WAAAAGH! assault Elshout

Shortley after leaving Yomi, I recieved word of a planned attack on AN by the WAAAAGH!.

At roughly 11:45AM SLT, I arrived in Elshout alongside approximately 8 Orks and other creatures from Warhammer 40k. As I shouted my innocence and took refuge in AN’s Japanese garden, the battle was underway.

As the explosions and WAAAGH battle cries increased in volume, I took a peek out of the dome, to see many Orks and ‘Sqigs’ converging on my position.

To my horror, a quick cam downstairs showed approximatly 3 Orks approaching the airlocks to the dome, much to the equal dismay of the guarding AN personnel.

After abruptly being shot by a fairlight weapon, wielded by a defender of AN, (not an AN member but one helping them), I found refuge in the destroyed ship at the hub.

After deeming another roam over to my Japanese sanctuary in vain, I observed the assault more. The WAAAAGH enterd the airlocks approcimatly 4 times, but never once made it past the thin corrider guarded by the AN members.

As AN’s air defences kicked in, the WAAAAGH were under immense fire from the approaching aircraft, so much so that the field was abrumptly cleared of the Orks, so the next swarm could proceed. The WAAAAGH continued firing back at the aircraft, to a minor avail.

Exploding ’squigs’ were the meal of the day for AN personnel. Explosions could be heard throughout the sim, alongside the distant war chants and ‘WAAAAGH’ battle cries.

While AN continued to increase the AD support, the WAAAAGH had a weapon of its own: “The Ork Kopta”. As the two Orks boarded the craft, they were subject to immense bullet spray, yet still they opened fire and survived for at least two minutes!

As I was killed again by a stray bullet, I retreated from Elshout and let the rest of the battle unfold in peace. The WAAAAGH have done it again! A good clean fight for all. Any comments?

[WAAAAGH!] – Something Completely New

Today, a good friend of mine alerted me of the news that the ‘WAAAAGH!’, a group of fellow-minded builders, and Warhammer 40k fans alike, that have set up base on the sim of ‘Yomi’.

The group that have been known to attack popular militaries within the community, have established a fun-filled sim for pure combat – no drama allowed. While many have tried to set up similar dedications, I believe that the WAAAAGH actually have the follow up to progress with this moral standing, and from my experiences with them; they are a bundle of laff’s, and seem to really enjoy mucking around, while being fair all the same.

A view of Yomi.

After contacting Flea Bussy, he was kind enough to let the others give me a tour around the sim. The full sim, (15000 prims) consists of a network of underground caves, and a series of overground buildings including an armoury and various watch towers to observe the land as a whole. A fellow WAAAAGH member told me that they try and keep all the combat to the tunnels, as that is the most enjoyable. While the owners could lower the water level to make it easier to see in the caves, they refuse to so as to add a more realistic ‘fog of war’ effect.

A tunnel at Yomi.

I am sure that the WAAAAGHers will become a great group, and adapt well into the community, with their weaponry and spirit for all things fun. A member described the group as ‘A group of builders making combat in SL for the fun.’

You can visit the WAAAAGH at Yomi, and try and take their base!

Reaction to the Alliance Navy’s Leadership Shift

While the recent events surrounding Former Admiral Jim Herbst have gained the attention of many in the Second Life military community, this was merely one part of a variety of events which seem to be changing the very face of Alliance Navy, for better or for worse. From the changes in leadership that have taken place to the new, yet uncertain alliances that have been the topic of much speculation, the Alliance Navy has been the focus of recent news. As all of these events take place, there seem to be a very wide variety of opinions regarding the Alliance Navy’s current situation and future.

In order to take a look at a sample of the opinions regarding these recent events, I have interviewed Alliance Navy Admiral Jason Backer, an anonymous but experienced member of the Merczateers, and an anonymous member of the Alliance Navy of similar status. Each gave a different opinion as to the Alliance Navy’s current situation.

The first question I asked was as to what positive effects, if any, the recent events have had upon the Alliance Navy. Admiral Back felt that resurgent membership was one positive aspect of the Alliance Navy’s status over the past month, referring to “former members coming back, with new faces too.” In contrast, the anonymous member of the Alliance Navy felt that little positive had come out the recent events, noting that “the recent events have taken their toll on the AN.” The anonymous Merczateer felt that the recent changes granted the Alliance Navy an opportunity for a “fresh start”, in terms of both politics and development.

The second question asked was as to the negative effects of the recent events on the Alliance Navy. Admiral Backer was quick to answer that the worst aspect of the recent events was “the way the Jim situation went down. Shouldn’t have happened.” Admiral Backer clarified that what went wrong was the result of “abrupt decisions” made by “a few sandy vaginas.” Admiral Backer avoided clarifying who specifically he was referring to, noting that “that’s being dealt with via the appropriate channels and not in the press.”

Alliance Navy Admiral Jason Backer

The anonymous member of the Alliance Navy replied that the loss of Jim as a primary leader of the Alliance Navy had the greatest negative impact, commenting that “a huge chunk of our history has just died.” The anonymous member of the Merczateers felt that the events of the past month have had a more broad impact, saying that as a result of events over the past year, “the Alliance Navy has dropped out of “The big three”, which consisted of The Ordo Imperialis, Merczateers, and them.”

Each participant was then asked as to the Alliance Navy’s possible future, with each giving different responses. Admiral Backer was optimistic, commenting that “the future looks bright, with the pruning of the rosebud it will allow growth to increase in the coming days. I cannot think of one thing I am overly concerned of.”

He also noted, however, that nothing is for certain, citing the changes that have occurred over the past year as a reminder that history in Second Life is often fickle. The anonymous Alliance Navy member expressed similar sentiments, saying that the new Alliance Navy High Command “make a perfect team to lead the Alliance Navy to a bigger and brighter future.”

Alliance Navy Soldier Defending Elshout

The anonymous member of the Merczateers, however, was not so optimistic for the Alliance Navy, saying that he sees the Alliance Navy “crashing and burning before summer,” adding “I see things only getting worse.”

As was evident in the interviews, there is no single consensus as to the Alliance Navy’s current status or as to it’s future. One can only hope that the events and politics of the upcoming year prove to be just as interesting and dynamic as they seem they will be.

-Scientific Waffle

Adeptus Minor to return to the scene.

For those readers who were active in the community a few months back, you will remember the day Adeptus Minor lost their sim, and ‘disbanded’, shortly after the joint CS and Vanguard assault.

As confirmed by CaptCuddles Boa, the leader of the former Adeptus Minor, the tinee commanded military is to return to the military scene within the next week, so I am told.

After a long-winded conversation with Cuddles, I set out to discover what we can expect from the reformed Adeptus Minor. Well, alongside a full fledged renamed homestead sim, we can expect new armour, new leadership, and potentially more members than before.

Remember to Comment! The Journal will keep you all updated when AM is up and running!

An Interview with Jim Herbst, Former Leader of the Alliance Navy

I spoke recently with the former leader of the Alliance Navy about where he stands now in the combat community, and what the future of the Alliance Navy will be in wake of recent developments.  We had a good discussion covering a lot of ground about his reasons for leaving and rejoining the group, as well as what the still very possible admission of the Alliance Navy into the Iron Symphony could mean for combat in Second Life.

———-

Jim Herbst: Hello.

Caine Constantine: Hey Jim, how is it going?

Jim Herbst: Alright, wanted to catch you up on a few things.

Caine Constantine: Yeah, quite a new years surprise, haha.

Jim Herbst: The AN, almost as an entire group, collectively IM’d me and begged me to return.
Jim Herbst: It wasn’t the surprise.
Jim Herbst: The IS thing was going to be the suprise!
Jim Herbst: And you went on and spoiled it!

Caine Constantine: hahaha

Jim Herbst: So yeah, I filed an AFFP, it was unanimously voted yes on, and I am going to once again be in the Alliance Navy, albeit at a lower rank.

Caine Constantine: So what prompted all of this?

Jim Herbst: It’s not the public’s concern. Personal reasons.
Jim Herbst: But it’s in the past now.

Caine Constantine: Ahh, alright.

Jim Herbst: As his first act, CFC Vanbrugh promoted Jason Backer to A-1.
Jim Herbst: I had a long chat with Jason, and he will be a fine Admiral worthy of the Title.

Caine Constantine: So Bizcut and Jason are both co leaders?

Jim Herbst: As for the details of my return, I am coming back as a Recruit. It sounds demeaning, but it’s how the AN does things, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.
Jim Herbst: Nah
Jim Herbst: Bizcut is the leader, Jason is the second in command.
Jim Herbst: Jason quoted Rudyard Kipling, concerning the AN’s “no free rides” stance, and I think it fits pretty well.
Jim Herbst: If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breathe a word about your loss;

Caine Constantine: I see.  So do you think the alliance will happen?

