Rumor Archives

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Recent Rumors

Kesenday, Quintoos 5, 1016

Weather Incoming?

It's a crystal clear, chill evening in the Temple of Eluna, and an elderly Seer sits before the crystal-clear pool that never fails to show the stars above, no matter the weather. Her iron-grey hair flutters around long, pointed ears as she sprinkles a powder around the edge of the pool, then chants several lines in the sibilant Sildanyari tongue, spreading a hand over the pool. After a moment, it begins to glow softly, the powder vanishing from around it; it appears to be ... waiting.

Satisfied, the woman lowers her hand, tucking up her heels next to her, and asks the pool, "What will the weather for this coming sevenday bring?"

In answer, the pool pauses, then flashes a bright, clear, pristine white, with nothing else visible. The image holds a moment, then fades away, leaving two or three others who had come to watch startled and the elderly Seer chuckling. "Well, then. I hope the acolytes know where the shovels are." With an effort, she gets to her feet, dusts herself off, and takes herself off into the recesses of the temple, leaving chatter of younger Seers and acolytes behind her.

Aldean

Gilday, Khael 3, 1016

Damage Assessment

Concerns about the recent rumors on the deserters-turned-raiders at the war front have risen from the Temple of Althea. Sentinel Godwyn Sylvan has stated interest to find out if these rumors have any truth to them, and is thus looking to form a reconnaissance team to find answers. Make for the Temple District for more information.

Godwyn

Tariday, Khael 2, 1016

Another Celestial Appearance

Rumors about 'Paladin Training Sessions' apparently were not unfounded. A man was said to've created an obstacle course and claimed that he could help those present 'prove themselves' paladins. When actual paladins objected to this and began explaining the nature of the calling, he questioned them. Several people tried the obstacle course and failed, but the paladins, working together, were able to cross it succesfully. When they did, the host of the event revealed himself to be some kind of Celestial being of light and wings and soon vanished thereafter, according to rumor. Some speculate that this may have been the same Celestial being that was behind the Braggart's Tavern contest before it was taken over and renamed Steel Von Ironbrew's.

Whirlpool

Eliday, Quintoos 30, 1016

Rumors from the War Front

Word starts to spread about one of Arendt's generals, Grey Gore. It seems he's been spotting a lot of omens that promise his defeat to Rune. An owl with the corpse of a raven in its claws. Grey Gore's personal weapon, rusted found in a bloodied personal banner of Grey Gore's. There has also been mentioned a spectre of death that seems to be haunting the man, wherever he goes. More than a few of his troops are starting to lose heart, and it's said that some of his troops have begun to desert. Even more damning, he's been unable to stop raiding in the countryside, unable to protect the people, and it's even being said that his troops are the ones doing the raiding. Grey Gore is losing control of himself, of his troops and Arendt is beginning to lose confidence and quietly starting to look for a replacement.

Tatyannah

Variday, Quintoos 17, 1016

Justice or Vengeance?

Over the last week, several people - mostly those who are known for being minor magical shysters of the nastier sorts - have reported being stalked, attacked, and forcibly branded by a woman tattooed with the symbol of Eluna. Their brands are seared into their foreheads, and their wounds otherwise are just enough to subdue them for the branding. Complaints about subverting proper justice procedures have been made to the Temple of Eluna, which has promised to take the situation under contemplation.

(OOC: Want to know more, get involved in the cleansing of the streets, or chastize someone for taking the law into their own hands? Contact Meihui!)

Meihui

Eliday, Quintoos 16, 1016

Caldor Methis Found Alive!

Rumors of the Councilman's death have been greatly exagerated.

In a brief statement issued by the Council of Alexandria, Caldor Methis has been located alive and returned to the city o f Alexandria by brave heroes who faced the fearsome Obsidian Syndicate, that had attempted to kidnap the councilman while he was attending to diplomatic business within Bludgun. Swift conemnations of the criminal organization by both governments followed. Caldor has been seen about town, sporting a very bad limp, but moving under his own power. No doubt these public appearances are to put to ease any who might doubt the story.

Of course, that's just the official story.

<<Questions can be ICly directed to Solace, Verna, Corra, Moonshadow, Rhodes, Godwyn, Kiroth and Constantin, as they all mysteriously returned to town around the same time for the keen observer! >>

Whirlpool

Adamantine Found!

The coffers of Rune have received a much needed inflation of gold, as well as their war supplies having been bolstered. Indeed, an unknown quantity of Adamantine has been located by the city-state and is alrady beeing forged into the instruments of war to use against the so-scalled Iron Tide. One Runish Blacksmith can be heard to say, "Iron beats copper, Steel beats iron, and Adamantine carves them all to pieces."

He thinks he's clever.

At any rate, Rune has received a much needed boost from this.

<<For a look behind the official story, talk to Jareth, Kerbasy, Verna, Ssylrath, Benthus, Aurala and Azog. >>

Whirlpool

The Secure Panacea Wants You!

The Secure Panacea, Khazadi trading company, is looking for adventurers who might be interested in helping them delvier a caravan of much needed supplies onto the frontier!

They are looking for several, reputable individuals. If you're interested, please contact the Guild of Explorers with your qualifications.

<@Mail Whirlpool>

Whirlpool

Variday, Quintoos 10, 1016

A Door in Rune

Earlier today, a door opened in Rune. No one knew what it was for, or where it went, and that's why adventurers were sent through it. The door lead to some sort of extraplanar location, where an obelisk dedicated to a Kulthian stood. Being brave adnveturers, it was said that they toppled the obelisk. Worse still, apparently, the bones of those who built were immured within. The door is said to be destabilizing, much like the pocket plane it leads to, but not before the Vardamans were summoned and the bones of many ancient individuals were retrieved for proper burial.

<<For information, seek out Aevarr, Korrani, Belladona, Aldean, Fa'lere and Dragomir! >>

Whirlpool

Korday, Quintoos 6, 1016

Harvest Festival Announcement

Talk of this year's Harvest Festival is beginning to spread around the Lower Markets. A general invitation to the Temple of Althea for a grand feast, for example. Soon enough, word should begin to reach the rest of the city.

(OOC: Visit the Temple of Althea and speak to Godwyn for more details.)

Godwyn

Tariday, Quintoos 4, 1016

Volcano Calms in Dran

The volcano that had erupted recently in Dran just as suddenly stops it's huffing and puffing. The rains of ash that plagued the land and more have ceased and things have calmed down. A little. The Dranei force are still busy, thankfully for Rune, and it seems to've bought the beleagured city state time that it has needed to bolster its defenses and resupply.

The Piarliament of Rune continues to deny any involvement in the eruption while the so-called 'Iron Tide' continues to point fingers in their direction, claiming the timing was the work of wizardry and a clear indication that the wizards of Rune must be brought to heel.

In other news, preparations for the summit between Khazadi and Stormgaard's leaders are proceeding apace, with the final details in the process of being worked out.

Whirlpool

Variday, Rhaltaas 20, 1016

Hunter's Call

The High Hunt honors Gilead...and its celebrations explode into a world of culture and variety. The egalrin in their elder days celebrated it under the auspices of Caracoroth, as scourges of the skies. Today it may take the form of spiritual hunts and sky dances, guided by their eldest shamans. Or for the warhawks among them, a confrontation against old blood--old traditions versus new in the darkest hunt of blood and talon and kin against kin.

The sildanyari have always celebrated it; their rituals go back to their race's birth, to the time when Gods walked upon Ea and the sildanyari's fae blood ran strong. Quelynos' unending forests opened before them and their blades of light stood against the blood hordes. For a night, legend says, they touch upon this ancient power and honor their histories. (Though, for mul'niessa, it may be a time of mourning or mockery...through Taara's curse, no such light comes to them). The sith-makar celebrate it with tribe-wide hunts against Am'shere's terrors, eradicating threats to their tribal lands, and the oruch with the beat of hunting drums in the Hound's honor, the air filled with their full-throated hunter's cries.

Among the druids, legend says that the Hunt lessens the barriers between the Green and the every day. Tales circulate (how true they are, no one can swear to) of pathways glimpsed to wilderness unknown, where forests run forever and great beasts thunder beneath the skies...for some among them, a pale and ghostly stag leads the way, and the hunters may do naught but follow.

Among the Myrrish, the holiday is more well-organized, with honorable targets chosen for the greater good. Among the Stormgarde, endurance and survival are achievements of the greatest hunters, in contests and hunt-gatherings that take place in the mountains' coldest depths.

Though celebrated worldwide, there has never been one way to do so. The High Hunt honors Gilead, it honors the Wild...with traditions both new, and those which trace their lineage to beginning times.

Against them all stands is Caracoroth, a force who would end with blooded claw everything the Hunt embodies. His forces stand ready to slake the divine fields with hunters' own blood, to turn the tide against Gilead and turn its power towards His own means.

OOC: This month, we invite you to run your own High Hunt, as well to bring RP to the grid. Explore and invent traditions, tales, and stories, sing the Wild Song, and ready your bow. The High Hunt officially occurs on the 31st, but feel free to celebrate it any day this month, via the power of Dramatic Time.

Gilday, Rhaltaas 15, 1016

Spiders Found Outside Temples, Gnomes Charged with Reckless Artificing

Brundle and Fythe company was pleased to announce their new shrinking ray!

And enlarging ray.

Naturally, the two gnomes invention was a complete disaster and enlarged a pair of spiders to gigantic proportions. While there were no casualties and the spiders were swiftly squashed, Brundle and Fythe were still taken into custody on charges of Reckless Artificing.

Whirlpool

Eliday, Rhaltaas 12, 1016

A Poster Appears!

Just having recovered from the Sendor War and the Time of Troubles, Alexandria faces a new foe in the form of Heth, in the form of Arendt. Its economy struggles to react and its populace waits on a precipice.

That is why the gnomes have decided to help out.

Known for their cheerfulness (as well as unfor--*delete delete delete* fortunate fortunes in local silver mining), the community of Happy Valley has come together with the Alexandrian Council to sponsor an unofficial Week of Heroism! Celebrations are encouraged, tales will be old, and dancing and drinking will be had and done, all in celebration of Alexandria's accomplishments, the heroism of its denizens and their brave deeds!

Posters have magically appeared--as though by gnomish famous illusionary magic! all over the City announcing this. Some of them are animated; all of them are colorful and festive.

So celebrate with us this week, raise a mug to Angoron, and a toast to what makes Alexandria great and good! Or at least what makes it fun!

Eliday, Rhaltaas 05, 1016

Demon Loosed!

It was a tpyical day at the Soldier's Defense, with people streaming in and out to conduct their business, when a group of adventurrs fresh from some sort of exploit lost control of a demonic creature they'd captured. Rumor states it was quickly recaptured by several more adventurers who hapepned to be on scene, resulting in a scene like out of a greased pig contest with people trying to dive and grab it. Magic was evnetually used to bring it under control. But what could people want with such a creature, and why keep such a monstrosity alive?

Whirlpool

Tariday, Daeshen 30, 1016

Adventure Scout Troop

Overheard by the washwomen of the city gathered to do laundry:

"Did you hear that Lady Sandy has agreed to be the Den Mother of the local troop of Adventure Scouts?"

"No I didn't...who are the Adventure Scouts?"

"Well I heard that they are a newly formed children's group that teaches children how to become adventurers one day."

"And Lady Sandy is leading them?"

"Yes, she has agreed to be the Den Mother."

"Did she start this group?"

"Oh no...supposedly the children themselves did it after finding a Handbook in the library by the Most Famous Adventurer in all the World, Baron Alfonso Escabardo Gallient, esquire."

"I've heard of him; he's more famous than Steel Von Ironblood!"

"When does this group meet?"

"Three times a week at Lady Sandy's store, Prestigious Moon, now called "The Den" by the Adventure Scouts."

Cesran

Eliday, Daeshen 28, 1016

Summit!

As everyone knows, the Khazadi nations have become a seat of powerful, mercantile interests. It should be of no surprise to anyone that negotiations between nations continue, even in these dark times. Hailed as a break-through, Lord Ygfried Hamergostd, the high ruler of Stormgard itself, is said to be travelling to the Khazad capital of Khazad Duin itself to meet with the High King of the United Dawrven peoples. Stormgaard has a great bounty of goods to trade, they say, and the economic development that the Khazad could help bring to the frozen north with their caravans could benefit both realms extensively. Some whisper that the Jarl is facing restlessness amongst the councils that constitute Stormgard's lower bodies of government and that has helped to prompt this move.

No official date has been yet set for the summit, but it will be the first time in this generation that such a meeting has taken place.

Gilday, Daeshen 24, 1016

Disaster in Dran

Dark smoke fills the Dranei horizon and whispers of newly erupted volcano and a river of magma bursting from the earth and tearing through the countryside are rampant. The destruction of a nearby Dranei foundry and the evacuation of surrounding villages are causing some to point and whisper that the mages of Rune were behind it.

Statements from Parliament deny such accusations and point out that Dran has always been a vocanicly unstable region, and offers of assistance to the civilians of Dran are open ended to those who wish the aid of the Parliament in easing the suffering caused by this eruption.

This has greatly eased, for a time, the pressure on Rune's front lines as large number of forces have pulled back in the wake of the disaster, but all indications are that this is only temporary.

Tariday, Daeshen 23, 1016

Touch of War

Rumors come swirling from the port city of Tashraan, across the sea from Alexandrai in the deserts of Veyshan. An entire family of merchants and their household came under attack and many members murdered in a brutal attack. Such warfare is often common in Tashraan, but it's the rumors of why that draw Alexandrian ears. They say that the merchant house, the HighHold Trading Company, were in negotiations to deliver supplies to Rune with representatives from that beleagured city-state. It is thought likely that the attack o nthem was a deliberate effort by forces acting on the payroll of the Iron Tide to intimidate those who might deal with Rune as well as to remove a potential player from the board.

Bloody reprisals are now on-going and bodies are being left in the streets and alleys of Tashraan. Again, not an uncommon thing, as Tashraan is said to be a hive of scum and villainy of all manner on the same level as Vandalheim, but this time it seems to be all about the war in Rune.

Tariday, Daeshen 16, 1016

Minor Arrest

Several lucht were seen this last eve involved in a theft from a costume shop. Though apprehended by the guards, the theft appeared to be mostly in drunken, though good, spirits and an attempt to, "Show old Garsten some!"

They were apprehended by a pair of guards, one of them a sith-makar who was, according to quotes taken at the time, "Sstudying the lawsss of Alessandria."

The lucht are currently being held at local cells.

Lahar

Variday, Daeshen 15, 1016

Battle Indecisive

In what some are calling a victory for Rune, a recent battle was fought to standstill against the Dran forces in the abandoned village of Ortha. Dran forces are said to've pursued the Parilamentary Guard into the abandoned village and attempted to smoke out the defending force before being engaged and driven to retreat. Several prisoners were taken, and many more Dran were killed in this defeat. The Runish Parliamentary Guard is often though to be little more than an untrained militia, and thus, this victory is thought to be signfiant, if small, in proving that they can be an effective fighting force.

Rune has recently asked for more of its mercenary forces to take an active role in training the milita.

That said, the battle itself did have high casualties for the Guard, and thus, some others are sauing it's simply a sign of a contiuing lack of a decisive victory for either side.

Whirlpool

Gilday, Daeshen 03, 1016

Rumors on the Streets

Two interesting rumours today. Firstly there was something of an incident at the infamous Goblin house of ill-repute, Ma Rosey's. Apparently local Goblinoid Criminal Two Toes was confronted by several large and well armed people about some kind of debt. After some destruction of property they seemed to reach some kind of agreement without any further violence.

Secondly the temple of Althea seems to have had a small influx of orphans, brought in by Sentinel Godwyn. Grubby and malnourished they are being looked after by the clergy there.

Yngvild

Call for Stories!

Lelian continues her quest to document the War and the effect it has had on people. She is willing to pay a small amount to hear your stories and record them for the future.

OOC: I'm almost always available for RP M/W/F during the day, T/Th and weekends are kinda iffy. I may be on, but doing other things. So, if you want to do an interview, just ping me. Or send me a @mail with a story.

Lelian

Ceriday, Callem 30, 1016

They Call Him, "The Skipper"

They call him 'The Skipper' now. A child, can't be any more than ten years of age, is now regularly skipping and prancing his way through the lower trade district. It seems he can't move in any way/ but/ a skip. One moment he was moving along nicely through the district and the next... he was skipping to and fro while screaming about how he couldn't stop. He's been spotted a few times since then, still skipping along with a not-so-merry look on his face.

It's the third such unusual malady to strike a child in recent days.

Whirlpool

Korday, Callem 28, 1016

Disaster Averted in Rune!

It was towards the end of another long day in the bleagured City State of Rune when the top floor of the tower of the School of Enchanting was engulfed in what appeared to be green hellflame. While this event quickly ended, reports of some sort of demonic attack on the school went far and wide.

The Parliamnet quickly issued the following statement:

"Treachery most foul nearly befell Rune tonight when a traitor to our ranks, a minor wizard by the name of Arnus Shagan, unleashed demons in an effort to decapitate the school of enchanting through clever manipulations. Shagan is now to be formerly tried for his crimes punished appropriately as per the rules of Rune. He had hoped, as all traitors do, to gain some monetary reward for his actions from Arendt. It would appear that no base treachery, no vile plan, and no scheme is too low for the enemy confronting Rune. Where has the fabled honor of the Dran gone when they back those would ply the trade of demon-summoning?"

Shan is being held in an 'undisclosed location'... which probably means he's not even on this plane anymore.

<RP with Orion, Cressida, Alice, Zlegvog, Laefwyn and Alakton for more details!)

Whirlpool

Tariday, Callem 26, 1016

Strange Malady

A child has been taken to the temple of Althea for a strange malady that's afflicted him. His voice has gone from the normal voice of a child to a rather... high pitched squeaky voice. It's very unsuual and most everyone seems to find it amusing, but the clerics of ALthea seem rather stumped as to how to treat it.

Whirlpool

Unusual Smell

Rumors emanate from the Orphanage that a particular child has developed a most unusual smell. None of the othr children can stand to be around him. Any number of baths appear to be doing nothing to wash the stink off. "It's almost as bad as that rodent vendor," one is quoted as saying, "but not quite that bad."

Whirlpool

Kesenday, Callem 22, 1016

Evil Plot Broken in Goblintown

Though the exact situation is unclear, apparent agents of the treacherous Hobgoblin clan known as 'The Garnaks' were located in Goblintown and their treacherous plan foiled! The Alexandrian Intelligence Operations are taking credit for the deed, declaring success in the effort against the minions odf Thul, and dismiss all reports to the contrary that a group of adventurers stumbled into them by sheer dumb luck investigating a phony kidnapping.

Whirlpool

Korday, Callem 21, 1016

A Call for Stories

Fliers and a bit of news around Alexandria bring the following:

Lelian, librarian and scribe, wishes to record the stories of those affected by the Dran-Rune War. She would like to hear from soldiers, refugees, prisoners, diplomats, and even regular civilians. These stories will be collected and recorded as a reminder of what transpired in this time.

OOC: I am not sure how I will RP out any interview scenes, but I'll think of something. In addition, you can also @mail me your stories. I am planning on editting them and putting them on Lelian's wiki page.

IC: (because I am lame and forgot this until after I had put a bunch of stuff in) Lelian is offering a small amount of compensation for peoples' time.

Lelian

Tariday, Callem 19, 1016

News from the Front

Word of new magics comes down from the northern front. It seems that Rune's magi, armed with new and terrible incantations, have managed to hold firm against Dran's advances in the north. Even though the flow of casualties back to the capital seems unabated, they no longer talk about pulling back.

In other unrelated news, an airship heading southeast from Volstengrad claims to have seen a great white winged shape venting it's anger against the upper slopes of the Sky Curtains. Naturally, it didn't approach closer.

(If you're curious, Alice, Orion, Cressida, Duncan, Renfrey and Rhar may know more ICly -- go find them on the grid)

Hippieclasm

Variday, Callem 18, 1016

Vandals strike Tarien's temple!

Vandals struck the Temple of Tarien, according to some reports. Well, reports might be giving the tales a little too much credit. More like tavern rumors and jokes told over campfires by followers of Coyote. Nothing was taken and no permanent damage was done, mostly just a mess and some graffiti. It seems rather than getting upset over the incident, Tarienites are split between taking it as a poorly thought prank - though still a prank and therefore something the Laughing One would approve of - and an excuse to spruce up the 'old and already stale' furnishings that haven't been replaced since the last celebration.

An impromptu investigation by Rhar, Jibbom, Tatyannah, Aenyn and Nicolai soon discovered the culprits. A band of young orphans who are no doubt headed for lives of poverty or banditry. Their punishment is...to be taken in and taught how to pull pranks and to rob people more effectively.

Tarienites.

Nicolai

Tariday, Callem 12, 1016

Plant Pirate Pizzaz

A group of adventurer's were contracted by an../honest/ captain to seek out something that his former /honest/ captain had left behind. It seems the captain had hidden something on an isle and while it was discovered where, they were not having much luck getting onto the isle. THe adventurer's undertook the job and set to the isle. There they were beset upon by plant pygmies, but those were narrowly able to be defeated and from there they entered a deep dark dank cave. Well things did not go too well, as it was slippery. There was a fall, a fight, and a nasty belching plant monster. They made it out but there are plans to return eventually and try again.

(For info seek, Lothos, Lyrana, Dur'ankar, Autumn, Grumpins, Selerik, and Smythly. Brought to you by Zlegvog plot)

Lyrana

Tariday, Callem 12, 1016

Goblin on a Bear

Smyhtly, the so-called Goblin Paladin of Reos, was seen reutrning to town on a...bear. Those who spoke to him say he claimed to want to be like his hero, 'Lady Cinnamon', and that his new friend, 'Muddy', was quite the smart (and apparently harmless, or so the goblin'd have you believe), bear. They were soon seen at the fish market. Buying a lot of fish, of course.

Smythly

Kesenday, Callem 08, 1016

Infernal Fire?

Last night, a fire broke out near the Lower Market. Details are unclear, but at least one local was seriously burned, and several members of the Guild of Explorers were burned in fighting the blaze. There are unconfirmed reports of a demon involved, and word has begun to circulate of another demon cult in the city.

<<Cesran, Jenner, Klythos, Mikilos, MoonMoonVuk, Svarshan, and Talazia may provide additional details.>>

Mikilos

Kesenday, Callem 08, 1016

Pet Engineer

It seems that there was an emergency. An airship went down and its engineer hadn't been heard from. A group of adventurers were called upon to seek out what had happened and return the engineer if at all possible. The group gathered together, led by the tracking skills of Rhar, they eventually made it to where the ship went down and then tracked to the location of the engineer. Once there they discovered what no one expected. The engineer appeared to be the pet of a grey render. Through libral use of stew laced with prunes, the grey render was rendered out of the picture and the Engineer escorted home. He got lucky though cause for a moment it looked like the render might follow the poor engineer home.

(OOC: this was from Totally Tuesday Spontanaity plot, any questions seekout Rhar, Benthus, Lyrana, Selerik, Grumpins, or Silverwing.)

Lyrana

Korday, Aestry 31, 1016

Murder in Rune!

In the middle of the night, a large group of guards were summoned to a home near to the wall in the city of Rune. There, they quickly surrounded the small, unassuming looking cottage and far more of them, according to rumor, went inside than could possibly fit. This is not exactly out of the question in a city like Rune.

Immediately thereafter, the word spreads the Transmuter Korgan was found murdered in his home last night. As a member of the Parliament of Rune, he was apparently on the Subcomitte for Internal Security. His murder raises serious concerns, and has set the city to a restless edge.

...well... more of one, anyways.

Whirlpool

Gilday, Aestry 30, 1016

Refugees declare: Ogres, Worgs...

It seems that a group of adventurers recently were contracted to help evacuate a village before Dran forces could get too close. The group arrived and the evacuation was started. Just before they got into the clear a group of bugbears and worgs attacked. They were led by an ogre. It was close, the worgs kept tripping folks but eventually they took them down. The Sling is truly a mighty weapon. Only a couple refugees were killed most made to safety.

(For Information talk to Corra, Lothos, Alakton, Laefwyn, or Lelian)

Corra

Variday, Aestry 21, 1016

Renewed Trade with Veyshan

With food prices spiking, trade with the Veyshanti has become more important, which is why it was a relief for many merchants to hear that the trade routes across the sea have resumed with no further loss of ships. Recently, a few had dissapeared along the usual route from Tashraan, but it would appear whatever was causing that has ended.

While Alexandria does not buy food from Veyshan, obviously, and is in fact considered the 'breadbasket' of much of it's immediate area with it's strength of agriculture, the resumption of obstructed trade should help offset the increase in price.

Whirlpool

Eliday, Aestry 20, 1016

Attempted Kidnapping in Rune!

The famed(???) Professor Fizzulefuse was the victim of an attempted kidnapping by constructs. Some speculate that they were, of course, of his own devise and that the project went awry, but such things could never happen to the famed Professor Fizzlefuse, right?

Right.

At any rate, they were defeated, and the Professor moved to another inn.

No one is blaming Dran for the attack.

Posted by Whirlpool

Eliday, Aestry 20, 1016

Denouncement of Rune

An angry letter from Arendt is making the rounds, loudly accusing Rune of murdering it's own civilians and trying to cast the blame on Dran's forces. He openly blames Rune for the event and swears that any and all civilians who wish to surrender to the Dran will be treated with mercy and honor, as well as given a chance to start a new under Dran's rule.

Naturally, this fine bit of propaganda is earning many scoffs within the walls of Rune, and raucous laughter in Alexandria, but for those caught between the warring powers, it might just make letting Dran roll over them seem a bit more tempting.

Posted by Whirlpool

Eliday, Firetide 1, 1016

A Successful Hunt

The tracking party that set out after the disruption at Mictlan returns with a trussed up Lucht. Seems they caught whoever it is they were after.

OOC: Questions to Sslyrath, Solace, Azog, Lorien, and Radek.

Something's Brewing!

"Mead? You call that a mead?"

"Better'n yours!"

"MY MEAD IS MADE ONLY WITH THE FINEST HONEY. I feed me bees no less than 10 proof," says the second brewer more modestly, as she pushes back a mane of khazad-true hair.

"Oh! And I feed mine 15!" goes her opponent, obviously lying, but the debate is thick now, and the stories soon grander.

