Steel DarKnight

The Guardians stood a diligent watch over their fallen Senator. Guards had been posted and positioned to bar entrance to anyone without leave to enter his quarters. Every hour, on the hour, a healer would be permitted to enter and check upon Steels status. Unfortunately, while the wound to his hand was healing quite well the more important matter of his conscience had not. Steel remained in the same position he had been ever since the Emperor had laid him in his bed. His cold sightless eyes peering upward toward the heavens, his skin pale and cold to the touch. Were it not for the faint beat of heart, and the slow weak breath coming from his lips, he would have been thought dead. Steel was unaware of all of the events swirling about him. The frantic hunt for the materials necessary to conjure his cure, the ultimatum given regarding Rico, the kidnapping of the Emperor. Locked inside his mind his thoughts were ablaze with thought. Thoughts of time past. Young Steel stood quietly behind his father. He watched the elder DarKnight heat a long beam of metal to a red-hot state. Once it had been heated enough to satisfy him, using a set of tongs he pulled it from the forge and set it upon and anvil placed near by. With long, hard, deliberate strokes he began to mold the unformed metal. As the metal started to cool, the elder DarKnight placed it back into the forge and motioned for his eldest son to pump the bellows. Steel wanting to please his father pumped the long handle furiously heating the coals and spewing forth red-hot flames and ash. Steels father chuckled slightly to himself. Walking to stand beside his son he patted him on the shoulder. Looking towards his father, Steel smiled hopefully. “That’s enough boy, we don’t want to melt it to nothing,” Steel’s father said with humor in his voice. “Yes father” Steel replied meekly. Quietly, The elder DarKnight motioned to his son to follow him outside to escape for a bit the damp heat of the workshop and into the cool morning air. Looking down on his son, he nodded to himself. The young boy was shaping up just fine. Steels father spoke gruffly “One day son, this will be yours and your brothers, Like my father, and his fathers before him” “It is your responsibility to continue the tradition as I, my father, and his father before him continued it.” The DarKnight’s have always, and will always produce the arms and armor of the Royal Guard of Britannia” “Dosst quortek zhah usst!” Came a low female voice from the back of Steels mind. Steel and his brothers ran quickly home, upon the horizon a steady line of smoke and ash rose towards the heavens. Smoke, heavy and black. Even from this distance the smell of charred wood rankled their noses. The brothers having been given the day off by their father, had chose to spend it together. They had traveled to the nearby river to enjoy the day fishing, and swimming. Sitting out in the sun, having just finished their swim it was with quite an alarm young Val, his fathers namesake noticed the rising smoke. Immediately, without even bothering to gather there things the brothers rushed towards their home. Rounding the corner, they all gazed in shock at the sight before them. Steel screamed in pain and sadness “Mother! Father!” “Natha or'shanse z'klaen tlu offered lu' paid, wun retlah” The voice again rang through his mind. The Champions stood firm at the western gate of Trinsic. Scouts had reported that the massive formations of the Juka army were moving to take Trinsic and the Alliance had pulled their forces here with hopes to stop the advance once and for all. Steel stood in the center of the line speaking words of encouragement to his comrades, pushing them to stand firm. Beside him stood many young Champions. Doddz, Kurt, Schneider, to name a few. Feeling a hand on his shoulder, Steel looked back towards his patron knight, Sir Ironside. Ironside nodded at his squire and then spoke “Hold them here laddy, if we should fail they will hit the backs of the other members of the alliance holding the other gates”. “Trinsic will fall and this war will be lost.” Steel nodded in acknowledgment to the elder knight. Clad in royal blue cloaks, and sashes, while wearing black kilts, the Champions prepared themselves for battle. It would not be long before they were tested and they knew this day could prove the turning point in the war. The wall of Champions was tested that day. Wave after wave of Juka smashed against it…but fell away as the waves upon the shore. After the battle Steel was again heard his name spoken. This time it was from Battle Commander Rand. “Steel, come with me.” Rand spoke. “We have been asked to meet with the Alliance commander” Steel followed the general through the streets of Trinsic; the bodies of Juka, as well as of members of the Alliance littered the roads. Victory had come, but at a heavy price. Eventually they reached the Barracks of Trinsic. The barracks were serving as the command and control center and within could be found the leaders of the many orders whom had formed the alliance. PGoH, GoL, T9C, C&C, VK….. General Rand, after looking over the people within, approached a tall balding man clad in black armor. “Hail Emperor Borg, The Champions bring welcome news from the west gate…………” “Dos z'klaen yaith natha price, natha or'shanse, xor zah'har ussta jusron” the voice spoke. “For Oath and Code” yelled Steel as he moved in on his assailant. Clearly, Steel now held the advantage. The attacker quickly was made the defender as he narrowly avoided Steel blade. The combatants locked blades struggling to gain an advantage. Seeing that he was not a match for Steels swordsmanship the assassin lunged forward with his Kryss then deftly bounded backwards separating himself from Steel. As he stepped backwards a pink vial flew from his hand landing at Steels feet. In that brief moment it took for Steels mind to recognize that liquid the vial exploded engulfing him in a ball of flame the force of which threw him backwards, knocking his helm several yards away. Somewhat dazed but knowing a pause would mean his death Steel, again leaped to his feet. His assailant had not moved and strangely had sheathed his blade. Chanting softly, with arms extended. Suddenly the green warrior shrieked “Os thus Mani!” Steel recognized these words of magic and quickly leaped towards the assassin. Almost instantly the green warrior shrieked “Corp Por”! Both forces of magical energy hit Steel at the same time but, due to years of battle with mages of darkness and the resulting resistance to magical energy, both attacks only lightly fazed him and served to increase his rage. Blinded by the assault and raging with anger Steel charged through his assailant sending the assassin flying to the ground. His helmet flying far from were he crumbled. Steel quickly approached, raising his blade to finish his foe. His mind, as it always did at moments like these, seemed to take everything into focus. The world seemed to slow. The rains,………….. lightning,…………… thunder,………………… The crumpled form of his attacker laying face down in the mud in front of him………………….. The body struggling to rise,…………………… struggling to lift his face from the mud. Flashes of lightning, almost continues, now ringed the sky in light. Both warriors looked to each other. Their eyes showing determination to win… to survive…. then suddenly, through their eyes, a brief moment of recognition followed by looks of horror. ……………………………. ……………………………. ……………………………. “Brother!” Steel looked grimly upon his younger brother a sibling that, he had thought, been lost to him many years past. Staggering with shock, and the feelings that suddenly tugged at his heart he could only say one word. “Why?” His brother spoke while still laying on the ground “Brother?…….Steel ….I didn’t know it was you…. HE paid me well. HE always pays me well. How was I to know?……. To know?……That……. That this time……. He never told me it was YOU! I would have never agreed….never…you have to believe me! “Stop,” shrieked Steel and he started to back away. He looked down at his brother. His light hair, his light blue eyes, his youthful features. “You are still cold as death brother. Does nothing but the promise of coin win your loyalty? Have you no yearning for something more…. something to fight for? Does only the feel of the blade, the fire of battle, and the hint of fortune warm your heart? Verite DarKnight looked up from the ground at his brother. Looked up, as he had all his life to his elder sibling. Ever so gently he shook his head. Steel had made his choice in life. I have made mine. They were the only logical choices at the time. That fork in the road had long ago been passed. There was no going back. Or was there? “Brother….I….” Verite spoke quietly. “Brother”? Steel seemed to spit out the words. “I have no Brother named Verite”. “At least I don’t anymore” “He left along time ago and it seems he is never to return”. “I mourn his death.” Know this you………. “Mercenary”. Next time I will not stay my hand. Next time…………. The only sounds that could be heard as Steel walked away was his own footsteps and the gentle sobs that seemed to come from the green clad warrior who still had not picked himself up from the blood stained, mud soaked, ground. “Dos z'klaen yaith dosst due tlu ol dos xor mina, ol z'klaen tlu paid.” Turning his head so that his face could not be seen by the young Decurion, Emperor Borg looked towards the head of the Praetorian Guard. Standing protectively nearby Sir Brightblade looked towards his emperor and, for the slightest of seconds, broke his cold stare with a wink. A wink, that was returned by the emperor. Steel waited calmly for his emperor’s orders. He watched as the Emperor raised himself from the collection of maps on the table and strode, arms locked behind him, to the castle window. Borg paused a moment at the window looking towards the sea. Without turning he spoke “ Decurion, make it so”. Steel raised himself from the table and saluted. “Yes milord”. Descending the stairs from the Emperors quarters and quickly making his way to his office Steel hurriedly organized his thoughts. Upon reaching his office he quickly scribbled a brief message upon several scrolls stored near his desk and sealed them with his insignia. After this was completed he called for couriers for delivery. Darkness soon penetrated the office as day turned into night. Steel continued to sit staring into the darkness his thoughts many leagues away. “Dos ph' wasting draeval rivvil, doer ulu uns'aa nin!” After a brief moment of silence Steel began to speak. “Ange, so now you understand what we hope to accomplish?” Ange answered “Yes sir I do.” Steel nodded “So what are your thoughts?” Ange smiled “A excellent plan sir. I believe we should be able to achieve our goal.” Steel nodded once more and looked down the empty hall. “Aye, the trap is going to be set” he said. “A little bait for our enemies and BAM!” Steel punched one mailed fist into the other to emphasize his