Jim Herbst: I’m no longer in a position to make an official statement, BUT, ANHC is in favor of the idea, but for the time being wishes to focus on internal matters before moving ahead with it.

Caine Constantine: A lot of people have asked about what it will mean for combat in Second Life if the three largest and most well structured groups are all allies.  Do you think it would be a good thing for everyone or that it might stifle combat?

Jim Herbst: Well, the thing a lot of people (who have been intoduced to combat after the fact) don’t know is it’s happened before.
Jim Herbst: I’ll give you a pic, one sec.
Jim Herbst: There’s the whole folder, pick which one suits your tastes.

Caine Constantine: Yes – but didn’t that cause a lot of boredom for everyone involved with nobody to fight?

Jim Herbst: Not really, what caused it to collapse the first time was the sudden disbanding of the Ordo, which really started the ball rolling for a lot of the mentality that arose in the coming months.
Jim Herbst: DURING the alliance, it basically went like this – it was us. AN, Ordo, Mercz. and some minor other groups, vs the rest of SL.
Jim Herbst: True moreso today than back then, “rest of SL” is a good portion of the community.
Jim Herbst: But the IS leaders don’t see it that way, not this time.

Caine Constantine: Who is there left for your groups to fight, as far as you know?

Jim Herbst: Easy answer.
Jim Herbst: The Commonwealth.
Jim Herbst: As well as the fact the IS wants to really crank up the arranged inter-ally combat.

Caine Constantine: Ahh, I see

Jim Herbst: the main goal of the IS is not to become the kings of SL combat
Jim Herbst: it’s to make SL combat *better*

Caine Constantine: I believe the AN banned the Ordo Imperialis from its sim recently.  Is this still active?

Jim Herbst: Yes it is, but it’s about issues not relating directly to in-combat conduct.
Jim Herbst: and, I’m so relieved I get to say this
Jim Herbst: it’s above my pay grade to provide a substantive answer as to what the future of our relations with the Ordo will be.

Caine Constantine: haha
Caine Constantine: Do you think that the Commonwealth will really provide a substantive challenge to the Iron Symphony with the Alliance Navy in it?

Jim Herbst: It really depends.
Jim Herbst: You’ve been up to date on the polls on your site?

Caine Constantine: Yeah.
Caine Constantine: Not that they’re a scientific source or anything.

Jim Herbst: I’ll let those speak for themselves, I can’t touch those arguments with a 10 foot pole.
Jim Herbst: It’s too messy.

Caine Constantine: I know what you mean.
Caine Constantine: I heard at one point you were considering joining the Merczateers.  Was this the case until the request that you rejoin the AN?

Jim Herbst: It was moreso rumor formed out of my own speculation as to what the hell I was going to do
Jim Herbst: I was considering it as an option, just as much as I was considering uninstalling SL and never looking back.

Caine Constantine: Ahh, understood.  So – if you have any thoughts on the subject then, past simply rejoining the AN, what are you going to do?  Planning to stay very involved or just logging in occasionally?

Jim Herbst: I will be out of the spotlight for now, hopefully.
Jim Herbst: I’ll have more time to focus on my real life and such. Little advice, if you’re losing sleep over what is happening on the internet, you’re doing it wrong.

Caine Constantine: Hahaha
Caine Constantine: Good point.
Caine Constantine: Would you mind if I posted this conversation on the Journal as an update to our stories on the AN leadership change, or would you prefer not?

Jim Herbst: Go ahead.

Caine Constantine: Thanks Jim.  Have a good night.

Jim Herbst: You too.

———-

So with the leadership firmly establishing itself in Elshout, it seems that the most interesting question surrounding the whole event still remains whether the Alliance Navy will join the Iron Symphony, and if it does, what this could mean for combat in Second Life if it does indeed come to pass.

According to Jim Herbst and others, the possibility of this happening is at least very real.  We will be exploring this question in depth in an upcoming report.

-Caine Constantine

Press Release and Comments from the Alliance Navy’s New Leader

This press release was drafted by the Alliance Navy, and is meant to inform the Second Life combat community about the changes in the group that have so quickly surprised many of us.  It starts and ends between these two dividing lines.

———-

“I am sure by now that most of you know or at least have been told that there have been some major changes in the ranks of the high command. Jim Herbst has stepped down from his position as the leader of the Alliance Navy of his own choice. I would like to thank Jim for his years of service and dedication to the Alliance Navy. It will be hard to fill his shoes.

I(Bizcut Vanbrugh) have taken on the role as the 1st in command of the AN.

Bizcut Vanbrugh - the new leader of the Alliance Navy

I will not lie I am nervous assuming command of one of the oldest militaries in Second Life. I have not had the privilege of going through what other leaders have gone through, but I count that as a plus not a minus. Jason Backer will be moving up as the 2nd in command of the Alliance Navy and nytewynd Tuqiri will move up to take command of the Fleet Division.

As stated by the Jessie War Journal, we have been in talks with the Iron Symphony, but at this time it is not a priority for us.  But we will look at in the New Year.  It is in no means a done deal and we will be looking at our options.”

———-

After reading the press release, I spoke with a moment to Admiral Vanbrugh about the situation.  Understandably busy, we only got a moment to talk in this brief conversation.

———-

Caine Constantine: Any other comments you’d like to make with the piece or on the situation?

Caine Constantine: And also – do you plan to stay as 1IC for the foreseeable future?

Bizcut Vanbrugh: I will remain the first in command for the foreseeable future, and as for comments its all been pretty much covered in those.

Bizcut Vanbrugh: I am trying to get a handle on our assets and liabilities and that’s a nightmare.

Bizcut Vanbrugh: But our plans are to get the AN back to the forefront of the SL combat community.

Bizcut Vanbrugh: We don’t have a exact road map yet, but we are working on it.

Caine Constantine: Alright Bizcut – best of luck to you and if I can help in any way just shoot me an IM.

Bizcut Vanbrugh: Thanks.

———-

And so with a mission before him, Bizcut Vanbrugh has to hit the ground running to be sure.  He has a group to reinforce and two alliances – or unilateral existence – to choose from.  Whatever the case, the next few weeks will surely be interesting in how the story continues to unfold.

-Caine Constantine

Chthonic Syndicate given a Christmas gift.

Yesterday, Christmas Day, those CS members that logged on were said to have recieved a group notice from the Admiral, Mayra Roffo, directing them to the armoury, where new armour was waiting for them.

The new armour maintains CS’s constant equipment and base theme of glowing blue on black, and I was told they even issued variants for female avatars and even furry’s.

A CS Officer parading the new armour.

Jim Herbst Leaving the Alliance Navy – and the Alliance Navy joining the Iron Symphony?

It would appear that an era of combat in Second Life is coming to an abrupt and unexpected end.  Jim Herbst, the leader of the Alliance Navy for years, has left the group.

Jim Herbst has left the Alliance Navy groups and appears to be planning a move to the Merczateers.

And more startlingly, he may soon be joining the Merczateers and bringing his military with him to some degree.

Anthony Lehane: Jim Herbst left AN.

Caine Constantine: Wow
Caine Constantine: He told me he had a big announcement.
Caine Constantine: That’s it I guess?

Anthony Lehane: Hes joining Mercz I think.

Caine Constantine: Wow
Caine Constantine: And starting from the ground up?

Anthony Lehane: I think so.

Caine Constantine: Wow
Caine Constantine: Pretty surprising.
Caine Constantine: I heard he was trying to ally AN with you guys too.

Anthony Lehane: Yea
Anthony Lehane: They’re probably still going to.
Anthony Lehane: hes in Mercz vent right now,
Anthony Lehane: Talking to everyone.

Caine Constantine: Who runs the group now?
Anthony Lehane: Bizcut Vanbrugh.

As it turns out, in fact, the militaries have been in talks about the Alliance Navy joining the Iron Symphony for days.  By the word of the leadership of the alliance, it is all but inevitable, although some in the Alliance Navy are questioning ending the war against their historic foe.

Interestingly enough – the new alliance, should it happen, poses an interesting question.  With more militaries joining into the alliance structure, and many others finding survival difficult in an era of increasing tier on void sims – often the only sims they can afford – will combat in Second Life be vibrant when the three largest militaries on the grid, the Alliance Navy, Ordo Imperialis, and Merczateers, are once again allied together and at peace?

Comment and send your thoughts as we keep you posted on the story.  Details are coming in and things could change as the situation unfolds, so please stay tuned.

-Caine Constantine

The New German Army – And Old Criticisms of Spartan Bans

[17:22]  Jackal Menizah: Ten minutes ago.
[17:22]  Jackal Menizah: I ran in completely unarmed to negotiate the unban of a leader in the NGA.