Such are the debates on the streets... /something/ is (haha) brewing. With the coming of summer, the khazad are breaking out the summer ales and even whiskeys, topping the latter off with mixes flavored by bloodstone and deepcrystal and newfangled...they whisper...

...ice. Soon more easily obtainable, for cold, chilled drinks under summer's heat. The rumors hint, in a few overly-vocal, khazad debates.

It's a /rumor/. But the heat already over the Alexandrian metropolis has more than a few excited...and more than a few local merchants looking over their shoulders, at more evidence of the growing power of the khazad empire.

Kesenday, Hattanan 30, 1016

The Sith-makar Empress to Mictlan

Today, the Sith-Makar Empress took a trip to the holy site, a land of Dragon Bones, known as Mictlan. It was there that she spoke to those present to learn the history of the place and to bless the union between Alexandria and the people of Am'shere. It is also said that the Dragon Knight, Anise, was in attendance and that a Dran spy may well have been captured in the vicinity. No one in authority has confirmed or denied this, but a group of riders set off on an effort to track additional friends that might've been with this rumored spy.

Korday, Hattanan 29, 1016

Sewer Work

There seems to be an unusual amount of work going on in the swwers lately. A whole lot more people than usual dressed in sewer worker's suits going in and out of it. Someone in the government is clearly up to something.

Brain Drain

While the Conclave has been broken for years now, there are a great many wizards who still feel some loyalty to the nation and city that birthed it.

A great many sorcerers, wizards, and other dabblers in the magical arts are flocking to volunteer their service in Rune's protection, much to the chagrin of their former patron states.

Variday, Hattanan 23, 1016

The Madness of Angorites and Dinosaurs

Angorites are mad.

Hiring Wizards to summon giant lizards from Am'shere /just/ so they could practice wrestling on them? /Mad/.

Apparently, no one died. This is probably because there were clerics nearby.

Well, Sir...It had Wings. Sort of.

Late--or rather, early this Variday saw a group of oruch were seen going from tavern to tavern. The oruch themselves were unremarkable...but the large, long-beaked bird-creature trailing along through the streets and behind them, well.

THAT was a sight to see!

The 'pterodactyl' was apparently (it turns out) a prank by some Tarienites, wanting to have some fun with the recent dinosaur wrestling event.

In light of this, the drunken rampage that occured an hour later (apparently those same oruch, but reports also blame it on gnomes; everyone blames it on gnomes) was almost overlooked.

Supposedly, though, it had something to do about baths.

Gilday, Hattanan 21, 1016

Merchant Ties Cross Cultures

"'Ey. Yeah, business has been busy, praise Truehammer. What with the war...I mean, it's not a war. But you know how it goes." The khazad-aul rubs at his beard. He watches one of the Am'sherians explore the shop. The sith-makar picks up an axe, then a blade.

"You like that one? Black ash-forged. Passed down son to son, to daughter. Hah! Then to me! Legend has it--we forged Caracoroth's chains, you know."

The sith looks up, eyes narrowing. "Sarasorothh?"

There's an awkward pause.

"Think I heard one of you 'scales refer to him as the Hunger Dragon." At that, the sith-makar's eyes widen, then narrow in speculation.

He purchases the axe with a thanks to the 'ssoftskin', before making his way out again.

Tales like this are becoming while not uncommon, at least less rare, with the visit of the Empress. The khazad, rightly famous for their goods and wares, have found business booming among local adventurers, and it's said the clans may be sending in another skilled craftsman or...three, to help spread the load.

The khazad have never been shy about spotting a business opportunity.

Eliday, Hattanan 18, 1016

Reports from Rune

No one ever said conquering Rune would be easy.

The so-called 'Iron Tide' of the warlord Arendt and the Adomari Oruch are engaged in a brutal slugfest with the defensive forces of Rune. Early reports are that the cost in blood is high on both sides, though Rune's magical prowess has so far limited its losses -- but those losses it does suffer are far more grievous. And as news of high toll spreads, pradoxically, more warriors of Dran rush to join the fighting to be part of it's 'glory'.

Ceriday, Hattanan 17, 1016

Wealthy Youth?

Recently, several merchants involved in the trade of arms and armor report attemots to purchsae weaposn by a large number of children, perhaps a dozen of them, who seemed incredibly rich for their age and street-clothes. This has resulted in several arched eyebrows. The few merchants talking about it indicate that they did not sell to them, themselves, but that no doubt someone did.

Light Show

Alexandrian military maneuvers and war drills, involving their airship fleet, were sighted around the Red Ridge Mountains rencently. Witnesses reports many strange lights and flashes coming from the mountains that night, but the government assures all citizens of Alexandria that this was nothing more than a routine military exercise.

Arendt Speaks

The following missive is found nailed in several key points all over the city. It is apparently a missive from Warlord Arendt, commander of the forces that are marching on and are engaged in mighty battle with the nation of Rune.

Citizens of Alexandria.

Know first that I am Arendt. It is upon my shoulders that the Gods have, in their infinite wisdom and through the course of destiny, bestowed upon me the privledge and obligation to lead our mighty armies into battle with with Rune under the leadership of the so-called Parliament of the Magi.

Due to a lack of faith in the leadership of Alexandria, who cowers behind the walls of their Castellum and meddles in the affairs of nations which have no recourse against them, I have directly reached out to the people of Alexandria in the hopes their wisdom will allow them to see the proper course.

My grievances with the government of Alexandria are not grievances with it's people, for whom those of Dran and Alexandria have a great deal more in common with than they may realize. We have both persevered in the face of treachery, both stood against the darkness, and both sought freedom from those who would control us. Both have stood with honor and determinaion in the face of overwhelming odds and roared defiance against destiny itself when fate conspired to destroy it.

There are, however, grievances against the government and ruling council of the Alexandros region. I shall list them and ask the people to consider them.

1) The Ruling Council of Alexandria recently reactivated, during a period of great madness, the so-called 'Planar Disjunction Cannon'. Since it's reactivation, the Council has fired this destructive weapon not once, but twice.

2) The so-called Azure Queen, a spirit of madness, was inhabiting the city at that time. Only the mad would think the reactivation of such a Kulthian weapon would be wise, let alone to use it. It is a sign of a lack of belief in the people of the city's strength to defend themselves from all comers that they would claim this is for defense. And we both know Alexandrians are stronger than that.

3) We ask you, then, to question why Alexandria has the Planar Disjunction Cannon in action and to fear for what damage it might cause. I am told that elementals appear in its vicinity in alarming regularity. The Council's mad grab for power puts the innocent at risk, where as in Dran, one can walk from one of the Khanate to another with nary a danger. Our strength sees to it. Your's would as well, if you were to embrace it.

4) Alexandria has taken a dragon knight onto it's lands, despite knowing that these so-called knights are honorless curs in the thrall of their dragon overlords. Man is not meant to be subject to monster or beast. Dragonier paid for this with the life of most of it's citizens. Do not allow the Council to fall under the sway of such a creature, nor to hide criminals from Dran's hand of justice. We ask you, civilians of Alexandria, to pressure your council. Turn over the Dragon Knight to us so that we may verify that she is the one we seek. If she is not, you have my word that no harm will come to her by my hand or order. We have reason to believe that the Dragon Knight, this /criminal/ has been allowed in with the full knowledge of the Alexandrian government. They hide a fugitive from justice, and why? What /reason/ could your Council have to do this thing? Ask them. See how they respond.

5) The diplomatic mission of Alexandria to Dran was nothing more than a pretext. They sought us out in the name of Peace, and gracious and honored as we are, we allow them to parley, without fear of a repeat of history. They attempted to assassinate us and, when that failed on account of our wisdom and preperation, attempted to flee, as honorless dogs always shall, into the hands of those who might shelter them in Rune. We immediately launched our invasion and laid low your 'diplomatic mission' that was not. Such an affront can not be allowed to pass without punishment. Your government meddles and then hides behind others who will need to shed blood for their crimes, scuttling our ongoinbg negotations with Rune for recompense over the death done in their name and Dran does not forget. This war is on the hands of the government's of Rune and Alenxandria.

6) We do not declare war on you, people of Alexandria, as we've no wish to shed the blood of a strong and honorable people for whom we have more in common than they may realize. The strength of Dran will stand with it's people should they wish to take action and replace their leadership. Should, however, the people of Alexandria choose hostility and belligerance in defense of Rune, we will act. All who oppose our justice shall drown in a tide of blood and iron. We will have justice.

7) Heth. Know that we have another reason for striking Rune. In it's vaults, Rune has a great many magical artifacts and powers which it has witheld out of 'wisdom'. Cowardice, I say. The power of Rune could've been turned to save many Dragonieri lives, but they were deadlocked in pathetic debates over 'procedure'. How many /more/ Dragonieri lives could've been saved had the wizards of Rune been willing to risk their use? We will take this power of Rune, and it's might, and turn it towards Dragonier and do battle with Heth. This I promise. No more will the mighty hide in their towers and declare it wisdom when they do nothing. The elves would have you believe we have squandered an age of man. I say nay! The age of MIGHT will begin with our hands! I call on all who seek justice and to defeat the darkness of this world to stand with me.

ANGORON and KOR shall GUIDE OUR HANDS.

For victory and honor.

ARENDT

Responses to Arendt

Jeor

Any who frequent the gambling dens, bars or training arena will have a hard time not overhearing a boisterous giantborn in finery named Jeor. Comments include the following:

"Ardent is a coward! He openly admits his fear of the spell cannon and the good peoples of the city. He would try and compliment us and insult us all in the same sentence. Hes a small dog with a very loud bark who simply wants to add more problems to the ones we have." r r Anyone who wishes to delve further into these opinions or wager some gold on cards can speak with Jeor.

Fa'lere

You dare invoke the name of Angoron, when you restrict the freedom of another country? Invoke the name of the strongest of the gods, to strike down people clearly incapable of defending themselves, not once...but twice. You say we are a strong and honorable people when, before that, you accuse the ruling coucil, as well as the rest of Alexandria by proxy, of cowering behind it's walls!

Who are the real cowards here?

It is clearly not Alexandria. They have clearly more strength that Arendt to even seek peaceful negotiations in the first place. Alexandria opened their hand to Dran, and Arendt for peace. Instead it was met with a closed fist. Only a TRUE coward attacks when someone offers peace.

ARENDT SPITS IN THE FACE OF ANGORON WITH HIS LIES!

Azog

A rebuttal to Arendt's posting is placed by several of them. The first is nailed deeply, a few of the rest are stuck with glue, possibly by hired poster hangars. The text is almost certainly that of a hired scribe.

"The words of Arendt of Dran have some lies to them, and that calls the truth of the other words into question. But some things may be true, and we of Alexandria are owed answers.

It is said that the Dragon Knight slew the Warlord of Dran, Arendt's predecessor, under a flag of parley. This action is contrary to honor and has not been disavowed by the Dragon Knight. This story has been told by many sources, and none have denied it. The truth of this matter is of importance because many of Arendt's actions would be justified by revenge for that treachery, if it is true.

I do know that the diplomatic mission to Dran was not pretext. It was foolish, shortsighted, ignorant of Dranei honor, and effectively meaningless even beyond the events that transpired, but it was not a pretext for treachery. And I know this because I was there. The Alexandrian diplomat was killed in lieu of the Dragon Knight, who would not allow justice to be done where all can see. However, the airship was taken by Arendt's order; his troops were not sent to stop it but were aboard as passengers, flying under an Alexandrian flag to catch Rune at unawares. Arendt's accusation that the government meddles in foreign affairs and hides behind adventurers who shed blood for them is true, though it is not relevant to the issue.

The statement that the war is on the hands of Alexandria is of course propaganda as much as the peace attempt was, and just as meaningless. Dran's war is a war of conquest and honor, but Arendt does not believe Alexandria understand Dranei honor, and I think he is right in that. So these words may be his way of offering peace with the rest of the city once the Dragon Knight is brought to justice.

So, if the Dragon Knight will stand up rather than hide behind Alexandria, who suffers for her alleged actions, then the truth of matters may be seen and judged by those of honor. Only when that is settled may Arent be dealt with justly."

Svarshan

Underneath some of these fliers, a second one is posted. The writing is shaking but carefully done. The style looks slightly Myrrish though only nominally. It reads:

The mouth of Arendt speaks, and says that Dran wishes to punish Dragonier.

They say Dragonier dishonored them.

Yet, Dragonier is dead. We see with our own eyes this truth. Its people starve. Its children cry out in blood and terror. They walk our streets as skeletons without names or homes.

Dran has had its retribution. It has won utter destruction of its enemy, its enemies' children. It has won utter destruction now and for the future. The children of these children shall have no home and no people.

Yet perversely, it still hungers. Arendt -craves-.

Caracoroth must speak from the maw of Arendt. For when he speaks, Arendt's hunger knows no bounds and its truth lies before us in its baldfaced starkness.

Arendt, we name you the Hungry Maw, who seeks the blood of children. You bear the fire of the Blood Wolf in your gaze and you seek to devour the world around you. You wear the lust of Kor and the guidance of Hunger.

Beneath it is signed, in reddened ink: 'And all shall belong to the jaws of Caracoroth, the eternal hunger. His ache knows no bounds; may all the nations of man be crushed beneath his jaw and digested unto his stomach. Red oblivion awaits them.' - The Book of Hunger, year 014, writ during the Years of the Sword

Crow

(Posted in a few public places, written on simple paper without decoration)

Citizens of Alexandria,

You probably don't know me. To some, I'm a familiar face. To most, I'm a stranger in your city who follows strange ways many consider outdated or mere superstition. That's fine. All I ask of you is your time, and simple consideration.

Many words have been said by Arendt and others in regards to the actions taking place outside of Alexandria. I won't take the time to repeat them here. You already know what's said.

What you might not have considered is this: War is ugly. This is a fact of life that many are familiar with. Some of you have probably even served in a conflict of some nature, and have a firsthand understanding of exactly what is meant. The fact that we are on the precipice of engaging a foe that is intelligent, determined, and powerful only adds to the potential for ruin, should we engage this hastily.

Alexandria was not involved in this in the beginning, from what I've come to understand. It was brought into this by the actions of others. We were not given a choice in the matter then. But we have a choice to make now.

Alexandria already suffers greatly. As a caretaker of the land, my first duty is to -the land-. Not to those of a political affiliation, or those of a particular religious ideology. And I ask you now to consider the consequences for -the land- should Alexandria engage this man.

The Felwood is a growing threat, a place of chaos and disorder that seeks to spread and continue twisting the existence of the land around it. It's been kept in check by the diligent efforts of those like myself, those who take an interest in making sure that this affliction doesn't spread. The strength of the natural world around it seems to be one of the things that keep it from growing.

But that world is now being threatened with war. With smoke and fire, sword and blood, chaos and madness. These are the things that feed the wounds created in nature. These are the things that could cause its growth to become unchecked. And that's only one of the many slings and arrows that could befall this land if we go to war.

I'm not saying that those who believe we should go to war are wrong. I'm not saying that those who don't support war are right. What I'm asking of you is this: consider, for a moment, if the problems of strangers are worth the risk to your land. This land. Your -children's land-. The Warlord is described as a monster, but the man is clearly not mad. He's cunning, and ruthless, and determined. He's raised points that should be considered before a decision is made, answers that must be found before you can, in good concience, decide if the risk is worth the reward.

I implore you not to act rashly in this. Weigh this decision carefully. The future of many generations could be at stake, and in the years to come, they will ask the most important question: Why is the world we've been given in the state that it's in?

How do you want to be able to answer?

With All Respect,

Druid Crow

Ssylrath

Posted in response to one of the Warlord's messages:

Which is it? Is Heth the prime threat that Rune should have been fighting to save Dragonier from, or is he a just punishment for Dragonier's sins? How is invading Rune, the prime target of Heth's depredations outside Dragonier, just retribution for an act taken by an agent of the former Dragonier government?

If Heth is such a threat then ally with Rune against him. Bring your combined arms to bear and Heth will be defeated. No, instead you strengthen Heth by trying to destroy his enemy.

Ssylrath of Am'shere

Stjepan

It seems that someone has taken to scrawling graffiti on Arendt's posters, circling point five: ARENDT, YOU TRY TO USE BIG WORDS BUT FAIL. THE APOSTROPHE DOES NOT PLURALIZE. ANGORON DEMANDS RIGOUR AND PROPER PUNCTUATION.

It's not hard to figure out who is doing this, really, since the artiste is a very large giant born who writes in big block letters.

Colrick

Alexandrians, Arendt talks to us as if we were children who know nothing of what we face, but we know all too well.

It was only decades ago that we lived under the tyranny of an invader, the hated Witch Queen Altima. She conquered our land and for years we suffered under her brutal rule. A generation of Alexandrians was born in servitude, forced to watch the public executions of their loved ones, until our struggle eventually regained our freedom at great cost.

Not long after breaking free of our chains we witnessed Sendor fall prey to the desires of another conqueror. Having felt the lash of the whip on our backs, we stood up and marched to war so that our friends would never have to endure what we did. Our triumph ensured Sendor's peace and prosperity.

Now Arendt sets his eyes upon Rune, claiming his war is just, but we know the truth. We have first-hand experience with conquerors. We know what he is, we know what he intends to do, and we will not stand idly by. We have already shouted out our denial twice and raised our weapons against his kind, it is time to do it again.

Tatyannah

There's various graffiti from the same hand that says either 'Shut up, Arendt, you jackass. You know, if you'd stopped before the bit about the diplomatic mission, you'd have gained more support, but you're a moron who overreaches', 'Masterly, I'm going to find you and kill you' and there might be the occasional 'I am coming for your gold'.

Jareth

Overheard at the Wayfarer's while dining and drinking with friends, someone asks Jareth for his opinion on the Dranei invasion of Rune and Arendt's claims.

Downing his ale, Jareth wipes his mouth with the back of his hand and leans forward a little in his chair to say,

"I have an easy solution. One that can save a lot of bloodshed and lies. Arendt should come meet me on the battlefield. No Dragon Riders. No Spell Cannon. No shambling undead. No wizards of Rune. Just him, me and our steel. Save the war chests from being diminished in any way."

This is followed by a call for another pitcher and more of whatever is being roasted over the fire.

Bor

Overheard in conversation amongst the citizens that traverse the Temple District is talk a scene that happened earlier today. Bor, one of the rare Giantborn Chosen of Daeus, was seen reading one of the missives posted for Arendt. The few brave souls willing to speak to the Giantborn, a race known to have helped the Dran in the past, asked him what he thought of the War Lords proclamation.

"The gods provide guidance to everyone. It's not often they speak with us directly. Angoron uses his Strength to protect the people. Not to make people do what he thinks is right. This isn't Angoron's way. The Iron Behemoth won't be pleased. Someone will need to speak to the followers of Angoron to remind them. Know that there are those that will stand to protect instead of make War. I will stand to protect those that can't protect themselves."

In after thought, the folks that were actually nearby during the conversation will add that he said something like, "The Words of Man rarely are what the gods tell him, but what he wanted to hear for himself."

Ceres

It takes a little time, and more than a little effort, but a new song starts to make the rounds, first in the taverns and inns where Alexandria's Adventurers spend much of their time. Then it spreads, often as not by a certain adventuring bard, then by others. Not her usual style, not up to her usual polish, but then - consider the subject matter.

'Now Smackwater Arendt, he had an dran army....

Cause he... was in the mood for little confrontation

He just let it all hang loose

He didn't care about the truth

He wanted to give all the abuse

So he started a war with the wizards' Rune.

You can't talk to a man

With an army in his hand

Army in his hand.

Now Big Jareth the hero stood for law and order

He called for the blackguard to come and meet at the border

Now from his bulldog mouth

As he met the man up south

Came the cry, we got to ride

Clean up the 'side for our friends and neighbours

You can't talk to a man

When he already understands

No, no, no, no, no, no

The battle was in all the papers

Cause you know, he beat ole Arendt right then instead of later

You know the countries were quite pleased

'Cause the tyrant had been seized

And on a whole, it was a very good year

For the Adventurers Guild

You know, you know, you can't talk to a man

With an army in his hand

Army in his hand.

Smackwater Arendt, yeah

Smackwater Arendt bought an army

Yeah, Smackwater Arendt bought an army

Smackwater Arendt, yeah

Smackwater Arendt, yeah

Talkin' about Smackwater Arendt, yeah

Talkin' about Smackwater Arendt, oh

Talkin' about Arendt and his army

Talkin' about Smack, talkin' about Arendt

Smackwater Arendt, yeah.'

Mikilos

Posted next to several posts made by Arendt. Where room can be found amoung other replies.

The previous message uses a great many words, many of them big words, in order to confuse the issue. Allow me, humble readers, to translate for you:

'Me Arendt. Me Big Guy. You pay attention to me. Me not like Alexandria leaders. Alexandira people okay. Me prove:

1) Spell Cannon bad.

2) Blue Bitch bad.

3) Spell cannon still bad.

4) Dragon Knight bad.

5) Talking bad, when not say what me want to hear.

6) Me think you okay, but you not do what me want, me hit you.

7) Wizards dumb. Me smart. Me take wizard power, use like smart.

Blah blah, me big man.

ARENDT'

Karelin

Another response to Arendt's posters appears at the Arena, both in handbills and as an insert to program guides as well. Eventually, they're used to wrap finger foods, too.

ARENDT: LIMP WARLORD OF DRAN

Another lick-spittle all-conquering warlord is waving his three-inch quill all over Alexandria's wall. He's not the first and he's certainly not the most creative. The logic in his argument is weak and flaccid, puffed up by big words that have more place in an arena for entertainment's sake than out of the mouth of someone sending people off to fight and die.

I should I know, I do it for real.

He implied that we're crazy for using the weapons at our disposal to defend ourselves. It's not crazy; as any true worshipper of Kor would know -- it's only good sense. He claims to be saving us from Heth by striking down those who know how to use the tools at their disposal. This? This is crazy. Maybe the Azure Queen snuck into his tent when he was fantasizing about being a real warrior and planted this fantasy in his head. Leave the fighting to the soldiers and the wizarding to the wizards, especially against an enemy as strong as Heth. He conveniently ignores the threat of Skald to his left flank. He is going to need all of Angoron's protection, because Kor is going to toss him in the gutters for his abject ignorance of the arts of war.

Arendt is an embarrassment to The Warlord and by Kor Makar's holy names, not deserving of the hand he used to blaspheme their names.

Karelin Andarin, Warbringer of Solmnus, Hero of Blar and Arendt's Mother

Tariday, Hattanan 13, 1016

Treaty Signing

It would appear that negotiations between the Council of Alexandria and the Empress of the Sith-Makar has gone well. There are rumors circulating that an official treaty of some kind will be signed any day now and it will no doubt be accompanied by spectacle and celebration. No doubt that Alexandria is in a unique position to gain access to such an alliance, given that the lone permanent gateway to the land of Am'shere lays within their territory.

Still, one must wonder what the terms are, and what exactly the treaty will entail. No doubt a public announcement will be due soon, and one can not ignore the political signifance of such a treaty being concluded within days of Alexandria's announcement of support for Rune.

Eliday, Hattanan 11, 1016

Executed

Rumors are coming down from those with an ear on the council, which has spent the better part of the last few days in meetings to discuss the situation between Dran and Rune, that the ambassador to Dran was /personally executed/ by the warlord, a fellow by the name of Arendt, in charge of the invasion of Rune. This shocking news is leaving many Alexadrians enraged, and anti-Dran sentiment is beginning to form.

A statement from the Council on the matter is due any day.

Shev: Wanted Dead or Alive

The merchant known as 'Shev' has had a bounty issued for him. He is wanted dead or alive, and is responsible for the murder of several contractees to the Guild of Explorers and members of the City Watch. Formerly a merchant specializing in the acquisition of rare goods of a legitimate stripe in Alexandria, a reliable source indicated his involvement in at least one murder and possibly others, as well as tax evasion. An attempt to arrest him was made and several guardsmen and a few assisting contractors from the Guild of Explorers met their untimely end at the hands of his clockwork defenses in his manor home in upscale Upper Alexandria, as well as others wounded and killed by a bomb he left to destroy evidence in his study. It is believed he is at large within the city and security has been tightened at all enrances and exits in an effort to locate him, not that that wouldn't be happening any ways with talk of war.

A poster bearing his likeness has been posted in numerous public spaces. The City Watch reccomends all civilians avoid contact with, or offering any assistance to, this fugitive and that if sighted you are to contact the City Watch immediately.

A Statement from the Council of Alexandria

A Statement by the Council of Alexandria:

The news from Rune is grave and true: Our diplomatic envoy was mercilessly slain by the Warlord Arendt under flag of truce in a misguided effort at vengeance over the death of their own previous Emperor at the hands of a Dragon Knight some years prior. It is our belief that, due to the presence of Dragon Knight Anise and her Silver in Alexandria and the refuge we have offered her, that some memebrs of the Dran Khanate have taken to the mistaken belief we have share some culpability for what happened in our absence. Had Dran a legitimate grievance with us, rather than naked ploys to give it's actions a veil of legitimacy, it could have approached us to discuss the matter of the Dragon Knight and challenged her asylum or asked to have her face Dranei justice. Of course, to do that would require evidence and materials which Arendt does not possess, nor has a true interest in.

It has not does this and will not do this since these claims are nothing but an attempt to grant himself legitimacy in the eyes of his followers. It is the actions of a murderer, a thug, and a coward with no honor to speak of. We condemn his actions in the strongest possible words and hope to see this criminal brought to face the justice he so richly deserves.

Thusly, the ruling Council has offered to Rune our assistance.

Rune has said that they will not be invoking our treaty of mutual defense, a decision which we respectfully acknowledge even as we wish for justice, even in the face of relentlessly provocation from Dran in the murder of Ambassador Vril and the loss of his entire diplomatic mission. The Wisdom of Animus is still present in this time, as Parliament spoke eloquently of the need, even in the face of potential destruction, to continue the effort to contain Heth.

Even so, we will continue to offer and all material support which they request from us, even as Alexandros remains neutral in this conflict between the forces under the leadership of Arendt and the nation of Rune.

But the Wisdom of Animus spoke truly and now we must turn towards the other who are watching: Know that the Murderer of Dragonier waits for no one. As Dran weakens Rune and washes itself in an ocean of blood, it leaves a greater threat, and a greater honor, unchallenged. Dragonier must be contained and the threat which Heth poses to life must be checked. It has brought together those who were once enemies in a combined purpose.

