The following is a letter from the Lord Regent Count Requin Drager:
20 August 598
Citizens of Ashbury,
It is with heavy heart that I report the discovery of Duke Aramis Llyrr’s permanently dead body. It was unearthed in the ruins of the battle site in Tower Hills, Trellheim where the Duke was ambushed. Also recovered were the permanent remains of Dame Bodicia, Sir Rorn, Sir Eros, Sir Larson and Chancellor Xanthus. Dimsdale the Jester has not been found.
Conclusive evidence has been found that proves the Icenian Royal Court to be behind the death of the Duke. Our new Lord Magistrate, Sir Frost, has arrested Princess Lilyth Avacar and her entourage and placed them in the Capital Prison to await trial. Our soldiers are on the lookout for King Thrombolis who is still at large. Anyone encountering the Icenian King is to report to the authorities immediately. Fear not, for Justice will be done.
I know this comes as a shock to many of you who kept the flame of hope alive that His Grace was somehow still alive. We must not let this disheartened us. We must continue to fight against the rising odds.
Duke Aramis would have wanted us to do just that.
In the meantime, His Grace’s body is being sent back to the capitol for ceremonial burial in early September. Please join us for the funeral.
Sincerely,
Count Requin Drager
Lord Regent of Ashbury
Further information will of course be provided as the Ashbury Times learns details.
Count Requin, as the highest ranking noble, has assumed the title of Lord Regent of Ashbury and has enacted a series of laws and announcements meant to strengthen Ashbury’s defenses.
His first major announcement was the appointment of former Niman Ambassador Sir Frost as Ashbury’s new Lord Magistrate, and his councilor Ingregavor as the new Lord Chancellor.
He then imposed a series of new taxes on the citizens of Ashbury. The Lord Regent of Ashbury says it is a vital part of the war effort, but many people seem to disagree. All over the duchy, crowds have gathered in formal protest and civil unrest grows.
Last month, the Count imposed a tax called the “Conglomerate Tariff,” that applies to only the large-scale merchant groups. The Ashbury Merchant’s Conglomerate, being the only organization of said scale, has been the only group hit with the tax. The AMC has protested the Conglomerate Tariff and had refused to pay. As a result, Ducal soldiers, upon the orders of the Count, are closing down all businesses of the AMC.
Other taxes include an increase in livstock taxes, road taxes, and guild taxes. Healers and Mages Guilds across the duchy have appealed the Guild tax as it applies to them, but the Count’s tax collectors have ruled that since Ashbury is no longer a part of Evendarr, the Guild’s immunity from certain Ashbury laws and responsibilities has now ended.
On a recent Sunday morning adventurers attempted to regain command and liberate the fallen city of Tower Hills in Trellheim. While engaged in a relentless assault against the trolls, both friend and foe alike fell fast asleep, with not even an elf able to resist.
The adventurers found themselves in the Queendom of Dreams, otherwise known as Mythylandria. The Seneschal of this realm, whom some have met and who otherwise goes by the name of “The Lord of Heroes,” was there to greet the newly awakened adventurers to this strange realm. The gates rose higher than any known structure and the buildings were all different magnificent changing metallic hues. Their spires reached up into clouds and some even appeared to touch the sun.
It was explained to the adventurers that the reason they were all summoned there was because a large force of insects were invading the realm of dreams. The Queen herself appeared and elaborated on this. She said that the way they normally defend themselves is to conjur images and summon nightmares of what the invading army or individual fears and thus are forced to fight their own imaginations. However, these insects do not dream and the inhabitants of Mythylandria were forced to fight them in armed combat, some of which are not accustomed to doing.
Further problems were evidenced when the Boogeyman appeared, showing complete allegiance to the queen and yet attacking the Ashbans who were here to help. He caused several people to become enraged and so beserk that they attacked their allies and had to taken down and purified. The Queen later reprimanded him by making him do certain “un-Boogeyman things” like apologizing and promising a year free of nightmares to certain people that he has caused harmed to.
Several insects encountered were giant flies, beetles, fire ants, and praying mantis warriors. At one point, several adventurers traveling in the woods came across several dung heaps that were being guarded by the flies. They swiftly dispatched the heaps and set them ablaze, burning all remaining flies and larvae within.