[17:04]  Greeter: Welcome to Spartan Military Installation Lambda Alpha, home of the Spartans of Second Life. Please take the time to read over the notices posted in the telehub so that you know what is allowed here. Civilians are not allowed inside the base, except for the village, and are not to be armed. If you do not disarm, you will be shot

[17:04]  Bruno Ziskey ejected and banned you from this land.
[17:04]  You are no longer allowed here and have 15 seconds to leave.

[17:08] Bruno Ziskey: Bruno is currently busy running Sparta and his own life. If you are calling to whine, bitch and moan to him, please hang up now. If you are calling to ask him to unban you, stay on the line and enjoy the blissful On Hold music.

A rather arbitrary ban scheme, it would seem.

Oh look, more account issues.

Okay, somebody out there doesn’t like me.

I will now be operating on ‘Metallicoe Keng’.

I am not going to protest anymore against my previous accounts, thus am fairly certain I cannot be banned again.

Thanks for all your support.

[Poll Results] Which military holds the spammiest weapons?

The most recent poll to the Journal has run its course for over a month now, and gathered an overwhelming 241 votes!

From the results below, we can see that 35%of Journal readers think that GR hold the spammiest weapons. While no viable conclusion can be made, make sure you answer our latest poll: Which military is the most accurate? This meaning which military uses single bullet line weaponry to tacticaly take down the opposition. At last! A positive poll on the journal, I hear you say!

Guerilla Rebels	88 35%
Sparta	31 12%
Merczateers	23 9%
Ordo Imperialis	21 8%
10th Mtn. Division	11 4%
Alliance Navy	11 4%
2142	11 4%
Chthonic Syndicate	9 4%
Echelon Union	7 3%
Militant Collective	6 2%
39th Black Watch	6 2%
Commando SL (CSL)	5 2%
Dominatium	5 2%
Task Force Marines	4 2%
Mercenaries	3 1%
SCS	1 0%
TCG	8 3%

The Journal Wiki.

Dear Readers,

I am proud to announce the Jessie War Journal Wiki.

The ‘wiki’ is a page, found at the top of this page with a list of military information. Although the page is not an official wiki, we hope to treat it like one, with constantly updating information on miltiaries, treaties and alike. If you would like to contribute to the wiki, please contact Metallicoe Galaxy.

Also, if you are considering changing militaries, take a look at our recruitment page, and also the militaries listed within the wiki.

Regards,

Metallicoe Galaxy

Metallicoe Dezno

Metallicoe Oller

-The Journal Editor

Yet more account issues.

Yes, I am having more issues with my account.

You can now contact me on the account ‘Metallicoe Galaxy’.

Apparently, I ‘hacked another residents account.’

I hope to get through this. Thanks for your support!

Alliance Navy Rebuilding their base.

Yesterday, an unidentified AN member dropped me a hint that I should hang around Elshout on Friday and watch the demolition. I have the intention of doing this, but with no specific time mentioned, I turned up at 6:20am, after all the festivities were over.

In Elshout, I was greeted with the sight of a bare sim, with only one building under construction.

Elshout at 0620 hours.

After establishing that one Luca Vasilopita was the highest ranked online, I asked him some questions;

Metallicoe: Hello Luca, I am reporting on AN’s sim changes for the Jessie War Journal, is it alright if i ask you a few questions to gather some more information?

Luca: Sure, ask away.

Metallicoe: Fantastic. So, who’s decision was it to change the sim?

Luca: Well, it was a fairly unanimous decision by High Command that we change the base.

Metallicoe: May I ask for the reasoning behind the rebuild? Design flaws perhaps? Or was it just getting old?

Luca: Change is nice. Tier fees being increased has something to do with it too.

Metallicoe: How so?

Luca: The Alliance Navy cannot support two or three sims based upon donations. It’s just that the old design was built with more than one sim in mind, thus it was huge. Without that, we’re downscaling to more open combat type setup.

Metallicoe: So when did building commence?

Luca: The base was actually meant to be started at 1300 today, but since we started early it’s going to be a building site for a little while longer.

Metallicoe: So, what does AN have planned? What can we expect from Elshout once all is done?

Luca: Rightio, we’re looking at a sort of asteroid base meets front lines thing. It’s going to be heavily influenced from Starship Troopers and The Forever War in terms of style and idea.

At this point, I googled “The Forever War” in a hurry, so as not to seem uninformed. For those like me who do not know what “The Forever War” is, here’s a quick summary from Wikipedia:

“The Forever War is a 1974 science fiction novel by Joe Haldeman. It won the Nebula Award in 1975 and the Hugo Award in 1976. Both an action-laden and contemplative story of an interstellar war between humanity and the enigmatic Tauran species, it deals with themes like the inhumanity of both war and its attendant bureaucracy, as well as with the results of time dilation space travel which may cause a soldier to return to his home only after centuries have gone by.”

The future alliance navy? (Forever War Model Concepts)

Well then, now we all know. Take a look at the images search too, here. Back to the interview after that momentary rant. (:D)

Metallicoe: So the base will be spread across underground, ground and sky?

Luca: Yes. We’re going to be combining elements like space stations and asteroid bases with things like underground bunkers. With any luck it should make for a very ‘different’ look for us.

Metallicoe: Yes, so will you be issuing new Armour to match the ‘Spacey’ theme?

Luca: Well, we’ve already been augmenting our new release of uniforms with more ’space’ based gear. For instance the EVA helmet that is now issued out to all divisions as an option, and the sealed skinsuit.

Metallicoe: Anything more to mention? Will the Mech I reported on be released when the base is complete, perhaps?

Luca: We can only hope. There’s still alot to do, but we want to have this base up and running at least by the end of tomorrow.

Metallicoe: Sounds great! Thanks for your time.

The new base idea all sounds very interesting, and I myself was shocked at the ‘Get up and go’ attitude expressed by Luca, to get all complete in only a day! (Tomorrow) We will post another entry when the sim is up and running.

Comment your views!

JeanCyril Wise tries to censor The Jessie War Journal

The Jessie War Journal is proud to say that it’s hitting the big leagues – today it faced its first halfwitted threat of legal action if it does not immediately impose censorship on our reader’s comments!

JeanCyril Wise, leader of the Commando SL military forces, decided he did not like the comments some of our readers made in response to the article about the new German Army’s potential fascist ties.

The Jessie War Journal just hit the big leagues when JeanCyril Wise, pictured above, tried to threaten us with the law.

I don’t like threats.  People who think they’ve got some real interwebs power have been threatening New Jessie since our founding, and this person, who I previously sympathized with as the leader of a group constantly berated and savaged by public opinion, just showed why he is viewed in the way he is.

Remember everyone, I am a staunch believer in liberal democracy and capitalism, and I think fascism and communism are the worst ideas people have ever had.  But everyone still deserves their right to speak them regardless.

Enjoy Mr. JeanCyril Wise’s attempts to censor The Jessie War Journal because a couple of goofy people posted some pro-Nazi commentary on the comments page.  Yeah I am standing up for the right for Nazis to speak.  But if you REALLY believe in free speech, then you believe in it for everyone.  Even them.

Thank you and enjoy,
Caine Constantine
————————————————————

JeanCyril Wise: hi
JeanCyril Wise: I have to point out an important issue with your website.

Caine Constantine: Hey Jean
Caine Constantine: Sure
Caine Constantine: what’s up?

JeanCyril Wise: this thread
JeanCyril Wise: http://thejessiewarjournal.wordpress.com/2008/12/13/further-investigation-into-benny/#comments
JeanCyril Wise: is falling into illegality by allowing pro-nazi content
JeanCyril Wise: maybe you select better the comments

Caine Constantine: Pro nazi content is illegal?
Caine Constantine: Not in my country.
Caine Constantine: They can say what they like.

JeanCyril Wise: Linden Labs has offices in Europe

Caine Constantine: LL doesn’t run my site.

JeanCyril Wise: this is illegal and a bad image for SL combat

Caine Constantine: And besides, censoring unpleasant history is ridiculous, all it does is keep it from being discussed.

JeanCyril Wise: weather you remove the nazi stuff, weather I act on it

Caine Constantine: Are you speaking about the two pro nazi comments?
Caine Constantine: Are you threatening me?

JeanCyril Wise: I fight for democraty and freedom

Caine Constantine: Then you’d fight for everyone’s right to be heard.
Caine Constantine: Even fascists.
Caine Constantine: And communists.
Caine Constantine: And other fools.
Caine Constantine: Everyone gets a say.

JeanCyril Wise: if you support Nazi stuff, I will make it public

Caine Constantine: I don’t support any Nazi images.  You are supporting censorship and you can keep your foo foo Frenchie threats to yourself.