Know now that Bludgun and Aleaxndria have signed a treaty of mutual support in the effort to contain the threat of Dragonier, a treaty which Rune has also joined in. We would extend an offer to all right-thinking Dranei who recognize what the true threat is, rather than chase the ghosts of years past, to join us in a quest that will surely be blessed by the Gods.

May the Hymn fill every heart with wisdom and courage.

CALDOR METHIS, COUNCILMAN.

(the rest of the council's names, including Rawyn Telenils, are signed beneath.)

Kesenday, Hattanan 9, 1016

Strange Rumors and Airships

Strange rumors are filtering down to Alexandria that the Alexandrian diplomatic airship that crashed inside the borders of Rune was actually carrying a large number of soldiers from Dran Empire. Was Alexandira involved in some form of double dealing with Rune and the Dran Empire? What sort of game was the ruling council playing? Even more disturbing is the rumor that the Dran warriors aboard the airship were armed with blades of Alexandrian origin.

The ruling council has not yet issued a statement on the matter of Rune or Dran, but one is no doubt coming soon.

Gilday, Hattanan 7, 1016

Initial Reports

Rumor is filtering down from Rune that fierce fighting has broken out along the northern and eastern borders of Rune. While badly outnumbered by the invading forces and weakened by Heth's minions, Rune is still a powerful center of magical learning and seems to be holding it's own for the moment.

Alexandria has issued a statement of support for Rune. High level negotiations are said to be occurring, though it seems unlikely that any other power will enter the war on Rune's behalf. It is widely supposed in some quarters that the wizards, being wizards, should be able to take care of this on their own with their fireballs and what have you. More quietly, there are few that want to risk drawing Dran's attention, and it's military juggernaut, to themselves.

Rumors also indicate that the airship that was sent to Dran in the early days before the war began has crashed inside Rune's border.

Vardamen Responses

The agents of Vardama have been heavily involved in investigations into Dragonier so far. However, with Heth still unbreathing, the rumored ties between Vardama the Gray Lady and Serriel the Shining Dawn seem to have tightened. More Lancers may be seen among the crypt entrances, and it's suggested that Vanguards and laymen have been seen in increased comings and goings among the temples.

A number of the additional guards and workmen are also arvek. This number is not exclusive, though it is biased. These are sturdy men and women pulled from the renmants and memory of recent wars. Ever since their freedom from the tyrrany of Thul (who even now ravages Dragonier), many arvek have borne the colors of the Gray Lady and the Shining Dawn proudly, and these temples have offered them homes.

Heth's threat, though, have caused some to have taken to capping a single tusk in brilliant and shining gold.

OOC: This is primarily a call-out to illustrate the growing ties between the two faiths and as opportunity for RP. Please make of it how you like, and according to your own tales and stories.

Eliday, Hattanan 4, 1016

No Surprise

With war between Dran and Rune on the horizon, or so it would seem, it should be no surprise that Charn's military continues it's mobilization alongs its borders on the northern frontier of the empire. Reports from Veyshan and from airships that travel near that border say that the Stygian Empire is putting on quite the display. There can be little doubt that this is directed towards Myrrdion and Alexandria in a calculated move to encourage them to sit out the war to the north.

Eliday, Bernfleur 27, 1016

Not Secret Enough

Despite the best efforts of the government in trying to keep it secret, rumors circulate that several Alexandrian airships were sighted heading in the direction of Dragonier recently. Most of them were filled, not with weapons and armor, but supplies for construction of some kind. It's hard to say what's going on, but it's clear that, even with Rune and Dran on the brink of war, that issue of Dragonier is one that is not to be ignored.

Posted by Whirlpool

Alexandrian Council Meets with Sith-Makar Empress

It would appear that negotiations between the Sith-Maker Empress from beyond the portal to Am'shere and the ruling council of the city of ALexandria are continuing. Representatives from other local powers, such as the Mythwood and the gnomish town of Happy Valley, have been witnessed coming to the Castellum as well, no doubt to greet the apparent leader of the Sith-Makr tribal confederation.

It is said that the talks will soon be pasued for the Empress to make a trip to a site called 'Mictlan'. There's no clear indication /when/ that will happen, but the city guard does appear to be on high alert and with more boots on the ground than usual.

Posted by Whirlpool

Eliday, Bernfleur 20, 1016

Farmer, Dead

"Y'hear about old man Woodridge?"

"What, that skirt-chasing coot with the farm?"

"Yep. Hear tell he got th'crotch rot and it killed him."

"Well, hell. Poor old bastard. Guess his son'll inherit th'land now, if he ever gets back."

Posted by Fishbelly

Korday, Bernfleur 10, 1016

The Sewers, Glue, and Professor Fizzlefuse

A party of adventurers from the Explorer's Guild emerged from the sewers late last night. They brought with them a human and what looked at first to be a battered door. The man was partially bound with glue and alternated ranting and mumbling something about 'Fizzlefuze's Doom'. The 'door' seemed to have tiny limbs and face and also talked. Many onlookers took one look before uttering 'mimic', often in weary tones. Both door and man are now thought to be residing in the city jails for 'interfering with vital city services'.

The adventurers were covered in an assortment of acid burns, bruises and dried glue. The Khazad had no boots. And all were accompanied by the distinctive scent of Otyugh.

OOC: see Bennett, Djelka, Brianna, Zoob or Duncan if you want to hear more. For some reason. :)

Posted by Duncan

Gilday, Bernfleur 9, 2016

The Sith-Makar Delegation

Since her arrival last week, the so-called Empress of the Sith remains in the security of the Castellum for high level negotiations of some kind. Much of her retinue remains encamped beyond the city walls. Rumors emanating from the Castellum are indicating that, once the negotiations are concluded, she will be heading to a holy site called 'Mictlan', as well as paying a visit to the Dragon Knight.

Posted by Whirlpool

Eliday, Eatonis 30, 1016

Dranei "Diplomacy"

It would appear Alexandria is not the only country using diplomacy to their advantage.

Dran and the Oruch city-state of Adomar have a long history of conflict, but also a mutual warrior culture and belief in 'strength' and 'honor'.

Rumor has it that several emissaries from the Dran warlords assembling along Rune's border were sighted in the city-state of Adomar, meeting with its leaders, no doubt trying to sway the Oruch to their side. If they are able to do so, the nation of Rune will be in great danger.

Posted by Whirlpool

Sith-Makar Empress

It starts as a mere whisper. A dignary from the tribes of the Sith-Makar in Am'shere is on their way towards Alexandria from the deep jungle, across the portal that exists outside Alexandria.

From there, the rumors escalates. Not a dignary. Not a mere ambassador.

No, it is now being said, across the city, that the so-called 'Empress' of the Sith-Makar of Am'shere is on her way to Alexandria for the first visit between the city's leadership and the tribes of the Sith-Makar that reside on the other side of the Am'shere portal in the Alexandrian countryside.

Posted by Whirlpool

Eliday Eatonis 30, 1016

Freed Slaves

Rumor has it that a pair of new-model War Golems(K-8 and Protectron) were freed from slavery imposed by their creators. Altar, Zoob, Kiroth, Verna, Duncan and Hassan were spotted escorting them to Alexandria, where they were deemed free and their creators, Fizzlefuse and Forgefire are being sued for back pay. Apparently they had been making the War Golems work without wages for far too long, and the precise cost will be determined by the Alexandrian legal system, but it is sure to be expensive.

Posted by Altar

Ceriday Eatonis 29, 1016

The Journey of the Enigmatic Magical T

Word has finally reached Alexandria that 6 brave adventurers escorted a Quad of Bards out of the city. These bards known as Rodrick, Raven, Thomas and Wanderer, and were known for their snarky witty sarcasm comedy. The adventurers guarded the bards on their trip to their next gig. On the way they were attacked by dire boars, huge owl bears, and a tricky green hag. Or so the rumors have been saying. Interested in the full story contact: Zippo, Duncan, Lorien, Altar, Mogrinaar or Rhar.

Posted by Cesran

Gilday Eatonis 26, 1016

Time Lost and Canon Fodder

I still don't know what happened for sure. We were sent for help to give some aid and relief to a group of soldiers, but nothing could have prepared us for what we found. It had been less than a week since aid was requested but when we got there, the soldiers were claiming it had been a month. And they all looked like they had been through that much without aid. Something having to do with magic more than likely.

Then these soldiers attacked, they had guns, now I know why I hate guns. We fought them off, but then they brought in this ship, though it wasn't no normal ship. It had wagon wheels and barding like a horse on it. It had these huge guns on top, maybe even a cannon. Of course being the foolish ones we are, we charged the ship, cannon wagon...tank? It was close but I fell to the firepower of the vessel. I remember waking up some time after. What happened exactly? Was it all a dream?

Posted by Aurala

Tariday Eatonis 25, 1016

Tides of War

Some probably saw it coming.

With Rune weakened by the most recent attack on it, rumors are spreading far and wide from the land of Dran that warleaders and their warbands are converging upon Dran's border with Rune.

Many years ago, during ALexandria's time in the Mists, the armies of Dran marched upon Rune. Hopelessly out numbered, the wizard nation was still reeling from the loss of the protection of their patron God in Animus, they never the less put up a valiant, if ultimately losing defense against the aggressive, conquest-minded Dran.

It was only the intervention of a Dragon Knight, who attempted to negotiate a settlement between the nations to preserve the peace, that saved Rune.

The nameless Dragon Knight and her dragon, some say it was a silver, some say it was a gold, approached the war leader of Dran's armies under the flag of truce and made the case for peace.

When the belligerant Dran warlord would not listen, it is said, the dragon struck him down in a great blast of fire. It was an act of treachery that enraged many but it was one that ended the conflict, as the Dranei lapsed into fighting amongst themselves to claim the role of Warleader. Ever since then, the warbands of Dran have hungered for revenge and to find a leader capable of uniting enough of them to finsih what they started that many years ago and to exact the pound of flesh from Rune that they can no longer exact from Dragonier.

If a true leader should emerge from this convergence, a war with Dran that Alexandria may be pulled into could be on the horizon.

Posted by Whirlpool

Variday Eatonis 24, 1016

Charnese Military Maneuvers

It comes as no surprise to anyone invested in geopolitics that Charn has begun amassing its forces on its own borders for latge scale war games and military maneuvers. It's a show of strength in the wake of Alexandria's firing of the spell cannon. These large scale maneuvers are expected to last through the next month.

Posted by Whirlpool

Orphanage

After a recent excursion to deal with creatures of Fey Origins, an orphanage was given a Dolly and told it must never leave. Shortly after mischief was afoot, but the children seem to enjoy their new..Leperchaun protectors? Well, lets hope they do! Rumors accuse Vuk of being the one to sneak the dolly to the Orphanage and being convinced the Leperchauns would never let the children come to harm!

Posted by Vuk

Metal Trees

Watch out! There's traps in the forest. Moving traps! At least that's what Rhar warns anybody out in the northern wilds around Wilderness Pointe. Metal traps with spears on ropes. Other ones with giant claws.

It looks like they came out of a giant metal tree that fell down. A tree with a giant squirrel hole in the side. Instead of giant squirrels, there were more traps sleeping inside.

Rhar and Gurr, her wolf friend, were bloodied and broken, so it's apparent she didn't imagine it. Who knows? Giant squirrels could be out there, too!

Posted by Vuk

Korday, Eatonis 20, 1016

Locker Room Rumor

A story circulates though certain circles, apparently first told in the Arena locker room by a well known golem.

"So the hole into the place was actually part of a stabilized planar rift to an as yet unknown dimension. ...don't look at me like that, I can use big words. Anyway, started with the regular sort of weird stuff you see in Kulthian ruins. Gears and bones and lots of dust. Old holding cells, one with some weird mutant blob thing.

Then came the Void guys. Like, flesh and artifice and magic and smokey shadows all meshed into one. Creepy. Yes, -I- called them creepy. Guess the first two were workers or something, they went down pretty easy.

Then the guards showed up. I can hold my own in a fight, but these guys were pretty badass. Some sorta gun thing, shot like these weird little energy eels or something, crawled inside you and swam around, trying to lay eggs or whatever. I mean, my insides are a pretty nasty place, so you know the little things were hardcore.

We got out of there. I don't like running from a fight, but I like dying even less. They didn't follow. Maybe they couldn't go though the planar rift. We didn't have a good way to seal it, so just piled a bunch of stuff on top to slow them down.

Really weird part? When we came back out, it was actually -before- we went in. Sorta hoped to meet myself on the way back, but since I didn't meet myself on the way in, maybe I couldn't.

So the Upper Ups at the Guild didn't find anything when they took a look. I don't know, time shifted; I guess that's a really good way to hide your stuff. But I'm telling you guys, if ever you meet one of those Void Soldier things, take it seriously, they're Bad News."

Posted by Munch

Kulthian Ruins?

At least, that is what Verna , Munch , Gragnar and Brom were saying when they returned from them. Contacts within the various Guilds and some temples, and general street talk. Given the reports, it should not be surprising some of the more experienced members of these Orders and Guilds went to the location..and found nothing but a burnt glade and some scattered stones and collapsed wooden hovels. Undead were found in a small number, some given ancient, but once well crafted weapons. The only thing that stood out was a shattered stone shaped like a tear with runes in an unknown tongue, with a crushed artifice powered arm sticking out from under it. Possibly Kulthian in design.

Posted by Vuk

Variday, Eatonis 17, 1016

New Food

From within the halls where the ever-hungry adventurers congregate. Someone ordered a late night snack that looked tasty. Another saw it and asked for the same. A third made a suggestion to avoid confusion. Now that snack spreads like wildfire through Alexandria. It is a triple bacon lettuce onion (gherkins optional) sandwich, called the "Sandywich". No "t" to avoid confusion, insult and en-mazement. Hence the onions.

Variday, Eatonis 17, 1016

Anklar Sighting

Once again, Anklar Vanche, that horrible wastrel, has been seen touring Alexadria's pubs. Most recently he was seen at the Wayfarer's Inn, getting utterly sloshed. The /scandal/. Such behavior from the heir to a Myrrish countship is considered humiliating to his father.

Variday, Eatonis 17, 1016

Dragonieri Reactions

While word that the City of Alexandria is taking point on addressing the matter of the fallen nation of Dragonier is welcomed by the Dragonieri refugees living in the city, many of them seems to view it with a little outright cynicism. A sort of 'we'll believe it when we see things actually happening' point of view. There is also concern that this will beget the wholesale looting of Dragonier's 'unique cultural history'. Some speculate and whisper that this is an excuse for the other nations to shamelessly loot the lost treasures of the nation... the ones that haven't been destroyed by Heth, anyways.

Eliday, Eatonis 16, 1016

Spell Cannon After Effects

The Spell Cannon's firing is accompanied by the now traditional warning that one should watch for disturbances in the elemental forces in the countryside around Alexandria. The planar disjunction affect may have let some loose. The Council has issued a warning that if you see one, you are to contact the Guild of Explorers.

Eliday, Eatonis 16, 1016

The Spell Cannon Fires

With word of strange events in the Vast conspiring, the massive Planar Disjunction Cannon swivels in its housing in the great fortification that holds it in the Red Ridge Mountains. With a blazing, blinding white light, the cannon /fires/ upon a location in the direction of the Vast.

The City Council offers no other comment at this time.

Eliday, Eatonis 16, 1016

Kulthis!

A gathering numbering hundreds in The Vast was nearly wiped out to the last soul when the supposed coming of the gods was instead a Cult Legion. They came with out warning, demanding the Gods surrender to their will, and any who joined them would share enlightenment. But..why did one of their Aetheric Warships have the mark of Kulthus, and how did they travel safely through The Void and spill into this world? Several vessels entered our reality, and who knows what else could truly glimpsed on the other side of the rift they tore open!

Ceriday, Eatonis 15, 1016

Parade

Though it is in the early planning stages, several of the wealhtier Dragonieri are planning a march with the refugee populace through Alexandria to show their support for claiming back their lost homeland and to demand aggressive action against the blight infesting the fallen country.

With tensions rising, many are concerned that violence could erupt.

Ceriday, Eatonis 15, 1016

Half Dragons Aplenty

The Half-Dragon symbols have begun to slow in their appearance. Whatever point was being made with them has now clearly been made.

Many of them are now being washed away, either through magic or through scrunch brush.

Whispers in the underworld, however, indicate that a new presence is definitely continuing to make itself felt in the seedier portions of Alexandria, primarily operating in locales populated by Dragonieri refugees.

Korday, Eatonis 6, 1016

Anklar Vanche, Trouble Magnet

Just a day after turning up alive in Alexandira, when he was feared missing, Anklar Vanche was the subject of a kidnapping attempt by unknown individuals. A fight broke out outside a dockside tavern and he was nearly whisked away! Some speculate it has something to do with internal Myrrish politics, others wonder at ransom, and still more suggest that it was Anklar's unpaid debts catching up with him. No matter what, the Count's son does appear to be quite the trouble magnet.

It was only the timely arrival of several adventurers -- some suggest too fortuious an arrival for them -- that spared the Count's son this indignity.

Tariday, Eatonis 4, 1016

Missing Wastrel Son turns Up Alive

The son of Counce Vanhce of Rosalia, a Myrrish noble with familial ties to Alexandria, has turned up alive and well back in the city. Rumor was brief that Anklar, the Count's heir, had gone missing but it would appear that these rumors were unfounded, as Anklar was soon seen hitting up the taverns of Alexandria and making a nuisance of himself all over the city. Some speculate that he was deliberately making himself seen, but most of that is dismissed as silly -- everyone knows that Anklar is a no-good indulgent wastrel who fritters away his money almost constantly wherever he goes.

Variday, Eatonis 3, 1016

Public Meeting

The ruling council of Alexandria is announcing that there will be a series of public meetings conducted with various interest groups within the city relating to recent moves about the issues of Dragonier. One such meeting will be directed to the city's mercenary population, as they will no doubt have much a role to play in the coming days as the nation's attention pivots to dealing with the threat to civilization itself posed by Heth.

Variday, Eatonis 3, 1016

Dranei Ambassador?!

Today, an unusual figure was sighted leaving the chambers of the Alexandrian ruling council. A slender, cloaked figure apparently addressed the council and then departed, being seen on his way to the Arena accompanied by a much large figure. Apparently, the man in the scholar's robe was said to be an emissary from one of the more powerful Warlords of Dran and his business with the council had something to do with Dragonier.

Kesenday, Pryntar 28, 1016

Home Exorcised

Gathering together, a group of Vardamites, Clerics, Paladins and Monks, went into the home where undead have been known to plague it in the past few weeks. With guards outside to keep anyone from sneaking in and disrupting it, they performed a ritual to undo what was said to be a circle made for necromantic rituals. They all returned out, a few hours later, tired, but unscathed. Word is the family owning the home are free to return and ideally return to their daily lives.

Korday, Pryntar 27, 1016

Alexandrian Diplomats

It would appear that several diplomatic missions have been sent by Alexandria to the far corners of the world. To Veyshan, to Rune, to Dran, and on and on. No doubt adventurers will be called on to help guard some of these vital missions. It's likely that this has something to do with Dragonier.

Tariday, Pryntar 25, 1016

A Bright Spot in the Darkness

Until recently, few dared to set foot in Dragonier.

That seems to have changed.

The government of Alexandria took the lead on an initiative to strike into the borders of Dragonier and land a blow on the hordes of undead that roam the fallen kingdom. There once was a forest called the Groves of the Twin Hearts. Those hearts had been destroyed by the corruption of Heth. Now, it is said, that those hearts beat once more and the grove has been purified. The forest will once again be giving its gifts, solace, and security to those who seek it and will no doubt provide a useful refuge for those moving on the border of Dragonier.

It's not much, but it's a start in what will be the long battle to reclaim what Heth has taken.

(A big thanks to Hurricane for splitting running duties with me, and a thanks to Kerbasy, Jareth, Jibbom, Myrana, Oates, Halani, Cesran, Ceres, Tatyannah, Fishbelly, Elessa, Munch, Aurala, Thyrson, Aenyn and Ssylrath!)

Korday, Pyrntar 20, 1016

Cultist Changelings in our Midst!

Rumors come in about a cult of doppelgangers who worship a long-forgotten deity of the Void.

Two were found in a town northeast of Alexandria, having killed two apprentice blacksmiths and taken their places.

Korday, Pryntar 13, 1016

Lady Sandiel Pregnant?

Recently at a Gala, a well to do party and silent auction of some means, Jibbom was hearding carousing with guests and explaining to them on a recent trip with his beloved Lady Sandiel to the plane of 'Breathless Nights' and 'Sweet Tender Embraces' she found her self, as one may guess after such planar jaunts for wholesome recreations.. pregnant with twins.

Oh Jibbom what ever will you do?

Korday, Pryntar 13, 1016

Kegger Fest!

Today, Kegger Fest has started!

That means that all over the city, new types of booze are being introduced from far and wide. ALexandria, as a very cosmopolitan city, benefits greatly from it... as does the local economy, of course.

Farmers, Khazadi merchants, and more are all bringing their best brews to the table.

The city guard (all wincing, of course) is knuckling down in preparation for the inevitable trouble a town full of rowdy mercenaries and merchants is going to bring.

Gilday, Pryntar 12, 1016

Undead Rumors

Seems there has been a rash of undead in the city, all centered around one old house in the Lower District. Two calls have gone out to the Guild of Explorers and the Temple of Vardama for help, and it seems to be getting worse. The family is no longer living at the house, but haven't moved out, and the house appears to be on complete lock down after this second visit, and with a guard. The Temple of Vardama is scrambling a bit to deal with whatever problem has been discovered inside the house.

Variday, Pryntar 10, 1016

Althean Cloister

Several ALtheans have retreated into the church. Apparently, they are engaged in some kind of meditation or rite over the next several days. Something to do with the 'Foundation Stone' recovered from Dragonier to assist in the ritual exorcism of the Azure Queen, at least that's what the rumors are saying.

Ceriday, Pryntar 01, 1016

Black Markets Buzz...

Underground markets buzz with the word of a Dragoneri trinket, reportedly deeply historical and perhaps magical in nature. The specifics change from story-to-story but the basic message remains the same; Someone out there has an important piece of history.

Word seems to radiate from Goblintown.

Contact Younger for more information!

Kesenday, Vhast 31, 1016

Show of Force

The City Guard and militia -- and even adventurers -- have been brought out to patrol the city in the wake of the Feast of Darkness. This being a holy day dedicated to Maugrim, many people will not be conducting business or going about other affairs for fear of offending the Tyrant God, while others will carry on. Either way, the city government is taking no chances and intends to make it clear that no disruption or threat to the security of the city will be tolerated. It is oddly appropriate.

Kesenday, Vhast 31, 1016

Dragonieri Business Defaced

A dragonieri owned business, the Smiling Gnome General Store in the Lower Trade District, was defaced with crude slogans against the Dragonieri this morning. While efforts have been made to clean it up since then, the vandalized business is now shuttered.

This clearly points to some anti-dragonieri sentiment being stirred up in the wake of the 'half-dragons' being left in various locales about the city.

Variday, Vhast 27, 1016

Sewer Catastrophe Averted!

A strange rumbling sound was eminating from the sewers beneath the lower trade district of Alexandria. Brave adventurers were called in and sent beneath the sewers, where they apparently did battle with some kind of creature that was gumming up the works quite deliberately down there. Where it came from remains unclear, but the city of Alexandria owes a debt to these brave (and dirty) souls.

(Feel free to hassle Oates, Kravar, Jibbom, Leisel, Uarala and Tatyannah.)

Ceriday, Vhast 25, 1016

Shadow Boxing

In advance of his headbutting challenge Boshter was training some young warriors on the art of headbutting at the Festival Grounds. Fellow martial weapons aficionado, Azog was on hand to witness this lesson as was local wizard, Cesran. As the trio began to discuss the technique that Boshter was using, Azog doubtful of the prowess of the headbeat and Cesran, spewing confusing wizard terminology, they were suddenly attacked by three shadows. Azog and Boshter bravely stood their grounds as cowardly Cesran disappeared from sight. Demonstrating the superiority of the headbutt Boshter destroyed two of the shadow fiends while Azog with some very minor assistance from Cesran was able to banish the last fiend.

This is the story that's going around the Arena, Temple of Kor local taverns and anywhere that manly men gather to discuss the new of the day. (OOC: Talk to Boshter, Azog and/or Cesran for the full story)

Kesenday, Vhast 24, 1016

Dragon Knight Seen Again

The Dragon Knight and it's great, majestic silver dragon have once again been sighted. This time it would appear that both Dragon and Knight paid a visit to the Temple of Eluna. The Knight descended into the courtyard of the Temple, then left, flying back to the ruined fort that they have since made their home.

Gilday, Vhast 22, 1016

Jibbom-s-

Details remain vague, but reports confirm there to now be -two- Steel Von Ironblood, Bane of Night's running around. Or something. While tensions are high in certain areas, the Watch has yet to be mobilized on this spreading madness.

Tariday, Vhast 21, 1016

Hauntings in the City

A number of hauntings were reported across the city in recent days, with spooky activity becoming the latest topic of gossip. One family, as the story goes, had their house terrorized by the not-so-imaginary playmates of their son... flying books and phantom children made their lives miserable until a group of local adventurers reportedly drove the malevolent spirits out.

In possibly related ghost-chatter, the mansion which was the home for the auction some weeks back also seems to have fallen upon more haunted times. Furniture is said to move of its own accord, creaks and groans emanate throughout the hallways, and curtains blow and billow even in the absence of a breeze.

The local temples have gone on record to say that there is, in fact, not a widespread spectral outbreak in the city, and these are likely isolated incidents.

Gilday, Vhast 15, 1016

Dragonieri Images

Throughout the city, and especially in the lower parts where there are more refugees from Dragonier, various duplicated images of a dragon have been turning up on walls, streets, and more. The image is of a coppery dragon's front half, like half the image is missing.

How they are appearing is a mystery, but they appear to be cropping up quite frequently.

Tariday, Vhast 14, 1016

Prestigious Moon Under New Ownership

Apparently, Lady Sandiel has come into the possession of a Llyranessi clothing shop.

Really.

Needless to say, this is contributing to a great deal of curiosity, given her usual disdain for fashion.

