Talk:News and Rumors

July 2020

Week Four (RPCSS Turn 8)

Abraxes in Andus: A Sign of Divinity

After the fall of the slaver regime in al-Shadiya, the remnants of those defeated escaped into the deep desert to raid and bide their time. Through a vision received both by Maeve, Regent of Emlyn, and Qheela, Priestess of Andus, it became apparent that Abraxes would attempt to utilize these remnants to attack al-Shadiya in a bid to topple the new Vizier and develop a foothold in Cuiviénen.

Through the brave acts of heroes and the troops of Andus, the mixed army of raiders, slavers, and crystal abominations were thrown back after two separate and intense fights on the bridges to the west. Qheela lead the defense and rallied the heroes and soldiers onward into the desert to root out nests of crystalline horrors. While this band fought bravely, it was tracked by Abraxes, circling in the sky. The paladin Lara Ox was seen to accept custody of the crystal shards found at three separate camps, and secreted them away.

As the last camp fell, the dragon Abraxes encircled the heroes and prepared to wipe them out in retaliation. But before this could be completed, a vision of gods appeared in the desert! A man wearing read, wreathed in power, and a woman perfect purity stood on top of a mountain beside the city of al-Shadiya. They were seen to raise their hands and conjure a great sandstorm that drove off Abraxes and saved the heroes. This is the first great display of power by the Gods of Cuiviénen, will more follow?

Concerning the child in Cuige Uster

Last night our heroes found the body of a young girl who had been missing from the Cuige Ulster district in Evervale. Like the girl from Emlyn, this girl was found just inside the entrance to Underhill, in a shallow pool in the forward cave. The leadership of the borough took possession of the body, performed an autopsy and arranged a closed casket pyre on the folkmoot attended by all of the locals. Suspicion still follows the traveler Aianna as it is rumored she "found" the body. Autopsy results are expected to be given to both the Grey Rider and Queen Maeve of Emlyn later today.

Warding the Great Hall of Karrendal

Brea is said to have slept the entire afternoon, awakening only when the sounds of the city's children returning in droves to the long hall. She called for a young Svartalmane who has been in her company non stop since his arrival a week ago, lovers? friends? she has not seen fit to explain his situation to anyone. She is dressed in only the thinnest of robes as the hall is warm in the summer with hundreds of children, guards, and parents inside. She walks the outer edges of the hall from the lowest level to the highest peak. She moves slowly, praying and chanting. Whatever it is she is singing is familiar to all of those in the hall, for every child raises their voice along with her, the words sound Alvdalen. The Svartalmane walks by her side, holding her upright as she touches more than 80 bindrunes carved on the posts and beams of the hall. When she is done, nearly retching in exhaustion and her companion looking little better off, the doors of the hall are closed and barred.

Varðmaðr

Candlelight flickers in the upper floor of Andalstad's smithy, as a lone figure sits upon a balcony overlooking the street to the the great Long House. There is much speculation as to why Jarl Dokharr is here. Does he sit in vigil for the return of his Queen? Or does he watch over Brea's seat of power, defending it in her absence? What is known, he rarely leaves only on short trips to collect supplies, or to walk the perimeter of the great house.

An Interrogation Gone Wrong

Following the successful defense of Emlyn, Maeve and Lara agree to the reanimation of the witch of Abraxes in order to interrogate her. To power the ritual, Jadan of Brekka and Aianna Mhuir were tasked with a delicate job to help empower the ritual. Jadan is rumored to have approached it with some hesitancy while Aianna accomplished with gusto.

However, unknown to our heroes, the crystals recovered from Raeyithia and housed beneath Emlyn in the catacombs, were close by and the ward around them failing. As the magic of the ritual commenced and the interrogation proceeded, it was clear that both the witch and a darker voice spoke through the same person, responding concurrently. Little information was gleaned save that the crystals were precious to Abraxes for reasons the witched guessed as a "Fear of forgetting himself."

Soon after this information was gleamed, the ritual took a dark turn. Just as the ritual was completed, the power of the magics caused the warding of the crystals to fail, and they bobbed up to the surface of a pool where they had been stored, close to where the ritual took place. These crystals dissolved and disappeared, perhaps spent to fuel what came next. The witch in the center of the ritual blew up in a fiery display of hostile magic, severely injuring Brea and Maeve in the process. The witch was burned to a crisp and the ritual ended.

Abraxes Attacks Emlyn

What began as a mysterious storm that settled over the city quickly grew into a fight for survival for the defenders of Caerleon. The Regent, Maeve, marshaled the defense and repealed three separate attacks that originated from the sky. First, the west of the city was hit by a large ball of fire and invading enemies, then the southeast of the city. Fires were contained before any permanent damage was done. After these attempts, a powerful force of attempted to march down the center of the city and take down the defenders and the castle, but were repealed when Maeve ordered a counter attack by the knights of Emlyn.

Soon after the bonfire summoned the players to itself and warned of an intruder below the city. After scrying and other methods to locate what turned out to be a witch of Abraxes, the defenders quickly captured her. The catacombs were warded to defend against such intrusion and the witch was seen to be confused and lost below the city. After a successful suicide attempted, Lara OX was seen to bind the spirit to the body and a group of mages brought in to sustain the binding until a later time.

