Energy Surge Through Leylines Wreaks Havoc

Magic Mayhem
Destroys Property and Leaves Countless Dead

The eve of 7 Chillset, 1277, was one of death and disaster all across Hyathis. A sudden surge of magical energy, its origins unknown, erupted from the Northern Portal in the Crosswinds Tavern, leaving damage and chaos in its wake. Many mages in the area appeared to be strongly affected, some falling quite ill.

The unexplained surge careened through the ley lines, emerging randomly through other portals in Hyathis to cause damage, strange magical events, natural disasters, and even deaths. It was days before the portals began to function again, and some took longer than others. There are rumors that some portals have ceased functioning altogether, while new portals have formed elsewhere. Are they stable and safe? Only time will tell. The populace is understandably wary about their use, remembering the instability of all things magical in the spring of 1275 that led to the gathering of the archmages in Blossombud of that same year.

Those knowledgeable about the Northern Portal observed that some of the runes on the frame appeared to be cracked, broken or missing entirely. Damage to the Crosswinds, was minimal. However, the magical ability of the building to repair itself seemed to happen at a slower pace than usual.

Two cycles after the cataclysmic event, recovery efforts are still ongoing. The magic itself, however, seems to be functioning properly and we have the reassurance of experienced mages that the leylines are back to normal. 'Normal,' when referring to magic, can be wildly unpredictable. As in all things magical, caution is strongly suggested.

Out With the Old,
In With the New

During a private ceremony on the 18th of Moonshare, 1277, Sherakai dan Rikash, Baron Streylan, was installed as the Steward of Dreven. The appointment follows the sudden illness and resignation of former Steward Raphael Dolek, who will take his retirement in Luminii in the cycles to come. Lord Streylan was Dolek's weaponsmaster before taking a break, then going on to take the reins as general to Dreven's armies. An outlander, dan Rikash is viewed with equal parts suspicion and relief. Rumors suggest that dan Rikash was ready to boot the failing Steward out. Only time will tell if Dolek's illness was merely timely or contrived.

REWARD

will be paid by
Weaponsmaster Ricoh Gideonn
for the apprehension, DEAD or ALIVE, of
Ethan Swann

Swann is wanted for
murder, kidnapping, and TREASON.

Inquiries may be made at
Taysáyad in Dreven.

Food for Thought

Something new is cooking in the River District. And it smells fantastic. Aidan Moore, a retired university educator has gotten together with Danisia Chambray, the ex-wife of our dear Steward and the renowned creator of the Streylan Mint tea plants, to create a way to help feed the children of the poor this winter. With the help of many others from all walks of life, both through donations of coin and materials, they have repaired and refurnished a building in the River District and turned it into a school for the poor. To encourage attendance, Miss Chambray and others she's recruited cook and serve the students nourishing meals. It costs the students nothing to attend and it provides a warm place and decent food as well as a basic education.

"We hope to include a healer sometime in the future as many of the little ones are suffering from more than malnutrition," Moore told this reporter. "Whether or not this project will survive will mostly depend on interest of the children and their families. So far, most parents have been enthusiastic about the school."

• Midford - Farmer G. Dyreng's prize bull escapes. Tramples fences, gardens, and Mrs. Julia Harding.

• Littleton - Residents recovering from watery results of Cataclysm create new Lake Little.

• Vaille - Local perfumer Danton Tovey awarded 100gp prize in contest.

Yearpass Gala Held

Silver Moon Knights, soldiers of the Shadokhan Army, and their families were invited to Yearpass dinner at Fort Ubolutiin. 1278 was welcomed with music, merriment, food, and gifts for the children. Several ladies gave up time from their own holiday celebrations to cook and serve meals. Local businesses, including Faery Delights Bakery and Cartwright's Toy Shop, contributed some of their wares for the event. Music was provided by the Lucky Rogues Quartet.

All present were also treated to stories told by Mr. Raymond Lexington, who was the oldest person in attendance. He also passed out the gifts for the children.

Aid For Shadokhan

Donations Wanted: blankets, foodstuffs, clothing, livestock, tools, building materials, herbs for medicinal use, vivomancers and geomancers. Please bring your donations and/or inquiries to Sergeant Mead at Fort Ubolutiin.

Sun and warm temperatures are predicted for the first part of Blossombud, with rain and some snow expected for the middle part of the cycle. Cold temperatures will follow, but there will be plenty of sunshine to bring out those first flower buds.

Shadokhan Staggers
Under Double Blow

Dreven - On the 28th of Goldfall, two days before his scheduled coronation as Shadokhan's new king, Sherakai dan Rikash was set upon in the streets of Dreven, poisoned by darts, and forcibly abducted. Officials just recently appointed to the new administration were left holding the proverbial bag while the Wardens, also newly minted, scrambled to find and recover the suddenly missing steward. The assailants, allegedly garbed in the uniform of the Malcoven Guard, escaped without a trace. The few witnesses to the attack, which took place in a residential area, could make no positive identifications but did agree on the style of the uniforms. Balthazor Ambassador to Shadokhan Ilda Mennth was immediately taken into custody.

