LiLo

Lindsay Lohan rocks.

From one Michael to Another

I recently received a request from Michael Spanne of Spades to publish this press release. I was more than happy to oblige.

On February 16, 2008, I put forth a challenge to Michael Le Houlier of KMD. As of yesterday he rejected a personal challenge sent through a member of KMD, because I am a “military player who can only sustain himself through his alliance.” However, I am not sustained by my alliance, I have given away up to 10 million gold (Payment for my Royal Standard) to a fellow player in the not so distant past, that has been gradually returned to me. I do not think that a challenge should go unheard because of my choices in the game. I am openly declaring my challenge and if it is accepted, am willing to accept no aid from my fellow members of the Spades, whether it be defense, invasion, or monetary. Moreover, it is not outside the rights of an independent citizen to build a strong military and have a fellow citizen send gold (Even if it is not their own money). Therefore I challenge Michael Le Houlier, the so called “Defender of Independents” to a one on one battle without help or aid from Alliance members. I am even willing to temporarily leave my alliance, provided Michael follows my example and no other interferes. Given these circumstances, If this challenge goes unanswered/rejected, I will be disappointed. It would be utter hypocrisy to refuse an independent battle when you condemn alliance members for their attacks on independant citizens. The challenge has been issued.

I would like to thank Nicho Kelly personally for the chance to publish this in the terrific papers that he helps publish. I would also like to thank Elizabeth for allowing this to also be posted in the Daily Hoplite. And of course Chris for letting me post in the ever entertaining Royal Prophet =P.

I would also like to add that this is in no way an attack/threat of an attack on Dragon Knights/KMD. I have very high regards for almost every member one of their members I have been in contact with. =)

Interview with Joe Sciarrino of the North Men

One of the newer alliances in town is the North Men, a powerful, medium sized alliance. One of their officers, Joe Sciarrino, agreed to give an interview.

Who are the North Men?

The North Men is a league of extraordinary gentlemen! To know us you must understand out history. We formed under the direction of Matt Posey as a sister Alliance to Sparta. Most of our members, excluding a select few, are ex-Spartans. It is apparent from my own title “The Spartan Viking” that a familial mood still exists between our two groups. Although we are kin to Sparta our own autonomy should be noted. Our head diplomat, Francois Aubry, has demonstrated this autonomy through his negotiation of NAP’s with various alliances. Therefore, any attacks initiated by the North Men on alliances friendly to Sparta should realize that we are acting on our own prerogatives. (Most likely we want battle standards :P) And No earthly forces will be able to halt us. Let me make it clear: The North Men cannot be stopped…not even by Caledonia.

What are your diplomatic relationships with other Alliances?

We are a fairly peaceful group and see it in the best interest of many alliances to form NAP’s with us. As mentioned prior, we are very friendly with both Sparta and the Spades, many of us old invasion buds. We enjoy favorable relations with both Allies and Anarchy (contrary to their name I suppose). We are favorable with VVV, having done nothing to shift our position otherwise, and we enjoy having them as the number 2 alliance in the game. The confusing situation is Exodus, because we enjoy an NAP with them, yet are bothered by their many spin-off clones. Our relationship with Exodus is historical, dating back to Sparta’s joint efforts against the Genesis. There are others alliances, but time is a virtue. As for Caledonia, I am sorry that their invasion upon my lands didn’t got as well as expected. Maybe next time :P Anyone that would like to negotiate with the North Men should contact our diplomat Francois Aubry. He has done an excellent job.

What is your opinion of Craig Parrish, our new king?

Craig Parrish is my role model. lol I once worked as a lowly scholar funder for his head concubine/ Queen, Sierra Evans. I remember the first thing Craig ever said to me. Its as clear as day. He said “Yea, you are going to need to build 7 CC’s.” Those were the most meaningful and helpful words I’ve ever received. I recently had the benefit of instructing one of my new subjects with the same advice. The legacy lives on!! However, I did think he was a pansy for jumping to VVV for a week or so. But now I realize his genius. I will work hard to ensure the God King keeps the chair warm for me until I arrive.

What is the stance of the North Men towards Morlocks (unaligned players)?

Morlocks? Fair Game! I eat that for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (and so does Robert Rose) –laughing hysterically. The North Men believe that there are benefits to both alliance playing and being a Morlock. The Morlocks have made their decision and they must also take the negatives of their situation.

What are your plans for the future?

The North Men plan on developing in new ways that suit the changes being made by Don Lee. We believe that a strong alliance that still has acres will be able to adapt for the coming days. This is undeniably to our benefit. I look forward to seeing us rise in the rankings as our new players learn the ways of the warrior Vikings. As a side note, I just wanted to thank Matt Posey for all of the great work that he has done, and I am confident that he will do great things in the future! Also great thanks to former King Thav., Janet (the best woman in the world), Robert Rose, Celia, and the God King Craig. LONG LIVE THE NORTH MEN! Long live Craig!
Sincerely,
“The Spartan Viking”
Duke Joseph Sciarrino of the North Men

(Republished from the Crown Prince by Nicho Kelly)

New Newspaper

The Editors of World News & Royal Report would like to welcome the new newspaper/magazine "The Bishop's Proclamation". We wish the Bishop good luck and hope that his newspaper is successful. 

An Exposé with a Player New to the KOTW World

The editors of World News & Royal Report held an interview with Ryan Knight, who is new to our game and has high hopes for KOTW even with the recent fighting and turmoil.

What are your expectations for this game and what have you noticed that is interesting?