The Boogeyman himself led a team of adventurers including Baron Agnar and his entourage on a scouting mission that resulted in the discovery of a huge dream-like fly. The Boogeyman immediately recognized the fly as being part dream creature. After defeating this creature, and taking this information to the quuen, it was learned that Xavier of the Black Unicorns had accidently created several dream insects out of the Dream Essence, the heart of Mythylandria where new dreams are “Born.” The invading insects had taken over the Realm of New Dreams and were beginning to nurture these new dreams to use for their own purposes. The queen attempted to nurture these new insect dreams, but when she arrived, a large force of insects had already taken over this area.
The adventurers were summoned immediately to take this area back and were led there by the seneschal himself. A grueling battle ensued that lasted almost an hour. Each wave was led by an insect dream creature that was each more deadly than the last. During the battle, several insects were heard talking amongst themselves, showing autonomy, rather than a group mind as insects have shown in the past. The tide of war was continuously at a standstill as many Ashbans were fighting hard and fighting long. But the lack of Life spells, stamina of the insects and the paralysis effects of the mantis warriors were just too much for the Ashbans to handle. Many people fell in battle that day, one dying permanently: the storyteller, dancer, and lady’s man Findrago Malreaver. He will be missed.
The Seneschal had stated that they were not the only ones with losses and that 242 dreams were permanently killed as well. Showing remorse for the events of the day, he said that he would do everything in his powers to help the Ashbans with the other problems their world faced. As a small token of thanks, the seneschal presented to the town the recipe for Amnesia.
War in Trellheim Continues
Once claiming they fought with honor, the trolls seem to have completely abandoned their codes and morals and have embarked on a “Total War” philosophy. They have spared no one in their path and have burned crops and local settlements.
However, in-fighting among the trolls seems be taking place. Surface troll forces have been seen fighting with Deep Troll companies within the Tower Hills, and it is rumored that the Troll General Bonescythe has handed several defeats to the Deep Trolls.
Bonescythe was the great troll warrior Fangthorn’s top general during his recent battle against Ashbury, and Bonescythe took over much control of the trolls after that defeat.
Ironically, it si the Deep Trolls who can lay claim to being the “heirs to Fangthorn” as they were handed Fangthorn’s sons by Ashbury adventurers who mistakenly trusted the creatures who claimed to want to raise the mutant children in the best interests of Ashbury.
Trolls marauding in the name of the Undoer and the Sunless Empire have put hundreds of captured Ashbans to the sword within the estate of Alegas. Villages and overun forts within the Tower Hills have been lit on fire and burned to the ground.
Troll forays into the estate of Nantes have been repulsed by Garrison forces augmented by two companies of Ash Forest footmen lent by Baron Agnar to Count Requin.
The Count’s forces have been pushing through the Northern quadrant of the Tower Hills slaying several hill troll companies loyal to the Sunless Empire.
On the western front, the assault by Galanthia and Dur Namarie seem to have stalled as both countries seem intent on the destruction of the other before consolidating their gains within Trellhiem. Ducal Forces have eliminated all opposition in Deathwatch, but fighting is very heavy within Battlewoods as all three countries seem to be battling for dominance.
Rumors of uprisings have occurred in the estates of Kurash and Roderick’s Rest due to the failure of the Galanthians to provide sufficient guards. Captured Galathians say the symbol of Galantri failed to be constructed in Roderick’s Rest due to traitors loyal to a renegade High Prophet called Torrelyn.
Announcements from Nyneve, Dor-Lilth, and Raquantri indicate that a new “state” has been formed called “Grisix” lead by the High Prophet Torrelyn. At least two companies of Galanthians have sworn alliegance to this renegade of Galanthia.
The map on the next page shows the areas of Ashbury that are currently under control of our enemies. As one can see from the map, the Sunless Empire has extended its control over the lands above ground.
The map below shows the general area around Ashbury as far as has been determined through conversations and trade with natives as well as with sailors and other adventurers who have traveled the new sea. The map is preliminary and may have mistakes.
The areas known as the “Plains of Rage” are those that are usually controlled by the traveling Frejyn Horde. Other places have been identified by name only, and information about them has not been as of yet obtained.
