[Response] An Alternative Take On the Chaos Imperialis and the Fallen Angels

Submitted by Zrazor Rozenstrauch

These past few months have been an interesting time for the SL Military scene.  Giants have fallen, old friendships have been broken, new friendships have been made, and things have generally just gone topsy-turvy in a very short amount of time.  However, amidst all this hustle and bustle, it can be easy to overlook the up-and-comers, of whom there seem to suddenly be no shortage.  Amidst upstart groups like Raven Raiders or C.A.T.I., we find a couple of fledgling groups about whom Petros Siamendes recently wrote up a pair of interesting lists of merits.

However, certain aspects of these lists seem to be a bit off-base, either fudging information, overblowing speculation, or bending the truth.

What follows is an alternate take on these militaries.

The first of these were the Fallen Angels, an upstart group apparently comprised of lower-to-middle tier Vanguard veterans.

Petros’ list detailed the following qualities:

“Based on a cyberpunk version of Vanguard”
For those unfamiliar with Vanguard, it was based on a futuristic, politically-correct vision of Nazi Germany.  This was expressed through their liberal distribution of Stalhelms and and gasmasks, and about half of their rank titles and their motto being written in German (often with little regard for proper grammar).  How the inherently anarchistic flavors of the cyberpunk aesthetic will apply to something like this will certainly be interesting to see.

“Led by Garma Denja”
Garma Denja, as the author remembers him, was an enthusiastic builder, as well as a good pilot, but not quite leadership material, and as such, he never managed to progress any higher in Vanguard than NCO.  Whether or not he will have what it takes to lead a military group remains to be seen.

“Fast growing”
[18:22]  Zrazor Rozenstrauch: Hey, how many people did you say were in Fallen Angels?
[18:22]  Petros Siamendes: like
[18:22]  Petros Siamendes: 15
[18:22]  Petros Siamendes: atm
[18:22]  Petros Siamendes: around
[18:23]  Petros Siamendes: oh lol
[18:23]  Petros Siamendes: plaz got kicked
[18:23]  Petros Siamendes: from
[18:23]  Petros Siamendes: 2IC
[18:23]  Zrazor Rozenstrauch: lol

“Gear already issued to troops”
“Building In progress”
Word around the campfire is that Tangent Eponym is building for Fallen Angels, ensuring an abundance of extremely high-quality sculpted pouches for all involved.

“Made up of Vanguard Vets Including Petros Siamendes and Shivv Fromund.”
Yes, you read that right, Vanguard vets such as Petros “I namedrop myself in every article I submit to the Jessie Journal” Siamendes and Shivv “I just got here from the Teen Grid what is going on” Fromund, as well as Plaz “Banned everywhere since 1993″ Etzel.

“Receiving 2 sims in the near futur.”
The author speculates that these sims were purchased from the same location as Christoph Naumova’s fabled “four void sims.”

“May Be allying with Iron Symphony Current Allies: Erusian SFSR”
The author similarly speculates that Iron Symphony leadership may not wish to ally with an army comprised almost exclusively of former Vanguard.

“Roughly Around 20 active members”
[18:22]  Zrazor Rozenstrauch: Hey, how many people did you say were in Fallen Angels?
[18:22]  Petros Siamendes: like
[18:22]  Petros Siamendes: 15
[18:22]  Petros Siamendes: atm
[18:22]  Petros Siamendes: around
[18:23]  Petros Siamendes: oh lol
[18:23]  Petros Siamendes: plaz got kicked
[18:23]  Petros Siamendes: from
[18:23]  Petros Siamendes: 2IC
[18:23]  Zrazor Rozenstrauch: lol

Next up is the rather infamous Chaos Imperialis, who are apparently based on a combination between the Forces of Chaos found in the popular Warhammer 40,000 universe, as well as on a lot of things stolen from the Ordo Imperialis.  The Chaos Imperialis are hardly a new group by any means, but in spite of having existed for months now, they have only just recently begun to speculate announcing that they intend to resemble something maybe close to a legitimate military group if they feel like it.

“Based on outter-SL influence”
Being based on “outter-SL influence” would definitely be an advantageous factor in the Chaos Imperialis’ rise to power if anyone could figure out what exactly “outter-SL influence was.”

“Led by Dark Svenska”
Dark Svenska is the former leader of the much-maligned Pan-Slavya Coalition, who were once allies of the equally-maligned Vanguard.  Rumors also pin accusations of copybotting and griefing upon him.

“Also Fast growing”
To bolster their speed of growth, the Chaos Imperialis has employed such recruitment strategies as virtually open membership, not having a base, and not enforcing or applying to any kind of dual-enlistment rule.

“Armor Issued Already”
Prior to the creation of their new armor, the Chaos Imperialis had actually already been circulating another set of armor for quite some time now.  This old Chaos armor should look extremely familiar to both current and former Ordo members.

This couldn't be anyone else's armor, could it...?

“Weaponry bening built”
Which should put a stop to its members buying Mistral Munitions weapons by the ton.

“No sim Info at the moment”
Cheerful Rising, Dark’s old sim seems to have disappeared from the map.  Perhaps the forces of Chaos will set up camp in their parcel in Ratin, right across from the Titan Industries building.

“Also Contains Vanguard Vets such as Yellow Hyland and Garion Lowenhardt.”
Former Feldkommandeur Yellow “Goddamn I miss Vanguard COME BACK CHRISTOPH” Hyland is especially noteworthy here.

“May Be allying with Soveriegn Regime”
For those who weren’t there for it (or just didn’t care), the Sovereign Regime was the formal alliance started by Christoph Naumova with then-Task Force Marine leader Bennyboy Ball and then-EAF leader Br1an Razor.  The alliance was intended to be a protectorate which shielded small militaries from bigger ones by offering reinforcements.  Some speculate, however that the alliance was formed in order to give Vanguard a means to fight enemy forces which had banned them.  However, with Vanguard out of the picture, and most of the armies comprising the original Sovereign Regime either disbanded or rumored by eight or so people to be disbanding shortly, it remains to be seen how the forces of Chaos will join the Sovereign Regime.

“No Information on Current Allie.”
Other than possibly joining the Sovereign Regime.

“No Information on active members.”
Information on the Chaos Imperialis would be difficult to gather, given that a majority of its members are members of other military groups as well.

For better or worse, both the Fallen Angels and the Chaos Imperialis have, at best, shakey and sordid backgrounds, the wayward bastard children of a dynasty of grief.  Only time will tell how either will fare in the military scene once they manage to organize into actual functioning militaries (or even whether they will at all).

[Discussion] Chaos And Fallen Angels, SL’s newest military powers?

Submitted by Petros Siamendes

Currently, The Chaos Imperialis and the Fallen angels are not active yet. But both are comprised of Older Vanguard troops – I believe we all remember Vanguard, led by Christoph Naumova, until it temporarily disbanded. It was said by many SR combatants, that Chaos and FA will become the newest SL Combat Dominant Powers. So, here’s the comparison.

Fallen Angels

• -Based on a cyberpunk version of Vanguard
• -Led by Garma Denja
• -Fast growing
• -Gear already issued to troops
• -Building In progress
• -Made up of Vanguard Vets Including Petros Siamendes and Shivv Fromund.
• -Receiving 2 sims in the near futur.
• -May Be allying with Iron Symphony Current Allies: Erusian SFSR
• -Roughly Around 20 active members

Chaos

• -Based on outter-SL influence
• -Led by Dark Svenska
• -Also Fast growing
• -Armor Issued Already
• -Weaponry bening built
• -No sim Info at the moment
• -Also Contains Vanguard Vets such as Yellow Hyland and Garion Lowenhardt.
• -May Be allying with Soveriegn Regime
• No Information on Current Allie.
• No Information on active members.

NOTE: There is a possible chance for these Militaries to ally with eachother.

As far as the General Public can see, these militaries are well put together in alot of ways. They are already organized. Chaos With it’s Influence and power. Fallen Angels with its Super Weaponry.

What do you think? [Edtrix, Metallicoe Keng]

[Discussion] Chthonic Syndicate Future in Doubt?

Submitted by Petros Siamendes

Rumour has it that, due to “bad leadership” and “favoritism”, many SL combatants are leaving CS. Many of these soldiers may be going to Chaos or Fallen Angels. Numerous people predict that the Chthonic Syndicate will fall. There were a few that left Recently.

Petros Siamendes
Shivv Fromund
Yellow Hyland
Voldo Baxton
Masayoshi Anabuki
Karkal Gurbux

It was said by Yellow Hyland that “Mayra shows Favortism, and that she has not well put together leadership skills”
It has also been said by Petros SIamendes: “CS has lost all my respect, my only wish for them now is that they realize the failure they have conceved.”

So in general, CS may fail, and may not. But there is one sure thing, CS is a debatable military. With all the new VG-esk militaries popping up around the place, many exVG servicemen and woman seem to be returning to the old black and white way of thinking. Discuss in the comments!

