The Ashbury Times, Jan/Feb 2006

Ashbury Rifted to Abysmal Gorge;

Ducal Household Kidnapped

For many years, the days surrounding the holiday of Halloween has brought many undead through the thinning of the veil between Ashbury and the Abysmal Gorge. This year was no exception and was one of the more horrific times that Ashbury had ever encountered.

On Friday night, the Amani Ranger Scarn traveled to the Ducal Manor to speak with His Grace. Upon arriving, he found that the Manor had disappeared and had been replaced with a black misty pool that was slowly growing larger.

Several adventurers arrived after hearing Scarn’s report and checked on the pool. While the pool was still growing, nothing that the Ashbans did seemed to affect it. Those who attempted to touch the pool felt an ice coldness that they had never felt before.

Pedratos, formerly Yech the King of Sickness, was on hand and also touched the black pool – he immediately fell over in what appeared to be agony screaming, “It’s the Gorge!”

Later on in the evening while the adventurers were pondering what to do and what had happened to the Ducal Court, several screams were heard, and a large force of undead attacked as Asbury was rifted into the Abysmal Gorge!

After the undead were defeated, Pedratos explained that they were within the Abysmal Gorge and that gift spells would no longer work on the living while within this realm – but that Death Spells should destroy the undead.

Horribly enough, the Greater Earth Circle was not functioning within the Gorge – and those that died resurrected in the endless graveyards of the yawning abyss – as ghosts! Only after finding there spirits entrapped within stones were they able to become living once again.

Pedratos offered to act as a scout and send any information to the Ashbans while they were here. Few of the adventurers slept that night, and those who did, did not sleep well.

The next morning, Pedratos returned to tell the adventures that he had a vision of Baron Indorian being held prisoner within the Pyramid of Sickness, the kingdom Pedratos ruled while he was the Sickness King. The Ashbans quickly assembled and followed Pedratos to the Black Pyramid. Outside of a pyramid, the adventurers encountered a large force of undead. After making quick work of the undead, the adventurers entered the pyramid. Inside they found two circles of power: one was containing Mishmash’s general, the other containing Baron Indorian who was being mummified to become the new Sickness King – just as Pedratos had seen in his vision.

The General offered combat to Pedratos on the condition that if he won, he would allow the Ashbans to pass; but if Pedratos lost, he would once again become Yech. At the urging of the Adventurers (most notably the mage Simon was heard to be encouraging Pedratos) Pedratos accepted and fought the undead general.

Unfortunately Pedratos was bested easily in the combat and killed. He emerged as Yech, the Sickness King, once again and killed Baron Indorian. Then inexplicably killed his General twice.

Though Yech was taken down by several storm spells thrown by Keyres and Varen he respawned from the pyramid instantly. As the adventurers made a quick retreat, Yech offered them a key saying to them to take it and go. He was also seen to be confused when told his name was “Pedratos” and seen to give a bracelet to Scarn Whiteleaf.

Shortly after returning to town, the ghost form of Baron Indorian arrived and requested that all adventurers meet within the tavern. Once all were assembled His Excellency told what had happened to his Grace.

The evening before, Duke Frost, the Ducal Court (consisting of Sir Harrison Ryat, Sir Eros Clearbrook, Sir Padrin, and Squire Trevor Donovan), and Baron Indorian had gathered for a meal and to discuss how to handle this year’s Halloween threat. While planning their attack, several screams were heard outside the hall where the Ducal Soldiers were gathered.

Drawing their weapons and summoning aura, they headed to the door when Mishmash and his undead minions smashed it open. In a fierce fight, the ducal court were slowly taken down one by one, quickly healed and made unconscious. Baron Indorian was webbed and he saw Mishmash eviscerate His Grace, raise him above his head in victory, then slam him down on his knee, breaking the Duke’s back. Mishmash then reached for Baron Indorian and that is where His Excellency’s tale ended.

Baron Indorian explained to the adventurers that he had no clue as to the location of His Grace, or any members of the Ducal Court. That they must be found quickly and that a way must be found to exit the Abysmal Gorge. The Ashbans took to the task immediately.

Guard Blair of the Dockside town guard came into the city as a ghost with some information regarding Sir Harrison. Apparently, the Dockside town guard had discovered that he was being kept in some carnival run by insane undead – they broke him out, but he seemed not quite himself. He ordered the Town Guard to help him find “it” and they tried to help – but couldn’t figure out what “it” was.

