Kandarin's Last Will and Testament

[Badgersloveyouto]

Best of luck Kandarin. the folks at NWO are going to miss you

[Tim-Opolis]

Good Bye Kandarin . We will miss you and always applaud what youve done.
Good like in the real life.

Tim-Opolis
Co-Leader of NWO

[Glen-Rhodes]

One more Issue Editor down.

[TNFO Recruiter]

It has now been more than seven years since I started playing Nationstates, and I am happy to say that the game and its people have been a delightful companion through good times and bad. NS and NSers have taught me many things and given me a new perspective on many things, and the game has given me a lifelong love of writing, good fiction, society and politics that would no doubt have otherwise passed me over.

Nevertheless, it is time for me to pack up my things and go. I have recently entered a new phase in my life in which I will be deeply involved with something I have hoped and dreamed and worked very hard for years for a chance to pursue. However, it leaves me with little time for the internet and has required me to seriously re-weigh many of my priorities in life. I am no longer actually able to be as involved so very deeply in NS as I once was, and I have realized that that depth of involvement that it allowed was one of the key things that kept me in the game for so very long. I do not do things by half-measures; I am either here in full or not here, and I am no longer able to be here in full.

I realize that my absence will leave a large hole in a great many places. Therefore, for the benefit of future NS generations I wish to ensure that my legacy is one that will build up the game and its communities. Though possessions cannot be had here per se, in my time here I have amassed many roles, offices, and honors. They are not mine to keep, and so it is my wish to pass them on in such a way as they ought, that they would go to those who will use them well. So without further ado, I dedicate an apportionment of such goods as I believe best reflects my will, as it were.

To Naivetry, who has been without exception wise, patient, honorable and gracious, I leave the position that most associate with me: the Delegacy of the Rejected Realms. There have always been many people who have sought to lead the region for what they thought it was, but there have only ever been a few who have the attributes truly needed to lead it for what it really is. You have spent years showing me that you do much what I do in NS, with the difference that you're better at it. May your intelligence and integrity serve you well.

I call upon all those in the interregional community who have respected me as Delegate to respect Naivetry as Delegate in turn, and to assist her in actually attaining and holding the position. I offer her such assistance as I can give.

To Barbara Manatee, esteemed ambassador of Ulthar, I leave my position as Viceroy of the East Pacific, as well as an up-to-date log of citizens. This was done a while ago, and you have already proven to be a better Viceroy and leader in TEP than I ever was. I would also offer an Official TEP Viceroy Whip, but you are already in possession of the best bureaucratic whip in the world.

To Der Fuhrer Dyszel, possessor of the best mind, biggest heart and sharpest wit in NS all in equal measure, I leave my position as admin in the East Pacific. You have never hesitated to address a problem once you have seen it, and now there is one less hoop that you will have to jump through to do so.

I also leave to you my characters, Anna Alexander and Prospero Albaniri, for you know them so very well that you know what they will do next. May their adventures (and/or demises) in the salvation (and/or damnation) of Damon Diehl and Mahanoy be glorious.

In addition, I leave a Condemnation of your super-duper-evil main nation, or at least another attempt to pass one that shouldn't get bloc-ed this time.

To Nation of Quebec, leader of Capitalist Paradise and writer of issues, I leave my recommendation to the admins that you ought to replace me as Issues Editor, if you are willing to do it. Your issue submissions on the forum and in the game have always been exceptional, needing very few changes - exactly what is needed for an issue editor - and an enthusiasm for issues that far surpasses my own.

I'd ask this by telegram, but I can't get through for some reason (I think I epically failed to research CP's policy on WA campaigning a while back). If someone could pass a link to this on to Nation of Quebec for his approval/disapproval I would be grateful.

To Dannistaan, I leave my assurance that all of us have always seen you as having great experience and objectivity, and as such I leave my recommendation to replace me as Arbiter in the East Pacific if you wish it. Your imagination, neutrality in political spats, and great humility will make you a good pick for the job, and I ask that you consider it.

To Warr, I leave a small island to the north of you full of powerful magic that brings dead things back to life. I'm sure you'll think of something clever to have its inhabitants do.