Cladis Expectatis – the next reincarnation.

Surprise surprise – Cladis is the home to yet another military. After hearing the word, I rezzed my golf cart and took to the road. At the end, I met with Miche, the contraversal leader in my last story about Xiv. And yes, he holds grudges. So much so, that a sense of hostility surrounded me in the form of four armed men.

Cladis Expectatis’s new parcel name is ‘[The Order] Headquarter – Cathedral of Light’. The sim seems to be a futuristic theme mixed with a kind of jungle sway. It does come of as a really nice effect surprisingly, the construction team have done a jolly good job. And, you would’a thunk it – it’s of German theme! With the republic of Germany back in swing with bennys old men, this makes two.

Anyway, below is the conversation I had with Miche. Not much has relevence to the military, but more about the drama between by reporting abilities. It’s a good read all the same!

[9:11]  Miche Cortes: so…metallicoe
[9:11]  Metallicoe Keng: So, is this the next military?
[9:11]  Metallicoe Keng: o.O
[9:11]  Miche Cortes: not mine
[9:11]  Metallicoe Keng: Why must you all change militaries on a weekly basis? It’s confusing.
[9:11]  Miche Cortes: I am not the owner here…
[9:12]  Metallicoe Keng: Well the sim.
[9:12]  Miche Cortes: We all joined the army of a friend.
[9:12]  Metallicoe Keng: o.O
[9:12]  Metallicoe Keng: And it’s sticking?
[9:12]  Metallicoe Keng: I mean – no more changing?
[9:12]  Miche Cortes: Well, if you think you get any information from me…no…the last report was not very nice.
[9:12]  Miche Cortes: And so…no information for you.
[9:13]  Metallicoe Keng: Well, I just gatherd info from people.
[9:13]  Metallicoe Keng: And from those opinions – you’re not very nice it seems. :O
[9:13]  Miche Cortes: Positive.
[9:13]  Miche Cortes: You got them…but not all you get must be written…
[9:13]  Metallicoe Keng: Well.
[9:13]  Metallicoe Keng: Balancing out is the plan – I praised the military and explained a potential flaw.
[9:14]  Miche Cortes: Indeed, you call yourself a reporter…but thereare people they are lying…and you are the only “reporter” who believes anything.
[9:14]  Metallicoe Keng: Right.
[9:14]  Miche Cortes: Congrats Mr. Keng.
[9:15]  Metallicoe Keng: Did I ever say I believed anything of that?
[9:15]  Miche Cortes: If you dont do so, why writing any shit abut us than?
[9:15]  Miche Cortes: You could say: I dont write that.
[9:15]  Miche Cortes: But no, you write every shit they said.
[9:16]  Miche Cortes: May Sparta be cursed.
[9:16]  Metallicoe Keng: Well, explaining the opinions, information and sides of others is kind of the idea.
[9:16]  Miche Cortes: These are no opinions, these are lies.
[9:16]  Metallicoe Keng: Uh…they are views held by other people.
[9:16]  Metallicoe Keng: Thus can be deemed opinions.
[9:17]  Metallicoe Keng: I did not say ‘THESE ARE TRUE’.
[9:18]  Miche Cortes: so…
[9:18]  Metallicoe Keng: *so*
[9:18]  Metallicoe Keng: Your statement of ” Indeed, you call yourself a reporter…but thereare people they are lying…and you are the only “reporter” who believes anything.” can be deemed untrue.
[9:18]  Metallicoe Keng: So the case rests.
[9:19]  Miche Cortes: Well, if you want to show me how high your IQ is, throw it away ;-D I am not here for such a stupid conversation…look…if I would say anything about bruno, you would not care.
[9:20]  Miche Cortes: It won’t be written on the website.
[9:20]  Metallicoe Keng: Uh – when did we start talking about IQ?
[9:20]  Metallicoe Keng: No – because there’s nothing you can say about bruno that’s too deep.
[9:20]  Johanes Magic: mteallicore can you gie me the nice car (:O He wants my golf cart. I ignored him haha.)
[9:20]  Metallicoe Keng: Alas, there’s no story about Sparta or Bruno that’s relevent to need an opinion of Bruno.
[9:21]  Miche Cortes: Well, I got many things about Bruno
[9:21]  Miche Cortes: About his Weapons and Mechs.
[9:21]  Metallicoe Keng: Then when he starts a new military, or there’s a story that comes about, I’ll get it.
[9:21]  Miche Cortes: I got Ex-3ic of Sparta in my army…I know much about them.
[9:21]  Metallicoe Keng: Do these things about bruno resort to the words ‘Spammy’ or ‘Shields’?
[9:22]  Miche Cortes: Right. But not only.
[9:22]  Metallicoe Keng: Those are general battle drama points.
[9:22]  Miche Cortes: But nothing written about that right? Just negativee things about me or Cladis…
[9:22]  Miche Cortes: Thats poor Mr. Keng.
[9:23]  Metallicoe Keng: Haha.
[9:23]  Metallicoe Keng: You’ve got the wrong end of the stick entirely.
[9:23]  Miche Cortes: So…
[9:23]  Metallicoe Keng: . . .
[9:24]  Miche Cortes: When I saw you first time you was a nice person, but you are getting more and more like bruno…
[9:24]  Metallicoe Keng: I can still be considerd a nice person – you seem to be turning me into a bad one. I report news and opinions of those in the community.
[9:25]  Metallicoe Keng: Opinions and peoples information make good reading.
[9:25]  Metallicoe Keng: I’d be happy to accept any opinions or deep traits you have on anybody.
[9:25]  Miche Cortes: But if I say you are th alt of Bruno it is not an opinion…its a lie, so…dont rite lies, write opinions.
[9:26]  Metallicoe Keng: I am explaining what other people have to say.
[9:26]  Kenshi Mayo: Opinions most times start with “I think” or something. =)
[9:27]  Metallicoe Keng: I am explaining what other people have to say – not just their opinion.
[9:27]  Metallicoe Keng: …
[9:27]  Miche Cortes: Kallabis and Called didnt start with “I think”, they were starting with it is like that or that!…
[9:27]  Metallicoe Keng: They asked that it be published, I agreed so commenters can say what they think on the discussions raised.
[9:27]  Miche Cortes: There is no opinion, thereare lied facts.
[9:28]  Metallicoe Keng: I explained what they thought of you, so others can agree or disagree.
[9:28]  Miche Cortes: A discussion based on lies…great!
[9:28]  Metallicoe Keng: Heh, lies is your view – others may say it’s true.
[9:28]  Metallicoe Keng: Which is my point.
[9:28]  Miche Cortes: Look, thats why Sparta doesnt raise.
[9:29]  Metallicoe Keng: Why must you continue to mention Sparta and Bruno in our conversation?
[9:29]  Miche Cortes: Ahh…again…you want me not to talk about Sparta…no story about them? Hmmm…
[9:29]  Metallicoe Keng sighs.
[9:29]  Metallicoe Keng: You are not understanding.
[9:29]  Miche Cortes: There is much to be said about them, but nobody cares=)
[9:30]  Metallicoe Keng: Sparta is irrlevant to this discussion.
[9:30]  Metallicoe Keng: And Sparta have been a stable military, and have been discussed before.
[9:30]  Miche Cortes: No they arent, they were lying too, thats the point of this discussion.
[9:30]  Miche Cortes: Stable? The rules in the hub are stable, nothing else of them!
[9:30]  Metallicoe Keng: But I don’t want to get into a discussion about Sparta. If you want to express something on Sparta, send it over.
[9:31]  Miche Cortes: Nah, I´m not such an asshole like others are…
[9:31]  Metallicoe Keng: I must be elsewhere now, if you wish to continue the discussion we can move to IM.
[9:31]  Miche Cortes: Even if Sparta is shit…I don’t say bad things bout them in the publicity…thats not me=)
[9:32]  Metallicoe Keng: Mhm.
[9:32]  Miche Cortes: Alright, cya.
[9:32]  Metallicoe Keng: Good day.
[9:32]  Metallicoe Keng salutes
[9:32]  Miche Cortes: Too.
[9:32]  Miche Cortes salutes, “For Germany!”

The Combat Expo!

Dear Readers,

Recently, I’ve been working on a separate project alongside the Journal – and now, it’s traffic is gathering!

The combat expo is an initiative non-profit project to create a heart to the military community. A hear that entails only the best combat stores, recruitment stands and shooting range. Think you can be in for the cash prize? Come on down, meet with other members of the community, and keep it afloat!

Click here to visit.

Only the best stores!

Think you can beat the high score?

Which military is best suited for you?

[Poll Results] Which military is the most accurate?

Yes! It’s been another long-winded poll, but we’ve finally ended it! With a respectable 52 votes, here’s the lineup!

