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November 12,2020: Our Winter Story Arc has began, Read More. Auto-account creation. Please join us in Discord.
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Difference between revisions of "News and Rumors"

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     Most recent events go first, but never above mine or staff summaries.
 
     Most recent events go first, but never above mine or staff summaries.
 
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=August 2022=
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===Sunday, Aug 28, 2022===
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With the threat of war gone for now, life has become calm and mundane. Fields are tended, families grow and expand, and life goes on largely unbothered. But, whispers ripple through the marketplace occasionally of mysterious shadows creeping across the continent. Though no alarm has been raised by the majority, the elder natives of Cuiviénen seem to speak in hushed tones of a shift in the breezes. For now, the harvest season approaches and many make preparations for the first reaping.
  
=August 2020=
 
  
== Week One (RPCSS Turn 9)==
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=January 2022=
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===Raeyithia===
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A celebration was held in the Tarasinau hearth home to celebrate the coming year, and the hopes that come with it.  At the conclusion of the festivities, to symbolize the new changes, Lady Rendethryn Stormsong was crowned Queen of Raeyithia.
  
=== Failed Raid near Brighwell ===
 
  
A raid has occurred near Brighwell that ended poorly for the attackers. During a nighttime assault on the manner house, a local shepherd boy roused from sleep as his flock stirred nervously. Spying the would be assailants, the boy took off and warned the manner in time to fortify their position. The raiders tried in vain to pry their way into the house, even lighting it on fire at one point, but a sudden storm and downpour brought those plans to naught and the attackers, suffering a few causalities they carried away with them, fled into the night. (Contact Ovadya|Ethan in discord if you wish to pursue this line of RP)
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=September 2021=
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===Raeyithia===
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Word comes from the capital city of Tarasinau that Lady Rendethryn Stormsong of Carigsay arrived with assistance for the city in their time of need. With the food, supplies and labor provided, Tarasinau, and the kingdom of Raeyithia as a whole, is being revitalized to its former splendor. There are further rumors that Lady Rendethryn may stay permanently in the city, but this has not been verified.
  
=== A Raid near Dornear===
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=August 2021=
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==Week Four==
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===Emlyn===
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Upon the walls of Caerleon flies the banner of Emlyn's new royal couple, King Eli and Queen Melinda Dahmut. The last few months have kept the royal couple busy following a rocky start to their reign. Despite this, the monarchs have kept busy tending to their people and their duties to the kingdom and its safety. Most recently, the border estates that had been lost in the war with The Great Northern Army have been reclaimed and stabilized. The victory has seen a wave of relief over the citizens of Caerleon and has proven to be catalyst in the kingdom's recent bloom.
  
News remains quiet out of Dornear, but rumors appear in Evervale that a manor belonging to the Dornear region was raided and the entire estate's family and retainers missing. Gold and a few valuable resources were also said to be missing. Little evidence remains to point at the culprits. While no official acknowledgement has been forth coming, the rumors swirl as to the sudden commencement of so much raiding in the world. Who could be next? (Contact Ovadya|Ethan in discord if you wish to pursue this line of RP)
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==Week Three==
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===Kraestret===
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Long-time resident and businesswoman Sahja Khouri was named Mayor of Drokkburg last week in a surprising announcement. Claims of leadership across the kingdoms are neither uncommon or unexpected, however this is likely the first declaration as mayor of a capital city. And while having no authority to dispatch armies in case of attack, Miss Khouri is dedicated to the safety of the city as much as her capacity allows. "Drokkburg was the first place I felt truly home in - her people helped me feel part of their fold. I love this city and this kingdom. I felt it was time for me to give back and help," the mayor said. However, one can only wonder what has become of the king.  
  
===The Hospital, the Temple, and the Imaret===
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When questioned about King Julian's thoughts on the matter of the new appointment, Miss Khouri stated she had his full backing. Attempts were to reach out to King Julian for comment were unsuccessful. Curious eyes are now watching the new mayor and waiting to see what comes of her efforts in the coming months.
  
The city of al-Shadiya, rocked by two major bouts of violence in the past month and a half, now turns to the arts of healing and prayer to mend its broken spirit. The Hospital of al-Shadiya, headed by the head tabib Ovadya al-Shaanan, opened not long after the turmoil began. It's rumored to have helped cure the Vizier of poisoning and lent assistance to both Brea of Midrvegr and Maeve of Emlyn in their time of need. It continues to offer healing services supported by Tyrseus and the palace.
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=May 2021=
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==Week One==
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===Caerleon===
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Rumors of a new young couple has entered the Kingdom of Emlyn, arriving at Port Leon. Upon their arrival guards were no where to be found and a orc camp had an adventurer hostage inside the city gates. Together, the adventurer was freed and the guards were sought out and new agreements were reached to provide protection to the city with all accounts in arrears were settled.
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Additionally, there are more rumors that someone has begun to attune to the hearth stone and working to regain proper balance so the kingdom would thrive once more. Supposedly these new people of some noble background have been accepted and now they are looking to fill several estate and household roles.
  
Likewise, a new temple has opened in al-Shadiya: The House of the Sun, the Moon, the Starry Sky. It is headed by the esteemed priestess Qheela Aslani, tirelessly dedicating the actions of the temple toward charity to the poor and honoring the Acrab, Cassia, and Hekanani. Many have flocked to her temple in search of aid and respite, including the attentions of a woman of remarkable grace seen frequenting the temple of late.  
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=November=
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In the month of November and December we ran a winter quest. The news and rumors of the quest are recorded here.
  
Lastly, the hospital of al-Shadiya has sponsored the opening of an alms kitchen, known locally as an imaret, in al-Shadiya next to the hospital itself. While ostensibly supported through the vizier and donations to the hospital, the kitchen is likewise supported by selling gahwa to the public at large as well. Eskewing the deep fabrics and cushioned seats traditional of the rest of the city, the gahwa house is unusual for employing the use of wooden chairs and high tables: perhaps a sign of the tabib's more ascetic style?
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===Thursday, Dec 10, 2020===
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<i>Now that the spell has been lifted our heroes begin to return to their homes on the Mainland.  The Red Robes have fled, and few can be seen any more in Evervale.  Fights have broken out all over as any number of people enact revenge on any red robes they can find.  There are plans for the estate owners to call a gathering on Monday Night to discuss the state of the world and what needs to be done.  Some ask, was this the doing of Abraxes? Or just a very complex plot managed by a few fanatics. Yet the Grey Rider and Brother Thomas have not yet been found -- our heroes await any news that will give them hope to bring this red robe to justice and hopefully find the Grey Rider alive.</I>
  
=July 2020=
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===Tuesday, Dec 8, 2020===
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<i>Rumors that the child-eater had escaped Underhill and had taken refuge in the Dark Forest of Summer Isle quickly spread through the people of Evervale. Before long, a group of brave men and women set out to apprehend the fugitive once and for all. The Dark Forest is no safe place and the group was beset by goblins and other denizens of the region, however, the drive and determination of the group never waned.
  
