Fangthorn Increases Attacks, Begins Taking Over Parts of Trellheim

After a slow winter which only saw a few halfhearted attacks by trolls and their undead friends, Fangthorn has begun his war by attacking important crossroads, outposts and military sites, and has largely been successful.

"How can we compete against this?" asked one unnamed soldier. "Trolls working with goblins, orcs, undead, and even mercenary humans--it's all too much!"

Fangthorn has taken most of the Tower Hills, and has surrounded a few other towns in Trellheim as well. Although the Trellheim army has performed exceptionally well and has made it very difficult for the invaders, they are vastly outnumbered, and the trolls' use of necromancy and undead help turn the tide.

Among the other attacks reported are:

A large force of hill and war trolls accompanied by siege engines have made an all out assault against the estate of the small town of Oliver in the Tower Hills, with the express purpose of levelling it to the ground apparently because of the origins of its name. Latest reports state that they are gaining ground daily.

Fangthorn's army has also moved against Nantes in the southern reaches of the Tower Hills and is apparently using it as a base of operations for later attacks against the capital itself.

The city of Bartleby was also the site of a recent attack, with many deaths on both sides.

There have been scattered attacks in Alegas, Deathwatch, Queensboro, Quathos, Trellheim, Trollsgate and Wellspring, and reports indicate that roads, bridges, and other transportation services have been destroyed and disrupted.

Attacks at Homrik's Pass and Wildwood in Nordenn have yet to be successful. Apparently the trolls plan on capturing these two important crossroads to prevent the passage of the Ducal army. There have been scattered skirmishes in these areas for some time now

Attacks have also occurred in the important trading sections of Stormwood, Dover and Dale. Most of these attacks seem aimed at gaining horses, wagons, food and weapons in order to paralyze the army.

In the town of Amaranth far to the east in Blythedale, raids by lizardmen, undead, and humans seem to indicate that Rysa is attempting to control this area, perhaps with Fangthorn's approval.

In the Ash Forest, more undead have been seen, including undead trolls, including a major attack recently in Aldin Mirk--very close to the city of Ashbury itself. Casualties were many, but all agree that the toll would have been worse had not Baroness Laurelin been increasing the size of the army and otherwise protecting the defenses of the town. The trolls are shunning the forest as usual and are sending in their minions instead. As usual, undead have not progressed very far into the Ash Forest, and attacks have concentrated along the borders.

It has become increasingly obvious that Fangthorn is extensively using non-troll sources. Those who fought against his first appearance in November recall that he had many human fighters and necromancers with him. This strategy was confirmed recently in a major attack on the estate of Elindil in the Ash Forest.

At sunset on February 28th, a group of "chaos knights" attacked this peaceful village, surprising all within. These knights, most of whom were human and alive, took the guards by surprise by posing as members of the Royal Army.

Eventually, after much bloodshed and destruction to the homes in the area, the chaos knights were routed and they retreated. When captured, one chaos knight would only say that he served "Lord Krell and the Demiurge Fangthorn." While an enslavement antidote was being sought, the chaos knight so angered his captors that they killed him on the spot, much to everyone's regret. All of the Life spells in the town had been used on its residents, so the chaos knight's body disappeared after five minutes.

According to the so-called Talon Prophecies, the final battle with Fangthorn will happen in April of 595. It is at this time that "the bat, the hammer, and the dove" are to help Ashbury fight against this evil, but as of yet, only a few people have admitted they know the identity of these three.

It is obviously to all of Ashbury's advantage to keep the identities secret so as not to call forth some of Fangthorn's human mercenaries against the three, but rumor has it that even these three are unsure as to what they are supposed to do during the final battle or how they are to affect the outcome.

Rich Voltan Merchant Invites Thieves into his House

Noted Voltan merchant Vestrin Bellicose has rented a small home in Ashbury city and is inviting thieves to break in.

No, it's not what it sounds like.

In Volta, thieving skills are valued and are not "frowned upon" in polite society as they might be in more civilized Ashbury. In fact, one of the highlights of each year's Voltan Tournament is a thieving competition.