Echelon Union	14 26%
Ordo	12 22%
The Merczateers	8 15%
Militant Collective	5 9%
Alliance Navy	5 9%
39th Black Watch	3 6%
2142	3 6%
10th Mnt. Division	1 2%
The Mercenaries	1 2%

Thank you to all who voted! Seemingly, Echelon are considerd the most accurate military by the readers of the Journal. Speaking for myself, I must agree that they are *one* of the most accurate militaries, and indeed use less bullet spam than many others. Whether 14% of our readers are Echelon or not – I cannot say. But well done to all.

As I am getting back into the swing of things, here’s our next poll:

“Which military has the most influential leadership?”

Let’s see if we can get 375 votes as in a previous poll! The Journal’s kicking back, spread the word!

Mercz rebuild

Readers,

While being busy with the expo, Ive missed many major stories this week, and I apologise. Stories shall return as normal, hopefully.

-Metallicoe

===

A few days ago, after trying to reach Salamis I was greeted with the blue box saying that the destination was not available. In a thought that the sim was down, I alerted Anthony, one of the Mercz generals. He told me that the two sims were undergoing a rebuild. What will the new sim look like? Well, I am told it follows a city theme (one that many have tried and failed at), but I am sure mercz can keep it going.

Those pictures are just a sneak preview of what to expect in Salamis and Badnarik! The Mercz hope to open in the next few days. From the pictures, I’m assuming we can expect plenty of rural street fighting, as is loved in New Jessie Combat.

Soviets Return! Arise Comrades! With Victory!

Many were confused this week to find that their useful timekiller: New Jessie had been turned into a flat sim decorated by a single Soviet flag. Witch Hunts were called and called off. Noobs fell to their knees crying. Most went to the New Jessie Combat sim.

General Secretary of the Erusian Communist Part

The sim, now renamed Volsk is according to reliable sources being rented off the New Jessie Owner. Another mysterious character altogether who declined to comment on this article.

It appeared that Volsk was now the Homeland of the Erusian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic. Grey Nolder, a former Ordo Praetorian was the General Secretary of the Erusian Communist Party and is completing Volsk as this article is being written.

Grey also supervised the “Red Guards” a notorious group of Soviets led by Nadav Vaher who waged a Red Terror against numerous militaries last Summer including the late “Task Force Marines” whose sim was razed to the ground in a bloody cacophony of brimstone and Red Flags by the Soviets. However this brief and violent campaign ended suddenly and the Soviets vanished from the light once more.

Thinking I was dealing with another bunch of fanatics on which the likes had never been seen since the Old Jessie Communists, I entered North Western Eurasia. It’s high altitude and little vegitation providing this reporter with severe wind chill. I found the cabinet of Erusia atop a cirque in the sim, Discussing their future. With pen in hand I began my interview with Grey.

Vegna Fouroux: Okay so tell me a little bit about your group, is the communist ideology the main focus of this group or is that just a backstory?

Grey Nolder: The Erusian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic is a small Federal Socialist Republic under the tenants of Trotskyism; fueling international revolution whilst working in opposition to both capitalism and Stalinism. The government and the political organization of the country are defined by the major political party, the CPE.
The Erusian SFSR is controlled through the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Erusea, which holds power of both the social, and economic aspects of the nation.
Grey Nolder: We operate under the Soviet Constitution.
Grey Nolder: Article 1. The Erusian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic is a socialist state of the whole people, expressing the will and interests of the workers, peasants, and intelligentsia, the working people of all the nations and nationalities of the country.
Grey Nolder: Article 2. All power in the Erusian SFSR belongs to the people. The people exercise state power through Soviets of People’s Deputies, which constitute the political foundation of the Erusian SFSR. All other state bodies are under the control of, and accountable to, the Soviets of People’s Deputies.
Grey Nolder: Article 3. The Soviet state is organised and functions on the principle of democratic centralism, namely the electiveness of all bodies of state authority from the lowest to the highest, their accountability to the people, and the obligation of lower bodies to observe the decisions of higher ones. Democratic centralism combines central leadership with local initiative and creative activity and with the responsibility of the each state body and official for the work entrusted to them.

Vegna Fouroux: I see, so this really goes beyond a military group then? It’s more of a nation in it’s own right?

Erusian Motherland

Grey Nolder: Exactly.
Grey Nolder: The military branch is simply in place for the defence of the Socialist State.
Grey Nolder: It is, in no way, the core or basis of the group.

Vegna Fouroux: So will this group be completely different from the Soviet group you ran which enacted a “Red Terror” in the Summer of last year?

Grey Nolder: The Red Guards were comprised of milita units acting under the jurisdiction of the Marxist Erusian Social Democratic Labor Party (Now the Communist Party of Erusea) to fuel international revolution and set-up power to the Soviets.
Grey Nolder: More or less, the Red Guards fought to create and defend what we now see as Erusea. The Red Guards, since teh revolution and being replaced by it’s evolution, the Red Army, now serve as a people’s milita or national guard of sorts.
Grey Nolder: It’s actions fall under jurisdiction of the Central Military Commission.

Vegna Fouroux: So besides having a military, what other amenities does the Erusian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic offer to potential citizens?

Grey Nolder: All citizens hold equal protection under the law, regardless of status or standing. Citizens of the Soviet state enjoy in full the social, economic, political and personal rights and freedoms proclaimed and guaranteed by the Constitution of the Erusian SFSR and by Soviet laws. The socialist system ensures enlargement of the rights and freedoms of citizens and continuous improvement of their living standards as social, economic, and cultural development programmes are fulfilled. Citizens of the Erusian SFSR have the right to work (that is, to guaranteed employment and pay in accordance with the quantity and quality of their work, and not below the state-established minimum), including the right to choose their trade or profession, type of job and work in accordance with their inclinations, abilities, training and education, with due account of the needs of society.
Grey Nolder: Citizens of the Erusian SFSR have the right to health protection. This right is ensured by free, qualified medical care provided by state health institutions; by extension of the network of therapeutic and health-building institutions; by the development and improvement of safety and hygiene in industry; by carrying out broad prophylactic measures; by measures to improve the environment; by special care for the health of the rising generation, including prohibition of child labour, excluding the work done by children as part of the school curriculum; and by developing research to prevent and reduce the incidence of disease and ensure citizens a long and active life.

Vegna Fouroux: so this is by no means a totalitarian state?

Grey Nolder: More or less, Articles 39-69 of the Constitution.
Grey Nolder: We are, in no way, a totaltarian state.
Grey Nolder: I think the best way to sum it up is with Article 29: “Article 29. The Erusian’s relations with other states are based on observance of the following principles: sovereign equality; mutual renunciation of the use or threat of force; inviolability of frontiers; territorial integrity of states; peaceful settlement of disputes; non-intervention in internal affairs; respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms; the equal rights of peoples and their right to decide their own destiny; co-operation among states; and fulfilment in good faith of obligations arising from the generally recognised principles and rules of international law, and from the international treaties signed by the Erusian SFSR.”
Grey Nolder: We are a free state run by the people, for the people, and of the people.

Vegna Fouroux: So does this mean that they’re will be elections?
Vegna Fouroux: Or are the positions permanant?

Grey Nolder: At current, we’re still in the process of the full formation of the Central Committee. Our elections are a bit different. There are no necessary terms to how long an individual serves a position. If they’re in good standing with the people of Erusea, they could potentially keep their position for their life.
Grey Nolder: While those that break from the will of the people may be removed from their position.
Grey Nolder: Of course, we have general regulations to keep individuals from being removed because a group wants free candy or something. More or less, it’s centered around the fundemental rights of all living beings.
Grey Nolder: If an individual goes against these freedoms, then yes, they will be in the spotlight for removal.
Grey Nolder: Mismanagement of the country, armed forces, economy, etc as well.

Vegna Fouroux: So take me through the government at present. You, yourself are presumably at its head?

Grey Nolder: At current I am the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Erusea. I, technically, hold the main seat of power, although that doesn’t necessarily mean much. You could more or less consider me the super-visor, moderator, mediator of sorts. I preside over the Central Committee, a group of elected officials which act as the governing body of the Republic in accordance with the Constitution.

Vegna Fouroux: and now for probably the most important question; why? Since military might is not at the core of this idea, why create a nation such as this?

Grey Nolder: It’s a way for us to forge for ourselves a homeland. A motherland. To grasp an ideal and embrace a dream which otherwise would be near-impossible to accomplish. For us, it’s something we have great pride it. Something that means, in many cases, more to us than our lives. Not the group, or a simulator, but an ideal. A dream. Erusea is our dream. Erusea is our motherland. Erusea is our home. “The Motherland hears, the Motherland knows, where in the clouds her son flies. With friendly kindness, tender love; by crimson stars of the towers of Moscow, She looks after you, She looks after you. The Mother of Exiles.”
Vegna Fouroux: To this is really more than some themed group, this is lock, stock and barrel the real thing?
Grey Nolder: As real as it can be.
Grey Nolder: More or less, I press to you.
Grey Nolder: Ask Nadav, ask Hayate, ask most anyone here “What does Erusea mean to you?”
Grey Nolder: And you’ll see that we are vastly different than any other formation you’ve yet seen.