==Week Four (RPCSS Turn 8)==
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No trail of the wicked fey was given, only the region, and the group trekked deeper into the woods until they reached The Dark Tower. Expecting to find clues or remnants of the child-eater's presence, they encountered a far more sobering sight: a mage circle carefully crafted upon the floor of the tower and a dozen red robed figures focused and chanting around it.
  
===Abraxes in Andus: A Sign of Divinity===
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At first, shock and fear gripped the heroes, for magic is punishable by death, though both of these emotions made way for quick anger. Seizing two of the mages, the heroes managed to interrupt the mages just before the spell was cast and in that moment, the rest of the red robed mages magically transported themselves away. Demanding answers to panicked questions, the mages that remained revealed the illusion spell created by none other than Brother Thomas to make the entirety of Summer Isle believe The Brotherhood was in control. The mages themselves were held by threats to perform the spell each night to keep the isle complacent. Now that the spell was broken and the circle destroyed by the heroes, the men and women of Summer Isle would soon regain all their memories.
  
After the fall of the slaver regime in al-Shadiya, the remnants of those defeated escaped into the deep desert to raid and bide their time. Through a vision received both by Maeve, Regent of Emlyn, and Qheela, Priestess of Andus, it became apparent that Abraxes would attempt to utilize these remnants to attack al-Shadiya in a bid to topple the new Vizier and develop a foothold in Cuiviénen.  
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Even as the heroes regained their memories in anguish, recalling those missing and the crimes committed by others, one glaring fact remained: The Grey Rider, Summer Isle's guardian, had been captured. One party member, Corbin Merser, a true believer, was brought under scrutiny for his involvement and belief in the extremist cult, The Brotherhood, and placed under arrest and jailed. His fate is not yet determined.  
  
Through the brave acts of heroes and the troops of Andus, the mixed army of raiders, slavers, and crystal abominations were thrown back after two separate and intense fights on the bridges to the west. Qheela lead the defense and rallied the heroes and soldiers onward into the desert to root out nests of crystalline horrors. While this band fought bravely, it was tracked by Abraxes, circling in the sky. The paladin Lara Ox was seen to accept custody of the crystal shards found at three separate camps, and secreted them away.
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The remaining heroes set off to every corner of Cuiviénen to bring news of Summer Isle. As for the people of Summer Isle, their true memories return to them... with, perhaps, a newer set of problems altogether.</i>
  
As the last camp fell, the dragon Abraxes encircled the heroes and prepared to wipe them out in retaliation. But before this could be completed, a vision of gods appeared in the desert! A man wearing read, wreathed in power, and a woman perfect purity stood on top of a mountain beside the city of al-Shadiya. They were seen to raise their hands and conjure a great sandstorm that drove off Abraxes and saved the heroes. This is the first great display of power by the Gods of Cuiviénen, will more follow?
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===Friday, Nov 20,2020===
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<i>Late in the afternoon, word was received from scouts that they had finally located the fugitive known as Ariana, the child-eater, and by the early evening, a woman in red stood upon the platform of the town square and bellowed the news. The busy din of the square hushed for a moment as the woman spoke further, calling for the seekers of justice and what is right to join her in bringing the fugitive back. Though not many volunteered, likely out of fear of the tainted magic possesses by the fey, those that rallied with the woman set off quickly towards the cave to Underhill.
  
===Concerning the child in Cuige Uster===
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The trek was long and winding, with numerous stops to search the area and check their bearings. Finally, they reached their destination: a cave with dark, decorated arches. The team entered carefully but to their surprise were met immediately with hostile dark fey! The battle ensued and the group pressed on, searching for their quarry. Each corridor held a new skirmish, and cries of the dark fey echoed down the halls and alerting others to arms.  
''Last night our heroes found the body of a young girl who had been missing from the Cuige Ulster district in Evervale. Like the girl from Emlyn, this girl was found just inside the entrance to Underhill, in a shallow pool in the forward cave. The leadership of the borough took possession of the body, performed an autopsy and arranged a closed casket pyre on the folkmoot attended by all of the locals.  Suspicion still follows the traveler Aianna as it is rumored she "found" the body.  Autopsy results are expected to be given to both the Grey Rider and Queen Maeve of Emlyn later today.
 
  
===Warding the Great Hall of Karrendal===
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Before long, shadows bounced from the walls and a child-like giggle could be heard amidst the clangs of metal and shouts, leading the party deeper and deeper and facing stronger foes. The woman in red leading the party fell before they could reach their quarry, a blast of dark magic taking her life. It was soon after this that the Queen of the Winter Court emerged.
  
''Brea is said to have slept the entire afternoon, awakening only when the sounds of the city's children returning in droves to the long hall. She called for a young Svartalmane who has been in her company non stop since his arrival a week ago, lovers? friends? she has not seen fit to explain his situation to anyone. She is dressed in only the thinnest of robes as the hall is warm in the summer with hundreds of children, guards, and parents inside. She walks the outer edges of the hall from the lowest level to the highest peak. She moves slowly, praying and chanting.  Whatever it is she is singing is familiar to all of those in the hall, for every child raises their voice along with her, the words sound Alvdalen. The Svartalmane walks by her side, holding her upright as she touches more than 80 bindrunes carved on the posts and beams of the hall.  When she is done, nearly retching in exhaustion and her companion looking little better off, the doors of the hall are closed and barred.
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With a demanding tone, she questioned the group and their reason to invade her home and attack her people. Corbin stepped forward to answer the queen, stating they came to retrieve the child-eater. When told they would not, he stressed that the Good Brother's reach was far and that it included all of Underhill. The enigmatic queen merely laughed and made it clear that Ariana was protected by the court and that no one else had dominion over her land.  
  
