Duchess Mara Tirane announced that she would be hosting a public faire to celebrate Ash Ford Battle Day. She also officially announced the First Annual Commoners' Tournament to be held in late May and the First Annual Nobles' Tournament to be held in Early September.
Ash Ford Battle Day is not always celebrated by the citizens of Ashbury even though it is an official holiday. The day, which celebrates the defeat of the evil Troll King Fangthorn in 479 which led to the eventual establishment of the Duchy, is usually only a military holiday in which the Royal Army has battle "games" and competitions and discuss military strategy.
So why make a public festival of the day? "I can think of three reasons," stated Sir Hieronymous Stone, General over the Ashbury division of the Royal Army, "One, Duchess Mara's background as a military strategist makes this holiday appealing to her. Two, the celebration can be used as a propaganda tool to rally the people against the evil trolls who are once again victimizing innocent citizens. And three, to better inform our people of their noble history."
Although Ash Ford Battle Day falls on Monday, April 18th, the faire will be held on the weekend of April 9th and 10th as to not conflict with a scheduled trip the Duchess will be taking in mid-April. The faire will be held on Gwendolyn's Field in Ashbury.
Merchants, bakers and cooks are encouraged to sell their wares and entertainers of all types are being recruited as well.
The Royal Army will be present and recruiting and will have a definite presence to discourage any troll attacks that may be expected from such a celebration.
Duchess Mara also formally announced the First Annual Tournaments, modeled after the tournaments held in Volta and Ravenholt. Many adventuring teams have already expressed interest in participating in the Commoner's Tournament, especially when she announced that each team would receive two silvers per team member for every point won. The winning commoner's team will also be invited to a splendid feast with the Duchess.
A team consists of exactly six people who must be introduced and announced in the "Colors" competition. It should be noted that only commoners may participate in the Commoner's Tournament. Squires, Lords, and Ladies are considered "nobility" for the purpose of the Tournaments.
The Commoners' Tournament, which will be held over the weekend of May 27th through the 30th, has nine main competitions: Colors, Combat, Entertainment, Archery, Riddles, The Race, The Hero's Battle, The Spellcasters' Battle, and The Hunt. Detailed explanations of these events are in an article written by the editor of this newspaper that is available in all good libraries.
Each team will be rated in each event and given ranking points with the first place team receiving the most points. A well rounded team will eventually gain the group the most points. Therefore, it is possible to win the Tournament without winning a single event as long as the team places well in many events.
The Nobles' Tournament will be held in the fall and will most likely have the same events.
Among the commoner groups who have already expressed an interest are the Company, the Pride, the Wolverine Gypsy Clan, and the Brewer's Guild. It is likely that the Mages' Guild and the Dragon's Flagon may sponsor teams, and some of the noble households may also sponsor teams composed of non-squires and other household personnel.
The Royal Army and the Town Guard may also sponsor teams.
The Merchant's Guild has stated that they will be taking bets on the outcomes of both Tournaments and will place odds on a board at the Dragon's Flagon next to the results as they are tabulated.
The Neumacht clan's main brewery in Fenmarch was attacked recently and taken over by several of the family's old rivals from Blackstone.
Klaus von Shreck, who refers to himself as the Wizard of Beer, took over his rival's brewery in a fit of revenge. He was assisted by his brothers Helmut and Rupert. They slew the foreman, Johann Karl Neumacht, and Enslaved the other workers.
A group of adventurers entered the building at Neumacht Brewmaster Wilhelm's request and cleared it of the magically created beer-based constructs placed there by the insane caster Klaus. Klaus himself was dragged into a rift created by his own "beer-spoiling" ritual and has not been seen since. Johann Karl was buried the following day. His mourning family officially retired their "Dunkles" Beer label in his honor, although rumor has it that no one liked this particular brew anyway. Wolfgang Neumacht is taking over the day-to-day administration of the family's brewery.
The evil Klaus had in his possession a book which supposedly contained rituals to Curse and Bless a brewery, turn alcoholic substances into alchemical substances, and create various intoxicating "elementals." Local wizards and scholars disputed such claims.
"The creation of a single ritual takes years of study and experimentation," stated Sorceress Shalizar before leaving on a midwinter's journey. "If such rituals exist, they must certainly be earth rituals, for what mage would waste time on such foolishness? Why create several rituals of such limited scope when the same amount of effort could create spells that could achieve the same purpose but be more generally useful?" Some have pointed out that one would have to be insane to do such a thing and that Wizard Klaus certainly seemed as batty as a loon.
Given the description of the ritual that was being done, Shalizar speculated that it was probably a variation of a "Summoning" ritual. "There are creatures that can be summoned that can curse and bless objects as any farmer familiar with brownies can tell you. Cows have been known to give sour milk after being cursed by such beings and there is no reason to assume one that can curse beer could not also exist."
As for the alleged ritual creating alchemical substances, Shalizar dismissed it. "It's probably some alchemical thing. Go ask an alchemist. It doesn't interest me."