I would like to carry on, enjoying and playing with my friends. The realism is quite interesting; as well is the seriousness of what seems to be a war of attrition going on amongst the top-ranked players. The game itself for its simplicity is quite intricate, and I have to commend the developer, Don Lee, and his team for that. On that note, I would also like to commend the editors of World News & Royal Report, the Herald, and Royal Life on the daily maintenance of their newspapers.

Do you have any suggestions so far?

As for suggestions, I think that there are a few things that I would implement if I had the knowledge of the configuration of the game. I would add a little more detail to each player's realm. I would also make the communication between players, governments [sic], and Alliances a little more detailed. Otherwise, most of the game is sound.

Do you predict anything for the future of KOTW?

My predictions for the game are a bit sketchy right now, however  I do believe that the War can only end in heartbreak for those involved. I have not been involved too long, but I do think a "new" power should and will arise from the bloodshed. This is why I have decided to form the UK & European Alliance. I think we can gather a great amount of support and prove that we are a worthy alternative to the current hegemonic Alliances. I hope that peace and equilibrium will be restored soon.

An Attempt on the King's Life

The members of the Royal Dragon Alliance have ambitiously attacked His Highness, King Thavidu Ranatunga, in order to reclaim the throne. Although the initial wave of attacks was strong, the Spartans nobly ran to defend their leader. However, His Highness remains weak, while other Alliances prepare for a possible take over of the throne. 

Dastardly Gareth Daniels Invades VVV Prince

The Dark Prince, Gareth Daniels, has just invaded the highest ranking Veni Vidi Vici member, Prince Craig Parish. All VVV members have been put on high alert, and many loyal ones have come to the defense of their Prince. This attack may have widespread effects with other alliances and may begin another war. More details to follow!!

The New Alliance Tax

In an effort to level the playing field of KOTW by curbing the power of the Alliance, our benevolent creator will be implementing an "Alliance Tax". As a part of this new system, each Alliance will receive its own Treasury. Each Treasury will remain under control of their respective Alliances, while members can deposit gold in order to increase the Treasury's funds. During the daily maintenance, our creator will then subtract gold from the Treasury to pay for the "Alliance Tax". The tax itself will be calculated using the wealth of the 40 members of the Alliance with the most gold to form an average. This average will then be multiplied against the total number of Alliance members. If an Alliance cannot pay the tax or refuses to do so, that Alliance will lose some privileges including but not limited to Alliance invasions, Alliance defense, and faster caravan speeds. For smaller Alliances with less than 40 members, our creator will just take the wealth of the Alliance and divide it by 40. Thus, it will then be cheaper for smaller Alliances. Independents will not be affected directly by the "Alliance Tax" for obvious reasons. The new Treasury system will also be implemented for future changes and abilities like the Wonders of the World/Monuments, Exchange between Alliances, Reparations, and other economic ventures.

Clarification on the Herald Article

Since there is a character limit, you may message my facebook profile: Manny Antunes, with your editorials, interviews, and such.

The Herald

We, the editors of World News & Royal Report, would like to concur with the Herald and the redaction by confirming the non-existence of any animosity or resentment between the two newspapers. In fact, we encourage everyone to read both the Herald and WN&RR to remain well-informed about the events affecting the KOTW world. We also would like to invite people to submit editorials or articles they wish to be published by sending Manny Antunes of VVV encrypted wall-messages of what they want posted.

A Look at Gareth Daniels and His Strong Following

Gareth Daniels seems to cater to those distressed by the wars and foster a sense of unity through a strong  figurehead who requires uncontested authority. His popularity comes at no surprise since his following is composed of mostly independents who belong to no alliance of their own. Why is it that independents want to subject themselves to a singular regime even though they remain independents primarily for their own personal freedoms?

There are two major reasons for this. First of all, independents seem to be tired of the domination of strong alliances who control the KOTW world through a political system that resembles modern party politics. They feel left out in a lot of the diplomacy and decision making. They also do not appreciate the full-scale wars that major alliances create. This leaves independents only one option for hegemony and that is through force. Second, independents are subject to a lot of raiding and "practice attacks" and "maneuvers" that alliance members are not subject to. Likewise, they do not have a strong defense system with which to protect themselves.

Gareth Daniels, therefore, panders to this disgruntled populace by removing the supremacy of the alliances and create what seems to be a more level playing field for independents. This balance, according to Gareth, can only be achieved by war, leading to his catch-phrase "war is freedom."

Is this "alliance weakening" necessary to achieve a more free and equal KOTW world? The answer is NO. Gareth's proposal will only lead unnecessary destruction and chaos. There will be tremendous infighting and a constant struggle for the position of monarch, which is what we have now except on an even worse scale. In no shape or form will this situation better itself through people like Gareth. Alliances are truly what keep balance in the game. They allow the title of King or Queen to pass quite frequently to many different, qualified people.

Care to agree or disagree? Please respond with your rebuttals!! Nicely written ones will be posted even if they disagree with the writer.

A Brief Interview With His Majesty

I had an interview with King Thavidu Ranatunga. The interview was short, but it shows how light-hearted our monarch can be.

1.) What is your top priority for your reign?

At the moment, winning the war  =P

2.) What do you think of Gareth Daniel's claim to the throne?

I think he's hilarious!

Make no mistake, His Highness is just as serious and determined as he is funny. I believe that we can expect many great things from his reign.

First Edition Post

This blog is intended to be an alternative source for news and interviews. It is also meant to end the monopoly created by the Herald (aka the Daily Ogre). I will also allow editorials and interviews written by other citizens of the KOTW world.