Only days later Chief Warden Mikkaill Gideonn and Weaponsmaster Ricoh Gideonn left the city accompanied by Streylan's sixteen-year-old son, Liam. If there was an explanation made to those in charge, they did not share it with the populace. In the city, the remainder of the Wardens continued their relentless search.

And then misfortune became catastrophe. Not even a tenday after the abduction, the magic of the leylines erupted, leaving Shadokhan reeling. Curiously, damage at the source appears to have been much less than damage further away. Reports of the devastation still continue to arrive nearly three full cycles after the event. While Chancellor Ambray coped with trouble on the home front, Steward dan Rikash was carried, badly wounded, to Fort Wantlokin in Luminii, where he was attended by vivomancers and then departed to continue his recovery at an undisclosed location.

Upon his return to Dreven in mid-Bitewind, dan Rikash mobilized the Shadokhan Army to give assistance in cleaning up disasters and helping to rebuild homes across the region. Funds have been solicited from areas unaffected, and relief efforts have been organized. In a significant cooperative effort, merchants and shopkeepers have joined forces with many of the region's gentry and are, under the steward's direction, holding events during Tivili in order to provide further assistance.

Appointments

His Excellency Steward dan Rikash has been pleased to appoint Denari Ambray to be Lord Chancellor of Shadokhan, Mikkaill Gideonn to be Chief Warden, Ricoh Gideonn to be Weaponsmaster of Taysáyad, Corun Dunbar and Joseph Talrayn as Judges within the Office of the Magistrate, and Tomas Ainvar as Secretary to the Steward.

Theft of Livestock - Rodney Woodburn accused of stealing three chickens. Branded and fined.

Kidnaping - Lula Darwall, in the matter of abducting and carrying off the infant daughter of Lester and Matilda Gailey and claiming maternity, 5 years imprisonment.

Fencing of Stolen Goods - Tamolion Narliththir, elf, alleged of Triad employ. Fine of 750 gold pieces.

Graverobbing - Carlton Clegg and Ralph 'Stubby' Carver, branded and 2 yrs imprisonment.

Interview or Arrest?

In yet another example of the Dreven government's disdain for the long-standing Dreven Pact, which forbids the arrest of criminals within the sanctuary of the Crosswinds Tavern unless the crime for which they are being arrested occurs within the tavern itself, Wardens in the employ of Steward Sherakai dan Rikash escorted Crosswinds bar wench Vellys Marsh from the tavern on 4 Earthfreeze. The Wardens, a new branch of the Dreven military whose sole purpose is to protect the Steward's person -- at the expense of the average citizen? -- sought Miss Marsh out for questioning regarding the steward's alleged kidnapper, Ethan Swann.

Miss Marsh has been seen in Mr. Swann's company on several occassions and spent, after her public arrest, near a cycle locked up in the Dreven gaols. Her return to the tavern was given little fanfare, though rumor has it that the Steward himself set her free. Miss Marsh declined to comment. Miss Marsh is not the first Crosswinds tavern worker to be put to the question and spend time in the city gaols. The tavern has a history of employing alleged troublemakers, such as current bartender, gamesman, and self-proclaimed mayor Cristian Cadec, and the missing former owner of the Crosswinds, Zharyka Jelahldoran.

Silver Moon Knights
to Receive Pensions

Private funding has been arranged for Silver Moon Knights that retire due to age or severe injuries to receive pensions. Families of those knights that have fallen in the line of duty may also make a claim for the funds. For recently deceased knights, proof of marriage or acknowledgment of children must be provided to prove eligibility. Affidavits from the appropriate magistrate's office will be accepted. Inquiries may be made of Sgt Edgewood at Fort Ubolutiin.

It's Tivili!

Dreven, Shadokhan - Spring is on its way, and Dreven City is humming with excitement and anticipation for the upcoming three-day Tivili celebration. Shows, competitions, exhibitions, street fairs, auctions, public and private trades and deals -- as well as the time-honored announcements of true love forever -- mark this traditional festival. The city is packed to the rafters. Lodgings are at a premium, and many folk have rented out private rooms in their homes as well as turning whatever extra rooms they might be able to spare into temporary guest quarters. Many less reputable establishments are selling floor space in their common sleeping areas, lofts, or storage rooms, and prices are often astronomical, in spite of a mandate from Steward dan Rikash.

While the official festivities are scheduled to begin on the first day of the cycle, performers are already providing entertainment at local theaters, taverns, the university, and street corners. Schedules for games and contests are posted in the Market Square, and further information can be obtained from Competition Registrar, also located in the Square (see the green and yellow striped tent).