===Varðmaðr===
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The heroes left empty-handed, leaving the people of Evervale, once again, at the mercy of Ariana the Child-Eater. </i>
  
Candlelight flickers in the upper floor of Andalstad's smithy, as a lone figure sits upon a balcony overlooking the street to the the great Long House. There is much speculation as to why Jarl Dokharr is here. Does he sit in vigil for the return of his Queen? Or does he watch over Brea's seat of power, defending it in her absence? What is known, he rarely leaves only on short trips to collect supplies, or to walk the perimeter of the great house.
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===Tuesday, Nov 17,2020===
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<i>At the Red Festival, only one voice spoke out against a deafening wall of compliance: that of the well-known bard and clown, Myrddin Emyrs.  Ever quick to silence those who would defy their cause, the Brotherhood had quickly arrested him and taken him into custody.  
  
===An Interrogation Gone Wrong===
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He was brought to trial and charged with the crimes of sedition, harboring criminals, and speaking falsehoods about the King. Amidst the poorly-timed jokes, attempts to juggle and sarcastic jabs the defendant made at the prosecution, Myrddin managed to claim, as his defense, ignorance of the laws of the land. When countered that ignorance was no defense, the clown managed to find snippets of clarity and spoke of Justice, of defending those without voice, and of failing in his effort to rouse the crowd to his side.
  
Following the successful defense of Emlyn, Maeve and Lara agree to the reanimation of the witch of Abraxes in order to interrogate her. To power the ritual, Jadan of Brekka and Aianna Mhuir were tasked with a delicate job to help empower the ritual. Jadan is rumored to have approached it with some hesitancy while Aianna accomplished with gusto.  
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However, this was not enough to sway the perceptions of the prosecution. When Queen Caitria asked those of the public that gathered if any would speak for the man on trial, only one stood; the sheep known as Noemi. She claimed that confusion was likely the cause of the clown's poor judgements and that he had meant no harm. Myrddin quickly reassured her, and the court, that confusion was not the case.  
  
However, unknown to our heroes, the crystals recovered from Raeyithia and housed beneath Emlyn in the catacombs, were close by and the ward around them failing. As the magic of the ritual commenced and the interrogation proceeded, it was clear that both the witch and a darker voice spoke through the same person, responding concurrently. Little information was gleaned save that the crystals were precious to Abraxes for reasons the witched guessed as a "Fear of forgetting himself."
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Myrddin Emyrs was found guilty on all three counts charged and released into the custody of the Brotherhood. A red robed Brother escorted him quickly from the court, leaving the attendees solemn and quiet.</i>
  
Soon after this information was gleamed, the ritual took a dark turn. Just as the ritual was completed, the power of the magics caused the warding of the crystals to fail, and they bobbed up to the surface of a pool where they had been stored, close to where the ritual took place. These crystals dissolved and disappeared, perhaps spent to fuel what came next. The witch in the center of the ritual blew up in a fiery display of hostile magic, severely injuring Brea and Maeve in the process. The witch was burned to a crisp and the ritual ended.
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===Sunday, Nov 15, 2020===
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<i>*The population of Evervale seem to move in a wave of propoganda -- Traveler's have forgotten their time on Sanctuary prior to their arrival -- and Native memories also seem to have revert nearly 200 years to a time when the Thorn King was the religion of Cuivenen from Raeyithia and north. Only Andus has keep their memories of Acrab, but all other gods are lost to memory.
  
===Abraxes Attacks Emlyn===
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The lingering effects of the tranquility spell are beginning to fade, heads are clearing, but memories are gone.  New travelers, which nearly all are again at this point, realize they have landed in a world where humans and the Thorn King are the dominant power --  magic is only allowed by the priests and non-humans are second class citizens who need to be very very careful
  
What began as a mysterious storm that settled over the city quickly grew into a fight for survival for the defenders of Caerleon. The Regent, Maeve, marshaled the defense and repealed three separate attacks that originated from the sky. First, the west of the city was hit by a large ball of fire and invading enemies, then the southeast of the city. Fires were contained before any permanent damage was done. After these attempts, a powerful force of attempted to march down the center of the city and take down the defenders and the castle, but were repealed when Maeve ordered a counter attack by the knights of Emlyn.
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It is not surprising to find posts near the entrance to Underhill which include bounties on the heads of muiri and hoggur.</i>
  
Soon after the bonfire summoned the players to itself and warned of an intruder below the city. After scrying and other methods to locate what turned out to be a witch of Abraxes, the defenders quickly captured her. The catacombs were warded to defend against such intrusion and the witch was seen to be confused and lost below the city. After a successful suicide attempted, Lara OX was seen to bind the spirit to the body and a group of mages brought in to sustain the binding until a later time. 
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(This is the big event that starts our Winter Story Arc ... The people of Summer Isle seem to have lost all that they have gained in the last 70 years ... religious freedom is threatened and a human-first doctrine has been once again adopted. What will you do? Are you Muiri -- will you glamour and hide? Are you hoggur -- will you retreat to Underhill? Are you Aelfeyn -- will you try and pass as human? Or will a revolution build in secret - who can you trust?)
  
===Brighwell and Essendal ===
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<I>As dawn broke, waves of excitement radiated from the many residents of Evervale: the day of the Red Festival had arrived! Throughout the village, people hurried about, making last minute preparations and ensuring that all was in proper orderThe festive atmosphere only grew as the day progressed, with food aplenty and robes of rich crimson handed out to the townsfolk.
[[image:raid1.png|200px|right]]
 
Rumors of a raid on a minor noble family has been reported.  The manor house is on the borders between Essendell and Brighwell. The raiders were said to have moved in quickly, giving the family little warning. The lord attempted to flee at the last moment, but the raiders were able to overtake them, and both the family, its retainers and their gold was capturedNo one knows the fate of the family, and the raiders were seen heading off to the west.  Is the family with them? Sent to the slave markets? Dishonored and killed on route?  (Estate owners may contact Ovadya/Ethan in discord if you want to respond to this action.)
 