Variday, Vhast 13, 1016

A Song of Headbutting

From the town criers': "Let it be known that Zaxx of the Adventurer's Guild sponsors a detailed song of the upcoming Headbutting Contest with no less than fifty gold coins to be paid when the song is in circulation and to be performed at midsummer and the temple of Angoron for no less than once a month until midsummer."

Ceriday, Vhast 11, 1016

Boshter Headbutt Challenge

The Arvek Nar, Boshter, has issued a standing challenge.

Apparently, the challenge is to break an object with your head that Boshter can not also break.

No. Really. The Boshter headbutt challenge is now a 'thing'.

Kesenday, Vhast 10, 1016

Dragon Knight Sighted

During the blizzard that took place over the last couple of days, the Dragon Knight and her silver Dragon have been sighted in flight near Alexandria. Apparently, they were recently seen travelling towards the Vast before returning to the crumbling fort they've been operating out of since their arrival in Alexandria last fall.

Kesenday, Vhast 10, 1016

Guardsman Slain in Sting Gone Wrong

Two groups of mercenaries from the Guild of Explorers and the City Guard set out together and were working in concert to trap bandits which are said to've been hassling merchants on the roads recently. They returned later that same day with several wounded guardsman and a few deceased ones as well being carried back to Alexandria for proper internment in the city's crypts.

The local rumor mill is indicating that both groups ran into unrelated (or was it?) trouble and were forced to give up their efforts to lure out the bandits in question.

Korday, Vhast 09, 1016

Snow Tapers Off

The sudden snowstorm which rocked Alexandria and environs has slowed down and finally stopped. It will take a few days to dig out from under it and the snow will be around for a while with the weather generally being a good bit colder than it usually is this time of year.

Tariday, Vhast 07, 1016

Illothan Cult Broken Up

The City Watch today is pleased to announce that a ring of Illothan Cultists, worshipers of the goddess of murder, have been either killed or apprehended. The Guard claims that these cultists were responsible for the troubles in Goblintown during the exorcism and more recently along the wall with the release of their so-called 'Blood Golems'.

The City Watch offers a special thank to you all the Guild of Explorer Members who assisted and took great risks for the safety of the city. Eligar, Findrago, Bennet, Zippo, Ulharilti Wiivai, Katyana, Dragomir, Millicent, Zippo, Jonan, Vuk, and Fazahd have all received a commendation from the city and are publically thanked at the end of the announcement.

Variday, Vhast 06, 1016

Sudden Blizzard

A sudden snow storm struck Alexandria tonight. It began snowing at around midnight and didn't stop until eight hours later. The city will begin digging itself out, but the storm blew in from over the Redridge mountains. It's thought likely an odd weather pattern from the Desolation is to blame.

For the next day or two, the city and surrounding countryside will be struck with additional flurries.

Gilday, Vhast 01, 1016

Estate Sale Successful

The estate sale of Renthis Banhold went quite well, according to rumor, and many miscellaneous souvenirs of a career in adventuring were purchased by those with interests in such thing. The house now lays abandoned and will soon go up for sale, no doubt, itself.

Gilday, Vhast 01, 1016

The Phoenix

As part of the turning of the year, the Progressive Arcanist's put on quite a show! The highlight of it was the fireworks display, which began with a illusory phoenix of great size flying over Alexandria before taking off high into the sky and exploding into a brilliant display of fireworks. The phoenix, being the symbol of ALexandria's flag and its many rebirths, was a welcome sight to close out the year for many and cheers were heard throughout the city at the display.

Ceriday, Khael 28, 1015

Daemon Trouble

It seems that it is all over, the rash of demon sightings and attacks over in the Redridge Mountains. Seems the miners of the platinum mine released a daemon (that's with an A) that used demons to cause trouble while it was gaining a base of power. It attacked and took over a local monastery, but thankfully even with some relatively minor damage, they have been freed from the daemon's control.

There was also a rash of demons that were about just causing mischief and mayhem, but it seems other groups have already gone through and swept them up quite handedly. Though it might be wise to be cautious of the mystery meat at the Ox-Strength Tavern for a while.

Kesenday, Khael 27, 1015

Bandits Strike?

A merchant was seen stumbling into town by the north gate today, telling a tale of masked man who came out of nowhere to strike him down and burn his wagon after pillaging it. He claims they left him a single half-copper, which some say was from the fallen kingdom of Dragonier. As this tale spreads, wary eyes are turned towards those from the fallen kingdom who've made Alexandria their home.

Eliday, Khael 22, 1015

Fighting Crime

In response to the rising crime some adventurers have been recruited to help track down and catch those that break the law. One such group was in action recently, following a break in at a local jewelry store. One of the perpetrators was caught turned informant. Using that information the adventurers broke up the gang and recovered the jewelry. However on a darker note, the informant was found dead a couple of nights later, his body drained of all its blood...

(Feel free to speak to Bennet, Vuk, Kade, Zippo, Ulharilti Wiivai and Takiyah about what happened.)

Ceriday, Khael 21, 1015

Rising Crime

With the guard depleted after the fall of the Blue Lady, the cost having been so high, shadier elements in Alexandria are returning to business as usual as well. Reports of extortion, smuggling and all other manner of larceny seem to be on the rise. More rumors indicate the growth of new underground organizations born out of the refugees are quite common, with many fingers pointed at the Dragonieri most especially.

Korday, Khael 19, 1015

Trade Begins Again

With the Azure Queen no longer present and things slowly returning to normal in Alexandria, trade is once again beginning to flourish in the city.

More specifically, a number of Khazadi merchant airships seem to be heading northwards. Their destination is rumored to be Bludgun, oddly enough. Despite the ancient animosity between Khazad, Oruch and Giant, the delivery of tools, foodstuffs, and other sorts of things for the development of Bludugn's norther, Dragonier facing fortifications is continuing apace.

Tariday, Khael 17, 1015

More in the Mountains

Things are getting weirder out by the mountains. Now a monk has been brought from a nearby village talking about how his monastery has been run over by some sort of evil that infected him and all of his Brothers, even the Abbot. He is now in the care of the faithful of Navros in the city but being questioned by priests of Daeus.

Korday, Khael 12, 1015

More from the Redridge

Seems a lot have been going on over in the Redridge Mountains as of late. Among everything else, it seems that a recently rediscovered platinum mine was overrun by demons, killing everyone working there. A party sent by the owner found a few stragglers, but also reported oddities evil inside the mine. It is currently sealed off, and with one small artifact recovered, there are still questions.

Also, in a nearby ranching village, they were experiencing disappearances as well as cattle mutilation. These too were investigated and discovered to be caused by various demons causing mayhem. What has gotten everything stirred up?

OOC: Anyone wishing to do any investigations on these events, please @mail or page Elessa.

Variday, Khael 09, 1015

Rumblings roused from Redridge

For the past few nights there have been tales of wolf howls from the trails in the Redridge Mountains leading up to the mining settlements there. More disturbing though are rumours that ancient burial sites have been violated, releasing numbers of the unliving. Something up there in the bleak of winter must have been roused and it seems to be drawing closer to the city. Finally, an older miner comes into town, refusing to explain where his wounds came from until he gets a good stiff shot of whiskey into him. Even then he seems reticent:

"It were a.. a big dog."

"A stray you mean?"

"Not 'sactly. Like someone 'ad tried to blend a dog and a man. It was tellin' those normal sized wolves and the shamblin' ones wot ta do."

"Commanding them?"

"Yeah. Barely 'scaped wiv me life. Barkeep: fill 'er up!"

Nothing coherent comes from the man the rest of the night, save to indicate that he has lost a companion on the trail in a horrific attack.

OOC: For more information, please contact Benthus, Kiroth, Zaxx, Bennet or Larron.

Korday, Khael 05, 1015

Snow Statues

Outside of the Ox-Strength Tavern one might see a strange sight. Dozens of Statues have been constructed out of snow in honor of one of the city's most famous elves, the Noble Lady Sandiel or Sandy as she is known by. Come marvel at the artistic majesty of these masterpieces before they melt into nothing. Be careful though, one of they could be the persnickety Lady Sandy.

Gilday, Khael 04, 1015

An Exhortation in the Market

"We must not forget th'horrors to our north, my brothers an' sisters!"

An exhortation was roared forth from the top of a wagon in the market today by an orcish Current of Rada that goes by the name of Brother Fishbelly, apparently having something to do with Dragonier.

"I know that th'wounds of our war with Bludgun are fresh... but we must bandage them an' set our differences aside, for what lies beyond threatens not just th'Bludgunni but us as well! Th'Great Dead Dragon will not stop at th'borders of goblinoid lands, no -- he will turn his blackened eyes to us as well, an' his wights an' worse will ravage our lands if he is not stopped. We must send adventurers north, send military aid north as well! HEAR MY WORDS! THERE IS SOMETHING COMING--"

At this point, the town guard dragged him off the wagon and threw him in jail for public drunkenness for the evening.

Variday, Khael 02, 1015

Dragon in the Hills

In the aftermath of recent chaos, a fishing town ran into crossroads with a wandering dragon. Whether over fishing rights, territory, or just malice, the town lost a number of workers to the creature. With help from the local sheriff, adventurers tracked it into the hills. When challenged with axe and spear, the dragon lost and fell to earth.

The threat to the town is ended, and local sith were called upon to dispose of the dragon's body, according to tribal custom. One adventurer was heard to comment that the creature could have been a needed ally against Heth, if he'd only listened. Heth is the massive beast who singlehandedly runs what was once the mighty nation of Dragonier, controlling an army of undeath and destruction. He first took Dragonier sometime between 1008 and 1013, but with things as they were, word was understandably slow to filter out...and uncertain.

OOC: A big, big thanks to Hurricane for running this! You rock, especially doing this on the fly. :3 OOC2: For rumors about the scene, contact Fishbelly, Kravar, Tatyannah, Zarr, or Ormarr.

End Cannibal Queen Arc

Tariday, Quintoos 26, 1015

Damage Report

With the City-wide efforts leading to the expulsion of the Cannibal Queen, there is also a lot of damage. According to authorities, the damage report for the city of Alexandria is as follows:

Temple Square: The roof of the Temple of Tarien has been /blown off/. It is now roofless. Most of the windows in the temple district have been shattered. There is a giant hole on the side, a lucht-sized dent in the dome, as well as previous damage, to the Temple of Daeus.

Riverfront: The riverfront district bears a /lot/ of damage. A gret deal of fighting went on down there that ended with a gret deluge of water flooding the distrct, though briefly. The docks suffered significant damage and will take a great deal of time to repair.

City-wide: The mana lights are all having to be replaced, bit by bit. It won't take too terribly long, but the city is going to be darker than usual for a while.

Bank: The bank of Alexandria suffered not one, but /two/ assaults. The second one was more damaging than the first and explosives cracked a bank vault. Unsurprisingly, the bank is now under extremely heavy guard.

Goblintown: Goblintown is recovering from its riots and panics nicely. Since most of the buildings there are rather ramshackle, they've been deconstructed and reconstructed in record time. Artifice helps, too.

City Defenses: A section of the norhtern wall, close to the western edge, was apparently disintegrated by a now slain creature, but barricades and guards have been placed at this brach until such time as members from the appropriate guilds can devise a strategy to patch the hole in the walls.

...There are probably some damages I am not including here, but these are the ones I was able to gather together! If I'm forgetting something, let me know and I'll add it in! - Whirl

Variday, Quintoos 25, 1015

The End of the Queen

Late on the second day of the Exorcism, the ritual completed.

In doing so, it literally exploded just about every window in the Temple District, every window, especially on the Temple of Tarien, and literally blew the roof off said temple. Turns out that exorcism was being held in there -- and now it is done. At last. Between Kulthian machines, evil doppelgangers, and the Queen's own infected minions, the cost was high and dozens have been left dead, and that's not even getting into the other events of the day. The bank robbery, a rumored trip by agents of Alexandria to Merkabah, undead still loose in the city, the creation of something called 'The Blood Golem' and much, much more.

There were threts large and small, but all of them, one after the other, was confronted and defeated by heroes worthy of the city of Alexandria.

The City Council has issued an edict that for the next week there will be a time of mourning and celebration. Mourning those who were lost, but celebrating what was saved. The Vardamans will be very busy.

Quintoos 11, 1015

Variday, The Exorcism: Day One Completion

The day started off well enough. Though the air was tense, nothing occurred of any real import until the closing hours of the day.

The barricades around the Temple of Daeus were completed and soldiers and adventurers of the Explorer's Guild -- mercenaries really -- were assigned to watch over the Temple district. Others were assigned to the docks, anticipating the arrival of an attack force of vengeful Sahuagin who were no doubt incensed over the destruction of their underwater home by the Planar Disjunction Cannon (better known as the spell cannon).

As all these preperations were under way, preperations of another sort were beginning. The guards, early in the day, had heard whispers that there was going to be some kind of plan enacted by a local criminal. They dispatched a team of savvy individuals to arrest him. Tracking him down, they found out that he was planning to attack the Bank of Alexandria, taking advantage of the Guard's distraction and thin stretchedness. His plan was foiled and the criminal slain by a team of adventurers, though not without great difficulty. The bank robbery was foiled and the stolen loot returned, but for that which was given to the heroes for foiling the plan.

As night fell, several explosions rocked the city.

The first were at a building in the lower trade district. There, an explosion blew out the top floor of a building. Witnesses report several adventurers leaping from the window shortly thereafter. It was followed by a couple of secondary explosions from within the building. There is no official comment on the operation at this time, but the fires were quickly brought under control by civilians and guardsmen working hand in hand to contain the damage.

More explosions rocked the city, though, as the attack on Alexandria got truly underway. In the Temple District, an explosion blew open a hole in the temple of Daeus' side. Witnesses report that the Guards were confronted with bombers mind-controlled to blow themselves up on the premises. As this happened, cylinders began raining from the sky in a manner not seen since the days of the Illuminated Order war years ago, spitting out faux-Kulthian horrors all over the city -- though thankfully nowhere near as sophisticated as those used by the Illuminated Order. The heart of the attack, and the greatest number of these, was at the Temple District. There, the paladins of the various faiths and their clerics, along wiht numerous heroes, battled valiantly to contain the threat and drive it back so that the ritual wouldn't be interrupted. Only the Tarienites were absent, apparently enmeshed into an on-going party that doesn't seem to have stopped to this hour.

While the 'Kulthian' attacks seem to've petered out, that wasn't the end of the night's drama.

First, there was an alarm sounded at the Castellum. Apparently, something went terribly wrong there. Rumors say that the guard had briefly lost track of the location of several Council Members. A couple hours later, the all clear was given and everyone was assured by city officials that nothing had happened. A mistaken, false alarm. Those skeptical of this whisper that inside sources indicate some sort of demonic attack had taken place and that Lady Rawyn was kidnapped. An edict issued by her countering this rumor came not long after.

As the night continued, the expected Sahuagin attack came. Hordes of the angry fishmen swarmed the docks, setting several warehouses a blaze. The guard put their plan into effect and destroyed the undersea tunnels that were being used by them to funnel troops close to Alexandria without leaving them exposed to coastal defenses. Several adventurers took part in the battle, making a heroic stand that saved countless lives here as well.

While Alexandria is still in peril, the hard fought victories on the first day of the Exorcism show that their resolve is unshakeable. They are united in their desire to defeat the Queen and the agents of her discord will not stop them.

Variday, Quintoos 04, 1015

Attack on West Gate

Last last night, sounds of battle could be heard from the west gate of Alexandria, as well as a few late alarms. The rumor, is that something putrid attacked the gate, parents using booger slinging children to attack people guarding the gate. The rumor also states that the wall was partially brought down by vines. The upper wall is missing, but the lower sections and the surrounding areas are fine, however the wall has been charred by fire, with the vines have been burned away.

OOC: Those who wish to inquire should speak to Kilian, Deril, Kiroth, Holdan, Fishbelly, Caris, or Raethon for details.

Variday, Rhaltaas 28, 1015

Guards, guards everywhere

The city is on lockdown.

Sort of.

There are city watchmen /everywhere/. Everyone has been called onto duty, and the Guild of Explorers is assisting in the effort. There are patrols around every corner, it'd seem. Hell, they're even in goblintown, which is causing some tension with the local goblin and Arvek Nar militia.

In other words: the city seems quite ready for /anything/.

Eliday, Rhaltaas 27, 1015

Lights Out

Every light in the city of Alexandria -- that is to say, every mana based lamp or torch that lights public areas, has now gone out. City officials claim that it's merely a technical issue, but it's proximity to the impending 'exorcism' of the Azure Queen can't be any coincidence.

Regardless, they're /out/ and nobody knows when they'll be working again.

Eliday, Rhaltaas 20, 1015

An Installation at the Fernwood

A marvel!

A catastrophe!

A...a...unique and wondrous gift to the people of Alexandros!

Rumors fly as wildly as opinions. In the midst of the cloud hanging over the City...one of the Khazad trading companies (who are even now working to re-establish pre-Mist trade routes all over the world) has bequeathed the loan of a grand instrument to the people of Alexandros.

The Harp of the Undermountain, it is declared, is a marvel of not only performance but of khazad craftsmanship. As most harps are small so that they may be carried, the Harp the sponsor boasts, is as large as three khazadi side by side.

The sildanyari, who are traditionally known for their fine harps and similar instruments, have near universally expressed their...doubt.

Among certain circles, reactions range from doubt to disbelief to a...guarded interest.

Nevertheless, the Masterbuilder-based company, By My Beardstrings, is set to reveal its creation within the week. An installation within the reknowned Fernwood Pub. A number of performances, they say, are scheduled soon after.

Eliday, Rhaltaas 20, 1015

Temple of Daeus Barricades

Additional barricades are being erected around the Temple of Daeus, and additional guards have been placed about it. It would appear that the Temple is taking great lengths to secure itself from any potential violence. No doubt this has something to do with rumored ritual that is to come.

Tariday, Rhaltaas 08, 1015

The Collection is Complete

Rumors are flittering out of the Temples that the collection of holy objects is now complete. One imagines it's only a matter of time before they're put to use. Their location is unknown for security reasons, of course, but just as one can imagine that they'll be soon used, one can also imagine that 'secure' only means that nobody has tried to steal them.

Yet.

The air of tension in the city continues exhaustively, but due to the efforts of the adventurers and the city guard, things are still stable.

For now.

Visitors to the Dragon and it's Knight

Recently, two separate individuals -- one woman and one armored knight, were seen being seen at separate times heading off to the nearby ruined fort where the Dragon and it's Knight are said to be making their home during their visit to Alexandria. People are speculating as to what role they might play in events going forward, especially with regards to the so-called 'Exorcism' of the 'Azure Queen'.

Tariday, Rhaltaas 08, 1015

Fizzleton's Circus of Marvels!

The gobber-run circle known as Master Fizzleton's Circus of Wonders is in town!

It isn't set up yet, because rumor has it that Master Fizzleton just led an expedition to the fabled Isle of the Gargantua, and came back with a magnificent beast to display at the circus once they're ready to show their marvels to the sight-seers of Alexandria.

The usual protests by druids have begun outside their camp beyond the city walls.

Variday, Daeshen 30, 1015

Ableskein Asylum Burns

Terrible news comes back to Alexandria. Dozens of inmates sent to the once well-reputed Ableskein Asylum Home are now dead. Families grieve and search for answers as to what befell them, but all the surviving management can manage is broken accounts of terrible nightmares and waking to a house broken by the Azure Queen. Many former patients are being returned to their families and the care of the Althean church when that is not an option. The survivors are all shaken, and it will be some time before they feel safe enough to speak of their experiences. The Asylum itself is barred to all entry and being investigated by the Altheans and Alexandrian Constabulary. All that's known is that Jibbom and a few others were recently there on suspicious business, and much of the interior of the building itself is blackened and burned out.

Variday, Daeshen 30, 1015

Food Additives

Rumors of a commotion at the Ox this evening circulate. What exactly it was is unclear, though the words 'infestation' and 'that place!' are overheard.

Well.

It's the Ox, right?

OOC: Speak with Ulharilti Wiivai, Mel, Zalara, or Mikilos for details!

Ceriday, Daeshen 28, 1015

A light in the night

In the early twilight hours of the morning, a great beam of energy streaks from the Red Ridge Mountains out into the open sea. There is a great commotion and giant waves crash against the cliffs of Alexandria. The Tornmawr will be running high for several days.

The spell cannon has been fired.

Rumors from the North

Bludgun is an isolationist nation.

It's been one since the end of the Sendor War and the vanishing of King Harshtone. Now ruled by the largely mysterious ====Council of the Fireborn====, they====ve largely closed their borders but to traders who====ve worked out arrangements for the deliveries of desperately needed goods. Now those same traders are reporting that Bludgun seems to be engaged in some kind of fortification effort along its north border.

Of course, this fortification effort should come as no surprise, as its northern border is the one they share with the fallen nation of Dragonier. While not the first such effort, this latest one is said to be the most extensive effort at walling the giant-lead kingdom off from the danger that Heth and its minions represent. Of course, it also serves to keep those still continuing the struggle against Heth and other refugees out as well.

Eliday, Daeshen 15, 1015

Pilgrims Again

Once more, the trek to the holy Eidolon Court is open to pilgrims who wish to go and hear the Hymn of Creation. The first such group returned this evening, though many of those who went looked more subdued and concerned than one would expect on such a joyous occasion.

Soon thereafter, rumors begin to surface about some kind of divine vision having been witnessed by some of the pilgrims there, where they were warned about the 'the children of the first born' and how they will 'rise'.

As if Alexandria needed /more/ to worry about while it untangles the thorny problem of the Azure Queen and her influence.

Korday, Daeshen 12, 1015

A Queen's Ransom

Returning gloriously from the mountains is an expedition that uncovered what appears to be one of the largest treasure troves of art recovered from the Sorceress Wars in at least several years.

The art in question, found by an expedition lead by two treasure hunters, Maxwell Saymoore and Selma Blayworth, were hot on the trail of merely one magical item, a lyre constructed by an elven bard seven centuries ago with exquisite skill, when they soon learned that they might be on the trail of something much more valuable.

"We're very proud of this accomplishment. We couldn't have done it without working together from beginning to end," Maxwell is said to have noted.

The art is now being housed in various city storehouses under lock and key until artistic evaluators, Ceinarans, Reosians, and more have had the chance to look at it. An effort will be made to return the art to its proper owners or their inheritors.

This may prove problematic, however, and disputes over appropriate succession are likely to arise.

OOC: Talk to Zippo, Jensine, Jex, Kojot, Kravar, Millicent, Gwendolyn for information.

Gilday, Daeshen 11, 1015

General Bloodeyes Appears

The village of Vandran, not far outside the gates of Alexandria, was recently "taken hostage" by a chieftain from Bludgun! In truth he was here seeing about opening trade relations with some unknown guild through a human middle-man named "Mr. Shram". General Bloodeyes, a huge ogre, and his gang set up outside of Alexandria and "convinced" many traveling merchants to come and caiter to them before soldiers from the city could establish proper detours.

A group of adventurers made their way to the camp and learned that General Bloodeyes was going to judge Alexandria's worth for trade based entirely on the stories and performances of that group of adventurers, and that once he had had his fill of entertainment he planned to leave. Not entirely prepared for the task, the adventurers made a wide range of performances, though General Bloodeyes seemed most interested in the storytelling (even if some of the stories were a bit far-fetched).

Satisfied with the performances, General Bloodeyes agreed to open a trade route to Alexandria, and both he and his men were gone by dawn the next morning. In the end, trade was momentarily disrupted and the village of Vandran will not be quick to forget the stressful visit, but things turned out well enough.

Tariday, Daeshen 10, 1015

Word Spreads

Word spreads rapidly through the city of Alexandria that one of the few remaining Dragon Knights of the lost nation of Dragonier is en route to Alexandria. The Dragon Knights were an esteemed order in their heyday, a glorious organization that kept the borders of Dragonier safe and brought justice to the world. Many a time they reached out to help Alexandria in its time of need, up to and including the Sendor War whose conclusion catapulted Alexandria into 'the mists' for five long years... at least to everyone who wasn't in Alexandria.

During Alexandria's sojourn into the Mists, the Dragon Knights extended their influence into the greater world once more to try to balance delicate political forces, most notably in incinerating a warlord of Dran who refused to take heed of their warnings during a period of expansion and aggression by its war-like people. Busy putting out fires all over hte world, they were ill-equipped when Heth rose and struck down the great golden dragon who ruled the ancient nation and murdered many other slumbering dragons. Though the Dragon Knights fought valiantly to save their country, they were no match for Heth and their final ill-fated charge against the great beast is commemorated in the now famous Bardic Song 'The Last Flight Of the Dragon Knights' by Peville Arborni of the Mythwood.

It is, perhaps, ill-named. After all, there a few dragon knights left. But what purpose could bring one to Alexandria? Rumors indicate that he aims to speak with several adventurers about recent events in Dragonier they were witness to.

The Azure Queen

More of a malevolent entity than a tangible force, the so-called Azure Queen has been an urban legend for some time. Often associated with acts of cannibals (hence her so-called title of 'Queen of the Cannibals', the Azure Queen is at the heart of many of the troubles that plague Alexandria as of late and it has been learned that she is an all too real force for evil even if her nature remains unknown.

Evidence of her influence can be seen all around as conflicts go worse, pushing families and neighbors into fighting each other over increasingly petty things, business owners devour their own coffers in greed, and merchants hoard their stocks, but there is always a very real, /root/ problem that it stems from. She just seems to make a bad thing /worse/.

Then there are those more directly afflicted -- actual men who've turned to the practice of cannibalism, claiming to follow 'the lady in blue' and her path. Once such cannibal was hanged after being caught and shouted about how she was 'coming'. Since then, indeed, things have steadily increased in tension all about the city.

The Churches of Alexandria have declared a plan to exorcise her spirit and purge the region of her taint. Adventurers from Alexandria have been dispatched across the land, hunting down the holy relics necessary for this act. In the meantime, other methods of battling her, and stemming the tide of her influence, continue to be explored.

Eliday, Daeshen 08, 1015

Fires in Goblintown

Recently, a firebroke out in the central Goblintown district. It was quickly doused through fast-acting explorer's guild members along with local Goblintown militia. The explorer's guild and militia were apparently on hand to arrest a wanted fugitive.