JeanCyril Wise: this has nothing to do with censorship

Caine Constantine: Yes it does.
Caine Constantine: You are trying to censor the viewpoints of people commenting on our site.
Caine Constantine: Because you disagree with it.
Caine Constantine: That is censorship.

JeanCyril Wise: Nazi Regime has been condemn by international law

Caine Constantine: So?  International law means we cannot have people talk about it?

JeanCyril Wise: The Nazi salute is illegal in many countries and you publish it on your website

Caine Constantine: So what?  In countries that believe in free speech for all viewpoints, it is not against the law.

JeanCyril Wise: As you wish, I tried

Caine Constantine: Do what you want, but nobody will side with you.
Caine Constantine: You can’t stop free speech no matter how much you whine.

JeanCyril Wise: Nazi has never been free speech

Caine Constantine: What do you mean?

JeanCyril Wise: don’t confuse Nazism with freedom

Caine Constantine: So people who believe in that should not be allowed to speak?

JeanCyril Wise: no, it’s illegal

Caine Constantine: Maybe in parts of the world that cannot face their history, but in the rest of the world, where all points of view can be represented, it’s legal.

Caine Constantine: And I don’t make policy based on international laws.

JeanCyril Wise: promoting mass killing of others is illegal

Caine Constantine: And we’re doing that how?
Caine Constantine: By exposing pictures of a Nazi?

JeanCyril Wise: not the pic
JeanCyril Wise: but allowing the pro-nazi comments

Caine Constantine: God forbid we let everyone speak!  They’re probably just kids out for lulz anyway.

JeanCyril Wise: God don’t support racist mass massacre

Caine Constantine: Should we censor the Soviets then, for killing off millions of Ukrainians in the 1930s famines?
Caine Constantine: And for their crimes of the gulags?

JeanCyril Wise: yes also

Caine Constantine: Should we censor the Chinese Communists for their crimes?

JeanCyril Wise: I agree
JeanCyril Wise: yes

Caine Constantine: Should we censor France for its crimes in Vietnam and Algeria, oppressing free people?
Caine Constantine: And promoting colonial conquest around the world?
Caine Constantine: Should they be censored?

JeanCyril Wise: anyone who support warcrimes, racism, mass killings must be sentenced

Caine Constantine: So then we should censor essentially every country in the world – including your French, who raped and murdered thousands of Africans and Southeast Asians.

JeanCyril Wise: I leave the justice to act
JeanCyril Wise: the fact is that Nazism is illegal by justice

Caine Constantine: Do whatever you want.  Nobody likes you anyway.  The fact is that in America it ain’t illegal, and I am not going to take someone’s free speech away because your people make laws against it because they can’t handle the fact that the Nazis crushed them into humiliating surrender in a matter of weeks, and needed the rest of the world to save them.
Caine Constantine: So have fun with your threats.
Caine Constantine: Everyone will enjoy this conversation I am sure.

JeanCyril Wise: It’s a very knowledgeable conversation, for sure

Caine Constantine: Definitely.

————————————————————

So what do you think?  Am I wrong for standing up to the idea of censoring history, or would we be better off simply forgetting our species and its bloody past?  Of course, wouldn’t you think that the maxim that “those who do not learn their history are doomed to repeat it” would apply to the subjects he wanted to suppress?

Please comment and tell us what you think about the debate!

Further investigation into benny.

Today, after reading my report on the German Military,  Neil Nieuport, a fellow comrade alerted me of a story that Caine wrote in the Herald a while back about the former TFM. It showed, bennyboy Ball’s previous account, jaws Ashby, parading the Nazi emblem on his uniform!

Caine wrote “Was this group – purporting to be based on the same Marines that helped kick Hitler into the dustbin of history – run by one of Hitler’s online fan club? The corruption does not stop here either.”

So, does Benny have a thing for Nazi-ism? The base at Zaralona Land is already under construction, as shown below.

I caught up with Drwho blinker, a TFM officer. He told me that there is no ‘new military’, and that it is not TFM’s sim anymore. He told me they were to get a new sim. Apparently, people ‘Stole their sim’. In response to this, I alerted him to bennys profile which read

‘Military:Deutsch Elite Krafte.
Rank: Fuhrer
Alliance: Sovereign Regime’

[6:17]  Drwho Blinker: wtf
[6:17]  Drwho Blinker: bens a bitch
[6:17]  Drwho Blinker: i’m going to tell the group

So, was benny keeping his own men in the dark? Is this a new VG? Benny has made all the groups, and we can only wait and see what happens next. After telling him I was a reporter, Drwho called be a bitch and refused to answer anymore questions. Next, Drwho employes childish tactics of launching me up to 4000m. Jeeze, TFM has really gone downhill!

Oh, one other thing. They have some weapon givers set up that read “German G36″ etc. Well then. Drwho said he would order other armies not to talk to me, hehe, he is a funny character. Oh, he also called me a ‘git’, very grown up. Just an overgrown Dr Who fanatic, I think. From now on, benny’s alt, ilol hax is in charge of the TFM group.

Comment below on the griefing and all else!

Benny’s turned German.

Bennyboy ball, debated english commander, has changed TFM into a German Milita. Could this be a take off of Vanguard Armed Forces, or a harsh joke: or is it the real deal? The ‘Deutsch Eltie Krafte’ have a group led by benny, and use TFM’s sim, now renamed, at Zaralona Land. What do you think? Benny was reported to have randomly returned the TFM base, just as it had been finished, much to the horror of the TFM builders. Even the TFM members don’t know what’s going on! Could the Republic Of Germany return?

The GEK flag flying high.

Account Issues

Dear Readers,

I’m having some issues with my account, Metallicoe Dezno, so i will be using Metallicoe Oller from now on.

Thank you for your support, i don’t know what’s happening!!!

-Metallicoe Oller

The New Journal Editor

An Apology

Dear Readers,

I would like to apologize to you all, for the lack of stories published recently. This is due to my new ventures, eating up my time, including the new ‘Combat Expo’ opening tomorrow. (Will let you all know) I am going to get back into the swing of writing again, although any help would be greatly appreciated, so remember you can be paid 500L$ for every story you write!

Keep reading, hang in there,

Metallicoe Dezno

The Journal Editor

Merczateers provides Holiday Gift Pack for community.

By Anthony Lehane
Hey everyone, Anthony Lehane here.

The SL Military community sure can be a odd one. After nearly four years of being a prominent member I know that all to well. This December hopefully I’d like to make a little sense of it, and what better time to do so than the Holidays?

Sadly, we bicker, we fight, and disagree. Some of us try hard to unify the community, but some of us are detremental to it. This community is so dynamic and complicated that it’s inevidable. However if you look at this logically, forget all of the complicated bits – it is vital to understand that we all belong to a family, as it takes a certain person to truly appreciate what combat in Second Life allows us to make possible.

Behind the monitors we are all human beings who enjoy what we do here in Second Life, and it is this common interest that puts us on the same side at the end of the day. I urge you to consider that this underlying camaraderie means we should never engage one another with the intent to harm, humiliate, and destroy, but rather to appreciate our fellow combatants that make this community possible. But I will save the rest of this for another day.

This December myself and many Merczateers took the initiative to put together a rather large Holiday Gift Pack, to distribute to all in appreciation of this community. The Holidays bring people together, and it should here as well.

The Gift Pack we’ve put together contains well over a hundred items, all of high quality, and many of which were made specifically for the pack. Inside you’ll find anything from a fully scripted TIE Fighter to a fully sculpted Pimp Suit, complete with cane.

The vendors to collect the items will be placed at popular public places for our community. You can be sure to find one at New Jessie and the Merczateers hub at Salamis. We will be also making an effort to place them in other group’s headquarters if we are given permission to do so.

You can benefit the community yourself this Holiday Season too. Next time you fight one of your adversaries, after the fight IM them. Tell them you appreciate the fight, good game, and you look forward to the next time you can do it again, and mean it. Even if you are not in the Iron Symphony, you can still make efforts to unify this torn community.

Thank you for reading, and happy holidays!

~Márshal Merczateers Anthony Lehane

The Merczateers gift.

Merczateers assaulted by Alliance Navy

In an action-packed series of events, I was alerted today of an assault targeted towards Salamis, home of the Merczateers, by the recently debated Alliance Navy.

