News and Rumors

News and Rumors are posted on a weekly basis by Noble House 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.

September 2019

Week 4

Mythalvian

Rumors that a new banner house is being formed under Valdrdomr on the border of Kraestret and Midrvger reach even the most distant shores. Details of the newly forming house are expected to be announced at the next Kraestret court.

Raven's Kiss

Despite wild rumors about the previous weeks' court session being an absolute "can't miss it" event, it ended up remarkably short and uneventful. The general consensus is that a mysterious something happened at the last minute. The town gossips can't help but speculate that perhaps the coming weeks' hearing will be more dramatic!

There have been whispers of folk seeing the ghost of a giantess wandering the streets, but since this has mostly come from various sailors and other ne'er-do-well's who were quite thoroughly soused at the time, no one has paid them much mind.

This week has also brought a marked uptick in the number of gypsies seen inside the town walls. The Queen has also been seen heading South out of the gates on a nearly daily basis, sometimes with other members of the Raven's Kiss, or occasionally alone.

The Wild Hunt

With the celebration of the autumn equinox, hosted by the Ceannasai of Carigsay, the Kingdom of Raeyithia has been observing a week of ritual and reflection in honor of the Meán Fómhair. It is noted that on the night of the new moon all flames are to be extinguished in the city from dusk to dawn in honor of the dark that settles over the world during the colder months.

Though the grape harvest had been lean, the locals have been pleased with a bumper harvest of heartier fare including pumpkins, parsnips, and squash. The Hunt has managed to bring in a fair amount of wild game recently as well, making certain the larders are sufficiently stocked to see the Kingdom through the winter.

Despite the festivities, the castle has been uncharacteristically solemn. A woman was seen collapsing near the gatehouse and being carried inside under the orders of the Queen herself. Though various healers and physicians come and go with regularity, the mysterious woman nor the Queen have emerged. Princess Katya has been spied coming and going but is surprisingly close lipped about the situation.

Qubilat al-Asad

Rumors are leaking out about the return on Sultan Sahure Izezi around the Jawahrat Alsahra'. Grumblings between guards and the staff fill the halls around the palace about where he has been! It is said that he was in the desert seeking advice from the gods. However, there are other rumors that he was to the north visiting local flavors ( brothels').

Order of the Black Lion

There are rumors leaking out of Caerleon recently that the Lord Reagent intends to plan and host the Kingdom's annual Grand Tournament, a celebration of Emlyn with food and drink, finished with a tournament held between combatants who fight honorably.

It is also said that the Inquisitor, along with other members of the Order, arrived in a small village near the fortress of Westleeuw. A plague had broken out in the village with at least three townsfolk falling ill and dying. The Inquisitor found a nearby cave which contained dead rats with their entrails removed, along with a book with a black cover and nothing but blank pages within. The findings were forwarded to the village Constable, who traced the items to a woman who lived in the village. It is said she was later burned at the stake.

The Order of the Silver Key

The atmosphere around the Library was subdued for a few days as screams, shrieks, and growls were heard from somewhere inside the Library earlier this week. Following that episode, the Library's infirmary was barred to all but a select few personnel. The Headmistress herself has been seen coming and going from the infirmary several times a day. None of the guards nor the Headmistress would speak on what occurred in the infirmary, though it has since been re-opened to the public.

In other news, word has gotten out that an old tome has been found that may be of interest to some people in the north...

Week 3

Order of the Silver Key

The Order has put out the word that they are still offering payment for stories and literature about the various gods of Sanctuary, or any other books that may benefit the archives.

Furniture and tapestries from all over the kingdoms has continued to arrive at the Library, and now it is whispered that, of all things, cooks from each country have been hired for the kitchens.

Rumors abound as to why the Great Library's normal guard force seems to have increased drastically, despite the Library's assurances that they welcome everyone from all kingdoms, as long as they come in peace.

Valdrdómr

Whispers run abound of tension in the North. While some would say it stems from the Novochebay region, and that certainly has been cause for concern in recent weeks, it is obvious to the trained eye that no love is lost between those of Fjarora and Andalstad. Whether that will translate to anything dire, is yet to be seen.

As it stands, the ranks of House Valdrdómr are on the rise, something that is both a cause for celebration and concern—for with greater numbers the responsibility to maintain those loyal to the house safe, inevitably becomes more challenging.

Order of the Black Lion

Little time was wasted following the sacred knighting ceremony of Mithril Moorbane and Lara Ox before a call when out calling knights of the realm back to Caerleon to form up. The group of knights was seen preparing outside the gates before riding eastward at a brisk pace. Few even within the Order seem aware of their destination or what is involved in the campaign.

Those with connections to the court in Caerleon may mention that there seems to be a strong desire from the leadership to visit the Andalstad, Novochebay, and Order of the Silver Key.