Of special interest and great disturbance is the identification of the island of Thessi in the lower southeastern corner which apparently has also traveled to this new place with us, and which is now closer than previously.
(Sorry; maps available in hard copy only. Join to get it mailed to you!)
Savage attacks were waged by Baronial forces against the estates of Grimsby and Ector recently, led by the courageous young knights Jonathan Dragonhart and Daniel Star Grimsby. Leading elements of Blythedale Rangers, Cavalry, Marines, and Footmen, the estate of Ector was attacked simultaneously from three sides. Forces were successful in pushing Galanthian troops back into the estate of Grimsby, and attacked retreating troops from behind from the estate of Hillcroft in Nordenn. Rangers and pathfinders ran into many snares and pitfalls rigged by the Galanthinas, which were neutralized to surprise Galanthian troops retreating to their poor earthen fortifications.
Baron Olin Nordenn supplied troops from Hillcroft to participate in the battle as well as providing critical logistics necessary to pass through his estates to attack conquered areas. One company of Galanthian troops is thought to have escaped while three other companies of Galanthians were put to the sword with minimal casualties on the side of Ashbury. Blythedale troops remain on alert for this missing Galanthian company, expecting them to harrass settlements by recrossing over the Green River.
The uprising in Dragonhart continues as the fanatical group known as the Sons of the Dragon continue their open rebellion. Speakers of this mutant group have been shouting excitedly, “The time of the prophecy draws near! The Dragonhart shall come to power! Alaric shall be restored to the throne!”
Elsewhere in Blythedale, over 1500 barbarians have stormed over the borders of Blythedale from the Vansir Reclaim. With few Baronial troops in the area, and their motives unknown, garrisons are on alert and hundreds of people have fled surrounding estates, fearing the worst.
by Solemn Judgement
In the attempt to learn more about the stars and their influences upon our lives, it was my recent privilege to study recently under the august tutelage of Prof. Flairtongue in Ashbury city. What follows here is the first portion of my notes on his lectures, which I present to the Ashbury Times in an effort to preserve and spread knowledge—the Sages Guild’s most sacred charge. Future segments will deal with the planetary bodies and the elemental influences. In this installment, the twelve signs of the zodiac are described, together with their likely influences over those born under them. Citizens should be advised that all residents of this new land refer to the months and seasons by the titles given here.
Zodiac Signs: The Constellations of Amora-Fortannis:
The twelve constellations that pass through the world’s ecliptic can be seen to hold the shape of animals (though other races and beings see different figures there). Each month brings the ascent of a different zodiacal constellation, and thus each month draws its name. The arrangement of the months bears a strong relation to that of the physical elements, with three animals for each one. Further, one animal of each allied physical element accompanies an avatar of the ruling element in each season.
Winter, ruled by Water, is bounded by the signs of the Turtle (an Earth creature at home in Water), the Dolphin (an avatar of Water), and the Swan (a creature of Air that rests often on Water’s surface). Turtle begins the season, as the time of Earth has just passed, and Swan presides over its ending, presaging Spring’s influence of Air: only Fire, Water’s enemy, is not represented in Winter.
Spring, ruled by Air, is begun by the sign of the Dragon (a creature of Fire which plays in the sky), centers on the Hawk (Air’s avatar), and concludes under the Serpent (a magical snake native to Water’s surface, and which molts into a winged form in its old age). Note the influence of Chaos in Spring, which has the effect of reversing the adjacencies seen in other seasons: Serpent and Dragon seem inverted in their proper order. Also notice that Earth has no place in Spring, when its enemy Air is ascendant.
Summer, ruled by Fire, is initiated by the sign of the Ferret (an Earth creature unafraid of Fire), ruled by the Salamander (the avatar of Fire), and completed by the Gryphon (a creature of Air that flies closest to the Sun). The inversion instigated by the Serpent (and the Moon) continues: and Water is not represented.
Autumn, ruled by Earth, begins with the sign of the Fire Ant( native of Fire with close ties to Earth), is ruled by the Lion (the avatar of Earth) and finishes with the Raccoon (a Water creature despite its dry home). The advent of Order in this season restores the proper adjacency among the months: the season is heralded by a Fire creature near to Summer, and is ended by a Water creature announcing the Winter ahead. Air is not represented.
