In attendance:
Kelly Sanderson, Sergeant
Ilyana Drachen, Senior Arcanist
Donald McLachlan, Steward of Cove
Delcarakdur, Regular Grenadier
Khaelieth, Burger

In accordance with the communicated wishes of the Baronship for the restoration of the barracks to its previous grand state, much needs to be done, including raising funds. To this end, I mustered a patrol, and after judging our skills and levels of combat readiness, opted, at Sergeant Sanderson's urging, to once again dominate the orc fort rather than tempt fate with Covetous. After pushing our way into the orc fort, we liberated quite a substantial amount of gold, no doubt stolen from the Baronship's tax paying citizens. Said booty was swiftly returned to the Baron's coffers after setting fire to the vile pile of sticks the orcs call a fort. We then set out for Swaggers Inn, where we impressed the locals with our wit, good looks, and success!

Last night I was lying in bed, tossing and turning, unable to sleep. Memories of UO were running through my mind like a newbie running from a red. I’ve recently listened to Wes Locher’s Braving Britannia (volume 1) on Audible, and got a hankering for UO.  I can warmly recommend the book - I’m gonna have to get volume 2 in paperback as it’s not out on Audible. I’ve since reactivated my old account and made one for Outlands to scratch that particular itch.

But listening to the book got me thinking. I started playing UO in, I think, early 2001, after a pal of mine got me into it after I said I liked Diablo 2, and he knew of this MUCH cooler game. And he was absolutely correct. I played a bit on his account before getting my own. I still remember the specific store I used to buy game time codes.
 
While browsing MyUOat school, I found Grd, one of the biggest guilds at the time, around 200 Veteran members at the time. I was super impressed. Does anyone else remember the feeling of the fresh new internet? MMOs were new. Dial up was being phased out in favour of ISDN. I also discovered RP from their website and decided that was for me. I created Charles Innes and joined the wider CoY community, being chased by TCR, Tgl, UD, TBK, and KTD. All guild abbreviations and terrors I remember to this day. I was utterly useless in PvP and only marginally better against UO’s AI.

I've seen things you people wouldn't believe. Witches purified in the fire in Stonekeep. I watched Drakan be cut down in the dark in Eastern Yew by the TBK. All those moments will be lost in time, like tears in rain. Every once in a while, I use the Wayback machine to look at the old geocities and angelfire websites from way back when. I mean, ICQ’s also gone now. Like tears in rain.

For those who don’t know, Delcarakdur and I are childhood friends. With cabins close to each other, I remember going to the Arendal public library with him and showing him the old poisoning article on Stratics. I have no idea why that has stuck with me, but it has. Delcarakdur joined Cove roughly 1-2 years later. We now have kids born months apart. Funny how time flies.

While I cut my teeth in various CoY guilds, then some ERPA and CoRE, it was in BoC where I spent my time. As CoY died, I had a character in T*M (Tel’mar), whose name I can’t remember, but I do remember it was a drow and she got bullied by Ishael Baenre. Regardless, BoC was a new guild that was formed from the ashes of T*M. I decided to create a mage, as I’d never RPed one, and hitched my wagon to the Baronial horse (What’s its name again? Chelmsford?).

The idea was that Khaelieth would write some form of the Prince for the Baron and ingratiate himself to be some sort of evil advisor. But let’s be honest, my roleplaying wasn’t always the best. I was barely able to keep Khaelieth personality congruent, drifting from faux-Machiavelli to comedic relief. Kusghuul I probably managed better, but there wasn’t too much space for evil roleplaying. But by the Guardian’s pigtails, I had fun.

Roleplaying within BoC gave me so much. The framework that Command set up to include civilians was amazing. It went through a few iterations, and Khaelieth has been everything from Trade Minister to Turnip (Thanks, Hoagie!). It was always a blast and I don’t think I ever regretted any of the many events I attended.

Growing older, and with a second child on the way, has made me reflect on what actually matters. While some may say it’s due to me missing my youth and growing old, I don’t think so. UO and its RP scene, and especially BoC, has had an outsized effect on me. I wish I hadn’t wasted my time on other games that didn’t give me anywhere near the same amount of pleasure, comfort, and fun. I should’ve prioritised UO and BoC. Uni halls also wrecked my UO playing due to its bizarre internet connection not allowing games from 06 to 07

Something I also reflected on, was the sheer effort the guild leadership put in. Whether it’s organising events, building a website (and still hosting it, you absolutely legends <3), to shutting down the old babble board because I abused it, I’m so incredibly impressed. I certainly didn’t appreciate the work at the time, but I do now. I did understand shutting down the babble board at the time too, but that doesn’t mean I don’t miss it.

Check the date. Justice for the babble board!

I’m also kicking myself for not making more of an effort when it got rebooted with Endless Journey. I was struggling with time, but I should’ve tried harder. Organised better. Reprioritised. Something. Because BoC matters. And more importantly, it matters to me.