Shortly thereafter, powerful scarecrow constructs arrived demanding that mentally unbalanced beings were to be taken to the Asylum. Guard Blair pretended insanity, discovered where the Asylum was, and escaped to Ashbury to get aid.

Guards Ahuric, Daedric and Squire Koshi along with Lords Ivan and Dugal, Gabriel and others went to aid the stricken knight. They found a construct, not dissimilar to the construct that was running the abhorrent Carnival of Games last year, who claimed to be keeping a number of insane undead and Sir Harrison prisoner. The construct seemed dismayed that he had to keep them separate because Sir Harrison kept killing the undead – but it allowed the gathered adventurers to see and speak with him. The construct gave Lord Dugal a key to the cell, which spirit linked to him.

Sir Harrison was wandering around his cell searching for something – something that those who came to aid him quickly determined was the Code of Chivalry, which had somehow been taken from the Paladin’s mind. As they spoke the tenants of the Code to him, a strange wind blew into the cell and rifted them all away. They arrived in a strange misty place where they were attacked by what appeared to be several versions of Sir Harrison. Each version of the Knight had to have several of the tenants of the Code explained to them as the others attacked. Unluckily, Guard Daedric injured his leg, and was unable to provide much assistance. As the Code was explained, Sir Harrison became more and more himself, until once all had been explained – the group was rifted back, and returned to Ashbury.

Lord Ivan gave Sir Harrison his noble belt and was seen speaking in hushed tones to the Paladin later that evening.

Around midday, Dan, formally of the Wings of Polaris, felt a tug on his spirit. While he followed the pull, Squire Koshi, Tien Tien, and others attempted to stop him when they were all rifted out. The group rifted into what appeared to be a decayed opera house where they found Squire Trevor within a Circle of Power making hushing noises at them. Assuming that they were within the Kingdom of Moan n Groan, the group quickly destroyed the undead within the house and attempted to free the Squire.

Only after Tien Tien found and touched a strange glowing mask did the Circle fall, and more undead attacked. This time, the group was not successful, as Squire Trevor and all except for Dan were taken down and later reformed as ghosts.

The ghost of Sir Padrin later arrived in Ashbury. He had somehow managed to kill himself to escape the minions of the Dean who had been holding him in Muckhead’s swamp. He felt a powerful pull drawing him back to the swamp – and the adventurers explained that this was probably his spirit gem calling to him. Sir Padrin said that there were hundreds of undead crawling all over the swamp – and so all of the gathered adventurers rallied to help him.

The swamp seemed very similar to those who had raided Muckhead’s swamp the previous year – including having the ability to suck people into its murky waters. After the adventurers had fought their way deep into the swamp, its waters swelled and swallowed them all up.

The adventurers found that they had been split into two groups – both of which fought on towards the center of the swamp. Eventually the two groups met up again in the center of the swamp where they found a clearing – many spirit gems were scattered about, including Sir Padrin’s, that was in a severed hand which spirit linked to an adventurer.

While collecting gems from the field, two gargantuan rotting worms burst from the ground and attacked! The battle was fierce as the worms were tipped with hideous heads large enough to swallow a person whole.

After the retrieving of Sir Padrin’s spirit stone, the adventurers hurriedly ate quick dinners and discussed what could be done and the possible locations of Duke Frost and Sir Eros.

During that time, the adventurers received a report from a Child of Camulous ducal soldier that Sir Eros was being held in a large mansion, guarded by numerous undead. The undead had apparently thought that the soldier was Sir Eros! Upon arrival, the Ashbans found themselves in a large ballroom, with several mirrors lining the walls. Upon a platform at the back of the ballroom sat a vampire within a circle of power. Sir Eros could not be seen, but this vampire had a key, as well as the life gems of several citizens within her circle.

She made but one request: if six of the ladies present would stand before the mirrors and chant the name “Nachtface” three times, the adventurers would receive an enchanted key (a mirror) and life gems with no struggle. In answer to this, Dame Gloriana called up an Earth Storm. At this the vampire within the circle ordered her minions to attack.

During the battle, a shadowy image of Nachtface began to appear within the mirrors. The image threw necromantic magic at the adventurers, and was able to move, untouched, from mirror to mirror. Many fighters tried to smite Nachtface’s image, but their weapons, even magical ones, passed right through her shadowy form.

