To begin with, Ed, you’ve done a fantastic job and there is indeed no reason to feel guilty about the real life pressure. We are not computer nerds having a virtual thrill as a substitute for nonexistent RL experiences and that is one thing we love about Imperium. Of course, I share the hope that you would still continue to play actively.

I expressed my doubts in regard of having the umpire from outside when Fabio passed away. I have still very serious doubts that anyone who doesn’t want to play the actual game could possibly make a good leader to it.

Nevertheless, I think we have some reason for optimism here. I am not sure if Marlin is actually willing to take up this titanic task or was it offered as a kind of a sacrifice to keep the game alive. Anyway, if you in fact have the time and motivation you could become our saviour for the time being.

I have also spoken to Mark, who I agree would make an excellent umpire and who also has a desire to try it out, but wouldn't have the time to carry it out for at least another few months to come. However, to give Marlin some perspective of relief, he would certainly like to toss his hat in the ring if there were elections for year 184BC. And that would be just months away.

In regards of advertising for new players, I am all for it. It is the 10th year this game has kept going and it should be noteworthy to mention for any virtual reality. I am not afraid of new players who may loose their interest in few months, because they also may get captivated in few months if we are there to make it fun for them. If we grill them too long in the waiting list, their first motivation will be gone and they would just be poor players from the day one.

Lastly, I will try my best to be more active, it certainly was my intention on return. I know only well how lonely it may become when your posts get little reaction; you just loose the focus after a while. I for one have a RL fatigue, not Imperium fatigue. I have living this crazy travelling life for the last 10 years and have come to understanding that it is time for a change. I am considering a new position in Paris that would of course mean not only a new job, but also a new country, home, friends and certainly few more hectic months in Imperium.