Temporary Article Backup (Freeborn Press Archives)

[WarderDragon]

Here are a number of entries from the Freeborn Press News Archives, related to the Kingdom of Dawn:

Martial Law Declared In Dawn
by Nobody
January 18, 2001

Gentle Ladies and Lords of the Realm,

There is a plot afoot within the Royal Court to overthrow the Crown. One of the ringleaders, Lady Arrianna, has been taken into custody. The other ringleader, Countess Vixen, is yet at large. At this time, it is unknown who the other conspirators are, although it is known that members of the knighthood and the mystic order are among them.

Vixen continues to attempt to gain supporters under the pretense of some "mental instability" which is supposedly affecting me as a result of a bracelet given to me by the late Na-Krul of the Dark Tower. And yet here I stand, having broken no laws of Dawn, but having been attacked by Vixen and her cronies without provocation on three separate occasions this eve. And if this so-called "madness" is truly the reason for her treasonous acts, why then does she turn against her queen as well? This business with the bracelet is but a smokescreen to hide her true purpose...to overthrow the crown and seize control of the kingdom.

A state of martial law is hereby declared in Dawn. Countess Vixen is to be considered "kill on sight" as an enemy of the realm until further notice. Citizens are to remain indoors and obey any curfews set by the Royal Guard. Until the conspirators are identified and this rebellion brought low, take caution.

The Queen and I continue to rule the realm from an hidden location. In the coming days I shall gather those who remain loyal to their king and queen that we may root out these mutineers and reclaim the palace.

Desmond Cross, King of Dawn

From the Journal of Brother Antos
by Thellaren
January 20, 2001

The following was taken from the Dawn Town Cryer:

From the Journal of Brother Antos, Arch Bishop of Dawn:
The realm is in an awful state. King Desmond, Queen Hayloh, and young Prince Riain live in exile, unable to return to Dawn for fear of their very lives. Those who remain in Dawn have split into three factions...those still loyal to the King (mostly made up of the Knights of the Order of the Blue Rose); those who follow the Royal Court (currently led by Duchess Wildstar and Countess Vixen), who believe that King Desmond is under some spell of the Dark Tower; and the Royal Guard, who appear to be preparing a military takeover of the kingdom. Yet none of them know the truth, nor will they listen!

I am one of the last of the original citizens of Dawn. These ancient eyes saw the building of Dawn and its sister city Wind, and the rise and fall of Exodus, over 300 years ago. Time moved differently in the Ethereal Void; some say it moved not at all. So when Dawn's magical experiments saw our realm trapped in the Void, time stood still for us for 3 centuries.

But we were not immortal. For once Desmond Cross of the Guardians of Virtue found the Blackrock Orb and freed us from our timeless prison, the years began to catch up with us at an accelerated rate. The Dawn Council of Elders, one by one, passed from this life, and now only I retain their secrets.

The Council of Elders, in their wisdom, knew that Desmond Cross was the Warrior Poet of ancient prophecy, he who was destined to one day lead Dawn to victory during its darkest hour. And so, they chose Desmond, a humble bard, to be the first King of Dawn. But they chose him for another task as well, one not even known to Desmond himself.

For you see, Dawn was a city of magic, magic that permated its very soil; magic fueled by the undying love of its citizens, and brought to razor-sharp focus within its rulers, the Council of Elders. But when Dawn was freed, and the Council began to wither and fade, it was feared that the magic that was Dawn might be lost forever.

And so, when Desmond was made king, the Dawn Council of Elders passed their portion of the Ether to him, and a mystical bond was formed between he, his land, and his people...an unending circle, a whole stronger than the sum of its parts.

I was tasked by the Council to one day reveal this sacred bond to King Desmond, that he might in turn one day pass the magic to young Prince Riain. But now it seems as if that day may never be.

Dawn has suffered too many blows as of late. When Lord British and his mages cast the spell that tore Trammel from Felucca, and handed Felucca to Minax, the land itself screamed in aguish; Desmond grew terribly ill, forced to rest in seclusion for months. And yet, Dawn remained, its magic weakened but restrengthened by the love of its people. But now...now...

Whatever evil that infects King Desmond is now beginning to affect, to a lesser degree, the citizenry. The hatred, the bloodlust, the thirst for power grows like a cancer, and is reaching a fever pitch. Chaos reigns in Dawn this day, and those who would murder their king in their madness don't even realize that doing so would be to kill themselves as well...for if the Bond is severed at any link, the kingdom itself shall surely die.

I have delivered this news to both Lady Wildstar and the Dawn Royal Guard, but both factions ready for war. Even now, King Desmond masses an army to march on Dawn, and I fear the three factions are about to collide in a war that may very well rip the kingdom apart.

I must continue in my efforts. I must make them see!

Brother Antos
Arch Bishop of Dawn

Ultimatum
by Thellaren
January 20, 2001

The following was also relayed from the Dawn Town Cryer on the evening of the 20th:

Lord HellRazor, escorted by two Loyalists, arrived at Dawn Tower earlier today, delivering a message to the Royal Court and the Royal Guard from King Desmond. Duchess Wildstar accepted the parchment, which read:
Traitors of Dawn:

Thrice have I attempted to reason with thee, and thrice have you sought my life. Therefore the time for talk is over.

Thou and thy ilk have seven days hence to leave Dawn in peace, never to return. After that time, my army shall march upon Dawn, and all those who remain will swear fealty to the crown or die. This I swear.

Death to all conspirators and traitors of Dawn!

Desmond Cross
(Affixed with the Royal Seal)

The Battle For Dawn (Felucca)
by Hazard [EiC]
January 22, 2001

The following OOC message from King Desmond of Dawn was relayed to the Dawn Town Cryer earlier yesterday:

There will be a consentual PvP (player vs. player) event in Dawn from 8:30pm PST until 11pm PST on the evening of Friday, January 26th, as part of the current revolution quest. This event is 100% voluntary. Those who do not wish to participate should not enter Dawn during those hours next Friday.

There will be a few war declarations made between Dawn and other participating guilds this week. Do NOT attack anyone orange to you until the event Friday night, as the war declarations are SOLELY for Friday night's event so everyone can fight without being concerned about murder counts. So far, the following guilds will likely be involved:

Dawn
Savage Truth
Fairhaven Village
The Dark Tower

Rules for the Event:

1. You must be on one of the guildstones mentioned above to participate. Anyone else is subject to receiving murder counts.

2. There will be 3 sides competing for control of Dawn Tower. In order to identify who is on what side, those supporting King Desmond should wear all black; those supporting the Royal Court should wear all blue; those supporting the Royal Guard should wear all red.

3. Once you are killed, you are out of the battle. You can retrieve your stuff from your corpse, but leave your death robe on and do not return to the battle or assist anyone in any way.

4. There is NO LOOTING. However, also do not bring anything you can't afford to lose, as we can't control everyone's actions.

5. Do not come if you are concerned about losing fame or karma.

6. The group that is in control of Dawn Tower at 10pm PST wins. After 11pm PST the battle will be considered over and war declarations will be canceled.

7. The revolution quest will then conclude on Saturday evening.

Hope everyone has fun!

Desmond Cross

Interview Tonight with the Royal Family of Dawn
by Nobody
January 24, 2001

Interview tonight with Royal Family of Dawn
News Flash! The Freeborn Press has been granted a last-minute interview with King Desmond Cross, the rule-in-exile of the Kingdom of Dawn, and his royal family.

King Desmond's realm is being torn apart from within, with Dawn currently in the heart of a violent state of political upheaval. The royal family has come under fire from a faction of former allies, and the once-loyal royal guards take a stand against both groups. All the action is threatening to come to an explosive head this Friday evening, as all three divisions and will meet in what many feel is a "winner take all" war.

The interview with the royals of Dawn will begin tonight (Wednesday, June 24th), at 7:45pm PST, in a secret location. However, we will be broadcasting the interview live--via communication crystal--to four public locations:

• The Dawn Mage Tower, on Felucca
  
• The Avalon Town Hall, on Felucca
  
• The Dark Tower, on Felucca
  
• The Baja Mage Tower, on Felucca
  
• The Golden Brew, on Trammel
  

Anyone and everyone is invited to come and listen to the interview of three of the most pivitol characters currently on Ultima Online's Baja Shard, as conducted by Hazard (Editor-in-Chief of the Freeborn Press) and Nathan Harper (Emissary of the Freeborn).

Freeborn Press Interviews Royal Family of Dawn
by Nobody
January 25, 2001

Tonight, Baja�s Freeborn Press enjoyed the rare opportunity to interview the royal family of the Kingdom of Dawn. King Desmond, Queen Hayloh, and their son, Prince Riain are three of our Shard�s most prominant citizens, a fact especially true currently thanks to the recent events & role-playing which Dawn has been promoting.

Dawn, located East of the Dungeon Wrong on Felucca, is one of the oldest player-cities on Baja. The Kingdom of Dawn is host to several guildstones for its members�including one for guards and another for merchants�and their citizens� guildstone boasts Baja�s highest number of veteran members at 137, with a total membership at 167.

Dawn�s most recent activities�involving dissent in the kingdom and threats against the royal family�promise to come to a violent head this Friday, and two of our staff met with the royals to find out the facts on these latest happenings. A last-minute interview began tonight at 7:45pm PST in the current Freeborn Pressroom, near the Shrine of Justice. Although the interview was conducted in secret, to maintain the safety of the royal family, communication crystals were set-up to broadcast the conversation across Sosaria, into the Dawn Mage Tower, the Avalon Town Hall, the Baja Mage Tower, the Dark Tower, and the Golden Brew.