point. “Ange for this mission to succeed this plan must be kept in complete secrecy until we begin our assault. The enemy we face and their allies have many eyes and ears through out the realms. If our battle plans fall into the wrong hands we could very well be marching to our own funerals. The empire’s very existence relies on a victory here. If we should fail we shall find these forces upon our very door.” “We must not, nay, can not lose!” “Understood sir,” answered Ange solemnly. “Dosst brethrens dro hangs wun l' balance wael.” The voice said loudly. Steel walked from soldier to soldier. Noble Kodoz stood along side Knight Kentaro and recently blooded Aidan. Steel looked to Aidan for any sign of nervousness, as this would be his first major battle. Steel saw none and was proud of the young Legionnaire. To the sides behind the walls sat many Mages. Prometheus, Neo, Logan, War Dog, Earwen, all of whom were under the command of Ange sans Ailes. She had placed them as her and Steel had discussed and they would be almost untouchable behind the walls of the entrance. From these safe positions they could cast their deadly magic’s without fear of harm. Upstairs on the battlements Mages and archers kneeled behind the walls to conceal their location. Their job to destroy any Savages that attempted to retreat to warn the village. In the castle courtyard Thiork was hard at work creating gates of magic and whisking in the steeds that would be needed for the next stage. Once all was ready, the next step was set in motion. Steel Darknight mounted a steed and rode towards the enemy village. Alone, he appeared a easy target and it wasn’t long before he was set upon by a large group of Savages whom thirsted for vengeance against those “Ironskins” like him whom had killed so many on the beaches. Steel quickly wheeled his steed and sprinted towards castle. He was forced to slow several times to allow the Savages to remain in sight. Unfortunately, the Savage shaman saw this as an opportunity and blasted the Knight with their foul magic. Beaten, bloody, and barely conscience Steel rode through the open door of the castle. Hordes of screaming Savages in tow. To their surprise they found not the single half-dead knight they expected. The jaws of the “trap” had closed and they instead found a wall of blades and armor interlocked to prevent their passage. To the side’s chants of magic rose up from the walls and it was only moments before waves of fire and poison started to wash over the now terrified Savages. As much as they tried the Savages could not retreat. As this attempt to retreat was blocked by an equal amount of savages who were pressing to enter and soon, they too, were awash in magical energy as the mages and archers positioned on the battlements raised and began their assault. The bodies of the first Savage wave soon lay littered around the courtyard. “L' draeval uriu doer whol dosst choice S'argt.” “No! No! No!…No!.” Quickly, he wheeled Honor about seeking to turn back….He knew that the forces before him were more than he could handle alone. His hope, to return to Olympus and gather reinforcements. His hopes were quickly dashed as yet another portal opened behind him. This one having been created by arcane magery. The creatures pouring forth though were the same. Steel recognized these…Gargoyles, Demons, their number countless and awful to behold.… It seemed as if the Abyss itself had emptied in order to stop him. Wheeling Honor about once more Steel knew his only hope lay in reaching the Moongate. Clicking his steeds flanks he urged it forward. Unsheathing his sword he yelled… HONOR! HONOR! Crashing into the evil spawn, he thrust his blade from side to side seeking to clear his way. His pace while quick as first slowed as the evil spawn reached for him, and his steed, seeking to tear them to the ground. With an evil cry the hordes pushed against him. As one would fall, it would be replaced, by another, and another. Steel spared one moment to look towards the moongate… Yet more of the evil spawn poured forth. With a cry of victory, the hordes tore Steel from his mount. Its pitiful cries moving though the air as it was brought down…then silenced Steel himself was covered with blood…his enemies and his own. Although he had quickly leapt to his feet after being demounted, he could not move forward, nor back. The bodies of his foes lay piled about him…along with his shield, having been battered by use. His tunic soon joined the pile as it too failed him. His enemies seemed to increase…… Steel knew at that moment that he has failed and his death was assured. He seeked only to take as many of the Demon spawn with him as he fell. His breath was heavy, his wounds many…he had fought for a time that seemed to be hours. With a rush the enemy brought him down…He felt the chain and the amulet being ripped from his neck…. he had failed. As sudden as it had come, the enemy departed…. Steel slowly pushed a body, skewered by his blade, off of him …and looked about. He saw the last of the enemy move through a portal that had been opened to the side of the moongate. Slowly Steel crawled forward in an attempt to follow. Yet as he looked up one form stepped through portal. Larger yet than the daemons he had fought it was, it wings lay tattered upon its back, its skin a motley grayish brown. Leering down at Steel it spoke. “Foolissssshhhh Mortal……you have failed…The time of your Guardianssssss…issssss over…. Our mastersssss wisssssh your Death." “Come mortal…..your death awaitssssssss you’sssssss……” Steel slowly rose to his feet. Coughing and spitting blood to the side he spoke……. “I……….Shall……..not……. LOSE!!” “Ussta elg'cahl grows rin'ov stronger wun dos dhyn.” Slowly, Steel closed the window and sat down in the chair positioned next to it. Looking downward, Steel pondered the course of recent events. The realms had change, along with the people within it. The gods themselves had some hand in this as their sweeping changes and creations had altered reality to a very different state than what it first was. The threats of the past had disappeared, the undead lords were in check and their activities and groups were isolated to a few catacombs. The Orcs and Savages had been greatly weakened by the constant onslaught of man. They retained but a small portion of the power they once had. The Juka had all but disappeared after the death of Blackthorne. Almost all evidence of the Army of the Sands had disappeared and the prophesized invasion had never come. No enemies threaten the guardians or their holdings and thus the Order had no focus. No longer did the young squires run about the castle tending to their Knights requirements, or studying the arts of war. Possible entrants to the empire had all but dried up. It seemed that the younger generation of the realm had little or no interest in the teachings of an old order. Or the honor and comradely to be found within. Opening the door he walked out upon the entryway. As always standing his lonely guard stood Todd the Sentry. The old warrior looked exhausted, almost as if he could fall at any moment. The late day had turned into night. Steel realized that the ancient sentry had not been relieved in some time Steel felt pride at this old warriors sense of duty, even though no one would have noticed his leave, he continued to remain at his post. Steel slid his hand through his slightly graying hair. Pausing a moment as if to make a choice he placed his helmet on his head and saluted the Sentry. “Although the night is often cold and dark, and brings perhaps things we may not have foreseen…. the morning, it always comes.” “I shall stand with you this night.” “Nin zhah l' draeval, dos inbal natha choice S'argt belbau dosstan xor nindyn dos zhaun lu' ssinssrigg zhal rei lu' l'lonna.” Spoke the voice with expectation in her voice. Steel found himself kneeling in a great throne room of darkness and shadow. Before him, sitting upon a throne of ebony a young female drow elf watched him intently. Steel attempted to meet her gaze but could not. Every time he tried, her eyes burned into his, forcing him to tear away. A slight evil laugh could be heard from the elf. Dhyn solen zhahen naut meant ulu l'inya pholor l' phraktos. Steel bowed his head downward. Stepping down from the throne, the young drow woman approached him. Instantly, Steels mind was beaten with the events of the past week. The desperate search for a cure, the ultimatum on Rico’s life, the capture of the Emperor. Dos inbal natha choice ulu morfeth S'argt, dos shlu'ta dortho wun saving nindyn vel'ussa dos inbal noamuth, jhal l' toll zhah natha obok uss. . Dosst athiyk zhah protected dal uns'aa, tangis' nin 'zil ussta elg'cahl xunden olt i'dol areion dosst khel. Dos z'klaen belbau dosstan ulu uns'aa totally lu' xuileb reserve. Dosst khel Usstan shlu'ta plynn, jhal dosst athiyk zhah vel'bol Usstan lac. Dos kampi'un l' consequences d' vel'bol orn sha'nalt ka dos xun naut qua'l siyo? Steels mind was again buffeted with thoughts of his legion’s torture. The pain,….the blood….the never-ending night. He saw it all as if it was happening Steel, looked up towards the evil goddess, and in that moment stood firm in his gaze with defiance in his eyes. His mind burned as a result, the pain unbearable. “I give myself to you, on the condition that the events you have shown me are not to pass…….” Steel grunted in pain and finally lowered his gaze back to the floor. The evil goddess laughed once more. “Waela dhyn, Usstan iglata naubol byr taga ulu simply drewst ussta influence lu' dortho dal l' events ulu doer.” “Dosst “S'argten” orn inbal ulu deal xuil vel'bol’s zet d' nindel situation nintan.” “Usstan orn inbal vel'bol Usstan lac.” Gently she reached down towards the fallen Guardian and raised him up towards her. “Usstan nin inbal vel'bol Usstan lac.” The Guardians stood over their fallen Senator. The salve they had so desperately sought the reagents to be applied to the letter of the instructions given them. Quietly they spoke among themselves as the healers worked to remove the bandages. What if the cure did not work? What would they do? The Emperor captured, The S.o.W. bedridden, or worse dead. Steels eyes fluttered open…..quietly he looked towards his Guardians with great reverence and respect in his eyes. To each and every one he looked meeting their gaze in turn. As he had seen many of their predecessors come, grow, and then move on. He had watched many of these, the new generation of guardians come, and grow…… “Look towards the leafless trees of Trinsic, There, you shall find what you seek, in the appointed hour. Strength and Honor Guardians. Safe journeys….. And with those final words, Steels eyes fluttered shut, and his last breath rattled from his chest. Finally at peace, but for a single tear rolling down his cheek. They say that in a mans final hour, before his death, the events of his life are replayed to him Perhaps this is true, perhaps not. But in this way, perhaps, a man is judged on that final hour.