In addition to the undead, vampires and Nachtface, the assembled Ashbans faced a type of construct never seen before. They were fragile golems, fashioned from colorful stained glass. While they were not very powerful, striking the golems caused them to shatter into sharp, painful shards.

Wading among the chaos was Ling Ling, the young panda scavenger. Though the adventurers had made it clear that they would not cooperate with undead, the combat seemed too much for her, as she struggled to try to get five other female adventurers to chant in the mirrors with her. Her brother, Tai Shan was among the spirits that day.

As the battle raged on, one of the mages present decided to attempt to shatter the mirrors. They discovered that shatter and destroy spells would indeed bring the mirrors down and harm the image of Nachtface where weapons failed. Once this was realized, Aria Devonshire and Dame Gloriana ran around the room shattering the mirrors.

When the last mirror fell, the image of Nachtface let out a haunting wail. The Circle of Power fell, and several adventurers surged forward to capture the spirit gems. The Sarr Parduc grabbed one that was resting on an ancient skull framed mirror which spirit linked to him. Several people were restored to the living. A search of the mansion turned up empty, but Sir Eros resurrected in Dockside the following day.

Late that evening, a lone undead wandered into town with a message for Dame Gloriana. The message was for the knight to meet Yech outside of town for information about the His Grace. After debating this, Dame Gloriana went to the meeting. She returned to town a short while later telling the adventurers to gather to free Duke Frost. Little is known about what happened during that meeting – but it is assumed that Yech gave her the information freely asking for nothing in return. Of course no noble of Ashbury would consort with undead – it is speculated that the spirit of Pedratos still had some sway over Yech.

Dame Glorianna explained that many of the “keys” that had been discovered throughout the day were in actuality keys to the Duke’s prison. She stated that a mirror, a bone shard, a pumpkin, a severed and rotted hand, as well as an opera mask were required. Adventurers who had rescued the members of the Ducal court came forward with the requisite items – except for a pumpkin! After searching, and debate, it was discovered that the key that Lord Dugal was given was in actuality the pumpkin (though it barely looked like one) and that the adventurers had everything they needed to free his Grace.

Now came the most dangerous part; an assault on Muckhead’s Castle – the largest bastion of necromantic power in the abysmal gorge!

The battle was over almost as quickly as it began. A strike force of the most seasoned adventurers and nobles, along with those who had the keys, snuck into the castle and grabbed his Grace as Muckhead attacked with limitless legions of undead. The adventurers wisely retreated back to the relative safety of the city, where they discovered that His Grace had lost some memory and seemed confused, even asking questions about his wife Duchess Dara. He also seemed particularly interested in Kerrigwen’s safety. Sir Harrison was on hand and escorted his Grace to an encampment that the Ducal soldiers had build far outside of Ashbury city. He left Dame Glorianna in charge.

A short while later, Baron Indorian returned to Ashbury and requested that the group leaders meet with him within the Ash Forest House. Dame Gloriana, Squires Koshi and Raven, Guildmaster Cedric Fruvous, Guildmaster William Lenox, Man-At-Arms Lokegon, Kerrigwen Melite, and Gabriel Bruce arrived there where His Excellency informed them that Duke Frost was recovering from his ordeal at an encampment of ducal soldiers and commoners, but was not fully restored as of yet.

At this point, the Baron asked those gathered for ideas as what to do to get the populace back home. After a debate it was determined that they could use a Planar Gate ritual to open a portal back to Icenia. Unfortunately, this meant that buildings would have to be left behind but the lives of the people were more important.

One scroll was donated by the Mage’s Guild, while another scroll and both catalysts were donated by adventurers. With two rituals to cast, it was decided that Baron Indorian and Guildmaster William would head back to the ducal encampment in order to get the townspeople home, and Guildmaster Cedric with Mage Aria’s assistance would cast the other to allow the adventurers to return.

The next morning, Baron Indorian returned to town to gather the donated Catalyst for the planer gate from Gabriel and left to perform the ritual. The Baron also told Guildmaster Cedric to begin his ritual as well. As the adventurers gathered their belongings to leave, a force of undead attacked the adventurers once again. The Ashbans struck at them while Cedric performed the ritual.

When the ritual was cast, however, the adventurers found undead waiting for them on the other side. While planning their course of action to evacuate, more of the vile creatures came marching up behind, including the undead form of Dean Calwan, forcing them through the planar gate.