  
==Week Three (RPCSS Turn 7)==
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By midafternoon, the festivities reached a crescendo at the arena, where Brother Thomas addressed those gathered.  He gave thanks to the Good Brother, the one true god who looked over all who dwelled upon the island, and offered a prayer for his protection.  But the festivities took a dark turn as a pixie was led from the nearby guardhouse in chains.  Her crime, Brother Thomas explained to the onlookers, was the brutal and unprovoked attack against members of the brotherhood.  While most largely accepted the explanation, one voice rang out in defiance of the order, that of the clown Myrddin, who stood between Brother Thomas and the captive.  While he protested loudly, and repeatedly, the crowd remained unmoved, and red-robed guards stepped forward to bind him in chains, removing him from the archery pitch.  Without further delay, Brother Thomas released the arrow from his bow, striking down the bound pixie for her crimes, but this was only the beginning.
===From Brea ===
 
;A politely worded notice will be delivered by messenger to each Estate Owner.  
 
  
<i>Dear Sir/Madam
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A second captive was also brought forward, a centaur, bound similarly and charged with the worship of false gods.  Clearly eager to avoid further protests from Myrddin, Brother Thomas felled the creature with a single arrow between the eyes.  But he saved perhaps the worst transgressor for last, for no sooner had the centaur been slain than a third individual was brought forth: the child-eater Ariana, who had plagued Evervale for months.  Though clearly troubled by her own childlike appearance, the crowd agreed that the law must be upheld, and Queen Caitria sentenced the creature to death.
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As Brother Thomas loosed his third arrow, something unexpected occurred, and before the arrow could hit its mark, the child-eater vanished, leaving behind a pile of sticks in her place.  The Brotherhood scattered throughout the city, searching for the fugitive, while Myrrdin was taken away to await trial.
  
We have, hopefully, reached a general accord as to what the reach of one lord's area of rightful law and obligation is -- those hexacres directly under their controlWe have acknowledged any lord's right to enter into treaty with another to modify or expand upon that simple premise. We have agreed that it is a lord's right to determine and enforce the laws in their own lands. In short, we have made a great deal of progress. I applaud each of you for your part in these discussions.
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Later that eve, a murderous swarm of pixies descended upon the city to enact vengeance against their fallen sister, but they were hastily subdued by the faithfulLet this be a lesson to all who would foresake the true word of the Good Brother! Treachery shall be met swiftly, and retribution shall be absolute! For the Brotherhood!</i>
  
There will be, I am sure, many more points that will come under consideration, but one I think must be addressed sooner rather than later. What if someone commits a crime within your borders but then flees to another's lands? What then is to be done or what if anything can we expect?  We each come from a wide variety of worlds and a plethora of legal systemsEnclosed, you will find an introduction to one solution, the concept of wergeld.  It is a simple concept and it is my hopes that it will serve as a possible solution -- easy to implement and with reduced need for courts and arbitrators.
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===Friday, Nov 13, 2020===
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''Our heroes trapped on Summer Isle have been dazed and confused by what likely amounts to a very powerful spell cast by a full circle of practitioners - at the very least. At the minute after midnight this morning -- insult would be added to injury and a powerful mind wipe would descend upon the populousYet mind wipes are tricky spells, for the natural mind is complex -- this spell has been carefully crafted ....
  
I look forward to discussing this, or other proposals, at our regular gathering, mid-week.
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(The spell will effect the last 200 years of memories of this world - but no other.  Travelers will loose all memories back to the time of their arrival on this world.  They will keep all prior memories, as well as any muscle memories or deep emotional memories and connects.  So while you may not remember your new friends you've made since arriving you will feel the emotions of that friendship.  
  
Yours in service,<br>
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For natives, especially old ones, the spell is trickier -- all natives should report to Lara for personal instructions.
Brea Wynne Wistari<br>
 
Queen of Midvegr</i>
 
  
===On the transitions in Emlyn===
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If you are unwilling to play with memory loss and have a valid reason why it would not affect your character, please DM Lara.)
  
Three times in fewer months, the leadership of Emlyn has been thrown to a new regent, the stalwart Maeve Ennis, tender of the Hearth Home. Rumors abound of the unstable nature of the former Regent, Aradel Loren, who stepped down mysteriously after appearing in poor health. The knights and councilors, as well as the active estate holders, hold Maeve in high regard and look to support her in the face off with Emlyn's enemies. Soon after Aradel stepped down, Maeve granted Carigsay to him as custodian, though few have seen him outside the estate's bounds.
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===Thursday, Nov 12, 2020===
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<i>For those on the main land with missing friends, the story continues ... or rather no story continues.  There is no information and no one has returned.  Many attempts have been made to get onto the island and return information or contact those already believed to be there. The only item of note is that the mines of Andus have been collapsed, and no one has yet opened them up. Those of Andus are waiting to hear from Mithrandes on the topic.</i>
  
===Tarafeyn Erects a Grove around Princess Leilani===
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<i>For those on Summer Island, everything seems peaceful and they are anticipating a festival on Sunday.</i> See the update for Wednesday evening below.
  
Stones were being blessed and consecrated in the name of Druantia and Herne, building pillars representing the eight holy days in the year. Lilitu was seen praying, warding each pillar in clockwise fashion around the grove protecting her daughter Leilani. With the presence of the mystical stones in place, Princess Leilani had shown a swift growth spurt within the last week and almost over night as candles were brought by villagers to honor the young dryad princess.
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(OOC Info: The "effect" begins nearly immediately when someone sets foot upon Summer Isle. There are one or two pockets where the effect is slower -- contact Lara for details if you are attempting something. By 5 mins the effect is strong, by 30 mins the effect is nearly complete. Characters will feel lethargic, disoriented, generally unconcerned about issues, and open to suggestion -- otherwise they busy themselves working or watching the clouds go by.)
  
