"Selected Works of Gaia part II"

"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 6)
DRUIDS NEWS #1226 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
Outbreak of War

Greetings druids

I wish to offer congratulations to Krissandra for her recent election to
guildmistress position, and of course extend my best wishes to those
than were unsuccessful at this time.

Now to business, there has been an outbreak of war as you may or may not
have read, note that your guild patron i do not wish to see this guild
dragged into any sort of war, those aiding Shallam or Ashtan do so for
their own purposes, but i would have thought you would all be more than
busy watching those citizens keep the war out of my realm and preserving
the forests.

Remember this guild was created with the protection and preservation of
nature and all its wonders not to aid weight in city affairs.

Be careful my druids.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature

Penned by my hand on the 15th of Scarlatan, in the year 234 AF. (-12 Mana)
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 1)
_____________________________________

       SELECTED WRITINGS BY GAIA

              PART II

        DRUID POSTS

______________________________________

Edited by Alayna and Narses




Published in 441 AF
Lake Bitterflow (+2 Mana)
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 2)
PREFACE

At this moment, those who have witnessed the Earth Mother as Patroness
of our Guild are in their seventies, and those who have seen Her before
her tragic departure in 305 are well in their fifties. It is for the
benefit of the younger generation of Druids that we have published the
writings of Gaia on the Druid boards in two volumes - especially for the
benefit of apprentice Druids who have no access to these boards.

A collection of posts, however profound, can, of course, not replace the
teachings of Gaia to Her followers as She still roamed the lands.
Nevertheless, Gaia's missives to the Guild she founded and patroned -
not taking into account a number of legal changes to Patronage
throughout the years - from its founding in 174 until 293, often deal
with concepts central to our ideology and values, and were of
fundamental importance in shaping them. Hence we felt it would be of
great value to have a collection of Her writings in a readily accessible
format. Later, collections of Her posts on the Public and the Oakstone
boards may appear, whereas an elaborate biography of Gaia is currently
being worked on.We have endeavoured to publish all of Her posts without
any pre-selection, as it would behubris to pre-select the postings of a
Divinity. We have divided her posts into six parts - a divisionthat is,
of course, highly subjective but may nevertheless be of help to the
reader. Also, a register ofwords at names with references to volume and
page numbers is supplied at the end of each volume.

My thanks go to my co-editor Alayna, who has been of great help in
transcribing these posts.

In memory of the Earth Mother,

Narses
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 3)
TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I

PREFACE..............................2
TABLE OF CONTENTS....................3

PART ONE: FORMATIVE YEARS

Welcome..............................6
The Druids Guild.....................7
Welcome to new Druids................8
Temple of Gaia.......................9
Druids Guild.........................10
Druids Guild II.....................11
Theology............................12
The Spawn...........................13
Your Prayer.........................14
Kharon..............................15
Kharon..............................16
Guildmaster & Secretary Positions...17

PART TWO: FROM RAGNORAK TO CHARNLEY

Guildmaster & Secretary............19
Leadership..........................20
Guild Patronage.....................21
Guild War...........................22
Guild Protection....................23
The Guild...........................24
Treaty..............................26
Treaty..............................27
Cactus Weed.........................28
Shadowsnakes........................29
Dormant Players.....................30
Patronage...........................31
Me..................................32
Hard Times..........................33
Everything..........................34
The Guild...........................35
This Situation......................36

PART THREE: THE DRUIDS AND HASHAN

This Madness........................38
One more thing......................39
Armies despoiling the forest........40
Cities..............................41
Firefox.............................42
Firefox's Crime.....................43
Firefox.............................44
Guild Patronage.....................45
Druids..............................46
Well spoken Dignity.................47

REGISTER............................48
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 4)
PART II

PREFACE.............................2
TABLE OF CONTENTS...................3

PART FOUR: TIMES OF PEACE AND TIMES OF WAR

Outbreak of War.....................6
Rituals and so forth................7
Rituals and so forth................8
The Guild and its leadership........9
Warfarin............................10
The Druids Guild...................11
Recent Guild Events................12
Your Behaviour.....................13
The Guild..........................14
The Guild..........................15
Guild Matters......................16
Shrines and Priests................17
Congratulation.....................18
Grove Preservation.................19
Guildmaster Contention.............20
Congratulations....................21
The Guild..........................22
Personal Views.....................23
New Shoppe for Druids..............24
Oakstone, Sentinels and Druids.....25

PART FIVE: THE DARKENWOOD RITUAL AND THE SECRET ELIXIRS

Today's events.....................27
Credit.............................28
The Book of the Sphinx.............29
Secret Elixirs.....................30
Spies..............................31
My disfavours......................32
Opinions...........................33

PART SIX: LANDMARKING, BALANCE AND THE GAIAN TREE

Landmarks..........................35
Deals, neutrality and persecution..36
Clarification......................37

REGISTER...........................38
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 5)
PART FOUR: TIMES OF PEACE AND TIMES OF WAR
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 6)
DRUIDS NEWS #1226 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
Outbreak of War

Greetings druids

I wish to offer congratulations to Krissandra for her recent election to
guildmistress position, and of course extend my best wishes to those
than were unsuccessful at this time.

