The adventurers of Ashbury recently journeyed into the Enchanted Mists to a realm called Sovereignty, in a magical parade of sorts known as a Faery Rade.

It is said that from this realm emerges the power of all land-bonds with Amora Fortannis and Amora Dun. Along the way, the adventurers had to overcome many trials and were also pursued by the dangerous minions of the cursed Icenian King, Melagar the dragonheart who had fallen from grace a thousand or so years ago.

With artists and poets leading the Rade (which generated the power to awaken the Sleeping King), they reached the part of the Sleeping King’s tomb that touched Sovereignty.

After chanting the ancient required verse, King Gareth ap Moire (pronounced AP-MAWR) awoke. Bewildered and disorientated, King Gareth conversed with the Ashbans and was informed of the current crisis concerning the land and Amora Dun.

King Gareth nobly agreed to do what he could to help and was led back to Ashbury.

His Grace Duke Aramis Llyrr pronounced that if the Amora Fortannis recognized Gareth ap Moire as rightful ruler by the ancient Icenian Rite of Royalty then he would swear fealty to the King and a new nation would be born.

The Rite of Royalty involves the prospective Queen or King to place a foot about a stone on a special place, called the Mons Regalis. Legend has it that if the stone “sings,” the rightful ruler will be made known to all.

However, as Duke Aramis led the Ashbans toward the Mons Regalis, Count Requin Drager and his Maulers attacked from ambush. Although at first the Ashbans were able to rid themselves of the traitors, upon coming upon Count Requin and his followers were able to turn their lesser numbers to their advantage in a mighty battle at the lakefront where the Mons Regalis is supposedly located. It was a terrible and bloody fight in which many died, including His Grace and King Gareth.

Duke Aramis and Count Requin fought toe to toe before Requin backed off to fight in another part of the field. While Duke Aramis fought two Maulers, Requin struck His Grace down from behind and then drove his sword into Duke Aramis. Fortunately, His Grace has the ritual of Vengeance cast upon him, which caused Count Requin and several more Maulers to die upon the field.

The battle ended in a dark stalemate, with the wounded survivors of both sides yielding the field, dragging away the clothes and weapons of their fallen. It was noted that the Maulers lost much of their drive after Requin’s death.

Although many Ashbans fell during this battle, it should be noted that many more of the Maulers were forced to resurrect. (Requin’s version of the battle, sent to the Ashbury Times, is enclosed below without comment.)

Members of His Grace’s army were able to gather up belongings of the Ashbans after the battle, but as they were doing so, a strange mist began to envelop them and the Mons Regalia became hidden.
His Grace has announced that the Rite of Royalty shall not be stopped and is making plans into deciphering the purpose of the mist and discovering a way to dispel it.

Requin's Version of the Battle

(Editor’s Note:  The following article submission was received by the Ashbury Times and is presented here only to show Ashbury the true face of its enemy – Eric Woolcott, editor)

As the foolish Ashbans attempted to bind their King to some mystical power, the righteous and honorable Count Requin, savior of the people, led us against the fool Aramis Lyrr and the pretender King. Whoever he is, he is not of Ashbury, he is not of the past — and he is not the future. The Blackborne Compact rules benevolently over the former lands of Trellhiem, our Count bound with Amora Fortannis in honor, oath, and power. His rule will be one of the powerful, leading the weak. Those who stand against us will be swept away from the shoreline like a sand castle in a the wind.

As they strode down and defeated our weak skermishers, we made our last stand — a small force standing firm at the shores of a misty lake. Aramis the Fool attempted to banter, and Count Requin faced him down. Having been granted a small portion of his sponsor’s powers, Requin stood radiant as a one who is truly personified of a Dragonheart and we took no prisoners.

Ashbans fought chaotically, leaving sleeping adventurers down and caring only for themselves. We slid our blades into them, and sent them to the healer’s guild. With powerful swings Count Requin struck down Aramis Llyrr as we harried him like wolves on a powerful lion and sent him back to his Guildmaster dead. Count Requinn was struck by the foul magics of an accursed Vegeance ritual as he thrust his blade into pathetic Aramis, and our healer’s dead could not be healed. His great sacrifice will bring more to our banner!

This is not a threat, merely a fact: We will destroy you and your new foolish king. Your town is no match for our organized strategies. You fight like a group of farmers with pitchforks! You don’t protect your healers! Your casters don’t support the fighters! And you certainly ought to consider bringing some gas globes next time!

While we didn’t have poison shields the last time for the most part, our suppliers assure us we will be well stocked for our next raid!

When the time comes, our power will reign forever! Glory to Requin Drager!

Icenian Curse Removed

Citizens around the Duchy reported in August that record numbers of Cursed Icenians were seen clawing themselves up from submerged Icenian ruins across the Duchy. Strange individuals walked the Duchy with glowing symbols upon their face, causing massive destruction in their wake. Strange mirages and illusions grabbed people and monsters alike across the Duchy, causing massive hysteria and deaths on a wide scale. Researchers determined that the Curse of Glantri was responsible for these horrible affects on our citizens, and the hallucinations a facet of the Curse called “The Beguiling.”

One unfortunate night when the illusions were the strongest, these hallucinations played havoc with the assembled Ashbans when the Duke announced he would be executing all gypsies, and announced he was handing over the Duchy to Count Requin Drager. He then abdicated his Ducal appointment in favor of the Jester Dimsdale.

As Ashbans moved forward to subdue the clearly possessed Duke, the scene changed and they found themselves having not gathered in the Dragon’s Flagon tavern at all but in an old Icenian arena of some sort. Groups became separated and fought pressed battles against cursed Icenians.

Upon destroying these horrible Icenians, they found themselves in the tavern again, the hallucinations passed.

The hallucinations continued to strike Ashbans all evening, spreading among the populace like a wild fire on the dry plains. Individuals mistook alchemy for necromancy, saw companions administering first aid and assumed they were giving killing blows, were convinced they were going to explode, and other hideous misdirections.

Hallucinations and problems occurred throughout the days leading up to the appearance of a manifestation of Glantri’s Beguiling. The curse also corrupted dozens of monsters, changing their forms into bizarre and unimaginable things. Despite the cloaking of the monsters, Ashbury defeated the various creatures and several Ashbans found themselves with strange sigils emblazoned upon their cheeks. It is not known what these symbols are or what they represent.

The Lady of the Mist appeared with the defeat of the embodiment of the Beguiling and brought the Ashbans close to her. With her dulcet voice, she gave the citizens the cure to the Curse of Glantri, and told them she would dispatch a servant to lead them to the location of Glantri’s foul heart so they could retrieve it and conduct the ritual. With her aid rendered, she formed into a mist and disappeared.

