1) Obelisk Battlemaster Ziguarath finally came back from whereever he went. Unfortunately for him however, I was finalizing the discussions with his successor. He was away for too long. Especially without explanation or anything. And to this day, I still have no idea (beyond rumors) of what he was doing all this time.

So, without further delay, say hello to the new Commander of the Guard, Obelisk Battlemaster Shadow. Due to his great love for his Clan, I have decided to allow him to remain in Taldryan. However, this does place some restrictions on him. But I am sure he can deal with those. Congratulations!

2) It's this time of the year again. Yep, time for the commendations of loyalty. Each Clan gets 3 recommendations, to be sent to the Chancellor and myself. You have until January 7th to turn them in. Don't forget otherwise you don't get anything!

I personally get 5 recommendations, so if you think someone within your Clan should get one and you can't give it to him or her because you don't have enough, you can try to persuade me to do it for you.

3) I have a recommendation for a promotion this week. And it was soon followed by a couple of letters telling me I should do it. The recommendation was for Sith Battlelord Xanos Goatham Zorrixor, Consul of Clan Naga Sadow. While his clan is currently having a difficult time, I do believe he has been trying to improve things and I am sure that he will give it his best effort over the next couple of months.

4) Another award given this week is a Sapphire Blade for Sith Warlord Drako, Consul of Clan Satal Keto. He has been doing quite a bit for his Clan and until he reminded me (quite vocally), I admit I had forgotten about it. I'm nowhere near perfect and don't hesitate to come to me if you think I'm being forgetful with something. A nice quiet talk with me will achieve much. :)

5) The next 2 weeks or so probably will not be very busy in the Dark Brotherhood, so I will take this time to reflect on what has happened this past year and try to give you all a summary of the events of 2002 in the Dark Brotherhood. I invite the Clan Leaders to mail me a status report of their Clan and any contribution they think I should mention in my special report.