More strangely, however, are reports of azure-hued goblins that attacked the adventurers, a worrying sign that the madness of the so-calld 'Cannibal Queen' might've spread into Goblintown itself.

Ceriday, Daeshen 28, 1015

The Death of Teakettle

An announcement is posted all over the city, announcing the death of Captain Teakettle in a major operation to end the pirate threat to Alexandria's shipping and trade. Teakettle, notorious for his stack on Alexandria by slipping up the Tornmawr in a submersible, is a known cannibal and thought to be a mad man in the service of the Azure Queen. The lucht Pirate's head, taken in battle, is now mounted on a spike near the gates of the Castellum for all to see.

In addition, it is announced that the spell cannon has been used to destroy a major threat to Alexandria. Recently, numerous adventurers hunting for Teakettle's base found a Sahuagin military base beneath he sea where they were gathering some sort of army and conducting dark rituals to their God. The Spell Cannon has been used to annihilate this base and to remove the threat of the Sahuagin from the city's side -- or so it is claimed. Many speculate the spell cannon was used as a show of force to ensure other nations that Alexandria's defenses are secure. Open debate on this matter, and the use of such Kulthian technology by the city government, has spurred many arguments already.

That said, all of it, Teakettle is dead and the back of the pirate operations broken. All that's left now is to dispel the spirit of the Azure Queen, if such a thing is truly possible.

Eliday, Daeshen 08, 1015

The Cannon Moves

Today, the great turret of the Planar Disjunction Cannon, sitting in the Red Ridge Mountains, turned and now faces out over Alexandria -- aimed towards the sea.

Korday, Callem 22, 1015

An End To Wasps

Reports from the Mythwood Wardens indicate that the threat from the felwood wasps has been contained. A group of adventures recently stormed the nest and put an end to its taint! The injured wardens are finally beginning to recover and the peril the villages outlying to Alexandria were in has now been dealt with. One more situation dealt with.

(Thanks to Rogun, Sebropert, Ferawyn, Elgin, Eligar and Brom! Especially to Sebropert for taking point on organizing and getting this IC situation handled and everyone else who contributed to this. Also, big thanks to Lahar for tackling the storyline in the first place!)

Variday, Callem 19, 1015

Forest Fire

Travellers are reporting that a forest fire is still burning north of Alexandria -- laying closer to the Mythwood than to Alexandria proper. Rumor is it was started by a sorcerer -- a sorcerer who is untrained and now in the care of the Mythwood Wardens. Another example, some elves say, of humans failing to keep their magical house in order.

Korday, Callem 15, 1015

Sildanyari Dance Party?

From an article in this week's Alexandrian Tribune...

"I am unclear what precisely was being celebrated by the Sildanyari of the city today but a procession was seen prancing and dancing in fine form through the markets and warehouse district. This reporter has never seen anything like it though I am a bit concerned about their choice of footwear. Still, one never knows with Sildanyar--they are a touchy folk. Still, it is always wonderful to see individuals fully embracing their cultural heritage so this reporter says Prance on!"

Tariday, Callem 6, 1015

Settlings

Efforts proceed to banish the so-called 'spirit of the Azure Queen, with groups of adventurers being sent far and wide to gather 'holy relics' for the various churches that will be participating the ritual. Some are said to have been returned already, but the churches and the government are refusing to issue any confirmations for security reasons.

More of ALexandrian's militia have been deployed to the city streets to assist the Watch. While they are taking a back seat, technically, to the City Watch's authority, some tensions are becoming visible between the two organizations.

A group of Dragonieri refugees were recently called to the Castellum to speak of the horrors witnessed during the fall of the kingdom to the dragon known as 'Heth'. After this meeting, the newly functional and restored Planar Disjunction Cannon that lays within the Red Ridge Mountains, more commonly referred to as the 'Spell Cannon' had its turret rotated to the north, where it has remained since.

The Alexandrian Navy continues its efforts to hunt the Lucht Suil pirate, Captain Teakettle, and has reported to the populace that it is closing in on him and will soon put an end to his threat. 'He will serve as a warning to all who choose the path of piracy'.

With the reduction in patrols outside of Alexandria, due to the forces being called to the city itself, banditry is becoming increasingly prevalent along the roads into and out of Alexandria, not to mention the increased threat from dangerous monsters that are still a problem in the region. Armed bands of Alexandrian advenrurers have been dispatched to quell the problems, but until regular patrols can be resumed and tension in the city itself decrease, it will remain a problem.

Korday Aestry 11, 1015

The Hunt for Teakettle

Word spreads from the river folk and wandering lucht that the popular River's Rest Inn, located not too far from Alexandria, has been a hub of madness. A group sent to investigate the whereabouts of the elusive pirates in their Kulthian submersible stumbled upon a cult of crazed maneaters. Shockingly, it was not ogres or other savages who had seized control of the locale, but man eating man as the stories go. St-eww seems to be the phrase of the day. The authorities and clergy are looking into the matter, because the inn's shrine to Rada has been desecrated and several questions remain unanswered.

(Kojot, Remethaer, Kilian, Thorarna, Brom, Solace, Niama, and Zaxx are to blame. Talk to them first if curious. :))===Thu Aestry 11===

Tariday Aestry 02, 1015

Pirates Raid Alexandria

It had been a beautiful day along the banks of the Tornmawr, but it quickly became a spectable. The Alexandrian river patrol had captured the infamous Captain Yuvan, a halfling pirate who had been pillaging the shores of the region, and others, for many years. He apparently surrendered outright to the navy without even a fight, and asked only to make a statement in Alexandria. While details vary on the exact nature of that statement, it would appear that not all pirates were so eager to let him get out of the business.

As the pirate crew moored their ship and was manacled on the docks, a second pirate ship -- some sort of iron submersible vehicle -- emerged from the water and opened fire on the Alexandrian vessels with mounted magitech cannons. Fire was exchanged between both of them as the iron ship rammed the docks and spilled forth a squadron of pirates, intent on preserving their secrets and inflicting casualties upon the Alexandrian people.

A fierce battled ensued and the pirates were eventually driven back before they could capture Captain Yuvan and most of his men. The Alexandrian navy has vowed retribution for the attack and the Ruling Councuil has indicated that no stone will be left unturned in their pursuit, while merchants whose business lies along the Tornmawr already whisper fearfully about what they could possibly do to protect themselves from this vessel and make plans for airship or travel by land until the situation is 'resolved'.

Where did this metal ship come from? Will it attempt to raid the city again? Or will the Alexandrian navy adn its allies destroy it before it can strike? Only time will tell.

Brief Festival

A brief event of some sort broke out without warning in the marketplace this afternoon. Dozens of children swarmed the area, singing songs and offering good cheer to the merchants of the area. Wizardly entertainments were present, and at least one magical lion ride. The children are apparently members of a new club sweeping the youth of the city, promoting inspiration and good cheer. Members can be seen wearing copper braclets, reading an enigmatic 'WWJD?'

A brief scuffle broke out shortly after the festival between children promoting a halfling leader, and others loyal to a gnomish one. Reports of a third group wearing tunics of 'WWSvID?' are unconfirmed.

Tariday Firetide 18, 1015

Spell Cannon, Reclaimed!

Today, the Council of Alexandria announced that they have officially reclaimed the Spell Cannon complex with the aid of members of the Explorer's Guild. In a combined Alexandrian/Myrrish operation, the Planar Disjunction Cannon (the spell cannon for shirt) which was once fired upon the Eidolon Court by the Blasphemer, Augustus Alexandroa, and upon the floating Fortress City of Merkabah, during the Illuminated Order War, vis to be brought back online to protect the city from any threats -- such as the the threat of Heth from Dragonier, or of Charn's armies. Myrrish and ALexandrian technical expertise is presently working together to ascertain how much damage was done during its years of dormancy under a spell of petrification, rendering it unusable until now, but the Council assures all that the cannon, and authority upon its use, are solely in Alexandrian hands.

Tariday Firetide 11, 1015

Mab Ranting

Rumors abound through the goblin population of Alexandria that Mab Smottle has been banned from Ma Rosie's Gambling Hall, after going on a bizarre and entirely unprovoked(?!) rant against artificery and artificers. Although the details of the rumors vary significantly (sometimes involving a generously-hipped elf laughing herself sick), the fact is that Mab was dragged out of the hall and dumped in a horse trough. This has not helped Mab's standing amongst other goblins at all, and she is apparently said to be steaming mad about it. Or at least having to steam her clothes. Rumors are hard.

Gilday Jun 19

Blue-Tinged Xorns

While the spell cannon has been reclaimed, it has not been without consequence. The elements are still not completely settled by the formerly petrified cannon and there are rumors of strange, blue tinged creatures lurking in the mountains still. These reports are being taken seriously and these creatures ar being actively hunted.

(Bonus points for any PRP which involves hunting 'Maddened, blue tinged Xorns'. )

Variday Firetide 10, 1015

Swarm Tactics

Merchants and travelers passing through Vadran village speak of a large ebony Sith'Makar and his red-headed companion collecting a team to voyage into the dark recesses of the Felwood. The wood is angry, and forces beyond its control need to be quelled. A call has been put out to friends of the wood, and friends of Vadran to find the source of the giant wasp menace and bring it to a halt.

OOC- For those that have been participating in the Vadran village plots, and/or would like to RP or help in adventures within give Sebropert or Ferawyn a holler. We have four interested parties so far, but I want to try to get anyone who would like to be involved to come along. This will be a Whirl/Beaglefarts thing, and should be a lot of fun. Or our doom. Depends on how you interprete them giggling every time they mention it to me.

Dates - I am shooting to get this done in the next week or so, and it will probably be a two parter (Of course time is fluid, and it will get done when people are available). Right now we can't do the 13th or 14th, but most other days are open. Page or mail me with your availabilities, and we'll run it by our lovely GMs and see when they can do it. Until then we can RP to pass along information or discuss strategy.

Kesenday Firetide 07, 1015

A Village Saved

The tiny village of Borm, on the edge of the Red Ridge Mountains, was recently the scene of an operation by Guild of Explorer's members in the employ of the city of Alexandria. Borm was apparently subject to a maddened wizard gating in horrible flying-head monsters (no, really) which, rumors say, apparently had the ability to transform OTHER people into similar flying head monsters. (No! Really!)

The wizard has apparently been destroyed, but numerous flying head monsters (we're not joking here) are apparently on the loose in the countryside. A bounty has been placed on them (to some scoffing) and life is slowly returning to normal for the villagers left behind.

(In short, PRP fuel for anyone who wants to run a PRP where folks get to hunt down and murder Vargouilles. Those creepy things!)

Arena Champions

In the western edge of the city a clarion call of brass trumpets sounds...

...the call is picked up deeper in the city and then re-played onward and forward until the sound can be heard at every point within the city.

Within an hour a herald stands in every plaza,

"Hear Ye, Hear Ye,

Let it be known that on the 30th day of Hattan in the year of 1015 that the battle of Snowbarrow Pass did commence in the Great Arena of Alexandria. Know that the Champions of Thane Lofriek did battle the Royal Guard of the Lizard King Ghall-ka; And that upon this day, as was so in ages past, the Champions of Lofriek did defeat the forces of Ghall-ka and claim victory in Snowbarrow Pass.

Hear now the names of you Champions for this day is theirs!

Hunter Bromormodin Thundercleaver of Clan Stonesmasher

Sir Eligar, Knight of Peace

Gunnhilde Sturremsdottir, a Shield Maiden of Volstengrad

Artifice Archivist Jex

Nadara, Ower of so Many Debts to Rada, She's Not Even Kidding

Takholden Windsbreath, Adventurer from the Vast

Let no /Lawful Request/ made by these Champions go unconsidered by the /True/ citizens of Alexandria until the dawning of tomorrow!"

Gilday Firetide 5, 1015

From the Frozen North

The Chaos hasn't benefited most places...but the Arena isn't most. Its draw always the fire of adrenaline, it now boasts exotic warriors from exotic locales, as well as the pride of local heroes.

Other nations have taken notice.

A band of oruch from the High North descended of late on the City. They arrived astride great mammoths, these warriors-turned-merchant...and challenger. Though they've entered their own into the Arena in the form of mighty berserkers, they've also brought with them...

...goods to sell.

They travel under the dual auspices of Kor and Rada, bearing the banners of both...and the strength of the frozen north.

OOC Note: We'll be posting some goods for sale shortly. This is more to set the scene for their arrival, so please go ahead and include these unruly merchants, and warriors, in your RP or even PrPs!

From the Frozen North, pt 2

The oruch band from Stormgarde brings with them a number of items, even as their berserkers enter the Arena in full force. These are listed below. The prices are in gold. If an item does not have a number (such as 2x) in front of its name, assume there is only one of them to sell.

The Warlord's Maul (1635)

This great earthbreaker bears the symbols of Kor and the stain of many battles. It gets its name from a tale associated with it, that once it was forged, a great lightning struck from the sky and demolished the crafter's house. This earthbreaker, goes the story, was made to challenge even the elements.

For mechanical purposes, treat this as an Earthbreaker +1.

Flail of the Glacier (3038)

This heavy flail bears an unusual chill, and is said to have been forged against the vicious spirits of the north. Its make is heavier than most, and requires a mighty warrior to lift.

For mechanical purposes, treat this as a +1 cold iron, Dran flail.

0x Shaman's Mane (13,265)

This ancient and gnarled staff was made for the hands of a prominant oruch. It claims an ancestry among the Fire Reavers, though its last owner was not of that tribe. Its surface is hewn with symbols if fire and its color is the color of harshly-burnt ash. At the cap is the mane of a manticore, bound around the staff as a symbol of power and warrior-prestige.

For mechanical purposes treat this as a staff of fire.

1x Rings of the Full Belly (oldest is sold) (1750)

These rings are different: one is old, and one is new, though the merchant claims they serve the same purpose. They keep the bearer's stomach full in even the harshest of climates.

For mechanical purposes, treat this as a ring of sustenance.

3x Potions of the War God (210)

Drinking one of these elixers is said to confer great strength. The bottles are crafted from old glass, done in the style of ages ago, and likely used, re-used over time for different purpose and ceremony. They contain a strong, reddish liquid, and are marked with the symbols of Kor.

For mechanical purposes, treat these as potions of bull's strength.

The Knowledge of Shamans (varied)

One offering offering from Stormgarde comes in the knowledge of the oruchs' great shamans. Inscribed in hide, they offer the following:

1x Scroll of Bull's Strength (105)

2x Scrolls of Bear's Endurance (105)

1x Wand of Endure Elements (525)

1x Elixir of (Spirit's) Vision (175)

The Knowledge of Warriors (varied)

The final offering comes in the form of heavy, masterful weaponry and armor. Most of these are inscribed with images of Kor.

1x Adamantine Earthbreaker (2114)

1x Masterwork Heavy Flail (221)

1x Masterwork Tower Shield (126)

2x Masterwork Claws of the Oruch (228)

To purchase from the caravan, please send in a +request. Items are first come, first served. Sold items will be removed from the queue, or have a 0x placed in front of their name and become unavailable.

OOC: The caravan has since returned to the north!

Gilday Hattanan 29, 1015

Food Attacks!

Did you hear that a new restaurant, Grandma Good'um's Kitchen? It was supposed to open, a place that served exclusively to the members of the Explorer's Guild. Naturally the higher ups of the Explorer's Guild sent some new members with the promise of a free lunch. If they returned without food poisoning then they would have to try it. Tak, Temarie, Brom and Faiza braved accepted the assignment of a free lunch on the guild's dime. Turns out the food tried to eat them. They had to battle soup that wanted to drowned them, a fried roasted chicken that to cook them and mashed potatoes that were looking to well...mash them. The four were able to defeated the food and discovered that Grandma Good'um's Kitchen had an artifice oven that was summoning food from some pocket universe. The guards were called and Grandma's Good'um's Kitchen has been shut down pending investigation.

Tariday Hattanan 28, 1015

Blight Averted

Recently, a group of followers of the Green Word set out for a farm in the Heartland, sent there at the behest of the Alexandrian city government. Rumors indicate some kind of blight was located there and the crops themselves were swiftly burnt after initial explorations. At least one witness reports that someone was deliberately trying to start some kind of blight. City officials assure the populace, however, that Alexandria's food supply is adequate and safe and on target to beat expectations and last year's harvest.

(Thanks to Tatyannah, Mara, Elessa, Molkh and Brom for a fun scene. Those curious about what happened should RP with them. :))

Tariday Hattanan 21, 1015

Mad Wizard

A local wizard is said to've fallen to the Azure Queen's corruption. Sacrificing his own life in black ritual, he conjured a tainted aquatic monster that devoured him in turn and used his remains as a grisly nest for its eggs. The corpse is said to've been found in a warehouse on the western docks beneath an eerie message painted in blood.

(Thanks to Jinks for running this PRP!)

Heartland Upset

Message: 7/7 Posted Author Heartland Upset Tue May 21 LaGnar

Word spreads that three boys, sons of farmers near the village of Vadran, were slain when playing at what was supposed to be an abandoned farm. According to rumor, the farmer's scarecrow came 'alive' and killed them.

Adventurers investingating the report discovered a field of an unknown narcotic being grown and harvested by order of the Cannibal Queen. How much of the drug has reached various cities is unknown.

OOC: This scene was run by Folkmar, and is part of the Cannibal Queen meta-arc! Get in touch with Rogun, Ferawyn, Petyr, Tatyannah, or Tak to investigate!

Variday Hattanan 20, 1015

More Raids in the Countryside

Chaos spreads. Not the light kind seen around the crackling of the fire, the beautiful kind inherit in the growth of joy, warmth in the heart of an excited child...but the darker sort emergent from forces unknown.

The arvek nar are latecomers to Alexandros, a place often called the hub of the world. They settled here after an orderly fashion and have been solid contributors, and protectors of not only city life but the myriad farm communities that form this great nation's backbone.

This last week, a group of them went 'rogue', thieving cattle and bringing harm to communities already hurt by current and as yet still unknown forces. While a group of adventurers has brought the band to a halt, the damage is there.

There is some bright light. The arvek have developed a solid reputation for hard work. In some cases, the incident brought neighbors closer together. However, in others, it's brought to mind old rivalries and superstition.

OOC: This scene was run by Folknar and is part of the Cannibal Queen meta-arc! Contact Rogun, Elessa, and Sebropert ICly for details!

Local Heroes...Gone?

While the threat of the Arena shutting down has...shut down due to the intervention of the Society (lead by Alexandria's Mikilos Mithralla), it seems as though some of the local fighters are taking their leave. Not all of them, but enough "local names" to be noticed by fans and regulars alike.

There's never a complete lack, though. Supposedly, Arena officials are working to bring in outsiders to fill the gaps, which may lead to new names and new faces. Excitement, they say.

Still, a number of Alexandrians are sad to see familiar heroes go.

OOC: We could use some folks to run some "exotic fights" using some gladitorial teams from far-off locations, either as a participating sport with local PCs, or as a spectator event! If interested, please contact staff for details. :3

OOC2: We tend to award a little extra for tying into meta-arc plots. Shhh. X)

Tariday Hattanan 14, 1015

Arena Settlings

Recent efforts and hard work among local adventurers has impacted the violence in the Arena. A llyranesi of the Society, Mikilos Mithralla let the charge, then found himself joined by other willing hands, as Society crafters took to modifying Arena weapons, enchanting them and rendering them nonlethal for the time being.

"We're certain the fighters know what they're doing. With what's going around, though..."

"We're not taking chances."

The quotes came from a pair of arena judges, notable to all by their distinctive uniforms.

Those who work officially with the Arena expressed their thanks, and have enforced use of these new weapon types during most combats. As a result, violence has dropped, and more than one person noted a sort of 'sighing' sound when the weapons were brought into play.

...though that could have easily been the wind.

Korday, Hattanan 2, 1015

Intercity Theatrics

Only recently re-settled, the flame and fire between the Flightwright and Hope is set to flare up again. As word of the "Remember the 62" warcry reached artistic ears, playwrights immediately set to work to bring the tragedy (and news) to the masses.

The respected playwright, Donathan Mayhew, has set quill to parchment and is purportedly "composing the work of a lifetime, filled with the heart of Vadran and the crying-out of the Heartlands...illustrating the bravery of these people..."

Other theatres will put in a bid for the work, though the Hope and Flightwright are expected to be at the forefront of it.

Could a work to honor a tragedy become a tragedy?

OOC: In older times, theatres were the movie theaters and newsrooms of the day. The Alexandrian theatres certainly play a similar role, and provide a vital means to communicate happenstance, circumstance, and debate political issues...as well as general entertainment from nobility to merchant to commoner. The Flightwright and Hope illustrate part of this mix-and-divide, one being similar to a marble statehouse with noble patrons, and the other...more "down to earth." Too, donations from noble patrons (and mercantile) are said to influence some plays produced, though at other times, an artist might truly go "out on the stage."

Variday, Bernfleur 29, 1015

A Warcry Among the Heartlands!

62! It's the new war cry among the Heartlands. At the entrance of Vadran, someone's shoved a sign into the earth with "62" written upon it, the current loss of the Heartlands's small towns and villages to the chaos.

As best they can count. A Sendor vetran, an Arvek, put the sign there after a recent attack left many dead. Without the adventurers there, many more would have perished.

There are mutterings that the small village, and others like it, will petition Alexandria's council.

OOC: For more information on this rumor, contact Ootin, Kravar, Ferawyn, Angrid, Kathryn, or Eligar!

OOC2: This is tied to the meta-arc! A number of you received notices regarding different parts of Alexandria and Alexandros which had begun to erupt. Most areas will be getting worse as our arc heats up. :3

Over time, these sections will 'implode' if not acted upon. When they do, they'll have a direct impact on commerce, trade, and the available of certain goods. This means, among other things, that prices for magic items, and basic items, and possibly even food will increase.

Legwork is open on these rumors, and PrPs.

Whirlpool will be doing another post on this tomorrow (tomorrow or next) with more information on how you can get involved. :) He hasn't been feeling well, so may need a little time.

Gilday, Bernfleur 24, 1015

Troop Movements

Recently, a deatchment of Alexandrian Militia departed from the city to the Red Ridge mountains via airship. They were joined there by a Myrrish detatchment of skyships where they are said to've performed, at least according to rumor, 'military exercises' together. Witnesses report both sets of airship opening fire on a spot somewhere in the mountains.

Tariday, Bernfleur 23, 1015

I've Gnomed More Women...!!!

I've gnomed more tavern wenches than you'll know in a lifetime!!!

Yes, that phrase set off a brawl in the Lower Trades the likes of which hasn't been seen since the Gobber Light Up and Spark pie incident four months ago. A middle-aged gnomish merchant assaulted an oruch chili master and that, they say, is what started it all.

Within seconds, the entire Lower Trades fell into chaos. Witnesses report the events happening swiftly, "Nae, before ya could blink!" according to some (scruffy, stereotypically bearded and kilted khazad-aul men as they hoisted a keg of beer).

Reports from the incident are still trickling in, though afterwards, some adventurers were seen fleeing the scene...

...of the CRIME!

OOC: I grabbed who was IC for this one. :3 Contact Kravar, Shilde, Chloe, Morgrinaar if you'd like to learn more! This ties into the Tenebrae Meta-Plot, the Azure (Cannibal) Queen.

Variday, Bernfleur 22, 1015

Chaos Grows

From an increased number of murders to brigades on the roads and high seas, it's apparent to even the casual traveler that chaos is on the rise. Not the warm, friendly chaos of a good song and dance at the pub, but something of a darker sort.

Different sections of the City are reacting different ways, with a number of them poised on a knife's edge. What this means is, a number of you have received @mails describing events in areas of the City you may know about. How much you know, or what, is up to you and your own tale. However, they are hints of things to come--potentially, without the action of heroes.

If you didn't get one, well. ...perhaps your party of the City hasn't started to implode.

Yet.

Eliday, Bernfleur 7, 1015

Break a Leg

Alexandria loves a good show, but usually it happens within the confines of a stage. Today, the entire Theatre District became a stage of sorts, when the long-bubbling, yet more often than not, festive feud between the Flame's Hope and the Flightwright imploded, leaving several wounded and two dead. Of those among the deceased are notable names from Alexandria's acting troupes--Jaryaith Shogunsinja and Sienn Faelight Fluttershyne, the latter of whom was most notable for her role as Lady Sandiel, in The Fall of Lady Sandiel, a love-tradgey which was performed for the first time just this last spring to city-wide acclaim. The Flightwright was also partially burned as an effect of the incident.

Who is responsible for the incident is not immediately certain, though the Watch reports that investigations are currently underway. Tensions within the district are understandably high, and a number of residents reported uneasily that should things not calm down, they may well pack up and move, relocating to other areas. Worse however, is that a number of nobles appear to have placed at least a temporary "hold" on their sponsorships as a result of the outbursts. Between the two events, it appears as though this year's upcoming performances may be...sparse, unless something is done.

Ceriday, Bernfleur 6, 1015

Tragedy in the Temple District

There was a tragedy today in the Temple District. As many were going about their daily business a young woman hanged herself from the top of the Temple of Althea. Despite the quick intervention of the locals as well as the hearhguards, there was not that could be done from her. Rumors indicate that, before she jumped, she shouted, "It's all for her."

The City Watch began its investigation, during which they were attacked by some sort of undead monstrosity. . Thankfully for those gathered there was a large group of adventurers, not to mention the huge number of clerics, paladins, and more, and they were able to defeat the monstrosity before it could cause more damage, though two unfortunate lives were lost.

It's unknown who summoned the undead, but rumors that a Mul'niessa was heard praising the Shadow Sorceress before the undead attacked. She was later said to be taken into custody.

Gilday, Eatonis 20, 1015

A Rash of Suicides

Recently, there's been a rash of suicides from within Alexandria. They've all taken differnt forms, as one can imagine, but the uptick in them is noticable. Over the last couple of weeks, there has been nearly a dozen, or so it is rumroed, suicides in the city proper. The mourning families of those who've taken their own lives seem to be in a state of shock on matter.

Darker whispers blame demons, ghosts, and the Dark Gods, amongst other things.

Tariday, Eatonis 19, 1015

Nighttime Disturbances

Leaks from the Watch report a commotion from the Dragon's Den the other night. A few suspects were apprehended, though no official word regarding the arrests has been issued. A spokesman says that a statement may be forthcoming. In the meantime, additional Watch have been posted around the Dragon's Den, as well as the general riverside areas. The increased surveillance likely strains the resources of the City, but there's little to be done about it at this time given current events.