Now to business, there has been an outbreak of war as you may or may not
have read, note that your guild patron i do not wish to see this guild
dragged into any sort of war, those aiding Shallam or Ashtan do so for
their own purposes, but i would have thought you would all be more than
busy watching those citizens keep the war out of my realm and preserving
the forests.

Remember this guild was created with the protection and preservation of
nature and all its wonders not to aid weight in city affairs.

Be careful my druids.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature

Penned by my hand on the 15th of Scarlatan, in the year 234 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 7)
DRUIDS NEWS #1247 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : ArchDruid Drethna
The Illusional Druid Subj: Rituals and so forth

Greetings Druids

Following on from Luna's post, i am in the process of overseeing a
garden for all plant types being brought into construction as the nature
of this garden would be a magical one, i shall keep it within the realm
of the gods.

If at such time as it become apparent that extinction of a plant species
has happened, something which must ALWAYS be prevented there will be an
available source.

The warehouse idea is a much more practical and druidic solution and
should of course provide the guild with a continuous supply of reagents.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature.

Penned by my hand on the 11th of Phaestian, in the year 234 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 8)
DRUIDS NEWS #1248 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : ArchDruid Drethna
The Illusional Druid Subj: Rituals and so forth

Dear Drethna

Your outline post on this matter intrigued me indeed, please avail
yourself in person to discuss this matter.

Of course any relevent ideas can of course be sent to me via special
courier gaia@achaea.com.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature
Penned by my hand on the 11th of Phaestian, in the year 234 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 9)
DRUIDS NEWS #1339 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj: The
Guild and its leadership

Greetings Druids

Well it seems your guild is enjoying (?) itself with a rather open ended
and never ending debate about numerous issues. Free speech and debate
are splendid ideals but unfortunatly while the debate goes on, the
actual job in hand gets forgotten.

Krissandra may seem tyrannical, but from my stand point she knows what
she believes good for the guild and keeps that goal in full view,
getting sidetracked into debate on something that isnt required is
pointless.

I believe clear and concise questions should be raised and that the same
should be the reply, of course those that are unhappy with their reply
or the current GM, the postion is of course elected.

If you think you can do better, either stand for election of support the
current administration do not fill the board and your fellow druids with
half truths and slights.

The debate over the cities is in part my doing, i have expressed doubt
the need that a druid would find with belonging to a city, yes use their
shops banks etc but becoming a member strikes me as peculiar for a
druid. The guild ever loyal to my service have decided to enforce this
as an issue, this of course is their right and i cannot believe a druid
could place his loyalty within the stone walls of a city.

Remember at all times what the druids stand for, protection of nature
and its many myriad resources.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature.

Penned by my hand on the 21st of Miraman, in the year 236 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 10)
DRUIDS NEWS #1379 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
Warfarin

Greetings Druids

I have spoken this day with Warfarin, he seems a most confused and
lonely monk. He has no concept of cause and effect, he failed to see
that many seek revenge upon him now for pass deeds, and his simple
request to stop all such actions don't simply stop the animosity he has
created.

I explained this point to him and i belive he grasped the issue, he
asked for help on this matter, i pointed out his misunderstanding and
explained that he had to turn the other cheek so to speak during his
change.

He has posted 3484 & 3485 and is trying to establish his new path.

Now druids i shall not order you not to attack him, but let you all
decide and judge him by his actions, he has given up his class and did
at least seem genuine.

I explained his actions will speak for him but it will take time, so i
shall watch and see. I however am just advising you all of the facts as
i saw them.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature.

Penned by my hand on the 15th of Glacian, in the year 236 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 11)
DRUIDS NEWS #1401 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj: The
Druids Guild

Greetings Druids

I dont often make direct postings and direction for the druids of
Achaea, but i feel that i must make you all take stock of the guild
postion.

Cynne first let me say your post was indeed a worthy post, HOWEVER i
have some small points of contention i shall now examine, listen to
these words druids, for i will soon be issuing my own disfavours and
retiribution on those that Harm or seek disruption within the guild.

Firstly meetings of this nature, would surely best be advised in
advance, i would like to know who was actually in attendence of this
meeting, also many of my children were either not invited or aware of
any such meeting.