True to the word of the Lady of the Mists, her servant Rumplewink Mistkin appeared later in the evening and gathered those who would destroy the curse. Rumplewink gave stern instructions. “Take nothing from the realm in which we go, eat nothing, and drink nothing — for you may lose your spirit if you do.”

Furthermore Rumplewink explained they were going to a realm in complete domination by a Dark Queen, where her power was complete and where she controlled everything. He warned that those who were rude and crass might find themselves permanently dead by her hand. With his dreadful warnings spoken, a mist formed and transported our adventurers to a dark realm.

The adventurers arrived in a dark amphitheater surround by black lifeless figures, and ahead an eerie light showed dozens of gnarled twisted creatures sleeping at the foot of a dark throne. Within the throne a dreadful beauty sat asleep clutching the foul heart of Glantri to her chest.

Rumplewink motioned that someone would have to take the heart from the dark queen. Storm the biata crept forward, working his way through the crowded evil creatures, and plucked the heart from the grasp of the dark queen has she dozed. Moving quickly the heart was taken to the Vessel of Vapors and placed within as Ashbans started to utilize the instructions given to them by the Lady of the Mist to end the curse.

Flawlessly the reversal of the Curse was performed, but the heart began to beat loudly as Rumplewink whispered the heart must beat six hundred times for the Curse to be destroyed.  Ashbans stood nervously has the first hundred beats came and went.

Then, upon the hundredth beat, the dark queen awoke and screamed, her entire court rising with a dread cacophony of anger and insane gibbering. Rumplewink strode forward raising his arms and hailed the queen. He intimated that ritual had begun and she could not stop it, and if she desired the spirits of the Ashbans for invading her realm she would have to contest for them. As they spoke and negotiated, the eerie silence reigned across the amphitheater — the heart had paused in its beating.

The contest was announced: The Ashbans would have to compete for their spirits in several challenges.

The first challenge was a riddle of great complexity involving ten goldsmiths, one who was cheating a king. After the riddle was spoken, Storm strode forward immediately with the answer. . .and the first challenge was taken by the Ashbans.

The queen mewed in satisfaction as she chose her six champions for the second challenge as Duke Aramis selected his six strongest. As the contest began, it was quickly ended as the Queen’s champions devastated and crushed the Ashban heroes.

With the contests at a tie, the third was prepared where individuals had to capture and extinguish the bearer of a glowing light. Ashbans succeeded in being victorious in that contest.

The final contest was a tremendous battle against Annis and her court, and although the battle was close, Ashbury defeated her court members on the battle field.

She screamed in frustration as a mist formed, and members of the adventurers beat a quick and hasty retreat from her realm before she changed her mind.

New Icenian "Refugees" Cause Population Problems

Thousands of formerly cursed Icenians are now appearing from all portions of the wilderness, ruins, and outreaches of Ashbury. Farmers, merchants, nobles, and even a former Duke of Icenia have been appearing throughout the Plains of Rage and within the Duchy proper.

Icenians, one horrid beasts hiding from the light, now are confused and dazed having been released from their cursed forms. In many areas, Ashbury has risen to the occasion and is providing blankets, shelter, and food to these thousands of refugees. Huge concentrations of Icenians have been arising in Blythedale and Nordenn in particular as they are apparently flooding across the borders of the Plains of Rage.

Icenian army units are reforming and in some cases pushing back Freejyn patrols from the areas North of Nordenn, but these reports are sketchy at best. Those reports that do come in speak of Icenians who are badly in need of basic supplies such as good weapons and food.

In some areas, pockets of chaos reign as Ashbans and Icenians scream at each other over pieces of land, in some cases held for decades by each of the families. Small towns have sprung up all over the Duchy as thousands of Icenians try to find a place to live and survive. Icenian nobles are doing their best to keep their people in check while this population and land crisis is sorted out, but in some cases even Icenian nobles have questions of allegiance and the status of their personal land holdings at issue.

Many Ashbans are doing their best to welcome these new refugees, but some are waging open protests against the new refugees, calling them “invaders.” One poor farmer, saying “No child of mine is going to grow up under an Incenian King!,” killed his family while the Town Guard attempted to talk him out of it.

Earliest estimates of the Icenians that have appeared indicate that the Duchy’s population has doubled! It is hypothesized that the population of the Duchy will have quadrupled by the time a proper census is taken, placing the population of Ashbury at over 400,000.

No information is available as to Icenians that formerly lived within areas of the Blackborne Compact, and no Icenians have appeared crossing from Requin’s border.  The former citizens of Corrhiem may be under his thumb, may still be locked within the jaws of Glantri’s curse, or perhaps may be victims of some far darker fate.

Wards Restored

In the wee hours of an early September morning, Squire Rasq Darkmoon set out with a group of adventurers for a Mage’s Guild task that would earn him Senior Guildsman status. Not knowing anything other than he was investigating a dark glowing tower protruding from a building, Squire Rasq would later become a storehouse of ancient magics.

Among those traveling with Rasq were Chieftain Ator of the Sand Tigers and Wizard Grandin LaMoore. Not much is known about what they faced inside the building but a farmer in the distance was quoted as saying, “I saw some strange black lights flickering and heard some kind of weird chanting. Somehow, the light turned white and beautiful, kind of like a fallen star up close, ya know? But then it disappeaered and I went to milk the cows.”

Rasq was later seen by a few townspeople going up to buildings that were warded and touching them. When he did this, a strange glow left his body through his hand. He travelled from building to building in this fashion. He began to shake and convulse violently just before crashing to the ground unconscious.
A large white light, later found out to be some ancient stored magic that he had uncovered in the tower, had bonded with him to revitalize magics in the region.

Apparently not satisfied with Rasq's slow mode of travel, it flew away to restore wards throughout the Duchy.

Letters and Postings

Citizens of Ashbury,

I speak to you with sincerity. We have had one of the greatest victories in our time, but following closely we had a great loss.

This letter is a call to arms to the citizenry. Now is the time for us to come together as a strong unit. We now have awakened the Goodly King and being in his presence has inspired me, but this is not enough. Inspiration without focus does us nothing.

The Town of Ashbury as a whole needs focus. We must no longer focus on ourselves but focus on those around us. We need unity and we need to work together well. When a person is on the ground, we must get them up and fighting again.

We may be brave enough in a fight to charge at the enemy but reaching their line alone is only a way to defeat.