For the previous story and ingame event in full: The Drow Saga Below: Post 1 & 2 repeated from original event. Post 3- 4 - 5 New storyline

*steps in from the darkness* Happy Birthday to both of you my friends.

I am watching. As I have, and as I always will be Rest assured my friends that I have not abandoned you. My heart and spirit are still very much a part of Sosaria and of the Guardians. Rest assured.....you have not seen the last of the DarKnight's Logan, Akroma, Kaatya, and all those whom have the heart and spirit to lead........ Move the empire ever upward and forward. Strength and Honor Steel DarKnight

Last week, as mentioned in a previous FYI, our housing system began tracking houses that were owned by inactive accounts (accounts that have been cancelled or suspended due to non-payment for more than 10 days are considered “inactive accounts”). That same FYI also mentioned that, starting today (Wednesday, October 29), any house owned by an inactive account will become condemned. However, we have made a change to today’s proceedings, and the global auto-refreshing that began on September 11, 2001 will not be turned off at this time. Extending the global auto-refresh means that: Primary houses, grandfathered houses, and “condemned-inactive” houses on inactive accounts will continue to refresh daily. If you place or are traded a house, your old house(s) will still become condemned and decay. If a grandfathered account becomes inactive for more than 10 days, then only the most recently placed house will become condemned-inactive and all other houses owned by that account will become condemned (and begin decaying). This extension of the auto-refresh is only temporary. After additional research and consideration, we have decided to treat grandfathered houses on active accounts in the same manner as primary houses on active accounts. Once the final adjustment is implemented, both primary and grandfathered houses will auto-refresh themselves—any non-condemned house owned by an active account will auto-refresh itself. This change to grandfathered houses will not be immediate, and therefore the continuation of global auto-refreshing was required to ensure these houses remained on each shard while we make the appropriate changes. We are currently planning to have these changes activated by Publish 21. The most important thing to remember is still that an account that stays inactive for more than 10 days will condemn all houses that it owns, although for the moment one house per account will temporarily continue to auto-refresh even if the account is inactive.

*cough* Al Capone's vault *cough*

Within Olympus a shadowy form paced the ancient hallways. For it, time was eternal, but its time within this realm was short. Much it had to finish before it departed. Over the course of the past weeks, it had inhabited the ancient citadel unbeknownst to those whom gathered within. It had watched the initial confusion and shock that came with the capture of the Emperor and the loss of the Senator of War. It had also watched as the Legion, galvanized to action by those losses, mustered itself for war. The shadowy form’s silent voice spoke to those within the ranks, mustering their confidences when it failed them, guiding them when they seemed lost. Through the Legions actions, it had watched as the Emperor was recovered. On this day the Guardians had gathered, as was their tradition, to discuss those events. The conflict of the drow was at an end. But many troubling questions remained to be answered. The whispery form watched, just as it had over the course of the past weeks. Several Guardians rose to speak and to promote their ideas for the future of the empire. To answer the questions that remained opened. Noticing the brave Dragoon maiden Akroma sitting to the front, silent, it pressed forward to stand beside her. She appeared to just barely be listening to those whom spoke, engaged in her own thoughts. The shadowy form gazed fondly down upon her and kneeled. Its ghostly mouth moving slowly in words only she could hear. Akroma’s eyes, having been focused downward, rose to view the empty chairs before her. It all seemed clear to her now, she knew what she needed to do. “Senator Lora, if I may speak?” Akroma spoke with a waving and raised arm. “I would like to motion that……………” Silent and unseen, the shadowy form again moved towards the back of the chamber. As it reached the back of the chamber a large, dark gate opened. Steel DarKnight’s time here was at an end Before walking through, Steel turned back once and looked over the Legion. “Look towards the leafless trees of Trinsic, There you shall find what you seek, in the appointed hour.” *The End*

Hudson, You, your granddaughter, and your family are in my prayers. It is a sad day indeed when one so young, and innocent, has such a dreadful malady pressed upon her. As hope, my pastors daughter, years ago was diagnosed with Cancer. The outlook was unfortunetly grim. I am pleased to say, that today, after therapy she has been cured of the diesease. Through charitable orginizations and charitable donors set up within our nation to aid children with this sickness, she and her familily were able to find the medical and financial support needed. My pastors faith never waivered during this time of trouble. In this, I myself gained faith. Hudson, God bless you and your granddaughter.

Unfortunately, the fault in this is mine. In my original post, I decided to use exactly the words of the ultimatum that was given to me. Because this was an immediate threat, and future events were unknown, I posted a translation. In my second post I did not. The reason for this was twofold. One, in any story, you the reader should have a sense of the sight, smell, taste, and emotion of the events being unfolded before you. In this scenario we are dealing with an enemy that is very foreign to us, a race that is almost an enigma. In order to give this true foreign sense of an alien race I chose to use their language. Two, I did not necessarily believe that the post would be translated, leaving Steels actions somewhat of a mystery. For a certain few, curiosity would demand they knew the full events of what would occur. They would translate the posts, and perhaps from the reference sight given also learn more of the opponent we face. In truth I have the original post written in English saved away. Obviously, I also had to translate, just in reverse. My intent was to post this a few days after the original, that is, until Kaatya stepped up and provided a translation as well as doing it in a RP manner. Unfortunately, I did not take into consideration the precedent this would set. Nor did I take into consideration the time that other people would need to spend to get the needed information. I was concerned only with how the story was portrayed. A bit shortsighted and inconsiderate on my part. For future posts I believe it would be in the best interest of our readers to have the post either subtitled, or a second post added with the translation. Strength and Honor. *whisks himself back into nothingness*

Oct 13 2003 5:46PM Housing’s Phase 3 brings the possibility for houses owned by inactive accounts to become condemned and decay. The Phase 3 audit, when the housing system first begins checking which houses are owned by inactive accounts, will begin the morning of Wednesday, October 15 CT. Houses on account that are reactivated before the billing upgrade and Phase 3 audits begin will not be condemned. Reactivating an account after the audit begins will not keep a house from becoming condemned. Houses on inactive accounts will not begin decaying right away, but they will begin entering a normal “Condemned” state and decay within 5 days. (Note: If the condemned timer runs out but contacted vendors still exist on that house, the house will change to “Demolition Pending.” Houses in these “post decay” phase cannot be traded or removed, and will disappear once all the vendors have expired.) During this audit period, players will not be able to place or trade houses. Players should be able to make housing transactions again when the audit is complete. Auto-refresh is not being turned off at this time. We will post an announcement stating when automatic refreshing of all houses will be turned off. For more information about Housing Phase 3 and these audits, please read Housing Phase 3 in the Update Center and our Housing/Phase 3 Q&A Team Comment by Keith “Sannio” Quinn.