Vestrin is hoping that the Duke will this year choose his thieving test for the Tournament. He has been working on it for years in an attempt to top the last Tournament contest he designed back in '92. It is a great honor (and very profitable) to have your design chosen for the Tournament. Winning designs then tour the duchy, much like a traveling circus.

In order to test it, he has traveled into Ashbury and is inviting all to participate.

The basic rules of the competition are:

1. No more than 3 people in a group. Among those three people, they must be able to pick locks, disarm traps, and read and write.

2. Participants must complete the quest within 90 minutes or the test will terminate no matter how far along the participants are.

3. There will be treasure scattered about that participants may take, but no traps or locks may be removed. Further, all locks must remain in working order--participants will be fined for any locks that are found to have been bashed open, shattered or destroyed.

4. All participants must sign a legal waiver stating that they are participating of their own free will and will not press charges for any damages that they may incur while in the test.

5. If the participants get into a fight with anyone within, they must keep whoever is within from dying. Killing Blows will be prosecuted as murder. The "monsters" within will not administer killing blows nor throw death spells but they are under no obligation to heal any participant bleeding to death. None of the traps will use Death or Instant Death elixirs.

6. Participants are allowed to take whatever they want into the test as long as they can carry it. Protective spells are allowed and encouraged.

In addition, Vestrin has announced that he will be awarding a special prize to the team that does the best. Scattered around the building will be a series of "tokens." The team that returns the most tokens will win. The farther along you are, the more tokens there will be. And, of course, all of the tokens are very fragile and susceptible to fire, acid, and other traps.

Those who wish to make their names known as competitors may also wish to take part in Vesrtin's betting pool, where scores will be posted in the tavern.

Vestrin will of course keep the identity of those participating a secret unless the participants, for bragging purposes, request otherwise.

Vestrin requests that all interested groups register in advance at the Dragon's Flagon.

Storm Uncovers Tomb

The Duchy of Ashbury was besieged lately by a violent storm at the end of February. The rainstorm passed therough Trellheim, across the northern estates of Nordenn and Blthedale, and then went into Rotaria.

Unfortunately, the storm has left a tangle of fallen trees and flooded roads in its wake. Fortunately, no one was killed permanently in the storm, but an entire family in Reeves died when a mudlide buried their home between several feet of earth.

The sorm has also uncovered almost a score of ancient tombs near the village of Troy in the barony of Nordenn. Glyphs and runes found on the entrances of the crypts indicate that they were constructed by barbarians many years ago. It is still unclear which tribe built the tombs, but the symbol of a large black spider has been found on every entrance.

Local residents have been avoiding the crypts because they feel a great unease when near them. None of the crypts have been disturbed.

Magistrate's Report

By Lord Magistrate Faustus Neumacht

Last month I discussed the legal crisis Ashbury was enmeshed in. I had found the gypsy Dax, a new Squire of Nordenn, guilty of the Murder and Robbery of Duncan Doolittle. I sentenced him to death, as well as an eight gold fine, half of which would go to his victim. Yet Baron Bryan intervened, appealing my judgement directly to the Duchess. This was quite a grave and unorthodox action. After all, it is customary for a Magistrate to resign should his verdict be reversed and there are no mitigating factors.

I forwarded the Duchess my Case File entry, and the Baron sent his objections--we respectfully disagreed on the matter. After Her Grace had considered the facts, she upheld my original judgement. The gypsy Dax, who was temporarily remanded into the custody of the Baron, shall be executed for his crimes at the earliest opportunity. Justice shall prevail.

This case illustrates that trials in Ashbury are decided on the basis of the facts, regardless of the status of those involved. In this instance, Baron Bryan Nordenn, interceding on behalf of Squire Dax, was ultimately overruled by the Duchess. Indeed, Her Grace is adamant that justice be done regardless of the vagaries of politics, and has pledged her full support to my investigations in such cases. In fact, several criminal inquiries are currently pending against prominent citizens of Ashbury.