People of Ashbury, as a noble I implore you to work together, and when a noble calls for you to do something do not ignore us. Most of the nobles in their positions are there because we have experience and know how to deal with such threats, but when people do not listen to us, travesties such as last Sunday occur.

I implore that the citizens band together behind the nobles and hopefully we will never know defeat again.

“One Sword to Keep Others in Their Sheathes”

Baron Jonathan Lornlyn Dragonheart
 

(Editor’s note:  Usually as editor I correct spelling and grammatical mistakes in the letters we receive, acknowledging that many of our citizens have a limited ability to read and write. However, in this case, I decided to leave this next letter exactly as I received it – Eric Woolcott, editor, The Ashbury Times)

To the people of Ashbury

Have you ever asked yourself why have so many ashbans, people like you and me turned to the side of darkness? Theres a simple answer to this question and that answer is the Ducal court and its laws bent to their will.

We’ve all seen on many occasions how our esteemed Lord Magistrate has passed judgement one way in favor of ashburys pride and harshly punishes Ashburys shame. But it amazes me how the shamed victims are also the same people who truly defend ashbury from outside forces, always in the front lines being true heroes of Ashbury. We all know without theses heroes Ashbury would have fallen many months ago. Yet these heroes are not proclaimed for their victorious deeds but are prosecuted for being within the circle of darkness and light.

This circle of darkness and light we all know of it but wont admit to it. The circle is an explanantion of all of ashbans true self. Masquerading as members of light but truly are minions of darkness. From the petty threats to the weaker ashbans in trade wars , true heroics only when the battle can be won but run like scared children when they know it is over for there court, Having squires do tedious acts of aggresion for the nobles have no guts of there own, And the Ducal court and there code of chivalry.
Where the duke was in hiding and had all his nobles lie for the greater good. I thought if you follow the code the greater good would come to you. What of the pacts and treaties they make without our consent with our enemies just becuase there afraid of overwhelming forces. so when we defeat one enemy we turn on our new “allies” to gain the upperhand. There are many more examples we all have but i’ve made my point.

Now what about the true meaning of ashbury? It’s people — everyone reading this knows they’ve broken atleast one or two laws and hope they never get caught. Aren’t we all villians at heart but only the ones who’ve been prosecuted are our problem.

Which now comes to me, I’ve recently heard through the rumor mill that I’ve murdered the magistrate and stolen the vessel of vapors and for these crimes which there has not been a trial but i’ve been convicted of treason. Lets first first address the magistrates murder, lets say I did do it. How many people are happy it happened? the answer is alot of ashban’s love the idea and would like to see it happen again, but no one will say so in open public becuase thats treason.

On to the vessel issue, supposably the lady of mist went to the duke with this information, is she some expert on missing cups and who done its? All we know about her is when she needs help she comes to us , creates her mist and sends us on some dangerous mission we have no clue about. So how is she an expert witness? Just becuase she says so, we should believe her — I think not. These laws are not equal for everyone and we know it.

Let me ask you. Do i deserve a conviction of treason without no trial and proof? The ramifications of this can cause an uproar within the populace. Does this mean banishment for me? Unfair banishment. Do you really want me out of Ashbury? And what about when its your turn to leave the light and enter darkness. How would you feel?

Voice of the people

Calis, Knight of Darkness
 

Dearest Citizens of Ashbury,

It was with great concern that I read the literary juggernaut penned by one Calis Blackheart, self-proclaimed Knight of Darkness. It would seem that he is now trying to start a rebellion against the proper and rightful ruler of Ashbury, His Grace, Duke Aramis Lyrr.

Now, it is well known that Duke Aramis and myself have differing and even clashing viewpoints on several issues, but I have never questioned his courage nor his integrity. Ashbury’s good Duke has both these traits in abundance. Duke Aramis is also a fair man, letting others who do not see eye to eye with him dwell in his duchy as long as they follow the laws he has set forth. He is much more tolerant of this than other rulers of other lands who would imprison you just for your ideologies.

Duke Aramis is a man of law and fairness. Do not question this, good people of Ashbury. He is a man of his word. He deserves your support and your loyalty.

Now onto the author of poorly penned treatises.

Prowess in battle and the willingness to stand in the front lines do not make one a hero. Being a shining example makes one a hero, as the Duke is in these lands, as I was in mine. War and battle are necessary evils, not arenas to prove one’s worth.

If you are truly so brave, Calis, if you truly believe in your words, if you truly think you are a hero to the people — if you are willing to die for them — come find me. I will give you the chance to prove your bold proclamations. I stand with the Duke in this matter, and so would be deemed an enemy of the people in your jaded view. There is no need for you to hide behind quill and parchment. I will give you the opportunity to prove your words. I am betting you will hide like the vermin you are, though. Like Ashbury’s Duke, I am a man of my word. If you don’t find me, I’ll find you.

You are a coward and a traitor to your own people and lands. You are hero to no one. You are defender of nothing. Your name fits you, you have a black and shrivelled heart, empty of any fire, loyalty or conviction. I shall present it to His Grace in a burlap sack, the only fitting container for such a worthless trinket.

Sir Frost Vardik
Knight and Nobleman
 

Calis,

There is no “side of darkness.” Each of us have inside them the ability to be good or evil. The difference between evil and good is the ability to understand and control the darker forces at work inside us. This understanding and control allows for the separation of those who are “good” from those who are “evil.”

Anyone can succumb to temptation and evil. It is by a strong force of will that evil is overcome, both on the battlefield and in our hearts. To myself, evil is defined as nothing more than the desire to reach one’s goals no matter the cost. Everyone has goals. It is up to each of us to choose how we reach for those goals; whether we will choose the path of good, or of evil; the path of light, or the path of darkness.

Not everyone is like yourself. You ask if there is someone out there who has committed no crime? I put forth to you myself. For as long as I can remember, I have obeyed the laws laid down wherever I am. Even more than that, I live by the laws of nature, of the natural forces at work around us. There is no higher law than the law of respect — respect of everything and everyone around us.

And I am no better than anyone else. I am no better than His Grace, nor am I any better than a beggar on the street. I hold myself to higher standards than anyone else could possibly bestow upon me. No oath can I give to any mortal being that would bind my spirit more than the oath I gave to myself. I have sworn my oath upon my honor. I will give aid to those who need help, be ever faithful to those who fight for freedom, peace and justice. Above all else, I will be true to myself.

