The Ireem Chronicles

For the benefits of our citizens, here is a copy of the laws of Ireem. 

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LAWS AND FINES IN IREEM

Sultana
1. Attempted Murder: 2500g
2. Assault: 1500g
3. Threat against the Sultana: 1000g
4. Insult or Disobey: 500g and Inprisonment (15min max within the city jails.)

Royal Family & Harem
1. Attempted Murder: 1500g
2. Assault:  800g
3. Threat: 500g
1. Trespassing: 100g and Inprisonment (15min max within the city jails.)

The City, Ireem
1. Drawn Weapon inside the City Walls: 50G (Raiders are omitted.)
2. Naked inside the City Walls: (imprisoned if completely naked, no gold fine.)
3. Robbery: Automatically reported by the Owner

Other Crimes inside the City Walls
1. Attempted Murder: 200g
2. Murder: 300g
3. Rape / Sexual Assault: 150g
4. Theft / Pickpocketing: manually reported by the Owner

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Royal Wedding

A GLORIOUS ROYAL WEDDING

~ written by Pasha

It was a spectacular day in Ireem when our beloved Princess Page was taken in marriage to the handsome Prince Rexie.

Most of the residents of Ireem were present as the beautiful Princess Page walked down the aisle.  A collective gasp was heard at the vision of her loveliness as she floated gracefully down the aisle to take her place beside her betrothed.

  Prince Rexie beamed with pride as he gazed upon our dear Princess.. soon to be his wife. 

Sultana Zanlu officiated at the ceremony and surprised everyone with the first words being for Prince Rexie, "First of all.. I have some words for you, Lord Rexie.  You have been a very much a gentleman since the first day that we met..Loyal, generous, gentle..and now you are going to get married to a Princess. Well...I take this opportunity for promoting you Prince.  First of all because you deserve this title for your great behavior and, second, because I don't want see you at her side as prince-consort." With this comment, Sultana gave a little grin.  then bestowed on him the title of Prince Rexie. 

Sultana then asked each of them to receive the other as their spouse and to pledge their love, faith, loyalty and devotion. 

Sultana then looked to both of them saying, "Receive each other, by saying now, each to the other, words which will tell of your love."

Prince Rexie first spoke as he gazed in Princess Page's eyes, " I, Prince Rexie take you, Page,  to be no other than yourself, in all the ways life may find us, tending you in sickness and rejoicing with you in health, as long as we both shall live to love with my whole heart forever."

As Princess Page began to speak, you could hear a pin drop as all eyes and ears stood ready to hear her pledge of love to Prince Rexie, "I, Page Siegel take you, Prince Rexie, to be no other than yourself, in all the ways life may find us, tending you in sickness and rejoicing with you in health, as long as we both shall live to love."

The loving couple exhanged rings as Sultana spoke, " This circlet of precious metal is justly regarded as a fitting emblem of the purity and perpetuity of the Marriage State. The ancients were reminded by the circle of eternity, as it is so fashioned as to have neither beginning nor end; while gold is so incorruptible that it cannot be tarnished by use or time. So may the union, at this time solemnized, be incorruptible in its purity and more lasting that time itself. In this hope may they keep the vows made on this day, in freedom, teaching each other who they are, what they yet shall be, enabling them to know that in the fullness of being, they are more than themselves and more than each other; that they are all of us, and that together we share joyously the fruits of life.”

Finally the moment that everyone waited for arrived when Sultana said "And as Page and Rexie have declared their love and devotion to each other before family and friends, I now greet them with you as husband and wife. Now you will feel no rain, for each of you will be sanctuary to the other. Now you will feel no cold, for each of you will be warmth to the other. Now there is no isolation for you. Now there is no more loneliness. Now you are two, but there is only one life in front of you. Go now and enter into the days of your togetherness.”

Everyone present jumped to their feet applauding the couple as they walked hand and hand down the aisle as man and wife. 

(Princess Page  asked that if anyone sketched any images of the wedding ((photos)), she would be very appreciative if they would share them with her since she was not able to hire anyone to provide that service.  She offered that she would be happy to exchange coin for such images.  Please contact Princess Page if you would like to share.)