Brighwell and Essendal

Rumors of a raid on a minor noble family has been reported. The manor house is on the borders between Essendell and Brighwell. The raiders were said to have moved in quickly, giving the family little warning. The lord attempted to flee at the last moment, but the raiders were able to overtake them, and both the family, its retainers and their gold was captured. No one knows the fate of the family, and the raiders were seen heading off to the west. Is the family with them? Sent to the slave markets? Dishonored and killed on route? (Estate owners may contact Ovadya/Ethan in discord if you want to respond to this action.)

Week Three (RPCSS Turn 7)

From Brea

A politely worded notice will be delivered by messenger to each Estate Owner.

Dear Sir/Madam

We have, hopefully, reached a general accord as to what the reach of one lord's area of rightful law and obligation is -- those hexacres directly under their control. We have acknowledged any lord's right to enter into treaty with another to modify or expand upon that simple premise. We have agreed that it is a lord's right to determine and enforce the laws in their own lands. In short, we have made a great deal of progress. I applaud each of you for your part in these discussions.

There will be, I am sure, many more points that will come under consideration, but one I think must be addressed sooner rather than later. What if someone commits a crime within your borders but then flees to another's lands? What then is to be done or what if anything can we expect? We each come from a wide variety of worlds and a plethora of legal systems. Enclosed, you will find an introduction to one solution, the concept of wergeld. It is a simple concept and it is my hopes that it will serve as a possible solution -- easy to implement and with reduced need for courts and arbitrators.

I look forward to discussing this, or other proposals, at our regular gathering, mid-week.

Yours in service,
Brea Wynne Wistari
Queen of Midvegr

On the transitions in Emlyn

Three times in fewer months, the leadership of Emlyn has been thrown to a new regent, the stalwart Maeve Ennis, tender of the Hearth Home. Rumors abound of the unstable nature of the former Regent, Aradel Loren, who stepped down mysteriously after appearing in poor health. The knights and councilors, as well as the active estate holders, hold Maeve in high regard and look to support her in the face off with Emlyn's enemies. Soon after Aradel stepped down, Maeve granted Carigsay to him as custodian, though few have seen him outside the estate's bounds.

Tarafeyn Erects a Grove around Princess Leilani

Stones were being blessed and consecrated in the name of Druantia and Herne, building pillars representing the eight holy days in the year. Lilitu was seen praying, warding each pillar in clockwise fashion around the grove protecting her daughter Leilani. With the presence of the mystical stones in place, Princess Leilani had shown a swift growth spurt within the last week and almost over night as candles were brought by villagers to honor the young dryad princess.

Gossip is spreading with mirth as many who have come to bring gifts say they have heard gentle cooing and sometimes crying of an infant on the rustling leaves around the young tree.

Week Two (RPCSS Turn 6)

Turmoil in Andus

There appear to be two versions of this news spreading. The first is:

Decades, no, centuries, of oppression in Andus have been brought to an end! A coordinated uprising, spearheaded by slave-gladiators and a band of escaped slaves, swept through Al Shadiya this week. The heroes fought their way through the city, freeing slaves and bonded servants as they went. Slave masters and traders were executed for their crimes against the people, and any buildings that supported their hateful practices were destroyed. The Liberators were aided by warriors and benefactors from several other kingdoms, who will be honored by having their names etched on a stone displayed proudly above the throne of Andus. The uprising's leader, Tyrseus, has been ordained as Vizier of Andus with the approval of the people. May he rule with a fairer and more compassionate hand than the former "masters" of the city.

The second version is:

The feelings of uneasiness and unrest in Al Shadiya finally exploded into violence this week. "Discontented" slaves, probably spurred on by Al Shadiya's enemies, rose up in a bloody attack against the city's upstanding citizens. Innocent people all over the city were brutally murdered, and this beautiful jewel of a city was left bloodstained, ransacked, and burned. The mob's leader, a great brute of a minotaur, took the golden throne by force and now styles himself "Vizier". Those of us who escaped the city fear to return while the Usurper continues to terrorize our once-beautiful home.

Princess of Tarafeyn, Leilani! "Welcome to the World!"

A great hunt left Tarafeyn in bulk of venison and rabbit meat. Offering opportunity to host a giant feast inviting other kingdoms to join in the feast. Aianna the Brave helped usher in the peasants to the food line behind the stew bubbling with potatoes and sweet carrots feeding the hungry.

Cora Silverleaf entertained the villagers as they all broke bread, celebrating the season of the honey bee. She was seen doing acrobatic flips in the air flipping and twirling with ribbons about her, even gifting some of the colorful ribbons to patrons for good luck!

Amidst the feast, the Guardian had reported having contractions through out the morning, she actually gave birth with the aid of the midwife Aianna, and the encouragement of Cora, both making sure she was safe with the holy men and woman around the consecrated grounds before running off to share the details with those left at the feast.