Drowish Translator

The Guardians stood a diligent watch over their fallen Senator. Guards had been posted and positioned to bar entrance to anyone without leave to enter his quarters. Every hour, on the hour, a healer would be permitted to enter and check upon Steels status. Unfortunately, while the wound to his hand was healing quite well the more important matter of his conscience had not. Steel remained in the same position he had been ever since the Emperor had laid him in his bed. His cold sightless eyes peering upward toward the heavens, his skin pale and cold to the touch. Were it not for the faint beat of heart, and the slow weak breath coming from his lips, he would have been thought dead. Steel was unaware of all of the events swirling about him. The frantic hunt for the materials necessary to conjure his cure, the ultimatum given regarding Rico, the kidnapping of the Emperor. Locked inside his mind his thoughts were ablaze with thought. Thoughts of time past. Young Steel stood quietly behind his father. He watched the elder DarKnight heat a long beam of metal to a red-hot state. Once it had been heated enough to satisfy him, using a set of tongs he pulled it from the forge and set it upon and anvil placed near by. With long, hard, deliberate strokes he began to mold the unformed metal. As the metal started to cool, the elder DarKnight placed it back into the forge and motioned for his eldest son to pump the bellows. Steel wanting to please his father pumped the long handle furiously heating the coals and spewing forth red-hot flames and ash. Steels father chuckled slightly to himself. Walking to stand beside his son he patted him on the shoulder. Looking towards his father, Steel smiled hopefully. “That’s enough boy, we don’t want to melt it to nothing,” Steel’s father said with humor in his voice. “Yes father” Steel replied meekly. Quietly, The elder DarKnight motioned to his son to follow him outside to escape for a bit the damp heat of the workshop and into the cool morning air. Looking down on his son, he nodded to himself. The young boy was shaping up just fine. Steels father spoke gruffly “One day son, this will be yours and your brothers, Like my father, and his fathers before him” “It is your responsibility to continue the tradition as I, my father, and his father before him continued it.” The DarKnight’s have always, and will always produce the arms and armor of the Royal Guard of Britannia” “Dosst quortek zhah usst!” Came a low female voice from the back of Steels mind. Steel and his brothers ran quickly home, upon the horizon a steady line of smoke and ash rose towards the heavens. Smoke, heavy and black. Even from this distance the smell of charred wood rankled their noses. The brothers having been given the day off by their father, had chose to spend it together. They had traveled to the nearby river to enjoy the day fishing, and swimming. Sitting out in the sun, having just finished their swim it was with quite an alarm young Val, his fathers namesake noticed the rising smoke. Immediately, without even bothering to gather there things the brothers rushed towards their home. Rounding the corner, they all gazed in shock at the sight before them. Steel screamed in pain and sadness “Mother! Father!” “Natha or'shanse z'klaen tlu offered lu' paid, wun retlah” The voice again rang through his mind. The Champions stood firm at the western gate of Trinsic. Scouts had reported that the massive formations of the Juka army were moving to take Trinsic and the Alliance had pulled their forces here with hopes to stop the advance once and for all. Steel stood in the center of the line speaking words of encouragement to his fellow troops, pushing them to stand firm. Beside him stood many young Champions. Doddz, Kurt, Schneider, to name a few. Feeling a hand on his shoulder, Steel looked back towards his patron knight, Sir Ironside. Ironside nodded at his squire and then spoke “Hold them here laddy, if we should fail they will hit the backs of the other members of the alliance holding the other gates”. “Trinsic will fall and this war will be lost.” Steel nodded in acknowledgment to the elder knight. Clad in royal blue cloaks, and sashes, while wearing black kilts, the Champions prepared themselves for battle. It would not be long before they were tested and they knew this day could prove the turning point in the war. The wall of Champions was tested that day. Wave after wave of Juka smashed against it…but fell away as the waves upon the shore. After the battle Steel was again heard his name spoken. This time it was from Battle Commander Rand. “Steel, come with me.” Rand spoke. “We have been asked to meet with the Alliance commander” Steel followed the general through the streets of Trinsic; the bodies of Juka, as well as of members of the Alliance littered the roads. Victory had come, but at a heavy price. Eventually they reached the Barracks of Trinsic. The barracks were serving as the command and control center and within could be found the leaders of the many orders whom had formed the alliance. PGoH, GoL, T9C, C&C, VK….. General Rand, after looking over the people within, approached a tall balding man clad in black armor. “Hail Emperor Borg, The Champions bring welcome news from the west gate…………” “Dos z'klaen yaith natha price, natha or'shanse, xor zah'har ussta jusron” the voice spoke. “For Oath and Code” yelled Steel as he moved in on his assailant. Clearly, Steel now held the advantage. The attacker quickly was made the defender as he narrowly avoided Steel blade. The combatants locked blades struggling to gain an advantage. Seeing that he was not a match for Steels swordsmanship the assassin lunged forward with his Kryss then deftly bounded backwards separating himself from Steel. As he stepped backwards a pink vial flew from his hand landing at Steels feet. In that brief moment it took for Steels mind to recognize that liquid the vial exploded engulfing him in a ball of flame the force of which threw him backwards, knocking his helm several yards away. Somewhat dazed but knowing a pause would mean his death Steel, again leaped to his feet. His assailant had not moved and strangely had sheathed his blade. Chanting softly, with arms extended. Suddenly the green warrior shrieked “Os thus Mani!” Steel recognized these words of magic and quickly leaped towards the assassin. Almost instantly the green warrior shrieked “Corp Por”! Both forces of magical energy hit Steel at the same time but, due to years of battle with mages of darkness and the resulting resistance to magical energy, both attacks only lightly fazed him and served to increase his rage. Blinded by the assault and raging with anger Steel charged through his assailant sending the assassin flying to the ground. His helmet flying far from were he crumbled. Steel quickly approached, raising his blade to finish his foe. His mind, as it always did at moments like these, seemed to take everything into focus. The world seemed to slow. The rains,………….. lightning,…………… thunder,………………… The crumpled form of his attacker laying face down in the mud in front of him………………….. The body struggling to rise,…………………… struggling to lift his face from the mud. Flashes of lightning, almost continues, now ringed the sky in light. Both warriors looked to each other. Their eyes showing determination to win… to survive…. then suddenly, through their eyes, a brief moment of recognition followed by looks of horror. ……………………………. ……………………………. ……………………………. “Brother!” Steel looked grimly upon his younger brother a sibling that, he had thought, been lost to him many years past. Staggering with shock, and the feelings that suddenly tugged at his heart he could only say one word. “Why?” His brother spoke while still laying on the ground “Brother?