Gossip is spreading with mirth as many who have come to bring gifts say they have heard gentle cooing and sometimes crying of an infant on the rustling leaves around the young tree.
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===Wednesday, Nov 11, 2020===
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<i>Those in Evervale pass the word that there is to be news of a Festival for Sunday announced this evening.  The Red Festival has been greatly anticipated by those who are busily working in and around Evervale.  More and more men and women in red have been seen -- it must be the new fashion! The crowds begin to gather early to socialize -- most not having much else to do.</i>
  
==Week Two (RPCSS Turn 6)==
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(Status so far: If your character has gone to Evervale at any point since Monday -- they have forgotten their reason to leave and should still be on Evervale.  This effect takes place quickly. The effect is similar to a mind-altering tranquilizer where people are open to exceptions and recent memories seems fuzzy. You are not obligated to have your character  "go along" with the crowd, BUT, you should be prepared for the consequences.  If you have questions, DM Lara. Additional roleplay updates from our players can be found in the #looking-for-role-play channel of our discord server.)
===Turmoil in Andus===
 
''There appear to be two versions of this news spreading. The first is: ''
 
  
Decades, no, centuries, of oppression in Andus have been brought to an end! A coordinated uprising, spearheaded by slave-gladiators and a band of escaped slaves, swept through Al Shadiya this week. The heroes fought their way through the city, freeing slaves and bonded servants as they went. Slave masters and traders were executed for their crimes against the people, and any buildings that supported their hateful practices were destroyed. The Liberators were aided by warriors and benefactors from several other kingdoms, who will be honored by having their names etched on a stone displayed proudly above the throne of Andus. The uprising's leader, Tyrseus, has been ordained as Vizier of Andus with the approval of the people. May he rule with a fairer and more compassionate hand than the former "masters" of the city.  
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<I>As evening fell last night, the townspeople of Evervale gathered at the town square, with palpable excitement in the air. At the appointed hour, a pair of red-robed individuals stepped upon the central dais, catching the attention of all gathered.
  
''The second version is:''
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They spoke of the famine that had swept the land, as well as the plague, drawing sympathetic murmurs from the crowd.  But the broad smiles returned as their speech turned to giving thanks to He who had led them safely through such hardships.  In order to give proper thanks, a festival was to be held in the coming days - a Red Festival, to celebrate and give sacrifice.
  
The feelings of uneasiness and unrest in Al Shadiya finally exploded into violence this week. "Discontented" slaves, probably spurred on by Al Shadiya's enemies, rose up in a bloody attack against the city's upstanding citizens. Innocent people all over the city were brutally murdered, and this beautiful jewel of a city was left bloodstained, ransacked, and burned. The mob's leader, a great brute of a minotaur, took the golden throne by force and now styles himself "Vizier". Those of us who escaped the city fear to return while the Usurper continues to terrorize our once-beautiful home.
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Hands shot up and calls rang out as the people gathered quickly volunteered for the many tasks ahead, and the robed figures concluded the gathering with a prayer before the crowds dispersed, eager to make ready for the promised Festival.</i>
  
===Princess of Tarafeyn, Leilani! "Welcome to the World!" ===
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===Tuesday, Nov 10, 2020===
A great hunt left Tarafeyn in bulk of venison and rabbit meat. Offering opportunity to host a giant feast inviting other kingdoms to join in the feast. Aianna the Brave helped usher in the peasants to the food line behind the stew bubbling with potatoes and sweet carrots feeding the hungry.  
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<i>As "no news" progresses into the second day, people at home become more worried.  Search parties, primarily comprised of those who can magically travel, are sent to Evervale to search for the lost town folk and known heroes. When these scouts fail to return at all, the news is pushed up to the lords and rulers.  A call goes out for a gathering of land based lords at the Fair Ground this evening.</i>
  
Cora Silverleaf entertained the villagers as they all broke bread, celebrating the season of the honey bee. She was seen doing acrobatic flips in the air flipping and twirling with ribbons about her, even gifting some of the colorful ribbons to patrons for good luck!
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(If you have gone Summer Isle/Evervale -- you will not be returning.  A sense of over riding introspection and lazy regard infuse you. If this is your second day, you are no longer wondering what you forgot to do, but rather are becoming interested in the upcoming festival for Sunday everyone is speaking about.)
  
Amidst the feast, the Guardian had reported having contractions through out the morning, she actually gave birth with the aid of the midwife Aianna, and the encouragement of Cora, both making sure she was safe with the holy men and woman around the consecrated grounds before running off to share the details with those left at the feast.
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<i>Late night urgency will spread in the cities of Caerleon and Andalstad as neither queen returned from the meetings at the fair grounds.  Some report that they saw the Emlyn queen with two guards -- but no one can confirm that. Another dock hand reported seeing Queen Brea near the rune library in Andalstad.  By the wee hours, the estates of Novochebay and Carigsay send word that their lords have not returned either.</i>
  
Good News travels fast, as all come to see the new sapling being guarded at the hallowed grounds near the temple in Tarafeyn. It is said the Guardian has not left the saplings side as she wait's for her daughter the princess Leilani to emerge from her anchor in this world.
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===Monday, Nov 9, 2020===
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<i>The travel time from Summer Isle to Cuiveinen can be made relatively quickly, especially if one has access to magical travel. Concern has swept throughout most of the larger cities and towns, as friends and family have not returned home to the mainland.  Its only a few people talking in the street as the late fall sun dips below the horizon, but as full dark approaches -- true worry is discussed in local watering holes. No one has returned from Summer Isle -- ALL day.</i>
  
==Week One (RPCSS Turn 5)==
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(Any who travel to Summer Isle forget why they needed to return to the main land of Cuiveinen -- all sense of urgency to leave the island quickly diminishesHunting trips to Underhill seem reasonable, but no player should "return" to the main land ICly once they've gone to Summer Isle. Expect new updates every day)
===A Question of Law===
 
At the fairgrounds there gathered a number of landed Lords and four of the five kingdom rulers to discuss just how far one's rule and law extended. The debate hinged between only as far as ones occupied hexacres or until its border met another'sThere was no agreement reached but the topics ranged; who has jurisdiction if a crime is committed? Who is responsible if visitors are harmed within one's borders? Who has a claim on unoccupied estates? Some claim that might makes right and only the fittest survive. Others that we have a responsibility to all the people and lawlessness benefits no one.
 
  
As then gathering ended, a compromise was proposed for discussion and consideration.  It is rumored that another discussion will be hosted this evening.
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===OOC Intro to Story Arc===
 +
<b>We are in the process of developing a Winter Story Arc! </b>
  
===Celebration at the Tarafeyn Vineyard===
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It will involve a whirlwind of fun plot developments that will allow everyone a chance to explore new aspects of their characters; time travel, mind wipes, evil magicians, oh my!  The plot line will need nearly everyone to agree to play an Andal character, or by as of yet undefined means convert to the worship of the Thorn King.  We are taking a page from the recent TV shows; Carnival Row & Cursed for our ideas.
  