Since the incident, Neumacht clan leaders Wilhelm, Faustus and Otto, who recently joined the Duchess' court, have decided to move their operation to a larger brewery in Brandywine. Apparently, there are too many sad memories for them to remain in Fenmarch. Squire Wilhelm has asked that his patrons please be patient as beer from the new brewery will not be properly aged and ready for sale until at least April.
Early this month, His Majesty King Joseph announced that the Royal Throne of Evendarr officially recognizes the Duchy of Ravenholt and the ascension to power of its new duke, Lord Andros Ravenhurst. This proclamation was spurred on by the recent collapse of that Principality, which has once again become a part of the Kingdom of Evendarr.
Duke Andros is the adopted son of Prince Basil Ravenhurst, who died his final death during the November rebellion which began Ravenholt's recent civil war. Rumors circulate that Basil's wife, Andrea Huntington, was asked to abdicate the position in favor of receiving another, more powerful position which has not yet been revealed. Duke Andros was quick to assemble a strong court and has already begun to restructure his duchy.
The poor weather has certainly lent him some assistance. Heavy snows have ground nearly all fighting in Capulus to a halt. Military advisors under Prince Kevyn Blackfox's command have reported that the weather is only speeding up an inevitable process. They claim that backbone of the rebel army has been shattered, and that all pockets of resistance will be crushed by spring. Duke Andros clearly believes so, as he has already appointed a new ruler over the beleaguered barony.
Things are not so certain in Cumberland. The former baron still commands much of that barony's armies and there are whispers that he still presides over his rebel court from the baronial capitol of Aradia. Ravenholt's new duke may have some difficulty bringing Cumberland back under its banner. Sources in Rotaria report that Duchess Lillian is furious over the appointment of Capulus's new baron. Times reporters there have deduced that she hoped to take Capulus as her own when the two sides involved in Ravenholt's civil war collapsed from exhaustion and weariness. Apparently, she did not count on the resiliency of a people who have lived on the northern border of the kingdom for many years.
When asked to comment on the situation, Duke Adran Voltan of Volta fearlessly replied "I'm quite pleased that my neighbors once again fly the King's colors." After graciously fielding a few questions regarding his own designs on the region, he was ambiguous. "Ah, what can be done?" the Duke asked. "I have won no new land for my duchy, but I feel this experience has brought me closer to all my neighbors."
Duchess Mara was unavailable to answer any questions, but it is believed that she is quite relieved that Ashbury will not be taking Ravenholt's places as northern borderland (or northern "bufferland" as some critics have called it).
The Ashbury Healers' and Mages' Guilds have announced the arrival of many new reference books from the Royal Academy that were previously absent from their respective ritual magic libraries.
According to Guildmaster Isabella, the libraries the guilds have been working with the last two years were significantly out of date, the extent of which is only just now being realized. Much of the new information is about existing or unknown ritual scrolls whose components were never listed in the books.
"Some of the less useful components that have been collecting dust in the guild are now actually quite valuable," said Isabella.
In light of the new information contained in the libraries, the Healers' Guild has offered to re-research earth ritual components for an additional one copper each. Senior Guildsman Ilrick, speaking for the absent Sorceress Shalizar, stated that the Mages' Guild will re-research celestial ritual components at no additional cost. Ashbury citizens are asked to bring in their previously researched components to the respective guilds and are assured that any new ritual components will be researched with the most up to date information available from the Royal Academy.
by Cleo Smith
Hello everyone!! The biggest news this month is that Lord Magistrate Squire Aloryn Runeweaver (he gets angry if you forget one of his names) found Hanson not guilty and Vayne not guilty! Also he wears underwear most of the time (or so he claims). Since the end of the Korombos trials, he can now turn his attention to other pressing matters--such as the "sibling" rivalry between himself and Sir Angus' other squire, Sonya Dawntreader. Whatever he decides to do about the situation, I wouldn't suggest Aloryn takes Sonya's seat again. If things get too bad though, Sonya can always find herself another knight. "Any noble would be glad to have Sonya on his team," says Baron Morgan who recently claimed to be an expert on the subject.
Baron Morgan would like the Duchy to know as well that he will "never buy anyone an ale again." That's okay Baron, the citizens have heard your squires complaining enough about having no money. We understand.
Speaking of squires, is Kergan McCloud one? His baron says yes but the Paladins say no. Whether or not he is, after his guilty verdict he died bravely and well. (I hear there are many squire openings in barony of Trellheim now.)
Blade the barbarian, eater of many toona sandweechis and writer of terrible songs was in the Dragon's Flagon recently--wearing a tabard!! He also wants to play Baron Morgan in chess.
Mozz the barbarian meanwhile is currently offering lessons in etiquette. His speciality is the proper way to eat finger foods without getting dirty. He really hates getting spots on his lovely clothes. Perhaps Baron Bryan should send little brother Sethric to him. (Sethric claims that "every once in a while" he takes off his one and only shirt.)
Also Taur the dwarf could use a few lessons. His friends all say he drinks too much and has food in his beard. And he sits around talking about the unworthiness of elves!