To repeat the signs and their elemental influences (bold = the Avatar):
Water = Dolphin, Serpent, Raccoon
Air = Swan, Hawk, Gryphon
Fire = Dragon, Salamander, Fire Ant
Earth = Turtle, Ferret, Lion
Turtle opens the time of Winter, and is appropriately a creature hardy and deliberate enough to withstand both cold and the dominance of Water. The Turtle is nothing if not considerate; his mistakes will be those of missed opportunities, not of haste. A Turtle is dependable and predictable, and can be counted on when the unexpected occurs not to alters its course. A Turtle has a defence among the best in the animal kingdom, and is most aptly suited to dealing with survival: it is hugely uninterested in flights of fancy or new things.
Dolphin is the year’s second month and the prime month of Winter, the avatar of Water creatures. The Dolphin’s ease and playful demeanor are the most evident of all animals, and almost hide its grace and power. Dolphins are strong and resourceful, but never violent or needlessly aggressive. Some believe that human spirits which do not resurrect are instead cycled through the Spirit Circle which ascends in this month, to begin a new life as these humor-filled and intelligent lords of the ocean. Dolphins are loving and family-oriented, loyal to their mates for life and capable of grief-suicide if one is lost.
Swan is the third of the Winter months, a creature of Air which is at home on the surface of lakes and rivers. Swans raise their children over a long period, indicating strong family ties. They are angry in defence of what is right, but timid in matters of uncertainty. Swans are comfortable alone, and show poise and grace when on familiar ground. Many believe that the flight of swans presages Death; it is likely that this sign indicates a long journey of some kind, if not the final one.
Dragon is the fourth month of the year and the first month of the Spring season. It is a creature of Fire that plays in the skies: Dragons are among the most powerful of creatures, but prefer subtlety to brute force. Rather than lead, a Dragon manipulates those less educated into doing its bidding. Masters of magical energy, Dragons are among the wisest of creatures, but they tend toward laziness. Dragons love to be praised, and their help is often gained by a sycophancy that is not too obvious; this is appropriate to the time of Alliance among the elements. As long as their plans prosper, Dragons care little for the rest of the world.
Hawk is the fifth month of the year and the prime month of Spring, an avatar among creatures of the Air. Its flight is sure and without effort, and its vision is unequaled among the animals. The Hawk is a loner and a hunter, used to hardship and able to travel far for what it wants. Hawks value their privacy and defend their domain against intrusion.
Serpent is the final month of Spring (the sixth of the year), a Water creature with an aspect of Air. Serpent is an enigma, a magical being that most nearly contradicts itself. Slithering low upon the ground, it can also make its way over the surface of the water: later in life, it molts its final skin to reveal a feathered shape that can traverse the known world in a day. The Serpent is long-lived and very wise, but none can discern its ultimate council. The Serpent is poisonous and a constrictor, itself a contradiction, and it is reviled by all manner of creatures and beings, causing unrest and Chaos, as does this season where tumultuous Spring quickens into Summer. Like the Moon, Serpent is changeable and inconstant to those around it, offering fascination and promise but often delivering something else.
Ferret arrives with the seventh month, and is the first month of Summer, represented by an Earth creature not unknown to Fire. The Ferret, alongside only Man, is unafraid of flames, and this curiosity drives most of its energy. Some think the quick and nimble Ferret is able to understand human tongues, just as Mercury influences the season of rapid communication. Fiercely independent and hard to tame, Ferrets are yet capable of learning more than any other creature on four feet. Their difficulty comes in their lack of patience, not of intelligence: the world is so interesting they are likely to move on rather than hold still and study. Their loyalty is hard to win, but once won, impossible to break. Ferrets tend to hoard things that catch their eye (causing a degree of disruption appropriate to the month next to Chaos), and can eat most foods in a pinch.