To Drakkengard, I leave my thanks for unfailingly handling the East Pacific's WA affairs. I also leave a cloud of magical fallout that will turn your nation into a land of beautiful dreams and terrible nightmares, and a word of advice to keep an eye on your issues for something extra special that will make you smile.

To Reziel, I leave the burden of figuring out just what Tambora, the Great Fiend of Fire, is up to now that she's awake, and that of figuring out just what was at the bottom of that black lake in Malev. I also leave a request for some contact information - I may actually have a chance to visit you in the not-too-distant future.

To Kangarawa, who basically wrote this character anyhow, I leave Rachel Penteleimon, mystic visionary, lady of letters, and scary religious zealot who makes Torquemada look like Little Miss Sunshine, as well as Honist, her House of wacky bioengineers. This may put you at odds with Reziel, see above. I am sure that you will enjoy the process of being at odds immensely.

To Free Pacific States, I leave the besieged state of Xiopothos, the shadowy weapons programme going on within, and the fleet besieging it, as well as said fleet's commander Vire Khaz and his House Damis. This may put you at odds with Reziel, Kangarawa and DFD, who have his lost masters, his ally/nemesis, and his daughter respectively.

To Packilvania, I leave the question of what Noi's next move will do to Lady Lucille Haskalah, her departing space fleet, and her House Chiron, and my blessing to make it something with a great big bang. Should they survive, they are yours to play, but I think we both know which outcome is more entertaining.

To Northrop-Grumman, RPer extraordinaire and good friend, I leave my puppets, Mohammastan and Liberaltopia. I'd like to see them passed out to whichever new RPer can best demonstrate that they would play a non-stereotypical Islamic state and a non-stereotypical libertarian haven and would do so even better with an Antiquity nation, but figure it out as you like or use them for your own ends.

To whoever in the East Pacific has the willingness and means, which is to say the capacity to process DWG files and the willingness to make updates, I leave the management of the East Pacific map. If no one wants to do this, I quite understand.

To whoever is in the Delegate seat of the West Pacific in six months, I leave the foundership of the region of Wales. Long may its colors wave. Whamabama of Equilism is to act as the executor of this particular part of my estate; whoever is able to claim this bequest should contact him.

To Darkesia, I leave some chocolate, to be delivered when you least expect it. Unless you don't still live where you used to, in which case I shall feel very silly.

To TAO, I offer my condolences on your departure, which I feel that I finally understand, and my suggestion that you hook up with what Naivetry will be doing when you get back.

To the mods and admins, I leave a couple of very good recommendations for a new mod, although I rather suspect one of them will be booked solid very soon. I'd encourage you to look at the other, who although I was feeling a little sketchy about him at the time I wrote it, would make a very good mod indeed.

To the rest of NS, I leave three new issues that should be up soon, plus a fourth to be delivered before I'm out. Keep an eye out for them!

Thank you for your help, your companionship and your quirky senses of humor all along, and I hope to keep in touch with many of you in the future.

Kandarin

You were a greaat delegate. One of the best!Or should I say THE best

[A mean old man]

One more Issue Editor down.

You're a dying breed!

Hmm. I wonder if I could fill that post...?

[Afforess]

Good Luck in your future endeavorers, Kandarin.

[Pyshoria]

Well, despite the fact that I've not thought too highly of you throughout my NS career, good luck. There may be times when you'll need it.

[Demphor]

I shall personally miss you and youre greatness, The Mega Region gives you full Military Honors, thanks for the momories, for NS has lost one of its greatest.

King James Dormor the 2nd, government Leader of Demphor and leader of The Mega Region, god be with you.

[New high charity 24]

nothing to me, any who Nation states will never be the same, we bid ye the fairest of travels and may God watch your steps!

[New high charity 24]

We give him the 21 gun salute if he leaves right guys?

[Arathi Basin]

Best of luck in your travels. You have done a great many things for NS.

[Demphor]

We give him the 21 gun salute if he leaves right guys?

Yes we give him one, but our region is giving him a 100 gun salute.

We also will miss you, once again, farwell

[Good Housekeeping]

I was just dropping in to appreciate your huge (and well deserved) recognition of Der Fuhrer Dyszel -- to then read of your passing beyond the NS world.

All the best to you. I will still be remarking that certain nations had earned a free trip to Kandarinland even in your absence.