The complete transcript of the interview session, along with several paintings of the session, can be found on the Freeborn Press message board, here. The Freeborn Press hopes to conduct similar interviews with various prominant members of the Baja community in the near future, each one broadcast across the Shard in a similar manner to tonight.

Prelude
by Nobody
January 25, 2001

The wind howled through the empty streets of Dawn. The citizenry huddled behind their barred doors, fearful to step outside in violation of the mad "curfew" established by the Royal Guard. One such citizen had already done so, and his head was placed upon a pike in the center of town as a warning to any others who dared to challenge their will.

The streets, the shops, even Merchant Square and the vendor mall, were empty...only the Royal Guards could be seen, riding back and forth throughout the kingdom on their endless patrols. It seemed they never rested. St. Michael and War Child rode toward Dawn Tower together, canvassed in steel and weapons at the ready. The doors were barred. War Child moved as to bash the door in, but St. Michael bade him to hold. "It will be ours soon enough," he said, a grim smile crossing his face. "At this time tomorrow, Dawn will be ours...!"

***

Inside the Tower, the Royal Court and their soldiers drafted their strategy against the dual threat of the guards and the King's Army by candlelight. Lady Wildstar's face, normally bright and happy, was sullen and grim. How would she be able to abduct the king, that he could be returned to normal and assume the crown once more? Surely he would be well guarded; and the streets promised to be rife with war and chaos. She knew not the answers; but she knew that if they did not succeed in their task, if the Royal Court fell to either the Guard or the King's army, that Dawn was surely doomed. Tomorrow would tell the tale...

***

King Desmond sat at the fire, sharpening his spear over and over again, as Hayloh watched in concern and fear. Were his eyes truly red? Nay, how could such a thing be possible, it had to be an optical illusion caused by the fireplace nearby...

...and yet, there were other changes as well...a dark aura surrounded Desmond, something that could not be seen, or smelt, or touched, but it was there. And although this was her husband, the man she had married, yet in some way she could not descibe, it was not...it was as if something else had been overlayed on top of him, something transparent and evil...

Outside, Lord HellRazor continued his grave task of gathering the King's soldiers and going over the battle plans. And as the hours ticked by, a strangely eerie smile began to cross Desmond's face.

Tomorrow it would be at an end, Desmond thought.

Tomorrow, the traitors and conspirators will stain the fields of Dawn red with their blood.

Tomorrow, Dawn will once again belong to...

...I, Na-Kr...

Desmond paused, momentarily confused. Did he almost say Na-Krul? All this preparation for battle must have had him momentarily distracted.

He returned to sharpening his sword, and the smile once again danced over his lips.

Hayloh wept.

War in Dawn
by Nobody
January 27, 2001

It was time.

King Desmond's army stood before him, clad in jet black, a strange assortment of knights and warriors of Dawn, citizens of the Village of Fairhaven, and members of the dreaded Dark Tower. Many nervous and hateful glances were exchanged between the Dawnites and those of the Tower...for they had long been enemies...but dire times called for dire measures, and despite the involvement of the Dark Tower, still these soldiers of Dawn stood by their King.

Of course, Desmond was scantly recognizeable as their ruler, for his hair had gone from light brown to jet black in the hours before the battle. And his eyes...his eyes were like 2 blazing pits from hell, red and piercing.

Desmond smiled. He had received word scant hours earlier that a message had been dispatched to the Royal Guard from the Lord General urging them to join forces with the Royal Court. Apparently some of the guards, including the ringleaders who were organizing the military takeover of Dawn, had fled during the night. So, they think their chances will be better if they join forces against me, Desmond thought.

Fools.

Mistress Ivy of the Dark Tower approached Desmond. "I take my leave of you now...I leave my children in your care," Ivy said, gesturing to the Dark Tower soldiers.

"Aye, they will serve the Tow...er, they will serve Dawn well," Desmond replied.

Ivy laughed. "Correct on both counts," she said as she walked away.

Desmond turned back to his soldiers, looking his forces over. "Patriots of Dawn, today shall be a glorious day," he said, "for today we free our kingdom from the traitors and usurpers who have siezed out homeland! DEATH TO ALL TRAITORS!"

"DEATH TO ALL TRAITORS!", the soldiers cried out in reply.

"Mystics, practice your art...open the moongates!"

***

Multiple blue moongates shimmered deep in Southern Dawn, and Desmond's army flooded out of them into the forest. Silently, Desmond led the soldiers northward.

The first skirmish occured scant minutes later, as Desmond's forces stumbled upon an enemy patrol. Desmond recognized their guild insignia...they were from the fabled Savage Truth guild. So, the Royal Court had turned to their old friends and allies for support...as much good as it would do them, Desmond thought.

In moments, his forces were upon them.

The paladins of the Savage Truth were taken by suprise, and overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of Desmond's forces...but still, they battled on, their swords slashing, seemingly everywhere at once. The bodies of dozens of men lay strewn about them. But then, after what seemed an eternity, the legendary Lord Falwyn fell, lost in a swarm of black...and the hero Tibereous was lost not long after.

Desmond's army moved on.



Approaching the center of the Kingdom and Dawn Tower, Desmond found his forces set upon by wave upon wave of Royal Court soldiers, including more Savage Truth members. The Royal Court, rather than facing Desmond's army en masse, decided to split into several smaller groups. However, the strategy worked against them, as it allowed Desmond's numerically inferior force to beat down the smaller individual groups. Still, the Royal Court's numbers seemed to be unending...until finally, the last of them fell to the blood-stained ground.

Desmond gazed about himself. They, too, had taken heavy casualties...but the battle was done. Once again was he Dawn's one true leige and lord!

Suddenly, a lone soldier rode towards Desmond through the mist. As he drew closer, King Desmond recognized him. It was none other than Sir Malchar, Grand Magistry of the Blue Rose, Dawn's Knighted order. However, Malchar wore niether the black uniform of Desmond's army, nor the blue of the Royal Court, or the red of the guards. Malchar took no sides in the battle, refusing to fight against his countrymen.

"Like a true coward," Desmond smirked.

One of the Dark Tower soldiers unsheathed his sword. "Sire, should I..."

"No," Desmond replied. "Let him come. He is harmless."

Malchar approached. "Desmond, you must stop this madness," he pleaded. "The bracelet is controlling you...please, my liege, come with me that we may find a way to cure you of this evil!"

Desmond only laughed. "You poor fool," he said. "What makes you think I want your cure?" He turned to one of his soldiers to give the order to have Malchar killed.

Suddenly, the defeated ladies Wildstar and Vixen of the Royal Court cried out, almost in unison, "Now!"

With a loud whine, a moongate appeared out of nowhere next to Desmond and Malchar. Malchar grabbed Desmond, and they both fell into the gate. A few of Desmond's soldiers lunged after him, but it was too late; the gate had vanished.

"The King has been abducted!" someone cried out.

"Aye, just as we planned," Lady Wildstar said. Vixen nodded in agreement.

Puzzled, Desmond's army slowly began the task of gathering the prisoners and tending to the dead and wounded. They now controlled Dawn...but still was Dawn without a king.

Return of the King
by Nobody
January 29, 2001

Arrianna stood on the roof of the Mage Tower in Dawn. She waited for the rest. Desmond was to be brought to her, and many were relying on her to exorcise that which seemed to be possessing the King. She was nervous, to say the least. She considered herself a simple student of the virtues, not a leader of them. Oh how she wished Arakthor was here! He would know exactly what to do! Instead, it was up to her, and many hours of study she had devoted to understanding and mastering the ritual needed to drive the spirit from Desmond. But one slip, one mistake, and the results could be catastrophous.

Will Avengem entered the arena on the roof. Behind him was Queen Hayloh, who was comforting a distraught and angry Desmond, his wrists and ankles in shackles. A tear formed in Arrianna's eyes to see her King in this manner. But she had herself asked for these precautions. His life and hers were at stake. She wished it wasnt necessary, and would gladly forfeit her life for his, if it were that simple. But it was not.

Behind the King, came Opalescense, Quest Knight of the Virtue Compassion. Followed by Vengence, historian and long time friend of the King. And then Kryn Garamonde, also a Quest knight of the virtue Justice, as well as squire in the Order of the Blue Rose, in the Kingdom of Dawn.

She offered them each a smile as they moved to surround Desmond in a circle. Arrianna directed them to each stand at a specific point. Arrianna herself stood as the one of faith, her back to the north. Opal, one of purity and innocence, her back to the south. To her right was Kryn, one of strength in will and body, his back to the west. And Vengence, one of wisdom and knowledge, his back to the east.

Queen Hayloh and the Prince Riain looked on with others of the Kingdom, and friends, as Will Avengem took up a guard position to make sure none interrupted the ritual. Arrianna raised her voice to proceed, hoping to gain confidence from the strength of her musical voice.

She began the weaving of the spell, by reciting the meaning of the virtues, their place in this world, and more still, their place in King Desmond. Desmond shrieked with rage, calling to those watching to aid him, proclaiming that Arrianna was the one possessed. Possessed by Na-Krul. But she wavered not. The spells power infused King Desmonds body with raw energy derived of the virtues themselves. Culminated from the principles of Love, Truth and Courage. The spirit waned and struggled to free itself from the pure virtuous magics. But it lay trapped within Desmond with only one escape...the bracelet from wence it came.