The undead attempted to follow them into Ashbury until Kerrigwen Melite cast a circle of power around the portal, blocking their entry. The undead still managed to wreak some havoc back in Icenia and some adventurers were forced to resurrect.

The Dean rifted to the Icenia side of the Portal, laughing at Kerrigwen saying that such weak precautions would not stop him. He approached the retreating adventurers and ordered his undead to slay them all!

Yech, the sickness king, rifted in and called out the Dean – offering to have the adventurers choose who would be the King of Halloween as the tradition went. The Dean seemed hesitant but agreed saying “Vote for Yech, and I’ll destroy you all!” Yech claimed that adventurers would face a year of plague if he was King.

During the debate, Garuda the High Ogre, who had spent much time with Pedratos in Glenrake, called out to Pedratos and for an instant, Yech seemed to recognize him. The adventurers decided that Yech would be king – to which Yech immediately banished the Dean to the Abysmal Gorge, then rifted out calling that he’d see them all next year.

One of the undead remaining looked around at his now leaderless force of undead, and the bristling adventurers and shouted “Rend the Living!” and the battle continued – with the adventurers emerging victorious.

In the days following the Adventurers’ return from the Abysmal Gorge, many undead remained and continued to come through the thinned veil to wreak havoc and chaos. Many adventurers rose up to the calls of aid to fight back. And little by little, His Grace regained his senses.

Baron Rorii of the Ash Forest launched a campaign from within the Forest with his court and others who answered his call to fight the undead plaguing the city. Lords Daniel and Ivan joined up with ducal forces to fight as well. The adventuring group known as Crimson Star went out on their own to battle the undead and help the commoners who asked for their aid. Lord Jonathan left the estate of Dragonhart and met up with baronial forces from Blythedale who fought a strong successful campaign lead by soldiers from the former undead fighting group known as Andrew’s Hammer. The Black Unicorns were also seen about the city, as well as a lone dark elf.

In the days after Halloween when what remained of Ashbury was returned to our plane, aid was still needed in repairing buildings and helping those less fortunate get ready for the long hard winter ahead. The panda scavenger known as Ling Ling offered her aid and baked goods to those who wanted it. Sergeant at arms Lokegon spent many hours delivering supplies to commoners with other ducal soldiers.

Ashbury is well on its way to a full recovery.

Duke Frost’s Nobles of Ashbury

Notice to all regarding the nobles of Ashbury,

Let it be known that only the following nobles and squires are currently serving Ashbury in an official capacity.

Squire Trevor Donovan (Ducal Seneschal)

Sir Eros Clearbrook (Lord Magistrate)

Sir Harrison Ryatt (High Sheriff)

Sir Padrin Darius

Lord Ivan Drake

Lord Daniel Grimsby

Baron Roriiathanderhil Colaenlothrodarhil

Lady Daralasia Fairseer

Squire Koshinara Murakami

Baron Indorian Silverleaf

Squire Tellis Veladon

Squire Jocelyn Fairfax

Lady Knight Glorianna Wyndancer

Squire Raven Nevermore

Any other noble title held by an individual is considered honorary and by my grace. Those holding these titles are expected to hold to the noble tenants of the Code of Chivalry and are expected to act with exemplary honor in all matters. However, these honorary titles carry no noble authority. Those holding honorary titles should be given the respect due their rank.

In Service,

Duke Sir Frost Vardik

Baron Rorii’s Appointment Stirs Up Controversy in Ash Forest

The recent appointment of Rorii-athanderhil Colaenlothrodarhil has caused some serious rumblings within the Ash Forest, leading some to wonder if the appointment has caused more problems than it has solved.

Though in his tenure of service to the people of Ashbury Baron Rorii, an Elf of Imlandari heritage, has proven himself to be a selfless and valiant leader both on and off of the field of battle, many elves in the Ash Forest have questioned his appointment as Baron based on cultural grounds.

Historically, thousands of years ago, long before the black maw brought Ashbury to the lands of Fortanis, the Amani people came to settle the Ash Forest along side the Kiergani people after fleeing persecution from the Tyrran Kingdom of Quintari. The appointment of Baron Rorii marks the first time in their history that the Ash Forest has been under the direct control of a noble from outside of the Amani or Kiergani peoples.