*Bestows Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval onto Kandarin*

[Joshuahood]

*Sighs*

Goodbye Kandarin. As Unibot said, I come back one day and see another person going/gone. You will be missed.

In my opinion, you deserve something like a member of honor status for your service.

Best of luck,

-Joshuahood

[A mean old man]

In my opinion, you deserve something like a member of honor status for your service.

WASC commendation counts for something, perhaps.

[Unibotian WA Mission]

In my opinion, you deserve something like a member of honor status for your service.

WASC commendation counts for something, perhaps.

Would a double commendation be too much?

[A mean old man]

WASC commendation counts for something, perhaps.

Would be a double commendation be too much?

I was thinking the same thing.

[BrightonBurg]

Fare well bro.

You will be missed,pop in for a hello once and a while to make sure you have not been eaten by jackels or something..

[Goobergunchia]

/me salutes.

Kandarin, you're somebody I've always looked up to and respected in this game. It'll be a lesser place without you. Best wishes to whatever your plans are in real life, although I'm sure you won't need my sentiments to succeed.

[Thought transference]

I reckon we should hold an NS wide annual memorial BBQ for Kandy (On top of TRR's usual BBQ's) to remember him by....

I"m all for this idea.


Kandarin, we never really got to know each other; that was my fault. I suspect we could have been friends if I'd been more willing to take the risk of getting involved. But I've watched you at work for a long time now with growing respect, appreciation and admiration. You're one of the real Good Guys of Nationstates, and even among that elite company, IMO you're up at the top. You're one of the people who've made NS a good place to be and your influence will be missed, but I suspect that you've had enough of an effect on the rest of us that you've left behind a legacy of intelligence, courtesy, respect, good judgement, good humour and fair play. One way or another, we'll all be doing our best to live up to your example.

Personally, I'm sorry that RL has summoned you away and it's obvious that I won't be the only person to miss your presence in TRR and other regions, and throughout NS. Our loss in Nationstates is Real Life's gain. Whatever it is that's claiming your dedication and focus must be something very special, and although we all might be envious of RL we cannot begrudge it! :-) It's tempting to say you should stay on in NS part-time, but I understand what you mean when you say you don't do things by halves; mediocrity is just a kind of death and I think we all know you aren't inclined towards mediocrity.

I want to end by wishing you the very best of everything in Real Life. Of course if you decided to return for a visit, there are red carpets here and there that would find their way to being unrolled for your welcome.

[Crazy girl]

Kandarin.

I am disappointed that there is not a single mention of the RRA in your farewell post. No recognition of all those valiant soldiers who have bravely defended your delegacy. No salute for us who worked hard to show the Rejected Realms was more than just a sinker but also home to an army of brave defenders. I am dismayed by this utter lack of respect to those who worked by your side to make the RR and the RRA back in the days. Gres, Siggi, Greymarshes, Black Dreams, Geomania and myself (and many others I have not mentioned here but who I will remember and respect until the end of days)

For the memory of my RRA superiors and my soldiers, I will NOT accept Naivetry (who I respect as an ally and defender) as the new delegate of the RR, and I will switch my WA membership to my main nation and run for delegate myself to keep outsiders from taking over.

[Darkesia]

*chuckles*

Leave it to CG to turn TRR into a free4all (pun intended).

In this you may find Kandarin's reasoning.

[Kandarin]

Kandarin.

I am disappointed that there is not a single mention of the RRA in your farewell post. No recognition of all those valiant soldiers who have bravely defended your delegacy. No salute for us who worked hard to show the Rejected Realms was more than just a sinker but also home to an army of brave defenders. I am dismayed by this utter lack of respect to those who worked by your side to make the RR and the RRA back in the days. Gres, Siggi, Greymarshes, Black Dreams, Geomania and myself (and many others I have not mentioned here but who I will remember and respect until the end of days)

For the memory of my RRA superiors and my soldiers, I will NOT accept Naivetry (who I respect as an ally and defender) as the new delegate of the RR, and I will switch my WA membership to my main nation and run for delegate myself to keep outsiders from taking over.