*Arrianna continued, as Vengence added his words, recalling the counts of Desmonds life. Of his wife and dear child. Of the kingdom that loves him dearly. Desmond, the true Desmond began to stir from within. The spirit was enraged and cornered. It was then, that Arrianna directed Opal to make contact with Desmond. The touch of skin allowing the spirit a new host to flee too. And so it did, but too late did it realize its mistake. For Opal was one of purity. her body, mind and soul, uncorrupt, and worse for the spirit, uncorruptable. There was naught to control within. A body of pure goodness. The spirit was enraged further. Opal was stunned, as she tried to block out the whispers of evil intent the spirit threw desperately at her. But it would avail him not at all. For the spirit was dying, and Opal was too pure.

Again, Arrianna directed, Kryn this time, to make contact with Opal. Once more allowing the spirit an escape. This time to a body that was not pure, so it was inviting to the spirit, and thus was taken. Once inside, Arrianna entered Kyrns mind, telling him how to harness the strength of his mind and the power of her words, to separate from the spirit, that which was Desmond.

Putting the evil in one orb of blackness, the good into one of pure bluish light. One belonged to the spirit of the demon, the other, was a part of Desmond that must be returned. For if a part of Desmond were to die, so to would part of the land.

Kyrn bellowed in anguish, the task at hand was testing the boundaries of his physical and mental strength. Many watched silently, others prayed for him to outlast. The Queen and Prince watched in horror and hope, as Arrianna continued. As both orbs of dark and light were beginning to wane. As a candle flickers in strong light, Arrianna held forth the bracelet, as she slipped it from Desmonds wrist. The spirit fled to the one place it was safe from the magics Arrianna and the rest had conjured to vanquish it. Into the bracelet. She then took Kryn's hand in hers, accepting the light into her, that she could bless it, and mold it back into shape and form that Desmonds weakened body could accept. She then moved to Desmond, taking his hands in hers, staggering under the taxing spell, she transferred the light into Desmond.

A hush reigned at this moment, and all eyes were on Desmond. Had they been successful? Did the spell work? Or were they wrong all along?

Desmond finally broke the silence, asking where he was. His memory of all that had transpired since Na-Kruls resurrection was a void of nothingness. Vengence replied that he was in Dawn, among friends. Asking the King who was his wife, Desmond replied to his old friend, "Hayloh, of course!"

A sigh of relief erupted from the crowd of concerned citizens and friends, as they took this as a positive sign. Arrianna collapsed back into a chair, exhausted from the spell, smiling softly as her King was returned. Rejoicing and celebration went long into the night at the Acropolis, and peace reigned once more in the Kingdom.

Expansions in the Kingdom of Dawn! (Felucca)
by Thellaren
February 6, 2001

The Kingdom of Dawn Town Cryer was recently heard relaying the following message from Vengence:

Citizens and Friends of Dawn, I call for your aid!

As the days roll by, Dawn's anniversary is fast approaching, and new expansions begin to take shape... the new Dawn Library (the largest player-run library on Baja) has been relocated, and will soon be open once more... the Dawn Center for the Arts (including a newer, larger version of the Royal Stage) is in the planning stages... and most importantly, the amazing Dawn Museum of Dreams, a project that has long been in the works for our fair city, will soon become a reality.

But we cannot do it without your help!

The Dawn Museum of Dreams, destined to become a huge display of wonderous and rare items found throughout Sosaria, is looking for donations and aid of all types, in order to meet its goal of holding its Grand Opening during Dawn's Anniversary. All people donating to the Museum in any form will be celebrated and thanked in a special Book of Dreamers, noting everyone who made the Museum a reality, to be seen for all time!

Rare items in all forms, of course, are some of our most welcome and needed donations. Displays will note the person donating each item, so that all may know of their generous spirit. Gold donations (or donations of rare items we already have, that will be used for barter) are also extremely welcome, so that we might purchase more items for display from some of Baja's most noted merchants.

But perhaps you are a simple craftsman, merchant, warrior, or miner? Your trade is needed, as well! Special "fundraiser" vendors will be established in the Dawn Vendor Mall, selling wares and items of all kinds at discounted rates, with all proceeds going to the Dawn Museum of Dreams! But we cannot stock our fundraising vendors without your donations!

Anyone wishing to aid in this very special project should contact Vengence either via ICQ at #52681516, or via e-mail at [e-mail] to arrange a pickup of your items.

Thank you for your help!

Vengence, Curator

Kingdom of Dawn Anniversary Celebration
by Nobody
February 12, 2001

The following announcement was posted to the Kingdom of Dawn Town Cryer page:

Kingdom of Dawn Anniversary Celebration

A series of events will be held throughout the week to celebrate the Kingdom of Dawn entering its third year as a player-run community! The Citizens of Sosaria near and far are invited to join us in our festivities! A map showing Dawn's location can be found here, and a map of Dawn itself can be found here. There is also a runebook of Dawn locations inside the Dawn Embassy in Ocllo, a small house right next to Ocllo Bank in Felucca.

The schedule of events:

Wednesday, February 14th: Valentines Day marks the wedding anniversary of King Desmond and Queen Hayloh! At 8pm PST on the 14th, they will renew their wedding vows during a special ceremony to be held at Dawn Tower. Food and drink will be provided at a reception to be held at the Acropolis Tavern and Winery in Dawn immediately after the ceremony!

Thursday, February 15th: The grand re-opening of the Dawn Library at its new, more convenient location south of Dawn Tower! The Dawn Library is the largest collection of player-created books on the shard! Library staff will be on hand from 8pm PST to 9pm PST to answer your questions or to accept contributions of new books to add to our ever-growing collection.

Friday, February 16th: The First Dawn Open House will be held! Our goal during the Open House is to introduce interested persons to our community. Representatives of Dawn will be available between 7pm and 9pm PST to provide you transportation to and from Dawn, answer questions, give you a personalized tour, and to give you free runes! If you'd like to discover what Dawn is all about, either show up at Dawn Tower, or contact King Desmond at ICQ 6036303 to arrange for transportation, between 7pm and 9pm on Friday!

Saturday, February 17th: The First Dawn Tournament of Roses will be held at Dawn Tower! Test your mettle in one of three different matches: 1 vs. 1 Joust (both fighters on horseback), 1 vs. 1 Melee, and 1 vs. 1 Magery!The rules for the tournament are:
Contestents will flag grey before combat begins

- No magic weapons or armor
- No looting
- No tamed animals
- No poisoned weapons
- Persons entering the Joust event must supply their own horse
- Maximum 15 minutes per bout. If there is no winner in 15 minutes, the King and Queen will decide the winner

Each match will have a 50k first prize and a 25k second prize!

Pre-registration is requested. To register, contact King Desmond at ICQ 6036303, or by email. Be sure to tell us which event(s) you wish to register for.

Sunday, February 18th: Arrianna will host another of her world famous Fashion Shows! Come see the latest in Sosarian fashion designs, using the latest in leather and clothes dying technology! The event will begin at 7pm PST at Dawn Tower!

Monday, February 19th: The long-awaited Dawn Museum of Dreams will finally open its doors this Monday! Over a year in the making, with dozens of beneficiaries and contributors, the Dawn Museum of Dreams will be the shard's largest public collection of odd, rare, and unique items, along with descriptions of the items and their origins! Thanks to the efforts of Lord Vengence, one of Baja's formost scholars, the Museum of Dreams will come to life on the 19th! There will be a short ribbon-cutting ceremony at 8pm PST, and then the doors will be open to the public!

We hope you will join us during some or all of our planned events, we will be happy to see you here!!

Dawn Anniversary Celebration! (Felucca)
by Thellaren
February 20, 2001

The Kingdom of Dawn was busy this week, citizens immersed in helping with various openings and ceremonies. One of the events that we heard about was the reaffirmation of the wedding vows of Queen Hayloh and King Desmond. Also citizens of Dawn were helping Vengence get a yearlong highly publicized project open to the public, clearly a landmark occasion to befit Dawn�s Anniversary party!

The Royal Affirmation of Wedding Vows between Hayloh and Desmond occurred on Wednesday February 14th, Valentines Day! This was held at the Dawn Tower, atop the roof. Dawn citizen Shadomir made several paintings of the event and bound them together in an album. You can view this entire wedding album at the following location.

Last night (Monday evening), this editor arrived at Dawn's seaside Museum of Dreams, the newest addition to Dawn�s wealth of community. The tower was a project long in the making, saved from destruction at one point by an Implementor by the name of Llano. You can read about this particular story at the Museum itself.

Vengence, the curator of the Museum, showed me the entire grounds, giving me a tour of �The Treasures of the Implementors�, �The Ethereal Chamber�, �The Royal Kitchen�, �The Armory & Workshop�, �The Slaughterhouse�, and �Oceania�. For me it was a grand journey, several items bringing back memories from the past and times when �...us old folks couldn�t boot people out of our house, we had to use force.� Anyway, it was a memorable visit and we highly recommend it to everyone. The place is very thoughtfully set up with unique eye candy on every floor and the hospitality was definitely worth mentioning.

To visit the Kingdom of Dawn, consult the map on the following piece of parchment.

New Orc Agression, a New Threat
by Thellaren
February 23, 2001

The following was heard relayed from the Kingdom of Dawn's Town Cryer:

Lady Shadomir called the knights and warriors of Dawn together last night, as she was ambushed in Dawn by an Orc War Party. Intent on making sure the Orcs understood that any agression into Dawn would be met with harsh and severe justice, she rallied the forces of Dawn and lead an assault on the Delucia Orc Fort.