The Raven's Kiss

The city of Drokkburg - and most of Kraestret for that matter - have talked of little else than the first official full Court session after the return of the heroes and nobility from the Summer Isles. The general consensus of the populace seems to be that it was a grand success, full of nobles and emissaries alongside petitioners and onlookers, and sure to only improve the Kingdom's reputation.

Some, however, seem only able to talk about the tension and troubles from the northeast, with much speculation on the connections to other happenings, to say nothing of what it may mean for the citizenry of Kraestret.

With news of the expansive destruction of the stronghold in Molvernia after two unsuccessful attempts to oust the bandits, a week of official mourning has been issued by the Matron, even as scouts are sent out to try and locate any survivors - or information on the bandits and who might be responsible for them. Rumor has it they were clearly trained and funded by a proper organization, perhaps even another Kingdom.

Molvernia

After numerous failed attempts to route the bandits from Molvernia, scouts report that the stronghold is now completely abandoned, looted and smoldering. There is no further news as to where they may have gone. The trail heads north and then disappears in dozens of branching directions. Molvernia is in ruins, scouts have been unable to find the Earl and his retinue.

The Wild Hunt

Work continues around the Kingdom at an intense rate, as Raeyithia moves to successfully bring in this season's harvest.

The capital is becoming more populated, as High Courts have become regularly expected and attended; drawing envoys and citizens from across the neighboring Kingdoms. Nary a day passes without messengers arriving to the Raeyithian court, bearing various petitions, proposals, and requests for audience.

The Hunt carries on with tireless efforts to assist the kingdom's citizens with harvests, the mediation of political disputes, and issues regarding protection. It has also issued wide recruitment calls Sanctuary-wide, for those who wish to learn more about the House itself.

The Children of Io - Council of Asgaroth

Two dragons, one green, one golden, were seen bedding down among flowering bushes together in the west dale outside of Caerleon by natives of the city. It was reported they were gone the next morning.

Horsemen have been seen riding out of Andalstad's western gates, while more muster within the city proper.

Rumors float around of the First Speaker's interest in the Imperium. Protests have quieted down with the passing of the seemingly peaceful meeting between them and the Children of Io but unrest still lingers; many calling for the Council to clarify their stance on the northern warmongers. Some call for the First Speaker to step down, while others insist he has already done so. Some have even seen a female council member sitting quite comfortably in the First Speaker's chair.

Wardens of the Wilds

The townspeople are still abuzz with tales of the Equinox Celebration, hosted by the Wardens in the Great Henge of Emlyn. Offerings were made and merriment stretched into the night, ensuring a bountiful harvest for all present.

Rumours also abound that the soldiers, so recently called back to Carigsay, were just as quickly sent to patrol the surrounding lands, securing the kingdom against unknown threats.

The Ceannasai of the Wardens has also been seen meeting with the leadership of many other kingdoms, no doubt brokering for peace between their respective lands. But some wonder if perhaps she is biting off more than she can chew, and should perhaps keep her gaze focused more locally for the time being.

Week 2

The Wild Hunt

Raeyithia has bustled with activity this week, as the capital city prepares for the Summer's End Harvest Festival. The finest meads, wines, brandies, and hearty food items have been sent from all corners of the country, as a grand feast is planned to kick off the festival.

A grand masquerade ball, to celebrate autumnal reflections and the advent of Samhain, is also whispered about -- as jewel-toned silks, elaborate masks and costumes, and high-quality furniture items are bundled into all major cities, kept closely under wraps and protective coverings. Dozens of workers have been bustling in and out of the grand theatre in the capital's castle, carrying scenery, elaborately-painted screens, and huge amounts of material inside.

Calls have been sent out to ALL kingdoms, asking the residents to host/enter an event (via MOTD) in the Harvest festival this coming weekend (Sept. 13 -- 15, first come, first serve for event signups). Jousts, feasts, open markets, auctions, dances, crafting/combat competitions, storytelling, scavenger hunts -- be creative! The Wild Hunt will assist with food, decor, and event facilitation for all participants.

The Lady Caelestia's masquerade ensemble has been reported to be a work of art, with artisans across the country contributing to the piece; while her younger sister has reputedly been seen in the company of pirates, actors, vagabonds, and generally rogueish types (all the while enjoying herself greatly, and telling this reporter that HER masquerade ensemble was none of their beeswax).

The Sacred August Order of the Black Lion

The unease of past weeks has slowly transitioned into optimism in Caerleon. It has become well known that the Lara Ox and Mithril Moorbane have joined the Order, the latter as the new Knight Commander. While the Order has knighted many outside of the capital, it has been some time since a knighting was done in the old sanctum of the Order. Citizens within the city have grown excited to witness the event or to assist in making the required preparations. There is also rumor that the Order's High Priest may be in attendance.