As I arrived on the scene, I had a quick chat with a passing AN officer, wielding his shotgun on his shoulder. He told me that Alliance Navy were assaulting the Mercateers very effectively, and it has started as a good clean fight for all parties. After my brief discussion, I was offered a teleport by none other than Merczateer marshal Lurdan – who planted me behind an emplacement on the merczateer secondary defensive wall – a point that many enemies rarely checkpoint at. As I alt-cammed like crazy, I was impressed at the level of fighting for all involved. The Merczateers had set up a nice system of primary and secondary defenses; the primary being the guard on the bridge, and the secondary being the wall I was planted on. As the battle progressed, AN showed great skill and determination by using the Linden land for cover, and popping out every now and then, with a few brave hearts sprinting across the bridge. Despite their best efforts, only a few made it past the Salamis/Badnarik sim line.

As I observed some more, more and more AN members were passing the bridge, to the shock of the Mercz lining the secondary defenses. As all the dots on my minimap started to converge on my position, I raised my shield and awaited the blow from the countering forces. What evolved after this was a very reputable fight, with Mercz defending very well, and Alliance Navy pushing forward with a tremendous amount of force, and succeeding in their efforts to raise a fair fight.

Towards the end of the battle, AN seemed to be gathering as one force at the hub, while the mercz took back their initial positions, to await the wrath of the presumably joint attack from AN’s members. This time, one group of AN’s took the stairs to the borders of the sim – a route neglected by most forces. AN seemed to be splitting into teams, presumably to cover more ground, and this proved very effective, even against what seemed to be outnumbering Merczateers.

An AN combatant progressing to the bridge, regardless of the merczateer seen in the right of the snapshot.

A Merczateer Mlad defending Badnarik.

A very enjoyable fight for all involved, please comment!

Could you be up for it?

Thanks to the overwhelming success of the Journal, and the many advertisers that support us: The Jessie War Journal is now paying 500L$ per report submitted by you, the readers. The report should be of reasonable length, and should include pictures. When sending the email, enter the subject as ‘Jessie Report – [Your Name]‘. In the email itself, please state clearly your name (As to be paid), name to publish (If you wish to remain anonymous) and category for your story to be in, then simply type up your report, including pictures dropped into the email client, not links please.

Email to: metallicoegears@googlemail.com

Thanks all!

-Metallicoe Dezno

The Editor

Sparta’s Power Core

Today,  I was contacted by Spartan Officer RoudyRaccoon Hand, with news of an addition coming to Second Chance in the near future. I arrived in Second Chance, and was greeted in the town by Bruno himself. After a quick chat, I received a teleport from Roudy, that led me to a skybox 600m or so in the sky. Here’s how the conversation transversed: (Spellings corrected)

Metal: Good afternoon, Roudy, whats up?

Roudy: Hey Metal! Sparta are planning a new addition to our sim: The Power Core.

Metal: Similar to CSL’s ideas? Could you tell me the history?

Roudy: Alright, I can sum it all up pretty quick. The first core concept fo SL militaries was dreamt up by me and a friend back when I was in CSL. The entire project took 3 weeks to get to a fully operating core, and around 4 weeks after the core was finished, the first defense systems came into play.

Metal: What defences were in place?

Roudy: The first defense systems were simple, two heavy armored, wall breach proof Iron doors, followed by an autokill system that was ONLY activated if you were inside the core room and the doors were still intact or closed. Soon after the CSL core was completed, Raven Raiders picked up on it and built their own, MC currently has two power cores above their base used for troops training purposes.

Metal: Alright. So, how will it work, and what will it do?

Roudy: As a power core, you might think it would run something, like our comms systems, but it won’t. It’s pure purpose is an attack objective for the enemy, and something solid for us to defend. It gives battle a meaning, and an objective besides planting pointless flags.

Metal: And how will the core work? What will happen when it is destroyed?

Roudy: When destroyed, you will have 45 seconds to get as far away as possible, as the blast it will give off is devistating, and basicaly a battle ender, the safest spot to go is in the village.

Metal: What will be the diameter of the given explosion?

Roudy: Well, it doesn’t have a set diameter per say. It will wipe out half of the sim of AV’s and will only kill each AV once, as not to spawn camp allies. It is fair too, as it will kill EVERYONE, not just enemies.

Metal: Oh my, like a nuke? Doesn’t that violate STABLE?

Roudy: What keeps it STABLE legal, is the fact it’s not a weapon. We won’t use it to purposely kill you with manual overwrites, the blast is ONLY set off by destruction of the core. Although, escape will be possible.

The Power core in development.

Metal: To improve combat, will the core explosion/build be realistic?

Roudy: As for realism, I will be trying my best to keep that way. It will have, but not limited to, smaller explosions throughout the base, pipes falling from roofs, steam spraying out, a giant fireball will rip through the ground hanger. All this should make the enemy want to get into base more, as it would be something someone would WANT to see, giving more of an incentive to try and kill it. Ultimately, combat in Second Chance will become much more engaging and fun.

Metal: Woah! That sounds amazing! When can our readers see the core arriving in Second Chance?

Roudy: Well, the installation date is yet to be confirmed, as the core is still in its development and beta stage.

Next, Roudy offered to show me the explosion, which I was more than happy to witness. As he fired violently at the core, I watched with my cursor over snapshot. And woah, was the explosion outstanding. As the core caught alite, and the 45 second countdown started, anticipation was building. Soon, a large mushroom cloud erupted above the skybox.

The power core prior to destrouction of 100HP.

The power core after Roudy opened fire, and destoryed it. The core shouted that the 45 second timer had started.

The amazing particle mushroom cloud as it erupts.

If you would like to see the explosion yourself, you can visit the YouTube video that Roudy created, here. [Low Quality]

The End of an Age: Ascendant Initiative Split, New Alliance Risen

Editor’s Note: Please click the title and expand the screen, as this is an in-depth piece.  Thank you – Caine.

The 2nd of December is the day that will be come to be known as the day the longest and biggest Alliance in SL MIlitary History fell apart. I am, of course talking about the Ascendant Initiative.

Now it seems that the Spartans, 39th M.H.T.F. Blackwatch, the Guerilla Rebels and other members of the A.I became aware of certain relations between the Alliance Navy and Vanguard Armed Forces (a group which has now died) and broke all ties with the A.N.

A final goodbye was published in the group notices by Spartan King Bruno Ziskey he states “due to an unholy alliance between Jim Herbst and Christoph Naumova, AN is being funded by Christoph in exchange for VG being allowed to join the AN, even while their groups are hidden.” And that while he does not wish to become hostile towards to group,  he thinks Admiral Jim Herbst and Commander Luca Vasiloptia were responsible for the group’s demise.

Admiral Herbst made a counter notice saying “There was no goodbye” and in fact explained that “I want to set the record straight: we do not accept money from Christoph Naumova.  Don’t believe me? I’ll show you the financial records.”

What most people considered “General Vanguard Tactics,” another thing brought into question, was something done only by a few members on a regular basis, and none of those members were allowed into the AN. The vast majority of people in Vanguard were in there as their first time in any military group and, understandably, did not know wrong was being done.

With the history and reputation of the Ascendant Iniative in mind I first went to Spartan King Bruno Ziskey who at first appeared to be the instigator of this sudden break.

Vegna Fouroux: Okay so what has caused this sudden break with the Alliance Navy?
Bruno Ziskey: Did you receive a copy of the note I sent out?

Vegna Fouroux: Yes, we understand it was due to your believe that AN were in the bed with VG but why the break now?
Vegna Fouroux: why not earlier? or why not an attempt at resolving the problem?
Bruno Ziskey: 1. I didnt know about this until recently and did my own investigation. 2. It turns out 2142 and GR have been wanting to leave AI for a while but didnt, I’d suggest talking to them about that and 2. If AN is being funded by Christoph and couldnt be suppoted otherwise, it would die anyways without Chris’s help..and I dont want to be an ally to a group infested with VG. I demoted a spartan for trying to get Ordo to support a new sim for us when we were in Gliding, and my feelings havent changed with allies about that.

Vegna Fouroux: Okay, so since the AN is now so infested with VG will you enact a blockade or will you simply open hostilities?
Bruno Ziskey: we’re neutral
Bruno Ziskey: Thing is, I dont want to fight AN unless I have to. I’ve been their allies for so long that even the thought of breaking away from them agonized me. I mean, we’ve had a year and a half together. Thats longer than any alliance in SL
Bruno Ziskey: But…..its the AN I like, but not the leadership. They’ve gone too far, alienated too many people and sadly enough allies.