Dear Ireem

    I, Aizen Hellscreamer, would like to thank Ireem for their votes so far and taking the time to read this.  I would like everyone know that this is not a quest for power nor fame, but a quest to bring the arena games back to life!  I believe I am more then qualified to manage the arena for many reasons.  I promise Ireem that I will go out of my way as much as possible to at least have four events a month.  I plan to organize ranked matches, where you and your comrades can form teams and put not only your foes strength to the test, but their teamwork as well! Finally there will be a true reason to shed blood on the sands, and that reason is honor and glory!  Prizes will include gold, food, servants and perhaps ..virgins...
  
    So please Ireem, continue to vote for me and make the Arena a birthplace of gods and goddesses.

Vote Aizen

The Blue Parrot Tavern, strategically located in Kashkar by the river bordering the city of Ireem, is now bustling with activities again!  Countless whiz pass this crossroad of sorts on their way to the city, or chasing down a prey, and yes it is a convenient stopover for the likes of slavers to give their catch a quick lesson before dragging them off to the auction.  Beyond the unassuming facade, this resplendent little gem has served the purpose of many tribes, human or more.

The Ireem Chronicles find this assignment given to the form of a Nanny, who managed to return with the interview information cast onto several soggy parchments, unfortunately falling into the river did not kill her, but office cat drowns in making sense of the messy notes for print.

The new owner, Miss Mari, gave a warm welcome, introduced herself and almost immediately offered a vast array of services beyond bread and rum!

"You found her, anything I can do for you? Smuggle? Steal? Hide a body?" then tilt her chin to the masked man at the entrance "I have talented friends."

Looks like there will be fascinating activities to look forward to from this venue, and the pretty young woman who owns it seemed unabashed to emphasise she has the backing of many friends.

This special menu made old nanny laugh so hard she choked  on her own saliva and coughed til a tear rolled down her cheeks, but the young lady seemed more concerned with the fame and fortune that being in the news would bring her.  Good, she may be young but smart and exudes strength, she is going to do well.

When asked what are her plans for the tavern, sitting back in the rickety chair Mari smiled and crossed her ankles on the tabletop with a content sigh,

"My plans.. I hadn't really thought too much into the future. i just knew the money to be had in Ireem these days is in food and drink, what with all the tired warriors needing a place to rest after the raiding." and in a quieter tone would wink and murmmer "And I hope to see to their other needs once the slavers start bringing in girls of good quality."

Nanny Moon, while asking questions, had been food-tasting and trying a little bit of all the foods on the table, and at this point must say, the cheese is aged well and smell..well ya..smells.. And the bread is strange to touch and seemed to roll off the table upon contact.. perhaps it was the young lady's toes I pinched.  She was sitting with her feet up on the table looking like a scallywag, I had to find out what she is.

"Ah smart of you to see the lucrative opportunities.. Do you smell fish?" Looking around the tavern I saw a tub of water in the back and teased asking if the masked man still sitting outside was one of the good-quality catches from the slavers, and would have a splash with old nanny in the tub.  We may have strike a chord there as Mari started stammering then and was looking somewhat uneasy as she replied shaking her head and frowning,

"You can say he caught me in a manner of speaking, and no.. I dont smell fish but perhaps the sea air is a bit stagnant in here today."

"But I suppose it is the seabreeze..Perhaps you would like to share a little about yourself to our readers.  Are all in Ireem welcomed to your tavern?"

Mari smiled and nodded, "Aye, everyone is welcome to The Blue Parrot. Leave ya politics and talk of those evil crystals at the door I say!"

"That's great! So..no bouncy type guards at the door to keep those filthy undeads out?"

Mari seemed secretive and still did not reveal what she is after random mention of several types of beings that lurk in Kashkar.  A chuckle from upstairs was heard at the mention of the Undeads.. Seems another of her friends was watching over us nearby.

"Noone will be kept out, I mean to try and bring everyone back together if I can. " Then look up at the ceiling in a louder tone Mari said, "Hopefully with some help!"

"Yes , yes very noble idea indeed to bring all together.."

my old frail neck made my head wobble as my eyes followed the young lady's looking up to the ceiling..I sure hope not to be morphed into the nanny form next time I turn human,

"ohh yes..I'm not that old..really.. perhaps I have developed special powers, I hear the walls speak some..hmm.." thoughts crumbled into a mess as old memories flits into current reality " Are the bar wenches for hire? My friend is interested in a quickie." With an attempt to mask the senile old brain's folly, I laughed loudly and asked "Do staff from the Chronicles get free drinks in your establishment?"