Salamander is the eighth month of the year and the prime month of Summer, the avatar of Fire, literally bathing in it for its energy. It burns unaffected, and often is unknowing of the effect its flames can have on those nearby. The Salamander is an active, not an intellectual, creature; it is satisfied to be, and has no need to understand. It is short-tempered and decisive, which can be a bad combination of qualities. Its magical nature makes it very independent, yet also impractical—it does not need to eat to survive, for example. Like the love brought by Venus, the Salamander can be self-absorbed without actually willing harm to others.
Gryphon is the ninth month, the final month of Summer, an Air creature inured to Fire, as it flies nearest of all to the Sun unharmed. From their lofty vantage point, Gryphons are among those best able to see the total picture and to sense the meaning of larger consequences: this makes them very weak on details and impatient of exceptions to the rule. The Gryphon embodies the struggle and energy that is Life in this month. Gryphons fly very high, but not very far; they love their lairs and always return; their habits are deeply ingrained and nearly impossible to change. Gryphons are fierce with those they perceive as intruders, and will fight to the death anyone threatening either home, mate or young.
Fire Ant is the tenth month of the year, and the first month of Autumn. A creature of flame, the Fire Ant makes its home and living under the Earth; it is a symbol of industry and dedication to the common good that is quite appropriate to the harvest season. The Fire Ant is selfless and tireless, and willingly assigns its labor to a group effort, embodying Convergence. By the same token, Fire Ant is unreflective and can be quite inconsiderate, especially to anyone outside the group. Fire Ants are born soldiers, and a swarm of them can overwhelm a much larger creature when they are aroused.
Lion governs the eleventh month, and is the prime month of Autumn, the time of Earth. The Lion is the acknowledged king of beasts, and shows that pride of place. Lions have a strong mix of wisdom, strength and mercy in the pursuit of justice, which qualify them for lordship of the animals. They are natural leaders, and the Lioness is more often in charge than her husband. It is difficult with such proud and powerful creatures to teach anything new: Lions can be stubborn to the point of blindness.
Raccoon is the last month of the year, concluding Autumn. Raccoons, though living on the Earth, are quite familiar with Water, swimming with ease and always washing their food. Raccoons are both curious and intelligent, and can solve problems that stump larger and faster animals. They keep their burrows in perfect tidiness, and even arrange their loot by type. The circles around their eyes and nocturnal habits are well suited to this time of the shortest of days: Raccoons are thought to be immune to fatigue while never overexerting themselves. They are affable to those who show no threat, and capable of deep thought, especially with a puzzle or problem.
College: The discovery that Professor Xavier Kimball of the Black Unicorns had been enslaved to the Thessi for more than five months has worried many not only here but across the duchy; alchemists have been working overtime to create antidotes and all are worried: for if it took that long to discover a respected member of society was enslaved, who else could be infected?
Dor-Lilth: Fortune seeking adventurers have begun infiltrating this area now controlled by the Galanthians in search of members of the Stormholm family, missing since the area was taken over last month. The amateur archeologist Susan Stormholm is said to have a number of priceless and rare artifacts which could be worth a fortune, and these adventurers are certain that if she were to be rescued that the rewards would be great. Although none have yet been successful, reports from resurrected adventurers have told of clues involving an “underground.”
Nib: Farmers Guilds from around the duchy called an emergency meeting in this small town. The farmers are becoming increasingly concerned over both harvest yield and meat supplies for the year. Swarms of locusts have suddenly appeared, destroying crops. All over, plant life appears to be slowly wilting, even in the Ash Forest. Livestock have been struck with a strange new plague and are dying at an alarming rate. Farmers and ranchers fear a harsh winter.
Two Towers: A small riot in the small town of Kingsley in the estate of Two Towers broke out over the immediate closing of dozens of merchant businesses. Count Requin’s new Conglomerate Tariff is causing public outrage. Ashbury Merchant’s Conglomerate representative Laranick Shadak was there and had this to say: “We of the A.M.C. are appalled at the new taxes levied against the hard working people of Ashbury. As a formal protest against this harsh treatment of the common worker, the Ashbury Merchants Conglomerate have refused to pay the tax and our businesses are being shut down. But we shall not relinquish our support of the common workers and merchants of Ashbury. We shall fight this injustice.”