Secondly there will be NO cliques, splinter groups from this guild, true
there will always be groups of friends but the reason a guild is formed
is to collect for the benefit of the whole those people who believe in
the same ideals and hopes.

You have all been granted skills that allow you to make use of Nature's
Gifts to this land, the role of this guild has been since its creation
the preservation and balance of my realm, those that feel they have
other reasons for being a druid should perhaps ask themselves are they
being fair to the gift i have given them. You have all been granted
skills that allow you to make use of Nature's Gifts to this land, the
role of this guild has been since its creation the preservation and
balance of my realm, those that feel they have other reasons for being a
druid should perhaps ask themselves are they being fair to the gift i
have given them.

Finally, i will not stand by this time to watch you as guild oust
another GM, remember that she was elected by those who decided she was
the suitable candidate at the time. However if you believe she is no
longer you should challenge this postion, DO NOT let me find druids
stand on the sidelines hurling abuse but are unwilling to do anything
about it.

The druids have always been a tight knit community, do not let others
distract your for their own reasons. And warn those that do, that what
is given by the gods can also be taken away.

Your Guild Patron and Goddess of Nature.

Gaia

Penned by my hand on the 1st of Valnuary, in the year 237 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 12)
DRUIDS NEWS #1420 Date: 1/3/2000 at 13:34 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature
To : Everyone Subj: Recent Guild Events

Greetings Druids

I would like to say it has saddened me greatly that i again have had to
take a direct hand within this guild to ensure the long term benefit of
the druids. I shant explain the full depths of the problem here, but any
that seek some guidance are as always welcome to come seek my audience.

I trust that we shall all work together with Druidic council and GM
towards a better and harmonic guild striding to do what has always been
the druids path, that of balancing and preserving nature within this
realm.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature.

Penned by my hand on the 1st of Chronos, in the year 237 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 13)
DRUIDS NEWS #1421 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Rufus Subj: Your
Behaviour

Rufus

I shall address my answer to you so that the druids and most importantly
you, may see your folly.

During todays events, your view on one particular point caused you to
state very publically over the guild channel that i was speaking
nonsense, that surely should have been enough for you to realize that
you had gone too far.

However i understood your passion and your sincerity in you arguement
and simply replied that you should pray for forgivness over this
disrepectful statement. However you choose to reply that you were an
Aethist and how was it possible to pray. I leave it for the individual
to now understand why i dispatched you to prayer for your soul from
Sarapis.

Not content with this you then decided to continue with your "smart"
comment over the Guild Channel, i simply decided to remove your voice
before you caused yourself serious punishment.

I now find that you continue to write further insults on the guild
board.

You will understand that whatever you believe concerning the Gods of
Achaea, you will show respect or suffer the consquences. I will expect a
written apology on this board or i shall show you the full meaning of my
wrath.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature

Penned by my hand on the 1st of Chronos, in the year 237 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 14)
DRUIDS NEWS #1445 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj: The
guild

Greetings Children

I am very pleased so far with what i have seen, perhaps this is a new
beginning for the guild as a whole. The recent events have quite upset
me, the main message that has come through seems to be unity for the
good of the guild.

Im glad you have as a guild seen what happens when the guild breaks away
from its original path and harmony. My children i expect all of you who
can vote to vote and i shall look forward to receiveing whoever shall
win this contest into what shall be much nicer era.

Please i ask one last boon of you druids, whoever may win, please
understand that they may not be your personal choice but all dislikes
and disagreements must be done in an honorable and proper fashion.
Remember the Guild Master/Mistress is your figurehead and is to be
respected for that role.

Go with my blessings my druids, and i am always available to those that
seek out my discussion.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature.

Penned by my hand on the 24th of Chronos, in the year 237 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 15)
DRUIDS NEWS #1452 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj: The
guild

Greetings druids

It seems we are returning to what the guild was in the times of my
reawakening when Galadriel, Buckthorn, Vivien and Haidion were abounding
the land.

Trust me my dear druids, working together helping one another is the
best path, keep up the good work.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature.

Penned by my hand on the 22nd of Glacian, in the year 237 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 16)
DRUIDS NEWS #1474 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
Guild Matters

Greetings Druids

Ive finally arrived back in touch with this realm after being away and
firstly id like to congratulate Sog on becoming the elected GM.

His posts seem fairly clear, the role of GM is tough and support from
you all is and will be needed, lets keep this one please dears, it
upsets me to see the guild being dragged through such turmoil.

Keep up the postings, this is what the message boards are for,
communication.

Oh and finally, i would like to suggest that the guild create a Guild
Journal, something the new and old druids alike can read that will
collect the information that helps a druid know his stuff. An example
would be to have this journal in the Guild Hall Entrance so that it can
be read by all druids entering the guild hall.