Good News travels fast, as all come to see the new sapling being guarded at the hallowed grounds near the temple in Tarafeyn. It is said the Guardian has not left the saplings side as she wait's for her daughter the princess Leilani to emerge from her anchor in this world.

Week One (RPCSS Turn 5)

A Question of Law

At the fairgrounds there gathered a number of landed Lords and four of the five kingdom rulers to discuss just how far one's rule and law extended. The debate hinged between only as far as ones occupied hexacres or until its border met another's. There was no agreement reached but the topics ranged; who has jurisdiction if a crime is committed? Who is responsible if visitors are harmed within one's borders? Who has a claim on unoccupied estates? Some claim that might makes right and only the fittest survive. Others that we have a responsibility to all the people and lawlessness benefits no one.

As then gathering ended, a compromise was proposed for discussion and consideration. It is rumored that another discussion will be hosted this evening.

Celebration at the Tarafeyn Vineyard

This Saturday was enjoyed at the Vineyard giving dessert samples out to the villagers and party goers coming to try the new sweet wines and dessert meads. It was a quiet affair and the Guardian spent time with the Hearth Mother of Emlyn enjoying a calm evening.

June 2020

Week Five (RPCSS Turn 4)

Brighwell

A curious orange glow was spotted illuminating the night sky, the dark clouds of the night being bathed in this peculiar light throughout the entire evening! The light, presumably coming from a fire in the Brighwell area, was accompanied by rolling black clouds giving prudence to the fire theory. A company of Emlish soldiers and militiamen were seen heading that way earlier in the day, reportedly to deal with the infestation of trolls and despots that had overrun the destitute keep. It cannot yet be determined if the assumed burning of Brighwell was intentional or not! The Emlish soldiers will certainly have to make amends for what damages they have wrought to the area if found to be true.

Shad'ahan

The ruler of Andus, who sits in the Palace of Shad'ahan mysteriously disappeared from the palace. Her attendants and guards have been very hush-hush on what has happened and no real news is available. It is reported that the other estate owners have been gathering to discuss what is to be done if the Queen does not return in a timely manner.

Midrvegr Summer solstice

On the 28th of June Queen Brea Wynne Wistari held a great feast in Midrvegr. All who attended where seen leaving her hall with less clothing then they arrived in or very merry. But they had reason to Celebrate, sacrifice was provided by Gallad the last knight of the Thorn king. He was hung at the tree and many where given the opportunity to place a spear into his body. The fist being Lady Victoria Rose who made sure he felt every inch of the wood in his body.

The Second being a lone Searess who had gained Brea's permission to use his blood to gain a chance to see into the future.These reading have been kept private to those who must know what lays ahead. Seeing as for now the threat has fallen celebration was indeed called for and the great feast hall was over run with joyous crowds. Making the Midrvegr Solstice ritual something to talk about for a long time to come.

Unease at Meissa

Visitors to the Great Library of Andus have noticed a much larger military presence in the Meissa region. Ordinarily protected by a small contingent of guards, which are largely ceremonial, the Library and surrounding region now have several camps of armed militia cropping up. Citing several threats against the Library and her own person, the Library's Headmistress has recruited local fighting men to help protect the world's greatest storehouse of knowledge. The Headmistress herself is rarely seen nowadays.

Week Four (RPCSS Turn 3)

Carigsay

The populace of Carigsay seems on edge this week, as news reached them from Tarasinau of their lord falling in battle, receiving grievous injury at the hands of the false prophet, Gallad Farseer. While Lord Taelarys' survival was not immediately assured, the care he received at the hands of Guardian Lilitu and Emlyn's own hearthmistress, Maeve Ellis, allowed a speedy recovery. Some are even murmuring that his draconic heritage helped speed his healing along, though this remains unconfirmed.

As such, Carigsay officially sent word denouncing the actions of Farseer, and supporting Midrvegr's imprisonment and subsequent execution of the man. While the city remains a monument to Cernunnos, officials state that all faiths are welcome, provided they do no harm to others in their practice.

Tarafeyn

The capital is a buzz as summer swells in heat with balmy breezes in the capital of Raeyithia, Tarasinau. Festivals have been on going the last three days in Tarfeyn in honor of the return of the Hearth Mother, Elliana. She was gone missing - later to be understood - kidnapped by the Unholy Knight Gallad, Preacher of the Thorn King.

It has been a subtle detail for quite some time that the Guardian Lilitu was germinating a seed, but on the eve of Solstice it is said there was a sudden growth spurt, and Lilitu looks about ready to bare her child. Preparations are being made by the temple and holy grounds where weeks ago one of the Great Trees of Tarafeyn died, poisoned by enchantment. Midwives and Priestess have been smudging the area with burning sage, sprinkling salt over the consecrated ground as a barrier to ward off evil.

Week Three (RPCSS Turn 2)

Meeting of the Council of Emlyn

A public meeting of the council of Emlyn was convened on order of the King, Cynric Degenhard. Cynric was not in attendance however, and his councilor Aradel, a long standing Aelfeyn advisor under both Damien and Nyre, sat in the Regent's chair. After convening the council, Aradel shared with the estate holders and public that Cynric Degenhard had left earlier that day on a quest for a mysterious object of unknown purpose or power. With relatively little warning, Aradel was asked to convene the council and elect a regent. With only three voting members of the council left, Taelarys, Maeve and Aradel elected Aradel as the succeeding regent.