…….Steel ….I didn’t know it was you…. HE paid me well. HE always pays me well. How was I to know?……. To know?……That……. That this time……. He never told me it was YOU! I would have never agreed….never…you have to believe me! “Stop,” shrieked Steel and he started to back away. He looked down at his brother. His light hair, his light blue eyes, his youthful features. “You are still cold as death brother. Does nothing but the promise of coin win your loyalty? Have you no yearning for something more…. something to fight for? Does only the feel of the blade, the fire of battle, and the hint of fortune warm your heart? Verite DarKnight looked up from the ground at his brother. Looked up, as he had all his life to his elder sibling. Ever so gently he shook his head. Steel had made his choice in life. I have made mine. They were the only logical choices at the time. That fork in the road had long ago been passed. There was no going back. Or was there? “Brother….I….” Verite spoke quietly. “Brother”? Steel seemed to spit out the words. “I have no Brother named Verite”. “At least I don’t anymore” “He left along time ago and it seems he is never to return”. “I mourn his death.” Know this you………. “Mercenary”. Next time I will not stay my hand. Next time…………. The only sounds that could be heard as Steel walked away was his own footsteps and the gentle sobs that seemed to come from the green clad warrior who still had not picked himself up from the blood stained, mud soaked, ground. “Dos z'klaen yaith dosst due tlu ol dos xor mina, ol z'klaen tlu paid.” Turning his head so that his face could not be seen by the young Decurion, Emperor Borg looked towards the head of the Praetorian Guard. Standing protectively nearby Sir Brightblade looked towards his emperor and, for the slightest of seconds, broke his cold stare with a wink. A wink, that was returned by the emperor. Steel waited calmly for his emperor’s orders. He watched as the Emperor raised himself from the collection of maps on the table and strode, arms locked behind him, to the castle window. Borg paused a moment at the window looking towards the sea. Without turning he spoke “ Decurion, make it so”. Steel raised himself from the table and saluted. “Yes milord”. Descending the stairs from the Emperors quarters and quickly making his way to his office Steel hurriedly organized his thoughts. Upon reaching his office he quickly scribbled a brief message upon several scrolls stored near his desk and sealed them with his insignia. After this was completed he called for couriers for delivery. Darkness soon penetrated the office as day turned into night. Steel continued to sit staring into the darkness his thoughts many leagues away. “Dos ph' wasting draeval rivvil, doer ulu uns'aa nin!” After a brief moment of silence Steel began to speak. “Ange, so now you understand what we hope to accomplish?” Ange answered “Yes sir I do.” Steel nodded “So what are your thoughts?” Ange smiled “A excellent plan sir. I believe we should be able to achieve our goal.” Steel nodded once more and looked down the empty hall. “Aye, the trap is going to be set” he said. “A little bait for our enemies and BAM!” Steel punched one mailed fist into the other to emphasize his point. “Ange for this mission to succeed this plan must be kept in complete secrecy until we begin our assault. The enemy we face and their allies have many eyes and ears through out the realms. If our battle plans fall into the wrong hands we could very well be marching to our own funerals. The empire’s very existence relies on a victory here. If we should fail we shall find these forces upon our very door.” “We must not, nay, can not lose!” “Understood sir,” answered Ange solemnly. “Dosst brethrens dro hangs wun l' balance wael.” The voice said loudly. Steel walked from soldier to soldier. Noble Kodoz stood along side Knight Kentaro and recently blooded Aidan. Steel looked to Aidan for any sign of nervousness, as this would be his first major battle. Steel saw none and was proud of the young Legionnaire. To the sides behind the walls sat many Mages. Prometheus, Neo, Logan, War Dog, Earwen, all of whom were under the command of Ange sans Ailes. She had placed them as her and Steel had discussed and they would be almost untouchable behind the walls of the entrance. From these safe positions they could cast their deadly magic’s without fear of harm. Upstairs on the battlements Mages and archers kneeled behind the walls to conceal their location. Their job to destroy any Savages that attempted to retreat to warn the village. In the castle courtyard Thiork was hard at work creating gates of magic and whisking in the steeds that would be needed for the next stage. Once all was ready, the next step was set in motion. Steel Darknight mounted a steed and rode towards the enemy village. Alone, he appeared a easy target and it wasn’t long before he was set upon by a large group of Savages whom thirsted for vengeance against those “Ironskins” like him whom had killed so many on the beaches. Steel quickly wheeled his steed and sprinted towards castle. He was forced to slow several times to allow the Savages to remain in sight. Unfortunately, the Savage shaman saw this as an opportunity and blasted the Knight with their foul magic. Beaten, bloody, and barely conscience Steel rode through the open door of the castle. Hordes of screaming Savages in tow. To their surprise they found not the single half-dead knight they expected. The jaws of the “trap” had closed and they instead found a wall of blades and armor interlocked to prevent their passage. To the side’s chants of magic rose up from the walls and it was only moments before waves of fire and poison started to wash over the now terrified Savages. As much as they tried the Savages could not retreat. As this attempt to retreat was blocked by an equal amount of savages who were pressing to enter and soon, they too, were awash in magical energy as the mages and archers positioned on the battlements raised and began their assault. The bodies of the first Savage wave soon lay littered around the courtyard. “L' draeval uriu doer whol dosst choice S'argt.” “No! No! No!…No!.” Quickly, he wheeled Honor about seeking to turn back….He knew that the forces before him were more than he could handle alone. His hope, to return to Olympus and gather reinforcements. His hopes were quickly dashed as yet another portal opened behind him. This one having been created by arcane magery. The creatures pouring forth though were the same. Steel recognized these…Gargoyles, Demons, their number countless and awful to behold.