The celebration will come to a conclusion on the evening of Blossombud 3 with a Music and Food Festival to be held in the Market Square. Traditionally, Tivili closes with a ball at Taysáyad, but the new steward, who graciously hosted last year's Tivili Ball at his own home, suggested that the coin would be better spent in providing aid to those people and areas most severely damaged by the recent Leyline Eruption. This year, local businesses have been invited to help host the event, which will feature food, beverages, music, and dancing from each of the regions.

With the influx of visitors -- and an increase in crime -- the office of the Magistrate has issued a warning, advising all citizens to exercise caution, common sense, and patience. Silver Moon Knights are assisting the Dreven City Guard in protecting the innocent, and it is strongly recommended that crimes are reported immediately.

Crosswinds Tavern Enjoys Benefits of Expansion

Dreven - Early Goldfall saw completion of an addition to the ever-popular Crosswinds Tavern just south of Dreven City. The two new private dining rooms are enjoyed alike by businessmen, officials, and visitors from out of town, and seem to go hand-in-hand with some other improvements. A broad selection of exotic beverages as well as some distinctive Shadokhani libations cater to the tastes of the elite, while some good 'house' brews and a variety of ales appeal to those with a little less coin to throw about. Surprisingly, the Crosswinds is one of the few establishments that can handle the mix of social stratums with aplomb. Neither the proprieter nor his daughter-and-partner will confirm rumors that the menu, too, is soon to be overhauled. One wonders if food fit for a king will be served side by side with the well-known 'Stone Stew.'

Along with changes to the tavern itself, Siengen's Smithy and Livery nearby is seeing brisk business. The Livery is equipped with two carriages and a flatbed wagon, with a dozen horses available for rent. The smithy produces they typical horseshoes, railings, hinges, nail, etc. Custom orders are also welcom. Owner Kaspar Siengen has announced plans to further expansion in the spring.

Draper's Meeting

We are requested to announce that a meeting of the Dreven Drapers Guild will be held at the Paxton Street Drapers, owned by Mr. Dereman, on the evening of Blossombud 15. A full attendance is requested and any persons wishing to join will have an opportunity of so doing.

For Sale

Canopied bed, 127 years old. Perfect for antique lover. 36 Hayden Way, Dreven.

Residence for Sale

To be sold at auction on Hawk Day, Blossombud 11th, subject to such conditions as will be then and there produced by Mr. Garland Fishman, Attorney, the freehold house lately occupied by Mrs. Nancy Freeman, deceased, comprising a good parlor, hall, kitchen, and pantry, two bed chambers, two dressing rooms, attic for servants, and two larger rooms over the kitchen, a large vaulted cellar, with a stable and outhouses, and an excellent Garden. For view of the premises apply to Mr. G Fishman.

Creating Charm

Master Oriargon's Arsenic Complexion Wafers will work wonders, quickly clearing the skin and bringing out all charms. Thoroughly guaranteed safe and non-habit forming. Five coppers and one silver per tin. Inquire at Asanilaer Glitterbuck's Apothecary just east of Market Square in Whitestone Court.

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Oceanuusians
Making Waves

Repercussions from the violent magical outburst of the portals in S'osha have left the landscape completely changed. A giant-sized ripple of geomancy enlarged the southwestern portion of the Big Island all the way past what was previously the island of Loesan. Once home of the ghost town Purnnula, its empty and abandoned buildings are now completely gone. Buildings and streets around the Xieng Khouang portal are still being repaired. As some buildings are unburied, others have disappeared entirely, and the death toll continues to mount.

Aloryn Thar, the new palace whose construction began under the direction of the Devvol twins, is now completely landlocked. There is some speculation that access to the sea will again be developed, but before that can be done it is necessary to inspect and repair the palace's basic structure.

Gangdoh and Ki Kumodi have been cleared of most of the damages suffered from the ice storm that struck the northernmost of the Shallowreef Islands, but efforts continue to reconstruct damaged homes and businesses, and to restore the growth of vegetation that was completely killed off.

Among the political rumors drifting about the islands is one that claims that Steward dan Rikash was a guest of Aikiliano Bashar at Crimson House. What this means is yet to be seen, but mid-Bitewind saw a delegation of barons and government officials setting sail for Port Ethralest. Curiously, there are reports that the distance to that fair city had somehow increased. Another effect of the Leyline Disaster, or the consequence of too much Makwi?

Arborian Rustlings

As of the eve of publication no one has heard a peep from the Elves of Arboria in cycles. It seems that closing off its borders means a total retreat from the rest of the former Silver Moon Empire. Not even strained relations with its rival region Balthazor can stir Arboria from its locked room.