"Aye um, we are always in need of brewers and pleasure wenches, even dancers if the rabble want a bit of clean entertainment. The girls can decide for themselves if they want some extra coin for the service though with the pretty faces walking around these days I don't think much coaxing will be necessary."  With a cheeky wink she continued, "And no one drinks for free love, it's a business not a charity."

Nanny instinctively mirrored leaning in almost touching noses with the young lady, eyes crossed and nodding to what the pretty girl said, smiling..

"There are few but known establishments in Ireem who in recent days have organised all sorts of events to gather loyalty from their cliental.. Are you going to have events here? If there is one you would like to take this opportunity to advertise perhaps tell us about it? "

The adorable playful Mari smiled and answered the crossed eyes with a pair of her own as she struggled to control her giggle,

"Aye, I havent worked out the details yet but there are several pieces of treasure gone missing that I may employ the peoples assistance, in exchange for some nice gold coins for the one who brings them all to me of course. I've also in a mind to showcase some of the less prominent faces and make them known to the city by having them do.. a bit of work for me.  Aye there will be plenty to do and see in the old place, and I have just the resources to help me pull it off."

Thank you Mari, it is most delightful meeting you!  We shall look forward to your events!

A brand new gossips column, brought to you by our brave and frankly somewhat idiotic Whispers team!

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  Now that the dust has been settle, we must congratulate all the election winners once again!  If you haven’t yet, you can read our office cat’s fantastic article about them.  But, that is for the winners.  What we are bring you is stories of all the dirty tricks, back stabbing, and other funny and disgusting tactics that some of those losers were trying to use in order to win an election.

  The biggest drama of all, was of course coming from the pirate slavers!  When they were giving the choice between a candidate who has more slaves than the number of words he can strings together in one sentence, or a woman who has turn sides more often than very well fried pancake in the bakery, you would have thought the sensible decision would be voting for NO LEADER.  Alas, they are obviously not a bright bunch (Remember, these are the bunch of bright souls who last voted in a leader who got humiliated every week from everyone, including from his own slaves).  From what we heard, the eventually winner had some powerful backing to secure his winning, including the leader of the “Pissed-off Chicken” (Yes, we changed the name in this article to protect the identity of all those involve).  After risking our life, the Whispers team managed to secure a note that was passed around between the slavers:

  “There is two options to vote: for Captain Dirty, who, I may call more "real" slaver between both candidates. And from other side we have Traitor woman, who is Monster Penis’  slave.  As leader of you, I will tell you about my choose : I won't see a slave leads the slavers ! I would vote for Captain Dirty!” Written by Wild Chicken (( Again, all the name are changed, to protect their identity and reputation ))

  Now, if you asked me, I would say it was a bit mean to pass a note like this around, since most of the slavers probably cannot read.  But, who can blame Wild Chicken, who himself has changed side to be his former woman to the Smelly Camels, only to see her buggered off to the slavers and tried to take over his former family?  And we best not talk about the whispers about certain affair that involved a Batman as well!

  Speaking of Batman, his election seemed to be a smooth sailing, right?  Well almost.  Despite what many believe, Batman’s election was probably the most competitive one at the end.  Some blamed it on the Batman’s focus on sex instead of leading his army.  Certainly that’s what Big Bad Wolf was implying.  BUT!  It wasn’t like BBW was all so clean himself.  From our source at the Slaver camp, we were told that there were a SECRET AGREEMENT between BBW and the Pancake Woman, that if they have won their respective election, they would break off the current alliance and form the all powerful UNDEAD SLAVER group!  Of course, neither of them win, so it’s really just a moot point.

  And what about the Bedouins?  At least they have the sense and voted the right leader this time around.  Certainly Lady Softie is a much better one to look at than the last leader, and we wouldn’t need an Bedouinian Interpreter everytime he tried to talk.  Adding her best friend Noodlehead into the mix, we can see nothing but good things that will be coming out of them now.   Though, one would wish that someone will tell Noodlehead to cut some of those wild crap hair that she has, or at least wash them a bit.  We could smell her from the Chronicles office quite soon.