I have now claimed a spot north of the old barracks. I’ve decided to recreate the barracks as faithfully as I can, so if anyone has any screenshots, that’d be very helpful! I’ll keep it there until Europa gets shut down. You’ve all meant way more to me than you probably think, and definitely more than I realised at the time. This is the least I can do, so if anyone wants to drop by and relive (or maybe just live) the glory days, they can. I’ll occasionally host one-off events.

But you have poisoned all my gaming experiences. I compare every game and community to you guys. I’m not going to try to name names of who mattered the most. I’d like to say “they know,” but frankly, I’d rather keep you all guessing. However, if anyone has a way of contacting Jessica Hawkins (BoC), Seriya deLacey (Dark Cloaks), Lann’al (The Crimson Claw/F^L), or Vierna (F^L), give me a shout. Those are people I’ve sadly fallen out of touch with.

Gone are the days of me sitting up on Christmas Eve, or Hell, New Year’s Eve, hanging out in Stonekeep. And ca. 2002, there were loads of people online on both dates. But if you EVER feel like reactivating or just going on a patrol, shoot me a message. I’m Charles Fredrik Webb on Facebook and chazsexington on Discord. Or, if you’re ever in Oslo, give me a shout, and you might meet Delcarakdur and I.

So this is getting quite wordy for something written at work on 4 hours of sleep due to Cove occupying my mind. This isn’t a goodbye and it’s not a trip down memory lane (well, it’s not the point). UO is special. BoC is specialer. It’s a small token of my appreciation to everyone who participated in making BoC the greatest online community I’ve ever had the pleasure of being a member of. I miss the Baronship (part of the crew, part of the ‘ship!) dearly.

In the words of a non-BoC Baldy, and remember, Baldies are revered here in Cove for those old enough to remember, “nothing compares 2 u.”
Love you all and hope to see you in Sosaria again.

Chaz, player of Khaelieth, Kusghuul, Lil’alure and many more.


 

2025 is right around the corner.

I'm here!

When: 8.30pm GMT (after the patrol)
Where: Meet at Barracks
Bring: A positive attitude (Not baditudes)

I need help with harvesting the cacao pulp for the Axiana's chocolate production and all help is appreciated! We will venture to my abode near the Bogs of Desolation and gather the pulp, then take it back to Cove for processing. Any aid will possibly be awarded with chocolate once it is all completed!

*Signed*

Khaelieth Llelmandred Kellenwyr Sereghyanda

I attended.

Khaelieth.

Finding a temporary home in Cove, he quickly established himself as a military liaison, providing the Covian army with leather and other basic supplies in exchange for a modicum of wealth. While ostensibly a civilian, his skills as a mage and scout ensured he could play a role in the Covian army when required, and fought against the Kaldorians on several occasions, including a raid on Kaldor itself. He was also present for the re-taking of Cove from the orcs. He was later joined in Cove by his cousin, Delcarakdur. An ill-fated attempt to get Delcarakdur out of the Baron's dungeon led to Delcarakdur losing his hand.

He later married Jessica Hawkins, with whom he has one child. Khaelieth's mood grew ever more erratic as he sunk time into studies of blackrock, as time went on and Jessica left him. He eventually left Cove with his son, his cabin collapsing one harsh winter.

A dark and stormy night, Khaelieth returned to Cove. Thin, on the border of emaciation, with sunken eyes and a stretched countenance, he was visibly sick and often suffers from nose bleeds, splitting headaches, and a weak constitution. He is often seen leaning on his black staff to support.

Pigeon sent to Axiana

Dearest Axiana,

I shall attend the faire and I shall be bringing fine hides and leather.

Take care,

Khae

A report is left on Raiden's desk

When: 15/08/18, 20:00
Where: Bogs of Desolation

Organiser: Khaelieth, Citizen
Soldiery in attendance:
- Tingleith
- Saerandir
- Thomas Aylmer
- Elizabeth Martin

Civilians in attendance:
- Axiana
- Geraldine
- Sabina Jarrett
- Dwral Nalhig
- Sarah Keres
- Crowley Graves
- Jarvis Miller
- Dalla

The expedition mustered at the barracks, with the people gathered informed of the task at hand. We quickly set out for the Bogs of Desolation, with the Corporal Elizabeth Martin taking point with the soldiers. The guards kept us safe, ploughing through ogres, ettins, and other Guardian spawn until we reached the Bogs. Realising we had some stragglers, guards were sent back to recover them, which was done without no incident. However, it is worth mentioning this could've had fatal results and deserves special consideration.

We then headed south-east along the bog to the sea, whereupon we reached the plot prepared for the cabin. While some civilians and soldiers set out to gather lumber, others gathered kindling and food, which the chefs prepared. Geraldine kept the worst hunger pangs away with cookies while keeping morale up.