The battle raged and many orcs lay fallen at the Dawnites feet. But then Draithnokk, a lich emerged from the fort. He descended on Cleopatra, one of the groups mages, attempting to vanquish the Dawnites by eliminating their magic.

The lich was felled, but the battle had taken its toll on the Dawn forces. They retreated after counting nearly a hundred orcs slain.

Investigations are being launched into the Liches presence amongst the Orcs. Has a new threat arisen to challenge the Kingdom of Dawn. To challenge the last light of Felucca's darkness?

Arrianna

A Plea to the Seers and Implementors
by Thellaren
March 22, 2001

This recent message was seen posted by King Desmond of Dawn:

A recent magical event, known by some as a "patch", caused our loyal and friendly Town Cryer to vanish. It has been several weeks since her disappearance, and we fear for her safety and well being. We pray to the Seers and Implementors of the shard for her safe return to our kingdom, for she has long served as a source of news from far-off Britain and is sorely missed! Rumour has it that the Town Cryer assigned in nearby Avalon has also disappeared, and we hope that whatever has caused this will soon be resolved and that our Town Cryers will soon be returned to their homes.

Desmond Cross

Once Returned
by Thellaren
March 22, 2001

This interesting account was recently discovered on the Kingdom of Dawn Public Forum:

His hand glides slowly over a smooth mahagony desk. His steel grey eyes float about the mages tutorium. Desks and bookshelfs lined up in rows. Much like he remembered. But then, how long had it been? His memory was coming back, but there still remained a great many holes within it. Apon entering the kingdom with Queen Hayloh and her escort last night, he had noticed several new buildings. Signs of prosperity and growth. He smiled on this thought. In this bleak chaos stricken world, at least one glimmer of hope remained true.

He turned from the mages tutorium and headed down stairs, offering a candid smile to those he passed by. He didnt remember many of their names, and they seemed quite in awe of him. This brought a blush to his face. This kingdom had once taken him in, placing faith in a questing knight of the virtues. Heralding to his call in the name of them. As with most, they were not truly virtuous. But then, was anyone? Nay, but like himself, what separated them from the others, was their steadfast devotion to strive for them. To make light in a dark world. He held great admiration for the King who stood in Lord British's shadow. Lord British had built an empire and tried to bind them to the virtues. King Desmond had created a small kingdom, where they embraced the virtues. That was the difference.

His memory recalled when Lord British abandoned this land. Fled to a new facet of the shards, leaving many behind toi suffer at Minax's hand. He had gone to the King, to ask that they not flee as well, and stand with him against the tides of darkness. And he did so. In Trinsic, the allied forces had rallied with the Knights of Dawn and engaged Juo'nar to the bitter end. A proud moment indeed in this Kingdom's history.

He remembered sitting with the King and Queen, negotiating for peace with an angry Orcen tribe. Other cities and fiefdoms criticized King Desmond for doing so. Yet the virtues teach not to hate, but to trust and befriend. At great risk to his people and at great loss of respect from neutral nations, they stood by the virtues, and they shown the way.

He smiled as he thought on last night. Meeting Wraith again was interesting. Once a quest knight himself, he wondered what had become of that knighthood. When he had left, they had partitioned themselves suscinctly to their individual virtues and by doing so, unknowingly abandoning them. He recalled his decision to leave them. For he felt they leaned on him as one would a crutch. No longer would they strive to be virtuous, so long as he was there to embody it for them. He had left that they may find the true meaning of the virtues and tarry not over which virtue emblazoned their knight's pin. That was a sad day, and he had only himself to blame. He had failed them. Failed to empower them with the virtues as had been his intention.

Casting aside sad thoughts, he sat before several books and opened one. He was home now. And he had many to thank for it. Arrianna's great sacrifice in bringing him back. Further, for finding a way to make such possible. Queen Hayloh's unending support of his silly quests. Not many would believe in him so trustingly. It was time to restore the virtues, and so many quests left undone. He would embark on those quests again, to bring the relics of the virtues back to this one nation that would stand in defense of the virtues.

The King & Queens Champion Chosen in Dawn
by Nobody
May 7, 2001

The town cryer of the Kingdom of Dawn recently made the following announcement for King Desmond Cross:

New King and Queen Champions Chosen

Last night in the fabled Star Room deep in the heart of the Terethan Keep, the monthly tournament was held to select the King and Queen's Champions. Will Avengem, as normal, hosted the event.

After many valiant bouts between combatants, Eagle once again won the right to bear the title "King's Champion", defeating even War Child, who voluntarily relinquished his "Queen's Champion" title to compete.

The battle for the right to be the Queen's Champion came down to a duel between Caesar and War Child. After a long and grueling battle, War Child accidentally crossed the teleporter into the Terethan Keep, normally an instant disqualification! Although Caesar offered to continue the battle, War Child declined. Thus, Caesar was chosen as the new Queen's champion!

Geldric Falko was also knighted by the King for his valiant efforts in the competition.

Well met to the new Champions, and our thanks for all who competed and participated!

Kingdom of Dawn to Raid Occlo
by Nobody
July 24, 2001

The following from Lord Will Avengem was recently posted by Cymidei Fier to UO Stratics:

Kingdom of Dawn to Raid Occlo

News of the recent Savage advances and a brief encounter with the Savage General have prompted the great Kingdom of Dawn to raid Occlo and dispatch its captors. With hope, the savage general will present himself and brought to justice!

Our first attack will commence at 7pm PST on July 22... Any support is welcome, but the general must be taken alive if there is to be any chance of revealing the source of the savage campaigns.

Safe Travels,
Lord Will Avengem

Execution of the Savage General (Trammel)
Thellaren
August 1, 2001

Recently Lord Will Avegem announced the following news relating to Dawn:

Dawn's successful raid on Occlo culminated with the capture of the savages' principal leader, the savage general. As of yet, he awaits trial for "crimes against humanity" in the Kingdom of Dawn's Prison. Since the motives of the savages and their reasons for holding Occlo are still uncertain, the citizens of Brittania will have the opportunity to observe and participate in the interogation of the general. The general will be relocated to Lord British's castle, where the trial and interogation will commence.

The savage general will be interogated this Sunday (7/29) at 8pm PST in Lord British's castle (trammel). If found guilty for "crimes against humanity" by the citizens of Britania, the general will receive a sentence of death and public execution in Brittain's square.

On the night of the execution, Baja citizen Kraagon made the following painting of the event which transpired. According to his brief report, many citizens gathered at Lord Britishes castle waiting for the trial to take place.

The savage general was then brought forth from where he was being held, in the guard tower next to the Britain Bank. Questions were then exercised in the throneroom, and apparently the general was found guilty, for his dead body was later found by the painter on the guard tower roof.

If further information is available, feel free to send it to us here at the Press.

Ominous News from the Savage General
by Thellaren
August 1, 2001

Here is more of an official slant from the Dawn Forums about the Savage General event mentioned earlier today:

The citizens of Brittania sentenced the savaged general to die for "crimes against humanity." The general was burnt at the stake Sunday night at the Guard Tower near the First Bank of Britain (Trammel) following a careful interogation and trial held at Lord British's Castle.

During the questioning of the general at the Dawn Guard's Prison(Felucca), the history and plans of the savages were revealed to members of Dawn leadership. According to the general, the savages plan to "open the gate for the coming of 'her'" and Occlo is the stage. Dawn scholars are currently examining texts to discern what "her" pertains to. Contemporary theorists believe it is the prophecy of the coming of Minax, who will one day walk upon the earth as man. Members of the recently formed Drow Faction in Dawn, however, pose a different view; the coming of Lloth and the destruction of the Driders.

Lord Will Avengem

FCB Ferryboats Ready to Depart! (Global Baja)
by Thellaren
August 29, 2001

Have you ever wondered who was banging on that awful lute across the channel from your home? Ever needed a boat on hand to take out fishing or to actually sail to the mainland from Skara Brae?

If so read on�.

The Fisherman�s Council of Baja is proud to announce a unique and entirely free service for the entire Shard of Baja. The Baja council, under the tutelage of fleet captains Foofisher & Lonestar, have commissioned the launch of seven ferryboats in various areas of our land.

These ferryboats can be used by any citizen of Baja and taken out on fishing expeditions, treasure hunts, or to just simply cross a small channel of water. The sides will be left unlocked and one of our Boatswains will bring the boat back to its home port if it strays too far off course.

You will be able to find the Ferryboats in the following locales across the facets:

TRAMMEL

• Magincia Docks
  
• Skara Brae Docks
  
• Britain Docks
  
• Moonglow Harbor Docks
  

FELUCCA

• Baja Mage Tower (near Moonglow)
  
• City of Avalon (western side)
  
• Kingdom of Dawn (small narrow peninsula)
  

If you would like to find out more about the FCB, please ICQ Foofisher @ 42314161 , Lonestar @ 54512593 or visit our vendor filled Guildhouse on Trammel (N of Minoc) @ 129 59�N � 83 2�E. Alternatively you can contact us through our website @ www.thefcb.com.

Oceanus
Lumi Captain
Boatswain, The Baja Fleet

Dawn Hires New Town Crier (Felucca)
by Thellaren
September 20, 2001

From the Dawn Town Cryer (online):

Since the disappearance of our previous Town Cryer months ago, the Kingdom has been in search for a viable candidate to take her place. I'm pleased to announce that our search is over!

