Once upon a time, in the Shire of the Hatted Man, or so the Legends say, there was a hospital called the Metropolitan Hospital Center, on West 79th Street, in the land known in Mortal-tongue as New York City. On a certain July 26th afternoon, in the Mortal-year of 1965, the Eternals saw fit to plant into the lifeforces of Frederick Washington and Ola Mae Avery .... the seed of a Man --- a Man who, one day, would be blessed with the incredible gift of inspiring others to use their Imaginations wisely and responsibly!

That fellow was, needless to say, my Mortal-born alter ego, Master Richard .... who, among other things, also happens to be your humble Dragonmaster's business affairs manager, apprentice, fellow wacky person --- and, most importantly of all, my very, very best friend. As we are thus 48 remov'd from the lad's 44th natal day 'pon this glorious Earth, please allow me a few moments to pay this sometimes foolish youngster the proper tribute that is his rightful due.

Richard, like me, is somewhat scatterbrain'd, that much is worth admitting, but he alone will sacrifie all, now matter how big or small, for a friend, be he or she one that dwelleth within or beyond the realms of cyberspace. He has journeyed through the net since the mid- to late 1990's, discovering a great many friend in the process, both online and in person. He will, I think, remain ever grateful for the kindness shown him by those who dare to do so fearlessly. But there are those who have in the past felt his wrath whenever he has been wrong'd --- and I have seen what the lad can do when one dares to mess with him. He is not one to deal with when one makes him angry, that much is certain.

But Richard Washington, ultimately, is a fellow with a noble heart who, despite his odd faculties, does his level best to be .... well, good. And in that respect, this old Wizard would toast the lad wholeheartedly. Methinks it wuld be a pleasing thing if most of ye hither might dain to do likewise.

Bottom line, kiddos: this Saturday marks Master Richard's birthday. I trust my RenSpace colleagues will celebrate accordingly. Huzzah!

Master Blackwolf