Grey was speaking of Nadav Vaher and Hayate Kanto, and indeed I did ask them what Erusea meant to them. As citizens they had been with Grey since the nation’s inception and Nadav was the Commissar for War. They told me in no uncertain terms that the ideals of Erusea transcended Second Life and Real Life itself, for they were simply the mediums of it’s values. This “patriotism” if one can call it that truly grounded me. I began to gather more statistics from Grey.

Vegna Fouroux: So will you be allying with any other formations then?
Vegna Fouroux: or is this a very much “Stand Alone” thing?

Grey Nolder: At current, we’re a very much “stand alone” republic. We’re not fond of the Iron Symphony at all, and most of the Commonwealth, in our opinion, are completely incompetent. I mean, they have SPARTA as a member-state, that’s all that needs to be said, really.
Grey Nolder: We’re allies with Falkasia, and dedicating assistance in their continued development.
Grey Nolder: In the future, we’re thinking of the formation of a Union-Republic alliance-pact of sorts

.

Vegna Fouroux: Okay
Vegna Fouroux: so does one have to be a convinced Communist, Socialist or Left in general to become a citizen of this land?

Grey Nolder: Not at all. We’re not here to enforce political views, even though we heavily express them. Erusea is the

mother of exiles. Ex-patriots, foreign titans, a homeland
Vegna Fouroux: I understand, well Grey thank you for your time, it has been a most enlightening experience
Vegna Fouroux: anything else you would like to add?

Grey Nolder: To quote Voltaire, “Man is free at the moment he wishes to be.” Long live the revolution.

39th and G.R Leave Commonwealth. Relations crumbling?

Warning: This Story is still in development and changes occurred during the time of writing.

Today two groups left the Commonwealth alliance; The Guerilla Rebels and the 39th Blackwatch Mobile Heavy Task Force.

This article will attempt to cover all angles of the story.

update: Due to confusion as to who was uploading the original 39th press statement, it is here now. Belated apologies to disgruntled Generals (;

Effective immediately the 39th Mobile Heavy Task Force “Black Watch” is withdrawing its membership from the Commonwealth and maintaining a “neutral” stance with regard to our former allies for the time being.

I want to make it abundantly clear that this has nothing to do with the recent events with regard to the Alliance Navy’s declaration of war upon the Commonwealth or the melodrama leading up to it. We welcome any and all attackers to Ziost with arms open…and loaded.

This decision has been in the making since the end of 2008 after multiple attempts to jumpstart the alliance’s progress in the areas of group policy and organization. The High Command of Black Watch has also felt that the Commonwealth in particular and similar clusters of allied groups in general are too slow to act and have a tendency to become isolated “Good Ol’ Boys” clubs thus losing any effectiveness they might have intended to have. We feel this is detrimental to SL Combat for those who are more concerned with having fun shooting each other than with pseudo-political posturing and gossip.

We encourage all groups under the restrictive yolk of such clumsy and pointless organizations to follow suit and take control of their own destinies rather than letting popular opinion or the threat of bullying or excommunication dictate how their groups function.

Also, we do not wish to imply that the other groups of the Commonwealth were incompetent or anything to that effect. We simply feel that it is not in our best interests to be yet another member of a social club like what has been so popular for so long in the SL Combat community. We have nothing but respect for these groups which will not go away even if we someday become “enemies”.

Going forward we will maintain a “non-aligned” disposition and will only negotiate truces and treaties on a case-by-case basis. We will not recognize any representatives of any “social club” as representing any military other than the one they are a member of. If you want to ally with us then YOU will have to talk to us!

We do, however, welcome the prospect of a universal arms treaty although we will not be holding our collective breath.

Kill ya later!

SqueezeOne Pow
Field Marshal

On behalf of the 39th Mobile Heavy Task Force
“Black Watch”

Firstly I went to the leader of Blackwatch Field Marshal SqueezeOne Pow, a leader perhaps not seen within the public spectrum as often as other military commanders.

[14:09] Vegna Fouroux: So how has your group reacted to your decision to pull out of the Commonwealth in your opinion?
[14:11] SqueezeOne Pow: I haven’t really heard from anyone in the Enlisted or Officer groups as of yet. The High Command was unanimous in the decision, though.
[14:11] SqueezeOne Pow: I think everyone will see it as more combat so it’ll be a positive reaction overall.
[14:13] Vegna Fouroux: So was the withdrawal a last resort for you, or was it something that was seen as an immediate best option?
[14:15] SqueezeOne Pow: Well it was something that had been in discussion within the High Command pretty much since we joined. Not everyone was wanting this alliance because of different reasons. My position from the start was that we weren’t going to participate if it ended up being just like AI was…essentially lifeless and slow-moving.
[14:16] SqueezeOne Pow: I went along with it in the hopes that through the Commonwealth some changes could be made to the overall SL Combat Community…such as a weapons treaty or some sort of regulation so as to cut through all the “we can do what we want in our sim but you can’t” mentality that a lot of people have in the community
[14:17] Vegna Fouroux: Do you not perhaps think however that declaring a neutral stance with the Commonwealth has simple added another deadlock to Second Life Combat?
[14:19] SqueezeOne Pow: not at all. That stance isn’t long term in the slightest. We’re just not going to run out and attack everyone or have everyone attack us. We wanted the dust to settle first.
[14:20] Vegna Fouroux: Ah, and how do you think (or perhaps know) they’re taking it?
[14:21] SqueezeOne Pow: So far I’ve spoken with a couple contacts in different Commonwealth groups and it seems positive. There are talks already of potential alliances on an individual basis. As this has all happened in the last hour nothing is set in stone yet (of course).
[14:22] Vegna Fouroux: So there was none of the drama that occurred after the AN- former A.I split?
[14:22] SqueezeOne Pow: Nope. We weren’t directly involved in that drama either, though.
[14:22] SqueezeOne Pow: There has been more of a direct response, though.
[14:23] Vegna Fouroux: Really?
[14:24] SqueezeOne Pow: Yes…as in people in the Commonwealth actually responding and discussing the matter. That didn’t happen with AI.
[14:24] SqueezeOne Pow: …which in my opinion gives the Commonwealth more merit than AI.
[14:26] Vegna Fouroux: So does the AN declaration of war over yourselves (being commonwealth at the time) still stand?
[14:28] SqueezeOne Pow: Well that declaration seemed to be a bit more srs bsns and directed towards Bruno specifically. We’re not interested in the melodrama that’s commonplace in the community.
[14:28] SqueezeOne Pow: If they come at us we’ll be ready to rock but at this moment in time we don’t have any specific plans to attack them.
[14:30] Vegna Fouroux: Have you any plans in the works as to future alliances at all?
[14:30] Vegna Fouroux: Or will 39th be flying solo for the foreseeable future?
[14:31] SqueezeOne Pow: We no longer recognize alliances like the Commonwealth or the Iron Symphony. Any alliance we have with a group will be on a direct and individual basis.
[14:32] SqueezeOne Pow: We’re going to weigh our associations with each group based on how much more fun and interesting it will make combat.
[14:33] Vegna Fouroux: Well Field Marshal Pow I wish your group the very best of luck in future and thank you for your time.

Now it was time to see how the Commonwealth were dealing with this. Brave faces? Macho dismissal? Panic? I IMed Spartan Queen Ivy Contepomi to find out. Sparta, often seen as the mother figure within the Commonwealth would surely have some words to offer.

[14:43] Vegna Fouroux: Okay so how has Sparta taken 39th’s decision to leave the Commonwealth?
[14:44] Ivy Contepomi: Pretty good. We knew, to a point, that there was a high chance of it. 39th has stated since the beginning that they would stick around for awhile, but weren’t ready to make commitments.
[14:45] Vegna Fouroux: What do you personally think of their decision to leave?
[14:46] Ivy Contepomi: I’d actually love to see more armies operate the way 39th does. I wasn’t surprised in the least, because the Commonwealth has been a bit slow to get running, and the 39th, while agreeable to setting and abiding by standards, aren’t interested in the politics that are involved
[14:49] Vegna Fouroux: And how do you feel 39th operate then?
[14:50] Ivy Contepomi: They’re misconstrued as isolationists, but 39th really is what solid combat is about. They’re here to fight, not to get involved in playground politics. When they see that, they back away. Some groups are interested in politics, some aren’t. 39th is one that really means it when they say they want no drama.
[14:51] Ivy Contepomi: Its why they left they AI before it got too rough, and its why they wouldnt commit to the Commonwealth
[14:51] Vegna Fouroux: So the Commonwealth is into politics?
[14:51] Vegna Fouroux: is this healthy?
[14:52] Ivy Contepomi: some armies are. Nearly all armies are, to some extent or another. Alliances take the work of trying not to tread on others toes on occasion, which translates to politics.
[14:53] Ivy Contepomi: When you’re signing treaties, creating alliances, neutrals, and enemies, politics will be there. Theres no way around it for most.
[14:55] Vegna Fouroux: So is the Commonwealth happy with the current neutral stance?
[14:56] Ivy Contepomi: Very much so. While naturally we’re not happy to see them go, we did expect it, and we look forward to skirmishes and the possibility of an individual alliance, if we get there.
[14:57] Vegna Fouroux: Okay well thanks for your time Ivy.