Those standards I hold myself to, I see reflected in the eyes of the people of Ashbury. Those you would cast into darkness are if fact defenders of light. Those qualities you ridicule, which I and countless others admire, are seen in the people who you would drag down into your nightmarish world.
As to the “defenders of Ashbury” — Are you so enamored of your reflection that you place yourself on a higher pedestal than others? I submit to you that it is not just the nobles, adventurers, healers, and mages that protect and defend our way of life. It is also the farmers, the fishermen, and countless others to whom you give no thought. What would you do if you were unable to eat because there was no food? What would happen if there was no wine? Where would you be without the work of the carpenters and stonemasons who built the town of Ashbury? Are these people not also heroes? Do they not deserve our praise?

A hero is one whose care goes beyond themselves. Because of that, everyone has the ability to become a hero. What is a hero if not someone who will fight against the evils around us? Who will fight against the evils inside themselves? True heroes are not merely great fighters who can destroy their enemies. True heroes are the people who can gaze inside themselves, revel in the sight they see, and afterwards care not about themselves, about their accomplishments and deeds, but about those less fortunate than they.

As for yourself? If you are not guilty of the crimes for which you have been charged, come forward and prove yourself innocent. The truth will be revealed, do not fear. I regret, however, that your letter does mark you as treasonous. No matter your feelings on someone, you should show respect to them. You have shown a great lack of this.

Not only have you slandered the nobles of Ashbury, but you have insulted its inhabitants and stated openly that you feel the murder of a citizen would be approved. With your words you have proven that you are a traitor not only to Ashbury, but to everyone with a good heart.

Those who leave the light and enter darkness, do so of their own free will. They are simply not strong enough to resist the darker side of themselves. If you wish to think of yourself as walking the thin line between good and evil, than so be it. You are only fooling yourself.

I pity you, Calis. I pity that you are too weak to understand the truth surrounding us. I can only hope that one day you will open your eyes, see how far you have fallen, and try to climb back towards the light. I hope, too, that you do not bring others down with you. For that would be the greatest crime of all.

Kintar of Twilightvale
 

An Open Letter to the Awakened Lord Gareth ap Moire,

Lord ap Moire — or may I be so bold as to refer to Your Majesty? — I write in appeal to you, having waited for days outside the ducal manor of His Grace Aramis Llyrr, hoping for some sight of you and the privilege of an introduction.

I regret that the events of this past weekend, filled as they were with the matter of His Grace’s wedding to the lovely Princess-now-Duchess Lilyth Avacar, prevented me from meeting you sooner after your wondrous awakening from the sleep of ages.

Notwithstanding the serious matters with which you surely are concerned since that time, I am sure you will not deny the need to consider your marital condition — widowed as you are, and with a kingdom to consider.

It was in that regard that I awaited your appearance these past eight days, but I was not priveleged to discern your whereabouts. I begin to think that I shall never meet you face to face, Your Majesty — or do you seek to avoid me, Great Zook!

But allow me to describe the recent work performed by my firm for His Grace and Her Royal Highness, that you may better consider my resume in the future.

The swatch of cloth, Your Majesty, is taken from the same bolt as was used in the tabards of the lords and ladies initiated into the wedding association, on that first night’s Peering Ceremony. In truth, the nobles of Ashbury cut a wondrous figure, crossing the estate and chanting the name of the Princess and His Grace that first night.

I shall always remember the scene, in Duke Aramis’ ancestral hall, when the assembled Lords took solemn oath, and he pronounced them the Order of the Blade and Chalice.

Mark my words, this group shall do great deeds — Lords Jonathan Dragonhart, Daniel Star-Grimsby and Xavier Kimball, and the Ladies Natasha Roskaya, Celosia and Shya Corak, in addition to their leaders Duke Aramis Llyrr and the new Duchess Lillyth Avacar.

I only wish they hadn’t run off and destroyed those lovely tabards quite so quickly! What a rough and tumble lot these nobles are! More like to adventurers than overlords. But that is none of my station to comment on.

Here, too, is a copy of the gift list from the second day, when the loyal citizens of the Duchy did bring their goods to honor the bride and groom, whom I hope soon will be among your most staunch vassals. Such wines, ales and potions for Water; songs, poems and chimes during the time of Air; then jewels and crafted items in abundance for the Fire, and handiwork of the highest order during Earth.

E’en milord Duke and his bride were signally impressed by the sheer volume.

I am minded of a wondrous shirt and belt, the stunning biata diadems, a crafted wooden censer, and much more — and the gifts of the Rom, by my father’s ring! One would think they must be baronial vassals, to bring such varied and abundant presents? Why, the containers alone, of woven reed and polished wood, were beyond compare.

As to the feast, you may peruse here the sumptuous menu assembled for the occasion, on the second night. You may have heard of some unpleasantness regarding this matter, and I shall proceed with candor in this matter, milord.

Suffice to say that some of the Duke and Duchess’ guests were compelled to wait perhaps a third-bell’s time for their food. I admit it, to the detriment of the family business, the look on my guests’ faces, as they patiently waited through that disaster in the kitchen (not to worry, I fired that oaf myself for spilling a full tray of meats — drunk, of all the effrontery!) — patiently waited, as I say, for a bite to eat, and then to receive those gamey legs of hen, some as bloody as if only wounded, and some dry as the charcoal they were grilled upon! I felt such shame — but they were very gracious about it (Dark Elves, most of them, and each one acts like an ambassador).

But as these miscues are nearly unavoidable — e’en you have had a recent setback, I trow, milord, and no insult intended — one looks to the sincerity and celerity with which they can be made up. And for the most part the evening was quite a success, I should say.

That Wyndancer woman was a marvel in running the kitchen — you should retain her, milord, unless my firm beats you to it! — the entertainments were merry (though that Dimsdale makes me nervous); and what can be said of the Rom Candalis? She is matchless, it must be admitted by even the least enthusiastic.

As to the third day’s ceremony, I think you would be quite satisfied to inquire of any of the guests as to the taste and decorum of the proceedings. I shall always rest content, with the placid memory of that matchless pair, pledging troth within the ribbons (that Groomsman and Handmaiden regret they did not rehearse, I trow! Still, a lovely effect).

I only wish I had heard their vows, but the accursed breeze carried their words away from my station by the orchestra. When it was over, and the assemblage filed past the couple offering congratulations, whilst the orchestra played and the Rom danced with gay akimbo, I felt the tears well up within me that are always there, however many weddings I shall perform on top of the many hundreds my brother and I have compiled to date.

It is always the same, with me and weddings. As I hope it shall be for you, Your Majesty, when you have disposed of this strange business regarding your succession and the annoyance of this Requin miscreant.