Other rumors regarding the Order of late:

The Lord Reagent was seen walking alone into the Raven's Kiss embassy on Summer Isle.

Land is being sought to be granted to Morv Decanter, a well-regarded noble in Caerleon.

There are still murmurs of issues between the Order of the Black Lion and the Wardens of the Wild.

Valdrdómr

A small fleet of ships has recently docked on the shores of Fjarora, housing troops of the Valdrdómr. Among those who have arrived was the recently absentee leader of the House, Auldolfr, who found many changes had been spurred in the wake of his disappearance. One of these changes being the construction of a temple to the North of the Long Hall, in honor of a deity unknown to many of the Valdrdómr.

While the ranks of the House have been strengthened this passing week, many troops have yet to arrive. The looming threat of invasion has made all in the North, including those of the Valdrdómr more weary. It has been rumored by many that some of the most adept spies of the House have been working countless hours scouting the surrounding territories and that through these expeditions some interesting associations have been made. However, nothing concrete is known.

Order of the Silver Key

The great Library of Andus is all aflutter with many shipments in and out being ferried between the docks and Meissa. Reports say that certain valuable books are being put on ships to sail elsewhere, though their destination is unknown. In addition, a great amount of furniture is making its way up the road to the Library as well, sporting the colors and insignia of the royal houses of the five kingdoms.

The Order has put out the word that they are offering sanctuary to anyone who no longer feels safe in their home country. Anyone, regardless of race, faith, or other affiliation, is welcome to shelter within the Library's protected walls.

The exception to this is the Imperium, who is banned from all properties and holdings of the Library, including the Library proper and the Summer Isle Branch, until they cease their investigation into "faithcrime" in all kingdoms.

The Children of Io - The Council of Asgaroth

Many servants of Castle Andal report with skepticism preparations being made to host a contingent of the Imperium within their walls sometime this week. Some agitated people have been seen outside of the castle trying to stir up trouble and incite riots in protest but until this point they have been put down by castle guards.

The city itself has seen an influx of people returning to Andalstad in the wake of this new power gathering strength in the region, either seeking protection or resuming their old lives after fleeing the Dragon's coup on the native ruling house. Only a few families have been denied at the gates.

Food prices have risen significantly in the past week with the increased demand of the refugees and a clear mustering of horsemen on Castle Andal's grounds.

The Council is rumored to be having a closed session meeting this week to reorganize themselves.

Wardens of the Wilds

With the repairs to Carigsay rapidly drawing to completion, the city has been met with an influx of citizens and merchants from neighboring kingdoms, offering their loyalty in exchange for asylum from the growing shadows of the world.

The population boom has been met with excitement, but also concern, as the newly plowed fields did not yield enough for the increased population. Rumour has it that several emissaries have journeyed afar to seek assistance for the coming winter.

Speaking of journeys afar, a small contingent of Wardens rode north to assist the Black Lion in securing the northern borders, only to be ambushed by a tribe of hill trolls. While the trolls were ultimately routed, the Wardens sustained minor casualties, including - it is said - the Ceannasai herself.

Week 1

Valdrdómr

Though the waters have cleared and most have sailed safely to Cuiveinen, some have yet to arrive. Whispers have traveled across the hills that the ship Auldolfr, leader of Valdrdómr, was navigating has gone missing. Some have taken this news to mean that those of Fjarora, are easy prey. To make matters worse, further whispers of a shift within the house in terms of allegiance have been hard to suppress.

Scouting reports from the North have been troubling. Vicious, is too simple a word to describe some of the horrors a few hundred miles away from the peace that can be found on the coastal city of Fjarora. Something must be done, and if the last gathering hosted by those of "The Wolf's Judgement," is any indication—something drastic will likely soon occur.

Raven's Kiss

With all that has happened, Kraestret is abuzz with rumors and speculation. The constant throng of activity on the docks, much of it involving the movement of furniture, has many of the shop owners rubbing their hands with glee, while others have looked beyond their walls with nervousness. Children and curious onlookers dot the main thoroughfare leading to the castle regularly to gawk at all the strange and sundry folk bustling back and forth.

The talk shifted sharply, however, after first the most unusual messenger arrived at the palace, followed by a call to arms, only for the brave warriors to return exhausted and lacking a final victory against the bandits that overwhelmed Molvernia, though great inroads were made.

Still, day to day business must continue, and the Raven's Roost, the embassy of Raven's Kiss and Kraestret at large remains a hive of activity, including their usual bi-weekly open hours there.

Some few folk murmur of plans for some large gathering to happen at the castle; one or two even claim they heard the palace cook, Brunnhilde, claim she was told she would be cooking a dragon!