Just a suggestion for my favourite guild.

Just a suggestion for my favourite guild.

Penned by my hand on the 16th of Ero, in the year 238 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 17)
DRUIDS NEWS #1555 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
Shrines and Priests

Greetings Druids

Just to clarify a few points concerning shrines and rites and the church
in general.

Yes i allowed the shrine to stand, i myself have erected the shrine
within my temple over 50 years ago, remember once i was patron not only
of the druids but the Priests, Sentinels and the former Paladins guilds.

There has never been a direct ban on shrines just a polite verbal
agreement from the church to withold putting shrines with the forests,
its a case of preserving the forests neutrality. If you have many
shrines you will have many priests which will in turn end up drawing in
more of their enemies, is this a path we want ? (i think not)

And with regards to the animals of the forest, the depletion is balanced
out with natural life cycle, so never worry there will always be a
steady population maintained or i would step in and stop their
sacrifices.

And heed Mandrakes post regarding rites, why miss out delightful rites,
which benefit yourself. But remember we will still maintain that all
shrines will be passed through myself for approval.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature

Penned by my hand on the 12th of Scarlatan, in the year 240 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 18)
DRUIDS NEWS #1616 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Mandrake Diamante,
Balance of Nature Subj: Congratulation

Greetings Druids

I know this job was placed upon you with the regretable departure of
Sog, congratulation however and im sure your do a wonderful job and the
druids would agree they will support you as all guildmemebers are
honoured to support their Guildmaster.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature.

Penned by my hand on the 1st of Miraman, in the year 241 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 19)
DRUIDS NEWS #1715 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
Grove Preservation

Greetings Druids

Grove Preservation stops extermination of groves if you didnt already
know, Use it of lose it (g)

and

With the new LASTHARVEST changes it should make life for those that
overharvest a lot harder to blame on others.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature

Penned by my hand on the 2nd of Sarapin, in the year 244 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 20)
DRUIDS NEWS #1777 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Archdruid Gunthar,
the Ever Faithful Subj: Guildmaster Contention

Greetings Gunthar

Regarding your last post concerning msg and tells why you are running
and why you would make a better GM than Mandrake, i formally request
that you do in fact post your statement where all can see and judge.

Thank you in advance for your post and good luck to all the contestants,
and remember the guild comes before all personal ambition.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature

Penned by my hand on the 2nd of Lupar, in the year 246 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 21)
DRUIDS NEWS #1800 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Transcendent
Mandrake Diamante, Lord of Nature Subj: Congratulations

Congratulations Mandrake

May you continue your excellent work running this guild, and thankyou
Druids for seeing sense and re-electing what is the best choice for the
guild.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature

Penned by my hand on the 14th of Mayan, in the year 246 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 22)
DRUIDS NEWS #2042 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj: The
Guild

I would like to congratulate Gunthar on becoming Guildmaster and both of
his competitors, a valiant attempt under the circumstances.

That being said, Gunthar is now GM, and all of you who care about the
guild will now help him and myself continue the stabilty that this guild
has achieved and further it onto better things.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature

Penned by my hand on the 14th of Ero, in the year 254 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 23)
DRUIDS NEWS #2053 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
Personal Views

Greetings Druids

I thought i would just make a point involving the last few posts.

Firstly everyone within this guild and i shall contain this post to
druids are entitled as they feel, of course dont forget that there are
some guild morals ie protection of the forests, upholding to help other
druids and generally everyone helping each other as a guild. And of
course hurting natures plants is a big no no !

Now after saying this everyone is entitled to their own opinion, whether
you choose to voice it is entirely your own decision, In the case of
Istavan and Silverwind, its seems Istavan is rather uncaring of others
feelings which i suppose is just his way, and if your in any doubt
Silverwind i think your actually a good druid and deserves more respect
than that, and i guess your just have to decide whose opinion is of more
weight.

Now that didnt take long, yes my opinion, as for you Istavan if you are
going to act like a sour grape for whatever reason i suggest you do it a
long way from my friends i call the druids guild, either treat your
fellow druids with some respect as treating them roughshod i would say
isnt particularly guild orientated.

I hope this is enough said on this matter.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature

Penned by my hand on the 2nd of Glacian, in the year 254 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 24)
DRUIDS NEWS #2085 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj: New
Shoppe for Druids

Greetings Druids

I have spoken with Sarapis and you may buy the one and only Crystal Inn
shop for a sum of 250K.

