glow night and day with the light of their forges.

Estimates of the enemy by Royal Intelligence sources indicate that Britannian forces outnumber the enemy by a margin of less than 2 to 1. The Britannian forces are also believed to be better trained. The enemy, however, appears to be better funded and may hire mercenaries to bolster their ranks. The two forces are nearly equal in technology and production capacity.

Citizens in urban areas are encouraged to stay indoors whenever possible.

More on the situation as it develops.

from RKR:

Listening to the recent reports collected by the Dragoon MalagAste, Oona calculated her next move…Letting her mind wander, thinking back to when these they now watched were once friends. Her friends…

There came a small rap at the door, Nodding to MalagAste he crossed the room and disappeared into the shadows, Oona opened the door. Zeph Wightfrye stood in the doorframe, “I was just given some disturbing news, it’s from that woman, and I believe her name is Nosfentor. She gave this to me.” Handing her a roll of papers, Oona opened them slowly, remember the last few messages she had received, and they were not pleasant; acknowledging the torture and detainment of the last person you would think as a threat. Oona mind wandered again, “poor Kazola” Reading slowly, her hand closed tightly round it crumply the paper. Just the thought of her suffering under Nosfentor’s hand, the terror she must of endured.

“Malag, summon the Knights we head to the Compassion Shrine.” The door opened and his tall figure shadowed by the fading light of the day. “Thank you Zeph for bringing this to me, we ride to the Shrine” Grabbing her helm tucking it under her arm and followed out the door.

Heading South out of Newcastle the Knights flanked the road towards the Shrine. The words she has read continually coming to mind, “her ritual is complete”…”I have been drained of blood and she’s taken my hair”… “I don’t know how long I can hold on”…The voice of the Turcople Ariakas brought Oona back to the task at hand, “Watch your surroundings Knights” The towering building slowly came into sight, lifting her sword catching Ariakas’ eye tilting her head to the left he took a few Knights and headed towards the other side of the building. Wasn’t till then she noticed Zeph’s men had followed them, looking over motioning for him to fall in behind her and the Knights, he took the nod and them behind then around the building. Rounding the front Oona took a long drawn breath, afraid of what state Kazola would be in. Walking up the tall stair case, slowly pushing the heavy doors open, a small wisp of faint light showed through the crack in another door, allowing her faint moans to escape.

Opening the door with the blade of her sword, Oona crept round in the single candlelight a small figured laid on the floor, falling to her knees at her side “Kazola… Oh my friend I am sorry I didn’t find you sooner” Pulling the cork from a small potion placing it to her lips holding her head up lil so she could sip at it; Kazola’s eyes fluttered open slightly, with a faint smile. “Its over” she said repeatedly. Taking notice of the room, the bowls of blood scattered over the floor, the shackles that held her tightly tied to the Ankh. “What magic is this?” Oona thought to herself. “Can your men lift her?” Zeph nodded hitting his man on the arm they carefully lifted her, as Woodrow conjured a gate back North to Castle Redemption.

“The return of a second Shadow Lord”… What more was there to come….

From an anonymous source:

The slender young woman had been traveling for hours in the heat of the desert. She preferred the cool, green lands of Britannia, but the memory of the muttered phrases she had heard whispered in the city alleyways recently had urged her to travel to the deserts of Malas. As she rested, sitting on a large rock in the shade of a nearby ruin, she quickly checked her pack for the tattered piece of paper one of her most reliable sources had given her the previous evening.

... The House of Viaxus is up to something. I've heard rumors of a large gathering , and there have been several vicious murders in Skara Brae recently that fit their profile. See what you can find out. Any information could be worth a small fortune if given to the right people...

She hoped it was worth the trouble.


Later that night, her face grim, the woman raced back over the sands, riding a stolen horse. She had never been so reckless as to steal from the Umbra stables.. but this was bad.. very bad. She could still hear the Drow Empress Velturasa Viaxus' voice ringing in her ears..

" ... the Britannian Crown is no longer fit to serve as a protector of its citizens...."

" ... our delight to announce to this assembly that operations for a complete invasion and occupation of the Crown of Britannia will begin immediately.."

" ... We will see the poor wretched creatures of Britannia through this crisis, and bring them into the Darkness that is the Blessing of Lloth..."

Yes, this was bad. But there was even more grim news..

Representatives of Zento, including Soke Bishimi, Garrett, and Micarlin Z'ress of the Blue Lotus Clan had also been at the gathering, and suggested their own Empress was amenable to working with the Empire of Armageddon for the mutual benefit of both lands.

While not offering their support, Zeph Wightfyre, Devyn Dougall and Dragon Knight II of the Howling Voice, a band of mercenaries, also observed the proceedings.

