Tensions Escalate in Royal Court!
His Majesty the King has officially declared the Dracoliche known as Whisper as a rogue force against the Sutherlands. As tensions escalated between our benevolent King and his Dracoliche minion, it soon became clear that Whisper’s flighty nature and her desire for power were threatening the wellbeing of the Sutherlands and the Royal Court. His Majesty graciously informed his loyal citizens of the threat, detailing the severity of her inappropriate behavior and ordering that her minions be killed on site. Not long after, missives were posted that falsely referred to Whisper as our new Queen, and attacks lead by Lyle and a flock of skeletal drakesbrought mass devastation on the citizens in Clanthia, as well as in Isles and Darkholme, as she vainly attempted to subject us to her law and will. Reports have come in that she was temporarily subdued over the course of the gather, but we surely haven’t seen the last of this skeletal menace!
Those known to be working with Whisper are the human known as Lyle, last seen wearing a Sudbyrian tabard, and two Zombie Masters. The Crier will pay well for information leading to the capture of the surviving perpetrators.
The Boatman Appears!
An old man in a rickety little boat arrived on the shores of Clanthia as Orcs crowded the docks, declaring that they were to send their Champion along with the elderly seafarer. A few educated individuals declared that this could be none other than the mysterious Boatman, a secretive individual who is said to take great heroes on a strange journey in exchange for an exorbitant amount of wealth.
The few that return are said to exhibit extraordinary powers, but refuse to speak
of their experience. While battle with the Orcs ensued and the OrcishChampion taken down, the Boatman’s punt was stolen, but subsequently returned by the mage Valik. He, Lorelei and Ethelred were seen speaking with the decrepitly old man before all four vanished suddenly.
TroubleinCarpathia!
The following Pamphlet was delivered to the Clanthian Crier a few weeks before the gather:
“Former head of the Horizonmen, PhillipGregory was obliterated for treason against the Empire in connection with his attempted assassination of members of the Senate in the Senate chambers. His fellow assassins are still at large. Any information leading to the capture and obliteration of the following
co-conspirators will be greatly rewarded:
BayleRheagar
Victoria Dresden
Beatrice Cort
Andrew Brendan
Kelvin Shaw
Senator Pompeii has been named by the Senate as Baron of Western Wall
Senator Viseregal has been named by the Senate to beProtector and Regent for the province of Entria.
Long live the Empire.
”
It seems that recent rumors of civil war brewing in Carpathia were true! How much longer can the crumbling Empire hold out? Will the officials of the Sutherlands offer their own counter-reward for the apprehension of these assassins? Kingdom representatives have declined to offer a comment on the situation at this time.
In other news regarding our red and gold foes, A number of Carpathians were mysteriously discovered inside a cave near the Clanthian Tavern last gather, despite reports that all Carpathian forces, notably lead by those listed for treason in their own country, had been withdrawn after their mysterious undead killing spree in October.
Some claim that the captured Carpathians were being held prisoner by undead forces, but some believe that they were in fact spies, in light of the discovery of 20 Carpathian conspirators who’d been living in the city of Tiksylvan. All of the apprehended Carpathians were appropriately dealt with by the authorities.
Zombie Masters out of control
Two Zombie Masters raided the Armorsmiths Guild last gather, imprisoning guild members. They distributed free wares and services, all the while billing the costs to Darkholme. These are reportedly the same Zombie Masters that slaughtered and animated countless refugees and kidnapped individuals who’d been forced into slavery. When confronted, they replied that they’d been following orders from “Her Majesty, Queen Whisper.”
Is this the last we’ll see of the Zombie Masters? Does the Dracoliche still have minions out and about, enforcing her false
law? Did the Armorsmiths Guild ever straighten out the tab, or will Darkholme foot the bill? Inquiring minds want to know!
From a Reliable Source: *cough cough* Clanthia’s Latest Rumors
At All Hallows, it was decided that orcs should not have boats. Ever.
The festivities at Feast may be more festive than usual this year.
Sudbyr will move against the Isles D'Honig while Baron Harold and his nobles enjoy Feast.
Ethelred has retired from his warring ways to pursue a new career, appearing on cereal boxes.
Rossonoe has been sending both naval support and men to aid Sudbyr's attack against the Isles D'Honig's port of Gille.
Baron Lamech has been seen with a surface elf girl of unknown origin. Though unbelievable and terrifying, it's rumored that he, in fact, smiled in her company.
The writers of “Adventurer’s Astrology” are offering a substantial reward to anyone who will find and return their lost tarot cards.
Recently named Regent Losar of La Rochelle plans to side with Sudbyr if open conflict occurs.
There has been a shift in the balance of power, and the Graveyard has a new Lich, who will be very upset in a year's time.
The Heroes Graveyard has been rebuilt using “The Ancients” method. In related news, reports have flooded the Crier office declaring that heroes in Clanthia were finally able to agree on something, and that only one individual lost their life in the process!
Morgrim has lost his once-innate ability to “defer-point” following his ever popular “point point” combo. The Sutherlands is doomed!