This is enough for now, since the stingy editor doesn’t pay us nearly enough to write.  The Whispers team will be back again another day to bring you more hot hot hot gossips!

The Ireem Chronicles chanced upon a few of the leaders out and about already busy doing what leaders do, and cornered them(very politely) for a post-election thought,

"well firstly i would like to thank all of my family who supported me, on the one hand i am very delighted and excited to be Leader and I hope I can live up to everyone's expectations, but I'm sure if I dont, they will soon put me in my place. I am also delighted that my sister, Miriam Lemondrop has accepted to be my co-leader and it will hopefully make a refreshing change to have some estrogen making the decision for a change" ~Miss Velvet Hamelin, Bedouin Leader, standing proud in the sands, watching over her people.

"i'd like to thank all my people for believing in me..." ~Queen Indigo, Djinn Leader.  It was not easy to catch these precious words running alongside our powerful Queen and Elders in the midst of a battle!  Few words but to the point and most heartfelt, as we charged forth crushing the enemies' defence line.

Along the pathway towards the Chronicles office, it was a chance meeting with a little imp that brought us the following quote from the new Magi Leader who seemed rather jumpy, his eyes darting all over the room whilst talking to us, or he may just be intoxicated for the room did smell of rum...but forgive us on these speculations as he did sit hunched over at his desk very focused working like a mad scientist when the imp led us to his room, and we do know how the magi are with their experiments and spells..he said this in a bout of sanity,

"Very well. There is nothing extravagant in nature I can place at this very moment. I would just mention that..." His expression then suddenly changed as he smiled deviantly, "The Magi will torment those who show any opposition to our practices." And he stood there with his head bowed down as he chuckled darkly to himself.  Not long after that puzzling outburst, the Magi Leader suddenly goes from a look of paranoia to a pleasant smile, "I simply cannot divulge information pertaining to the practices of the Magi, but I assure you that there is nothing to fear." His eyes shifted around the room.. as if someone was watching him. He'd then chuckle and continued, "The Magi will continue our role in the protection of the Sultana and her kingdom." He says in a confident tone. Suddenly he seemed to be at a loss for words. He raised his hand to his chin and tapped it with his index finger "Hmm.. As for how I feel for winning the election..  " He had a bewildered look in his eyes."I feel... good I suppose." ~Azriel, Magi Leader.

It may be of interest to some, of a possible link between those of the Serpent Towers and the immortal powers in the Catacombs, since the little imp who hails Damien as her leader, also addressed the new Magi Leader as her Uncle Azriel.  This may come to naught or it may bring us some facinating developments in the sands.

We are ready to report the new adventures and historical moments these new leaders bring to Ireem, awaiting with interest and observing the chemistry brought about by the new leaders' styles combined, we quote the words of a wise man from the far far far far East..

The chronicles tonight had received a note in our drop box.  However, after our staff read it, we laughed so loud that we scared the office cat who then spilled some ink over parts of it.  But, in the spirit of good journalism that Ireem Chronicles is renowned for, we deiceded to print the parts that are not destroyed by the ink.  Also, a small prize will be granted to the person who can found out and name the author of this unrecognised note (All original writing mistakes included, see if that will help in identify the author):

"Salaam Chronicles and people of Ireem,
i nearly spilled my rum when i saw myelf being called a „traitor“ in the last chronicles article! ............That’s why i wish to state my reasons here for my group change..
I only got rude comments when i fell in love with a pirate, but can you blame me for trying to be with my beloved family and yet still with the one who owned my heart? ......... Even after he left his old family to be with me and showed loyalty to the Bedu they didnt stop their rude, respectless behaviour......... Besides that i got sliced up several times in my own camp with several bedus watching!! They didnt even try to draw a blade! Is that what you call family? All of them who didnt help are the true traitors, not me! The pirates saved my life several times, i owe them my respect and my blade on their side as well.........."

So small prize for identify the author of this note.  There should be plenty of clue there, including something mentioned about switch side when the pirates were kicking Beduoins' butts.  Although, being the partial observers that we are, The Chronicles will not be speculating whether the author will be switching to the winning side of the war again.

The Ireem Chronicles braved the war to bring you this interview with Sin, one of the final two candidates for Undead Leadership.  The beaded curtain of our office doorway rattled amidst the not too distant sounds of clashing blades, announcing his arrival.