I would not for worlds suggest that milord has his priorities mixed, I only wish to have the good word on your memory for the future, as one never knows when love shall strike. At that moment, for a king e’en more than for a commoner, it is important that all should be in readiness, for the expediency of the realm marches with the urgency of the heart at such moments.

Rest assured, milord, that in that time the firm of Blessed Bonds stands ready, and you may hold us to our word though we two might not yet have met face to face. I hope to correct the latter even as I serve Your Majesty in the former, at your convenience. I hope you will not delay too long — and fear not a winter wedding, for I have some wonderful ideas for silver and burgundy even in the midst of the Raccoon or Turtle that would serve very well.

Your Servant,

Mikhail Blessed
Family Protocos
Blessed Bonds Matrimonial Engagements Pty Ltd.
 

Open Letter to the Commoners and Nobility of the Duchy of Ashbury:

Thus far, you have fought well and have proved to be formidle foes blessed with powerful magic artifacts. But now that which protects you grows weak and soon you will no longer be able to stave off the inevitable.

Therefore, we are extending to all of you an invitation to join the Blackbourne Compact and pledge yourselves to Count Requin Drager.

His Excellency is willing to forget all your transgressions against his noble person and awaits to welcome you into the glorious service of the Blackbourne Compact. Together we can drive out the foreigners and plant the seeds of a new empire.

Those first brave few who join us now are promised great rewards. . . perhaps even noble titles in this new nation! Take the initiative. . .for it is those who give in to ambition reap the greatest rewards in life. When the new century arrives, The Blackbourne Compact shall be mighter than you can believe. It has been ordained.

Will you vanish in the ashes of Ashbury or rise into glory with the Blackbourne Compact? Why serve a struggling Duke, when you can serve a conquering Count!

Count Requin Drager
 

An Open Letter To Brighthawk

When we first met, you did not know who you were. You had returned from the dead, and slowly regained conciousness of who you had been. At first, there was bewilderment and then animocity between you and I, driving a stake into the heart of our friendship. And as tension subsided, trust grew. We shared a strange bond; even when I was angry with you, there was no doubt that I would never let anyone or anything harm you. When the Elves from the North, the Kanoredhil, first came to Ashbury, it was to you that I voiced my opinions, as wrong as they were. With my instruction, it was by my side that you remained durring those initial attacks, but it was you who was called a coward. When Baron Agnar angrily claimed that you were no longer a Kiergani in his eyes, I was too self-absorbed to defend you. For that, I shall not forgive myself.

And now, it seems as though you have yet again forgotten who you until so recently were. Just a few months ago, when we last spoke, you seemed sad and distant. I attributed this to your taking leave from Blythedale and the problems that ensued.

Out of all of the Edhil in Ashbury, I suspected you the least. (The former Sir Zachary Blane is another story entirely.) For the last year,I have grown used to the suspecting and accusing glares in town. I was and perhaps always will be looked at differently because of my upbringing.

But let it be known, to the town and to the Kanoredhil themselves, that I shall never join you on their side, Brighthawk. They are the Destroyers of Edhilkind, not the saviors. They are the bringers of Death, and I can never align myself with such a vile force.

I do not hate the Brighthawk I once knew. But I cannot say the same about the monster you have become. The night you appeared to the town as Tirilkan, I wished that it was a hallucination, or perhaps one of my many nightmares. Alas, there I stood, attempting to beat down someone whom I considered one of my few true friends. Something snapped within me, and all I felt was betrayed. I hate that you have spawned this within me. I knew that something would cause me to finally show my dislike of the Kanoredhil, I just never thought it would be you.

I was wrong, Fallon. Their way is not hte right way, nor will it ever be. I shall honor the promises I made to you in the past as if they were your dying wishes. You will be mourned.

Mithrauko is a liar and a thief. He has stolen from both of us. From me, he has stolen someone who could have been like a sister to me and from you, he has stolen your life. Becoming Kanoredhil may extend a normal Edhil lifespan by millennia, but more likely than not, for you, it has become a death sentence.

And if you ever wondered, "Dur Namarie" means "Dark Farewell." This most certainly is the darkest of farewells.

Magor Talinith'aria Lotelaure
(Squire Talin Gildenlily)
 

I don’t know what bird told you the gypsies were ununitable my dear Sue D'Onym, but you obviously are a victim of the typical gaje misinformaiton network.

Not only were we successful (In our own gypsy way) but we did recover some valuable information which will be of great importance to all citizens of Ashbury gorgio and non-gorgio alike.

And in defense of my sister Kheritana and the good Baron Jonathan, the only thing the Baron is guilty of is good taste. While I sympathise and feel for Lady Susan Stormholm’s situation, it is not Kheritana’s fault the Baron has had the stroke of excellent taste to prefer her wonderful company. If poeple got to know Kheritana and stop condeming her you'd come to the same conclusion.

And I believe Baron Jonathan to be a just a decent person, so who is to say their happiness is not deserved?

For being described as suck a fickle people I can site examples of selfless service to the good citizens of Ashbury (case in point:Guildmistress Natasha — I dare anyone to dispute her worth). Stop before you judge us because we are so different, get to know us.  I promise you will be pleasantly surprised.
In Service,

Glorianna Wyndancer
 

People of Ashbury,

I wish to speak of the recent death of adventurer Duren Axlund. I met Duren almost a year ago. When we first met it was when he saved my life in battle. Since then we have saved each others lives more times than I can remember.

He was one of the most honorable humans I have ever met and the only human I ever fully trusted to guard my back in battle. I regreted not being with him when he fell in his final battle.

He loved Ashbury and was always ready to fight in its defense. And now as I mourn the passing of one of my closest allies you should mourn the passing of one of Ashbury’s devoted defenders.

Marrek

Healer's Guild Report

As Summer wanes and Autumn is upon us, please keep in mind that layers are a must.  Ensure that you and your loved ones have plenty of blankets, for the nights  can be very chilly.  The Guild is holding a blanket drive for citizens of our fair Duchy. If you have a blanket to donate, please bring it to the Guild in Ashbury, or, if no one is available, to the Guild in Safe-haven. Those needing warm blankets for the coming cold season may inquire at either of these Guilds about acquiring them.