The discussion soon moved to the rumors of war emanating from Midrvegr. The council unanimously agreed to withstand the brunt of any assault by Brea's forces and to stand as mighty bulwark should war be brought to their lands. Aradel could be heard defending Brea's virtue despite her hawkish tendencies, to the shock of some attendees.

Tarasinau

Word of mouth spread quickly of Raeyithia's first royal assembly in court. Many gathered, even from other kingdoms, to hear what the Guardian Lilitu had to say. Calling the Hearth Mother, Elliana, to her side as close council, she explained to those gathered of a terrible enchantment, a pestilence upon the Great Trees of Tarasinau and possibly further. Broken shards of dark crystals were found at the base of each afflicted tree, among roots so twisted and black that the very trunks were rotting away.

After informing those present of the recent tragedy, Lilitu made a plea to those gathered for aid, knowing that this was beyond her own means to remedy. The Heroes were quick to lend their aid, setting out to purge the blighted trees on the outskirts of Tarasinau. Serving as guardians to each tree, swarms of corrupted fairy dragons attacked any who drew near, but were similarly dispatched with fire and steel.

But this was not the last to be heard of the fairy dragons, for not a day later word spread of a messenger arriving in Tarasinau. Upon his arrival, he sought the Guardian and Hearth Mother, explaining to them that he was the Dragon Keeper, and that he had been the former charge of the corrupted fairy dragons. While he was saddened by their ultimate fate, he assured the gathered Heroes that all was not lost, for hope remained. Ever esoteric, he lead the group on a treacherous path into the centermost region of Underhill, where several nests of fairy dragon eggs lay dangerously close to the encroaching lava.

The heroes gathered the eggs, carefully transporting them to an underground cave, nestling them among thick mats of lily pads. And not a moment too soon! For the eggs, no longer in distress at the unbearable heat, began to crack, and the cave echoed with the cries of dragon hatchlings.

Though some remain curious as to the Guardian's sudden departure, most were overwhelmed by witnessing the new generation of fairy dragons born anew. It is rumored that the great gold dragon and the hearth mother herself left with bonded hatchlings, though both have remained rather secretive regarding the matter.

Week Two (RPCSS Turn 1)

Shad'ahan

Sylise has been absent from the world stage for two weeks, sparking concern and questions from the populace: Did she abandon us? Was she kidnapped? Perhaps she's given up and is just soaking up the glory of the title and estate. Why are the attendants covering for her? But I saw her! She was fighting the drakes not long ago. And it goes on....

However, Sylise has remained within Shad'ahan but cloistered safely from curious eyes - save one elderly Shadiyan woman. It is said the elderly woman is a midwife and has been bringing food and many bucketfuls of water to the Herald while keeping others out and away with stern maternal demeanor and a voice that commands obedience. Reports say the Herald is recovering from her ordeal and is fine, apart from a somber mood.

Tragedy in Tarasinau

The city of Tarasinau is still reeling from yesterday’s events, with discussion of little else on the lips of the populace.

The day started quietly, with Guardian Lilitu making her way through the fields, tending the crops as they swayed in the summer breeze. But the peace of the morning shifted to an uneasy quiet, and townspeople soon reported feelings of dread, some even breaking out in rashes and boils!

News quickly spread, and heroes gathered at the hearth, defending it against diseased animals and tiny, vicious dragons. As the corrupted animals thinned, the heroes set out to find the tree to which Lilitu had bound herself; to their horror, it too was diseased and poisoned by enchantment. Lady Kitty, head of the City Guard was seen attacking the tainted tree, only to be thrown back by its thrashing limbs. As Lilitu and Caelestia, Lady of Raedoria, were drawn into the entangling roots, Caelestia called out for the goddess Mebh, causing the tree to recoil and release them. But the damage to the tree was too great to undo, and a combination of iron and fire rendered it to smoldering ash.

It was Cicily of Novochebay who noticed a connection to the clues left behind, and opened a portal to her city for answers. There, Dia rapped into the crystal formations left behind. A metallic echo bellowed to those present, sending them to seek a Great Tree. The heroes then traveled to Raedoria, whose Tree bestowed upon them a vision of what may come.

Upon their return to Tarasinau, the Guardian was escorted to the castle by a large golden dragon, who had been seen fiercely protecting her throughout the day. Only time will tell what lies in store for Raeyithia, if not the entire continent, and our heroes have a great deal of work ahead of them.