Many citizens of the Ash Forest have reacted to this historic change with unease.

“The Quintari and Imladari people are astoundingly similar,” said Sage’s Guildmaster Cedric Fruvous, an Amani elf. “And the reason the Amani left to settle in the Ash Forest was because they found the rule of the Quintari completely unacceptable.”

The treaties between the Amani Council and the Kingdom of Evendarr, which led to the inclusion of the Ash Forest as part of Ashbury, stipulated that the leaders of the Ash Forest would maintain some level of autonomy and be consulted about changes that would affect the Ash Forest.

However, sources close to the Amani Council indicate that His Grace never discussed the new baronial appointment with them, further fueling the discontent among the Amani peoples on this matter.

Perhaps the most vocal resistance to the new Baron has come from the activist group F.O.I.L. (Free Our contamInated Lands.), a group started by former Amani Ranger Teril Belayson years ago to advocate the removal of the Kiergani people from the Ash Forest. An incredibly vocal organization during the tenure of Agnar Anti-Tiburon, a Kiergani, as Baron of the Ash Forest, F.O.I.L. had fallen into relative quiet with his resignation and the later appointment of Glenduria Manyave as Baroness.

Rumors persist that a large faction of F.O.I.L. has now turned their attention on the removal of Baron Rorii. “Are we now to open the Wold itself to the rule of Imlandar? Should we once again take on the yoke of foreign oppression that we left Qunitari to escape?” F.O.I.L. members are asking in impassioned speeches throughout the Ash Forest and capital city.

F.O.I.L. has been most vocal in the Forest and Ashbury City denouncing Baron Rorii’s stance on several positions, stating that during a gathering in the Ash Forest manor house in Ashbury City, he was overheard saying that slavery was acceptable as long as the slaves are treated well and cared for properly.

When asked by the Ashbury Times for a response to this accusation, the Baron issued the following statement:

“I am always willing to discuss an issue and listen to all sides, and I have been involved in more than one conversation about slavery. However, I never stated nor would I ever state that slavery in any form is acceptable. Each conversation was a long one, and either something I said was taken out of context or the listener did not understand the point being made.

Then there is always the possibility that someone is acting in malice, looking for anything said that could be twisted and turned to place us in a bad light and to further their own treasonous agenda against the nobles of Ashbury.

If the parties making this false claim would be brave enough to come forth, I would be glad to discuss the issue once again and set the record straight. Let it be known that they may seek me out for intelligent and reasonable discussion and I will not pursue charges against them this time. I will not tolerate a second incident as such, however.

Rest assured, I do not condone slavery in any way.”

Others have pointed out in response that this should not be a barrier to him, as His Grace Duke Frost once owned slaves.

Still, other questions remain. “I do not question his dedication or ability to be a Baron of Ashbury,” stated Amani Ranger Scarn Whiteleaf. “I just do not understand why he and Baron Indorian could not exchange lands and end this entire debate.”

The Amani ranger was of course referring to Baron Indorian Silverleaf’s recent appointment as the Baron of Blythedale, a barony that borders Imladar.

“Indorian is Amani. Rorii is an Imladari. The Ash Forest is more than a Barony; it is a racial homeland of the Amani and Kiergani people, if you will. Blythedale borders Imlandar, putting the Baron there in the perfect diplomatic position between the two kingdoms. Why His Grace did not make the exact opposite assignments of the two new Barons completely baffles me,” stated Scarn.

To this, Baron Rorii stated:

“It has been suggested on various occasions that perhaps Baron Indorian and myself should ‘switch places’ since his culture is that of the Amani and mine of the Imladari. I give this one simple response: I go where His Graces requires. All of the citizens of the Ash Forest are citizens of the Duchy of Ashbury and ultimately citizens of the Kingdom of Icenia.

I will serve all of the people of the Ash Forest fairly and nobly, regardless of race or culture. I am the Baron of the Ash Forest. This will not change anytime in the near future short of His Grace’s wishes or my death. There will be no further discussion on this matter by me.”

Despite his attempts, Baron Rorii has also had difficulty in finding favor amongst some of the Kiergani peoples. One would think that the Kiergani would be pleased with the recent events, since much of F.O.I.L.’s focus seems to have been turned away from them, slightly reducing tensions that have existed for years.