This Saturday was enjoyed at the Vineyard giving dessert samples out to the villagers and party goers coming to try the new sweet wines and dessert meads. It was a quiet affair and the Guardian spent time with the Hearth Mother of Emlyn enjoying a calm evening.
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#Introduction posts will begin right away.
 +
# A newsletter regarding the Winter Story Arc goes out on Friday.
 +
#All players of NATIVE characters MUST DM me to get special information.
 +
#All players are STRONGLY requested to reach out and sign up to play on the Andal side of the storyline. You are welcome to DM me and pick my brain.
  
 +
;Read More
 +
* [[Andal]]
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* [[:Talk:Andal|Playing an Andal]]
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* [[Thorn King Era]]
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 +
I've got a seer team ready to go!  I need players willing to commit and play.  Our plans are to have seer support during a US afternoon noonish, US Evening 8 pm-ish, and US Weekend 2pm ish.  REACH out by DMing @Lara now!!
 
=Archives=
 
=Archives=
* [[:Talk:News and Rumors|Recent News and Rumor Archive]]
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* [[Archive: News and Rumor 2020]]
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* [[Archive: News and Rumor 2019]]

Latest revision as of 14:46, 28 August 2022

News and Rumors are posted on a weekly basis by Alliance and Estate Leaders on the wiki. Other rumors generated from actions done in RPCSS is added to the in-game town crier and sent via the in-game postal system. Upcoming events can be found on the Message of the Day (.motd) in game. Further there is a #looking-for-role-play channel in our Discord Server. We encourage you to use the information provide in your role-play as this information is readily accessible to any one.

August 2022

Sunday, Aug 28, 2022

With the threat of war gone for now, life has become calm and mundane. Fields are tended, families grow and expand, and life goes on largely unbothered. But, whispers ripple through the marketplace occasionally of mysterious shadows creeping across the continent. Though no alarm has been raised by the majority, the elder natives of Cuiviénen seem to speak in hushed tones of a shift in the breezes. For now, the harvest season approaches and many make preparations for the first reaping.


January 2022

Raeyithia

A celebration was held in the Tarasinau hearth home to celebrate the coming year, and the hopes that come with it. At the conclusion of the festivities, to symbolize the new changes, Lady Rendethryn Stormsong was crowned Queen of Raeyithia.


September 2021

Raeyithia

Word comes from the capital city of Tarasinau that Lady Rendethryn Stormsong of Carigsay arrived with assistance for the city in their time of need. With the food, supplies and labor provided, Tarasinau, and the kingdom of Raeyithia as a whole, is being revitalized to its former splendor. There are further rumors that Lady Rendethryn may stay permanently in the city, but this has not been verified.

August 2021

Week Four

Emlyn

Upon the walls of Caerleon flies the banner of Emlyn's new royal couple, King Eli and Queen Melinda Dahmut. The last few months have kept the royal couple busy following a rocky start to their reign. Despite this, the monarchs have kept busy tending to their people and their duties to the kingdom and its safety. Most recently, the border estates that had been lost in the war with The Great Northern Army have been reclaimed and stabilized. The victory has seen a wave of relief over the citizens of Caerleon and has proven to be catalyst in the kingdom's recent bloom.

Week Three

Kraestret

Long-time resident and businesswoman Sahja Khouri was named Mayor of Drokkburg last week in a surprising announcement. Claims of leadership across the kingdoms are neither uncommon or unexpected, however this is likely the first declaration as mayor of a capital city. And while having no authority to dispatch armies in case of attack, Miss Khouri is dedicated to the safety of the city as much as her capacity allows. "Drokkburg was the first place I felt truly home in - her people helped me feel part of their fold. I love this city and this kingdom. I felt it was time for me to give back and help," the mayor said. However, one can only wonder what has become of the king.

When questioned about King Julian's thoughts on the matter of the new appointment, Miss Khouri stated she had his full backing. Attempts were to reach out to King Julian for comment were unsuccessful. Curious eyes are now watching the new mayor and waiting to see what comes of her efforts in the coming months.

May 2021

Week One

Caerleon

Rumors of a new young couple has entered the Kingdom of Emlyn, arriving at Port Leon. Upon their arrival guards were no where to be found and a orc camp had an adventurer hostage inside the city gates. Together, the adventurer was freed and the guards were sought out and new agreements were reached to provide protection to the city with all accounts in arrears were settled. Additionally, there are more rumors that someone has begun to attune to the hearth stone and working to regain proper balance so the kingdom would thrive once more. Supposedly these new people of some noble background have been accepted and now they are looking to fill several estate and household roles.

November

In the month of November and December we ran a winter quest. The news and rumors of the quest are recorded here.

Thursday, Dec 10, 2020

Now that the spell has been lifted our heroes begin to return to their homes on the Mainland. The Red Robes have fled, and few can be seen any more in Evervale. Fights have broken out all over as any number of people enact revenge on any red robes they can find. There are plans for the estate owners to call a gathering on Monday Night to discuss the state of the world and what needs to be done. Some ask, was this the doing of Abraxes? Or just a very complex plot managed by a few fanatics. Yet the Grey Rider and Brother Thomas have not yet been found -- our heroes await any news that will give them hope to bring this red robe to justice and hopefully find the Grey Rider alive.

Tuesday, Dec 8, 2020

Rumors that the child-eater had escaped Underhill and had taken refuge in the Dark Forest of Summer Isle quickly spread through the people of Evervale. Before long, a group of brave men and women set out to apprehend the fugitive once and for all. The Dark Forest is no safe place and the group was beset by goblins and other denizens of the region, however, the drive and determination of the group never waned.

No trail of the wicked fey was given, only the region, and the group trekked deeper into the woods until they reached The Dark Tower. Expecting to find clues or remnants of the child-eater's presence, they encountered a far more sobering sight: a mage circle carefully crafted upon the floor of the tower and a dozen red robed figures focused and chanting around it.

At first, shock and fear gripped the heroes, for magic is punishable by death, though both of these emotions made way for quick anger. Seizing two of the mages, the heroes managed to interrupt the mages just before the spell was cast and in that moment, the rest of the red robed mages magically transported themselves away. Demanding answers to panicked questions, the mages that remained revealed the illusion spell created by none other than Brother Thomas to make the entirety of Summer Isle believe The Brotherhood was in control. The mages themselves were held by threats to perform the spell each night to keep the isle complacent. Now that the spell was broken and the circle destroyed by the heroes, the men and women of Summer Isle would soon regain all their memories.