~A letter arrives from the Guardian of Raeyithia, sent to every Estate and known Forte in the Mainland. Messengers dispatched with request for assembly in Tarafeyn Royal Courte. Saturday, June 13th at 2pm EST~

Week One

Carigsay

The rhythm of hammers and saws upon wood echo from the mountain of Carigsay, as the horselord Jhasato makes good on his end of the bargain to mount ballistas to use against the dragon Abraxes. While some citizens heeded his order to evacuate, others stayed behind, willing to fight for the lives they've made, and assisted in preparations. The work came to an uneasy halt as great wings blotted out the sun, and dragons soared overhead. What was once feared to be agents of Abraxes were actually dragons from Emlyn, led by a large golden male. The dragon and the horselord retreated to discuss secret matters, the details of which they remained mum on, but upon their return, both began renewed work to prepare the city, with the dragons lifting the mighty weapons into place upon the towers. Even without knowing the agreement made, the townspeople seemed visibly relieved to see allies in these troubling times.

Molvernia

The Hunters of the North have been busy, especially in the region of Molvernia, stock piling the ice rooms under the fort with wild game. Yet they can not live on meat alone. The hunters have been moving south to explore more deeply the forests and fields looking for places that have grains and fruits. Led by Skorgi, scouting parties have been ranging further and further into neighboring estates lands. Trade alone will not feed the North.

Port Leon

After a rumor went out that the Lord of Raedoria was gathering forces to check on the well-being of Emlyn, who's dragon leadership had seemingly disappeared, a crowd gathered at Raedoria castle. Sure enough, the Lord of Raedoria, Cynric Degenhard, was advocating a march ahead of small column of forces directly to Port Leon to establish whether the uneasy peace between dragon overlord and human knights had been broken. Some voices raised alarm at the idea of an armed incursion to assure the peace, among them the Queen of Kraestret, but all present agreed to go to witness the proceedings.

Upon arrival, the city was in chaos, the knights of Port Leon, chaffing under draconic rule, attempting to dislodge the dragons from the city. Fires burned but a dragon, Taelarys, was seen leading Cynric's group through the city to the throne room of Emlyn's capital. On the way, a loud burst of sound was heard and the dragons of the city appeared to be losing their ground to the knights. Upon arriving in the Arcanium, apparently the crystal housed in a stone behind the throne of Emlyn, the group learned that the place had been visited by a figure, wreathed in light and bearing a great sword, who had plunged his weapon into the stone of the Arcanium.

After some hesitation, the dragon leading the group into the castle deduced that Cynric may be the one called to pull the sword, owing to Cynric having sensed the distress of the city from as far as Raedoria. Cynric proceed to pull the sword out with one swoop, during which a great light burst forth from the sword and the stone. The voice announced the ending of the time of dragons and the ascendancy of man in Port Leon. In fact it announced the city the "City of Man" and that Cynric was it's king. No one knows to who this voice belonged. Perhaps a god that had replaced Io as the patron of the city?

Soon after, the party retrieved a great horn resting in the boughs of a tree, rumored to be the horn of a great god of man. The horn was used by Cynric to signal the arrival of a human sovereign to the city, ending hostilities with the dragons. Taelarys was granted protection for his recognition of the will of the Gods to exchange the city to humanities hands. In return, he was followed by the rest of the dragons out of Port Leon and given land in Emlyn to call their own instead of facing annihilation. Cynric promised to give them his aid and protection, upsetting some of the formerly occupied humans.

Much has happened but much abides. Humanity now rules Emlyn and the knights appear primed to shake the balance of power in the land.

A Caravan from Tarafeyn

A caravan of guards, herders and scouts was seen leaving Tarafeyn under the cover of night. The pack-mules were strapped with large loads of lumber, making a trail to the gates of Carigsy.

As the city of Tarafeyn recovered from the drake attacks, things seemed to be getting back to normal on the surface. With summer rolling in on a warm breeze, street fairs and festivals were a daily occurrence with parading street performers.

The last of repairs were being made on the castle and defenses, along with gates, were being reinforced.

It wouldn't be a surprise to hear a hum near the fields of the south gate, bee keepers were tending to the little honey workers, keeping Tara's mead stocked for export!

Infirmary at Meissa

Darkmane stands in the infirmary at Meissa, looking around at those he had left to destroy the idol without him. Embarrassed and dis-honoured, he swears to Queen Daciana, that he shall seek the best healers he can find, returning with haste.

Around the Hearthfire in Tarasinau, he sits with Guardian Lilitu and Lady Elliana, known for their healing abilities, convincing them to travel with him to Meissa and lend assistance.

May, 2020

Kraestret, week of May 24-31

• Queen Daciana and Lord Skorgi spent most of the beginning of the week, along with the city guard, trying to rid the streets of Drokkburg of the seemingly unending waves of drakes, that seemed determined to overtake the temple. Unfortunately, at least one seems to have made it to their goal...

• With the drakes finally having receded, the streets hum with the sounds of hammer and saw and chisel, as repairs are set in motion.

• Likewise on the docks, activity is high: shipments of both fresh and preserved meats bound for Midrvegr; and shipments of wood from Drokkburg along with the through-going shipments of lumber from Estervern both bound for Carigsay.

• After the calamity of the false idol, neither the Queen or Lord Molvernia have been seen in town; rumor has it that they wewre whisked away to Meissa and there remained for the moment.

• Whispers run rampant as always. Some speak of the Lord of Estervern, either coming to court the Queen, or alternately to scold her for something. Others mutter about the Queen rather being suddenly enamored of Raedoria or its newly appointed Lord. There is an undercurrent of righteous fury, however, any time Midrvegr or Queen Brea are mentioned, on their behalf.