Half way through my interview with Alliance Admiral Jason Backer I received word again from the Spartan queen that the Guerilla Rebels had also left the Commonwealth

[15:17] Vegna Fouroux: So how are the Commonwealth handling this even more recent departure of another group?
[15:18] Ivy Contepomi: Um. To be honest, we (sparta alone) had had a few issues with GR of late, because although they pulled from AI before we did, they blamed us for not wanting the AN back. I’m not happy to see them gone at all; but it is, to some extent, a relief.
[15:19] Vegna Fouroux: So who stands alongside Sparta in the Commonwelath now
[15:19] Ivy Contepomi: 2142 and SLSN are the remaining members of the Commonwealth.

with this news fresh in hand, I continued my interview with Jason.
[15:10] Vegna Fouroux: Hello, I would like to know the Alliance Navy’s thoughts on the recent decision by the 39TH M.H.T.F to pull out of the Commonwealth? lack of conviction? Commonwealth heading down the tubes?
[15:13] Vegna Fouroux: uh and I see now that GR have also pulled out
[15:14] Jason Backer: I am not going to speculate because I don’t know. And this is pretty much the first I heard of it. But if they’ve left i’d suspect it being down to grumblings within the hig command of the CW itself
[15:14] Jason Backer: Oh nice
[15:14] Jason Backer: One thing is for sure however
[15:14] Jason Backer: That the reasons for leaving the AN wern’t because of the AN, but because an arrogant man wanted to play grabby hands and be seen as the leader
[15:15] Jason Backer: With the AN in the AI people say what as the mother group so to speak
[15:15] Vegna Fouroux: so Sparta were not a good mother group?
[15:16] Jason Backer: I wouldn’t know as we did not join the CW. But a group that can back up and defend lies and stabbing their friends in the back i’d imagine shouldn’t make very good allies
[15:18] Vegna Fouroux: So could their now be a possible alliance between the GR/AN or 39th/AN?
[15:23] Jason Backer: I’d very much doubt it.
[15:23] Vegna Fouroux: Really?
[15:23] Jason Backer: Theres way to much bad blood
[15:25] Vegna Fouroux: I see
[15:26] Jason Backer: I get along I guess with Jordi.
[15:26] Jason Backer: 39th i don’t know
[15:26] Jason Backer: But yeah. I hope they do alright for themselves.

Update: SLSN’s “knee Jerk reaction” has been taken off. As it was really just the reaction of an opinionated “officer” rather than the entire group. – V.F

Update: The Guerilla Rebel’s side

Here is a notecard published by GR Overlord Jordi Doobie to the forces of the Commonwealth upon their withdrawal

From : Warlord Jordi Doobie of the Guerilla Rebels
To: The Members of the Commonwealth Alliance

On behalf of the Guerilla Rebels:

Effective immediately the Guerilla Rebels is withdrawing its membership from the Commonwealth Alliance and Any groups associated with it. It has become apparent that old grudges and past histories with some members and groups in this alliance are negatively impacting any chance to move this alliance forward with a sense of change and optimism to provide what we all want – honorable SL combat with our respected advisories.

There have been no plans to move Guerilla Rebels status of our former allies to either a neutral or hostile stance. This will be determined at a future date according to situations that may arise.

Warlord Jordi Doobie
Guerilla Rebels

and G.R Underlord Bob McKinley gave me a little background on the situation:

You: So what’s caused the Guerilla rebels to pull out of the Commonwealth?

You: and is it directly linked to 39th’s withdrawal on the same day?

Bob McKinley: Well.

Bob McKinley: Old histories and grudges were getting in the way of making the Alliance move forward.

You: would you care to elaborate upon these grudges and histories?

Bob McKinley gave you Guerilla Rebels withdrawing from the Commonwealth.

Bob McKinley: And it was not directly linked to the withdrawl of 39th.

And there you have it. This reporter’s opinion? The Commonwealth on the interior and exterior are feeling calm and collected. The AN are slightly playing the “I told you so!” card but let’s face it..they kinda are entitled too. The Iron Symphony from what I could gather are just rolling with it. and the 39th are Guerilla Rebels are playing it Kool and the gang.

This is your tired and calcium deficent reporter Vegna Fouroux signing off.

CSL’s New Sim

After recieving news that CSL had ceased operations and sold their sim over at Wavewalker – I had to find out what was going on. Turns out, my information I recieved was inaccurate, and CSL had only moved sims. Their new sim is the sim of ‘Meydstow’.

The new sim is still mainland, and the base seems to loosely follow a D-Day theme with minor reference to a medieval castle. Kind of reminds me of South-West Seaport, for those of you who’ve been around to have witnessed EAF’s operations. Leave comments with your memories! Oh, also comment on CSL’s base. :D

Oh look, DEK is no more.

NOTE: Some may consider this report opinionated, and for that, I apologize – it cant be avoided with a story like this.

After an interesting turn of events, I think I’m experiencing Deja vu.

Bennyboy Ball, the controversial military commander that’s been on the scene for a very long time now, has allegedly disbanded his newest creation, DEK.

After a quick  pop over to Zaralona land, I was greeted by an ejection notice from some club owner, who seems to be setting up a beach club. One source even told me benny is to join AN, but that cannot be deemed true. I spoke with a former member of DEK, who told me that they were all alerted via notice that DEK would be closed for two weeks, as benny was experiencing real life issues.

So, we’ll see what happens in two weeks then. Perhaps benny’s saving up for a full sim? We can only hope not.

Dante’s Resignation

[Readers, I have been busy with other projects and I apologize for the lack of stories over the past few days!]

Last Friday, the 9th January, Echelons long-lived archlord Dante Indigo resigned from his position in command, and left the Echelon Union. The move took most by surprise, but to those in the know, it was ‘inevitable’, as one I spoke to put it.

According to my sources, over the previous days and weeks, IS (Mainly Mercz and Ordo) had been pushing Echelon to eject a couple of known griefers from their ranks. Upon decline, Dante continued to stand up for the alleged griefers, which seems to have ended in this. As with all great leaders, Dante left with a letter of resignation to his comrades:

“To my fellow comrades,

As I am writing this letter, I am wondering to myself how I can ever announce my own resignation from the army I have come to love so much. Like all armies, Echelon was founded on a set of ideals. These ideals, the often hollow aspirations of young leaders and dreamers, are not what make an army. Armies are the men who fight for them, the men who work for them, and the principles these men believe in. Echelon’s founding ideals of fairness, reputability, and honor are admirable goals. These are ideals all should strive for, but a true leader should not be blinded by such vague aspirations. I love Echelon not for its ideals but for the men who made it.
I do not resign because of any dissatisfaction the men who compose Echelon. It is such men who have made me stay, who have made me work for what we are. Echelon is everything I have ever wanted it to be. Echelon is a place where friends and comrades have fun together and where individuality and tolerance are never sacrificed in the face of “professionalism”. I did not remain in command because of my love for combat, power, or respect. I remained in command because I cared for every individual in Echelon. This set of principles has defined me; without them, I consider myself nothing.
The basis for my resignation can be found in such principles. It is better to not lead at all than to compromise one’s principles in doing so. Those who will call for personal ethics to be abandoned in the name of practicality or reputation will never be true leaders in my eyes. Those whose personal ethics do not value every man whom they lead over all else will find their worldview in opposition to my own. The leadership of Echelon has decided that reputation is more important than some of their fellow comrades. They have decided that the happiness of the few or the many should take priority over the happiness of all. I refuse to ever support such a decision. Those who would make such a decision either lack the ethic of universal love and respect for their men, or lack the courage to stand up for this ethic. I do not accuse the leadership of Echelon of fear, but I will never be afraid to stand up for my ethics.

“Cowards die many times before their deaths. The valiant never taste of death but once.”
- William Shakespeare, “Julius Caesar”

It is my hope that Echelon will remain a home for all those who seek fun, respect, and friendship. I have tried my best as your commander to make Echelon such a place. I have loved you all as brothers and sisters, and I always will.

Sincerely,
Dante Indigo, Former 1IC of the Echelon Union”

[Review] The Operations Glock 18

As Anthony sent over the Glocks, I was really quite excited to get my hold on them. After positive feedback from many of my contacts, I was ready to hit New Jessie, suited up with my Glocks in hand.

On first look, the Glocks are coated with a high resolution and detailed texture, topped off with some nice prim work. Upon attaching the holsters, it was evident that equal attention had been made to them, too.