Another lesson from Dax's Case (595 ASH 13) is the value of eyewitness testimony in obtaining a conviction. Had Sheriff Truxton not come forth with what he had seen, a murderer would have gone free. Likewise, Baron Bryan's valuable testimony helped establish Dax's guilt. And yet, far too often, witnesses fail to report criminal activities (which is itself a crime) and the guilty go unpunished.

An egregious example was the alleged poisoning of Blade the Barbarian when Ashbury entered the Pale. Rumors were so rife that they were printed in this very newspaper, and yet nothing was reported to the authorities! Hopefully, the successful resolution of Dax's Case will reaffirm the people of Ashbury's faith in the law. Only your cooperation can ensure that future criminals will receive the just punishment they deserve.

Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor,

A few months ago, at the end of October, just before the defeat of Fangthorn, my men and I became involved in a situation I wish to make clear to the citizens of Ashbury.

A man named Morgan Sunstar who travels with the Company of the Red Diamond (or whatever they call themselves now) lost the sword Slavetamer to a monster of the wood (perhaps an ogre or a troll--I do not recall). After besting Morgan (or his companion--I did not ask the details of their defeat), the creature came across the Deep Trolls of the "Sunless Empire," who in turn took the blade for themselves. A few hours later, my Quizat, Dellwyn Thornbleeder, came into contact with the Deep Trolls, and they informed him that they had a magical shortsword to trade for a certain item that they themselves had lost--an artifact of certain magical properties. As it happened, we were in possession of that artifact and I decided to make the trade for as any warrior knows, a well enchanted blade is worth far more than a bejeweled sash, no matter what the sash's magics. When the Deep Trolls showed me Slavetamer, I was surprised to see that it was no longer in the hands of the people of Ashbury. However, I was pleased to see that it was now in my hands.

Later that night, citizen Sunstar came up to me, thanked me for recovering "his" blade, and asked when I would be returning it. Apparently he thought that he still deserved the sword after it had already been proven that he and his companions were not able to hold onto the sword themselves. He seemed quite shocked when I expressed this to him, and he and his companions angrily left and sought out Faustus to try to get the sword back through the manipulations of law.

I wish to make it very cleat that I will not return Slavetamer now or at any time in the future. I have never supported the foolish notion of a "court of law," and I do not intend on starting now by following its orders or ever again participating in one of its "trials." Although I have been ordered to return the sword in exchange for an item identical to one I already possess, I will not.

My reason? Simply put, I do not recognize the idea of ownership past possession, although the "law" of Ashbury does. As far as I am concerned, certain things like land and jewels and magical items pass through many hands and many owners, for they outlive the victories and mistakes of any mortal owner. If Morgan was unable to hold onto the blade himself, then I shall certainly not give it back to him only to have it lost again. I did not use my time and my treasury to recover a permanent magical sword for someone else, as all of my resources are for the glory of the Shield of Vendamor.

However, I am not an unreasonable man. I accept the fact that Morgan is upset and saddened by his loss, and I have never once thought badly of him throughout this affair. Because I now wield Slavetamer, I will give him my former blade, crafted by my armorer and enchanted by Shalizar. It is a finely balanced shortsword magiced by a single Damage Aura that will last until the Shield celebrates its 40th anniversary of our founding in Niman. This sword was crafted for use as my personal weapon, and it was intended to seek out and destroy the brutish who plague Ashbury. I will give this blade to you, Morgan Sunstar, with the condition that you use it for the same.

However, I will not be harassed again by the Company of the Red Diamond (or whoever) over this matter. I was displeased with the attitude they took with me during this entire time, from their tone of voice to their constant harassment whenever I was in public, to following me out of the city in an attempt to divine where my men and I were traveling. Men do not usually act this way towards me, and it was all I could do to keep my Bashar, Unrok, from educating the entire Company in the ways of the Shield.

This matter is now resolved.

Vengeance for the Blood and Gold,

Deven Du'Leges

Regent of the Shield of Vendamor

A Little Birdie Told Me

by Sue D'Onym

Good day one and all. Here is the latest news that they don't want you to know.