… It seemed as if the Abyss itself had emptied in order to stop him. Wheeling Honor about once more Steel knew his only hope lay in reaching the Moongate. Clicking his steeds flanks he urged it forward. Unsheathing his sword he yelled… HONOR! HONOR! Crashing into the evil spawn, he thrust his blade from side to side seeking to clear his way. His pace while quick as first slowed as the evil spawn reached for him, and his steed, seeking to tear them to the ground. With an evil cry the hordes pushed against him. As one would fall, it would be replaced, by another, and another. Steel spared one moment to look towards the moongate… Yet more of the evil spawn poured forth. With a cry of victory, the hordes tore Steel from his mount. Its pitiful cries moving though the air as it was brought down…then silenced Steel himself was covered with blood…his enemies and his own. Although he had quickly leapt to his feet after being demounted, he could not move forward, nor back. The bodies of his foes lay piled about him…along with his shield, having been battered by use. His tunic soon joined the pile as it too failed him. His enemies seemed to increase…… Steel knew at that moment that he has failed and his death was assured. He seeked only to take as many of the Demon spawn with him as he fell. His breath was heavy, his wounds many…he had fought for a time that seemed to be hours. With a rush the enemy brought him down…He felt the chain and the amulet being ripped from his neck…. he had failed. As sudden as it had come, the enemy departed…. Steel slowly pushed a body, skewered by his blade, off of him …and looked about. He saw the last of the enemy move through a portal that had been opened to the side of the moongate. Slowly Steel crawled forward in an attempt to follow. Yet as he looked up one form stepped through portal. Larger yet than the daemons he had fought it was, it wings lay tattered upon its back, its skin a motley grayish brown. Leering down at Steel it spoke. “Foolissssshhhh Mortal……you have failed…The time of your Guardianssssss…issssss over…. Our mastersssss wisssssh your Death." “Come mortal…..your death awaitssssssss you’sssssss……” Steel slowly rose to his feet. Coughing and spitting blood to the side he spoke……. “I……….Shall……..not……. LOSE!!” “Ussta elg'cahl grows rin'ov stronger wun dos dhyn.” Slowly, Steel closed the window and sat down in the chair positioned next to it. Looking downward, Steel pondered the course of recent events. The realms had change, along with the people within it. The gods themselves had some hand in this as their sweeping changes and creations had altered reality to a very different state than what it first was. The threats of the past had disappeared, the undead lords were in check and their activities and groups were isolated to a few catacombs. The Orcs and Savages had been greatly weakened by the constant onslaught of man. They retained but a small portion of the power they once had. The Juka had all but disappeared after the death of Blackthorne. Almost all evidence of the Army of the Sands had disappeared and the prophesized invasion had never come. No enemies threaten the guardians or their holdings and thus the Order had no focus. No longer did the young squires run about the castle tending to their Knights requirements, or studying the arts of war. Possible entrants to the empire had all but dried up. It seemed that the younger generation of the realm had little or no interest in the teachings of an old order. Or the honor and comradely to be found within. Opening the door he walked out upon the entryway. As always standing his lonely guard stood Todd the Sentry. The old warrior looked exhausted, almost as if he could fall at any moment. The late day had turned into night. Steel realized that the ancient sentry had not been relieved in some time Steel felt pride at this old warriors sense of duty, even though no one would have noticed his leave, he continued to remain at his post. Steel slid his hand through his slightly graying hair. Pausing a moment as if to make a choice he placed his helmet on his head and saluted the Sentry. “Although the night is often cold and dark, and brings perhaps things we may not have foreseen…. the morning, it always comes.” “I shall stand with you this night.” “Nin zhah l' draeval, dos inbal natha choice S'argt belbau dosstan xor nindyn dos zhaun lu' ssinssrigg zhal rei lu' l'lonna.” Spoke the voice with expectation in her voice. Steel found himself kneeling in a great throne room of darkness and shadow. Before him, sitting upon a throne of ebony a young female drow elf watched him intently. Steel attempted to meet her gaze but could not. Every time he tried, her eyes burned into his, forcing him to tear away. A slight evil laugh could be heard from the elf. Dhyn solen zhahen naut meant ulu l'inya pholor l' phraktos. Steel bowed his head downward. Stepping down from the throne, the young drow woman approached him. Instantly, Steels mind was beaten with the events of the past week. The desperate search for a cure, the ultimatum on Rico’s life, the capture of the Emperor. Dos inbal natha choice ulu morfeth S'argt, dos shlu'ta dortho wun saving nindyn vel'ussa dos inbal noamuth, jhal l' toll zhah natha obok uss. . Dosst athiyk zhah protected dal uns'aa, tangis' nin 'zil ussta elg'cahl xunden olt i'dol areion dosst khel. Dos z'klaen belbau dosstan ulu uns'aa totally lu' xuileb reserve. Dosst khel Usstan shlu'ta plynn, jhal dosst athiyk zhah vel'bol Usstan lac. Dos kampi'un l' consequences d' vel'bol orn sha'nalt ka dos xun naut qua'l siyo? Steels mind was again buffeted with thoughts of his legion’s torture. The pain,….the blood….the never-ending night. He saw it all as if it was happening Steel, looked up towards the evil goddess, and in that moment stood firm in his gaze with defiance in his eyes. His mind burned as a result, the pain unbearable. “I give myself to you, on the condition that the events you have shown me are not to pass…….” Steel grunted in pain and finally lowered his gaze back to the floor. The evil goddess laughed once more. “Waela dhyn, Usstan iglata naubol byr taga ulu simply drewst ussta influence lu' dortho dal l' events ulu doer.” “Dosst “S'argten” orn inbal ulu deal xuil vel'bol’s zet d' nindel situation nintan.” “Usstan orn inbal vel'bol Usstan lac.” Gently she reached down towards the fallen Guardian and raised him up towards her. “Usstan nin inbal vel'bol Usstan lac.” The Guardians stood over their fallen Senator. The salve they had so desperately sought the reagents to be applied to the letter of the instructions given them. Quietly they spoke among themselves as the healers worked to remove the bandages. What if the cure did not work? What would they do? The Emperor captured, The S.o.W. bedridden, or worse dead. Steels eyes fluttered open…..quietly he looked towards his Guardians with great reverence and respect in his eyes. To each and every one he looked meeting their gaze in turn. As he had seen many of their predecessors come, grow, and then move on. He had watched many of these, the new generation of guardians come, and grow…… “Look towards the leafless trees of Trinsic, There, you shall find what you seek, in the appointed hour. Strength and Honor Guardians. Safe journeys….. And with those final words, Steels eyes fluttered shut, and his last breath rattled from his chest. Finally at peace, but for a single tear rolling down his cheek. They say that in a mans final hour, before his death, the events of his life are replayed to him Perhaps this is true, perhaps not. But in this way, perhaps, a man is judged on that final hour.

