Earlier today, I received grievous news about the untimely death of the
player behind one of Achaea's best-known characters. You knew him, or
have likely at least heard of him, as Covenant Stormcrow, he who was the
Heart of the Forest for 100 in-game years.

Of the many heartwarming stories behind RL relationships first conceived
in Achaea, that of the players behind Covenant and Judiel Stormcrow
remains one of the greatest. Meeting first here in early 2000, the two
soon met in real life and wed, crossing countries to do so. In September
of 2001, they welcomed into the world their son. They would have
celebrated the 6th anniversary of their marriage this October.

The player behind Covenant mentored, guided, befriended, roleplayed
alongside, and otherwise touched the lives of many here for many years.
When I personally knew Covenant as a player, years ago, we more often
than not butted heads as leaders of adversarial factions. Oh, he was a
stubborn one (as am I!), but despite any past in-game differences, he
has my deep and everlasting respect as a person, and as one of the legends
of Achaea. He was a pillar of this community, a community that would not
be what it is today without him and others like him to nurture, shape,
and guide it.

Despite the fact that we ostensibly roleplay as characters other than
our true selves in Achaea, the relationships and the emotional and
psychological experiences that we create here often transcend simple
'play'. Even if we are never lucky enough to meet in person, we grow to
know each other, to respect and care for the minds and souls behind the
textual characters in a very real and profound way. I do not know much
of his life outside of Achaea so I cannot speak of it, but I am certain
he was as loved and respected there as he was here. We were truly blessed
to have known him and his integrity, his spirit, his heart.

I have pinned the current topic on Achaea's Forums about Covenant, on
which there is more information. Please feel free to leave your memories
and respects therein.

Love, support, and condolences from all of the Garden to the bereaved:
the player behind Judiel, the rest of Carl's family, and to all those
who knew him here. We share your sorrow. You are deep in our hearts.

Walk in shade, old crow.

Penned by my hand on the 22nd of Lupar, in the year 426 AF.