Lastly, it appears that there's a political rift in the once unified Neumacht clan. Otto was evasive when questioned, however I found out that Otto told Wilhelm he'd be a better clan patriarch! That led to a duel which if Otto won would give him the right to be patriarch-for-a-day (but he lost terribly). Will someone please teach Wilhelm how to slay an opponent in one strike? He didn't need the skill to defeat Otto but his underlings may be getting a bit frisky, judging by the amount of sarcasm leveled at the current patriarch. Good luck Wilhelm in this endeavor and in building your Neumacht dynasty.
That's all for this issue. Just remember: if you can't say something nice about someone, come sit by me.
KOROMBOS, ELRIC: Necromancer, traitor, conspirator, heartless leader, and dear brother Elric Korombos died his final death Saturday, January 22, 594, after being convicted and sentenced to five deaths by Lord Magistrate Aloryn for his crimes against the Duchy.
Elric is survived by his father, a brother (Donovan) and members of the Brotherhood of Korombos. Elric, born January 4, 576, was the feared leader of the now infamous Brotherhood of Korombos, which, upon his death, has been officialy declared disbanded as of the first and last action of their new leader, Donovan Korombos.
(Submitted by Donovan Korombos)
A REWARD of 20 gold is offered for the safe return of the magic swords owned by Baron Morgan Blackbourne and Duchess Mara Tirane. If found, these swords are to be returned immediately to their owners. Anyone found in possession of these swords unlawfully will become very unhappy. - Duchess Mara Tirane
TO THE COWARDLY SCUM who has dared to accuse me unjustly: I challenge you to confront me with real proof of any wrongdoing. Otherwise, I prefer that such unfounded treasonous statements remain silent. I fear no list as the truth is my shield against all enemies of Ashbury. - Baron Morgan Blackbourne.
ATTENTION: As I have recently been removed from the position of Lord Magistrate, I wish for it to be known that I harbor no ill will to the people who removed me. Furthermore, I shall continue to be a loyal servant of the Duchy. It was probably a difference in my philosophies and ideals which were founded by my upbringing in lands vastly different from Ashbury. I urge everyone to support Lord Magistrate Aloryn Runeweaver in his duties as the office is known to be very stressful. I wish Aloryn health and prosperity and the gift of understanding which is needed for the job. - Lornlin Darque.
NOTE: There were two misprints in the last month's "The Real News." Replace the name Kerrugan with Kergan McCloud, and the Merchant's Guild with the Mercenaries' Guild. The misprints were entirely the editor's fault, and I am sure he is very sorry. - Cleo Smith.
LOOKING FOR WORK? Are you a carpenter? A stonemason? Can you mourn or caterwaul? If so, you may be right for the soon-to-be-formed Ashbury Funeral Home. Great benefits! If interested, come see me at the upcoming faire. I'm a furry old mole and my name is Tally Kingen.
TRADESMEN! Join a common cause dedicated to your success and profits! Register with the Ashbury Merchants' Guild either at our offices in Wildwood or in Ashbury. - A.M.G.
RECRUITS WANTED! The mercenary company of the Gold 'n Sword is looking for a few good sentients. Applicants should be of good repute. Oathbreakers, kinslayers, marhime, and convicted assassins or necromancers need not apply. To join, see Captain Jennar Veggan, Sergeant Thorm, Nicoli or Titania of the Wolverine Kompania of Gypsies or myself, Margoli Lupescu, Company Clerk.
GOODBYE and thank you to all! - Tarlyn
ALORYN: You shall pay for questioning my honor. You and that pitiful sheriff shall suffer your final deaths at my hands. Beware that I will strike when you least expect it. - The Executioner.
I FIND THAT IT IS MY DUTY to warn the other citizens of Ashbury that the following nobles are not as competent as they should be: Baron Bryan, Baron Thomas, Baron Morgan, and Baroness Alicia. Please support your Duchess and her Paladins, as they (and you) will be needing all the help they can get (very soon).
FANGTHORN will rise again!
MYSTIC WOOD ELVES and other races: a new group is forming called The Clan. We are now accepting new members. Contact Seth or Squire Daven.
VICTOR - Apparently your life isn't worth a silver piece. - Your Pals in the Fist.
MAGIC ITEM FOR SALE! The Ashbury Mages' Guild is auctioning off a temporary magic item which has the power of Restore Limb four times ever. Bids can be placed any time before April 29th at 9 pm. The item will be rewarded immediately thereafter based on the bid most useful to the Guild. This extended auction is open to all but the actual bids will remain secret. Contact Apprentice Faustus Neumacht der Dritte of the Brewers to place your bids.
YORKOVICH: We have it. You should have made the deal. Now Sarah is coming home in a box. - Morgen.
HEALING COMPONENTS BOUGHT. Good prices. Sell your components to those who will use them for the cause of good. See Camilla Zatar.
BARON BRYAN: We are tired of your incompetence. We will give you one more assignment and if you blow this one, you're kicked out. - The Fist.
NEED INFORMATION? If it's written down somewhere, I can find it. Items evaluated, potions identified, scrolls read. Also contracts, legal representation, and scholarly advice. - Quentin Dunbury
THE ASHBURY MAGES' GUILD would like to congratulate the following new Apprentices: Kittery Ann Holindarn, Company of the Wolf; Peter Ivonovich, Wolverine Gypsy Clan; Naansa