I would suggest you take this offer as this shop is not controlled by
any government and is centralized within Achaea and open to all. As well
as being historically a druidic premises.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature

Penned by my hand on the 6th of Phaestian, in the year 255 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 25)
DRUIDS NEWS #2116 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
Oakstone, Sentinels and Druids

Greetings Druids

Whilst we are still in the throws on the election, i would like to
announce that in case you didnt know i have be honoured again to become
the Patron of the Sentinels guild, so of course i shall not necessarily
always be listening to the druids channel. Therefore druids do not be
afraid to message me if i dont respond via the guild channel.

Secondly once this guild has appointed a new Guildmaster/Mistress we
will have a complete unified association of forest folk, namely the
Oakstone, Druids and Sentinels. We shall be making use of this unity my
children, and through the three organizations we shall be strengthening
our postion within the land.

(And Istavan that doesnt mean we get to sack all the cities im afraid
*g*).

But i say this in warning to those who often leave their guilds for the
merest slight, do not leave, times are a changing and in my opinion
rouge druids hurt our collective postion. I shall be calling the biggest
council of Oakstone where the GM and secretaries and council of Oakstone
shall all be present and such matters will be discussed.

Gaia, Goddess of Nature

Penned by my hand on the 24th of Daedalan, in the year 256 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 26)
PART FIVE: THE  DARKENWOOD RITUAL AND THE SECRET ELIXIRS
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 27)
DRUIDS NEWS #2963 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
Today's events

Today has been a rather eventful day to say the least. First I returned
to the realms to find the bodies of My most faithful servents, the
dryads, piked in My temple. A Rite of Passing was performed and My
children laid to rest.

Their bodies in the sacred ground caused the watchtowers to spring forth
from the earth. These are great pillars of Natural power that have not
been seen since ancient times. Their arrival is pleasing to Me, though
its nature was not. Select members of My order will be chosen to learn
the secrets of the monoliths and will use them in the future.

A few days ago, Orina came to Me requesting My opinion on a proposal
made by Xandor. I spoke to Xandor and got all the particulars and told
Orina that as the Lady of Nature it was her decision and I would fully
support whatever it may be.

She asked if it would hurt Me and I assured her it would not. I also
assured her that there was no way that this ritual could result in any
permanent damage to the forests.

The ritual was performed and the forests embued with dark essence. Many
ask what this means and so I will tell you.

The forests have been embued with darkness. This means that they are not
as they were. They will likely produce a bit slower now. However, the
total essence of the forest is now greatly increased.

Does this cause Me pain? Yes, a little. It also hurts Lord Twilight as
it is a constant drain upon Him.

This pain is not unbearable to either of us.

What do we gain from this? The Order of Twilight will consider the
forests sacred as We do. Thus an attack upon the forest is an attack
upon the Order of Twilight. Those of Hashan who may have hesitated to
ally with Us before, theoretically, need not hesitate anymore.

What will happen now? Well there are several things that could happen.
In time the forest will purge itself of the taint. This is the doing of
mortals, it is not like Twilight darkening the forest and so it cannot
be permanent. As the forest goes through its normal cycle of
rejuvenation, the taint will eventually be washed away.

If the ritual is completed, the essence will culminate in a location
prepared for them and form a very small forest of pure darkness. The
forest will not be large, as it must be created of concentrated essence.
It would probably be about the size of the Hillside Wood. This will
obviously be a location sacred to Twilight's Order and I would ask that
no one venture there without His permission for your own protection.
Contrary to what has been said, it is not I who will be angry, but
presumably He would.

An alternative to both of these is to abort the ritual and drive the
darkness from the forests. I have told Orina exactly what must be done
to do this. It will involve a similar ritual as has already taken place
but with the support a follower of light. The forest will then be imbued
with light in order to drive out the darkness. When this happens, the
shadows will probably linger for awhile, having no where to go. They may
prove troublesome but probably not in an overly dangerous way. As this
has never been attempted before, I cannot say for sure.

It is unfortunate that the decision to invite the darkness was made
without the knowlege of everyone involved, I do truly regret that. But
now everyone has all the facts, and you can make an informed decision
together.

I do truly regret that this decision was made without the input of
everyone involved. I am providing this information to make sure that you
are all informed of the options so that you can make a wise decision
together. I am withholding My opinion on this, this is your decision. I
am sorry if this upsets anyone but I feel that those who have been
entrusted with the care of Nature should be wise enough to make educated
decisions about Her treatment. If you have any more questions, do not
hesitate to ask Me for I will be more than happy to answer them to the
extent of My knowledge.

Please share this information with Oakstone and whoever else you feel it
may pertain to. Be well children, take care of one another.

Penned by my hand on the 25th of Mayan, in the year 279 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 28)
DRUIDS NEWS #2984 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
credit

Let us give credit where credit is due.

I did not tell Jallah of this ritual, he knew of it as it has been
performed in the past before the time of Nicator. The original ritual
used sunlight energy from the forest, it was Jallah's idea to use the
darkness in the same way, thus naturally drawing it out and putting it
to constructive use.