Noah, Dawn's new Town Cryer, can be found on the steps of Dawn Tower. Noah will provide news when asked, and will also respond to inquiries about 'Dawn', requests for 'info', and of course, the ages-old question 'vendor buy'! If you give Noah a tip, he might even point you towards our web site!

[WarderDragon]

Comments From Sannio
by Hazard [EiC]
July 26, 2001

The following item of interest was just posted to the Comments From The Team Section on the UO website:

Comments from Sannio
Hi, everyone. I�m your new Online Community Coordinator, or �OCC,� and you can call me Sannio. Some of you may recall that name from my time as Seer Sannio on Chesapeake. I played for well over a year as Wixim the Mad, Lord Hughert, Korryn, Joye (Minax� patsy in the Trinsic invasion), and even Dupre, plus a bunch of other characters and monsters and such. Before that, for a short time, I served Napa Valley for a few months as Counselor PapaMan.

Players from Baja may know me as Nobody, Brother Huberty, or Nathan Harper, among others. In some way or another, I�ve been involved with a lot of groups & communities there, such as Britannia Search & Rescue, the Freeborn Press, Avalon, Lumaria, Golden, the Golden Players, the Baja Mage Tower, the Scorpions, the Kingdom of Dawn, and even UO Stratics� Baja section, plus a whole bunch more. (And I�m also sure that everyone who knows me from Baja also appreciates the brevity of these comments, as opposed to my usual lengthy ramblings!)

Before joining Origin Systems, I�ve done Web design, desktop publishing, illustrating, comic books, trading cards, and other creative things like that. Now that I�m Ultima Online�s OCC, I�ll be a kind of �communications middle-man� between all of the players and all the teams here at Origin working on UO. The Online Community Relations team and I will try to help keep you informed on all the latest updates & changes in the game�but don�t expect me to give away any event scenario secrets! :] I�ll also be trying to be your voice here at Origin, keeping everyone here informed in all the things that you care about or ways in which you�d like the game to advance & grow. You�ll probably see me most often posting on the UO.com message boards, and I�ll look forward to posting back and forth with everyone there.

Sannio
Online Community Coordinator
Ultima Online
Origin Systems

[WarderDragon]

Reaching a Goal
by Brenstar
March 16, 2001

The candle light flickered. Ivy carefully read over the last line of the script. She hadn't slept in days. Her eyes were stinging, and she could barely lift her head. These past days had been hell. After returning the Countess to Dawn, she had decided to return to her studies of advancing in her magic.

A harsh cough shook the Mistress' slight form. She covered her mouth with a soft cloth until it passed. When she pulled it away, she knew what she'd see. Blood. Much the same as she had witnessed from her former love, ages ago it seemed. She sighed. Soon, she hoped it would be done with. He grew better as his skill increased. She had hoped it would be the same for her. Thus far though... it had only gotten worse.

With the words of power just behind her lips, she forced herself up the stairs of the Dark Tower. This would be it. The true test of her studies. All the practice, all the pain... the sheer agony... done with this day. She would finally taste the sweetness of success. She didn't know where Lefty was... or if he still lived in this world, but this was for him. It always had been. From the first spell she ever cast, to this very moment.

Standing in the center of the pentagram, she shouted the words of the spell to the darkening sky. And she waited. Nothing happened. She looked around confused. Even before now, when she had tried this... she could feel her failure. But this time was different. The world was silent, almost frozen. Then she heard it, and felt it. A roar in the ether. It built in her ears and she felt it flooding into her body.

She was filled with elation at having finally succeeded, but her joy was short lived as excrutiating pain ripped through her. She fought with all that she was to control it. For what seemed like an eternity, the ethereal waves tore at her very being, bringing pain where pleasure should have been. And finally it stopped. The Mistress dropped to her knees.

"Now," she breathed the words aloud, yet to herself, "I am... worthy of my place."

She forced herself to her feet and down the stairs. She reached the stone of the Tower. And laid her hand on it. 'You have done well Mistress. Regain our glory. Return the structure I was born to.' The warm voice washed over her mind. Whispering, yet clear as a bell.

The door opened behind her, she turned to see Beldock, astride his Nightmare steed. The world was swimming in front of her eyes. They argued. He was going to smother her ability to use magic, to save her from the "ether sickness" she suffered from. In desperation to prove she would survive, she set her spellbook aflame. He put it out. And put away his private spellbook. He would not blanket her abilities.

Relief flooded her and the sudden release of stresses only weakened her. She weaved unsteadily on her feet. Beldock lifted her from her feet. She felt fever creeping over her, yet she shivered. He set her on her cot and covered her. All the events from the casting of that final spell had been a haze. She closed her eyes, and passed out, into a deep, exhausted sleep. Only one thought rang through her mind... 'I have finally achieved it...'

Reminder! Golden's Great Date Auction Friday!
by Ursula
March 14, 2001

Reminder! Golden's Great Date Auction Friday!
This Friday, March 16th, at 7:30pm PST come to the Golden Globe Theater in Golden and bid for a date with the man or woman of your dreams!

Following the auction there will be a party on the roof for the dates to take place. You may choose to have your date at another time or location. People being auctioned off may also bid on another person themselves, so obviously, they'd have to schedule the date at another time.

Here is the list of volunteers being auctioned off. This is subject to change.

Adian O'Rourke, Guildmaster of LGG
Angelica of Avalon
Kita Talith of Golden
Pasque of Golden
Rakhir of Heaven's Forge and RS
Scorpio of Avalon and Guildmaster of The Scorpions
S'karlett, Rogue Princess of The Royal Court
Syrann Ferenczy, Queen of the Gypsies, S^G
Thibor Ferenczy of The Society of Gypsies
Thorin Orcrist of The Dark Wardens
Ursula of Golden
Wildstar of Dawn

All proceeds will go to the renovation of the Golden Globe Theater.

Dawn Museum Reviewed by Markee Dragon
by Nobody
February 25, 2001

The Kingdom of Dawn's Museum of Dreams (located on Felucca) was recently reviewed by Shahrressa of Atlantic at www.markeedragon.com. The original article is here, and it's formatted so you can leave comments with the article. She also have some screenshots of her visit, located here, as mentioned in her article. The entire article is reproduced below.


Visit the Dawn Museum of Dreams (Baja)

Heyla, everyone!

Shahrressa here, reporting for MarkeeDragon.com. Shogun and I had the pleasure this week of visiting the Kingdom of Dawn on the Baja Shard. Vengence, Curator of the Dawn Museum of Dreams, was kind enough to show us around the newly remodeled Tower.

The Kingdom of Dawn itself is enormous, spanning the entire coast east of the dungeon Wrong on the Felucca facet. We were hopelessly lost until a kind soul named Silverwolf, Marshal of the 8th Armored Calvary cast us a gate and turned us in the right direction (Thanks again, Silverwolf!). Upon our arrival at the Kingdom of Dawn and the Dawn Museum of Dreams, Vengence immediately welcomed us with open arms. All around us were players enjoying each other�s company, and participating in the joyful festivities.

Our host, Vengence, was a kind and patient man, and very excited indeed about his work. We found him to be quite knowledgeable indeed and a wealth of information on the rare and unique items on display, which he knew by heart. Vengence has a dream that is shared by others scattered throughout Britannia. However, the dream is beginning to be realized in the Kingdom of Dawn on the Baja shard. In interviewing Vengence for a time, while listening to the tranquil sounds of the fountain monument, he expressed to us his desire, to provide a place for players throughout the Ultima Online community to come, see, share in, and learn about not only rares themselves but their history. Vengence is, and has been making an active contribution to the community in the selfless hope, that you�ll be able to come, and enjoy.

Located near the Dungeon Wrong on the Baja shard, Dawn's newest museum needed over a year to amass and arrange the hundreds of items on display. Many of the items were generously donated by citizens of Britannia, who wished to see them preserved and displayed with care. The tower itself is very graphically intensive, with over 2,000 lockdowns, so be patient when you visit!

Upon entering, you are greeted by a friendly but quiet GM, who guards a treasure room that contains a magnitude of wealth the likes of which we have never seen! A guidebook to the Museum tells us that it is the Wealth of the Implementers, but little is known about this ancient race of people.

Traveling up the stone stairs, you witness the most amazing sight - the Ethereal Room. See what it feels like to travel within the ether itself. You have to experience it to believe it! This room is a mages' study, and contains books and other magical items not seen in Britannia for many a year and more.
The third floor of the Museum contains a kitchen that would delight even the most experienced of chefs. Containing foods from around the world, with the items used to cook them, the Kitchen is a tempting, tasty treat.

A friendly, silent fellow named Grim guards the roof area, which is divided into several sections. An armory/workshop area displays tools used past and present, along with several different types of metals, some of which are no longer found in Britannia. An Aquarium displays several different species of fish, and a slaughterhouse stands ominous beneath its black cloth canopy.

The center of the roof spotlights a beautiful fountain, with foaming water streaming down a rock guardian. We were lulled by its tranquil, peaceful music.

To view some screenshots of this wonderous tower, click HERE

Thank you again to Vengence for a lovely tour. We hope to visit Dawn again and see more of this extensive Kingdom!
Shahrressa
Roving Reporter

A note from Shogun, Shattered Crystal Community Coordinator

The Shattered Crystal Gaming Network would like to congratulate Vengence, The Kingdom of Dawn, and the citizens of Baja, on the opening of an exciting landmark. The SC Gaming Network has a long, proud history of supporting online gaming communities and most exclusively, the players of Ultima Online. We�ve made a contribution to the Dawn Museum of Dreams, and hereby are supporters of their project.