Vegna Fouroux: Okay now tell me about this new group you, along with the 39th, the Guerilla Rebels and other various groups are forming? this “Commonwealth”
Bruno Ziskey: yeah
Bruno Ziskey: Democracy, purely
Bruno Ziskey: No one group will run it, all major decisions like rules and new allies will be made by vote
Bruno Ziskey: a proposed idea is for meetings once a week, and each group plays host in turns per week
Bruno Ziskey: but this isnt final
Bruno Ziskey: we’re still working out charter, rules etc

Vegna Fouroux: So in your opinion was the fact that the Alliance Navy dominated proceedings of the Ascendant Iniative the reason it didn’t work as well as it could have?
Bruno Ziskey: To be honest, AN didnt control AI as much as everyone thinks, AN just organized things more often. The big problem was AN not properly communicating with their allies to make sure everythings well and good. People like Luca pissed off a lot of people in their allied groups…not something that should happen between allies.
Bruno Ziskey: Also, AN at times didnt respond to calls for help during attacks by enemies
Bruno Ziskey: So some allies felt alone and unprotected

Vegna Fouroux: Ah I see, did the recent Iron Symphony attack “Operation Iron Overture” have any bearance on the split?
Bruno Ziskey: Nope

Vegna Fouroux: Well for example did the A.N reply to calls for help during it?
Bruno Ziskey: Nobody called AN for help
Bruno Ziskey: we all just directed ourselves by everyone asking who needed help and going there

Vegna Fouroux: Okay well thanks for talking to me Bruno, is there anything else you would like to raise?
Bruno Ziskey: Yes. People seem to get the idea that Sparta is somehow the focal point of all this and that we’re leading this new alliance. I’m NOT the sole one responsible for this, it was a group decision by the other AI members and me, besides AN. Also, I am not in control of the Commonwealth, nor will I or any one person/group be. It will be a pure democracy, as all group leaders will have a say, even the little guy. Also, everyone can stop “thanking” me. I didnt want to break this alliance, but I had no choice but to do it. The AN was my idol when we first became allies. I wanted Sparta to be just like them. Big, organized, professional, kickass. The AN of today is NOT the AN I allied with. I only wish there was something that could have been done…but the leaders of the AN themselves are to blame. Not all of them but some. It makes me feel awful doing this.

Well that cleared the air somewhat now I had to the other perspectives. What did the A.N really make of all this behind the group charters and notices? Who were the key players in the other former A.I groups.

To answer all these questions I first went to the 39th. Often seen as a bit of a maverick within the community they have been very anti-AN in the past. Going so far as to declare AN Marine Commander Luca Vasilopita “Unwelcome in Castle Munro.”

With all this I turned next to Hikyuu Kawashima Lt. General in the 39th:

Hikyuu Kawashima: don’t really concern myself with politics

Vegna Fouroux: Who would I go to right now in 39th to get the juicy stuff.

Hikyuu Kawashima: probably Squeeze, but 39th’s HC in general feels that politics is just drama

Vegna Fouroux: any other generals actually online?

Hikyuu Kawashima: no

Vegna Fouroux: Basically all I really want to know is why you and the 39th have decided to break with the Alliance Navy.
Vegna Fouroux: I have Bruno’s reasons but what are yours?
Hikyuu Kawashima: we left the AI only because we felt it unecessary to have a better relationship with people you never fight and never talk to your enemies cause theyre not in your clubhouse
Hikyuu Kawashima: we knew the AI guys well
Hikyuu Kawashima: so we figured they’d be good opponents
Hikyuu Kawashima: since we have open forms of communication

Vegna Fouroux: So this business about the AN having certain dubious dealings with the Vanguard doesn’t bother the 39th?
Hikyuu Kawashima: again
Hikyuu Kawashima: politics = drama
Hikyuu Kawashima: we came here to play and fight
Hikyuu Kawashima: the 39th dont act or think like the rest of the armies, so you’re going to find our responses vary

Vegna Fouroux: Ah, so you’d be no friend of Sparta either? Who seem to be heavily involved with the politics of this aswell?

At which point I was told that whatever Sparta was doing the 39th supported but the 39th Blackwatch has always maintained that it will not fuel the political debate since they believe it to be drama.

Now to get the third perspective of the story, I turned to Luca Vasilopita. Often a controversial figure with the Military Sphere for his outspoken remarks and behaviour. I found him tonight making tea and in deep reflection.

Vegna Fouroux: Hello Commmander Vasilopita, could I perhaps speak to you on behalf of the Second Life Herald?

luca Vasilopita: Sure.
luca Vasilopita: You’ll have to excuse my late reply there, I was making some tea.

Vegna Fouroux: Ah, I see. Well now as I’m sure you’re aware the Ascendant Iniative has broken. Now your name came up in Bruno’s “Final Goodbye” as having driven the group into a hole. What do you make of all this?

luca Vasilopita: As an individual, I have my own personal opinions on the subject. But, as a member of the Alliance Navy, and as a veteran of the group for more than two years… I feel I must dispell his statement as mere bandwagon attitude, and an excuse.
luca Vasilopita: He states that both Jim Herbst and MY leadership lead to this demise of the Alliance Navy, but you’ll note… I have been in command for two years, and I have lead many plus and minus months for my own Marine Division.
luca Vasilopita: Is the current state of the Alliance Navy down to any two people? Not really. I believe it is like the respiratory system. Inhalation and exhalation represents booms and dips in what we consider to be good times and bad times.
luca Vasilopita: Bruno Ziskey is clearly using names as a form of accountability pinning. It’s just not viable to blame the more recent state of affairs on ‘breathing’.

Vegna Fouroux: So you would believe then that Bruno and the others should have stuck it out with the Ascendant Iniative?
luca Vasilopita: I believe that what Bruno has done is in his best interests. If he truely cannot trust the Alliance Navy, because he doesn’t, and has outright refused to sit down with Jim Herbst in order to straighten out fact from fiction, then he shouldn’t be in alliance with us.
luca Vasilopita: There are alot of fabrications in his ‘final note’.

Vegna Fouroux: So then you completely refute these allegations about your dealings with Vanguard?
luca Vasilopita: In his statement, yes.
luca Vasilopita: There are certain things that are true tied to such incidents, but none of them in his words are that black and white.
luca Vasilopita: Example; The Alliance Navy did accept former Vanguard members in as Recruits. We would do that for anybody who met the needed standards of recruitment though. We are an equal rights employer.
luca Vasilopita: Example; The Alliance Navy did accept a somewhat weirdly well placed sculpted pouch from Christoph, which we use as an optional element in our gear.

Vegna Fouroux: Ah I see, well Bruno says he will maintain a neutral stance with your group, will the Alliance Navy adopt this position also, or shall you declare war?
Vegna Fouroux: I do of course take into account that you are not in charge of the group totally.
luca Vasilopita: War is meant for actions that are inexcusable. So far, Bruno has only stated that he is leaving and taking all his buddies with him. So long as there are no hostile actions by their ‘pact’ and the Alliance Navy, there will be no need for an armed conflict between us.

Vegna Fouroux: Ah, I see. Well thank you for your time Luca and I wish the Alliance Navy good tidings in this seemingly uncertain future.

The Conversation then devolved into a philisophical one about “he who hesitates” and has no place in these hallowed pages. It was time to move on.

Since this entire incident was undoubtably based around the Alliance Navy, I decided to get another Commander’s thoughts on the matter; Fleet Commander Jason Backer.

Vegna Fouroux: What do you as Alliance Navy Fleet Commander make of all this?

Jason Backer: What I make of it? Honestly, if the information were true I could understand the decision. But it’s not. However we’re keeping our cool. We understand the AN isn’t perfect and I strive to make it better. Instead of sitting back and saying ‘Hey sod these guys, didn’t need them anyway’ we’re looking at the situation and saying ‘They feel this way, why? Lets improve ourselves as a result’.
Jason Backer: The money thing isn’t true. All our donations are run via our database so we have full logs.
Jason Backer: I personally just feel frustrated but accepting the decision.
Jason Backer: I still like the former AI Commanders
Jason Backer: Jordi is a nice guy and you can have a laugh with him, never had a problem with LordBob or Bruno.
Jason Backer: I wish them well, and hope to show them and the community as a whole that whats been said isn’t true, pull our act up in the areas we’ve been lacking and just strive to be a better group.

Vegna Fouroux: Okay well thanks for chatting to me Jason, I wish you and your group all the best.
Jason Backer: No problem Vegna, take care.
Jason Backer: Can I just add one thing in?

Vegna Fouroux: sure thing

Jason Backer: As you can imagine it’s a busy time.

Vegna Fouroux: Indeed
Jason Backer: We accepted VG not based on them being VG, but on their application. People who wern’t up to par didn’t get in. For all thats said about the AN we don’t condone things persons have said or done just to boost numbers.
Jason Backer: That would be very wrong.

Vegna Fouroux: Of course, myself a failed Alliance Navy Cadet knows that all too well.

And finally I gained an audience with the Admiral and overall head of the Alliance Navy Jim Herbst:

Vegna Fouroux: Hello Admiral, so now I presume what has just transpired came as a bit of a shock to you?
Jim Herbst: You could say that, my big surprise was that Bruno “found this all out” and my friend of one and a half years chose to instead of talking to me, abandon the AI.