After turning off my normal AO, I was greeted with the animation of my avatar standing still with the Glock by his side. My only criticism with the built in AO, is the running animation, that some could see as unrealistic, and slightly awkward. The jump animation, however, was a pleasure to watch, and quite fitting when I pounced on the avatar exiting the bunker at New Jessie.

Now, onto the guns features. The full menu, available when wearing one gun, consists of options to toggle sight colour, laser colour, firing mode, accessories, bullets, magazines, animations and a sub-menu entitled ‘other’. I for one am quite impressed with the amount of options available on the Glocks, so the user can fully customize their experience. The bullet choices available, too, benefit the average combatant with the option of training, damage, and a bullet missed in most commercial guns, ‘low-lag’. Under accessories, one can add a silencer, LAM attachment and a laser – all to add to the Glocks usability and appearance.

Moving on, the Glock folder, sent upon purchase, contains five items; The left and right Glocks themselves, the left and right holsters, and the help notecard, that explains the weapons functions in an appropriate and marginally understandable format. Mentioned in the notecard, there are commands for all the menu options. Also explained in the help note, is the option to create a notecard with all the users personal preferences, that can be loaded quickly at the change of a battle situation! This feature is, I believe, a very useful one. For instance, if in a battle you encounter lag, you could switch to your no-lag bullets, no magazine dropping and no laser settings.

Upon attaching the second Glock, the mode is automatically changed to dual mode, which sets of entirely different animations, and firing modes. As I reveled at my resemblance to Lara Croft at New Jessie, I noticed another animation set loaded into the Glocks: the ‘Gangsta’ mode. This mode, as seen in the Operations Mac 10 unlocks a whole new purpose for the Glocks. The sideways fire and cross armed animations made me the fear of all who saw me!

Overall, Operations have done a good job in creating a top notch handgun, worthy of my picks needs! In combat, the gun accompanied my suit very nicely, although I would say that they are not as accurate as I would have expected them to be. When pondering over thellegality in most sims, the fact that Anthony is a Merczateer, and so much so that the vendor in Salamis supplies the weapon, I would say the guns is relatively fair – and seems to follow the popular STABLE treaty.

Gangsta Metallicoe!

The Alliance Navy Goes it Alone – An Update

The Journal received a press release from the Alliance Navy today regarding their decisions about their proper role in the Second Life military alliance system.  They have decided, and the following document and conversation explains a bit about why and for what reasons.  A conversation afterward with Alliance Navy Admiral Bizcut Vanbrugh goes into the future of the group.  Please read and comment.

——————————————-

To: The members of the Alliance Navy, The Combat Community & The New Jessie War Journal

Good day, the following is a statement from the Alliance Navy as to it’s current position in it’s diplomacy with the Iron Symphony, Commonwealth and various other groups.

——————————————-
Part I) The King and I
——————————————-

In early December the last remaining groups in the Acendant Inititive left the alliance after a message ‘The Final Goodbye, Bruno Ziskey’ was released as an act of defamation upon the Alliance Navy, and it’s then leader Jim Herbst. Despite numerous attempts by Jim Herbst to contact Bruno, he was ignored repeatedly and Bruno Ziskey refused to speak with Jim Herbst. Fortunately for the members of the Alliance Navy they (to their credit) persevered and were able to see Bruno Ziskey’s lies.

Here are a few facts neglected to be mentioned or lied about by Mr Ziskey:

1) The Alliance Navy’s numbers did fall for a small amount of time that is no lie. However by the time the Vanguard disbanded the problems were completely gone.
2) The Alliance Navy has never been under threat of loosing its land, in September we had bought and paid for a full sim. The money was donated by the members of the AN and later on enough was raised to pay for tier and a void simulator, which was ordered but later cancelled after the void simulator changes were announced by Linden Labs. The money was again donated by the members of the AN.
3) The only donation accepted and used by the AN from the VG is a single sculpted pouch
4) The total number of former Vanguard remaining in the Alliance Navy? One. Who was a member of the AN for 3 years prior to joining the VG.

Bruno has since in time realized his mistake, and just prior to Christmas offered an apology or what he calls it anyway… It took nearly took 3 weeks to complete.

“To the Alliance Navy:
At the time that Sparta joined the 2142 and GR in leaving the AI and forming The Commonwealth together with SLSN and 39th MHTF, I did make comments in the good-bye letter that accused the AN of being part of a plot with Christoph Naumova. In this plot, Christoph would pay the AN money to keep Elshout, as I insinuated that AN was losing Elshout from lack of funds. As part of this supposed agreement, VG would disband and join the AN, bolstering the ranks. While I did do my own research into this, and the people I talked to and trusted said this was true, I was shown the funds records for Elshout. By these funds, the idea I had formed appears to be incorrect. If I am wrong in this, and I sincerely hope I am, then I deeply apologize for my words on the day we left the AI.

Bruno Ziskey
King of Sparta”

Three weeks… and it’s not even a retraction or apology… it’s an ‘If I am’. What an insult.

——————————————-
Part II) Negotiations have failed
——————————————-

Two days after the notecard was released the Merczateers leaders, Lurdan Huszar & Anthony Lehane contacted a member of the AN High Command asking what happened. After finishing talking with them The Merczateers… our oldest enemy were one the first ones to believe us.

Weeks past, and just before Christmas the AN was approached by a member of the Militant Collective offering talks about a possible alliance. This continued into talks on Merczateers ventrillo and had since involved into talks with the whole Iron Symphony themselves.

After the departure of Jim Herbst as Fleet Admiral on Christmas Day it was reported within the New Jessie War Journal the Alliance Navy could possibly join the Iron Symphony. It was at this point that I, Jason Backer and Bizcut Vanbrugh were invited to talks with the leaders of The Commonwealth. The meeting included all leaders of the Commonwealth but the 39th. What was discussed was the opposition to the AN joining the IS, and an invitation to the Commonwealth (Pending on a vote of course).

As time has gone on from that meeting it had become clear that all groups in the Commonwealth but Sparta were in favor of the AN joining.

The Alliance Navy has decided not to join the Commonwealth, but wishes the 2142, 39th, GR, and SLSN well.

——————————————-
Part III) Madness? THIS IS SPARTA!
——————————————-

The AN was keen to not overreact, to try and talk and understand what went on. However as time passed and we did it we came to understand that this defamation of the group, it’s leader and it’s members was created with little evidence, just a collection of opinions that Bruno had listened to over the person that could give him the facts.

Our enemies have treated us far better than our former allies, we have moved into a new age with the IS, while not being a member (And we will not for the forseeable future) we have put aside our differences and are willing to work together and co-operate.

We are after all a military, willing and happy to go it alone for the time being without a formal alliance. We are also not afraid of standing on our own two feet and make our own way. The Alliance Navy declares war on the Kingdom of Sparta & It’s allies.

We wish the groups of the Commonwealth well and hope to maintain fun, fair and enjoyable combat with them.

——————————————-

After I received this release, I talked with Bizcut Vanbrugh, the leader of the Alliance Navy, about the implications of the notice, some new rules for the group, and about a general overview of where the group was headed in the future.

——————————————-

Bizcut Vanbrugh: Hey Caine how ya doing?
Bizcut Vanbrugh: I told you that you guys would know when we are ready to make some announcements that will be closely looked at by the combat community and I am ready to make them.

Caine Constantine: Excellent.
Caine Constantine: what’s up?

Bizcut Vanbrugh: Well where to start…
Bizcut Vanbrugh: We are now hostile with The Commonwealth due to the Spartan King’s lack of any real apology or admittance of being wrong.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: We are now on a neutral, friendly stance with the IS – not a member mind you, but friendly.
Caine Constantine: So no war?
Bizcut Vanbrugh: We are at war with The Commonwealth.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: they attacked us today
Caine Constantine: No war with the IS, that is.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: correct
Bizcut Vanbrugh: We have put our differences in the past.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: We are also in the process of rewriting our arms limitation treaty.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: We are addressing several areas that have been left open and festering as well as bringing it into a more morden age.
Caine Constantine: Very good.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: We are also adopting the MC aircraft rules.
Caine Constantine: What are those?
Bizcut Vanbrugh: Well some of the big points are limt or take away completely the ability to fly in reverse.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: Slowed max foward speed to around 132 mps.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: All the persons i have talked with so far agree at least in private that aircraft have gotten out of control.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: This will help bring them back in line with other combat items.
Caine Constantine: That sounds good
Caine Constantine: Do you think you’ll focus more on ground combat now?
Bizcut Vanbrugh: Well the AN has always tried to maintain a multi theater aspect of combat, and we have started holding our people to some more strigent engagement policies.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: Such as that our AD is not to engage ground targets unless fired upon or it is a vehicle.
Caine Constantine: I think that will be more fun for all.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: So do we.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: I have never like the idea of aircraft just owning the battlefield.
Caine Constantine: I am really glad that will change.
Caine Constantine: On a personal note I mean.
Caine Constantine: That will be fun.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: Yes we have seen improvement already.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: Another item of change for us:
Bizcut Vanbrugh: We have cleared our ban list save for those persons who have caused problems for the AN (i.e Oblivion Braveheart)
Caine Constantine: ahh alright.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: We have also reset our limitations on AFFPs or applications for former personel.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: It used to be 3 times then you cant come back.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: All have been set to 0 save for person that have caused problems (see above)
Caine Constantine: I see.  Were any of these issues raised previously or are they all original?
Bizcut Vanbrugh: They were considered on a case by case basis upon why and or how that person left the AN.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: More often then not if they left on bad terms we are done with them.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: Lets see what else.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: Oh, we have started to release our marine division specilists weapons
Bizcut Vanbrugh: The SAW or squad automatic weapon is out and will be followed up by our advanced battle rifle and our new mech.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: I am personaly overseeing the development of many of those weapons.
Caine Constantine: Very cool.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: Unless you have any questions, I need to log and get some rest.
Caine Constantine: Nah, I think all is clear.  Could I post this conversation on the end of the press release?
Bizcut Vanbrugh: I would like that very much.
Caine Constantine: Well good luck Bizcut, it sounds like a lot of positive changes have been made and are coming soon.
Caine Constantine: Have a good night.
Bizcut Vanbrugh: You too and thanks for your time.
Caine Constantine: No problem, thank you for yours.