We encourage everyone in the community who�s helping to enrich the game with their own contributions, to continue to make Ultima Online a rich and exciting experience. We also encourage you to make a visit to Dawn, or other communities like it, to see what you can do to get involved, or simply treat yourself to the creations of what makes UO so special; the players.

Opalescence Dies, A Mistress Proclaimed
by Nobody
January 16, 2001

Zeminar asked Opalescense to step outside the Dawn Mage Tower with him. Once they were out of earshot, he opened a gate and shoved her through. The Dark Tower loomed over them. He forced her inside and chained her to the malevolent stone housed in the back room.

Ivy entered the Tower, and saw her new prize sleeping in the darkness. She smiled to herself. This would work out well. She would keep Opalescense alive, and Mrrshan would remain in the Tower.

As the night progressed Ivy grew irritable. Zeminar appeared and challenged her authority. In a fit of rage, Ivy took out her dagger and beheaded the sleeping Opalescense, tossing her head at the feet of those gathered there. She then went to the roof and stood upon the pentagram to await what she knew was coming.

And death came to her upon the roof. While in the nether realm, Ivy bound Opalescense's spirit there. She would have her revenge upon the Quest Knight.

Ivy was brought back to the living realm and the Tower was there to comfort her, always offering it's promise of forgetfulness. And as she watched, her pin morphed on her shirt. The Tower itself had proclaimed her it's new Mistress.

An attached announcement from Lady Ivy:

The deed is done. The Quest Knight, Opalescense, the thief who disturbed Na-Krul's rest, is dead. Her debt to this world has been paid. She got only what she deserved for the trouble she has brought upon this land. Because of this accursed "Knight of Compassion" an undead plague has been unleashed. Those she brought torment to now have her soul to keep them company.

Lady Ivy
Mistress of the Dark Tower

Opalescence and the Undead....
by Brenstar
January 13, 2001

Opalescense arrived at the Dawn Tower a little early and was able to watch as the room became more and more crowed with members from the Kingdom of Dawn (DWN), Legion of the Emerald Sashes (E/S), and others. At the prescribed time, Opal started to speak and asked for suggestions on what to do with Na-Krul's remains. Those in the group suggested that they be buried in holy ground with a strong binding spell to keep the remains buried. As this was being discussed, Arwyn Blackheart of the Dark Tower showed up poisoned and warned us of an approaching undead group. What was strange about this, is that Arwyn appeared to be scared and nervous. That is highly unusual for him. We continued to discuss the matter and members of Dark Tower and a small but determined group of undead showed up. A chaotic battle ensued outside the tower, with the undead repeatedly attacking Opal and members of Dark Tower. Near the end of the battle, Arwyn reappeared and begged us to come with him to the Dark Tower. There he explained that they at Dark Tower needed the remains to ressurection Na-Krul, so Na-Krul could seal the Well of Souls. Opal gave the remains to him. A few minutes later, the spirit of Na-Krul appeared. The spirt spoken of his ressurction and about the Well of Souls. Dori of E/S and I agreed that we would help with the ressurction of Na-Krul to rid the realm of the Well of Souls. The ressurction of Na-Krul and the sealing of the Well of Souls will take place at the Dark Tower on Sunday at 8 PM PST.

[WarderDragon]

Here are a number of entries from the Freeborn Press News Archives, related to the City of Ravenshire & Shadowfel:

Ravenshire to Host Story Night
by Nobody
July 24, 2001

The following from Cantharis was recently posted by Cymidei Fier to UO Stratics:


Ravenshire to Host Story Night

This week Ravenshire is happy to announce that we will host the story telling night with Meredith the Bard. Come tell your tale of bravery, tragedy, or any other story that strikes your fancy!

You can even test your improvisational skills with Goldens famous Story roulette, wherein you get three words fromt he audience and make up a story with those three words in it. There will be an open bar as well as a BBQ. This event will take place Wed. the 25th 6:30 pm pst.

Come and share a tale!!!

Cantharis

City of Ravenshire plans Hythloth Adventure
by Nobody
May 30, 2001

The following announcement from Cantharis of the City of Ravenshire was posted to UO Stratics:


City of Ravenshire Plans Hythloth Adventure

Hail Citizens of Britannia,

There have been rumors of a greater evil brewing in the dungeon Hythloth. We are assembling a party of 40 brave souls to venture into the depths of that vile hole in the ground. We will be splitting into 5 teams to brave the abyss! Each team will have a team captain, which will be one of the citizens of Ravenshire. It will be your duty to protect your team captain, for if he or she falls, your team must leave the dungeon.

However..... If any one falls, they will be ressurected long enough for them to retrieve thier corpse and be gated out. Once we have hit the bottom floor, we will challenge that evil and once it is destroyed we shall return to Ravenshires RavensWing Tavern and have a celebration! At this time, Prizes will be given out to the most courages team, the most helpful and the one with the most members!

Please join us Saturday June 2nd at 9pm PST at Ravenshire Coordinates: 131'6�N 131'33�E - Trammel

We will also be providing gates from East and West Britain bank, Vesper Bank, Moonglow Bank, Delucia Bank, And Minoc Bank. Best of Luck to every one who braves the depths!

Cantharis

OPUS joins Ravenshire
by Nobody
March 17, 2001

The following announcement from Lord Dracon was posted to UOSS:


OPUS joins Ravenshire

The crafts guild OPUS has changed to RavenShire Artisians Union it reflects Maston Sempers new town and there is a link to the City's webpage on the our webpage. If anyone has any questions or concerns please feel free to send those my way. I will be happy to answer. The website is at www.geocities.com/dracon79

Lord Dracon GuildMaster

Grand Opening of the Town of Ravenshire
by Nobody
March 14, 2001

The following announcement from Mayor Maston Semper was posted to UOSS:


Grand Opening of the Town of Ravenshire

Hail and well met, We are proud to announce the official celebration and introduction of the Town of Ravenshire and the First Annual Ravenshire Faire. The Town of Ravenshire is located on the Trammel Facet to the north of Vesper and across the river from the Shrine of Sacrifice Please feel free to stop by on the first of April at 3 P.M. Pacific Time and take a tour of our homes and establishments. Our citizens will be on hand with wares, refreshments and will be hosting a number of events for your enjoyment, including horse and relay races, animal fights, and even a scavenger hunt. Thank you to all in advance, and enjoy.

Maston Semper, Mayor of Ravenshire (RvN)
Map of Ravenshire
Town of Ravenshire

Grand Opening of the Town of Ravenshire
by Thellaren
March 14, 2001

The following was posted to the UO Stratics Baja Forum today:

We are proud to announce the official celebration and introduction of the Town of Ravenshire and the First Annual Ravenshire Faire.

The Town of Ravenshire is located on the Trammel Facet to the north of Vesper and across the river from the Shrine of Sacrifice here

Please feel free to stop by on the first of April at 3 P.M. Pacific Time and take a tour of our homes and establishments. Our citizens will be on hand with wares, refreshments and will be hosting a number of events for your enjoyment, including horse and relay races, animal fights, and even a scavenger hunt. Thank you to all in advance, and enjoy.

Maston Semper-Mayor of Ravenshire (RvN)

Grand Opening Festival for the City of Shadowfel (Trammel)
by Hazard [EiC]
September 30, 2001

Grand Opening Festival for The City of Shadowfell (Trammel)
Greetings!

A grand festival will be held on October 7th, at 1 PM PST to celebrate the founding of Shadowfell, City of legends and nightmares. We invite you to join us for a day of revelry. For directions to Shadowfell visit HERE


Dark Soul Competition - The most evil folk in the land will gather and be judged on the basis of their appearance, speech, and ability to answer questions. The winner shall be dubbed The Darkest Soul of Baja and recieve a 100,000 gold piece check! The competition will be judged by celebrity guests from a prominent role playing guild on Atlantic.

The Grand Tourney - Members of -S- and the Shadow Imperium Elite will vie for the title of Champion of Shadowfell in a single elimination duels . Festival goers can bet on who they think the winner will be. 50,000 gold piece prize to the champion.

Summoner of the Abyss - The mage who can summon the most deamons in fifteen minutes will win the title Summoner of the Abyss and a 50,000 gold piece check.

Dire Duels - A dozen dire wolves will duel to the death - Festival goers will bet on the winner. 10,000 bonus to the gambler who selects the winning wolf.

Baja's Best Assasin - The assasin who can poison the most blades fastest wins a 50,000 gold piece check

[WarderDragon]

Golem At Large
by Brenstar
January 8, 2001

A group of black garbed soldiers cautiously approached the great marbled throne of the Emperor. Their leader swiftly fell to one knee. "Your highness we are here."

Azalin slowly lifted his gaze, his glowing green eyes searching the faces of the soldiers. Azalin clenched his black and green silk robes and rose slowly to his feet. "Excellent..." He replied "I have an urgent task to lay before you. "As you might know, I have constructed a golem. A magickal construct which was to be my prototype for an army of soulless soldiers. During the final phase of my experimentation. The insane mage, Lord Mordock caused a fire at my laboratory. The resulting fire caused the golem to become warped and twisted beyond control. Now the magicks that were used to create it, sustain it no matter what damage is done to it. It has the ability to regenerate and to cause chaos throughout my lands. I order you to defeat it and to bring me the soulstone that generates its power. When I am presented with the soul stone...you shall be rewarded."