Baron Lamech’s PR representative denies all allegations that he was ever seen smiling at anyone, insisting that the fearsome drae was instead bearing his teeth in a threatening manner.
Top gnomish experts have discovered that bugbears are, in fact, related neither to bugs, nor bears, and regardless smell quite dreadful.
Things Every Adventurer Should Know (Or Else!)
The handy guide for staying alive in the dangerous world we live in
Trails at Night: Surviving an Evening Stroll in Clanthia
While normally, the city of Clanthia is a bustling, industrious town, filled with artisans, peasantry, and those going about the business of the esteemed Nobility, the common man finds it prudent to be absent from the City during the monthly Gatherings of Nobles, and the Adventurers who surround them. Such a collection of wealth and power inevitably draws the more sinister and barbaric elements of the Sutherlands, and the streets and trails of the city can hardly be dubbed "safe."
Adventurers, however, are not the sort to hide in their homes at such a time. In the interest of keeping Clanthian wealth in Clanthian hands, rather than monstrous, travelers are advised to keep the following in mind when walking about during a Gather, particularly at night.
Never walk alone.There is strength in numbers, and it is far easier to disable one mark than two, or better yet, three or more.
Know your companions.The most dangerous enemy is the one you trust to walk behind you. Choose your companions well, and always be prepared.
Always be prepared.Did we mention this one? Always make sure you are as protected and prepared as you can be. The Celestial Guild offers castings of Mage Armor (a truly vital spell) for a nominal fee.
Be safe, and die loudly.This is a maxim of veteran Adventurers who know that death is an unfortunate reality. If you do find yourself impaled by a blade, or immolated by eldritch flames, try to serve as a warning for others by screaming. Loudly.
Don't get lost.It is vital that you know where you're going, and how to get there – every moment you spend wandering in the dark is another moment you run needless risk. Knowing where and how to flee can save your life.
Employ stealth always.The enemy that doesn't know you're there can't maim and torture you to death. Avoid talking on trails, and only use light sources if you risk injury otherwise. Keeping quiet and dark will help you, and your companions, keep eyes and ears out for any threats.
"Who Goes?"You will often be challenged to your identity by those trying to ensure you're not there to murder them. Answer with your name and, if applicable, Baronial affiliation. Avoid answering with Barony alone, as this is commonly a ruse to lower defenses.
Stay alert.The danger you know about, you can avoid. The spell you hear cast, you can dodge. The brigand you see behind a tree, you can slaughter. Alert your companions to the danger, so they'll live longer.
~~~~
Thank you for reading Things Every Adventurer Should Know (Or Else!); next time, Three Spells Every Adventurer Should Know (and fear!). Stay safe, stay alive – knowledge is the best defense.
Who’s Who in Clanthia – Pickle
Pickle, you’re relatively new to town, but you’ve certainly become popular in your short stay. What’s the secret to your success?
"Hmm, I wasn't really sure I had a secret. Just being myself seemed to let people like me, and ignore the death threats from the others."
What are your goals for the future?
"I think all goblins at a young age realize that they're really not going to be long for this world, so as a whole we don't tend to make goals often."
(Cont. from page 2)
Any short term plans, then? Maybe a to-do list?
"Well, at the moment I'm trying to find a gnomish empire, a flying boat, and a stick I lost in the heroes graveyard."
How do you feel about the recent Orc attacks? Have you noticed anyone treating you differently than other townsfolk because of your goblinoid nature?
"Not as much trouble as one would suspect. Oddly enough I probably feel the same way about it as any other Clanthian. Since I was brought up in a tribe solely consisted of goblins I would imagine my first impression of an orc was the same as yours, brutish, violent, and scary."
I didn't realize that orcs and goblins were as different as all that. I stand corrected. So... tell us... is it true what mothers tell their children, that goblins steal naughty little children?
"What?! Who says that? I don't want your naughty kids, they're probably brats. If I were to take a child I'd take a good one that doesn't talk back!” The goblin chuckles, and continues, “I don't know if it's true or not, my mom said that humans breathed fire and killed for fun, so it might be true."
What advice would you give to young goblins, orcs, or other creatures who are traditionally considered to be “monsters” who wish to become respected and contributing members of society?
"Get something nice to wear before you even get close to town! apparently wearing plain green tabbards is as taboo as white after labor day and it sends humanoids into a slavering barbaric rage. Also, if it sounds like a bad idea it probably is; do it anyway!"
The Crier thanks Pickle for his time and wishes him the best of luck in his endeavors.
Adventurer's Astrology
by Astros & Stella Lector
The New Year is upon us, enlightened readers, and we foresee continued turmoil as the cycle of the stars continues. Our divinations show mass preparations for a great celebration, but the joyous occasions will be darkened by a presence of death. A vision depicting the thought lost 15th card of the deck transforming into the Hermit card is prominent in our readings, and suggests much conflict in the near future. Heed the warnings of the Fates, and may the stars shine favorably upon you all!