Letters
To The Dear People Of Ashbury,
It is with deepest sympathy that I write this letter, as it pains me to the very core of my being to see the people of this fair duchy walking about with downcast eyes and heavy hearts. Duke Aramis Llyrr was a bold, charismatic leader, and his death, so soon after his arrival to Ashbury as I am told, is a shock to all, including myself.
My greatest regret is that neither myself nor my husband, Sir Frost Vardik, were allowed by his Grace to become his friend. I was able to see his beaming smile from a distance, full of love for Ashbury and his subjects. I have heard tales of his heroism and determination in battle, and even though he held no fondness for my husband or the country from which we hail, he did not hide his feelings. It is only in a great many years that a leader so honest and true of heart is given to the people. He and his noble and stately Court will be mourned for years to come.
Fair people of Ashbury, I know you will not let this tragic loss impede you from defeating any enemy of the land. You have proven time and again to be as brave as his Grace believed.
In memory of Duke Aramis Llyrr and the Ducal Court of Ashbury, keep yourselves in brave spirit. Let us remember their love for this beautiful land, and the gifts they gave each and every one of us: their lives. Let the healing of the people, the true heart of Ashbury, begin once again.
With Sympathy,
Lady Dara Vardik
People of Tar’Navaria:
I have as of late summoned you to my world, and your unconscious world, in order for you to defend it from hostile invading forces. I know many of you have dreamt of anger and pain that you suffered while here and I am sorry for it. However you must realize that you saved your own realm from extinction as well.
Mythylandria exists simultaneously and in conjunction with your own world. If it were to fall, yours would as well. With no dreams, the world would go insane. And with no dreams, all would be depression.
The gift I gave to your Baron we like to call Amnesia. It is what we use when we make you forget something you have dreamt. Use this wisely, for if abused can lead to chaos and disaster. I trust it is in good hands with your kind.
You have good hearts, though some are misguided. You speak of aid in the night. You seek help in your dreams. You wish answers only I can give. I assure you that even now my people are working on finding all the answers you seek. You will be visited soon.
Queen Mythylandria
To the People of Ashubury,
A time of reckoning has come for all of us. Our enemies are great in number, and encroach upon our borders. The enemy, whether they be the Dur Numare or the Gallanthians or Trolls, have numbers of nameless hordes. However, they will never have the spirit of an Ashban. One Ashban has the heart of twenty such enemy. Your destinies are great and far-reaching. You must band together to fight all of these threats or all is lost. Your reckoning time that, choose to band together and fight together or die alone crushed by numbers. You have the choice.
As for me, my reckoning has begun. My mistakes will cost no others their lives. I am going to leave Ashbury to admonish the blood on my hands. I count all the citizens of Ashbury my friends, hence I can not allow me to endanger any of you. When I can repay my transgressions to the populace I shall return. Until then accept my apologies for all of death and destruction I have caused.
To the Barony of Nordenn, I feel your pain and I hope you can forgive an arrogant fool. Findrago was a good friend and the most free spirit I have ever met, as well as a good friend.
May the Unicorn’s light shine forever on you, and your futures be bright and hopeful.
Xavier Kimbal
by Sue D’Onym
It’s been a hectic time in the old town lately — enemies at every border, Thessi hiding behind every door, The Ducal Court all killed —and no one is telling a poor gossip anything. Ah well, allow me to share with you what little I have.
The saddest news is, of course, the permanent death of Findrago the gypsy who made everyone’s lives more interesting. I blame it on his desire, as stated in the last Ashbury Times, to become the new Duke. We all know that since Bryan’s sacrifice, Dukes don’t last long here.
Ta’Wané has been spending her time recently traveling around Ashbury trying to locate which gypsy tribes are still around and trying to determine what is going on with this new gypsy named Vlad who is claiming to be the new “Gypsy King.” She has a gypsymeet planned for early October, where she will be bringing back many of these gypsies in an attempt to reform her own tribe.
The kilted fellow Patrick has chosen to squire to Sir Jaret recently. It’s not clear whether Sir Jaret took him on because he thinks Patrick is a good choice for a knight, or if he just wants to keep a closer eye on him.
Briqa and Braq, the two little sarr children who lost their “pedar,” were in Ashbury recently looking. It turns out that “pedar” means “father” and Rasq is the guy who abandoned them when they were born. When he was found, he actually had a hard time convincing them that he was the one, as his children towered over him.