The hunt begins 1/13/2000 at the center of the Hedge Maze (Trammel)
More information about the quest and the Emperor's armies can be found at

www.shadowimperium.com

Kidnapped by the Shadow Imperium!
by Nobody
January 8, 2001

Opal patted Sparrow, her pet ostard � a gift from Wraith, on the head as he strove to keep the pace she set through the forest. She was headed to the Golden Brew to see if she might relax a bit and watch the play the Golden Players were presenting.

"I promise, you can rest as soon as we are there...at least for a while," she urged the winded ostard, it's strides covering less distance then usual.

They arrived at the Golden Globe and Opal reigned Sparrow in. She tied him off in front of the Brew and, trying to stay unnoticed, made her way to the roof to see the play. The voice she had been hearing was still there, trying to persuade her to relinquish the remains to the Dark Tower.

The play was cancelled for the moment, due to some technical difficulties, so Opal went down to retrieve Sparrow. She mounted up, hoping to escape notice...but that did not happen. As she wheeled Sparrow around she saw a familiar face and nearly fell off of her mount. It was Kray.

She spoke to him, confiding in him what had been happening. And suddenly there was a commotion. Mrrshan, who had been at her side since hearing of her situation, was suddenly standing in front of her, brandishing his bardiche as if guarding her from something. She looked in the direction he was facing. The crowd was parting for a man dressed in black, wearing a single green sash. The Dread Lord Beldock.

At his approach, even Sparrow took a few steps backward.

"Give me the remains, Opal."

"I cannot."

"You will die if you do not relinquish them to the Dark Tower. The undead will hunt you until they have them, or you are dead. I ask you to give them to me... as man who once loved you. I rarely ask in public; I am asking you now in front of all these people, please."

Her cheeks flushed slightly at his words, and the world spun. All she could think was 'It's all a dream, let it all be a dream'. And at once her senses came back to her, all her memories and her thoughts were clear. No voice invaded her mind, and her purpose stood clear.

She leaned forward on Sparrow, and looked into Beldocks eyes.

"If you had ever really known me, you would know I cannot do what you ask," she said quietly.

"Very well. I wish you safety in your travels. Kal Ort Por." And he was gone. Sometime in the commotion, Kray had suggested she give the remains to Beldock, and had then disappeared. Wraith stood there. She was thankful there was a friendly face in the crowd. Even Mrrshan was exuding a hate so strong the scar on her hand throbbed slightly.

A cold sensation washed over the crowd as another being in black approached the area where she was standing. Azalin the Lich, of the Shadow Imperium. He was inquiring what was happening in her area. One of his subjects, Vladamir Threep, approached her.

"If you would, I should like to speak to you in private. Come."

The commotion in the crowd was making Sparrow nervous and Opal was feeling rather uncomfortable. So she followed into the gate he opened. As did Mrrshan.

They went inside the house and Vlad offered to help Opal in her endeavours to keep the remains of Na-Krul from those who would misuse them. After a time, she was allowed to leave. Mrrshan, however was ordered to guard her as he would Vlad. Something Opal found very odd, as Vlad was undead and served a lich. She went back to the Golden Brew, Mrsshan by her side, alert.

When they arrived, Mrrshan turned to scan the forest. Opal took this moment, and spurred Sparrow off into the forest. She heard Mrrshan curse behind her and Sparrow sprinted further and further away, leaving him behind. She needed time alone, too much was happening.

As she was finishing off a reaper, who was terrorizing some local homes, Mrrshan approached � But something was wrong, his eyes were hollow. As the reaper fell, she felt a blow to the back of her head, caused by the haft of the bardiche in Mrrshan's hands.

When she awoke, it was to cold water being thrown in her face. Mrrshan was holding her arms. Azalin the Lich stood on one side of her, and the Lady Cymidei, formerly of the Temple of Athala stood on her other. They were searching through her bags. Her mind screamed, "No!" But to her relief, they could not open all of them. The voice reassured her that these creatures would not find the remains.

Cymidei smiled reassuringly at her and stroked her cheek with one hand. Mrrshan released her and headed off down the stairs of the tower they were now standing on. Cymidei firmly grabbed one of her arms.

She spoke of destroying Na-Krul's remains upon the Shrine of Spirtuality with the righteous fires that sprang from it. The voice, always present, kept distracting her from what the Lady was saying. Finally Azalin handed an amulet to Cymidei. She offered it to Opal, saying it would protect her from spiritual energies. The moment she took the amulet, the voice fell silent in her mind. And the Lady Cymidei released her.

Her mind was clouded with confusion and emotion from the happenings of the eve, and she fled to the one spot she considered safe in the world...her patch of flowers. She sat there for many hours, not a sound disturbing her, when she heard the steps of a mounted rider approaching. It was Mrrshan. She picked up her staff and fell into a defensive position.

They had an exchange and he ran off. She ran after him. The ring upon his hand was no longer gold, but black. She tried to get him to be rid of it, but as he tried to fling it into the ocean his eyes went hollow again. He refused. Now she knew there was something the matter. He wore the pin of the Shadow Imperium. Not knowing what else to do, she looked at the amulet Cymidei had given her. Taking it in her hand, she flung it at him.

"Return that to your... lord and lady." She said as she wheeled Sparrow around and whispered the words that would take her to one of the places she felt safe.

Tiberius captured by the Imperial Inquisition
by Brenstar
January 12, 2001

Tiberius was summoned by Emperor Azalin the Lich and Empress Cymidei Fier, to answer for his teachings on the virtues. Before leaving his Temple, Tiberius was blessed by a mysterious Elven priest. When he arrived at the tower, Vladmir Threep brought Tiberius before the Empress. After a brief debate, the Empress became angry at the famous philosopher and placed a powerful geise upon him so that he could not leave Fier Tower until he and his knights could answer five diabolical riddles on the meaning of Evil. The Tiberian Knights responded quickly to aid Tiberius. Lead by Midian, Sir Ishop, Sir Vega, and Sir Grandmystic strived to free Tiberius from the yoke of Cymidei's sorcery. The Emperor and Tiberius debated for quite some time while the Knights carefully examined the riddles. Mandy, the Master of Arms, challenged Sir Ishop to duel Calvin II. Unfortunately, a murderous villain interfered with the completion of the duel. However, because Tiberius and his knights were able to complete the challenges put to them, Cymidei had no choice but to free the philosopher from the geise. As the spell was broken...night fell and the tower groaned with mysterious voices and ominous sounds...as if the dark deities themselves protested his release.

See Enemies and Quests www.shadowimperium.com

Golems Sighted in Skara Brae
by Thellaren
March 22, 2001

I was at the bank last night minding my own business when I saw a pair of Golems walk up to me. One seemed to be examining me...while the other was "searching for a new target". A few moments later the golems spotted a wild pack horse. They began screetching "exterminate!" and they killed the horse with their halberds.

A few other citizens of Skara Brae looked on with a mixture of shock and uneasy laughter. A few followed the golems out of town...watching to see what they would do next.

One can only wonder....Is Azalin the Lich involved in this?

The Shadow Imperium

Golem Patrols Southern Border
by Hazard [EiC]
April 6, 2001

While making it's regular patrols in the Skara Brae area, The Golem was ordered by Azalin to patrol south near Destard. Upon reaching the Destard Outpost cries of help were heard from a prisoner. The Golem reacted swiftly, slaying brigands and creatures that would jeopardize the safety of the citizens of the Imperium.

After the battle, The Golem walked up to the victim and shattered the chains on his wrists. Emperor Azalin stated, "Let this serve as proof to those who would doubt me that the people of Skara Brae can expect just and benevolent rule from the Shadow Imperium."

Emperor Azalin Visits Fairhaven Village
by Nobody
April 11, 2001

At the invitation of Mayor Silkon, Emperor Azalin visited Fairhaven village, accompanied with his lady Cymidei Fier. After exchanging pleasantries and tales Cymidei challenged Mayor Silkon to produce a champion from the village to duel the Golem.

After a close match the Golem was defeated by Nethin's Bard,the Fairhaven Village Champion. Emperor Azalin summoned a soldier of the Imperium, Queen of Chaos to duel the bard. The second match was a draw. Swamp Fox challenged Queen of Chaos to a final duel. After a few minutes Queen of Chaos emerged victorious. All enjoyed the event!

Imperial Anniversary Regata
by Nobody
May 3, 2001

*A messenger arrives with an elegant scroll*

Imperial Invitation

Ye are cordially invited to join Emperor Azalin Lore and Lady Cymidei Fier in celebration of their First Anniversary.

May 6th, at 6 Pm PST at the Golden Brew. Counselor Mystic shall preside over the ceremony. Feasting, hunting and merriment to follow.

Events:

The Great Sea Hunt - Fifty nets will be thrown into the sea causing all manner of krakens, sea serpents and water elementals to arise from the depths. All treasure will be given to the guests!

Boat Decorating Contest - Creatively embellish your vessel with flair and ye may be the lucky winner of a 50,000 dollar purse!

The Great Yacht Race - The first ship and crew to sail from Lore Island to Vesper shall receive 100,000 gold.

Sincerely,
Emperor Azalin Lore,
www.shadowimperium.com

Imperial Anniversary Regata Success!
by Nobody
May 7, 2001

After the wedding, the guests searched the countryside in search of hidden ale bottles and Messages in Bottles. Next we launched our ships and tossed dozens of nets into the sea, causing krakens, deep-sea serpents, water elementals and sea-serpents to spawn! It was a lively hunt with lots of loot! Fortunately there were no casualties!