Still, the Kiergani people are watching this change in power with caution. One anonymous Kiergani was heard to say “No offense, but the Amani are bad enough, now an Imladari? What was Duke Frost thinking?”

During a recent gathering of the adventurers in Ashbury City, the rights of the elven peoples to voice their opposition to Baron Rorii’s appointment were called into question by the nobility.

When a group of F.O.I.L. members traveled into The Dragon’s Flagon to give a speech to the assembled adventurers about why the group disagreed with Rorii’s appointment, they were interrupted by a knight and told that they would be charged with Mockery of a Noble Title if they continued.

“Perhaps the future where dissenting opinion was outlawed and books were burned isn’t so far fetched after all” said one anonymous Ashban after witnessing this exchange.

It is hoped that the Baron can bring the various people of the Ash Forest together, but in the short run, he apparently faces a difficult uphill battle merely keeping the elves happy.

Guild Reports

HEALERS GUILD

by Guildmistress Zatarina Norik

Last year, I tried to get Ashbans to realize that healers are people and not walking healing dispensers at beck and command. This year, I will be trying to complete this.

For those who have not taken the time to know me or the Guild, we are honorable, law-abiding citizens who value life.

My personal philiosphies are this:

Keep healers alive above all else

Never waver on being the backbone of the duchy

Always respect a healer’s “choice to heal”

Try to encourage everyone to learn First Aid

Make as many Cure Light elixirs as possible to give freely to newer adventurers in need

Use my spells to keep healers up and nobles in need

Making the Guild into a charitable business but a business still

Endeavor to always tell the truth to nobles

Make sure all necromancers die their permanent deaths

Never tolerate control over another perso

Guide biata as the Council wishes

Now taking all this in mind, allow me to point out that my job is to keep healers alive. When my healers are dying or being left to bleed out because some care more for personal whims or greed, I will be as cold to you as a Bile Dens breeze.

On a light note, I wish to thank all those of the Guild and their visitors for their support. I am sorry that my health is such that my joints lock up in the cold and I am often unable to help in battle. I am grateful for those who brought the wounded to me for aid.

In appreciation, I am holding a festive “Ashbury Day” party at my home in Bloodstone on the 11th of February, from dinnertime until we drop. A fine dinner with cheesecake for dessert will be served. All Healers Guild members, associates, and those who have made sizeable donations are invited and may bring a limited number of guests. Specifically these people are: Duke Frost, Baron Rorii, Baron Indorian, Dame Glorianna, Sir Eros, Sir Ivan, Sir Daniel, Sir Harrison, Squire Raven, Amar, Aubry, Cora, Fishercat, Kali, Keres, Ket, Kialorewn, Lokegon, Lupiticus, and Zyad. If I have your name wrong it’s because I can’t read your handwriting in the Guild book.

I look forward to seeing my favorite healers over the winter and seeing everyone else in Ashbury as spring thaws!

MAGES GUILD

by William Lenox

I am pleased to announce that Taniuskor de Marakan, has agreed to come on as Assistant Guildmaster. He has studied in Saridbis for years and we look foward to learning from one another. Please note that due to an unfortunate backlash, Asst. Guildmaster Taniuskor will not be performing rituals at this time but will be dedicating his stay here to studying and teaching.

Don’t forget that the guild always has spell ink and scrolls for sale. We can determine the properties of your magical items, identify ritual scrolls and appraise non-magical objects. We uphold the strictest confidentiality policy on all items brought into our circle. The guild also buys and sells ritual scrolls and components when available. We can teach you everything from reading battle magic scrolls to casting rituals. We are still looking for new members. If you are interested you may attend any guild meeting, or send a letter to the Guildmaster to make an appointment.

SAGES GUILD

by Guildmaster Cedric Fruvous

It is my pleasure to announce the promotion of Aria evonshire to the rank of Sage within the guild and Cuar Hyanda to the rank of Guildsman.

Additionally Guildsman Cuar has completed his text on the attacks of the Kanoredhil on the city of Ashbury to be placed in our library.

As I am sure has been noticed, some of the services of the Sage’s Guild and the Mage’s Guild tend to overlap. I am pleased to announce that Guildmaster William Lenox and myself have worked out an arrangement as to which guild is responsible for which services.

Anyone wishing to contract a Ward, Wizard Lock or a celestial ritual will need to do so via the Mage’s Guild. The exceptions to this policy are any Vision or Lore rituals, which fall under the exclusive mandate of the Sage’s Guild. Additionally Guildmaster William has agreed that celestial spellcraft-ing shall be given over to the Sage’s Guild.