While I am still a little concerned with what the possible outcome of
this ritual might be, considering you will be using dark essence in a
way that has never been attempted, I am pleased with Jallah's forthright
thinking and as such, he wears My favour.

Penned by my hand on the 8th of Miraman, in the year 280 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 29)
DRUIDS NEWS #3181 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj: The
Book of the Sphinx

This book needs to be updated.

With the new novice program and the changes it has brought about with
the Sphinx Group, among other things, I believe it is exceedingly
important that this tome be updated as soon as possible.

What I would like to see are rewrites of some sections with updated
information and the novice and inguilding policies outlined in detail.

I would also like to see the information presented in a more IC manner,
with perhaps OOC notes where necessary as footnotes at the bottom.

I suggest you split up the work amongst a group of you with each taking
a few sections. You may send these updates to me at Gaia@achaea.com and
I will see them transcribed as soon as I recieve them. If you choose to
get artistic, I implore you to keep in mind the width of the book's
pages.

You may send Me the sections whenever they are done, you needn't wait
til it is all complete. I will update the table of contents myself.

I, reserve the right to edit content for grammar, spelling, flow and
in-character-ness. Each page you submit must bear your signature. If I
don't know who I recieved it from, I will discard it.

I don't see any reason why this task can't be completed by the next New
Years.

Take care of one another,

Gaia, the Earthmother

Penned by my hand on the 9th of Phaestian, in the year 283 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 30)
DRUIDS NEWS #3200 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
Secret elixers

For centuries the eldest among us have known the secrets of
long-forgotten elixers. And for centuries these secrets were kept. The
elixers recently discovered were not new, but ancient.

These wise elders knew that making these elixers known even to their own
could have disasterous consequences, and thus only shared them with
their most trusted proteges and friends. Now, however, these secrets
have been rediscovered, made common knowlege not only to those members
of the guild who may not be mature enough to keep them in the old ways,
but they have been made known to others outside the guild and outside
the forest.

Istavan has ordered that these elixers be kept secret, that they not be
made, and I have backed him up on these orders hoping that they would
fade again into secrecy, but alas, it was not to be.

The formulas have been taken outside the guild. The elixers have shown
up in shops in Ashtan and Shallam.

Is it fair that only a few chosen Druids be permitted to know these
powerful secrets? Is it fair that only a few chosen of My order be
taught the secrets of My temple?

These powerful elixers have the potential not only to essentially
destroy your herb market, but to make those who wish to harm the forest
twice as powerful as they are now. Using the elixers in combination with
herbs would make any fighter virtually invulnerable. Thus the secrets of
their creation were best kept in the hands of the most trusted and
mature individuals.

But alas, My children have chosen to forsake their own tradition and
have made these formulas available to all of the Druids and the
Sentinels and some have even chosen to distribute them to those who
would harm the forest.

Thus, I have decided that these elixers shall be no more. I have erased
them from mortal memory. You will find the formulas as you remember them
no longer work.

Many will be angry or upset that all must be punished for the actions of
a few, but perhaps it will teach you and your forest ken what it is to
respect My gifts and My wishes regarding their use as well as the
ancient and sacred traditions that have been held dear for so long. It
is sad really, there aren't many traditions left now.

Take care of one another.

Penned by my hand on the 1st of Scarlatan, in the year 284 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 31)
DRUIDS NEWS #3215 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
spies

I have spoken to Istavan and several others regarding spies and traitors
within the guild and all suspects are being carefully investigated.
However, this is a family and you are all My children. If you think it
should be easy for a mother to throw her child out on the street without
hard slap-in-the-face evidence of a serious transgression, I'm afraid
you underestimate Me and the familial bond I expect from you.

Penned by my hand on the 24th of Scarlatan, in the year 284 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 32)
DRUIDS NEWS #3225 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj: My
disfavours

I have recently had to bestow My disfavour upon Shaja for her post. This
post not only aired guild business to the public, but it was riddled
with symptoms of a strange and mysterious disease called OOC.

Let it be known that airing guild business to the public will be
considered treason. This includes complaining about leadership as well
as giving away secrets. This does not mean you can't vent to your
friends about something that happened in the guild, but it does mean you
are not to shout it or post it publically.

Also let it be known that I will deal with any blatant symptoms of OOC I
see anywhere(especially public boards). Sadly, it seems that the only
cure for this disease is a Divine Disfavour or similar action and I
won't hesitate administer doses of this cure as often as I feel it's
necessary. This is a disease that has been known not only to cause
general confusion and lack of character, but it is very good at sucking
the fun right out of any situation.