Vegna Fouroux: Why do you think the other groups followed suit?
Jim Herbst: They probably did want out, but didn’t want to feel alone in doing so. The AI wasn’t exactly a close-bonds kind of thing

Jim Herbst: for the most part the whole thing formed out of smaller groups wanting to not be picked on by the mercz and ordo incessantly.

Jim Herbst: It really came apart because of a few reasons

Vegna Fouroux: So is it definetly gone for good then? The Alliance Navy stands alone?
Jim Herbst: I wouldn’t say that
Jim Herbst: Right now we’re evaluating our course of action, my personal opinion is that the AI needed a “rebirth” as it were
Jim Herbst: and I would personally like to sort things out with 2142, GR, Sparta, and the 39th, and follow them to the commonwealth.
Jim Herbst: but it’s equally likely we’ll just find new allies. Or have none at all
Jim Herbst: before the AI, we had no real formal allies.

Vegna Fouroux: But how did all this come about. I mean if these allegations about VG are so untrue, where is Bruno getting his information from?
Jim Herbst: There’s some theories, but in a short conversation between me and Lordbob Boa the name Fox Mulgrave came up.
Jim Herbst: This information had to have come from rumors through the grapevine turned into “serious threats”
Jim Herbst: Christoph DID offer money to us, he offered supox to us as well, tier paid for the next 8 months already.
Jim Herbst: I personally turned down his offer.
Jim Herbst: The other fact is we did have a little financial trouble this month, but it was Hades Juran, not Christoph, where the money came from.
Jim Herbst: take out the names in both, and it is not a hard conclusion to falsely come to.

Vegna Fouroux: Ah I see, so this matter arose from general confusion and perhaps some outside malicious play. I suppose a major question would be that if you cannot join this commonwealth would war with sparta and the others be on the cards?
Jim Herbst: I wouldn’t know, honestly.
Jim Herbst: Bruno is my friend, and I consider Sparta to be the closest group of friends the AN has, come hell or high water.

Vegna Fouroux: Despite the fact that he has claimed you are responsible for leading the AN into a hole.
Jim Herbst: What went on here was an error in communications.
Jim Herbst: If I can bring him around to my side of the story (he is not responding to my IM’s, though) I think things will be better.
Jim Herbst: I.. AM a little dissapointed that he got some information and just decided to drop us like a hot potato, but come on.
Jim Herbst: He is routing all concerns to his queen, Ivy, but she seems convinced I am a very evil man and will not be dissuaded.
Jim Herbst: about an hour ago she ejected all spartans from the AI group

Vegna Fouroux: Well Ill see what I can do, Thank you for your time admiral

However one must remember this sudden collapse has taken place immediately after a massive Iron Symphony assault upon all A.I sims “Operation Iron Overture.” And whilst the former A.I deny this has anything to do with it, there is never smoke without fire. And what does the Iron Symphony think about this? Is it exultant? Gleeful? Well here’s just some random comments this reporter picked up during his time on base:

When the news broke:

gaffar Belar: claps

Anthony Lehane: I usually don’t come to conclusions without talking to people on different sides of the situation Vegna.
Anthony Lehane: It hasn’t even started to develop yet.

billyyank Dagger: AN MUST FAIL!

Joshua Hoch: I actually respect the AN besides them shooting through the floor and walls
Joshua Hoch: during operation iron overture i got inside their trench and pawned some of them

And so an era has ended tonight. A great power has sundered. And no matter which side you chose to believe this can be accepted by all I think: things will never be quite the same again.

-Vegna Fouroux

Oozing Drama.

Dear Readers,

On my coverage of last weekends activities, it has arisen to my attention that many readers feel the stories are opinionated and drama-causing. The Journal was set out so as not to be bias on any account, and if the reports appeared that way, please do tell me. As the the summary of the events, I am at a loss.

It is not known whether Christoph is involved with financing Elshout, and AN say he is not involved. So, I am assuming that is true.

Please, if any reports affect you, comment and correct us if you feel it to be wrong. We at the Journal will try harder in the future not to cause so much dispute. On another note, I am the only very active reporter, so any help would be greatly appreciated. If you want to turn the Journal around – join the team! From now on, I will ensure I complete more research before going to print.

Thank you all,

Metallicoe Dezno

The Editor

[LATEST!] Vanguard to return?!

In all this news about the Commonwealth, a notice was sent around the Vanguard group too, from Christoph himself. The notice said this;

Selling Supox
Tue Dec 02 22:44:59 2008

Gettin my +9 months of tier back. In any sense.

VG Is not dead, temporarily disbanned. Already paid sculpters and a ton of scripters to have everything new done in 6 months. At that point I will buy the sim Verklund.

In any aspect, GO OVER TO THE ALLIANCE NAVY. Go to Elshout apply and join. Anyone who joins the AN that wishes to come back to VG In six months will retain old rank

Thanks.

So, more ‘egging’ to go to AN. I am sure Christoph is ordering his men to go to AN because of AN’s great background. They are trusted and have really nice morals, no wonder Christoph is telling them to join there. I too am a fan of AN, and all they have to offer; be it leadership, or their technologies, as mentioned in a previous report.

I suppose we will see what happens in 6 months time, then.

[Update] Hello, the Commonwealth.

Bruno has given confirmation to me, that the new alliance being formed by 2142, Guerilla Rebels, Second Life Sky Navy, 39th Black Watch and Sparta, will be named ‘The Commonwealth’, as voted upon by the high command of each.

With no relation to the Commonwealth Special Combat Service, the new alliance will be one of “Full democracy, no group runs the whole show. We’re still working out the details.”, Bruno said.

More updates will come, watch this space.

[Latest] Ascendent Initiative no more.

NOTE: The information contained within this report, is, i am told, innacurate. This report is opinionated, so if you dont like opinion, please, do not read below.

A message was sent by Bruno Ziskey yesterday, addressing the AI – it said this:

“    It is with the saddest feeling and deepest regret that I find myself needing to write this letter to the rest of the AI and more importantly, AN.

It has come to my attention that due to an unholy alliance between Jim Herbst and Christoph Naumova, AN is being funded by Christoph in exchange for VG being allowed to join the AN, even while their groups are hidden.

Unfortunately the facts all point to one thing: Jim knew ANs numbers were failing, due to irresponsible leadership,  and AN was in danger of losing their land, so he decided to “save” the AN by allowing VG in, along with the “generous” donations from Christoph. This sort of attitude it the complete opposite of what an honorable group should be like. You don’t rely on your enemies, much less griefers like VG. Jim should have asked his own allies if we could help…but at this point we likely would not.

Believe me when I say that saying all this pains me greatly. Sparta and the AN have been allies for about a year and a half, which is a long time in Second Lie terms. It upsets me  just thinking about leaving the AI, thinking of no longer welcoming the AN as an ally, but as a visitor, and hopefully not as an enemy. I honestly cannot see myself shooting an AN member…but if we are branded as traitors by Jim and you, the AN members, are ordered to fire at us…please think about those orders. I’m not begging you to not attack us. I am asking you to think about whether you want to stay in a group that is NOT the AN I knew when I first met and allied with so long ago.

Had I been in the AN’s place, I would have let AN die, to be remembered for the group it was, or at the very least moved to a void sim. Not to be remembered as the group that was funded by the group of griefers who even the IS, whose members are often crticized for cheating and unfair tactics, banned.

To add to this, Sparta will be taking both Guerilla Rebels and 2142 with us, and will be forming a new alliance with SLSN and 39th. We do not know what the name of the alliance will be, but it WILL be an alliance of democracy. One group, one person, will NOT have total authority in the group, to do and say as they please. This new alliance will be run by the groups, for the groups.

I can only hope that the AN will listen to what I am saying here. I hope you will think on this, that you will look upon your leaders in a new light. Remember that  the AN is not evil. Its the failed leadership of Jim Herbst and Luca Vasilopita that’s driven the AN into a hole in the ground, a hole I deeply wish to see it rise from. This is coming from the AN’s oldest ally, the member of the longest running alliance every known in the history of the SL military grid. Please don’t take my words lightly.

With Respect and Honor,

Spartan King
Bruno Ziskey”

So, was the disbanding of VG a conspiracy? Was the infrastructure corrupt, never to return again? I was very confused after reading this, so i investigated further. Alliance Navy, a proud and sturdy faction was under immense pressure from onlookers. What unfolded next was a conversation with Ivy, Sparta queen. She told me “since even before 39th left the AI, there’s been talk about why the AN isn’t very helpful as an ally…as their numbers dwindled, they were rarely seen helping out during other attacks, or willing to go on the offensive. There were exceptions of course”, she told me. “In September, we tried to set up weekly councils for the AI leaders to attend, so that problems – like not being helped – could be addressed directly…but after two weeks, no one attended, and nothing was resolved. and when VG disbanded, we were all a little horrified at where they were being directed”.