Our policy on spellcrafting will be as follows: Anyone wishing to order spellcrafting through the Sage’s Guild will need to have the scroll and reagents to be used or rent the scroll from the Guild, and will need to contact myself or Sage Aria to prearrange spellcrafting. The cost of performing a spellcraft will be a base of two gold crowns or one reagent, and will raise proportionately based on the difficulty of the ritual being spellcrafted. At this time the only spellcraftable scroll available to be rented is Spirit Store.

As usual, the Sage’s Guild will continue to research non arcane lore for the betterment of Ashbury, and we can still be hired for specific investigations.

The Sage’s Guild also sells potions, weapons, armor, alchemy and wine when we have some available. The Sage’s Guild also can teach skills for a nominal fee. If you find yourself without your spell or recipe book, the Sage’s Guild can rent you ours. And, of course, we offer the use of our library for research. The Sage’s Guild is currently looking to purchase Lore, Vision, Circle of Power, and Investiture ritual scrolls.

We are also working on compiling a tome of monsters, tome of undead and compendium of golems so that we may better educate up and coming warriors on the vulnerabilities of monsters. If you are a veteran warrior who tends to remember the abilities of those you vanquish please take a moment to speak with Guildmaster Cedric about this project.

The Sage’s Guild also offers to buy tomes and other scholastic works from freelance scholars. If you have such a work you’d like to sell please make contact with us.

Tomb Raiders

Noted collector Bertram Partridge recently issued the following statement:

“I apologize, but the rifting of Ashbury into the Abysmal Gorge made it impossible for me to hire you to assist in the raiding of the tombs. However, do not despair, for my aide has discovered a way to possibly travel to the Gorge at times other than Halloween in order to accomplish the task. We should have an answer by the spring, and I shall keep you informed.”

Adventurers wishing to assist in testing their mettle against legions of undead should seek Bertram when next he comes to Ashbury City.

Letters

To the Peoples of Ashbury,

The actions of this past Halloween have shown who we are and how we define ourselves to our enemies. I have never been prouder of our adventuring populace as I am right now. Together, acting as one, the adventurers were not only able to free His Grace, myself, and the rest of the ducal court from Mishmash’s captivity, but also rose to the aid of the entire duchy after the return through the planer gates. This has been a trying time for Ashbury and all rose admirably to fight and defend our lands.

While we congratulate ourselves, we must also remember what we had lost. Many buildings within the city are in dire need of repair and some must be completely rebuilt. Many lives of the common folk have been lost as well and we must not overlook the help that they will need to get their ways of life back on track.

Also the lost of Pedratos to once again become Yech, the sickness king, is devastating. We must not let his sacrifice to have been in vain; and must find a way to restore him back to being Pedratos again.

Through the fight against chaos without cessation must continue however and many other enemies still wait to strike at us. Together as one we will defeat our enemies.

In Service,

Baron Indorian Silverleaf of Blythdale

A Little Birdie Told Me

by Sue D’Onym

Let’s see what News They Don’t Want You To Know is out there this month, shall we?

After told by Baron Indorian to evacuate the city through a planer gate, Guildsmaster Cedric showed that he cared more for his books then the order. While the adventurers rushed back through the gate to escape the oncoming army of undead lead by Mishmash, a cry went up that Cedric would not leave without his books. “The boy was always too much of a nerd for his own good.” was overheard being said by Mishmash.

Lord Dugal cares more about his treasury then defending Ashbury! After the return through the gate, the former Regent placed his belongings into the Healers’ Guild, but would not leave them to fight the undead outside that were making quick work of the Ashbans. It was only after Dame Glorianna promised him that a member of Nordenn would sit on top of them to make sure no one would steal any coin did he return to the fight.

Baron Indorian has been getting a lot of requests to join Blythdale lately. Both Lord Ivan and Lord Daniel have approached His Excellency and asked to join his court. While we don’t know what the Baron’s answer was, he seems to have a great liking for the Adventurers; especially the Mystic Wood Elf known as Kerrigwen. During dinner while he held a small meeting with Kerrigwen, Dame Gloriana, and others, most of his attention seemed to be placed on Kerrigwen, as was hers on His Excellency. Baron Indorian even gave Kerrigwen an order not to die! After dinner, Squire Trevor asked him if he planned to purchase a ring in the near future. Is there a wedding being planned that we don’t know about?

