There are few members who can truly say that they have made a purposeful and lasting contribution to the Dark Brotherhood. Even fewer make such a contribution with the skill and temperance that has been displayed by our current Headmaster, Spears. In his position, Spears was given an opportunity to affect the Brotherhood in numerous positive ways. He has done so. Today I hope to recognize his efforts as best that I can.

One of the hardest things to do as a member of the Dark Council is actually explain to people what we do. It can be overwhelming when you take a job like Headmaster. Spears deals with more on a daily basis than 95% of members do in a month. A lot of people liken the position to simply grading exams that come in, but Spears takes it ten steps beyond and does much much more. He has run one of the most efficient staffs I have ever seen in the Shadow Academy. He cares for those that work for him -- constantly looking to the next time when he is allowed to recognize their efforts. Spears has helped Anshar get the Envoy system up and running again. Spears answers a daily barrage of emails from new members. He is in charge of Scroll of Indoctrination requests. He still manages to find time to update courses, create and review new courses and work on the development of the new SA site. On top of it all, Spears has handled a ton in his capacity as Right Hand of Justice in helping to keep the calm and make sure the DB is running smoothly.

Running through the list of his jobs does not give it justice. You will need to take my word for it -- Spears is a work horse. He has the numbers to prove it. Increased membership and membership retention, large increases in the amount of exams created and graded, 5000+ exams graded by him and his staff. Spears has made a lasting contribution to the Brotherhood.

Most extraordinary, Spears does this all with the wisdom, fortitude and patience that we could only wish other members displayed.

In light of his extraordinary service to the Brotherhood, today I bestow upon Spears two rewards.

First, I recognize the activity of this outstanding member by giving him an Emerald Dagger. Spears has more than earned the right to carry this weapon through his work as HM and RHoJ.

Second, as you may or may not know, several months ago Spears instituted a program called the Degrees of Dark Lore. The degrees are meant to honor those who have shown a dedication to the Shadow Academy and teaching in the Dark Brotherhood. While plenty of the degrees have been given out, no one has been awarded the highest honor...until now.

Spears, I hereby bestow upon you the title of Master of Dark Lore. It is a fitting title.

Congratulations, my friend.

Lord Jac Cotelin