May 30, 2020

An urgent call rose up from Drokkburg; the people of the city abuzz with a dark and unpleasant energy greeted the heroes as they convened on the Drokkburg temple. Within they found the head priest, his hand badly burned, gibbering in distress; the likeness of Yrsa-as-Hel had at some point during the drake invasion been replaced by an evil idol to Abraxes upon the Arcanum Crystal! In a flurry, the heroes ventured to the Great Library of Meissa, and there learned of a tale concerning a similar occurrence in history, and were finally given a shred of hope. In the possession of the king of the Jotunn, a race of giants, was Thordenheim's Hammer, which might have the power to destroy such a false idol. But, according to the tale, great sacrifices would be needed in order to win the Hammer from them: the rarest fur, the finest mead, an epic tale, and 'the fairest slave-girl in the land' to entertain the King of the Jotunn.

Thus began a whirlwind dash across the lands, gathering what was needed; a rare tiger pelt from the throne of Andus, the sweetest mead Tarasinau had to offer, and then the party voyaged to Andalstad to beg help of Queen Brea on the matter of the slave-girl, it having been decided that a Northern slave would be more to the liking of the Jotunn King than one of those of the Southern deserts.

This, dear readers, is where plans went awry; owing to a vow to see none of her slaves tortured, Queen Brea offered herself into bondage, to be given to the Jotunn as his gift, much to the horror of all those assembled. In the end, it proved the best move they could have made, for it was only the temptation of knowing her station and heritage that brought the giant King to agree to the trade. The exchange was made, and with heavy hearts amid vows of rescue, the heroes returned to Drokkburg to remove the false idol from the Arcanum Crystal.

Though ultimately successful, the cost was beyond heavy, and rumors abound that several of those present had to be rushed to Meissa once more seeking the urgent aid of the healers there...

May 27, 2020

The Drakes, in service to Abraxes, seem to have been called away -- did they simply suffer to much at the hands of our heroes or is Abraxes planning something new? We don't know, but the numbers in the city have seriously dwindled.

May 24, 2020

Once more, the estate holders of Cuiviénen convened at the fairgrounds, this time with few thoughts besides the threat of Abraxes. Queen Daciana of Drokkwald and Khal Jhasato of Carigsay relayed the events of the previous night, stirring those present into a whirlwind of queries and speculation as to the great dragon's motivations.

While his end goal remains unclear, at least some rumors were put to rest, as Queen Nyre of Caerleon assured all present the dragons of her lands were in no way connected to Abraxes, for her city had suffered the same attacks as the others. Without a way to ascertain his motives, the discussion soon turned to how to stop him instead, with multiple suggestions bandied about, from hunting down his nest, to waiting and facing the attacks as they came.

It was not until Baene Thorrstad spoke of holding a festival to draw Abraxes out, did a light of hope seem to shine on our heroes. It was his hope that celebrating the two world dragons, Ancalagon the Black and Jormungandr, would pique Abraxes' jealous rage and draw him out of hiding. But where to hold such a dangerous mission? Khal Jhasato suggested his own city of Carigsay, asserting that its remote location would hopefully prevent any collateral damage. Other estate owners quickly volunteered for the tasks at hand: either supplying wood for the great ballistas to bring down the creature, or offering room for the civilians that must be ushered from the city.

With a plan in place, the meeting drew to a close, each hero returning to their homelands, with the understanding they could very well meet their dooms within a week, but with the hopes they would rid the land of this menace once and for all.

May 23, 2020

Our heroes gather in Al'Shadiya supposedly to deal with the Abraxes threat. It would not take long before they realized that the organizer of the event hadn't shown. They began discussions, bring others up to speed as to what had been happening, when the wind began to blow. It would not be long before the wind resolved into the whomp-whomp of great leathery wings. A dragon as large as the palace itself would land on the roof and bathe the royal residence in fire. Our heroes, clearly unable to fight such a great beast with but a handful of soldiers began to consider their options.

The sky darkened as other dragon minions set fire to the city, and landed in the streets to confront our heroes. The great black dragon would set the market square and trade hall on fire. Quick thinking would have a fire brigand organized and the lesser drakes and the roaring fires would be brought under control. The great dragon took to the skies with a mocking cry of laughter.

But the attack did not end there, for all of the five great cities were attacked, and drakes even now continue to land and harry villagers and farm animals. What will be done to push this incursion back?!

May 4th

East Meets West ... and changes places

It has been long months of civil and martial unrest all over the mainland. Changes were bound to happen. When attacks from the northern borders in Emlyn overwhelm the Knights of the Black Lion, they turn to their allies, the Dragons of Miðrvegr. The dragons were able to help stabilize the kingdom, and when the Knight Reagent, and his inner circle, went missing Queen Nyre stepped in to lead the ancient stone citadel. One might think that she would have tried to keep control of both Emlyn and Miðrvegr but the Dragon Queen must have found something more suited to her tastes in the west. Was it all the stone or the rumors of underground treasure?