OOC: For details, contact Conrad, Jibbom, Zalara, Jibbom, or Jessa ongrid!

Tariday, Eatonis 5, 1015

Limping Back to Shore

The recently released Roslanian Galleon, named the Obsteprous Son, has been towed back to port missing its masts and looking much worse for wear. City officials who'd been aboard the ship for its maiden votage claim that it was damaged in a freak storm and that it will be repaired and refitted and sent back out into the waves as a pride of the Alexandrian mercantile fleet.

The crewmen, on the other hand, are said to be blaming a 'sea monster' for the damage to the ship. Several crewmen did -not- make it back, including the ship's captain and first mate.

Gilday, Pryntar 13, 1015

Unsettling Dreams

It's not the kind of thing that gets talked about too openly, but several people have begun to whisper about the strange dreams they've had lately, or the dreams of those they know. Dreams of deeply violent imagery. The color blue also seems to be a common theme in these dreams.

No doubt this is fueled by the speculation about the so called 'Blue Lady' that has been whispered about for a while now.

Eliday, Vhast 20, 1015

A Happy Announcement!

The Explorer's Guild is pleased to announce the recent action of several of its members in eradicating the recent menace plaguing the Vaersiman Manor. Through intervention of the Guild, deaths have been reduced 100%, ensuring a joyful and romantic getaway spot for all interested newlyweds. Why, the Vaersiman Manor was so inspiring that several of our fine Guild members chose that moment to join together in holy matrimony! Jessa and Vennan Hartose were wed while on assignment and the Guild would like to be the first to announce how happy they are to see that two members have found such happiness in each other while also destroying some dastardly fiends bent on destruction. The groom could not be reached for comment but the bride has announced that all gifts and money may be left at the Ceinaran Temple in her name.

Korday, Vhast 17, 1015

Panic in the Temple District's Great Plaza

Yesterday in the temple plaza there were people running out of the area in panic as an extremely large shadow and disguised demons took on a few adventurers. No one knows how the demons were there in the first place, but it IS known that many of the religious temples worked together to try and take down the shadow that was chasing Lady Sandiel. Lady Sandiel bravely took on the shadow on her own until help arrived, even, at one point, flying up into the air before coming down onto the roof of the Temple of Althaea with a rather loud smack.

Other reports had Munch with three others taking on a group of smaller flying things while the innocent people evacuated, even defeated two of them before one summoned more, who were defeated as well. Helping out The war golem were an oruch woman with drums (who could miss them?), a man with a bow, and a short blonde woman who was reportedly throwing lightning.

Lady Sandiel has reportedly survived her 'temple toss', but people are still looking for her husband (or wife) to tell her spouse what has happened.

OOC: For more rumors and information, please contact Munch, Lash, Elycia, Oates, or Sandy ongrid!

Ceriday Vhast 12, 2015

There's a Bug in my Ale

Word has filtered around that a band of adventurers did help one of the local brewers save his store of ale and other liquid consumables from a pair of giant scorpions that had gotten in from the sewers. Word has gotten around that anyone who might have a basement or cellar or underground storage should be careful lest any more of the carapaced arachnids be spotted.

OOC: For more information on this rumor, contact Zalara, Nadara, Lash, Brolin, or Zarr.

Kesenday, Vhast 11, 1015

The Butcher, Hanged

Near dawn and within sight of the phoenix atop the western gates, a man was hanged. The cannibal. The butcher. His crimes were listed by an official, and dozens of people (including those that helped bring him to justice and a number of priests from various temples) witnessed him hanged. Before the door was dropped, he was heard to scream a stream of gibberish that many are repeating as 'she knows she knows'. Other horrible rumors circulate, most popular among them that when they removed his hood, the Butcher had chewed off his own lips. Still, the whole affair seemed to have gone better than many expected and concluded without interruption.

Eliday Vhast 06, 1015

Ribbeting Times at the Hope

"...practice, just PRACTICE!" one of the proprietors' voice hit that high note when asked about a recent commotion at the Hope Theatre. Just this evening, passers-by in the the Theatre District saw a man being thrown out of the theatre after rounds of screaming were heard inside.

"Just...practice, you know. Practice for a...for the...for the...for the...for Sandy and the Frog Prince!" the man said, though he'd looked pale. Swallowed.

Whatever happened, rumors are flying. The man who'd been thrown from the theatre had a certain look about him, bystanders said, and made signs warding themselves against the legions of the Azure Queen (or among more common parlance, the Azure Terror, the Azure Bitch...and other less flattering terms, and some of them more terrifying).

In completely unrelated news, the Ox has taken to, of late, serving frog stew and battered frog boudin.

OOC: Contact Tavissha, Lash, or Zalara for information on this rumor!

Kesenday Vhast 04, 1015

Partially Completed Rituals

Details are lacking but rumors persist of a wedding held upon the Festival Grounds. The nuptuials were overseen by a Muse, and held between an unnamed invisible giant, and a barmaid. Alcohol is not directly mentioned, but may be assumed.

BrightBlade Svarshan, and Boshter the Arvek Nar were both seen leaving the area. Both deny involvement.

Korday, Vhast 1, 1015

Adventurers Bring in the New Year

As one year passed into the annals of history and a new year arrived the Explorer's Guild sponsored a party of all of the adventurers that get every dirty job in the city done. Be all accounts it was a wild party, there were a couple of brawls and even some sort of Alexandrian Sith'maker chair breaking ritual. One notable chair smasher was strangely absent and her presence was missed. The booze was flowing and very exotic liquor was being served. While most could handle their alcohol no doubt the clerics will be making hangover cures in the morning. To cap the entire event off as the night of the old year turned into the dawn of a new year the skies were alive with bright colors and loud booms. An extremely patriotic display of fireworks could be seen for miles around the city. By all accounts the city is looking up for this next year.

Eliday, Khael 30, 1014

Erroneous Experiment Damages Docks

The wizard who requested Guild of Explorers ruffians to assist him in protecting his testing did not get exactly what he expected as results. The members of the group have been ushered into the Temple of Althea for healing from what has been described by what an eyewitness apothecary reports as "the nastiest jellyfish stings he had ever seen", quoting the size of the jellyfish to be something to the realm of fifty feet across given the size of the stings, adding that they were lucky to survive such things.

The foreman of the dockworkers on shift is exceptionally irate with the testing of this experiment as it has caused ludicrous damage to two of the piers at the Alexandrian harbour, being caused by possibly the same boat. The City Watch claims that nothing out of the ordinary occurred, just that the wizard's ability to control his own magic is highly suspect.

Due to security issues a week and some ago within the Temple, the wizard, the adventurers, nor those tending to them could be reached for comment.

Eliday, Khael 23, 1014

Olyeaux Estate Settled

The estate of the late Lord Olyexau has finally been divided and sold, thanks in part to some adventurers from the Guild. His two feuding sons have been left the fruits (and vegetables) of his love of squash, and apparently have been legally denoted as "dunderheads."

The estate itself, though, was granted to Lord George Brawnson, as per the will. Lord Brawnson is best known for his legendary adventuring exploits, such as feeding a purple worm its own tail and using the resutling ball as the head of a flail to take out an entire squadron of roc aerial cavalry, or the time he convinced a thousand year old dragon to pay him its hoard in exchange to forgo the usual beating.

As Lord Brawnson is currently missing in action, the Brawnson estate has begun the process of reclaiming the overgrown and run-down Olyexau property and restoring it to glory, albeit with a Brawnson touch.

Variday, Khael 10, 1014

Caravan Adds to Inventory

"Whatddya mean I gotta pay a fine??!" the outraged roar could be heard for blocks. Kvnich Snigzof nearly ran afoul of the merchants' guild when word escaped that certain rumors /were/ true. His family was tied to the infamous Fizzlebog, the inventor of the dragonspitter and thunderbelcher.

And the gobbers had swarmed. So had some artificers. Everyone, it seemed, was wanting an autograph.

The City (via the Merchanter's Guild) is wanting him to pay damages. In response, he's added some healing potions to his list, in attempt to gain counter-support from the adventuring community.

OOC: The following items have been added, though they possess the same side effects as the alchemicals (see +bbread 7/18). As folks purchase, I update these +bbposts, so all supply quantities are current. As usual, email me a log of you RPing about the caravan ongrid, and I'll add an additional 5\ discount to the price. :3

The caravan will be leaving in 1 week.

- Lahar

New Items

6x Potions of Cure Light Wounds (37 gold ea.)

4x Potions of Cure Moderate Wounds (225 gold ea.)

4x Potions of Cure Serious Wounds (562 gold ea.)

Korday, Quintoos 29, 1014

A Caravan Arrives!

Amid cheering, screaming, and tales of woe and hand-wringing, the gobber's carravan arrives. It's led by a trio of gobbers of various ages, each claming to be the head of things, though one (Kvnich Snigzof) seems to be the leader of even /them/. A middle-aged gobber in heavy bear-fur, he struts proudly at the caravan's head, atop a great wolf and with a dragonspitter across his shoulder...

And declares the caravan open for business! The caravan spreads across a full quarter of Goblintown, and has quick business by the arvek and oruch, though other races hang back a while, in general. At first.

The caravan is brightly colored, with wheels and cogs and other things. The Snigzofs' great flag flies over it all, a raging wolf with a thunderbelcher held firmly in its jaws. The old crest held a pair of blades, but with the invention of the thunderbelcher, the dragonspitter, the merchant family was quick to adopt.

Maybe they /are/ related...

General Items

2x Belt of Enviable Gobber's Stamina (Con +2) (3,000)

2x Dragonspitter +1 (3,975)

1x Thunderbelcher +1 (available with any of the following enhancements, select one at purchase: Flaming, Lightning, Bane) (8,100)

2x Claws of Attack, Orcish +1 (1744)

2x Spiked Heavy Shield +1 (to the shield, spikes are masterwork, however) (1110)

2x Dire Flail +1 (1793)

1x Sword of the Planes (16,737)

3x Goggles! Goggles of Minute Seeing (1,875)

3x Goggles! Goggles of Night (9,000)

2x Lenses! Lens of Detection (2,625)

1x Instant Fortress! (41,250)

1x Robe of Blending (6,300)

2x Scarab of Golembane (1,875)

2x Sustaining Spoon (never leave your labratory again!) (4,050)

2x Wand of Detect Secret Doors (563)

Scrolls

3x Titan Fist (19)

2x Blur (113)

2x Darkvision (113)

1x Protection from Arrows (113)

2x Protection from Energy (Fire or Lightning only) (282)

3x Protection from Law (19)

2x Repair Light Damage (19)

2x Repair Moderate Damage (113)

2x Repair Serious Damage (282)

3x Dispel Magic (282)

2x Displacement (282)

3x Force Punch (282)

2x Stinking Cloud (282)

2x Tongues (282)

2x Water Breathing (282)

2x Detonate (525)

Alchemicals

All alchemicals are available! The cost for any is at 75\.

However, while the items work, the user may experience additional effects. Whenever an alchemical item which is applied to the skin or imbibed is used, the user should roll 1d6:

1-2: Nothing

3-4: The PC grows an unusual color for the next 24 hours or until dispelled

5: Tongue-tied for the next half hour as your tongue attempts to swap to "gobber-speak"; does not affect spell-casting but no one can understand what you say.

6: Suffer a mild case of Goblin Twitch for the next half hour. Shiny things become of slight interest, especially if of a technical nature.

All effects stack.

Tariday, Quintoos 27, 1014

Strange Sildanyari Rituals

Word whips through the streets like a whippoorwill. Sandy! The Shrew! Married!

A hoax! A lie!

But the rumors persist. Refuse to be put down.

Others claim they saw the sildanyari with another (they assume it's male, so difficult to tell with the pointy-eared) heading towards a jewelry shoppe. Or discussing one.

A mage comes forward and swears he was hired to whisk the two away to a secret, unbeknown beach locale!

Scandal! Lies! Hoax!

...but. What if it's TRUE???

Statements from Steel Von Ironblood have yet to be collected.

A Small Ad in Various Alexandrian Newspapers

In various newspapers that do exist, the Lady Sandiel takes out a small ad. It says:

"I am not married. I am not getting married. THAT IS ALL."

No doubt this will do nothing to help stomp out any speculation. It's too amusing to too many.

More Ads Taken Out!

Mikilos Mithralla is still single. There are postings of this, placed where the elf's usual business flyers go. Single. Any rumors to the contrary are false, and any details into the matter unimportant. And any delegations of inquiry from his family are really unnecessary and please please just go back home....

Variday, Quintoos 26, 1014

A Gobber Caravan

"So I says to him, I--heh. Jorgiz Bottleworsher, ya make a better impression ah listenin if yer ears weren't half-folded across't yer--"

"Aaaaauuuggghh!!"

"--an yer weren't hoppin mad, an--"

"AAAAUUUUGGGHHH!!!"

"--an with steam comin outcher either side of yer fa--"

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!"

"Well Taara's Hairy Eye, Jorg, what is it?"

"THEY. ARE. COMING! THEY! EVERYTHING I HAVE--"

"They? Who they?"

"THE SNIGZOF!" and with this final yell, Jorgiz screams to the sky, his gobber-ears flaring and flapping in incessant rage, before running off, as fast as his bandy-legs can take him.

"Oh," says the older gobber, then shoves a bony finger up his gobber-nose. Scratches around. "Well, that'd do it." And, scratching at his handsomely warty gobber-bum (he was quite the looker in his day), the older gobber bends down to lift up the scrap of paper dropped from the other gobber.

The Alexandrian Tribune article reads:

The Family Snigzof are headed to Alexandria, bringing tales of unimaginable fortune, daring adventure! The arrival causes a mixture of unrest and anticipation among the merchanter and adventuring population. As a precaution, the Watch has commandeered mages from the Society to enforce "fire-suppression" in Goblintown during the arrival.

The Snigzof caravan is expected to arrive within days, just in time for Yule. It will bear goods from the wonders (and horrors) of the City Clank. The news has Goblintown in an uproar, as the family is well-known, and other merchants scrambling for goods...and accusing the Snigizof of piracy.

Not an uncommon claim these days, what with the raids just south of the Tornmawr River...

OOC: Celebrate the holidays with us, Part 2! The caravan will be arriving in days. In the meantime, please include some of the tension in your RP--the merchant houses are generally unhappy with the idea, as a well-known gobber caravan can only bring further chaos to already strained relations (or the Tariens say, much-needed relief to some over-stuffed egos!). Mages have been drafted to watch for fires within Goblintown, and gobbers of course, are putting on their best and fluffing up their warts, hoping to arrange a marriage or two within this illustrious merchant family.

- Lahar

Tariday, Quintoos 13, 1014

Myrrish Baron Seeks Asylum

A Myrrish Baron, one Turilo Psovik, has sought asylum in Alexandria according to leaks from the magistrate's offices that've set the rumor mills amongst Alexandria's upper class a-spinning. He claims to be in grave danger and claims that the recent airship crash he was involved in, in an effort to return home after his father's abdication of his Barony for reasons of 'madness', was an act of sabotage caused by shadowy forces on one side or the other of the current dispute between the heirs to the still unfilled throne of King Serenas.

Alexandria's governing council has yet to hear his petition, but the Baron is in protective custody somewhere in the city. Or so they say.

Gilday, Rhaltaas 17, 1014

Thief Strikes the Petunia

The Petunia's captain expressed pleasure at current sales. "It's not bad," he said, before his brows drew downwards. "Though we had a lad try for the ship the other day. He broke in near some of the crates."

When asked where the "lad" was, the captain made some vague response about local druids, and irritating the wizards of Rune.

Local authorities are looking into the matter, though there seems nothing to report just yet. They are, however, watching the ship's intake of rubber sap, a common ingredient in some polymorph enchantments, in the interests of "adhering more closely with local justice methods."

OOC: +bbread 7/15 is current with supplies left and available. Expect it to stay that way until the ship departs. X) - Lah

Gilday, Rhaltaas 10, 1014

Open Market!

Despite recent attacks, a great whale of a ship, the Petunia, made way into Alexandria's harbor this week. The Petunia sailed all the way from Rune, and bears, it claims, leftover goods from the 5-year chaos on the island that only now is beginning to settle. The recently-founded wizard's parliment (who spend much of their time arguing various points and sundry, as is the way of proper wizardry), has licensed the Petunia to place these items for sale, either as a charity, for funds, to defund a political opponent, or...who the hell knows why wizards do anything anymore?

2x Headbands of Vast Intellect +2 (3,000 gp ea)

3x Potion of Haste (560g ea)

2x Scroll of Fly (280g ea)

1x +1 Flaming Battleaxe (6,250g ea)

2x Scroll of Heroism (280g ea)

1x +1 Platemail of Light Fortification (4,240g ea)

1x +2 Bec-de-Corbin (6,200g ea)

2x Wand of Mage Armor (560g ea)

2x Wand of Enlarge Person (560g ea)

2x +1 Light Crossbow (1,750g ea)

2x Gray Bag of Tricks (2,550g ea)

5x Universal Solvent (35g ea)

5x Soveriegn Glue (1,800g ea)

5x Alchemical Grease (3g ea)

5x Bloodblock (19g ea)

?x An unknown number of stylish wizarding hats, robes, and accoutrements

The Petunia will be in dock for the next two weeks before sailing on to other parts of Ea. Please +request to staff with your interest.

Variday, Rhaltaas 10, 1014

Word has recently leaked on the street that the man who tried to poison Steel Von Ironblood (Aka Jibbom) has been moved by the magistrates into 'protective custody' of some kind. He's been taken out of the dungeons and moved *someplace* less known.

Eliday, Daeshen 30, 1014

The lastest news is that a ship ran aground at one of the Lighthouses that dot the coast of the Alexandros region. Investigators found that some sort of creatures had murdered the lighthouse keeper with intent to cause catastrophes at sea. This continues the trend of strangeness at sea that's been plagueing the region.

Armed soldiers have now taken the island over and secured it, and other such lighthouses are now being fortified and protected from attack even more carefully than they were before. This is at significant expense, but clearly a necessary precaution now.

OOC: For rumors and general info, follow-up with: Constantin, Angrid, Vennan, Jessa, Munch, Quint and Mako

OOC: See Craft for details!

Kesenday, Daeshen 28, 1014

The Braggart's Cup was awarded to one Emir Zalaahd, eventually, but it was something else that occurred that caught most everyone's attention.

The story is that one Steel Von Ironblood was poisoned by someone in the midst of the festivities. While quick thinking preserved his life, the poisoned was said to've escaped...at least initially.

Rumors also say that the guard and several of the mercenaries present for the Bragging Rights night were seen at the docks, arresting a man who was trying to escape on a skiff.

Korday, Daeshen 27, 1014

Dragon in the Marketplace?

Frantic rumors are circulating that a DRAGON landed in the middle of the MARKET DISTRICT today! It seems to be in conjunction with a little shop called Sunwall Arms, which creates personalized weapons that, by all accounts, seem to be EXCELLENT at dragonslaying. (Sales projected to jump at least 15%!)

OOC: For rumors and general info, follow-up with: Jibbom, Donk, Spike, Teppus, Ormarr, or Achala!

Gobber Arrested!

AS a result of some sort of undisclosed 'act of terrorism', a Bludgunni goblin was arrested outside the city in connection with a failed attack on the Wayfarer's Inn. Apparently, he was seeking revenge on Alexandria for its role in Bludgun's defeat in the War on Sendor.

He is now awaiting trial in the Alexandrian dungeons.

OOC: For rumors and general info, follow-up with Abrahil, Ellerela, Myrana and Mikilos.

Gilday, Daeshen 26, 1014

INFERNUS

One fine morning, a shopowner on the docks found his window shattered. He walked inside with trepidation and found its interior ransacked, along with a large banner draped across one wall that is said to've read:

"INFERNUS. WE'RE CALLING YOU OUT! YOU WON'T KNOW WHEN! YOU WON'T KNOW WHERE! BUT IT'S COMING!!!"

Of course, the shop owner said that this had a lot more spelling errors in it and being a clerk he had the time to correct them and have it make sense. Mostly.

Whoever this Infernus is, though, he appears to've made some enemies. The shopkeeper just wishes he didn't have anything to do with it.

Tariday, Daeshen 25, 1014

Fernwood Pub Home to Unusual Event

The poor Fernwood Pub.

Whenever will its indignities end? Tonight, everyone was enjoying their nice meals and some boy comes in and, well... he hands his cat to that crazy lady that's always talking to the trees and the cat just starts having kittens right there at meal time. A very inopportune time for the Fernwood's denizens -- some of which left the establishment rather than see all that while they were trying to eat.

OOC: For rumors and general info, follow-up with Leisel, Quint, Umien, Ellerela, or Achala.

Variday, Daeshen 24, 1014

Pirates Infighting

In the latest round of rumors and gossip, it seems that the pirates that have been plaguing Alexandria's waters have taken to infighting amongst themselves. Word is that there was a break down at one of the infamous pirate parleys and as such they aren't coordinated like they used to be.

That said, even with the pirates being less of a threat, ship disappearances are still happening with alarming regularity. The Alexandrian navy has stepped up patrols of the waters and that does seem to have had a deterrent effect, to some degree, but now one or two *navy* vessels have gone missing.

Needless to say, this is of a concern to merchants everywhere. Sea travel is dangerous enough as it is, after all, and this is raising tensions between the Airship Sailors and their sea-traveling cousins as they compete for contracts.

The government is beginning to put price controls in place to ensure there's not a repeat of the price-gouging that happened last year during the 'false mists'.

OOC: For rumors and general info, follow-up with Aenyn, Jibbom, Donk, Emir, Kilian, or Ormarr ICly

Ceriday, Daeshen 22, 1014

Teresa

Her name was Teresa.

Few figures mark the center of a tragedy so well as a small child. Teresa, a young girl of twelve was slain this evening in the dualy-guarded space between two rival houses. A group of adventurers found her slain, most of her face missing by an attack of an unnatural creature.

As the Watch conducts its search and the Mourners prepare her body, those of Tradition and those of Artifice accuse one another over how the creature was let into Sage Orum's Plaza, though the Watch has named no one officially...

...or even if there was a murder.

Or an accident.

As of this time, no one is certain. As a consequence, tensions will remain higher between the two groups, though this is not expected to last. The heads of both organizations have been engaging in a public, joint effort to address the mess left behind, which has had some impact.

The family of the girl, who are tied to the river-merchants, could not be reached for comment.

OOC: For rumors and general info, follow-up with Jibbom, Sonja, Saevrinimata, or Zalara ICly.

Korday, Daeshen 13, 1014

Limited Edition

In recent days a new line of collectable plush toys have been seen around the city, often in the hands of small children, but on occasion held tightly by an adult Collector. The source of these toys is uncertain, but rumors persist of a laughing wizard handing them out at the orphanage. Rare, but occasionally posted flyers detail some of the options.

Bane of Night:

Dashing adventure abounds with this wondrous plushie! Based on the local hero, this plush item has authentic features and wardrobe modeled after the real Bane of Night! (Additional Wardrobe pieces not included.) Squeeze the belly to hear real quotes!

"Steel von Ironblood, Bane of Night!"

"Have at thee, foul beast!"

"Now now ladies, settle down!"

BrightScale of Am'shere:

Delightfully soft and adorably squishable, this popular plush is based upon another local hero. Hand dyed armor and tabbard are made from all natural fibers, guaranteed to last years of playtime! (Swiftclaw Riding Accessory not included.) Squeeze the belly to hear real quotes!

"......mmm."

".....ah."

"....."

Lady Sandiel:

A wildly popular model based upon the true lady of Alexandria, this plush comes with extended wardrobe and bustle. Delux hips and blunt objects come standard! Squeeze the belly (carefully) to hear real quotes!

"What do you want?"

"How'd you get in here?"

"Get that damn ---! outta my face!"

Donk:

The sheer awesome which is Donk cannot be contained in plush form. We're sorry.

OOC: See Mikilos for rumor details.

Tariday Daeshen 4, 1014

The Spell Canon

Once, Alexandros had a weapon.

This weapon, the Planar Disjunction Cannon, was of Kulthian design. While how it was built is one lost art amongst many, what it did was unleash a great torrent of energy powerfful enough to ccut a swath of destruction across the land and to destroy enemiy ships, armies... or floating fortresses.

Indeed, the last time the Cannon was used was during the Illuminated Order War, where it was fired at the floating fortress Merkabah which was then brought low. This lead to the defeat of the supposed Kulthian remnants that lead this force, but it was not without cost. The Spell Cannon itself was then targeted by a direct exposure to the Elemental Plane of Earth -- which turned the complex in the Red Ridge Mountains itself into stone and unleashed numerous earth elementals into the countryside. While this thread has since been neutralized, the complex itself remains useless and transformed, with little being done about it.

Until now, anyways. With the increasing threat of piracy and more, the City Council of Alexandria has announced that it intends to seek a way to reclaim the Spell Cannon so that it can be revived and once again serve as a detrrent and weapon against those who threaten the fair city of Alexandria and its allies. Researchers from the local societies of Engineers and Wizrds have been called in to study the problems. Solutions are being devised.

Or say they say.

OOC: See Whirlpool for rumor details.

Korday, Daeshen 06, 1014

Summer Flu

A summer flu has broken out amongst the denizens of lower Alexandria.

People are flocking to the Soldier's Defense hospital for treatment and the Hearthguards are doing their best, with help from the other churches, to contain the outbreak before it actually takes any lives. The illness is not particularly serious and runs its course after a day or two, though takes a little longer for the elderly and the children.

If you're a cleric, you've probably got your hands full.

Kesenday, Callem 31, 1014

Demon Among the Quills

A demon ruptured the nominal quiet of Quill's Repose this evening. Leaping onto the Lady Octavia's circulation desk, the demon revealed itself before beginning to set the place on fire. It spoke in a searing, unearthly tongue, though witnesses were able to make out the words, "Wrong!" though little else.

Two adventurers, who were visiting the Repose, stepped forward as the creature began to wreck the place. Working together, the paladin and a mage subdued the creature with heroic blows. The mage declared the beast was on its way to summoning more of its kind just as the final blow was rendered.

Cleanup will take some time; the damage is still being ascertained, though it is minimal compared to what it might have been. Wilder theroies suggest the demon is a cause of Taara's anger at being left out of the new Society's building. Others, however, suggest the demon itself was just spiteful enough to enact the terror it caused. "It could have been angry over a library fine," one magi suggested.