Quickly setting aside the print materials in hand, and friendly greetings out of the way, I jumped right into the interview questions to efficiently utilise our precious time set aside during this chaotic war time.

The low rumble of Sin's voice emanates an aura of authority and mystique as he sits his warrior frame onto our rickety ancient, ahem I mean antique office chair, and very politely thank us for fitting the interview in our busy schedule.

"You are too kind, we are all very very busy, and I gather you must be busy too for there has been so many battles in the sands of late.  And Congratulations for being voted in as one of the two final candidates for Undead Leadership, Would you like to introduce yourself to those who don't know you so well?"

"Thank you again.." pausing to clear his throat. "Here most know me as Sin.  Though I am a rather new face in comparison, many have come to know me to be a man of action and results. I fight strongly for what I believe in and thrive in the face of adversity.." his words came quickly and with an air of confidence.

"Yes, yes your passion for wanting to lead your people is admirable, and yes...mmhmm.. your election opponent who is also the current leader, the formidable Damien Sack with many years of experience, what do you consider as your strength over him, and what made you come forward to run for Undead Leadership?"

At this juncture, the sounds of sword-fighting and battle-shouts could be heard very much clearer and nearer.  Nonetheless, Sin remained calm and answered with a smile, "I have not made the mistake of underestimating my opponent. He has many years of experience as you stated.. But as history has proven, those who have lead for too long lose touch with the common man. Finding themselves complacent in their day to day and not fighting for the prosperity of those who respect and serve.." a slight flicker in his eyes. "I have stood along side my brethren in times of war and times of celebration. Interweaving myself into their lives and ensuring not only their safety, but also helping them thrive. " adjusting himself a bit in the chair before continuing. "My strength is the bond I share with those I intend to lead into an evolution of our race and the fortunes it will bring along.."

Just outside the office, a barrage of gunfire sounded off as a female voice yelled 'Fireoff!!!'
I paused hesitating to pose the next question to Sin, a considerably newcomer in the political scene of Ireem, but leaned forward a little to look directly into his eyes to observe any inkling of irritation should it be sensitive to mention once again his opponent, his current Undead leader, and asked with a curious tone "How do you plan to deal with or win over the support of Damien's followers if you become the Undead Leader? How would you..describe your leadership style?"
Without hesitation he jumped right into his answer with a very stern tone. "As far as their support goes, I have fought for the respect and admiration of those who served alongside me. Nothing I claim has not been earned through extensive effort and my willingness to do what it takes to prove myself."

Rapping his fingers against the wooden table, he pondered for a moment before answering the second half of the question. "My leadership style? It can be summed up in a single word. A word you have heard me use a few times now.. Evolution. I will adapt to every situation and address each issue with the same respect and care as the last. A soft handed approach backed with my unwillingness to back down regarding something I believe in. I plan to push limitations and lead by example.. never asking anything of my people that I myself am not willing to endure."

Taking a deep breathe to calm myself what with the fighting noises just outside the office, my quill never stops etching onto the parchment all of Sin's words, I gestured to the plate of fresh beef slices and smiled "Help yourself to these snacks, I bought these for you thinking you might like refreshment what with the ongoing battles.." my eyes flits from the doorway and back to Sin.. " I sure hope the fighting remains out there..we have too many important documents in the office that must not be destroyed...and I'm not quite equipped to fight.."sighs..
He bellowed with a tone of certainty "Should anyone see fit to interrupt these proceedings, they will meet my blade...And if I may.. as a side note.. A good leader cannot be defined by his physical prowess. On the contrary a good leader is defined by the strength of character and what he believes in. A leader literally connotes to a ruler, but you must be wary because the line between the two can be easily crossed. A ruler demands his mob to follow him, often without their own livelyhood in mind. A leader shows the way and is willing to ensure none are left in the wake. In every walk of life, be it combat, interaction, office or family or country a good leader makes a difference and paves the way for success. A leader is the driving force which motivates and pumps positivity into the concerned group extracting the most from them albeit gently."

My heart almost skipped a beat writing down each and every word spoken with such intensity and passion, "Words of a great leader indeed!" looking up at him again from the papers held firmly down by the busy quill in hand "I do hope you don't mind me asking all these rather candid questions pertaining your election, we must get this article into the papers soonest possible. With the kind support of much donations from all citizens who appreciate our papers' timely reports ..we must work fast..If I may ask..at present, the strong ties between the Djinns and the Undeads is well-known, will this alliance continue if you become Undead Leader?"