One cannot even blame the recent upheavals reported in EVERY region but Arboria -- does anyone even live there? -- for the troubles since this isolationist policy began well before. This writer wonders if some plague has run rampant across the whole of the region and wiped every single long-eared, tree-hugging slender willow reed out.

Only the occasional presence of the bard Xiphras Snowmoon and word that the twin brothers Gideonn recent traveled there to conduct legal business gives any clue that Arboria still exists and does some kind of business. The bottom line is that we in Shadokhan are seeing more outlander elves these days than native.

The magistrate is out on whether this is a good thing or not.

Cloosidian Update

News from Cloosidian continues to be erratic. Refugees from the magic-torn region tell tales that are too incredible to believe. Whether or not anything of the mountainous area remains habitable is uncertain. Some humans have made their way into other regions, but the icy snows of winter have hampered most travel. Of the Seleventi and of the mages that inhabited the Aerie, we are still left to wonder and to speculate.

News from Luminii

Our correspondent from Luminii seems to have gone missing. Between the affects of the Magic Disaster, news that the Archon and several of his council have been murdered, and the martial law decreed by General Ryder, what can one expect?

Rumors from Balthazor

Fadefrost, 1278 - In the horrendous aftermath of the Nexus Cataclysm, Balthazor is picking up the pieces and communication from the region is sporadic at best, conflicting at worst. Trade coming out of Balthazor has been stalled. Conflicting reports had the Council of Barons all dead. It is now known that this is not so, though many of the barons and baronies have not been heard from. Much damage was done by the magical surge all over Balthazor and thousands are reported dead, missing and undead. Kamal Dreven, self-appointed Regent of Balthazor, issued a statement claiming he has not heard the news of any baronial deaths as a result of the Cataclysm and that everything possible is being done to resume trade with other regions. If he is still alive, Aris Ioannes has been granted the title of Viceroy of Riverside by the Barons. Ioannes took over the barony when the late Esmerelda Arcturus passed away in the Spring of 1277.

These latest disasters come on the heels of the loss of Dreven's Malcoven Guard Captain to Shadokhan's new Steward, Kai dan Rikash. On the night of Mooncalling, Captain of the Malcoven Guard Ricoh Gideonn resigned his post after a very public fight with a beast of uncertain origins at the Crosswinds in Dreven. After protecting the Regent, the half-elf informed him that he was stepping down to go to work for the new Steward. Kamal graciously accepted his resignation on the spot, recognizing the conflict of interest as Gideonn's own brother, Chief Warden Mikkaill Gideonn, and his wife, Bliss Lovejoy-Gideonn, serve the Steward of Dreven. The Malcoven Guard Captaincy has been passed on to Adil Mennth.

The body of a messenger from Malcoven was found on the Cracked Pass north of Dreven in Bitewind, 1278. The body had been looted and abused by both elements and animals before it was found. The Army's Investigative Corps, in conjunction with the Silver Moon Knights, are looking into the death.

Ilda Mennth, Baroness Sturrbith and Balthazor's Ambassador to Shadokhan, was released today. Mennth was moved from Taysáyad's dungeon - where she'd been since being arrested by Warden Gideonn - to house arrest in the Ambassador's chambers in Taysáyad at the beginning of Fadefrost, when it was confirmed by authorities that Bathazor had no part in the abduction of Steward dan Rikash. Baroness Sturrbith was arrested because Malcoven Guardsmen were found at the scene of the abduction of the Steward in Goldfall. Mennth was not available for comment.

Thermador

Make up what you like about Thermador. We are!

Wanted: Brave abductor. Rugged strength a must, good looks a plus. Inquire at 24 Crowfoot Lane, Dreven. Take me away!

Seeking Bath Attendents: Male and female. Tersham Street Bathhouse. Only those of the most upright character need apply.

Port Ethralest Going Native

Port Ethralest- Over the last year or so this sleepy little port of shipyards and sailors has seen astounding growth. In 1274 a garrison of Klockwork soldiers stationed there drew the attention of the Pirates, who nearly destroyed the town in the efforts to rid it of the Klock infestation. A change in regime, economic crisis, and the advent of several would-be warlords made recovery a slow and painful process. Two years after the attack, Kili Bashar returned to power in the islands, and - much to the surprise of citizens - extended an offer to help rebuild.

The offer was accepted. It was Bashar, after all, that had put Ethralest in this position! Today, the shipyards, docks, and warehouses are expanded. The traffic the port sees has invited more businesses to move in. S'oshans that once sought assylum here have made this their home. The streets are patrolled by the Town Watch. The recently appointed mayor is Half-lo.

On top of this, Ethralest is becoming a hub of trade -- free and unrestricted trade. It has been put about that the steward's government has no interest in intefering in trade, which suggests that tax collectors have been operating illegally. Monies that previously went to supporting that government, along with its army, officials, buildings, and so forth, is now being used to benefit Port Ethralest and her people.

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