If you have a situation that you are having trouble resolving without
succombing to the effects of this affliction, do not hesitate to seek My
council. I will be more than happy to help you find a solution.

Always remember when speaking in public that you are representative of
your guild, your order, and any other organization you may belong to,
regardless of your standing in it and speak accordingly.

Take care of one another.

Penned by my hand on the 22nd of Ero, in the year 284 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 33)
DRUIDS NEWS #3233 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
opinions

I actually have several points to make, but we shall begin with the
opinions.

No one is to be disfavoured for voicing their opinion provided it is
done respectfully and bears no blatant signs of the aforementioned
affliction. I understand that giving RL dates and times are often
necessary for clarity and thus are to be overlooked.

Secondly, I don't believe some of you who are so angry are really paying
attention to what is said here.

Kadessa was punished for more than just her post.

Shaja was not punished for a post on the Druid board, but for a post on
the public board.

I give out many more favours than disfavours. In fact, I give out very
few disfavours and when I do, I always explain the reason for them.

Regarding those who have betrayed us. Once again I will state that no
one is to be publically accused much less punished without sufficient
proof. Right now we have several rumors to work on, but that is all.
Sadly, most of my research team has been largely unavailable of late and
I have been unable to followup on many of these rumors.

Finally, I would like to thank those who assisted Me in messing with the
Sartanites regardless of the fact that most of the world misses the
point and doesn't get our joke. We have proven several things. 1. The
Sartanites enemy people for stupid reasons. 2. They can be easily
manipulated, i.e. led around by the nose like sheep. and 3. We really
have nothing to fear from them. (I realize that some of you died, but
you stated yourselves it was no more than usual, and some of you were
not touched at all.)

I would like to take My little joke a bit further, but I must think on a
way to do it without putting you in more danger. Hm... perhaps they
could even be manipulated into doing something useful for a change.

As an aside, but no less important, several people have come to Me
privately regarding problems within the guild. The main problem stated
being lack of unity as many disagree, have different goals, etc.

Not only does this make Me very unhappy, but it defies My understanding.
You are Druids, you have but one goal, you are the stewards of the
forest, your goal is to do what is best for it. Where is the problem?

I can see how people might disagree on exactly what is best for the
forest and how to go about achieving it, but you are a family. Families
work things out. If you can't work things out you ask your mother for
advice. That would be Me.

I have been asked to post My opinion regarding the election. I realize
it is now a little late, but I shall do as I have been bid.

The Druids need a leader who will make decisions based on what is best
for the forest regardless of emotional ties and regardless of who might
be hurt by it.

This leader must be unafraid of the effects of such decisions.

Be well children. Do take care of one another.

Penned by my hand on the 20th of Valnuary, in the year 284 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 34)
PART SIX: LANDMARKING, BALANCE AND THE GAIAN TREE
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 35)
DRUIDS NEWS #3492 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
Landmarks

It seems there has been a misunderstanding regarding landmarks. It has
been decided that the Tree will cycle with each Crossing to demonstrate
the endless cycles of life and death which exist within Nature.

This year, there was a considerable amount of resistance to changing it
from a symbol of death to a symbol of life. Thus, it became necessary to
create a diversion by working on the other landmarks to draw attention
away from the Tree.

Next Crossing, we will be returning the Tree to its death aspect, thus
completing the cycle once again. If a great deal of resistance in
encountered from Shallam, it may prove necessary to create another
diversion by changing the landmarks against them, thus drawing -their-
attention away from the Tree. However, considering the lack of
enthousiasm the church has been showing of late regarding such matters,
and the fact that they have proven far more reasonable in the past, I
highly doubt that will prove necessary.

I am told that a deal is being worked out with Ashtan regarding the Tree
so that diversions of this sort shouldn't be necessary in the future. I
believe it involves a promise from My Children to leave the other
landmarks alone in exchange for the Tree being left alone. This
agreement is suitable to Me, but I am not the one making it. Once the
particulars are hammered out, I am certain that those involved will post
here with the details.

For further clarification, 'we' refers to My Order. I certainly do not
require every Druid to follow My orders in this regard, as the Tree
cycle is part of Gaian devotional worship. Any who wish are, of course,
welcome to participate, as I consider all of you My children, regardless
of your chosen patron.

The Tree is a symbol and like all symbols it only holds meaning for the
person who chooses to assign meaning to it. If it has no meaning to you,
then it is pretty pointless to fuss with it. It is up to each of you to
decide for yourself what it symbolizes, if anything. No one will enforce
upon you an predefined meaning.

Take care of one another,

Gaia, the Earthmother

Penned by my hand on the 5th of Chronos, in the year 291 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 36)
DRUIDS NEWS #3514 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
Deals, neutrality and persecution

Many have asked Me about the Darkenwood 'deal'. There is no deal between
Twilight and Myself. He has requested that no one harvest in His temple.
If there is to be a deal regarding Darkenwood, that is for the Arachnoi
to make, and failing that, their kin.