"The Djinn and the Undead share a common bond unknown to most.. but without giving away too much..." he chuckled a bit looking to me once more with a warm smile and nodding reassuringly, "Yes, as long as their feeling stay the same, I will welcome them at my side and in my home as brothers and sisters.. "

Smiling back, and still mindful of the battles going on just outside but thankful our guest is well-skilled and seemed alert to fend off any attacks that may stray into the humble office " I am glad to hear that, very glad."
I paused to clear my throat before asking yet another rather sensitive question, "In a recent news report, the Pirate Slaver Eve made a comment and let me quote 'the cowardly four races alliance', she was referring to the Djinns, Undeads, Dark Knights and Merfolk, what is your response to that?"
"Eve wishes to play a game of numbers and figures.. yet I must ask the citizens of Ireem to consider the facts rather than the venom that Eve spits with each word.." a tinge of resentment in his words was clear. "After a recent change of tribes.. In which she moved to bolster her own numbers, she has moved to forge an alliance with not only the ones she turned her back on but now the palace itself has backed this war. If I may quote a pirate who shall stay unnamed.. 'It [The Bedu, Palace, Pirate alliance] is for all humans, to fight evil creatures,'" he paused a hint of anger welling in his eyes. "The arrogance and audacity of such a hateful ideals speaks volumes towards who Eve supports and her own thoughts on the world.. To make such claims towards all other races? Simply insulting."

I nodded quietly and then smiled to try defuse the tension "Ahh I see you are keeping an eye on this lady Eve's mischiefs.  Please do share your opinion, as Undead, what is your goals in Ireem? And what influences do you weave into the community of Ireem?"
"I have but one goal as leader of the Undead, the ensure the prosperity of my people. To make them a more integral part of the society that have all but been cast out of. To overcome the stereotypes and misinformed opinions of us. But above all the happiness of those who put me into such a position.." his words came like silk on air, as natural and honest as one could expect. "My influence will know no bounds.. For long have we lived alongside the citizens here.. Working with and against , depending on the situation, to build a harmonious union. At this time I do not wish to divulge all the details of my plans. But I will say.. that simply because we call shadow our home does not prevent us from coming into the light.." a mischievous smile was clearly taking shape over his dry lips.

"Excellent! You may be a new face but you are well-learned and very aware of all that is going on in the sands..I wish you success and would like to conclude this interview if you would sum up your campaign for your voters."
"With my campaign what I offer is simple.. A chance to evolve with changing times behind someone who has proven themselves and will continue to in the face of whatever adversity lies ahead.."

The snake which cannot cast its skin has to die. As well the minds which are prevented from changing their opinions; they cease to be mind.

I am not so naive as to be ignorant of the fact that my short time in Ireem has many unsure of how to judge my ability to lead. Nor can I claim that I am as well rooted here as some. But a fresh mind and fresh ideas are the weapons I wield in my quest to take reign over one of Ireem's most formidable groups.

Many know of my exploits both on the battlefield and in my steadfast defense of what I believe. Some have even spoke admirably of me at times. Whether or not they commend or loathe my actions and choices, I get results and am relentless in the pursuit of what I seek.

I wish to slowly bring about a wave of change that will forever shape the image of the Undead and those who choose to serve under me, I will not make empty promises or threaten those who do not wish to see me as their King. My offer is simple: Under my leadership, My only goal will be the success and prosperity of the Undead.

Sin

A RESPECTFUL AND LOVING FAREWELL TO A BELOVED  CITIZEN – POLO OLCHOWY
- Written by Pasha

It was a beautiful yet sad day in Ireem, as citizens from all persuasions set aside all rivalries to attend the memorial tribute to a beloved citizen of Ireem.

 Polo Olchowy was remembered by The Sultana Zanlu as Polo’s wife Misti stood nearby, “ When the palace was quiet he told me of his life, of his dreams .. what was his past and what he hoped for his future .... and so I discovered a great person .. with a great sense of duty, with full respect for the family and others .. a man who considered love the greatest gift of the Gods.  : He loved all the women .. He was sure that women, with their sweetness and sensibility and common sense, could be the masters of the world. He was very loved and I think he loved a lot .. I sometime teased him about that, but not too much, because he was very serious about "love. : Then... I do not know how and when .. he met the great love of his life, Misti.”