——————————————-

What do you think of this turn of events?  As the former Ascendant Initiative goes to war, and the Iron Symphony is at peace with the Alliance Navy, will this benefit combat in Second Life, and the Alliance Navy in particular?  Please comment your thoughts on this turn of events.

-Caine Constantine

Downfall and Rise

From our regular reporter Minerva.

While many people are coming back from the holidays right now, Linden Lab announced this week that all the announced pricing change policies for void and Homestead sims would now be applied. Within the next few days many armies such as Echelon or XVi could disband and disappear forever. While many armies have to face the new situation and are trying to find solutions other armies like the Militant Collective who just secured a new full prim sim or the Merczateers who already had full sim and two voids, the Alliance Navy and even the Dominatium (Who are still building their new sim) are already sure to survive. It is a tragedy we have to say but by next week most armies in Second Life will cease to exist. I decided to interview a few people, a few preferred to remain anonymous.

–Militant Collective–

Minerva: So, when is Militant Collective getting its new sim ?
Lara Hellman: we all ready have it i think, its called Nerva
Minerva: So your sim is still under construction i guess ?
Lara Hellman: yes but we are all moving soon so i’ll let you know if you want
Minerva: That would be nice Thank you

–Merczateers—

Minerva: Hello, mind one or two questions ?
Kacey Blackburn: What is it ?
Minerva: As you may know Linden Lab introduced new policies towards void and homestead sims. What can you tell me about how it will affect combat in Second Life ?
Kacey Blackburn: uh… Alright, well i guess many armies will have trouble with the new fees. I think the new avatar limit for void sims is something like 20 people so combat will become impossible on a void.
Minerva: Which armies have a chance to “survive” to the new policies ?
Kacey Blackburn: Well, most of the IS. I heard MC is getting their new sim soon, we already have a full sim but might loose Salamis (I’m not sure) and yes, Ordo and Domin should survive as well. Ah, and of course the Alliance Navy.
Minerva: How about Assault Commanders and Echelon Union ?
Kacey Blackburn: well, No idea we barely see them, maybe you can ask them ?
Minerva: Okay, thanks for your time.
Kacey Blackburn: Np.

–Alliance Navy—
Minerva: What can you tell me about LL’s policy towards void sims and how it will affect armies in SL ?
Jason Backer: The AN wishes that all groups can persevere through a difficult time where they could face loosing their lands. We respect all groups and hope they can keep going and continue and still grow. Should that not be the case we hope everyone stays within the community and if they ever need a place to go, they’re more than welcome to hang out with the AN in Elshout.

–Echelon Union–

Minerva: I am writing an article for the Jessie Journal
Minerva: Mind answering a few questions ?
EU Soldier: sure
EU Soldier: any thing to help out the journal
Minerva: How do you feel about Linden Lab’s new land policies ? How will it affect Echelon ? Will you loose your sim ? Get a new one ? Will your allies host you ?
EU Soldier: Well i’m only and E-2
EU Soldier: I have had a few friends lose their own sims
EU Soldier: I think the lindens are out of touch
EU Soldier: instead of harassing age player and goreans they should be solving technical problems
EU Soldier: instead of hitting easy target like go and age play
EU Soldier: If they want to make sl main stream make more affordable
EU Soldier: and make sl work better
EU Soldier: Echelon probally going to get their own sim any ways
EU Soldier: regaurdless of the price increase
EU Soldier: at least that what other member of EU have been saying
EU Soldier: we are going to be upgrading from void to full
EU Soldier: I don’t know when
EU Soldier: What I heard is that Dante and Roo can make the monthly payments for a class four
EU Soldier: but don’t have the down payement yet
Minerva: Alright thank you. As it seems all militaries within the IS apart from Assault Commanders will “adapt and survive”. How about your enemies ?
EU Soldier: I can’t answer for them
EU Soldier: Personally I can only give my opinion
EU Soldier: I think all groups are going to have to change
EU Soldier: LL damage and the way things are run now generally hurt combat
EU Soldier: If we want to evolve and become more fun and inclusive
EU Soldier: we did to ditch ll damage land
EU Soldier: and work cooperatively on hud
EU Soldier: and define victory
EU Soldier: adn share scripts and weapon tech ‘
EU Soldier: even with our enemies
EU Soldier: Are enemies are actually are friends
EU Soldier: because with out them we would have nothing to do
EU Soldier: so we have to take them into consideration
EU Soldier: We need to standard rules
EU Soldier: and cooperate
Minerva: Thank you.

–2142–

Minerva: Hello Mr Ashdene, i am writing an article for the Jessie Journal. Can i ask you a few things ?
crash Ashdene: sure
crash Ashdene: and hai
Minerva: What do you think about LL’s new land policies ? How will it affect 2142 ?
crash Ashdene: truly i dont like the idea of it for ” void sims “  as its only 20 people , i dont think we are the only one out there with a sim that is ” void “
crash Ashdene: and
crash Ashdene: maybe combat will be more fun, cause the lag will be reduce in my thinking , but fighting with alot is no more , unless you go to full, but yeah the monies
Minerva: What will 2142 do ? Do you intend buying a full prim sim ?
crash Ashdene: i have no idea yet
Minerva: Thank you Mr Ashdene

–Guerilla Rebels–

Minerva: Hello. I am writing an article for the Jessie Journal. Mind answering a few questions ?
Paper2 Clip: now?
Minerva: Yes.
Minerva: Just one or two questions.
Paper2 Clip: im on an attack but sure..
Minerva: How will LL’s new land policy affect GR ?
Paper2 Clip: it probally wont

–Dominatium–

Minerva: Hello ! Can i ask you how LL’s new Policy will affect will affect the Dominatium ?
Herbert Feldmann: The new land policies ?
Minerva: Yes.
Herbert Feldmann: Well, the Dominatium is currently building a full prim sim which should soon be renamed into “Dominatium Empire”. As i know we don’t have any financial or land problems right now.
Minerva: Thank you.

A tragedy for many, a joy for others, the new Linden Lab policy will for sure affect Second Life’s military community. Personally I hope that all militaries will find a way or another to remain active and maybe even find a new sim.

(The AN Interview was replaced with a conversation with Jason Backer, because the official AN policy with regard to void sims was not correctly expressed.  The correction was made by Caine Constantine.  Thank you.)

Militant Collective Sim Updates

Yesterday, the Journal was given exclusive access to the sim of ‘Nerva’, the future full prim home of Militant Collective. Shortly after the visit, today, news spread that Dismal Plunge had been closed by Linden Labs. As far as I can gather, while many are still confused, MC were suppose to leave by February, but LL were said to have kicked them out early. With this in tow, more pressure is on the builders of MC, to finish every detail of Nerva.

Upon arriving in the sim,  I was greeted by three Collective members, all eager to show me the base. As a exited the underwater hub, I was yet again greeted by the sight of an industrial blown city. The theme is one of an abandoned city, taken over by a futuristic twist.

When I got talking to some MC members, they told me that the whole idea for the base was fairness. This to combat groups with unfair advantages sim-wise within the community. I must admit, after seeing the base I must say it does look very fun. With lots of gaps to hide in and pipes to crouch into, MC have done a real good job in building a sim that all groups can have a good fight in, I am sure.

One MC member Nacky Bondar spoke to be about their new weaponry ban list.  Alongside branded weaponry, specific military gear is also listed.  Interestingly enough, certain weapons only seem to be banned from CS, AN, DEK and GR.