OOC: For rumors and general info, follow-up with Sonja or Mikilos ICly.

Ceriday, Callem 11

Jailhouse Bar and Grill!

The Jailhouse Bar recently had another fantastic evening of violent entertainment with one of their famous 'Fight Nights'. Some battles were long, some were short, but all of them were entertaining as rowdy bloodsport went on throughout the night. Victorious fighters included Kalkorth, Conquerer of the North, Angrid the Angry, Gragnar the Growler, Katja the Crusher, and Munchy the Golem. All triumphed against a variety of oddball opponents.

While the fights were entertaining, all agree that the show was stolen by the fight announcer: Steel Von Ironblood, Bane of the Night. All in attendance were greatly impressed at how the dashing and handsome halfling's running commentary added an entirely new dimension of entertainment to the proceedings. This according to Jibbom Taribree, who is quite happy to discuss this subject at length.

Gilday, Callem 15

Jibbom of the Mighty Thews!

The latest word on the street is that Steel Von Ironblood has displayed great feats of strength. Why, he even beat a tall Arvek Nar in an armwrestling contest! After this, he magnanimously declared that he'd buy everyone around him free ale.

The Arvek Nar declared him to be 'Steel Von Ironthews'.

No, really.

Tariday Aestry 31

Getting Together for a Hunting Expedition

Rumor has it that some golem smith is getting folks together for an expedition for materials, and has been spreading instructions for interested parties to meet him at his shop. Which golem, and which shop? Look man, I can't tell them apart, how many Golems with a store can there be?

Eliday Aestry 15

Whorls of Aether

Another day of peaceful worship has been interrupted by out of control magicks at the Temple Square. Half-drowned out by the raucous afternoon worship of the Tarienites, a handful of adventurers all but exploded in a brilliant flash of green light what devoured all by two of their number; a llyanesi arcanist and a Xian pugilist. Rumor has it that a giant bug of sorts appeared right before they all vanished.

OOC: See Halani, Jibbom or Mikilos ICly for further details

Gilday Firetide 27

Did You Hear??

Did you hear about Donk Yauti? Apparently he's some kind of king, or an heir apparent...I don't know, he's destined for some kind of throne. Some people were talking about him in the tavern. A gnomish cavalier... I know, I saw him dragging that gaggle of orphans along behind him, singing about him. They must know something we don't, because apparently he toppled a kingdom! And not just any kingdom, but one that was conspiring against Alexandria itself! ...where? Somewhere underground, I think. Enemies of House Brache.

You don't know House Brache? Well, they were only one of the foremost secretive houses standing against the Sorceress Altima, at great risk to themselves! Yeah, heroes, yeah.

Speaking of heroes, did you see that game of Tarienball? I'm not sure what to make of that...

Variday Firetide 18

Strange Dancers

Quite a few people are speaking of seeing something quite strange, but all of them have close to the same account of what happened.

In the light of the full moon, a strange dancer can be seen on the rooftops of a few buildings. Those that actually get more than a passing glance see the strange flowing dance of the veiled dancer, before the dancer disappears from sight. None have gotten a good and clear look at this dancer, but most have put it upon the strange practices of the upcoming Sky Dancers Song holiday that is coming up. (by Moonshadow)

Ceriday Firetide 17

Tarien's Miracle

As usual, rumors are circulating the taverns. Less usual? Their subject. Apparently, Tarien decided to bestow a 'holy miracle' upon the people of Alexandros. While most got a good giggle out of it, most of the participants are... irritated.

"The 'miracle' involved Spikington McChairFoe, beloved so-called 'saint' of the carpenter's guild and Greta. Apparently, an altercation near the fountain in the temple square happened when the insane golem was apparently 'provoked' by a trio of poo-flinging monkeys. Then more monkeys showed up, gilded in gold, a sure sign of Tarien's favor. Then? Then Greta showed up. Waiting for the really strange part of the story?"

"What's that? You mean that wasn't the strange part!?"

"Nope. See, when Greta showed up and ordered everyone involved arrested, including the monkeys... Spike took a hostage. That is, she took a monkey hostage. Then, to top it all off, she double-crossed a gnome or halfling or somethin' who offered himself in a hostage exchange, and ran off to hide INSIDE the Daeusite temple."

"Man. I don't know who's got it worse... Spike, who's no doubt cooling her heels in a cell... or the Watch who have to spend a whole night with Spike."

"Yeah. That lucht is calling it a miracle of Tarien."

Ceriday Firetide 09

Illothian Fallout

It's little surprise when rumors spread through the city that the Illothan 'announcement' resulted in (at least) one death. Details are vague and while there must have been more than a few witnesses present it seems as if no one wants to talk at length about it.

One of the Illothan acolytes--or perhaps a man by the name of Ted (who may actually be an acolyte)--fell to black magics, assault by the watch, divine retribution, or adventurer intervention in the middle of their announcement. The contents of the announcement are as variable as there are districts in this city but the two dominant threads propose either defection from the cult or the exposure of several, individual cells of worship dedicated to other dark gods.

The Watch, the Altheans, and the Vardamans are said to be involved (and maybe those new-fangled Serrielites and the followers of Daeus as well).

Details are lacking.

Eliday Firetide 03

A Contest Won

A contest was held at the Armsmaster Arena this prior evening -- a contest in which a chest had to be pried from deep within a pit of mud. Typically, many contestants became involved and it descended into a free for all before long -- though one individual had to be pried from the melee by Official Spikington Chairfoe, designated enforcer by the Angorites, for 'improper magic use'.

The eventual winner was a dwarf known only as 'Thaim'. He came to possess the Braggart's Beer Mug, which entitles him to the occasional free alcoholic drink at participating establishments.

Second place went to a fellow by the name of Conrad, who won the 'Running Away Boots', for displaying a considerable deal of intelligence and perception in spotting a second, concealed chest in the pit and escaping with it unnoticed.

All in all, everyone involved seem to have a good time, even if they got extremely muddy.

Kesenday, Hattanan 25

Bees a-buzzin'

With the recent announcement regarding Alexandria's construction upgrades, work crews are now a common sight, with pockets of them being spotted all over the city. A majority have congregated around the higher portions of the city's east. It seems the plan is for them to work their way from the top down, not unlike the way a sculptor would shape a block of marble.

Crews of laborers coming from all stripes can be seen working together under Khazad oversight. This is with the assistance of the First Blarite Engineers, skilled Arvek Nar who have been loaned to the city under the terms of the treaty with the city-state of Blar. While there are occasional tensions, most are simply happy for the work and the mass labor necessary for the project is providing a nice local boost to the economy that merchants from all over seem to be thrilled with. The already bustling city is a-buzz with all this new activity, and both the taverns and market squares are experiencing a level of jovial rowdiness unseen until recently.

In short: So far, so good.

Variday, Hattanan 07

Groups of khazad are being spotted around the city. These khazad appear to be taking measurements of various locations, escorted by city guard. They meet with merchants and the heads of temples, and fierce arguments, debates take place in angry whispers. Even stranger, they appear to be in communication with a number of Blarite, arvek nar engineers and their counterpart architects among the Alexandrian populace. Something big, some sort of building project, is on the horizon, and prayers to Reos are accordingly on the rise.

Moreover, airships loaded with masonry and timber are arriving from various destinations and orders to local quarries have tripled. Stone is being stockpiled as government coffers, swollen by the recent increases in trade, are now paying out to purchase supplies for an as-yet unannounced project.

Gilday, Bernfleur 25

Now, an even *larger* and entire cadre of Arvek Nar from Blar has arrived in the city. While they aren't saying what they're up to, they *did* arrive by airship and most of them seem to be, or say they are, veterans of the First Blar Engineering regiment. Many of them are recognizable to veterans of the Sendor War for their talents with building and fortifications and relentless and well organized drive.

Something is up when this sort of work force arrives, but it isn't clear what projects they might be working on.

Tariday, Benfleur 17

Another foreign dignitary has now arrived today! This time, greeted warmly once more by city officials, one Khazad straight from Dun Moridin, said to be a member of Clan Masterbuilder.

The ruling council of Alexandria is clearly up to something, though there's little indication just yet of what it is. Time will tell what the arrival of these dignitaries portends.

Korday, Bernfleur 12, 1014

An Arvek General Arrives!

Today, an airship arrived at the docking stations with the symbol of Blar upon its bow. Disembarking were numerous Arvek Nar soldiers dressed in their colorful uniforms, escorting someone who is rumored to be one of the leading generals from the military-ruled city-state that's allied itself with Alexandria. What reason he has for being here is as yet unknown, but it's more than likely for the purpose of high level negotiations. The numerous Arvek Nar soldiers that have come along can be found in the city, drinking heavily and otherwise orangeing it up.

Gilday, Bernfleur 11, 1014

A magical confrontation

Overheard in a pub, and onward, "So, did you hear they blew up the Fernwood last night?"

The half-elven bartender passes by, drying a mug, saying "You're *in* the Fernwood, Tarn, what'd I tell you about staying off the gnomish stuff?"

"It's a special occasion!" The drunken fellow protests, "The Fernwood's been blown up! So I had a little something!"

Tarn's mustachoied friend clarifies, for a third patron, "I believe my esteemed cohort is in referral to the events here this past Variday night," he says, with a deep, airy tone of pretention, "where this fine stablishment was qute nearly destroyed in a duel of the wizardly arts. If I mistake her not, the lovely and fame-ified Mistress Gelfure, who'd been accosted by a black-clad magician from Rune, doubtless some dispute about the finer points of the magico-arcane arts. Fortunately, a sister of the most blessinged order of the Hearthguard interpostured...

"She was four feet tall!" Tarn interjects, gesticulating with a whacking motion, "With a ruler! Wasn't she, Knavel? "

The mustachioed fellow looks impatient a moment, and continues, "Be that as it may, my intoxibated friend, it was a disaster barely avertified, and a brassy piece of clericking on the young devotionary's part, if I may say. Unfortunately, I had an urgent appointment elsewhere... Needless to say, all's not well in the realm of magitocracy."

Tariday, Bernfleur 03, 1014

A New Partnership

It began in the battle-scarred land of Sendor.

Centuries of racial animus and entrenched positions waged until none are left standing. Months of preperation going into a single day of battle where only one can emerge to claim the title of 'Hottest Chili In The Land'.

We refer, of course, to the now infamous Oruch-Khazad chili cookoff. Another one has been scheduled and its date will soon be fast approaching. Oruchs and Khazad have been hard at work, trying their damndest to conjure up the hottest combinations they possibly can to put them to the test against all who dare take up the challenge of trying one.

What's unusual, though, is that recently, Kembar Mudslogger, a wealthy scion of one of the Khazad Trade Houses that has begun the process of opening a station for his House in Alexandros, has recently been seen with what can only be described as his counterpart amongst the Oruchs, one by the name of Krevik, a member of Clan Drum Reaver.

The two have been said to've struck an unlikely friendship and were recently seen together at the Guild of Explorers. Apparently, they've gone into business with each other. What this portends remains to be seen, but it clearly has something to do with the cookoff.

Or at least that's the -rumor- anyways.

Variday, Eatonis 26, 1014

Reports out of the Red Ridge Mountains indicate that a volcanic eruption is disrupting trade and agriculture in that area. Its /entirely/ uncharacteristic, but nonetheless the reports remain.

They're followed by reports that ashfall, while light, is starting to threaten newly-recovering crops. Intermixed with these reports are others, more outlandish and less-believed, about winged horrors in the sky that come with the ash.

Tariday, Eatonis 20, 1014

The elderly owner of the alchemist shop has put in a report with the guard. Rumor has it that a half-elf and a stubby little gobber have wreaked havoc on his store, destroying precious merchandise and beating feet before they could be caught. The half-elf called herself 'Melon,' which is obviously a codename of some kind. City guard urges citizens to be safe, and stay wary of persons of ill-repute! And should you have any information regarding these persons, it would be well-appreciated.

Tariday, Eatonis 13, 1014

Recent travellers from the Empire of Charn indicate that trouble struck the city of Aby'ssa not long ago. A host of demons was said to've attacked the city center and was defeated by the brave forces of the Black Dragon Army. The claim is that this attack was caused by 'traitorous servants of the so-called 'Platinum Dragon. The priests of Maugrim, enraged by this, have redoubled their efforts to stamp out every trace of uncontrolled demonic influence in Charn. Word of purges has already begun.

Additionally, a seperate rumor indicates that the government of Charn has now placed a bounty on the so-called scourge of Versus, the sorcerer known only as 'Asumit' for having some sort of role of this. Apparently, he is not making any friends anywhere. Charn has indicated that they believe the 'insurgents operating in the name of the Platinum Dragon' behind this have stooped to allying with this figure. That propaganda might work in Charn, but pretty much everyone outside of the Empire's reach seems relatively sure that that is an absurdity.

Variday, Pryntar 06, 1014

Solis calls the white knight down

pure of heart to protect our town.

The Sly One tricks and white knight falls

and our town burns by Deceivers' thrall.

The rhyme has grown popular with children almost overnight. Urchins chant it in the alleyways of the western districts as they skip to and fro, clap hands, or toss rocks. Powder monkeys and cabin boys do their duties to the simple rhythm around the docks. The Castle and Noble districts remain free of it by merit of the school marm's switch and the stern looks and hard palms of nannies. Parents around the city wish they could get their hands on the ill mannered 'fugee child that brought such filth into their fair city but tracing these things back to their source is all but impossible.

Kids these days.

End Fake Mists Arc

Variday, Pryntar 06, 1014

With the mists dissipating and things beginning to really resettle back to normal, the fear that had locked Alexandria's people has begun to fade all together. Thusly, the merchants can no longer justify their higher prices. In fact, a mob recently drummed one out of town for charging too much. Once this occurred, other merchants were quick to show they had more 'reasonable' prices.

Variday, Vhast 31, 1014

Sometime in the after noon, there was some sort of commotion at the bank of Alexandria. It was surrounded by guardsman, and several people were arrested in what appears to be some kind of failed robbery attempt and a few bodies were also removed. Some sort of ground tremor had afflicted the area surrounding the bank and it is said by officials that this was part of a failed effort to break into the bank vault.

Those arrested in this attempt are now in the custody of the city watch, with a few more said to be on the run.

Variday, Vhast 31, 1014

Word spreads throughout Alexandria through news publications and rumor.

The mist-making machines that had brought such fear and terror to the area have finally been located and destroyed. The Taaran behind this have also been apprehended and slain, having taken over the dwarven fortress of Khamon Sotch and used it as their base of operations. The heroic forces acting on Alexandria's behest, ranging from members of the regular militia and the city watch, as well as hired mercenaries to support them, engaged in a titanic struggle over the fort before clearing it. At least one airship was lost in the ongoing battle.

By evening, the mists had begun to lift off Alexandria and, over the next couple of days, clear completely.

Merchants will be maintaining their high prices just a *little* longer from the look of things, but public anger on the overcharging has been mounting for a while and it's unlikely they'll be able to keep putting the screws to the populace.

Tariday, Khael 13, 1013

With the recent announcements from the government of Alexandria that the current mists are an artificial construction, and that they are doing something about it, people are just beginning to stick their heads back out of doors. Civilians are starting to return to the streets and to conduct business more regularly. Gold and red decorations, flags, and streamers are beginning to festoon the city in preperation for Yuletide celebrations.

In short, things are beginning to get back to normal, even though it is by a degree of inches.

Of course, the prices haven't dropped...

Gilday, Khael 07, 1013

Council Issues Statement on Return of Mists

The Ruling Council of Alexandria has released the following statement:

"We know that many Alexandrians have dreaded the return of the Mists that had locked our city away. After all, if such a thing could happen once, why not twice? But it is with determined satisfaction that we can state, categorically, that these mists are not the powers of Taara at work once again, but rather, the sick and twisted plan of one individual or a group of individuals, to spread fear and discord in our homeland through black artifice; one who seeks to exploit our understandable concerns. We have, through the aid of several of our very own local heroes, led by one valiant dwarf, Ser Otto, Son of Bandaerl of Clan Masterbuilder and his two assistants, been able to determine, through their efforts, the source of these mists as being from somewhere within the Red Ridge Mountains near the mining town of Denston."

"The Council has agreed to launch an immediate investigation into the area and has ordered the dispatch of available city watch and militia, along with mercenary forces contracted through the Guild of Explorers. We will find the source of these 'mists' and see to their end. Know that Alexandria will be protected at all costs."

Gilday, Khael 07, 1013

It has taken quite a bit of time to get the harvest together this year. With all the damage done by the mists, monsters, and fear stoked by various sources, food prices have continued to skyrocket. But today the government of Alexandros stated, having taken stock of all the food brought into the city from the surrounding countryside, that supplies are more than adequate to get through the winter and meet reestablished trade obligations. Even in the face of this news, prices have still continued their climb for basic food staples and have not yet reached their peak.

Though many farms were abandoned, city workers were hired to go out to the farms and collect what food they could from the fields and begin counting the tonnage secured with the help of adventurers and city watch alike.

While not everything could be saved due to the cold, wet and... misty weather, Alexandros' food supplies are now better off than they might otherwise have been.

Kesenday, Quintoos 25, 1013

The previous evening something went down in the market district.

First, there was a run on the alchemist's shop slightly before closing that resulted in everyone being thrown out.

Then there was an explosion that sounded like it came from just below the streets. Much cobblestone was actually damaged and a couple of manhole grates went flying. All of that was a prelude to the real main event.

Pastvale manor has always sat on the edge of the Market District, kept nicely on the orders of its Myrrish noble owners who visit during the summers.

Shortly after the first explosion, one rocked the market from the fifth floor of Pastvale Manor, sending a shockwave through the district that overturned carts, blew out shop windows, and more.

Rumors indicate a war golem was seen jumping onto the balcony of the manor shortly before the explosion.

The City Watch was one scene quickly, doused the flames (of which there were startlingly few) and took control of the scene.

One arrest has been made at this time and one guardsman is in critical condition at the Temple of Althea.

Eliday, Quintoos 20, 1013

A Heavier Fog

The fog has not gone away.

Some days, it is thicker than others, though not as thick as the growing paranoia on the streets of Alexandria and surrounding Alexandros. Whispers suggest the anniversary of the Return is near, while others point to the increased activity of the Taaran cults.

OOC: As merchants react to the unusual changes, they've begun charging more for prices. The cost of any material or purchase is considered to be 5 percent higher than normal.

Tariday, Quintoos 08, 1013

Adding to farmers' woes, weather in Alexandria has been unusually overcast of late. River merchants report tales of increased fog and mists, with more on the way. With the Mists so recent in memory, such a phenomenon understandably has many nervous.

In response, some merchants have been raising their prices. This practice has drawn complaints, though not as much as it may have a month ago--the refugee issue appears to have eased, as recently as a few weeks ago. Actions of a Hearthguard, along with a number of adventurers, are cited.

OOC Note: Despite +today, weather will tend towards overcast and foggy.

Variday, Quintoos 07, 1013

Outlying farms in the immediate Alexandrian countryside have been inconveniently abandoned by their owners. Those who've come into town indicate, for whatever reason, they no longer feel safe there.

Exactly *why*, they aren't saying as of now. This close to the harvest and with Alexandria's population still swollen with refugees, its worrisome to see any farm abandoned and the fields left idle as the harvest continues.

Ceriday, Rhaltaas 29, 1013

Harvest, Refugees, and Unrest

"Well, he says he found somethin'," says one doubtful-sounding oruch. He looks back towards a group of refugees who are busy putting together a large wagon. "That uh, Hearthguard. So we're headed out, I guess." He pauses. "Well, my brother's staying. He found him a good job, though--out there cuttin' wood and haulin' it in for th' farmers. Some adventurer helped him git with the Gileans. 'Parently so long as you're all respectful and plantin' too, they're okay with it." He rubs at his nose. "The Essence don't agree, but what can you do?"

Thus runs the tale from the Western wards of the city. As the Harvest rolls in, a number of the refugees appear to be preparing caravans, though not all of them appear to be headed out. Some appear to be settled, or questioning the wisdom of traveling during winter. Not all of the tensions are gone.

In fact, a small riot broke out the other day in the Western ward between a young arvek nar and a Dranei, over a reportedly stolen loaf of olive bread.

"I say good riddance," reported another refugee, who was leaving (her aunt and two uncles were staying). "I lost a child to those Taarans running around the place. We thought Alexandria would be the City of Hope. Well, here's what I think of that," she says, and spits on the ground. Flecks of blood come with it, right before she crumples into her sister's arms.

Variday, Rhaltaas 17, 1013

The guards have spread out into patrols more heavily than normal in the western district of the city.

A riot nearly broke out in goblintown after arrests were made, notable of one goblin named Teb the White. He is now in custody, being questioned about his role in black market trafficing of magical components and alchemical supplies.

Furthermore, a house in the western district has been quarantined and, rumor has it, a druid called in from the Union to look into something that has been found there. Apparently, some unusual plantlife was found in it by guardsmen and contracted back up.

Eliday, Rhaltaas 09, 1013

Markets Tentatively Surge with Harvest

As fall settles in, the farmers in greater Alexandros prepare to bring in the last of the harvest. Too, this year more than ever, caravans from all over the world come to Alexandria, to trade and share news in the last great Market season before winter closes the doors. Caravans from the exotic locations of Veyshan, from Am'shere, and more, and will make their way into Alexandria in the coming weeks.

OOC: Use this as an excuse to RP visitors from exotic locales, or involve your PC in trade and even inquiries into local customs. Merchants will be interested in what Alexandria has to offer, as well as selling and trading.

Ceriday, Rhaltaas 1, 1013

Word around the Explorer's Guild is more of the same. The collapse of the main chamber of the khazad ruins and widening of the first sinkhole that first led to the discovery of the ruins is still underway, held up by heavy rains to the north that have hampered progress.

The leadership of the Engineer's Enclave, the Explorer's Guild, and the khazad delegates have been in heated talks regarding renegotiating of the contract and who, if any, is at fault, but all involved have been tight lipped thus far. If exploration is to continue, it could be weeks or even months, though Alexandrians have gotten a taste of the wealth pulled from the ruins and the demand is high for more Khazdul artifacts.

OOC - This is my IC explanation for my extended absence. I lost all of my notes and maps when my computer crashed, but I will be piecing them back together and getting this show back on the road. Just bear with me, peoples. - Owen

Tariday, Daeshen 13, 1013

Wizard Taken into Protective Custody?

A second raid of the guardsman on the College of Magic nearly resulted in the apparent arrest of Madame Gelfure.

Harsh words were exchanged between guard units and the Madame but apparently whatever mix up had occurred was cleared up, as the Madame left the College under her own power.

That said, her estate in the noble district now apparently has guards surrounding it. Rumors are circulating that there may well have been some sort of assassination attempt and she was likely placed into protective custody of some kind.

A wizard. In protective custody. Yeah, right.

Variday, Daeshen 5, 1013

The Temple of Eluna held a quiet celebration and reconsecration ceremony last night (under the light of the moon, of course). It was more muted than most, but the high clergy are looking more relaxed today -- even if folks didn't notice they were tense before.

Eliday, Daeshen 4, 1013

A Wizard did It

Recently, a body was recovered from within one of the warehouses along the docks. After investigation by the guards and contracted mercenaries in support, some sort of monsters behind the slaying was found and eliminated. This in and of itself would not be so hugely unusual in these dark times but the investigation into the death appears to be continuing.

Recently, several guards were seen searching several rooms within the College of Magic, much to the frustration and consternation of the workers and academics there. These searches took most of the day. It seem the guards believe that 'a wizard did it' and plan to continue their investigation.

Korday, Daeshen 1, 1013

An hour before midnight, a piercing shriek hears in the alleyways near the docks, more to the point from the water itself. Crowds flocked to the docks to see one man sink in the water, his face a mask of terror and desperation. When the guards arrived, they found a corpse and talk of a priest fingered as the murderer. Once the guards were able to clear out the crowds, there is rumors of the fighter Alteri lead away bound for the guardhouse. Many tell of her also being drenched as if she had been in the water, and some speculation if she was trying to hide the body from discovery.

Variday, Callem 22, 1013

A Downside of Gifts

As the gifts from the Beyond, and from more mundane sources are poured over, scholars have of late taken a recent concern to the Council of Alexandria...

...and as a result, images of the Gods of Evil have been removed from the City for fears of security.

OOC: This refers (in part) to ramifications of the spell: Enter Image. ICly, all images of the dark gods are being removed, and nobles, merchants, and commonfolk alike are urged to examine the paintings which may hang upon their walls--images from Charnese nobility, even though political, might be considered a risk in some areas.

Variday, Callem 22, 1013

An Arrogant Gift Shows Llyranesi Return

Since the Fall of Rune, individual Academy of Sages across the world have been undergoing retrofitting into more local-serving institutions. With no instructors, money, or supplies from Rune, each one has been having to make do. Alexandria's is no exception.

With several prominent mages, such as Madame Gelfure leading the charge, with Baldwin Addelberg by her side, along with generous backing from High Lady Rawyn Telenil, the Academy of Sages is now undergoing large amounts of reconstruction. The final construction, aided through a showing of Alexandrian magic, will better serve more local, Alexandrian needs, according to reports. Instructors are being drawn from the local populace and prominent adventures may occasionally be asked to guest lecture based on their experiences.

Ambassadors from Llyranost have also set up shop there--indeed, an entire new section of the College of Magic is dedicated to the sildanyari mages and their teachings. For their part, the sildanyari have sought to make themselves at home.

As the sildanyar continue to step out from beyond the fabled veil, one can only see their influence over local magical culture growing, despite the tension this might cause. This tension can be seen everywhere from the Academy itself, and into local politics--whispers of just what the sildanyar have been hiding, as well as perhaps, well-founded worries over Alexandria's hard-fought-for sovereignty.

Gilday, Callem 17, 1013

Post Independence Celbrations, Famed Cookoff Begins

"We worked hard to get here." The oruch folds his arms across his chest. Behind him is the business he'd built--a small chili stall. It stands across from a well-known khazad vendor who even now eyes him.

The oruch's tale is typical. Rugged, inventive--is the Alexandrian archetype. A place unlike any on Ea and prideful for it--the people who saved the War of Sendor, who drew Blar from the reaches of Bludgun. The City who five years ago, stood being the place--not just any place--but The Place where world peace might first be achieved. The place where gods first spoke to mortal men.