I wish I had been there when Baron Bryan opened the present from Duchess Mara and discovered a small rattle inside. Was it the famed Nordenn Battle Rattle? Well, not judging by the red face Bryan had. Isabella was quite upset over the whole matter, especially when Quentin said "Can we call you Grandmother now?"

Baron Morgan, on the other hand, is all smiles since he found his long lost love (the magic sword he and Bryan took from Nozehaire the troll about a year and a half ago). He's been without it for over a year now, and in order to retrieve it, he had to travel to Endarr and make deals with bullywugs (don't ask).

Morgan is no longer number one, by the way. Yes, it's true--some mysterious fellow named Dar has beat him in the ongoing Dragon's Flagon chess tournament.

A poker game in the Flagon got to be too much for many participants recently. Left standing among the coppers were Algar, Natasha, Tawane and Naerfern. The Duchess played for a while and was doing quite well but had to leave to attend ducal things.

A gypsy party recently held in the Flagon was a great success. Tawane was holding secret meetings all night, and the only thing I've been able to learn from them is that the gypsies have made some sort of agreement with Unrok and the Shield of Vendamor. Poor Mason Sharebrook was stuck standing guard all night but said that the pay was worth it--"Tawane and Indigo are inviting me up to their room tonight to. . .compensate me," he said with a leer.

Zev-Sartane, Marcos Kinnear, and a few others are attempting to reconstruct an Alchemists' Guild in Ashbury since the departure of Max Manias. Avalon Trading Company merchant Shankar Vorg has apparently provided some backing for the group and let's hope they didn't have to give up too much to get it.

Sir Hieronymous is off to Evendarr where he hopes to find someone associated with the Royal Court to help him get rid of his mental difficulties. It seems that he frequently forgets where he is, who he is, or what he is. "I never had this problem until Tiercel removed my hatred of brownies," stated the Paladin.

Meanwhile (speaking of gryphons), Vassa is trying to determine whether or not it is illegal to kill a gryphon. The Duchess apparently has no great love for the beasts who, even in human form, tend to play games with us "lesser beings." The local biata however do not share Vassa's feelings. Keep reading for further developments!

And speaking of Paladins, Sir Konrad has been very seriously considering names for advancement into paladinhood. With Sir Angus dead, Sir Hieronymous insane and Sir Thyren constantly away, that leaves him all by his lonesome. Rumor has it that the top contenders are Sir Aloryn, Sir Eridan, and Sir Bretton.

The Duchess met with Sir Konrad, Dame Sonya, and Sir Aloryn for quite a long time on Sunday the 26th. I wonder what they talked about? All I know is that she seemed in a better mood than she has been in quite a while.

Just a quick piece of advice: If you see Deven Du'Leges and the Shield of Vendamor coming down the street while Morgan Sunstar, Lord Magistrate Faustus and the town guard are coming down the other way, run fast.

People are also on the lookout for a certain Captain Quogg of the ill-fated Gryphon. Quogg apparently got quite a few adventurers upset recently when he insisted that they "get crackin'" or something like that.

Here's a bit of advice I've heard through the grapevine: If you want to get the drop on Shalizar in such a way that she can't even get a spell off, surprise her. Enough said.

The upcoming graduation ceremony at the Bardic College on April 1st is sure to spill many jokers and clowns into town for that annual affair. Be careful that day! There is a rumor that the commencement speaker will be Harley, but don't hold your breath.

That's it for this month. Be sure to send me your true stories for later columns! All sources kept confidential. Ta ta!

Public Notices

ALL FORMER MEMBERS of the Town Guard who wish to rejoin must speak to Sheriff Truxton. No one will be considered a member of the Guard without his sanction. - Duchess Mara.

THE DUCHY WILL PURCHASE scrolls, potions, elixirs and magic items to use as prizes in the Commoners' Tournament. Sell us your items and win them back in the Tournament!

THOSE WHO WISH to gain instruction in chivalry and train for knighthood, seek out Bryan Nordenn for a interview for squireship. Four positions are currently available to those who seek a career in noble service.