Even as the heroes regained their memories in anguish, recalling those missing and the crimes committed by others, one glaring fact remained: The Grey Rider, Summer Isle's guardian, had been captured. One party member, Corbin Merser, a true believer, was brought under scrutiny for his involvement and belief in the extremist cult, The Brotherhood, and placed under arrest and jailed. His fate is not yet determined.

The remaining heroes set off to every corner of Cuiviénen to bring news of Summer Isle. As for the people of Summer Isle, their true memories return to them... with, perhaps, a newer set of problems altogether.

Friday, Nov 20,2020

Late in the afternoon, word was received from scouts that they had finally located the fugitive known as Ariana, the child-eater, and by the early evening, a woman in red stood upon the platform of the town square and bellowed the news. The busy din of the square hushed for a moment as the woman spoke further, calling for the seekers of justice and what is right to join her in bringing the fugitive back. Though not many volunteered, likely out of fear of the tainted magic possesses by the fey, those that rallied with the woman set off quickly towards the cave to Underhill.

The trek was long and winding, with numerous stops to search the area and check their bearings. Finally, they reached their destination: a cave with dark, decorated arches. The team entered carefully but to their surprise were met immediately with hostile dark fey! The battle ensued and the group pressed on, searching for their quarry. Each corridor held a new skirmish, and cries of the dark fey echoed down the halls and alerting others to arms.

Before long, shadows bounced from the walls and a child-like giggle could be heard amidst the clangs of metal and shouts, leading the party deeper and deeper and facing stronger foes. The woman in red leading the party fell before they could reach their quarry, a blast of dark magic taking her life. It was soon after this that the Queen of the Winter Court emerged.

With a demanding tone, she questioned the group and their reason to invade her home and attack her people. Corbin stepped forward to answer the queen, stating they came to retrieve the child-eater. When told they would not, he stressed that the Good Brother's reach was far and that it included all of Underhill. The enigmatic queen merely laughed and made it clear that Ariana was protected by the court and that no one else had dominion over her land.

The heroes left empty-handed, leaving the people of Evervale, once again, at the mercy of Ariana the Child-Eater.

Tuesday, Nov 17,2020

At the Red Festival, only one voice spoke out against a deafening wall of compliance: that of the well-known bard and clown, Myrddin Emyrs. Ever quick to silence those who would defy their cause, the Brotherhood had quickly arrested him and taken him into custody.

He was brought to trial and charged with the crimes of sedition, harboring criminals, and speaking falsehoods about the King. Amidst the poorly-timed jokes, attempts to juggle and sarcastic jabs the defendant made at the prosecution, Myrddin managed to claim, as his defense, ignorance of the laws of the land. When countered that ignorance was no defense, the clown managed to find snippets of clarity and spoke of Justice, of defending those without voice, and of failing in his effort to rouse the crowd to his side.

However, this was not enough to sway the perceptions of the prosecution. When Queen Caitria asked those of the public that gathered if any would speak for the man on trial, only one stood; the sheep known as Noemi. She claimed that confusion was likely the cause of the clown's poor judgements and that he had meant no harm. Myrddin quickly reassured her, and the court, that confusion was not the case.

Myrddin Emyrs was found guilty on all three counts charged and released into the custody of the Brotherhood. A red robed Brother escorted him quickly from the court, leaving the attendees solemn and quiet.

Sunday, Nov 15, 2020

*The population of Evervale seem to move in a wave of propoganda -- Traveler's have forgotten their time on Sanctuary prior to their arrival -- and Native memories also seem to have revert nearly 200 years to a time when the Thorn King was the religion of Cuivenen from Raeyithia and north. Only Andus has keep their memories of Acrab, but all other gods are lost to memory.

The lingering effects of the tranquility spell are beginning to fade, heads are clearing, but memories are gone. New travelers, which nearly all are again at this point, realize they have landed in a world where humans and the Thorn King are the dominant power -- magic is only allowed by the priests and non-humans are second class citizens who need to be very very careful

It is not surprising to find posts near the entrance to Underhill which include bounties on the heads of muiri and hoggur.

(This is the big event that starts our Winter Story Arc ... The people of Summer Isle seem to have lost all that they have gained in the last 70 years ... religious freedom is threatened and a human-first doctrine has been once again adopted. What will you do? Are you Muiri -- will you glamour and hide? Are you hoggur -- will you retreat to Underhill? Are you Aelfeyn -- will you try and pass as human? Or will a revolution build in secret - who can you trust?)

As dawn broke, waves of excitement radiated from the many residents of Evervale: the day of the Red Festival had arrived! Throughout the village, people hurried about, making last minute preparations and ensuring that all was in proper order. The festive atmosphere only grew as the day progressed, with food aplenty and robes of rich crimson handed out to the townsfolk.

By midafternoon, the festivities reached a crescendo at the arena, where Brother Thomas addressed those gathered. He gave thanks to the Good Brother, the one true god who looked over all who dwelled upon the island, and offered a prayer for his protection. But the festivities took a dark turn as a pixie was led from the nearby guardhouse in chains. Her crime, Brother Thomas explained to the onlookers, was the brutal and unprovoked attack against members of the brotherhood. While most largely accepted the explanation, one voice rang out in defiance of the order, that of the clown Myrddin, who stood between Brother Thomas and the captive. While he protested loudly, and repeatedly, the crowd remained unmoved, and red-robed guards stepped forward to bind him in chains, removing him from the archery pitch. Without further delay, Brother Thomas released the arrow from his bow, striking down the bound pixie for her crimes, but this was only the beginning.

A second captive was also brought forward, a centaur, bound similarly and charged with the worship of false gods. Clearly eager to avoid further protests from Myrddin, Brother Thomas felled the creature with a single arrow between the eyes. But he saved perhaps the worst transgressor for last, for no sooner had the centaur been slain than a third individual was brought forth: the child-eater Ariana, who had plagued Evervale for months. Though clearly troubled by her own childlike appearance, the crowd agreed that the law must be upheld, and Queen Caitria sentenced the creature to death. As Brother Thomas loosed his third arrow, something unexpected occurred, and before the arrow could hit its mark, the child-eater vanished, leaving behind a pile of sticks in her place. The Brotherhood scattered throughout the city, searching for the fugitive, while Myrrdin was taken away to await trial.