Because every other Court is a copy.

And it's time to celebrate. Live, Alexandria! Today, banners whip in the wind, and the oruch decorates his stall in Alexandria's colors. Street-urchins wave copies of the Rose Treaty for anyone to read--and bards stand on street corners, telling a thousand and one versions of the tale to anyone who will listen.

The famous oruch and khazad chili cookoff will happen anytime.

Live, Alexandria! City of wonders, city of impossibilities. This month is the month of your independence!

"Siniath! Alexandrie!"

"Nuacht an tAlexandreann!"

"Korero! Alexandria!"

"Mrezne! Alexandria!"

"Alexandria-zagad Berud!"

OOC: In order: sildanyar, halfling, oruch, gobber, khadzul.

Tariday, Callem 09, 1013

Combined Myrrish and Alexandrian forces declare victory over demonic infestation

That's the word from the Alexandrian Council and Myrrish Military officers. In their first combined effort since the end of the Sendor War and Alexandria's return from the Mists, victory has been achieved against what was said to be a 'demonic infestation' that had been reawoken from the days of the Daemon Wars. Combined military forces pushed into the blighted land of Skald to the north and east of Alexandria, where the Demon Wars began centuries go, and were said to have decisively defeated the demonic legion in battle.

The Myrrish airship 'The Glorious Rendition', battle-scarred and damaged, is now docked into the Alexandrian Airstation, where it is undergoing temporary repairs before it will be heading back to the Bryn Myridorn for a more full refitting.

In other news, a meeting of llyranesi, Alexandrian wizards of repute, and city officials was said to be in progress.

Finally, the bounty on Asumit, one of the remaining war criminals of the Sendor War and the mastermind behind Versis, has been increased to 50,000 gold pieces.

Ceriday, Callem 06, 1013

Alexandria Celebrates Independence

Live, Alexandria!

For the first time since the Re-emergence, Alexandria will celebrate its independence. Every year in the month of Callem, the citizens of Alexandria and greater Alexandros celebrate the Rose Treaty.

This year looks to be different--it will be the first celebration since emerging from the Mists and Taara's Ravaging of the World. Its walls are packed with refugees, many of whom would look to make the City their home--or at least, a stopping point. Local priests, adventurers have been seen among these groups, organizing food distribution and calling for aid. A number of Altheans have been central to the effort, and donations and efforts to that Temple in particular are up as of late.

Just a week ago, temples worldwide sang with the blessings of gods, just as druid circles, reportedly, came to life for a brief moment. As a result, donations and activity among these places are at a new high and taverns are abuzz with ideas for reopening the Court. Even Ceinara's Muses stand to see some activity in the coming weeks as traditional songs make their way way in City-wide and new ones are invented.

These days, vendors' stalls are full from the emergence of khazad trading companies--and the alleyways dark with war over mercantile contracts. The recent Delve into the Citadel has generated rumors on its own--including that a number of treasures from ancient Khazad-Alexandrian history will be placed on display. And soon.

Among politicians, llyranesi ambassadors, once reclusive, rub shoulders with Alexandrian elite, heralding what could be the coming of a new Age...

...potentially the end of the Age of Man, according to some scholars and Seers.

Yet so far, it's too soon to tell. The local mage's guild has read the "gift" as a challenge, a demonstration of llyranesi might now that Rune has fallen. Madame Gelfure promises fireworks "the likes of never seen before" during this year's festivities. She's also begun inroads to increase local funding--which to some is seen as a futile effort. "It's the llyranesi, now," in the words of one anonymous politician. "They'll take Rune's place. Not long, we'll all be llyranesi-this, llyranesi-that. Going to have to look at ear extensions soon, you want any promotion," he joked.

Apparently to Gelfure, "We have not yet begun to fight."

And then, reportedly, sent a minion to fetch appropriate shoes. "Something with a bit of iron in the heel."

So Live, Alexandria! Alexandria, the hub of the world and the center of change, the herald of invention and creative minds.

OOC: We'll be making announcements regarding the Rose Treaty within a week. This will be a MU-wide event.

Variday, Callem 01, 1013

"So what is this?" the lean ambassador asks. The gobber tourguide eyes the llyranesi sideways--too danged /thin/.

"Not natural," he mutters.

"What isn't?"

"...eh," mutters the gobber. And he straightens his nobby frame, and jabs a thumb at the crowd of workers around the Memorial Gardens. "Buildin' something. Gonna be big, one of them War monument...thingers."

"...interesting. There have been alot of wars, of late?"

"...of late? Suppose. This'un's just a few--uh. Five years or so, to you people."

The ambassador goes silent.

"Heh. Uh, yeah. So as I was sayin'...it's this big project, see. Hired my company to do the fireworks, even." The gobber grins. A yellow, jagged grin splits across his face so suddenly that the ambassador steps back. Quickly. "You know how we greenskins like fireworks."

Even bigger grin.

OOC: http://forum.tenebraemush.net/index.php/topic,1158.msg6909.html, +map 11

Eliday, Aestry 31, 1013

A World Changed

There is a shifting in the balance of things. All across the known world rumor and word comes in of change and progress. From the shining southern sun to the clear northern sky, to the uttermost east and the furthest shores of the west, the gods move their hands in action against the recent usurpation of the balance. In their movements, mortal lives are changed and the world continues to turn. New scriptures are written and ancient ones recovered from long lost vaults or temples and cities recently discovered and excavated. The wisdom of the gods mingles with men giving rise to new prayers among the faithful and techniques to wield holy power among the paladins and faith borne knights. Light and dark and those inbetween reap alike from the rise of knowledge. One thing is clear, the pantheon either collectively or individual are not standing for Taara's usurpation of the balance of things.

The collapse of Rune has sent ripples through the world of magic. Where there was once one power, now many seek to rise. Free from the eyes of the old conclave, spell research, exploration of ancient knowledge and forgotten libraries and warring idealogies have begun to yield the fruit of knowledge without guidance and resulted in much by way of widespread exploration of new forms of magic and recovery of old ones. Some, however, attempt to fill the gap left by Rune. In distant Llyranost, the hammers of elven smithing and the pens of elven script making herald a new era. Their magic colleges, once exclusive to elven kind, open their arms to invite the presence of others, notably mankind, offering stability to the world of wizards that has not existed since Rune's fall. Even with this offer made, many who attend such schools know that centuries, if not millennia old, prejudices do not vanish over the span of a few years but they are eager to prove themselves while also accessing secrets that have long been kept by the fey and away from other races. Magic grows, once again.

Ceriday, Aestry 30, 1013

A hand written parchment note can be found in the Guild of Explorer's Guildhall, amongst all the other notices for bounties and jobs. The thin, flowing handwriting reads:

To gather funds and coordinate efforts to aid the quickly growing immigrant population in Alexandria, I am hosting a meeting in the Dragon's Den two days hence at dusk. Any and all adventurers are welcomed and invited to attend for the discussion of ways to best reach an amiacable solution for the immigrants and natives of this fine city.

Father Owen Tilgentor, Servant of Heaven's Queen

PS - There will be beer and other refreshments available gratis after the meeting is concluded.

(OOC: Looking to start the scene around 7 pm CST on Monday, August 1st)

Kesenday, Aestry 29, 1013

Airship Thought Lost in Mists, Reclaimed

Recently, a distress beacon fired from one of the taller mountains of the Red Ridge Range.

This beacon belonged only to an airship, bearing an experimental design and an engine to match it, known only as the Cardinal Direction.

This airship had been in the sky when Alexandria had been cast into the mists. It was thought lost. Until now, that is. The airship's beacon fired and it's location has at last been identified. The Guild of Explorers and several other groups sought to salvage it and it has been at last found by a mixed group of Alexandrians who have agreed to split the profits of the salvage.

This weekend, the city will be seconding a second expedition of engineers and their bodyguards to jury rig the vessel and return it to Alexandria, but there are whispers that such things are better off left undisturbed.

Korday, Aestry 27, 1013

Unrest has been growing in the western part of the city for some time. Owners of warehouses report the need for increased security as summer's hottest months roll past.

"They're pretty hungry, mostly," one guard reported. He was hired, he said, from the local guild. "Makes for of work for us out here, though. Over there's my brother--and then my brother-in-law. Usually it's pretty easy, we just stand here and look rough. Most of'em don't have even a knife. ...it's trouble when they do, though."

Reactions to the plight remain mixed, with support and opposition from both sides. Local workers complain of losing jobs to the incoming populace, while other areas report a marked increase in crime rate. Temples too, are reporting shortages in staffing and in the amount of care they can reasonably provide.

"I'm getting worried," one Hearthguard reports. "Althea gives...but there's always so much more."

These tensions reached a high point this last Tariday, when refugees assaulted one of the local warehouses. Reports from the area indicate they were looking for food. Others report a local worker who only goes by the name of "Younger" switched sides during the battle. Reactions to this reported "turncoating" remain mixed--Younger's had a reputation for defending "common folks" while another said the event was too much like Alexandrians versus Alexandrians.

The merchantess who manages the warehouse says enough was taken that others may be suffering--most notably the farming communities she ships to in the southern part of the Heartlands. Regardless of impact, the refugee issue continues to grow.

Kesenday, Aestry 22, 1013

"Think they're better'n we are," snorts one man. He speaks, he says, on behalf of a number of Alexandrians about the recent arrivals. Well, not that many arrivals. A few llyranesi have come into the City as part of a trade caravan. One of the first things they did was pay their respects among the Seers of Eluna.

However, residents comment on how aloof and how strange, the llyranesi appear.

"Them...whatever they are. Eh. Fancy names..."

Regardless of local feelings, the llyranesi do not appear to have done anything (yet, according to another resident), and one's volunteered his time to assist the Seers with the refugee issue. Mrs. Corinth, who lives not too far off of Firelight, thought she saw one "cracking a smile, though it was more like...kind of like a fishtail. You know, straight, then all the sudden it twitches."

One of the Seers commented that the arrival wasn't at all that unusual--"Followers of the Bright Lady, they. The Dancer's Song is coming up, hope to see more of them, really."

He added, "It will probably be quiet this year." The Seers it seems, have alot on their plate. The refugees (some from as far away as Veyshan, or further) have taken the City's outskirts by storm, and while the Hearthguards see to their comfort and wellfare, the Elunites have taken it on themselves to see to minds and curiosities.

"There just aren't enough schools, not enough Seers to go around," the priest said.

Korday, Aestry 14, 1013

Whispers of a giant is loose in the area. Rumors abound that a giant has been seen north of Alexandria moving through the woods. His great footfalls caused much panic, as random farmers or hunters took to flight to avoid a fateful confrontation. Strange rumors have circulated that a woman in armor with a Blue Rose accompanies the giant. Reports have come from the Druid's grove that the giant is a fellow druid, and means no harm. He resides at the Druid's grove to recuperate from wounds he sustained during his travels. Speculations have flown about as to why the giant has come to the grove, and why was he wounded. The Druid Grove guardians have refused to comment further.

For more rumors and updates, +bbread 7 ingame.

Korday, Firetide 16, 1013

As the Shadows in Alexandros grow longer, so do the tales. Among bars, among merchant-stalls, Alexandrians whisper of children vanishing, of a neighbor waking up under the bloodied auspice of a knife. Other stories grow, too, of a particular figure. A man in a light blue doublet.

The gossip goes that he appears around street corners and bars after sundown, and some braver sorts claim to have shared a drink with him. They say he snarls at the mention of the Dagger's name, and that he's from Dragonier. That he's Althean--no, wait. That newfangled goddess named Serriel (if she is, really). Detractors say he's little more than a common drunk. A rabble-rouser.

Rumors pepper his origins, which only increases the interest.

OOC: Shadowfall is coming soon to Alexandros. While not an 'officially' celebrated holiday, expect it to have repercussions. See http://www.tenebraemush.net/index.php/Calendar.

For more rumors and updates, +bbread 7 ingame.

Eliday, Firetide 12, 1013

One of the final events of the Tournament Paramount is the traditional boasting contest - where warriors and champions gather around a fire and tell tall tales of how impressive they are, inspiring laughter and roars of appreciation for these tales of heroism and glory.

It was held this night, and the noise of the event carried far from the Armsmasters' Arena, with entire kegs of beer vanishing into the place never to be seen again. While most of the participants were drunk as dwarves at a wedding by the end, it is said that something truly astounding occured.

The great warrior who called himself Ivald the Mighty, goes the story, revealed himself before all to be a celestial servitor of Angoron himself! He declared that even the Gods would know that Alexandria is a place where heroes were born, before departing once more to Heroes' Welcome. Perhaps, some say, this visitation was to assure the city that despite recent events - the Gods have not abandoned us.

There are also some mutters of a 'pixie thing' and a pie and some dire imprecations against Tarien the Prankster, but what these mean is more difficult to make out.

For more rumors and updates, +bbread 7 ingame.

Kesenday, Firetide 10, 1013

The Dragon's Den was the victim of bombing!

Earlier this evening, a loud explosion sounded from within it. This was followed by a crowd of Angorites rushing over from the Tournament Paramount being held at the Arena alongside Guardsman -- all heading there quickly from across the street. An event at the arena was even put on hold.

Rumors, no doubt starting with leaks from the city guard, speculate that the bombing was intended to kill several mercenaries to collet some sort of bounty on their heads. The identities of these adventurers has not yet been released, but no doubt people will figure out who it was soon enough.though exactly who is

The Guard is investigating and, amazingly, no one is said to've actually been *killed* due to the timely intervention of clerical magics, potions, wands, and even a singing gnome. Yes, really. Singing gnome.

The fire was quickly brought under control, the injured evacuated, and the Den closed briefly for repairs.

Thankfully, said Den has a long standing contract with the Enclave of Engineers ever since the 'Clockwork Beer Dragon' incident and it should be up and open again in no time at all.

For more information and news, +bbread 7 ingame.

End Fall of Sendor, Vanishing of Alexandria

Gilday, Firetide 01, 1013

When the Sendor War drew to a close, it came down with a whisper, and then with a bang. Its veterans now reside across the world, though many of them are here, in Alexandros.

The government of Alexandria, nudged by some scarred figure. has stepped forward and proposed the building of a monument to the sacrifice, to the heroes of this War.

So, our question to you: What is it? What should it be? What should it look like?

Please share your thoughts in the thread below. This, be it a statue, a stone monument, will eventually become a permanent part of the Memorial Gardens (11 on +map).

OOC: Please make these suggestions based on something your character would suggest, and don't hesitate to make this a part of your RP. As part of the monument, there will be builders and architects ongrid, and alot of, well. Call it political debate. :)

For more information and news, +bbread 7 ingame.

Tariday, Hattanani 31, 1013

"'nd then they come'n say we gots to let'm go! 'n ogre in Alexandria!" A watchman and a few drinks after hours spawns the rumor and it spreads across western Alexandria. Details vary depending on who you ask but it would seem that a feral ogre attacked a group of adventurers. The beast was subdued and handed over to the watch... only to have a pair of the adventurers return and request its release a few days later. Apparently, there was a 'misunderstanding.'

With no other witnesses and only the word of the adventurers as evidence, the beast was released from custody. Free again to roam the lower class regions. The culprits were a mul'niessa and a foreign human girl. Two people who don't seem to give a sniff about the poorer folk.

For more information and news, +bbread 7 ingame.

Tariday, Hattanani 24, 1013

Although most of the city's chatter and murmurings centers around the Tournament Paramount of late, there's other gossip and rumors running quietly beneath them. Some of those rumors follow.

One of the manor houses in the Noble District - formerly belonging to the ill-fated house of Mielen, whose last scion died some years ago - has been purchased by a rather enigmatic individual who, according to rumour, goes by the name of Lord Eff. Just what or where he's a lord /of/ is rather vague, and it's largely believed that he's a foreigner. Believed, because nobody can actually admit to having seen him. Someone's brother's cousin saw a messenger travelling from the manor to the Explorer's Guild, though, so maybe he'll have some work for adventurers?

Another rumor is stirring more in the University District than anywhere; it's said that the mage-artificer Bryan Dessek of Rune has recently uncovered some artifact of Kulthian origin during an archeological dig at the edges of Alexandrian territory. What it is, exactly, is a subject of wide speculation, but gossip tells that it was nearly completely intact.

For more information and news, +bbread 7 ingame.

Variday, Hattanani 23, 1013

An Alexandrian royal once beheaded his lover to save her, and Alexandros' landscape was the birthplace of the Mogareg. These and other stories are the focus of our Coming Home series, and are readable ingame in +bbread 7 over the next few weeks.

For more information and news, +bbread 7 ingame.

Variday, Hattanani 23, 1013

Great activity has increased at The Armsmaster Guild Hall; (08 on the +map) banners and various decorations to Angoron have been put up. Fighting pits have been cordoned off, as well as others challenge or contest areas erected. Some of the toughest men, so called Priests and Clerics of Angoron are seen teaming all over the large Hall making ready for the Annual Paramount Tournament Gladiatorial Games!

In the center of the huge Guild Hall, a large Score board has been erected, a listing of Events and Competitions are viewable, with sections to list all of the contestants. Events such as, The Strongest Man Contest, Wizard Duels, Team Event, and a Triathlon appear on the board and the list goes on. Located at the entrance of the Hall is an official Challenge to all those boasting of Fighting skill, to bring their Courage and Honor, to compete in the greatest Competition in all of Ea!

Opening Ceremonies will kick off the Tournament in three days, launching on Variday, Hattanani the 23rd (this Monday), and run for two weeks.

• Lists and rules will be given to those interested in participating.
• Come one, Come ALL! Great contests of Strength and Courage, honor the Great Titan, and show your skill in the Greatest Gladiatorial Games in all of Ea!
• Postings to Announce day and time of the Events...stay tuned!

For more information and news, +bbread 7 and +bbread 3 ingame.

Gilday, Hattanani 18, 1013

As the trail of caravans slows to Veyshan, so do the supplies of exotics. Crafty merchants and restaurant owners will be soon looking for the next big thing, though for now appear to be doing well. Interest in Veyshan goods still runs high, and the supplies, ideas, and goods brought back from this exotic landscape will resonate throughout society in the weeks to come.

Refugees, concerned with needs such as basic food and clothing, may seen occasionally purchasing glitter-covered play-blades for their children or a colorful sash. Despite the horrors of just months past (to us) or five years (to everyone else), the people of Alexandrian City look for things to distract them beyond basic supplies, to begin enjoying life again.

Other social groups have responded in a similar fashion. Ever the trend-setter in style among the upper crust, Madame Gelfure was seen returning to the city in colors best described as "Green" with a hint of "Veyshan Sands." Perhaps unrelated, the uniforms of the Society for Progressive Arcanists have changed again, and the librarian reports an increase in the study of elemental magic and genie-blooded ancestry. Whatever the cause, the Society is developing a reputation for being very "hip," which contrasts its previous reputation--as somewhat stodgy and "out of place," in fact.

"Veyshan Sand" appears to be strongly in style in the coming month, with some upper-crust ladies attempting veils--though placed atop the hair and edged with precious stones--and for the super-trendy, cogs or pieces of artificery in place of traditional Veyshanti beading. Restaurants serving spiced cuisine also report an increase, and a number of quick-thinking owners responded to the interest by expanding their menus.

The Temple of Vardama, perhaps oddly, has benefitted. Priests there report a slight surge of visitors to their monastery as interest in that particular fighting style has temporarily increased.

In the next few weeks, we may see a touch of red added to the colors of ladies' headdresses and the sash of swords as some of our local holiday celebrations begin in earnest.

For more information and news, +bbread 7 ingame.

Variday, Hattanani 02, 1013

The exotic markets of Veyshan received an unexpected traveler this last week. Madame Gelfure, decked in the latest blend of Alexandrian and Veyshan fashion, hit the famed Taashran markets. Known for her at times eccentric taste in hats and ties to the "Hats for Orphans" campaign, Gelfure is a well-known figure around Alexandria. It remains to be seen how Veyshan will react, although opinions among local Veyshanti merchants have varied widely thus far. A disgruntled speaker who wishes not to be named suggests that the visitation is part of a covert operations program, to sneak in "scum-ridden, adventurous treasure-hunters" beneath the cover of the Madame's more flamboyant personality. Others counter him by mentioning Taashran's two famous hat-crafters, Aliyah Essa and Qasim Vijaya, and that the Madame is already said to have planned a visitation.

The Madame is expected to attend to a number of diplomatic visits while in the area, on behalf of the recently restructured Society of Progressive Arcanists.

For more information and news, +bbread 7 ingame.

Korday, Bernfleur 14, 1013

Things are changing in Alexandria's political climate. Merchants already overtaxed in efforts to reestablish contacts and routes, and in competition with new, stronger dwarven companies, now find themselves facing a threat from the land of genies: Veyshan.

It started with one man, as such things do. A stranger in silks and turbans and astride a sleek black charger, he came bearing items the like which the lands had not seen in centuries. And after him, another.

The exotic merchants from the sands trickle inwards with ever-rarer treasures. Tales of uncovered cities, exposed ruins.

And adventures.

So far as anyone can tell, a new series of ruins have been discovered.

And Alexandrian Merchants, and the Explorer's Guild recognize an opportunity when they see one. Even now, contracts are being issued, and caravans planned.

For more information and news, +bbread 7 ingame.

Ceriday, Bernfleur 09, 1013

Tragedy struck the Myrrish celebration this last Kesenday. The Magistrate held a celebration for the men and women who had worked so hard to make Sendor possible, and found himself nearly poisoned. The poisoning was averted thanks to the acts of several quick-thinking guests. No one has yet claimed responsibility, though the name of the foul god Gunahkar has been spoken by more than one set of lips.

For more information and news, +bbread 7 ingame.

Eliday, Eatonis 27, 1013

"If you go there, you hire someone. You hire alot of someones, and even then? Even then you think about it," are the reports heard from merchants when there isn't outright refusal. The latest is a barrel-chested dwarf with bristling beard and the wide stance of his race. His name is Cal Stonecutter, and he represents the last in a long line of attempted travelers to the pass near the Crumbled Tower. His race makes it all the more remarkable.

Since Taara's Revenge, the dwarves have taken the lead in recovery efforts and exploration. Their stalwart caravans travel on roads no other man would dare. In recent years, they emerged from their Mountain on a quest to reforge communities and bring trade and food to areas nearly fogotten and decimated in 5 years of destruction and chaos.

For Cal to take such a stance, the Pass must be bad. As he says this, the banner of Reos the Builder flaps in the wind behind him. Many of the dwarves march under Him, though of late a new face has been seen, too. A symbol with two gladius' and a spear crossed over a round shield. They call Her the "Rising Dawn."

Other reports continue to trickle in.

For more information and news, +bbread 7 ingame.

Korday, Eatonis 17, 1013

Gurin Ashvine hasn't been seen. At least, that's according to the rumor mill. Building whispers in the adventurers' quarters suggest he was kidnapped on his way to the most holy of holies, the Eidolon Court.

Whether he survived or not, or whether the events are true remains debatable--and officials aren't talking. Tensions build, however, as mercenaries within the city prepare for potential contracts. Those in the religious orders see their superiors worried and muttering. And some of them--well, it's hard to explain the mysterious absences. Or--the whispers of Gunakhar's stirring.

For more information and news, +bbread 7 ingame.

Ceriday, Eatonis 12, 1013

The Red Ridge Mountains have always been a place from which greater Alexandros draws considerable mineral wealth. With the advent of airships, the process of bringing ore from the mines to refineries within Alexandria has become even easier, providing a not inconsiderable source of wealth for Alexandrians and a rugged community of mining towns along the mountains themselves.

Before the advent of airships, though, there were numerous passes through which transit had to be arranged and tolls paid. A network of forts, towers, and outposts were necessary to secure them against the various threats of bandits, raiders, and monsters and to ensure the orderly transfer of goods and secure trade. Many of these are no longer manned but that doesn't mean the passes that are still mapped aren't used.

One particular pass known as the Crumbled Tower has recently come under scrutiny. Merchants passing through claim to've seen strange things--shadowy figures moving through the night and stranger sounds along the roadsides. It has rapidly developed a reputation as being haunted.

Worse, some men claim to've seen a great winged beast in the sky, giving rise to fears that a dragon may've taken up residence in the Red Ridge Mountains for the first time in some years. Alexandrian military airships are already being diverted to the mountains, indicating enough reports of the beast have been seen to encourage a show of force by the local governments.

Further rumors indicate that bands of adventurers may be hired to ensure that there is nothing to these stories than frightened merchants.

For more information and news, +bbread 7 ingame.

Tariday, Pryntar 22, 1013

As light falls over Alexandria, it illuminates a city in turmoil. Members long-established hustle about with bowed shoulders and hold conversations in whispers. The governing houses stand flush with faces old and new, with politicians visiting from different lands. Traders, many of them dwarven and others eager for news and renewed ties, begin their initial forays.

When Alexandria vanished, rumors now hold that its underside did not, and creatures and horrors unknown settled beneath the once-familiar landscape. City workers complain of species never known before. The City stuggles to contain the problem: priests are called in daily for exorcisms, and adventurers with their swords. Racial tensions rise in some areas, and adventurers are asked to defend even kobolds.

As Alexandria adjusts to the changed world around it, news continues to arrive on the feet of tradesmen and family letters. Dragonier lies in ruins, rumors say, its carcass watched over by some dread overlord. Traders claim him to be ten stories tall, others larger--while some suggest he wears the guise of a hobgoblin. Even Charn does not seem immune; no few travelers draw the Sign of Triangles over their breast when speaking of it, in order to ward away Thul's Eye. Other rumors persist of a demonic sorceress from the mists and an unknown tyrant.

For more information and news, +bbread 7 ingame.

Gilday, Pryntar 2, 1013

Recently, a pair of Myrrish Magistrates have been seen nosing around the city of Alexandria. The Magistrates are leading the charge in attempting to locate the missing Myrrish King on behalf of the feuding, royal brothers who now contend for his throne. King Serenas, who vanished when Alexandria was plunged into the mists, has not yet been located.

It is rumored that their meeting with the ruling council did not go well but that they were granted sanction to continue their investigations.

They have already taken to questioning those who witnessed the event at the Eidolon Court and no doubt have other things on their agenda.

For more information and news, +bbread 7 ingame.