What the RRA was defending was never just my delegacy. If they were, it all would have been very pointless, because we all knew that this day was going to come. The RRA was fighting for something more. The RRA was fighting for honor, for a Rejected Realms that was more than just a disposal to put unwanted nations, that was something that its residents could be proud of. The RRA was also fighting for what they believed in, fighting for the real right of people to live their lives and enjoy their game in peace. We weren't always perfect at it, and it brought us some strange bedfellows sometimes, but it was never any political calculation or alliance obligation that made us do it. We did it because, having really considered it (and even having tried doing things the Other Way) we found that it was right. The RRA really, truly fought for the freedom of players to make their own choices and have fun, for the right of people to have leaders who care for them, and for the freedom of all people to be considered for their own worth and deeds regardless of their place in any hierarchy. Consider these things, and you will find the legacy of the RRA in each and every one of my bequests.

What those bequests are, however, is not a mark of people's standing with me. There are many people to whom I wish I could give more, and far more to whom I wish I could give something. There are some people with whom I have trouble seeing eye to eye who nonetheless got something because I know they'll do the most and best with it. It's not about the past, and if I were to name everyone in the game to whom I owe great thanks, I'd run out page before I ran out of names. It's about what can be given to the future. Every single bequest is giving something to someone who I know will actively, meaningfully use something of mine for the good of their community and NS. The RRA isn't listed as a bequest, or the recipient of one, simply because I sadly have no RRA to leave nor a RRA to leave anything to. I can't put the RRA on a list of people and things for whom I am trying to give tools to use in the future, because it isn't in my power to do so.

In any case, the handoff to Naivetry won't be done by her coming in to swap for endorsements. It will be done by simply giving her this nation. That is the sort of confidence that I place in her, that she will and does live up to the standards of the RR and will help build it up. I invite you to come along - I am sure that you could contribute your passions and skills to help her make the RR the lively, beautiful, defender (whether it fields troops or not, that is what it is) region that it was and deserves to be again. In the end, it is your choice. But the RR deserves more than a leader who will do anything less. It's that realization that I cannot offer it what it needs that leads me to resign. Consider whether you can before seeking the position.

Kandarin

[Naivetry]

Hey there, CG.

You do have a point, of course. You and others have put more time into TRR than I have; you made it what it is before I was even playing.

That discrepancy has been the biggest worry on my mind since Kandarin posted this. Like many of us in the military side of things, I've lurked in TRR for years endorsing Kandy in between missions, but I haven't really been a part of what you all had built there. Your accusation that I'm an "outsider" stings because it's true.

That's why - I was planning on starting tonight, but I was pointed here first - my first priority has been telegramming everyone in TRR to see what you and they want to have happen from here, and to ask for your support and your ideas. Because I don't want to be an outsider. An outsider taking the delegacy without native support is just an invader; I know that as well as anyone.

And so I understand your reaction; it's one I would share if our positions were reversed and we were talking about Equilism. There's a resentment that some total stranger is going to come in and inherit what you built. There's a fear that the core and identity of the region will be lost in the hands of someone who doesn't know it well enough to respect its history and traditions.

So if you want the delegacy to protect TRR, I understand. If you want it because it's yours - your home by virtue of the time you've spent and the love you've poured into it - know that that is not something I can take away and it's not something I want to change. I'm asking for a chance to prove that to you - to work with you, not against you.

In the end, The Rejected Realms needs a whole community behind it, not just a choice between individuals. I'm willing to be there for the long haul: to do all the telegramming, endo-swapping, WA debate and voting, RMB banter... all the in-game grunt work, socializing and politicking that goes into a delegacy. I'm willing to pick things up where Kandarin leaves off, and my deepest hope in doing so is to carry on his legacy as seamlessly as possible - and at the same time, to offer a new beginning. But I don't want to - can't, in fact - do it alone.

Will you stay and help protect and rebuild the region you've put so much of yourself into? I need your help, and the help of everyone who cares for TRR, if this is going to have a chance at success - at preserving everything you've made The Rejected Realms to be, while creating for it something new.

Know that I don't and won't take it personally, whatever you decide. You're still the awesomest, not to mention the most intimidating, old school defender I know. If you want to chat more privately, you know how to reach me; I felt I needed to respond in public first. But I'll be in touch.

Yours always,
~Nai <><

[A mean old man]

Nai, you going to change Kandy's flag (and possibly national settings) to your own once the transaction is complete? I can see a lot of confusion following the nation switch if people are mistaking the "new" player behind the nation for the old one.