No one will likely know, for the last of the Emlyn knights, Mithril Moorbane and Lara Ox, left under cover of night. It would be a few week before the rumor of them would make it farther than a boy might go for a loaf of bread. When the finally surfaced it would be in the Miðrvegr capitol of Åndalstad. They were a voice of calm within the fiercely independent northerners, and some structure would remain intact.

They waited to hear word from either Queen Daciana or the intrepid Daliya Morskaia of Valdrdómr. Rumors say that Queen Daciana was forced to flee the capital and trying to run the kingdom from a remote estate. It would be more long weeks before Daliya, having left by sea to find her beloved commander Audolfr, would herself wash up on the shores of Åndalstad, right at the very feet of two people she never expected to find in her homeland.

April, 2020

April 26th, 2020

Our heroes answered the call, deciding to commit themselves to find more information on this paranormal effect on the minds of our people. Through their efforts, they foiled a plot by the witch Matilda LeCras, who had kidnapped a local scholar named Orianna, the prime investigator.

Matilda’s vice and crime would not prevail this time, and the secrets which she protected were in part revealed to our heroes. Her intentions were still unclear, and for the most part, a lot of questions still dig into the minds of our heroes, lingering like rocks in their shoes.

When she was confronted, our heroes managed to loot an old manuscript from Matilda. It appears that Cuiviénen was deceived... through centuries of conflict over supremacy, filled with hatred and death, an unknown evil was summoned. This unknown God reached the height of its power when war was at the zenith, and rumours circulate that it fed off the diminishing power in the Arcanum Crystals.

Whispers spread like wildfire throughout town, that the unknown God may have been responsible for the recent downfall of Cuiviénen, causing the displacement of those gods who were set in effigy towards this power source.

The words of Matilda LeCras echo throughout the land, that Abraxas shall rise again, and our heroes now must find the true meaning, as history has a way of repeating itself.

April 19th, 2020

As the fight for supremacy temporarily subsides in Cuiviénen, so too does this curious blight and many of the townsfolk question if it was even a plague at all, or something else entirely... Word spreads that it is fuelled by conflict.

On the Summer Isle, life returns to normal, however there have been reports of the townsfolk curiously losing their memory of things, beginning with Quinn the Auctioneer. Memories of the past & present, where things have been left, and where the road leads seem to be sliding for some, disappearing like tears in the rain.

The local healers and clerics have been inundated with questions, and have thus far, have produced no answers. Rumours circulate that something or someone locally in The Summer Isle is purposefully taking these memories to serve their own purpose.

The Summer Isle, which was once thought to be a refuge and sanctuary away from war, seems to be becoming a bit more precarious... Those seeking the answers to this mystery might start asking questions as well.

April 1, 2020

Many of the great houses appear to have fled from the sickness cast over the land, seeking self-preservation above their divine ruling.

Those who remained in Cuiviénen and stood their ground in the face of the plague perished with their honor intact, or, similar to our heroes, appear to have resisted the darkness.

New powers begin to rise in their stead, as is the nature of things. Whispers and rumors begin circulating pointing blame for the tragedy on each of the deities above the Arcanum Crystals. It seems, however, to be unsubstantiated, and merely an attempt by warring houses to cause ill on the image of their rivals.

Amidst the chaos, widespread looting and brigandry are apparent. Small groups of opportunistic criminals are now holding up important trade routes between the kingdoms, taking advantage of the diffused darkness.

Now our heroes are posed the question... should they seize the opportunity to bolster their houses and lay claim to Cuiviénen? Or should they seek out the meaning of this plague and search for answers?

March, 2020

There is little news coming from the mainland. A deadly plague has swept from coast to coast. The human death toll mounts and residents stay inside. Only our heroes and many of the "monsters" seem safe from the effects. A time of turmoil begins. Will this once and for all balance the number of humans vs non-human in our world?

November 2019

Week Four

Wardens of the Wilds

All is quiet in Carigsay this week, as the (relative) chill of winter brings the city to a standstill. Though several visiting merchants chuckle at the allegations of cold weather, insisting that the northern kingdoms are FAR more brutal this time of year.

Week Three

Valdrdómr

While those of the Fjarora region prepare for the harsh reality of a Northern winter, troops holding the banners of Prismatic Sovereignty have been seen in the territory. What will occur and whom will be victorious is anyone's guess. But as always the Valdrdomr, stand at the ready.

Qubilat al-Asad

Noted "training" missions continue to continue and the forces seem to be growing larger in number, Sultan Sahure assures his people in the weekly meeting that this is "training". Though many are starting to feel that there may be more to as the surrounding boarders seem to be growing to the West with encampments.

Wardens of the Wilds

It seems as though the city of Carigsay has taken a cue from their slumbering god, for all is seemingly quiet this week. With Brighwell now under Wardens control, there is an increased stream of traffic and commerce between the two, but nothing out of the ordinary.

Bands of Wardens continue to patrol the western kingdom in the hopes of maintaining the peace, but with the trolls retreated to their mountain lairs, the wilds seem relatively calm once more.