Malachi is leading No Code and a small group of some other adventures to a mysterious white tower that appeared in Corhiem. It is also rumored they travel without one of their members, who went missing at Halloween and is thought to be stuck in the Bismal gourge. (That’s not a typo, it’s how they submitted this -- the “Bismal gourge.” Guess it’s a place where you have lots of stomach ulcers or something.)

Oh, and speaking of misspellings, Baron Indorian’s letter printed here really does say “Blythdale” without the “e”.

The young child Ling Ling certainly has the enthusiasm for being a great adventurer some day, but many question whether she should be out on her own at this point. Besides ignoring noble commands by chanting for the undead, running into battle causing the use of Life spells for her and those who had to go and rescue her, and finally an argument with Guildmistress Zatarina over the enormous amount of healing spells she was causing to be used, many believe her cuteness if offset by the danger she poses for herself and others.

Sir Eros has announced some major changes to the Tournament this year, which has caused a bit of discussion among the adventuring class. Apparently padded weapons are no longer to be used, and spellcasters can use evocation spells during their competition. Further, everyone will guess each riddle at the same time. “I hope this will make the Tournament more exciting for both participants and observers,” he said. Scarn gave his approval to the combat rules change (“It will reward the better warrior, not the better fencer.”) but Cora and other members of the Healers Guild were very much in opposition. (Cora, meanwhile, is doing everything in her power to find a way to restore Pedratos, so any who have information should seek her out.)

Baron Rorii, when not dealing with the troublemakers in FOIL, has apparently already begun getting his team prepared for the Tournament, months away. Having the ash Forest win two years ago and then losing last year must have struck him hard.

Well, that’s all I have for this month! Be sure to send me your gossip and until next time, remember: If you can’t say something nice about someone, come sit by me.

Public Notices

WINTER DOLDRUMS? South Point is lovely this time of year, with its beautiful snow-covered evergreens and the stunning ocean view! The Hillside Casino will be hosting an amateur talent competition with fantastic prizes! Or try your luck at any one of our gambling tables. Sample our delicious food, or just sit and relax by the fire. As part of this promotion, all rooms are free in the month of March. Reservations must be made at least one week in advance to be eligible for free room. Gratuities and activities not included. Wards are not permitted to be cast by guests on any rooms or buildings. Wizard locks permitted.

REWARD FOR INFORMATION regarding the whereabouts of one Nerrick Scaldren, formerly of the Lempuridan Resistance. He was last seen four years ago in Saridbis. Any information which produces evidence of his fate will be rewarded. Please contact Cora if you have anything to share.

RITUALS CAST for a moderate fee. Seek Lady Knight Glorianna Wyndancer. Vast experience in creation of Artifact quality items. Confidentiality kept. References available upon request.

NO CODE is seeking new adventures to join their ranks. If interested please contact Malachi, Analia, Thermosis or anyone with the white circle within the triangle, by messenger or in persona.

DAME GLORIANNA: Your first test as a knight was one of the most trying ever. You performed admirably. - Baron Indorian

EYE OF NEWT, venom sacks, fuzzy moss and claw. Special dirt, flowers that squirt, sharp teeth from it’s jaw. If you come to South Point, just before the thaw. Collect these things most carefully, you’ll be rewarded properly. In my circle I will be. That’s the place where you’ll find me. - Iskadar of South Point

SCROLLS AND CATALYSTS WANTED: The Order of the Black Unicorn is looking for the following Ritual Scrolls: Race Change, Channel, Enchant, Expanded Enchant, Race Reaver, Monster Slayer, Spell Store, Protection Aura, Copy Formal Ritual, Preserve Duration, Permanent Duration, Regeneration, Elemental Blast, Elemental Aura, Damage Aura, Earth Aura, Spirit Store and Controlled Spirit Store. We are also looking for the Catalysts for Permanent Duration, Race Change, Controlled Spirit Store, and Copy Formal Ritual as well as any reagents. We are willing to buy or trade, please contact Sparticous, Paythin or Lira.

THE SAGE’S GUILD can teach skills for a nominal fee. If you find yourself without a spell book or recipe book, you may rent ours. We also sell potions, weapons, armor, alchemy and wine when we have some available.