Finally we set sail from Lore Island to the Docks of Vesper. There were three crews; Captain Shard's Pink Pirates, Trekkon's Crown of the Sea, and Midian's Brothers of the Sea. Trekkon's ship landed first in Vesper claiming the 100,000 gold prize! The other crews each received 25,000. Everyone had a grand time! Thanks for coming!

Sincerely,
Lady Cymidei Fier
Lord Azalin Lore
The Shadow Imperium

Fairhaven Village Seeks Necromatic Sword to Fell Lich Commander
by Nobody
July 24, 2001

Fairhaven Village has experienced many strange events over the past few months linked to a sinister lich lord. Now the villagers are very close to discovering a means to confront this mysterious evil.

Last night the warriors of Fairhaven set out on a quest to find an artifact that would let them destroy the evil Lich that had been terrorizing the countryside. First, the party, led as always by Fizban, set off to the star room to meet a fabled oracle who was believe to have knowledge that could help them.



Although the creature spoke in disjointed riddles when found, the canny villagers were able to deduce that they needed three things: a quantity of shadow ore, a tome with incantations related to Necromancy in it, and the special skill of a certain smith in Jhelom named Mordoc.



These crucial ingredients could supposedly be used to forge a sword of sufficient magical strength and nature to defeat the Lich. The villagers acquired the ore easily enough, and managed to find the tome within the abandoned lab in the center of the hedge maze.

They then brought these two items to Mordoc, the smith in Jhelom, who agreed to forge for them a custom sword of superior strength. After preparing the materials and selecting the right incantation from the book, Mordoc moved about his business quickly and finally produced a katana of amazing power. Hopefully, this weapon will let us defeat this menace once and for all!

Thankye Nether

[WarderDragon]

Here are a number of entries from the Freeborn Press News Archives, related to the Dark Tower:

The End of An Era
by Nobody
November 23, 2000

The End of an Era

...and with him, died an era. The Dark Tower was abandoned, left to only the vermin and apparitions that feasted upon the emptiness that remained. The death of the Master had left the Tower in utter chaos. Factions split and once again brethren turned against brethren in a bloody rage and struggle for power. The very structure and unification set forth by the malevolent father, the dreaded lord Xander, was ripped apart as the disunity of the Cabal shook the very foundation of its vast and eternal history. No longer did the Cabal posses the wisdom and guidance left to them by the seemingly ancient priest of darkness, the very man that had once been the very breath of life into the lifeless decaying corpse of evil within Sosaria. Xander was the last link to the �Age of Darkness� and all its wisdom, and Na-Krul was his last disciple. The Age of Darkness, a time eons ago when the darkness was so thick no ray of light dared to penetrate its thick and deceitful aura, a time when the great lords of apocalypse sprang forth all Armageddon upon the weak and exasperated. The time when even Beast British shrank in fear to the name of the greatly powerful ancient wizard Mondain, and his legions of daemons. It was then the Dark Tower emerged, spewing forth from the womb of Sosaria into the ravages of time, consumed by the future�

When One Hand sunders
The Dark will slumber
When Eight stones stand high
The Dark will rise

Xander was the very herald of time, the awakener of our people, and the source from which our roots stemmed. With the death of Na-Krul, our link to our history, our birthright, was lost and shattered. And so it was said, when one hand sunders, the Dark shall slumber, and we did. The Cabal scattered, falling into a councious slumber, escaping the cruel fate that had begotten them. What was left of Na-Krul�s followers soon followed. The Tower had become abandoned, empty, and hollow of thought. Cursed by a spell of slumber begotten to them by the very treachery of an age old ally. But now our ancient beckoner has once again awakened us, and the dark shall rise again. Our ancient glory shall be revived and all shall taste the blood lust of our enlightenment. I give a calling to my brethren, my fellow brother and sister who fought by my side in the great war and felt the festering wound of betrayal. My brother and sister who also in the past had become students of darkness and disciples of Na-Krul in an era of blasphemy and revelation. My brother and sister who wish to reclaim their birthright from the foul phantom of death. We must drop our swords, and reclaim our history. I, Arwyn Blackheart, have grown too old. I have rested my sword and shield upon the shrine in a quest of knowledge and understanding to the recovery of our past. Already, the Zargonians have seen the light in our darkness, and join the brotherhood of evil splendor. I call to the citizens of this world, join us in our quest�

I beseech you.

Arwyn Blackheart,
Loremaster of the Tower

The Well of Souls
by Brenstar
January 6, 2001

��Screams of horror fill the dank, dark halls of Khaldun as yet another lifeless husk falls to the ground. The overwhelming undead, pouring forth through the ancient crypts angered that their eternal rest was disturbed by yet another band of weary adventurers. Wave after wave of zealots protrude from the dark mists floating ominously within the dungeon in search of those who dare trespass upon their unholy soil, those that would dare attempt the recovery of the scholar and priest�s remains entrusted to them years before. The voice had warned them about this. The dead, the jealous dead, they would not release the decomposed remains of Na-Krul; not without a fight. His bones rested with them now, and no mortal who breathed life would dare take that from them. Or so was thought. The tattered bones of Na-Krul, now missing from the fathomless pit of doom, taken by the so-called Quest Knight of Compassion. Fury, the rage of undeath, had now been released upon the world once again. The curse of the red death, stirred by an ancient power, an ancient voice of reassurance that had guaranteed the return of the herald. As long as the cursed bones remained within the grasps of the heretics, all would feel the cold, icy embrace of death��


Thunder, clash, the whistling of the wind whipping through the dead grass as a waterfall of rain poured from the heavens. Sosaria had not seen such a storm for centuries. The earth virtually melted away as the rolling waves of mud filtered about, enchanted with the life of a monsoon. The coasts flooded as the titanic waves splashed ashore, eagerly displacing itself back into the deep, salty bay it new best at heart. All was not natural and all was not serene. A thick, black mist, darker than night and thicker than the clouds floating among the heavens crept slowly over the horizon south of Britain. Panic struck the sea-bound as the vital light and guidance of the lighthouses vanished, consumed by the thick, gloomy fog emanating from the swampland.

The storm had lasted only but a day, disappearing as quickly and wrathfully as the thick black fog, yet as mysteriously as it had appeared. Where had such a storm fathomed from, and what menacing darkness was at bay? At that same moment, the wails and screams of the dead hung in the air, their putrid aroma of death filtering itself throughout the realm. Drifting through the Kingdom of Dawn, and slowly creeping upon the populace of Avalon. What had disturbed their rest? Who had brought their curse upon the living? Unknown originals bit at the minds of all as this curse of death plagued the denizens of the realm.

Deep within the Tower of darkness, south of Britain, and just north of the swampland, the believed starting point of the decrepit curse, bubbled an evil so hot with hatred no man could survive the wrathful embrace of its fumes. A gagging smell overflowed the temple where which Na-Krul himself once spoke and preached. A temple founded upon the blood and torment of the innocents. The same innocents sacrificed to the very well of imprisonment that now fed the curse of death drifting throughout the land.

The well was founded upon the unholy reign of Dread Lord Xander, mentor to Na-Krul. Together, Na-Krul and Xander had fashioned the well, enchanting it, bestowing life upon it through the ritualistic feedings of the souls of innocents and murderous alike. Now, the once craving evil, the once dormant Well of Souls, has been awakened by an evil unimaginable. The captives of this plight, jealous of the living, and infuriated at the liberation of Na-Krul�s corpse from their grasps now release their wrath upon the world for the sin of one. The one known only to them as the thief marked with the scent of hatred throbbing forth from the scar that singed and seared upon the cold casket Na-Krul�s remains once dwelled. How can this evil be stopped, how can those tortured by the grievances of Na-Krul be released from an eternity of torment? Time shall tell, and until then, may the thief who disturbed their rest, the thief who robbed Na-Krul�s cursed tomb of his remains, be weary of the curse of the red death�they are searching for you.

(The Dark Tower is recruiting any and all that wish to participate in an upcoming event this Friday (January 12th) at 8 PM pacific. To participate, you must create a new character and name him with a name such as �an undead warrior,� or a �tortured soul.� Create this character with light or pale green skin. Skills are irrelevant. We will be meeting at 7:30 PM in the dueling pits of Jhelom. A weapon, potions, bone armor, robes, and few reagents shall be supplied to you before we depart for the event. Remember, this is a role-played event. If you are killed, no murder count is to be given. To register for this event, e-mail [e-mail] for verification and support. Thank you.)

The Ressurection and Departure of Na-Krul
by Brenstar
January 15, 2001

Last eve we bid a *coughs* sad farewell to our *coughs again* beloved Na-Krul.

Through the use of a more powerful resurrection spell, discovered in some of the most ancient of the Dark Tower Library's tomes, Dipree, Sauron, and myself summoned forth and raised the spirit of our now former *ahem* Master. Our original intent in these actions was to have him close the accursed Well of Souls he and the former Master Xander had created and quiet the unrestful dead that keep pouring forth from it.

Our request met with his ridicule. Tis of little matter, I shall find a way to rid us all of that monstrosity. Instead, Na-Krul revealed that he is travelling on to another realm at the beckoning of... the Guardian.

For all who missed this event, I have had some painters put their paintings on display on the following sky page:

www.geocities.com/miriam_baja/resurrection.htm