I too was confused, at the time VG disbanded, as to why Christoph, a great team player in his alliance, didnt send his men off to CS or alike. Anyway, back to Ivy;

“With the withdrawal of 39th, Sparta kind of struggled to keep the other armies with us still…we’ve been allied with the AN for nearly two years, and rather proud of our alliance. In late September, whispers about Jim spending an awful lot of time at supox started surfacing. I mean, VG was an army even the IS couldn’t stand. Organized griefing is maybe the politest way to put our stance on them. We tried to get a feel for how many they were taking in, and couldn’t. Since then, several of the leaders have been told that the AN sim is being financed by Christoph. Personally, I have no way to make sure thats true. Anyway…I suppose that its in a nutshell. 2142 and GR only stayed because Sparta refused to leave, and now we’re leaving to reform an alliance with them and our lost army, 39th, as well.”

So, was all the drama over VG and AN all to increase AN’s recruitment numbers? Well, after further investigation, no, an AN member assured me. And is Vanguard leader, Christoph, financing Elshout? Again, this is deemed not true. What was Jim doing visiting Supox? Personally, in my opinion, i think that makes sense. The old AN sim, Dorien, is under construction as a team combat arena by Nanao, and perhaps that is why he can afford to keep Elshout and Dorien – because Christoph could be financing. But why? Why would Christoph have alteriar motives? This, i decided, is incorrect information i was given. In relation to me, Christoph has always rubbed off as a patriotic and proud fighter of both Vanguard Armed Forces, and his alliance; Soverign Regime. Just look at SR’s group charter:

The Regime of the Vanguard Armed Forces and the allied partners in the struggle to achieve unity within the military organizations of Second Life. The Vanguard do not dictate the organization. This is a protectorate.

This means that we lend military aid to those who are in need – We do not dictate or share tech, we do not create propaganda. We simply assist as the largest military in SL To prevent the smaller ones from dying.

Follow the S.R treaty guidelines and refer to them for further information.

Please, if you have any more information, contact me in-world (Metallicoe Dezno), or leave a comment for others to see. I, and many informer’s, will continue to investigate this conspiracy theory, and the Journal will get to the bottom of this.

[Latest] Iron Symphony attack Ascendant Initiative sims.

Today, in a surprising turn of events, I was informed that all the militaries in the Iron Symphony alliance were in the process of attacking all Ascendant Initiative member factions.

My first visit was to Elshout, home of the Alliance Navy, who in turn are with the AI. While arriving under tremendous lag and the sounds of ‘My plane wont rez’, I managed to alt cam around the sim under siege. While observing from the hub, I was sent a local teleport request by an Echelon member, also attacking Elshout along with a few Mercz and many MC. With Echelon Union and the Merczateers working together, a few members had secured the top floor of the initial compound well enough to keep me alive for a minute or so, before I was harshly mowed down by an eager Alliance Navy patriot. With consideration to lag and risk in mind, I decided to move onto my next sim and next military; 2142.

Upon arriving into the sewers of the war torn city over at 2142’s sim, I was greeted with the pressure of yet more lag, and the commands from a senior ranked Merczateer. Also joining me in the hub were a few Echelon, and in the distance some slow-motion Militant Collective members. While the lag continued on, I could make out a Vanguard and an Ordo too – very strange combination. While observing a moon-walking Merczateer either trying to impress his shooters or feeling like a little groove, I traveled via the magic of the alt key to the newly installed trench system over on 2142’s side. From the mini-map, I could see that the attacking IS were surely outnumbered, although 2142 was in a panic, as one member told me, due to the requests for assistance from other AI friendlies, also under fire from IS attackers. While pondering over the next AI sim to pay a visit to, I stumbled across Sparta, and so I was whisked away to Second Chance.

Observing from the hub, i could see minimal IS attackers, aside the 3 or 4 Merczateers braving the elements of lag and out-numbering Sparta, frantically running around. Sparta, confined within their compound, were planning tactical decisions which played out very effectively. From the hub, a Merczateer Officer ordered an Enlisted to help with the efforts in Elshout – so it seems like Elshout is the main target, and the others are just to keep them busy from assisting AN.

Next on my list was the sim of the Guerilla Rebels in Anamur. From my mini-map, I could pick off around 30 avatars in the 3749 prim sim, not a possibility come January. From the hub, Ordo were exiting the rocky interior to receive the defensive efforts from the GR inhabitants. Also in the hub was one Alliance Navy personnel member – perhaps here to help out GR, and the thought crossed my mind that perhaps AI was orderd to spread out numbers equally between all their friendlies, although I did not have the CPU to investigate this theory further. In Anamur, it seemed as though the main attackers were Ordo, as a whole line could be seen advancing East throughout the shrubbery and foliage of the land. Although the vegetation proved difficult to see through, the attackers and defenders continued their efforts at claiming glory for their alliance. Ordo, holding a small structure at the SE of the sim, were pressing very hard on the Rebels, and the whole engagement within Anamur proved to go very smoothly.

Back in Salamis, six Merczateers were defending their humble sims, which surprises me, considering how many members they have out in the field attacking AI. My guess was the defenders of Salamis/Badnarik were in fact taking a break from the lag within other sims, or to no avail with bullets rezzing.

While inspecting the Merczateers and enjoying the lag free environment in the abandoned train station, I was sent some information that the Spartans had been releasing presumably to the rest of AI:

These two messages were sent via two different means to contact AI.

RoudyRaccoon Hand: The sparta base is now acting as an AI refugee area, anyone seeking safe haven after the attacks should regroup there, and possibly plan any sort of counter attacks.
RoudyRaccoon Hand: Note to AI, after the attacks, the sparta base is opened for all AI to regroup at, anyone seeking safe haven after the attacks should gather there

Back at Ordo, the sim was packed with personnel – around 15 members guarding their wall. No Orks today.

While the lag was great, air combat became a battle of slow reactions and failing gunfire, although over at 2142, air combat was being established, and the planes took to the air despite the risks involved from flailing bullets hitting the pilots themselves. This same effect was noticed at Elshout too, although air combat was not needed, as the hostile breachers were already storming one of the AN’s administration compounds, holding the offices to the awe of onlooking AN. Would AN’s new technologies reported on earlier come into play here?

Information was being fired at me from all directions, and watching the battle(s) and reading IM’s became an ongoing battle of my own. At that particular moment, an Ordo member told me that IS reduced their attack on Sparta as soon as they one they called ‘King Bruno’ dropped the ‘Ban-Hammer’.  From another angle, I was told that 2142 had 8 active defenders against 15 attackers.

What hit me next was the news from numerous Merczateers, that one lone AN pilot targeted a group of Merz with an anti-air homing missile – a tactic defined in STABLE as cheating. I cannot name names and I cannot say this is true, but if it is, combined with what Lurdan says, AN are digging a hole;

Metallicoe: Lurdan, how is the attack going, and what was the motive for the multi-sim efforts?

Lurdan: Uh, considering we’ve been occupying key locations of the interior of they base for the last hour, and that they’re main method of getting us out is usually by bombing their own base with fleet, I’d say we’re doing pretty damn good.  As for the motive, Raideur Ng could tell you more than I could.

[Mercz] – Trooper HUD: Twilight Ninetails has hit you with a physical/activate object named:AN-HAA-M2

Trooper HUD Base: Twilight Ninetails has hit you with a physical/active object named:AN-HAA-M2

So, I was off to IM Raideur with expectations of a response to my questionable attitude regarding a motive.

Metallicoe Dezno: So what is the motive for the multi-sim attacks?
Raideur Ng: Prove they aren’t as strong.

Raideur, in mid-flight, told me he was busy killing SLSN, so I was off to Ohana Retreat to take a peek myself. What stood before we was a minor battle between un-tagged and tagged alike, so I returned back to Elshout in the hope for an interesting twist to today’s events. Aha, IMs from steve flooded my screen;

steve319: Welcome to the SLSN sim.
Metallicoe: Hey!
steve319: Where thus far we have held off Ordo, MC and Mercz.
steve319: Despite a sim death,
steve319: and lag.
steve319: you’ve missed most of the fun!

Joining me in the hub were also two Dominatium members attacking the SLSN, a sight I hardly ever see. These were abruptly killed in the hub area before I had the chance to greet them.

Ultimately, the cross-sim engagements were very fair and very enjoyable for all involved, I would like to congratulate everybody related to the events of some great fighting. And don’t forget to comment!

-Metallicoe Dezno and Caine Constantine