MARA: Now neither of us can wear a greater shield! Your servant, Bryan.

SIR KONRAD seeks Primary component for Celestial Damage Aura. 10 gold offered.

RITUAL COMPONENTS WANTED! Black porcupine quills, black goose feathers, scorpion tails, pegasus pin feathers, celestial granite, and lesser water elemental essense. Good trade and gold value given. - Sir Aloryn.

WANTED: Mobile adventuring groups of at least six to conduct hourly rounds by the Ashbury Mages' Guild in return for a Ward spell. Dependability is most important. Contact Sorceress Shalizar for more information by March 30th.

TO THE EVIL IN ASHBURY: Beware! Law and Order is here! - Sheriff Truxton

WANTED: Sets of ritual components for the rituals Damage Aura and Permanence. Will pay handsomely for these components. Multiple sets are required (of both types). Please speak to Squire Hanson.

ALCHEMISTS OF ASHBURY! Having trouble finding recipes and lab space? Join the Alchemists' Guild! To open April 1, 595. Suffer no longer! Looking for a particular ritual scroll or component? Trying to sell some? Sign up in the Guild ritual directory and we'll do the looking for you! Also, excellent scribing and calligraphy service.

SORCERESS SHALIZAR will be performing all rituals at the Ashbury Mages' Guild during the month of April 595 for half of the normal fee. Ritual components purchased from the Guild will be sold at the normal price. You are encouraged to speak with Shalizar anytime before or during the month of April to make arrangements.

ANYONE WISHING to borrow the Earth Magic scroll Expand Enchantment should contact Marcos Kinnear through the Mages' Guild. Reasonable charge.

SHALIZAR: I hope you liked the poem and the jewelry; I know purple is your favorite color. And no, I'm not Unrok! Maybe one day I'll let you know who I am. Signed: ?

CITIZENS OF ASHBURY: Prepare yourselves. Fenris is coming.

ZEV-SARTANE IS LOOKING to purchase the scroll and components to the ritual Render Indestructible. Contact through the Alchemists' Guild.

NECROMANTIC ITEMS PURCHASED for disposal. Why give them away when you can redeem them for cash? See Rowell Ka'taan.

THE FOLLOWING ASHBURY MAGES' GUILD members must contact Sorceress Shalizar in person or writing by March 30, 595 or be considered suspended: Ariel, Jantos Avatar, Mathis Beorn-stanas, Crimdor, Ilrick, Peter Ivonovich, Roctor Klionasgath, Marshak, Caliandros Morcana, Tatsu Maki Norowaresaino, Slaransia Silverwood, Thorm, Trestin, Tatiana Verakoznie, and Vishulaun.

HEAR YE HEAR YE! The Shield of Vendamor will be accepting new wedges in the spring of 595 for the position of healer. All are welcome to apply. Please talk with myself or with Regeant Deven Du'Leges about traveling with us in the spring. - Quizat Dellwyn Thornbleeder

HANSON: It was impossible to solve my puzzle after only one clue, I promise you. Your pomposity is matched only by your incompetence. I devise puzzles when and where I choose. Your limited intellect cannot possibly come up with a serious challenge to me so I have no interest in whatever you have to say. - The Chessmaster

BROTHER FAUSTUS: Your crushing of our common enemy Bryan Nordenn is appreciated and indicative of your devotion to our cause. The elimination of his court will lead to our supremacy. You are our vessel of retribution. - The Fist

ASHBURY BEWARE! Your doom is coming! Revenge is sweet! - The Dark Seven

ASHBURY REGISTRY OF TEACHERS. Referrals for a wide range of skills. Discretion assured. Teachers: get students without spending all your time recruiting. See Prof. Turlough Kuranes.

WE CAN MAKE YOU RICH! The Ashbury branch of the Avalon Trading Company is looking for junior partners, security experts, and ship captains. Prior experience a must! Please inquire with Shankar Vorg, Senior Partner.

KILL ALL GRYPHONS! - Advice from a friend.