The Safehaven Academy has gotten underway with Autumn apprenticeships — if you own a business and need a young apprentice to assist you, please contact the Ashbury Guild.  The Safehaven Academy is a place where children of all ages who have lost contact with their relatives can feel at home and become a place for them to grow and mature. All members of the Academy are taught the importance of learning a trade and becoming a part of their community, as well as the value of friendship and family with their peers. All youths of age are supplied an apprenticeship of their choice with a local business owner, the artisan or merchant to whom they are apprenticed then have the option of hiring the apprentice once he or she comes of age to live independently. All apprentices are given a wage to learn the satisfaction of a job well done and how to earn one’s keep. The Academy is always seeking caregivers and Teachers of all kinds, there are plenty of eager minds, ready to be nurtured and to learn.

With the recent influx of refugees from war-torn areas in Ashbury and the former occupied territory of Trellheim, any and all generous assistance from the people of Ashbury is welcomed. The youth is the future of our fair lands, and is therefore one of our greatest responsibilities. Contact the Ashbury Guild if you wish to help.

The Guild is pleased to announce new membership:

Initiate Dhalic Rhone, Ashbury Town Guard

Initiate Glorianna Wyndancer, Ashbury Town Guard

Initiate Nariel of Imlidaar

Initiate Aislynn Ravenshire

The Guild is also pleased to announce that Initiate Shya Corak has begun training in the casting of Formal Earth Magics. Her dedication to the Path of the Healer and her mastery of Earth Magic has earned her recognition within the Guild, above and beyond her already excellent standing.

The Guild is currently seeking the following ritual components: Bug in Amber, Icon Life Elemental Scales, Icon Death Elemental Teeth, Warmth of Tyrra, Shard of a Hero’s Tomb, Giant Squid Tentacle, Trapdoor Spider, Drake Scales, Black Pearl, Greater Water Elemental Essence, and Rock Salt and Lime.

The Guild has Ritual Scrolls for sale: Spirit Farewell, Major Expanded Enchantment, Store Master Parry, Create Limited Circle, Spirit Store, Improved Duration, Controlled Spirit Store. Other scrolls available at the Guild’s discretion, make an inquiry if interested.

All sales and purchases from the Guild are negotiable in coin of the Realm, potions and elixirs of comparable value as well as trade in Earth Formal components and Earth Formal Magic scrolls.
The Guild offers many services, including: Resurrection, spell ink sales, instruction in Earth magic and the healing arts, training in herbal lore and alchemy, potion and elixir sale and trade, Ritual component and scroll sale and trade, Formal Magic casting, Ritual component identification, research in matters of Earth magic.

Necromantic items, potions, components, and Formal magic scrolls are purchased by the Guild for disposal. All potions are purchased at double the value, ritual components are purchased at the market rate, Formal magic scrolls are purchased at the cost of five gold per level of a Permanent scroll, one gold per level of a Temporary or Single-use scroll. Necromantic magic items will be priced dependent upon the effect and duration of the enchantment.  Turn your illegal item into cash!

Get involved with your Guild — if there is a way the Guild can help you, inform a Guild member immediately. If there is a way you can help the Guild — this is a Guild of the people, and by helping the Guild you are helping the citizens of Ashbury.

Walk in the safety of Nature’s embrace, a warm hearth and burgeoning health to all.

Squire Natasha Roskaya
Acting Guildmistress, Ashbury Healers Guild

On the field of conflict, there are always scores of men and women wielding weapons of destruction, mages aplenty dealing wrath from their fingertips. Yet it is the Healer, the lone Child of the Earth, who truly holds any victorious force together. Without the Healer, a great many more battles are lost than won.

There are many people who deem to call themselves Healers, those who wield weapons, alchemy, or even those who foolishly dabble in the Celestial arts. These people, however, are proven when a Healer's duties are most crucial  — at the moment combat is joined with a foe.

A true Healer knows their place — there is no glory or material gain to be had in their profession. Their success is not measured in silver and gold, their success is weighed by their effectiveness in preservation of Life, the upholding of a greater good, not the conquest of a living foe.

Those casters of Earth magics who charge into battle to fight with weapons or spells squandered on non-healing energies are not Healers.  Perhaps they possess the power and the words to heal the afflicted, but a Healer is much more than simply that.

A Healer dedicates their life to the service of others.  Selflessly they devote their studies to magics and techniques that are not intended to reap personal gain.

This is not to say that a Healer does not learn skills other than that of their craft. Obviously a Healer's skill is better served learning more spells and healing techniques, but on occasion a Healer may find it necessary to expand their training to include skills outside the realm of Earth magics.  In these cases, it is in the purpose and the implementation of these skills that true meaning is found.

A Healer learned in using a weapon does so to defend against, not to attack, a living foe.  In arming themselves, they do so to provide safety to themselves and others in the line of their duties. A Healer does not seek to pursue and destroy a living enemy when there is work to be done tending to the fallen. The Healer knows the priority to which their skills are fashioned, and does not falter from this distinction.

A Healer learned in Alchemy does so for the same reason — to provide self-defense should the Healer or those they are caring for be in danger while the Healer is providing assistance.

A Healer does not train in Celestial magics.  To fork one's path with indecision indicates that the individual is not prepared to truly dedicate themselves to the profession of the Healer. Solely Celestial magics are unique in that they destroy, no true Earth magic or Earth/Celestial hybrid magic is designed to harm the living. The Healer defends Life, they do not take it. Celestial magic, by nature, is destructive and therefore not within the mindset of the Healer.

All things a Healer does are to further the battle against untimely Death and Chaos magics. It is true that Death is an integral part of the Cycle. Death caused prematurely and not within the Cycle is the common enemy all Healers share.

The fight against Chaos magics is one the Healer places very highly in their regard. Chaos magics are the force that twist and harm Life and all that is Good. To call upon its magics is to tear asunder the very fabric by which the Earth itself is held together.

Undead in all its forms are the direct result of the use of Chaos magics — undead monstrosities are the personification of Chaos magics. Their very existence harms the Earth.  Therefore the one foe that the Healer pursues and destroys without reservation are Undead beings. Chaos magics do grievous harm to the living, but Earth magics wreak such havoc on Undead, the effects being double that of the Necromantic counterpart, that the Healer is the ideal Warrior to combat these incarnations of Chaos.

The Healer is placed perfectly in this role, no restorative healing magics conflict with the spells intended for the destruction of Undead; Harm Undead and Destroy Undead.  Very mighty magics are these, they gnaw at the very fibre that holds such evil constructs together, tearing them to pieces as they cleanse the Earth of blight.  Healing spells of the Earth are highly effective against Undead — a Healer seeks to use these magics in combat only as a last resort, as they should be used to aid the living first and foremost. However, a learned Child of the Earth feels secure that their healing aura has the potential to dismantle and cleanse even the most foul of Undead.