Nosfentor, an Imperial Baroness believed to be holding Kazola of the Treetop Keg and Winery captive, was also in attendance. Empress Velturasa Viaxus, while not condoning or condemning the abduction, requested that Nosfentor free Kazola once she was no longer needed, and hinted at some sort of "blessing" for Kazola's Tavern as thanks for her assistance.

Shortly after the meeting ended, AunNilee Viaxus, appointed Lady General of the forming army of the Empire of Armageddon, was already making plans for war.


Selina urged her horse to run even faster. Dark days were coming for Britannia.

The Imperial Assembly is being called this Saturday, May 12th, 2007, at 9pm EST, at the Imperial Palace in Che'el d'Orbb (The City of the Spider).

I. The Imperial Assembly will be addressed by the Empress of the Second Empire of Armageddon.

II. The Nobles of the Empire will execute their right to address the Imperial Assembly.

III. The Leaders of Guilds or Organizations within the Empire will execute their right to address the Imperial Assembly.

IV. The Citizens of the Empire will execute their right to address the Imperial Assembly.

V. Emissaries and Diplomats of recognized Enemies, Allies, and Entities, will be given permission to address the Imperial Assembly. Diplomats and Emissaries from unrecognized Entities will petition the Court for Immunity.

VII. The Chamberlain will designate new Diplomats as secure in Immunity, as well as remove Immunity from those that offend the Court.

VIII. The Chamberlain will announce a sum of all outstanding Warrants and Standing Convictions of Felony of Imperial Law.

The Imperial Court, consisting of the Crown and the Nobles, will hold Convocation through Item IV, but may dismiss the assembly at any time afterwards by their leisure, as held by Imperial Law.

Velturus Viaxus
Quar'Valuk del lil Qu'ellar d'Viaxus
Chamberlain of the Second Empire of Armageddon

Signs of a struggle were evident at Kazola's Treetop Keg and Winery, where last eve the prominent taven keeper was abducted by force.

Just before the High Council was to meet, she was accosted, tied up with rope, and dragged from the establishment, authorities said. Authorities tell us they have promising leads, and a rescue plan is in the works.

It is believed that one Nosfentor is responsible for the crimes, and is wanted for questioning. She is of average height and build, and trained in the ways of Magery and Necromancy. She wears dark colors, and rides a black horse answering to the name of Templar.

If you have any information regarding this crime, please contact your local Sheriff, the Britannian Armed Forces or visit the nearest Kilted Police facility.

Working tirelessly since the incident in Haven and the surrounding isles, the Council's investigators have finally begun to piece together an idea of what really happened on that fateful day. Fragments of a crystal ball were recovered from the Haven Mage shop, and the skilled Britannian Royal Guard Archmages have managed to reconstruct some of the horror that crystal witnessed.

In order to help ensure that such a disaster never happens again, citizens of Britannia are encouraged to view these horrors for themselves.

http://www.uo.com/Haven_640_Medium.wmv

From Lionel Alazraham:

I'm pleased to announce the latest update to the 2008 Women of Roleplay Calendar site! This time around, we've got concept art for Solar Maid and Velturasa Viaxus! This marks the 11th wonderful lady to grace the calendar.

Come one, come all! Once again, Carde has outdone himself!

http://ds180.net/calendar

Greetings, readers!

It seems that our friends across the pacific in the woderous land of Japan have created themselves a promotional video for Kingdom Reborn.

Despite the fact that it's in Japanese, it's still pretty good! It's the best KR promotion I've seen, at least. Take a look for yourself:

http://ultimaonline.jp/kingdomreborn/index.html?key=kr

and thank DaKaren for pointing it out. A good eye on that one.

Greetings, one and all!

The Hansonian Institute is proud to announce our latest exhibit, the Ultima Videos exhibit. This new area contains videos from Ultima or about Ultims which the roleplayer may find useful.

We invite you peruse this exhibit, and any of our other exhibits at the Hansonian Institute!

http://ds180.net/hansonian

A crowd was gathered in the Newcastle Municipal Hall last eve. The knights wearing their finest armors and vestments, and the attendees likewise. The occasion? The ascension of the newest leader of the Royal Knights, Oona.

Now making residence in Newcastle, she hails originally from Trinsic, the youngest in a family of all boys. Her brothers were sent to war, and she became a camp follower. During this time she learned the art of the sword from the soldiers in attendance.

Oona has served with the Royal Knights for some time, having started her career as a squire. She earned the respect of both her peers and superiors and advsnced through the ranks at a steady pace. That advancement has now accumulated into the highest rank within the Knights: Praefectus.

The rank used to be called Templar, but it was changed as a sign that the RKR is moving into a new age under new leadership.

This ceremony takes place a mere 2 days after Oona accepted the mantle of Grand Marshall after the term of the previous Grand Marshall, Polynikes expired.

Aside from being the Grand Marshall of Virtue and the Praefectus of the Royal Knights, Oona is also featured in the Hansonian Institute as well as the WOR Calendar.