While all was silent except for some sniffles,  Sultana began to speak again, “He left his job as guard .. and for a while he travelled to other places .. but he loved very much our kingdom and its inhabitants and he came back.  I am sure that you all met him in the city, working in the bakery.  But not many days ago..he was called away from Someone that has more power than everyone else. Why ? I don't know, nobody knows. However,  I'm sure that now he is watching us …  so.. Dear Dr. Jekyll .. listen!”  At this time, Sultana lifted her eyes to the sky and with a sweeping motion around the courtyard she said, “Dear Polo ..do you remember this square? How many times have you walked here crossing the small streets of this little world ... ? From now...this Court has your name .. and I'm sure you enjoy it ... that you are proud ..but it is the minimum that we can do for a dear friend as you...Polo Olchowy !” And so, Sultana named the court, where Polo had his apartment nearby and where he once ran the Blue Lagoon Café, in his honor as he will never be forgotten.

Sultana then turned to the large crowd gathered there and asked if anyone would say a few words.   As she turned it over to the crowd, she whispered, “Profitez-en où vous êtes maintenant,Polo ! “

Without hesitation several citizens spoke up,  all wanting to share their fond memories of Polo.  When it was her turn, Britt shared her thoughts and a heartfelt recitation of prayers , “We all knew Polo and were very blessed to know him. He was a gentleman who, as the Sultana said, loved woman and loved life. He had a smile for everyone and he took the time to listen. I give you now two Irish prayers I believe speak of him."

All were attentive as Britt began to recite the prayers
 “If tears could build a stairway and memories were a lane
We would walk right up to heaven
And bring you back again.
No farewell words were spoken
No time to say goodbye
You were gone before we knew it
And only God knows why
Our hearts still ache in sadness and secret tears still flow
 What it meant to lose you
No one will ever know
But now we know you want us
To mourn for you no more
To remember all the happy times
Life still has much in store
Since you'll never be forgotten
We pledge to you today
A cherished place within our hearts
Is where you'll always stay
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 I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow;
I am the diamond glints on the snow
I am the sunlight that ripened grain;
I am the gentle autumns’s rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush,
Of quiet birds in circled flight
I am the soft star that shines at night
Do not stand at my grave and cry
I am not there;
I did not die for I am all around you and in your soul.”

In closing Britt said, “Go drift with the winds and know we love and think of you Polo. May the angels fold you within their wings and know that you look down upon us all ever more. Ireem’s Guardian.”

Seeing his opportunity to share, YaYoo reflected, “It is so beautiful to see us gathered to share our love of Polo & Misti - to share the comfort that we can - in our hearts - to reach to each other.  Love is so deep here - Polo & Misti have especially inspired me – have taught me through their loving - thank you”.  YaYoo then looked to the heavens and speaking directly to Polo, “I know in my heart you are here with us now.  Polo dear friend - I have so enjoyed seeing the deep love you & Misti are - - you have always inspired me -Ii have looked up to you - now I live next to the Blue Lagoon where you & Misti have welcomed me - many times - - So please come visit me too when you have some time - I welcome you always.”

Finally, Misti wiped the tears from her eyes and began to address everyone, “December 9, 2010....The day I met Polo he was a butterfly....I have always loved butterfly's and I promptly IM'd him asking where he bought the avi....never in my wildest dreams did I know that we would end up talking nonstop for 5 days straight..........and continued until April 3, 2012. Without a doubt I truly loved Polo more than life itself. He had a soft heart to those he loved. I could see that especially in real life. He always said "Be true to yourself" and I've tried hard to live by those words.”

Misti was truly overwhelmed when she thanked everyone, “Thank you all for being here. Thank you to those who are sharing a memory, a thought, a sentiment. Thank you to those who are quietly here, your presence is felt.”

As Polo and Misti’s friends began to leave, they left flowers in Polo’s Square as a remembrance while sharing some private condolences with Misti. 

As all of Ireem was saddened by Polo's passing,  it was our priviledge to attend this beautiful tribute to Polo .. a truly good person and friend to so many.

Polo and Misti