Triston, ' I am saddened not only by your loss, but also the fact that someone whom you trusted enough to friend to your home, betrayed you. BoDs, Items, and Gold are usually easily replaced. But trust is not.....

*Steel sits down quickly behind his desk and with shaking hand gathers his quill, scroll, and ink to him* Today Guardians I recieved a most unusualy delivered message of warning. Degahr il'tess dosst fuma, plynn notice d' nindyn dos xal lle'warin. L' sariyan darken lu' form phor dosst qu'ellar, uss orn ulnin tlu missing Uk zhah usst belbau ulu l' orbb valsharess nin Ukt ul'nussten d'lil jiv'elgg lu' jiv'undus ph' linathen ulu udossta haren...siyo..uk orn kla'ath l' valsharess al Roughly translated from the dark tongue this message reads. Trouble awaits your family, seize notice of those you may miss. The clouds darken and form above your house, one will soon be missing. He is mine give to the spider queen now. His cries of the tortue and pain are songs to our ears...yes..he will serve the queen well *Steel once finished softly rubs his hand and squints his eyes in pain. Beside him lies an empty potion vessel, slight bits of orange liquid pooling at the bottom. Softly he begins wrapping his hand in cloth, sealing the wound from the swift poisoned arrow bearing the message.*

*winks* I had sent the link for this post to one person, and one person only. Kaatya, your work is amazing and I had hoped you would step forward. I would be truly pleased and honored if you would take this endeavour. There is no pressure and no hurry on completion as long as some initial chests are set up for storage. I also see that my opinion of your work is echoed by many guardians.