Newly un-enslaved Professor Xavier has taken quite a liking to the new pledge to the unicorns, Arden Grey, a relative of ex-Baron Tristan. Xavier had better watch out because Raiden likes her too. Will there be trouble in Unicorn Paradise? Xavier, by the way, claims that he gave away no information to the Thessi while enslaved all those months, but then again, they would make sure that he wouldn’t remember doing so, wouldn’t they?
Speaking of Thessi, there is apparently some “Ambassador” from Thessi on his way to the capital to meet with Count Requin.
Robert Oakwood will have to watch his back (nothing new there) because it seems there will be a new wine merchant in town soon. Robert’s business has dropped tremendously because his sources no longer exist (Can’t get Voltan Ale when there is no Volta). And who is this new supplier? Well, let’s just wait and see, shall we?
And just what was that creature hanging onto Inaque? It’s nice he’s managed to find love in Ashbury though. Cheers to him.
Belinda the wild elf has been stirring up trouble in the Ash Forest recently; Teril is apparently aware of her and has been keeping his distance.
Grandin LaMoore apparently has finished his traveling around Ashbury and will be back in town soon, and he is certain to be surprised by all of the changes! Say, has his pal Derek turned into a revenant yet?
Also coming back to Ashbury soon: Sorceress Shalizar. I am sure that Guildmistress Kismet will be on her best behavior. . .but I wouldn’t want to get between these two!
Well, that is all for this month. Be sure to submit your News They Don’t Want You To Know and remember — If you can’t say something nice about someone, come sit by me!
In Memory of Findrago
Oh Findrago my friend
How could it thus end
You knew it was coming
But you’d change nothing
Living happy, carefree
Life to you came so easy
You entertained us all
With your jokes and stories tall
I wish I had known you longer
Of character I know none stronger
Now we must carry on without you
And somehow make do
Upon our foes shall pranks I play
In memory of your honored name
- Inaque Quigley
YOU CAN KNOW THE FUTURE: Through the mystic might of the Tarot. Qualified Astrologer offers readings to any citizens with the time and interest to examine the influences and forces which surround their lives. For a reading you judge accurate, a fee of 2 SP is asked. Seek the Man in Grey
FINDRAGO: I will always remember looking at the comet together and then dancing in the tavern on that wild winter night. The fire in the tavern was warm, but not as bright as the fire of your spirit and the warmth of your smile. The Flame that is my memory of you burns within me for always. I will miss you. – Salamander
ATTENTION all citizens of Ashbury: The Korabwa council will be meeting in your lands to discuss policies and the election of a new councilmember. Do not be alarmed by this sudden explsion of Korabwa citizens within your fine city. We will obey your laws while there, and treat the place as if it was ours. – Speaker to the CouncilSh'ree J'ree of the Skunk Tribe
TO MY DAGOREDHIL FRIEND: It has been many turns of the moon since we have spoken as friends. Let us remedy this soon. – Nimring
TO THE BARONY OF NORDENN and especially Natasha: Our hearts go out to you in your time of sorrow and we wish to express our deepest sympathy to you all. A bright and joyous light has been taken from us and the lands. Even though his is loss felt by all, we all are better for knowing him. Take heart for he will be remember well by all and that he died the way he wished… Free. Till axes part.
WANTED: Ritual Scrolls for any of the following rituals: Audible Projection, Audible Projection Improved, Permanance, and Regenerate. Also interested in Eyeball of a Drake, Assassin’s Dagger, and almost any Uncommon, Rare, and Special ritual components. See the Court of Nordenn.
THE RENOWNED BARD Lextalion Epicspinner will be performing at the Dragon’s Flagon at 9:00 pm on September 5th, 598. The performance will be free to all. Listen to wondrous tale of heroism about Ashbury’s biggest heroes and a comedy about one of Ashbury’s clowns.
TO ALL GOOD PEOPLE OF ASHBURY: There is a problem that vexes me / The cause of which is simply remedied / You may all call me by name / But not one of you spells it the same / For those who know of letter’s way / My name is spelled Inaque