The Healer will always strive to destroy all Undead within their power — as through the destruction of Undead can the health of the Earth be improved.

Thus the Healer is made — much more than a mere assemblage of spell knowledge, a true Child of the Earth lives the tenets by which the Healer bases their existence:

•  Defense of Life and all living things

•  Prevention of Death outside the Cycle

•  Alleviation of suffering

•  Destruction of Undead

• Reparation and cleansing of the effects of Chaos magics

• Protection of the Earth

• Selfless devotion of knowledge and skills to this end

Squire Natasha Roskaya

Corner of Chivalry

How Does One Become A Knight?

by Sir Polycarus Imago, Paladin of Ashbury

Do you have what it takes to be a knight? Do you understand what it takes to be a knight?

To become a noble of Ashbury is to assume responsibilty for the commoners, to live your life according to the Code of Chivalry, and to do the right thing, no matter the cost. It is not the life for everyone, for the increase in temporal power brings with it a considerable amount of additional duties. As you can dispense justice, people will seek you out to settle disputes. As you can lead commoners in battle, you will be expected to do so and do so well. As you can own estates, you will be responsible for the maintenance of them.

It sounds rather simple, does it not?

Assuming you want the responsibility that comes with nobility, you must first find a noble to sponsor you as his squire. Any noble that owns an estate can take a squire, as many as one per estate managed. I can have two squires, while Baron Agnar can have ten, and His Grace can field a small legion of squires.

Being a squire, admittedly, is more work than power. You are expected to live your life according to the code of chivalry, but you do not get any of the trappings of power the nobility enjoy. I was a squire for quite some time and it often seems like it will never end. Let me assure you that it will end, should you pass muster.

Ashbury needs strong nobles to lead them. We have enemies on all sides, and we need dynamic leaders to defend us and once we are secure, ensure that we will grow as a nation. Being a squire allows us to see if you have the bearing, leadership, and moral fiber to lead Ashbury to greatness. It is the duty of the Paladins, myself, Sir Morgasander, Dame Glen, and Sir Rorn, to decide who is ready.

The Paladins have made an attempt to have a alrger presence in the area. We have met many of you, and there are more I know I need to meet. If you are a squire and you have not spoken with me seek me out. If not in person, then in prose. Send me a letter. I want to know the squires, to know how they think, how they react, what they desire, and who they are.

When I am in the company of a large number of squires, I will sit with you and we will discuss the Code of Chivalry, or other topic relevant to being a noble. This helps me see new perspectives, and it also helps me see, again, how you think.

And then come the tests. You might have heard of Squire Tests, where the Paladins hire an actor to put the Squire in a hopeless moral delimma. Let me assure you, these days are gone. It is easy to spot a contrived situation and act accordingly. No, we will not test you, but we will see how you respond in different situations. You may have seen a Noble put a squire in charge of a project. Real projects are real tests of character. I have seen squires lead people into combat, I have seen squires settle disputes. These prove much more worthwhile than any false situation.

The Paladins and the Nobility will work together to determine who is worthy for a Lordship. At that point you might be asked to join us. And that is why one would squire, is it not?

The Sage’s Guild would like to welcome the following new members as apprentices: Glorianna, Lyssa,  Maximillian, and Rasq.  Guild members get free teaching in a variety of skills as well as use of the Guild’s labs and forges.

We are accepting applications for interviews.  Please seek out Guildmistresses Zatarina or Shya or Guildmaster Solemn on Fridays between 8 pm and 10 pm in the Guild Hall.

If you would like to assist the Guild in researching teh Amora Dun problem, please contact us.
The Guild is also seking the components for Earth Invest and Vision and the scroll for Earth Invest.

Astrological Forecast

by Solemn Judgement

The tenth month of the zodiacal year is the Fire Ant, named for the ultimate soldier. These creatures live in the earth near volcanoes and other sources of heat, and are vicious when aroused: the animal embodies loyalty, effort and the completion of tasks. This is appropriate to the harvest season, when men’s crops — and wars — come to an end in preparation for winter. We enter the season of Earth, and the energies most evident here are those of Convergence. Now men see their efforts come to fruition, and oft times former enemies realize that their labors were unwittingly in concert to greater ends than their own.

The Fire Ant presages the Lion, which is the king of beasts. The stars indicate a time of hard labor pressed to conclusion, as soldiers obey their commander who follows them.

There are signs that efforts to do too much, too soon are doomed to fail: instead, we must look to the hard and costly ardor ahead before our projects can succeed.

With this indication of effort and toil is also the tint of impending Death: not neccessarily our own or that of individuals, but a drastic and irreversible change in something we hold dear approaches. It may be later in the Fire Ant or during the Lion that this occurs, but good soldiers should prepare.

These signs all take place under the red light of Mars, most easily visible about a third-high in the heavens during the night: this, too, reinforces the theme of war (or labor as hard as fighting, and as costly) and it presages the merciless Convergence of this month. Plans will collide, plots will reach their end, and lives will cross soon, without possibility of delay.

Your conflicts during Fire Ant are likely to be final ones. In addition to Mars, the Arbalest is still visible for part of this month, the last when this mercenary’s influence can be felt. Then too, this is a year of Scales, which still reinforces the theme of justice, final decisions and Death. The results need not be bad ones, but it is unlikely in the extreme that consequences will be minor in the days to come.

One final note: the Shadow-Twin has been dimly seen in the early days of this month, indicating the presence of some kind of doubling, which only increases such stakes as already described.
Guard yourselves, as warriors can, and be ready also to assign your loyalty to something higher and greater than yourself.

A Little Birdie Told Me

by Sue D’Onym

Hello, dearies, and time for the part of the newspaper you always read first!  (Why I am not on the front page where I belong is beyond me!)

Baron Jonathan scored some points recently when he discovered that the way to get rid of those awful things that pop up saying “Soon it will crack!” is by quoting the Code of Chivalry at them! Apparently, these nasty things are part of Amora Dun, so the forces of Good will dispell them. I say!  I wish someone had told me that before one of the nasty things popped up in my shower the other day! Scared the wits out of me!

However, the good Baron lost a lot of points with the Court of Blythedale recently when he made a proclamation that no one was allowed to say anything bad about Kheritana. Zatarina, who has been friends with the Baron for over six years, immediately withdrew all her support from the Barony, saying she didn’t want to belong to a noble who censored opinions or refused to listen to advice. More resignations are forthcoming I am told.