Sim issues and rules aside, Nerva is to be opened within the next few days, and you can expect a report on the first battle(s) that unfold in the sim, right here in the Journal.

XVi

Cladis Expectatis, the former home of the Assualt Commanders, is now home to Miche’s reincarnation, XVi.

The new base, still maintaining the homestead sim prim count, consists of the main area on a ship, and the hub area on a sort of improvised dock. I had a chat with Shadow Mannonen.

Metallicoe Keng: So you’re the reincarnated Assault Commanders?
Shadow Mannonen: Hm yes we are.
Shadow Mannonen: We had some problems with the old armys-
Metallicoe Keng: Ah.
Metallicoe Keng: So, what alliance are you with?

Shadow Mannonen: XVi was in IS

Metallicoe Keng: Was?

Shadow Mannonen: now we are going to make our own.
Metallicoe Keng: Ah
Shadow Mannonen: Well we dont want to be in IS when AN is in it too.
Shadow Mannonen: So Miche decided to make a new Army with its own alliance.
Metallicoe Keng: Who will you ally with?
Shadow Mannonen: Well so far we dont know, we will see who will join our alliance or if we join another.
Metallicoe Keng: Ah
Shadow Mannonen: I may be one of the big bosses but that is the part of Miche´s Job.
Metallicoe Keng: So who are the main faces in XVi?
Shadow Mannonen: I´m the commanding part, Kenshi the building and Miche the scripting and higher commanding.
Metallicoe Keng: Let’s continue through the ship. What’s this room?

Shadow Mannonen: here is a kind of chillout room
Metallicoe Keng: :D
Shadow Mannonen: Here, the offices of the marshal´s. A kitchen, lawl!
Metallicoe Keng: Haha!
Shadow Mannonen: And the teaching room
Metallicoe Keng: So what was the planning behind the base?
Shadow Mannonen: we want it to be so realistic how it is be able to on a lowprimsim
Metallicoe Keng: So what nationality are you all?
Shadow Mannonen: I´m Geman like the most.
Ondrej Petrovic: I am czech
Metallicoe Keng: Well thanks for your time
Metallicoe Keng Salutes.

So, it seems the XVi are looking for another faction to partner with, who could it be?!

Shorly after my visit, I was IMed by one Kallabis Heinkel. His first messege was this. “you must know the armys of miche cortes have no future all people in it are children the most i know and the most interesting miche cortes use copybotts like his bot named juliette3 mils or someone”

Well, I couldnt resist a little bit of hatred on a Saturday morning! He offerd to teleport me to his office, to which I accepted.

After greeting with his fellow ‘haters of miche’, I was informed that allegedly, lots of the members in Miches armies are underaged, and he doesn’t let them leave under the threat of reporting their real age. Also, he has been known to copy bot, apparently. I was also told that he threw a member out because he didn’t hand over a gun he made for his use, over to miche full permissions. So, to summarise, they told me he wants everything in his control: and if you don’t obey him, you are kicked from land and group, and reported facing perm-ban from SL itself. The anonymous resident I was talking to also said he may be nothing without the people below him. He forces one of the best builders he’s ever known to hand things over full perm to sell.  The underaged members are apparently too scared to report him. “once he sent me a list with names and the ages, parts of chatlog where they told him their age”. “he’s collecting everything about each member, to use it against them in case he needs it for his plans”.

Well, tell us your opinions by commenting!

Swords of the skies [Part One]

Report submitted by Duckky Darwin.

In an effort to bring the readers closer to aircraft they may have only barely glimpsed if at all, (not to mention my own insatiable desire to look at cool stuff) I began this multipart article featuring the fighters that rule the skies over SL military combat.

Since I was going to be pestering people on New Year’s Eve I decided the best people to bother first were friends so I went home to Dismal Plunge and had a chat with Amalia Irata the Air Corp. Commander or the Militant Collective.

MC's main fighter, 'The Sparrow'.

[15:27]  Duckky Darwin: First tell me a little about the Sparrow like who built and scripted it and what the goal was in making it?
[15:29]  Amalia Irata:  Raid (Raideur Ng  Founder of MC)  built and scripted the Sparrow. From what I understand, the core was based off of one already made by Jeremy Duport.
[15:30]  Amalia Irata: However, aside from general air superiority, the Sparrow was made to help set an example to other groups.
[15:30]  Duckky Darwin: An example, how?
[15:31]  Amalia Irata: As you know, most other aircraft on the grid are fairly versatile in all axis.
[15:31]  Amalia Irata: That, and they tend not to have constant movement.
[15:31]  Amalia Irata: One of Raid’s constant goals was to make air combat more realistic.
[15:31]  Amalia Irata: Hence the group he started titled “Air Combat Realism Project” and the MCAS.
[15:32]  Duckky Darwin: The MCAS being?
[15:33]  Amalia Irata: The MCAS is a set of guidelines for aircrafts that are used here in our sim.(available in the hub in Dismal) Part of the intention was to also get various other groups to use it when making their own aircraft.
[15:33]  Amalia Irata: For example, Sparta came by to test one of their ships that was specifically based off of it.
[15:35]  Duckky Darwin: So what do you feel that the main strong points of this fighter are?
[15:35]  Amalia Irata: Though many can’t seem to see this as an upside, I think one of it’s main benefits actually is it’s constant movement.
[15:36]  Duckky Darwin: This Fighter never stops?
[15:36]  Amalia Irata: Not unless it’s switched off, no.
[15:37]  Amalia Irata: Compared to some more VTOL ships like the Finch, you can actually concentrate on using all of the other controls, rather than always telling it to go forward.
[15:37]  Amalia Irata: It also plays a big part in not getting shot down when switching weapons systems. >.>
[15:37]  Duckky Darwin chuckles “I bet”
[15:38]  Duckky Darwin: So is there anything else about the Sparrow you think our readers may be interested in?
[15:41]  Amalia Irata: Well, I can’t say there’s all that much that people probobly don’t already know from seeing it in combat already. However, it is by far not a “completed” project.

Amalia next to her sparrow.

As a former MC pilot myself I know firsthand that they are a joy to fly and deadly in combat, however with that interview done I had to go find someone else to pester on this holiday. Fortunately it didn’t take long as I was almost immediately helped upon entering Area 31 the home base of the Chthonic Syndicate in which I was given an interview by its AD leader Rush Oceanlane.

The F-17 of the Chthonic Syndicate

[16:51]  Duckky Darwin: Whats the name of this fighter and some of the specs
[16:52]  Rush Oceanlane: the first is our F17
[16:54]  Rush Oceanlane: it shoots full automatic damage bullets and missiles
[16:55]  Rush Oceanlane: the jets are STABLE compliant and the F17 has been scripted to follow MCAS guidelines if need be.
[16:57]  Duckky Darwin: Who designed the F17?
[16:57]  Rush Oceanlane: Rican Eddy did the build and Mayra Roffo improved on it.
[16:58]  Rush Oceanlane: made some texture changes etc.
[16:58]  Rush Oceanlane: Scripts were done by Rookie Parnas
[16:58]  Duckky Darwin: Was there a philosophy or goal behind its construction or was the CS style the deciding factor?
[16:58]  Rush Oceanlane: We wanted it to look awesome…
[16:59]  Duckky Darwin: well awesomeness I’m sure can be appreciated by all
[16:59]  Rush Oceanlane: Personally I like the build, it looks fast and powerful.
[17:59]  Duckky Darwin: agreed
[16:00]  Duckky Darwin: what do you feel its strong points are?
[17:00]  Rush Oceanlane: the speed is adjustable so you can move around tight spots or fly really fast to get out of the way.
[17:02]  Duckky Darwin: is there anything in particular that you would like the readers to know about this fighter?
[17:04]  Rush Oceanlane: The plane is only half the equation. A good pilot and a fast computer are just as important. I guess the only thing they may be interested in is that we constantly strive to improve our technology and keep the game fair while in combat – thus the MCAS inclusion into our scripts.
[17:05]  Duckky Darwin: Very well spoken
[17:05]  Rush Oceanlane: ty
[17:06]  Duckky Darwin: True too, the fast computer bit is why I don’t still fly Sparrows
[17:06]  Rush Oceanlane: I know, mine is like 3 yrs old, I’ve added memory and a new graphics card that required a separate power supply… and I still die. lol
[17:07]  Duckky Darwin: Ouch
[17:07]  Duckky Darwin: Well unless you have more to tell the readers i would like to thank you for your time.
[17:08]  Rush Oceanlane: Not really, we just have a blast shooting each at each other and we look forward to enaging them in combat.
[17:09]  Duckky Darwin: I look forward to it was well.
[17:09]  Duckky Darwin: Thanks :D

Rush laughing at private joke (something I edited out and for the life of me can’t remember >.< damn holiday)

Feeling very happy with my interview I continued on my journey. Look forward to my next installment featuring an interview with Avena Marshall of the Alliance Navy and another mystery interview. (Seriously I haven’t done it yet)
-Duckky Darwin