The Darkenwood was not formed to balance good and evil, Nature is not
concerned with these concepts as they do not exist within Nature. The
forest is perfectly capable of purging impurities from itself with the
proper cycling of time, light and darkness, and the usual amounts of
air, water and nutrient soil. This is the beauty of the forest. Without
it, you would all sufficate with the poisons that all creatures create
as part of their own cycle. Many of these poisons the forest considers
'food' (for lack of a better term).

The forming of Darkenwood was made necessary by the fact that a species
had been created which had no natural habitat. This upset the balance of
Nature greatly. It went beyond introducing a foreign species to the
environment, which I'm sure you will all agree can be a disastrous
thing. But a foreign species was introduced to the world. This species
had no choice but to either perish, or find a way to survive, likely by
shoving another species out of the way or causing some other sort of
havoc. The forming of Darkenwood headed off these eventualities.

It is irrelevant HOW this species was created except that the process of
their creation made the forming of Darkenwood possible. There was
residual darkness in the forest ready to be formed into an environment.

As far as neutrality goes, I will reiterate that Good and Evil are not
concepts that exist in Nature. Nature exists out of necessity, thus all
paths which keep the wheel spinning are worthy.

This guild is not Mine, it is yours. It is up to you to decide where the
Druids reside on the Wheel.

However, I will state that if I see anyone persecuting another Druids
for stating his or her opinion, that person will answer to Me. I do
believe I've said this before. Further, I would like to remind you all
that posting insults does not count as stating your opinion.

Take care of one another,

Gaia, the Earthmother

Penned by my hand on the 16th of Sarapin, in the year 292 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 37)
DRUIDS NEWS #3520 From: Gaia, Goddess of Nature To : Everyone Subj:
clarification

I do not believe that the Darkenwood -is- in Twilight's temple. I only
know that Twilight did not want people harvesting in His temple, which
seemed reasonable. I do believe, but I can't be sure as I don't wander
there much, that the entrance to one of His temples is in the vicinity
and possibly within the Darknewood itself.

Penned by my hand on the 20th of Sarapin, in the year 292 AF.
You read what is written on a black leather journal:
"Selected Works of Gaia part II", By Dreaming Druidess Samakhulis Moonflair (Page 38)
Animals.................................I: 12; II: 17
Arawn....................................I: 24
Ashtan...................................I: 38; II: 6, 35
Atheism.................................II: 13
Aurora....................................I: 38
Balance..................................II: 36 (see also: Landmarks)
Buckthorn..............................I: 7, 10, 13, 17, 19; II: 15
Cactus Weed........................I: 28, 29
Chaos.....................................I: 13, 38
Charnley................................I: 34, 35
Cities......................................I: 41, 46; II: 6, 9
Citizenship............................I: 46; II: 9 (see also:
Neutrality)
Claryssa.................................I: 36
Cliques...................................II: 11
Cynne.....................................II: 11
Concoctions..........................I: 34
Council of the Moon............I: 22
Crystal Leaf Shop.................II: 24
Darkenwood Ritual...............II: 27, 28, 36, 37
Dashel.....................................I: 36
Dormancy...............................I: 30
Druidettes...............................I: 35
Dryads....................................II: 27
Elections................................I: 17, 19, 20, 35; II: 12, 14,
20, 21
Elixirs, Secret.........................II: 30, 31
Eris..........................................I: 38
Firefox.....................................I: 42, 43, 44, 45, 46
Freedom of speech...............I: 35, 36; II: 9, 33
Gaian Tree/Thoth's Bough...II: 35 (See also: Landmarks)
Galadriel................................II: 15
Greenhouse...........................II: 7
Groves....................................I: 9, 34
Grove Preservation..............II: 19
Guild Journal.........................II: 16, 29
Guildhall.................................I: 8, 11; II: 16
Gunthar................................II: 20, 22
Haidion..................................I: 7, 8, 17, 19, 26, 27; II: 15
Harvesting.............................I:46
Hashan...................................I: 38, 40, 42, 43, 44; II: 27
(see also: Twilight, Neutrality)
Hunting..................................I: 12, 46 (see also: Animals)
Isildur.....................................I: 38
Istavan..................................II: 23, 25, 30
Ithmia....................................I: 38, 39, 42
Jallah.....................................II: 28
Jordi.......................................I: 29
Kadessa................................II: 33
Kharon...................................I: 15, 16, 24, 26, 27
Krissandra............................II: 6, 9
Lalayna..................................I: 38
Landmarks............................II: 35
Lastharvest..........................II: 19 (