Order of the Black Lion

Those around Caerleon have been often hearing the sounds of horns and the sight of many men mounted on horses circling about the city. They appear to be restless and scouts have moved eastward.

The High Priest and Inquisitor continue to track every lead available regarding a string of murders that recently happened in the capital. There is word that Dalilja of Fjarora may be summoned.

Week Two

The Prismatic Sovereignty

While the capital city whispers occasionally of the joint court held in Andalstad this week, that news is nothing compared to the hushed conversations centering around the conflict in Haverbron and the fury of the dragon queen. Some say men march directly for Fjarora, while others insist the dragon queen will burn the seaside village to the ground herself.

Valdrdómr

After mobilizing forces, being victorious in battle, and taking control of the Haverbron region—those of the house have rejoiced. Though the North is one step closer towards being united, at least in the eyes of the Valdrdómr, those of Fjarora have remained vigilant.

Trolls

Nothing has been heard from the trolls since the battle in the north from scouts of townsfolk. Could this be a lesson learned by the trolls or is there more going on within the mountains?

Qubilat al-Asad

Noted "training" missions continue to continue and the forces seem to be growing larger in number, Sultan Sahure assures his people in the weekly meeting that this is "training". Though many are starting to feel that there may be more to as the surrounding boarders seem to be growing to the West with encampments.

Rumors continue to bleed throughout the city about the Sultan abruptly leaving the joint meeting of several houses mid-way through it. Could this mean anything or is everything just peaceful and the army movements are just that.. Training?

Wardens of the Wilds

The people of Carigsay are positively buzzing over news that a unit of the Wardens has marched into the neighboring city of Brighwell and taken over! While leadership assures us that the occupation was, in fact, a peaceful affair, and will only strengthen both cities in the long run, one has to wonder how this news will affect the Wardens' relationship with Raeyithia, to whom Brighwell technically belongs.

News about the town itself has been mostly quiet, as the Ceannasai prepares to journey north to meet with the lord of the trolls. Several Wardens scouts have ventured ahead, in the hopes of securing an uneventful journey, though if rumours are to be believed, trolls are an unpredictable lot.

Week One

The Prismatic Sovereignty

Rumors from the capital city are scarce this week, though they say the Queen is still taking her daily walks down to check on the men sent from Emlyn. The banners of the Sovereignty are seen near Haverbron again, as more men gather within the stronghold and those same banners fly proudly to the west over Estervern now, announcing the Sovereignty's claim on the region.

Andalstad itself seems calm, though perhaps a sense of waiting sits heavy over the capital city.

Valdrdómr

Though the higher-ranking members of the House have noticeably been absent as of late, army units continue to move erratically throughout the Fjarora region. Some say it is a distracting tactics, meant to alley fears of attack, others comment that perhaps dissension lives within the Valdrdómr.

Are those of the house still committed to a united North? Do they still hold the Northern Pantheon of Gods in high regard? Only time will tell.

Wardens of the Wilds

Word from the Wilds reaches Carigsay that, though the Wardens have yet to make contact - or even locate - the troll encampment, the process of elimination seems to have worked in their favor, and only a few unexplored bits of the northern mountains remain. The Ceannasai has even been heard saying she would make the journey herself, in hopes of speaking with the lord of the trolls.

Additionally, there are hushed rumors that a contingent of Wardens have not ventured north with the others, but instead are engaged in what some are calling "aggressive negotiations." Will their deeds pay off in putting Carigsay on the map? Or do they simply paint a target upon their own backs? No one knows for certain, and leadership is frustratingly mum on the subject.

Sounds of construction have finally faded once more, as the Ceannasai's latest project reaches completion, and the town of Carigsay now boasts a bath house to rival the finest capital establishments.

Order of the Black Lion

Scouts watching Emlyn forces in the North note that forces arrived at Andalstad and have not shown any sign of preparing to mobilize anytime in the short term. While Caerleon officials state that the armies are there for "peacekeeping," the mission has provided a secondary benefit - a successful cultural exchange between two peoples that do not often encounter one another.

On a darker note, rumors have escaped Caerleon of grisly murders that transpired within the walls. The delay between the time of the murders and the rumors escaping suggest local authorities may have attempted to cover up the incidents as much as possible, however, with the number of victims and witnesses it became impossible. A garrison was called back to the capital and one would note an increased presence of guards, even late into the night. Some believe a habitual murderer has taken residence in Caerleon, others suggest it was done in a way to send a message. Servants may be heard discussing how they cleaned up blood and limbs.

Qubilat al-Asad

Noted "training" missions continue to continue and the forces seem to be growing larger in number, Sultan Sahure assures his people in the weekly meeting that this is "training". Though many are starting to feel that there may be more to as the surrounding boarders seem to be growing to the West with encampments.

During this past weekly meeting for several houses it was noted that the Sultan abruptly left the processing's to never return. Several locals speculate that there is tensions building from the Northern lands.

Trolls

Word is that the trolls have started to take back to the mountains after a skirmish ensued leaving many dead trolls. Unsure of who or what took part in this battle at the entrance of the mountain pass.

Archive

• Archive: News and Rumor 2019