Later that eve, a murderous swarm of pixies descended upon the city to enact vengeance against their fallen sister, but they were hastily subdued by the faithful. Let this be a lesson to all who would foresake the true word of the Good Brother! Treachery shall be met swiftly, and retribution shall be absolute! For the Brotherhood!

Friday, Nov 13, 2020

Our heroes trapped on Summer Isle have been dazed and confused by what likely amounts to a very powerful spell cast by a full circle of practitioners - at the very least. At the minute after midnight this morning -- insult would be added to injury and a powerful mind wipe would descend upon the populous. Yet mind wipes are tricky spells, for the natural mind is complex -- this spell has been carefully crafted ....

(The spell will effect the last 200 years of memories of this world - but no other. Travelers will loose all memories back to the time of their arrival on this world. They will keep all prior memories, as well as any muscle memories or deep emotional memories and connects. So while you may not remember your new friends you've made since arriving you will feel the emotions of that friendship.

For natives, especially old ones, the spell is trickier -- all natives should report to Lara for personal instructions.

If you are unwilling to play with memory loss and have a valid reason why it would not affect your character, please DM Lara.)

Thursday, Nov 12, 2020

For those on the main land with missing friends, the story continues ... or rather no story continues. There is no information and no one has returned. Many attempts have been made to get onto the island and return information or contact those already believed to be there. The only item of note is that the mines of Andus have been collapsed, and no one has yet opened them up. Those of Andus are waiting to hear from Mithrandes on the topic.

For those on Summer Island, everything seems peaceful and they are anticipating a festival on Sunday. See the update for Wednesday evening below.

(OOC Info: The "effect" begins nearly immediately when someone sets foot upon Summer Isle. There are one or two pockets where the effect is slower -- contact Lara for details if you are attempting something. By 5 mins the effect is strong, by 30 mins the effect is nearly complete. Characters will feel lethargic, disoriented, generally unconcerned about issues, and open to suggestion -- otherwise they busy themselves working or watching the clouds go by.)

Wednesday, Nov 11, 2020

Those in Evervale pass the word that there is to be news of a Festival for Sunday announced this evening. The Red Festival has been greatly anticipated by those who are busily working in and around Evervale. More and more men and women in red have been seen -- it must be the new fashion! The crowds begin to gather early to socialize -- most not having much else to do.

(Status so far: If your character has gone to Evervale at any point since Monday -- they have forgotten their reason to leave and should still be on Evervale. This effect takes place quickly. The effect is similar to a mind-altering tranquilizer where people are open to exceptions and recent memories seems fuzzy. You are not obligated to have your character "go along" with the crowd, BUT, you should be prepared for the consequences. If you have questions, DM Lara. Additional roleplay updates from our players can be found in the #looking-for-role-play channel of our discord server.)

As evening fell last night, the townspeople of Evervale gathered at the town square, with palpable excitement in the air. At the appointed hour, a pair of red-robed individuals stepped upon the central dais, catching the attention of all gathered.

They spoke of the famine that had swept the land, as well as the plague, drawing sympathetic murmurs from the crowd. But the broad smiles returned as their speech turned to giving thanks to He who had led them safely through such hardships. In order to give proper thanks, a festival was to be held in the coming days - a Red Festival, to celebrate and give sacrifice.

Hands shot up and calls rang out as the people gathered quickly volunteered for the many tasks ahead, and the robed figures concluded the gathering with a prayer before the crowds dispersed, eager to make ready for the promised Festival.

Tuesday, Nov 10, 2020

As "no news" progresses into the second day, people at home become more worried. Search parties, primarily comprised of those who can magically travel, are sent to Evervale to search for the lost town folk and known heroes. When these scouts fail to return at all, the news is pushed up to the lords and rulers. A call goes out for a gathering of land based lords at the Fair Ground this evening.

(If you have gone Summer Isle/Evervale -- you will not be returning. A sense of over riding introspection and lazy regard infuse you. If this is your second day, you are no longer wondering what you forgot to do, but rather are becoming interested in the upcoming festival for Sunday everyone is speaking about.)

Late night urgency will spread in the cities of Caerleon and Andalstad as neither queen returned from the meetings at the fair grounds. Some report that they saw the Emlyn queen with two guards -- but no one can confirm that. Another dock hand reported seeing Queen Brea near the rune library in Andalstad. By the wee hours, the estates of Novochebay and Carigsay send word that their lords have not returned either.

Monday, Nov 9, 2020

The travel time from Summer Isle to Cuiveinen can be made relatively quickly, especially if one has access to magical travel. Concern has swept throughout most of the larger cities and towns, as friends and family have not returned home to the mainland. Its only a few people talking in the street as the late fall sun dips below the horizon, but as full dark approaches -- true worry is discussed in local watering holes. No one has returned from Summer Isle -- ALL day.

(Any who travel to Summer Isle forget why they needed to return to the main land of Cuiveinen -- all sense of urgency to leave the island quickly diminishes. Hunting trips to Underhill seem reasonable, but no player should "return" to the main land ICly once they've gone to Summer Isle. Expect new updates every day)

OOC Intro to Story Arc

We are in the process of developing a Winter Story Arc!

It will involve a whirlwind of fun plot developments that will allow everyone a chance to explore new aspects of their characters; time travel, mind wipes, evil magicians, oh my! The plot line will need nearly everyone to agree to play an Andal character, or by as of yet undefined means convert to the worship of the Thorn King. We are taking a page from the recent TV shows; Carnival Row & Cursed for our ideas.

  1. Introduction posts will begin right away.
  2. A newsletter regarding the Winter Story Arc goes out on Friday.
  3. All players of NATIVE characters MUST DM me to get special information.
  4. All players are STRONGLY requested to reach out and sign up to play on the Andal side of the storyline. You are welcome to DM me and pick my brain.
Read More

I've got a seer team ready to go! I need players willing to commit and play. Our plans are to have seer support during a US afternoon noonish, US Evening 8 pm-ish, and US Weekend 2pm ish. REACH out by DMing @Lara now!!

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