/ Taurus (4/20 – 5/20): You know what you must do – do not tempt the Fates by deviating from your purpose, no matter how hopeless it seems.
/ Gemini (5/20 – 6/21): Great plans will be thwarted by your enemies. If you are cautious, you may be lucky to avoid getting caught in the crossfire.
/ Cancer (6/22 – 7/22): Beware of lavish presentations, as dangers lurk under the pretty exterior. If you value your health, you should stick to the plain and simple.
/ Leo (7/23 – 8/22): If you face off against a wielder of poisons, you will surely lose. Choose your foes wisely.
/ Virgo (8/23 – 9/22): You may feel like resisting the direction a formidable person wishes to send you, but such a path will bring great changes to your life. Consider your choices carefully before you choose.
/ Libra (9/23 – 10/22): You will achieve great peace should you endeavor to undertake great challenges. Be careful of what you have identified this gather, for you may learn more than you ever wanted to.
/ Scorpio (10/23 – 11/21): Go easy on defensive potions and spells this gather – the more you attempt shield yourself, the more you’ll find yourself hindered.
/ Sagittarius (11/22 – 12/21): Gold and silver will bring you misfortune. If you find alternate weapons and bartering for this gather, the stars will shine favorably upon you.
/ Capricorn (12/22 – 1/19): When those around you are relaxed is when you should be most on your guard. Be wary of gifts, and your life force may remain strong this gather.
/ Aquarius (1/20 – 2/18): You are much in tune with your sign this gather, and you will fare well in battles near the water. If you make good use of elemental ice spells, your success will be magnified further.
/ Pisces (2/19 – 3/20): Be wary with magics intended to curse – you may find yourself the unwitting recipient.
General Forecast for Clanthia: We foresee a great loss of willpower by those that need it most this gather, yet whether this will prove disastrous or be to the advantage of our heroes, we cannot yet tell. The stars indicate dangers in the open shadows, but safety in the light.
Lucky Numbers: 6 – 5 – 1 – 19 – 20
What is this Age coming to?
In September, Lord Rove the Amazing took on the weighty responsibility of turning a device known as “The Millstone”, thought to be located at the center of Tyrra. While the purpose of this device is not known for sure, some say that it keeps a dangerous monster asleep and harmless, while others declare it is what makes Tyrra go ‘round. Lord Rove made an appearance in Clanthia this gather, and in one of his routine autograph sessions, he was asked why he was no longer turning the millstone. He responded that he’d harnessed a donkey, a carrot and a stick to keep it moving during his vacation. Does this mean that during the duration of the gather, we were no longer under the Age of Man, but instead, The Age of the Ass?
More trouble in Sudbyr?
Earlier this year, rebellion seemed rampant in the barony of Sudbyr as Jester and Iris were expelled from the barony on charges of treason in a humiliating display, and Forthas soul-destroyed until he died his final death for his seditious behavior. Though the barony seemed to have developed a far more loyal following in recent months, the following anonymous letter was found pinned to the front door of the Crier Editorial Department. Poems are often up to interpretation and the editorial staff here at the Crier wonder if this is political criticism, or just a bit of harmless verse. However, local bookies are taking bets as to who will get the boot from Sudbyr next.
To: Baron Lamech, General Seer
The Heart of Sudbyr
Many ask, but few will tell...
for those who know, know all too well..
There is a price in blood to pay, when you speak of Sudbyr in shameful way.
Know this if much nothing more, Sudbyr is strong to it's very core.
If you believe what I say is true, I'll explain the heart of Sudbyr to you.
To know who we are is to know what we do, heed now what secrets I say to you.
By forbidden magics of our hand, we raise the fallen of the land.
Blade and poison side by side, forever exist in dark reside.
Gaze upon the midnight sky, and know that never shall we die.
Know you now who we are, we who gather 'neath moon and star.
We who forever stalk the night, undying shadows in a world of light.
Let none stand in our way, lest they with blood be washed away.
No sign of weakness will be shown, for our hearts are as cold as stone.
No children, no creatures, no naturalist..
these represent what we must resist.
To be true to Sudbyrs heart, from these tenants you must not part...
Silver and black your heart shall bear, through it comradery you will share.
Speak half-truths to those outside, secrets you should ever bide.
smile not lest you should show, a sign of weakness that will ever grow
The rivers will turn crimson red, running with blood from innocents shed.
Now ask your self, and search deep inside..
could you walk at Sudbyrs side?
Ages pass, and laws will change..
Yet the heart of Sudbyr shall be the same.
If ever any in silver in black, to these rules do not act
Then this is what I say to you, to Sudbyr they are not loyally true.
In my time if you were anything but, you were removed from colors and your throat was cut.
Lord, and Lady, and Baron still... are as dust to Sudbyrs will.
Sudbyr is not a single woman or man, but the hearts of many and what they demand.
To all of those in ages past, know that Sudbyr shall ever last.
To brothers and sisters in ages yet, never forgive and never forget.
The Heart of Sudbyr...