Sorry if this is a bit skimpy; first report. In other news, I apparently haven't forgotten how to html, so there's that. Also, 'html' is now a verb.

Dark Crusade

You're going to see that bit up there for a while; if you're new, or returning, then you have jumped in in the middle of a year long event. If you've been here for a while and have somehow missed it... kudos. That's actually kind of impressive when you think about it. The next phase of the Dark Crusade will start tomorrow.

Athiss

As you are almost certainly aware by this point, our next planet for the Dark Crusade is Athiss, which we will be fighting Naga Sadow to loot (and the One Sith, but who cares about them?). Not much information on it, which means its perfect for our purposes. Individuals who play TOR may remember it as the location of an apparently annoying flashpoint.

Special Forces

I'm certain you all remember the Special Forces group that people have been talking about. This is the group who is going to focus mostly on placement. Here's a reminder of whose on the Special Forces for this phase.

• Arden Karn

• Ronovi

• Tra'an

• Celevon

• Solus Gar

• Kuro

• Octavia

• Arturis

• Ka'Hava'Ve

General Troops

However, despite the 'winning the planet' thing being the responsibility of the Special Forces, large scale events have always been determined partially by participation and partially by placement. While it is true that this time it is in a rather more roundabout way than in the past, that still holds true. If what you need to motivate you is knowing that your actions help Plagueis, then know that participation determines the number of special forces available for the next phase. If what motivates you is personal accomplishment, then remember that every submission earns you a seal, and that if you show you're good enough the summit will have no problem kicking someone off the special forces for next phase and putting you in their place. If what motivates you is simply having fun... well, all I can say there is give every event a try. A fiction that looks boring might turn out to be unique once you start writing it. You may not normally participate in #db trivia, but scoring will not be tied to the speed of your google fu, only its accuracy.

However, remember that Plagueis isn't entirely dependent on the actions of the special forces. While crucial to both placement and participation, they are not the be all end all of the Crusade. People in the Special Forces will be able to point at their Gold Novas when this is done. People in the general forces will be able to point at a 3.0 participation ratio, because I know that Plagueis can hit those numbers, and Special Forces alone does not have the numbers to achieve it. You're not more. You're not less. You're Plagueis, each and every one of you.

Summit Assistance, or, How its our job to put aside work to help you

That uh.... that kind of says it all, doesn't it? Its true, though. If you need help from the summit, between the three of us (five, counting your BTL and XO if you're in a Battle Team), we can help you and it would be irresponsible of us to focus on our own events if you need help. Between the entire summit, we can help with everything. I know that Ronovi would be your best shot for proofreader, Arden is quite familiar with TOR, and I've got probably the most JA experience in the house. Outside of us, I'm certain that we can find someone who knows exactly how to help you and is willing to do so.

BTLs

As I'm sure you can guess, this entire thing has thrown the Plagueis chain of command for a loop. However, decisions have been made and things have been stabilized. Stepping into the position of BTL for Karness Murr is Celevon, who is joined by Arturis Schluen as his XO. Ajunta Pall's BTL is Silent, and Teylas Ramar is continuing to serve as his XO.

Closing

I have been in Plagueis since I joined the Brotherhood. Never joined another house, never left to the rogues. I'm in Plagueis for better or for worse. I'm here to help, and I'm here to serve.

Adapt. Ascend. Avail.