\--==Official Submission==-- FROM: General Debinani Rahl RE: A Briefing for Lord British A Letter to Lord British from His Most Faithful Servant My Liege- The history of The Black Rose Society is shrouded in mystery. They appeared quite literally out of nowhere a few years back. The Black Rose Society is a mercenary organization, though small in size, it claims to be well worth the cost. And The Society doesn't come cheap. Their representatives say they can handle any task, whether pacification, reconnaissance, or all-out war, they say that there's no job they can't do. Just jobs they won't do. It's members are all well-trained soldiers, hardened warriors with a flair for trickery and subterfuge. They're also rumored to contain at least a few tame wizards of some renown. Rumors. Rumors are all anyone has on The Society. It's members aren't talking. The Society is a close knit group, one could almost call it a family, and they recruit rarely and with great care. They don't seem to be interested in quantity as much as quality. Their number currently stand at just over a score, barely a company, but their track record with previous contracts is exquisite. Our spies have yet to uncover their training grounds, though we are fairly certain it is outside the confines of your Empire. With the aid of their wizards they range far and wide, taking care of small tasks all over the globe. I have uncovered information about their Captain that may interest you. You've actually met him once, several years ago during the Lich Wars when you went to our dearly- departed Sage Humboldt's study to ask one question or another. Young chap, dark hair and a scowl, I'm sure you remember him. Our reports aren't entirely clear, however it seems that for several months he would pay regular visits working on some sort of research project, though what project that could give Humboldt such a challenge is definitely a mystery worth solving. Overall, I would definitely say that The Black Rose Society could be a valuable asset under your auspicious rule, or a deadly enemy if they fall into the wrong hands. Reports have it that The Society is currently under no long- term contractual obligations, but we've heard rumors that Blackthorn as well as several of the miniature child- empires in the Northwest have taken an interest in their work...and more importantly, their availability. Personally, I'd say you should squash them while you still can, however I've never much cared for mercenaries. By Your Grace Soltain Greshnic Imperial Master of Assassins