The Legion Treasury Deposit while having had construction completed, requires a skilled individual within the Empire to finish decorating. While a basic concept has been determined (It’s a trade/storage house obviously) the door is pretty much wide open for imaginative ideas and decorum. All required material will be supplied by the Empire. I would attempt such a feat, but, after seeing many of your houses I would be hard pressed to match the general skill and imagination I have seen from the members of this order. Plus while I can still wield a sword quite cleanly, my hand shakes like an old man when trying to properly place the flowerpot on a large stone table *chuckles*

Recently, the guild as a whole has shown interest in procuring and creating a rune library of Home locations. I would like to expand on this idea, and in turn restore an ancient cornerstone of the Empire. In years past, the Guardians had at there disposal, an ancient building deemed the "Launch Tower". This building located near Olympus was used by the Legion to gather and trasport to hotspots within the realm. With the changes in AoS and the arrival of the Malas landmass, the "Launch Tower" was removed from the Olympus Complex and never replaced. In order to rectify this, I would like this weekend to start the first mission in a campaign to aquire runes to key locations within the catacombs of the realms, as well as overworld hotpots, interesting and unusual locations, etc, etc. This will also provide an oppurtunity for all members to start there very own "Rune Library" for their personnel use. All you will need to do is mark a rune as we mark one for the Empire. This Friday the 3rd, at 9PM EST we will gather at Olympus to set out for our first location. The Dungeon known as "Shame." I urge those with an interest in making there own "Rune Library" to bring a empty rune book and some blank rune stones. Im sure those Guardians without the magical ability to Mark, will be able to find another Guardian whom can assist. Strength and Honor, Steel DarKnight S.o.W.

Cultist: “I Know Where Minax Is” Oct 1 2003 12:51PM CST (GMT -06:00) A mysterious figure was recently arrested during investigations into the recent assaults against the city of Moonglow. Although claiming to be a representative of the Council of Mages, it was soon discovered that this person was actually a member of the Shadowlord cult. The ruling council of Britannia has interrogated the cultist, but little information has been revealed to the public at this time. Authorities say that the cultist attempted to gain favor by revealing the time and location of a pivotal congress between Minax and her generals. The council states that they have sent a detachment of the Royal Britannian Guard to reconnoiter this meeting place. Claims from loyal Britannians assert that the Royal Guard has already confronted Minax, and that she and one or more of her generals escaped during the resulting fracas. The ruling council would not comment on these rumors at this time, but have confirmed that warrants have been issued that call for the arrest of Minax and her generals. Citizens are asked to stay tuned to BNN for further updates. Found on UO.com FYI.

*chuckles* I don't believe anyone would suggest using the Honor Wall to stand toe to toe against the DF. In this day and age, Fel Champions, The Gauntlet, and even some are your harder hitting larger foes are less likely to be countered by the Honor Wall. The damage rate changes to speed combat in AoS have required us to relook at our tactics. The Honor Wall is pushed very hard regardless. The reason for this is that it teaches basic group tactics and also tells our vetran members a little about our new recruits and even about some veteran UO players. Crosshealing, working as a unit and not individually, patience and disipline. The willingness to stand and fight to guard your kinsmen. This is what the Honor Wall teaches, and these tactics stay true through any tactic or assualt. Be it two members or twenty. One of my first guides into a new members personality is by there actions when put into the formation of the honor wall. > Do you stand your ground, even when facing death to hold the wall solid. (Good of the many mentality) > Do you chase and break after the enemy, do you fail to follow directions (Maturity and disipline) > As a magi is your first step to cast an offensive, or a curative/defensive spell to assist the front line. ( All of the above) Usually, just from this simple exercise, I can tell whom will move within the ranks and be a true asset to our order. As well as the ones that will dissapear after two weeks of service. Last night, we travelled into Doom and formed the Honor Wall to use our numbers to our advantage. During this hunt, I watched one particuler new member heal his comrades faithfully, and stand his ground when the front wall took some losses. *chuckle* But I stray from the point (And I dont want to give away all my tricks *wink*). In short, the Honor wall has developed into more than a combat tool for me and our order. Do not feel obligated to use the Honor Wall if it is not the best method to succesfully defeat your enemy and reach your goal. Sounds like a good plan and an enjoyable romp Tasselhoff. Unfortunetly my employment obligations will keep me away. Best of Luck to you and those whom attend.

*Nods head* Simply put, we had an excellent pre-existing foundation to build upon. The work of those before us has provided us with the tools to promote and maintain the order. The Codex, These Boards, The lessons and wisdoms gained from previous times, and the foundation of the Olympus compound. Ultimately though, No order can be successful without the support and continued efforts of many sub-leaders in our order. Triston Akroma Earwen Cheblis Kodoz These folks also deserve praise for standing through the tough times, and believing in something greater than themselves. Also, one cannot under appreciate the great effort put forward by Logan, after the initial tough trials he was put through in his succession to the throne. Finally, our membership as a whole, raw recruits to knights, have given us the trust and patience required to move forward. Without that faith, we would be no better off than when we started. Finally The Dark Night is over. But we must push ever forward, less it will return.

Year of the Guardian...*smirks* Congratz Wolf! Seems like many of us are raising newly born children, the other trend is that they are all girls!

You bring up some Valid points Kaatya, luckily most of which have been addressed. The Empire does have a "treasury" location, donated by our emperor, in our Malas City. Several months ago I began work in setting up this home to function as a work shop, resource storage, item storage, and trades center. Unfortunetly, this stalled a bit do to internal changes in the guild, and outside presures. Now that we have rebuilt to an acceptable level I am again requesting we push forward with this endeavour once more. This home, was dedicated entirely to this function and should have storage capacity to hold stock on most common items, as well as raw resources to make more. I will be posting more regarding this issue today. I will be asking those whom are able, to step up and assist.

Since it appears our trade side is growing and becoming a more influencial part of our order, I feel now would be a good time to re review this. Triston, for you in particler since you are the member most assosiated with trade.

...........The virtue of Sacrifice defined as giving of themselves for the good of Sosaria, the Guardians, or their brothers and sisters in arms.

Today, I was approached by the mysterious "Traveler" with a request. The Guardians of Honor have been called to action. Following is script of the conversation. Traveler - Greetings. Steel - Hail and well met, Traveler. Traveler - Would you pass a message to PGoH for me? Steel - Aye sir, I would be honored. Traveler - Today at 2Pm Eastern the trial of sacrifice will be held until 3PM. Traveler - The award ceremony will be held at 3:15 EST in Town Square Traveler - Maginica, Tram Traveler - I am giving away my Royal guard sash. Traveler - To the person whom fins the virtuos path of sacrifice Traveler - Emperor Logan knows me well and can vouch for my name. Steel - *nods* Aye, many of us seek the HONOR of being part of the Royal Guard. I shall alert my order. Traveler - No help will be given, anyone can win, all one has to do is find the virtuos path of Sacrifice. A test of the virtues that the Guardians know well. Steel - Interesting indeed. Steel - Yes sir, we know such paths well. Steel - The Guardians shall attend. Traveler - Thank you Steel - Thank you sir for your gracious invite. Traveler - Strength and Honor Steel - Strength and Honor Today, I call the Guardians to action. Please report to Olympus at 1:30 pm est to prepare for departure. Strength and Honor Steel DarKnight S.o.W.