Shortly after, with resources gathered, Sarah and Dwral started building the foundations and hardwood floor with great success. We then sat down at the table and partook in an exquisite meal of game, fish, and strong cider. Our work done, we headed back, with excess resources loaded on the pack horses and brought back to Cove.

Khaelieth



[OOC: Any suggestions for better image adding?]

[OOC: couldn't find it described elsewhere, what exactly is in survival kits, basic medical supplies, and rations?]

[Where:]

Where: Barracks.
Bring: Hatchets, cooking utensils, tools of your trade, foodstuffs.

In an attempt to put the Bogs of Desolation under firm Baronial control and the road to Britain under increased scrutiny to guard for smugglers from Britain, a small log cabin is to be built near the bogs. We will need civilians to make food, do some carpenting, gather additional resources, map the region, and administrate the indentured servants soldiers.

When: 10/08/18, 19:00
Where: Beergarden

Commanding Officer: Geraldine, Granny
Covians in attendance:
- Tingleith
- Avalynn Vale
- Saerandir
- Khaelieth
- Carolin
- Aralin Areocia
- Leanne Melior

Khaelieth smiled at the man opposite him.
"It was a most uplifting event. No tea in the ocean, like what sometimes happens in the more barbaric and uncivilised parts of the world."
Khaelieth took a sip of his wine, his hand trembling slightly.
"There was some gossip - Tingleith spoke of her slavery and love for orcs, who were her serendipitous saviours. Most disgusting, such behaviour." His opposite nodded.
"Saerandir apparently has father issues. I hear that is much liked among human males as a female trait, but too me it just seems odd. His father changed his son's name to something like "bitter dung beetle," Khaelieth continued.
"That sounds a bit... strange," replied the man, sipping his wine thoughtfully.
Khaelieth nodded.
"Well, Avalynn, a grenadier, was apparently injured in an explosion in Church caused by someone firing a cannon of all things. From what I could gather, her explosion potions did what they were made for, but while they were still on her person. She is... rather burnt."
"Rather unlucky. How did that even happen?" was the reply.
"I... I have no idea. Honest. Seems that lot of them have suffered somewhat, either in youth or recently. Aralin is a runaway noble. Seems to hate her own kind to a degree."
The man nodded.
"Geraldine, the organiser, has just arrived from Britain. She prefers the quaint provincial life, but in my opinion, Cove is no provincial town these days. 'Tis a military power."
His opposite nodded, draining his glass.



[OOC: Please let me know if you were there, but I didn't put your name there. I am working from memory and think I might've missed someone.]

Kneeling in front of the grave, the figure let the shovel fall. The seeds he had planted in the soil, though not visible even in the light of the dancing Wisps and lantern, would soon break through the soil. The Bloodfire, the rare flower that would only grow in blood-rich soil, would be first to grow and first to blossom. Sighing, the figure got to his feet, wiping at the blood running in a gentle stream from his nose. His eye twitched as a shadow passed over his eyes. The gentle blue-green light of the wisps reflected on the traveller's sun-tanned, but drawn face, making the blood seem black in the ghostly light.



He didn't feel sad, he thought, dabbing at his nose with a handkerchief. Maybe a degree of melancholy. He was less affected by his baser emotions, as if there was a veil between him and them. It was freeing, in a way, though he imagined should feel guilty about that, especially granted the magnitude of emotion he should feel at this moment. While the world was greyer, it was also clearer. A sense of clarity filled him. Duty. That's what he felt. And a calling. It was sometimes difficult these days, gathering his thoughts.

He pinched the bridge of his nose and closed his eyes, concentrating. His thoughts felt scattered somehow, though he managed to keep them together. It was getting better, he thought. It was an apt spot he had chosen. Sacrifice. He could almost hear the sound of water through the forest. He had always liked this place and remembered that he had often come here for meditation.

Had it been worth it? The cost had been steep, in the end. He was, however, sane and alive. That alone was uplifting. And his talents were undiminished, and in some aspects greater. However, he did feel old. Much of what had been second nature now felt like clutching at shadows. Could he have done something different? Probably. But would that have had other outcomes? He had never trusted the tarot-witches of the gypsies, but maybe... No. Therein madness certainly lies, and there was something about sleeping dogs.

Saying a brief blessing, more out of sense of custom and respect, the man kissed his fingers and placed them on the ground. The wanderer turned, the wind catching his dark cloak, whipping it behind him as he disappeared into the darkness.

It should be "its doors"

 

CkY's pretty decent, not my favourite, so 4/5.

Vixen - Edge of a Broken Heart

Kas, I managed to get my paws on a leopard print jacket and faux leather wet-look tights! You have no idea how awesome it is when combined with leopard print scarves, spiked belts, make-up, bandana etc!

3.5/5 I'd give that for what it is. Sounds too much like Schlager though, for me!

This one is specially for Kelly, though not my usual taste =)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aA4seB6ou8

4/5 for hilarity and decent riffs!

Steel Panther - Death To All But Metal