Molvernia

A scroll is carried by more then a dozen hands from the most northern border of Kraestrat. The seal is broken and badly damaged, but the emerald eagle of Molvernia is still somewhat visible. It is brought by a woman, exhausted, carrying a young child on her hip that finally arrives at the gates of the Drokkberg castle. With hollow eyes she hands the scroll to one of the guards before gratefully seeking food and a place to rest. There is no way to be sure how many have read the scroll or even the story of its journey, but the blood stains are clearly evident. The scroll reads ...

Your dearest majesty,

I am Darius Codreanu, Earl of Molvernia and a loyal banner house. Two days past my home was attacked by bandits while my soldiers were still at the harvest. My family and retainers were forced to flea north into the deep snows with few supplies. I, and most of my guard, have been injured in the retreat, we beg your assistance. Please send any able warrior to the stronghold, it must be reclaimed.

Darius Codreanu
Earl of Molvernia

The Order of the Silver Key

As ships sail from the Summer Isle laden with supplies, materials, and personnel, members of the Order have been seen stepping aboard a multitude of different livery clad ships looking to be geared out for extended stays.

Others are seen leaving the office on Summer Isles and as well as the borders of Andus on all directions of the compass.

All of them appear more geared for exploration and less for warfare.

Wardens of the Wilds

Tensions mount between Emlyn and their 'monstrous' allies of Carigsay, as mistrust festers between the two kingdoms.

Anonymous sources claim that the knights of the Black Lion have repeatedly labelled all non-human entities as enemies of the people, straining relationships between their closest allies, the Wardens of the Wilds. Likewise, murmurs have been heard among the Wardens' ranks that their efforts would be better suited protecting those who truly appreciate them.

While no official word has been released, it could be that war is brewing before the harvests can even be gathered between these two allied kingdoms!

The Sacred August Order of the Black Lion

After two long months of reforging relationships and creating new ones on Summer Isle, word of the Order's imminent return to the Capital have begun to spread. As autumn approaches it is hard not to get a sense of unease among those in Emlyn. To quell such feelings, the Order will be holding its weekly court to reaffirm its commitments to its allies and to coordinate and necessary actions moving forward. The Order's spiritual leader, Stefan Heloise, will also be returning after a year-long pilgrimage.

There have been few public proclamations from the Order's new stoic and tight-lipped Lord Reagent, Damian Reis, so most word regarding the Order has been from outside observers. Most recently, during an Order gathering, neighbors in Evervale overheard raised voices followed by a door slamming as a woman dressed in gold stormed out of the embassy.

The Imperium

Wide-scale celebrations have been documented in villages surrounding Novochebay within the Imperium, citing that the "Reclamation" has begun. These celebrations are rife with hedonism and near fanatical levels of zealotry, citing the overwhelming excitement over the "arrival of the Harbingers". Numerous deaths have been reported due to the chaotic nature of these celebrations. Drafts of able bodied men and women have been taking place at an increasing pace within the Imperium, while the establishment of infrastructure related to mass-production of armor and weapons has begun to crop up all around the eastern coast. Rumours circulate that the nomadic tribes of the northern, untamed wilderness outside of the Imperium's official borders have suffered unfathomable dismay as of late, with many of said tribes turning mad and feral with rage.

The Wild Hunt

The Wild Hunt has begun to trickle home to Raeyithia. Rumors abound about alliances made while on Summer Isle and some whisper about a wedding. Preparations for a festival to welcome all of the kingdoms and houses are underway as well as an announcement about the creation of a House Bagball Conference.

The Children of Io

Seven or eight dragons of many colors were seen entering Underhill and returning to Everdale two hours later looking travel worn and bloodied. No one in town reported any damages as they passed through.

Its rumored that the Council is still the process of restructuring as many faces are seen entering and leaving the embassy.

The embassy itself on Everdale sits empty after a tall sailing ship bearing the colors of red and yellow left port; save a single blue Goblin reported coming and going through a back window. Seen by other dock residents.

Opening Day

It is with a last summer ale, a spiced meat pie, and farewell to friends that those of Summer Isle bid "Tenna enta lúmë", to the Grey Rider's safe haven and board their ships for the mainland. They pack up their newly constructed goods, their repaired armor, their supplies and their accounts. The cargo ships are full to the brim with people, animals and everything the nobility, court lords and landed knights need for the coming season.

The autumn harvest springs thick, lush, and golden on the fields and hills of Cuiveinen. Soldiers in their villages rush to thrash and bundle, pull and store, preserve and salt. They know that they must have enough food for their families before they are required to report to the castles and strongholds of their liege lords. For war is never far from erupting in this volatile land where heroes compete for land and power on behalf of their country, king, and god.

Many will return soon, perhaps even on the next ship, but the days of sun and socializing will be lost in the drama of pending war and political machinations. To each the Grey Rider bids health and healing hands, as the lords of Cuivienen once again take up the reins, to ride again into the dark sorrow for oath and bond.

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