Fortunately for me, I am not part of Blythedale so I can tell you the latest dirt on the Baron’s gypsy toy: It seems that not only was the gypsy Sergei caught stealing, but his main plan was to kill Kheritana! She is doing a good job apparently of angering other gypsies (So called “king” Vlad didn’t seem to friendly towards her either), and her latest addition is Candalis. Apparently, while Candalis was bowed before His Grace giving one of her many gifts for his wedding, Kheritana reached over, grabbed an ornate box that Candalis was planning on giving to the happy couple, and then kneeled before Duke Aramis and presented the gift as if it were her own! She claimed it was from some gypsy tribe that no one has ever heard from and to which she is apparently the only member.

Find’rth and is dark elf friends got into some trouble recently, but they knew exactly what they were doing. They ignored a Baronial order that they were completely aware of and killed some snake thingies that apparently have been at war with dark elves for millennia or something. What a commotion! Sir Daniel was standing over the snakes, ordering the dark elves to stop, and they did not! Later, they turned themselves in to Sir Eros who pointed out that the issue was not the killing, but the disobeying of a noble’s order. “You have to obey noble orders,” he said, “no matter how stupid they may seem to you.” They paid their fine immediately.

Sir Eros by the way gave a nice speech at the Duke’s wedding where he decried those who do not believe in love at first sight. “Why, I fall in love at first sight a couple times a year!” the Mystic Wood elf said. Still, many are convinced that His Grace has been “charmed” by Princess Lilyth, and I don’t mean by her own personal charms if you get my drift.

By the way, isn’t it the law that you can’t be a Duchess unless you have passed the tests of the Paladins? I mean, Baron Agnar can’t name Lady Azrael as a Baroness because of that law, so how can the Duke name Lillyth as Duchess? Oh well, I guess when you are Duke you can do this sort of thing.

During the wedding feast a small problem ensued when the eldest son of King Zut Clag from the sarr kingdom of Junjeq presented His Grace with the present of a newly freed slave. It was not clear whether he meant the present to show that he was against slavery (which is illegal in his country) or that he had slaves and was now releasing them for His Grace. His mother, Queen Misaka, was also there and she apologized to the Duke for her son’s behavior. (His Grace took little mind, having had his first drink of Imaldari wine, courtesy of Kalcarin and Nariel.) Both sarr nobles were seen speaking in low tones to many people present at the feast.

Dimsdale’s song making fun of the noble court was a highlight of the feast, but you should have seen the young men pull their chairs up close to the dance floor when they heard Candalis would be performing! His Grace looked a bit confused by her dancing but enjoyed it (I think.)

The Town Guard has had its share of defeats lately, and I must say that it is a combination of bravery and foolishness that are at the root of the problem. Bravery because they take their jobs very seriously and run from nothing, and foolishness because, well, hey take their jobs very seriously and run from nothing. Newly appointed captain Glorianna may be able to change the Guard’s luck in the future. A gypsy as Captain of the Guard! Who would have thought it!

For that matter, have you noticed the racial make up of the nobles of Ashbury? If you don’t count Dame Mara (retired) or Sir Jaret (on extended leave to be an ambassador), we have three humans, three mystic wood elves, three elves, two biata, two dwarves, one half orc, and, oh, whatever Sir Morgasander is. Of course, we had four elves before Sir Zachary showed his true allegiance.

We note in closing the sad passing of two of Ashbury’s young adventurers, William Tralfalgar of the Ash Forest and Duren of the Town Guard. Both died during the battle with Melagar.

That’s all the room for this issue, so until next time, remember — If you can’t say something nice about someone, come sit by me.

Public Notices

DUKE AND DUCHESS: Congratulations on your most joyous marriage. I was honored to be a member of your peerage and seeing both of you glow at the moment of the I does was wonderous. Now what about a heir? – Baron Jonathan Dragonhart

DAME AZURA: Congratulations on earning your Knighthod. You shall serve the Duchy well.  – Squire Talin Gildenlily

ARE YOU INTERESTED in defending the town? Are you interested in learning how to better yourself and work with a team? The town guard is seeking recruits. For those interested, contact Sir Morgasander.

DUREN: May your spirit rest in peace my friend. – Marrek.

THE SUNLESS SEA TRADING CENTER, now opening its warehouse in Yegril, is open for business. The best products from Tarzaterranzan sold, and the best products of Ashbury purchased. Large Accounts welcome. Contact Moxatl Xintlin at the Sunless Sea Trading Coster in Yegril, Ashbury.

SIR DANIEL: Now that she has her own title, does this mean she won’t have to marry you to get one? –  A. D'N.

DRAKONIUS: I have something for you, my friend. Please contact me in Ashbury by Halloween. – Talinith'aria

THE END IS NIGH! The End is Nigh! In blood and screaming we shall die! Red Death shall rain down from the sky! With claws to skin us all alive! Beware!

REWARD FOR INFORMATION. Help put criminals where they belong. All sources kept confidential. See Sir Eros. I swear to never reveal my source. Reward relative to worth of information.

ROJ BLAKENEY: If you think that your little act has us fooled, then you are crazier than your daughter.

JOIN F.O.I.L.! (Free Our contamInated Land). AElves of Ashbury, band together to rid society of the menace of the savage Wild Elves! Join the society of freethinking, civilized beings who will work to effect a better culture. Send your names, requests for membership cards, contributions and letters to: Teril Belayson, Belayson’s Honey Farm, Elindil, Ash Forest.

LITTLE BIRD, LITTLE BEAR: Please reconsider and come back to us.

LOOKING FOR Giant Squid Tentacle Componet. Need it ASAP. Will pay top gold and then some. Also looking for Mithril. See Gilwing.

TO THE SHOKAN: Thank you for your hospitality. It was an honor and a pleasure to fight along side you all. I look forward to the next time we meet.  – Marrek

WANTED: Sergi Karento, Gypsy. To be brought in for questioning by the order of His Grace the Duke for  alleged crimes he performed in Ashbury. Any and all information will be kept confidential. Contact any member of the Town Guard with this information.

SQUIRE DUR’ISIL: Please meet with me as soon as you can so that we may discuss the State Of Things As They Currently Are. – Squire A'tesh

AHALAN citizens of Ashbury!  The results from Zayazan's Games are as follows: Stealth Game Winner:  Perwin Baker;  All Out Melee Winner:  Nektet the Sarr;  Sudden Death Combat Winner:  Squire Sieghart, Court of Nordenn. Congratulations to the winners, who all received cash prizes and ritual scrolls! Most gracious thanks to all who assisted and participated! – Zayazan