This thread is DM use only, it is a way for us to communicate major events that everyone who lives in Sanctuary could easily have heard about.

A member of the Spellguard was in Lower Sanctuary when a mob started gathering around and insulting him. He blinded an old man (some say turned him into a newt), and then used some sort of spell that knocked everyone off their feet. A Tigereye beat the crowd off him and he rushed to the stairwell.

Several riots or near riots have occured in Lower Sanctuary recently.

A gnome member of the Watch was publicly immolated by order of Councilor Colivin in the streets of Lower Sanctuary as punishment for several murders.

Shortly afterward, a massive explosion hit Sanctuary. The Comely Inn was utterly obliterated. Lower Sanctuary filled with smoke and ash, and fire elementals poured from the ruins to attack nearby adventurers. Finally a mysterious animatron appeared and doused the flame with cold magics. Victoria and all her employees are presumed dead.

The election has begun, a steady stream of commoners and citizens head into the Town Hall to cast their votes.

Speeches and talk of supporters fill the streets.

During a very long speech in the Town Hall, a pipe burst and flooded the entire chamber with sewage. Everyone was ushered out, and the pipe was fixed shortly.

The results of the latest election were announced by Mayor Bresley in the Town Hall.

The results were:

Grigor Starag Gaeseric the Unyielding Demetrius Bhast Ronus Graidan Ivandur Reynolt Victor Hastian Adelia Tyrell Julian Lancaster Mandarin Dreagle

Mere moments after the announcement of the results of the Council elections, a huge explosion was heard and felt throughout Upper Sanctuary, coming from the direction of the Seeker Headquarters. A huge hole had been blown through the side of that building, and fire and smoke poured out into the street. Citizen volunteers quickly extinguished the worst of the blazes.

Orog raided the Upper and Lower Gates recently, before being driven off after the death of the warchief.

Travelers coming from the Underdark report unusually numerous amounts of organized and armed drow patrols, questioning or imprisoning anyone they see.

Four male drow and one female approached the main gate and demanded audience with Sanctuary's King. A strange dwarf claimed to be the king, but was eventually arrested by the Spellguard.

The drow spoke with Councilor Reynolt, and laid forth their demands that certain fugitives (a half-drow, a female elf, a male half-orc, and several male humans) be returned to them so that bones in their stomachs could be removed.

They offered safety to Sanctuary in exchange for the bones, and promised to raze the town if they didn't get them.

They also offered great riches in gold and magical items to whoever would get them these bones.

A large fire gutted a large portion of lower sanctuary, filling much of the cavern with toxic smoke. Although the stone buildings stood up to the heat, the Zurkwood interiors didn't fair so well. Neither did the inhabitants. Estimates are that at least 40 perished in the blaze. It is unknown what started the fire.

Drow again approached the gate, and demanded an audience with someone authorized to speak for Sanctuary. They demanded six knucklebones, and offered great treasures to whoever would bring them to them. They said that if they did not get at least one bone within 24 hours, they would execute ten slaves, and double the number of slave executions every 24 hours.

Odd light are seen and the groaning of old machinery is increasingly heard throughout the abandoned ruins of Dunwarren.

The regular stream of traders, explorers, and outside merchants arriving in Sanctuary slows to a trickle. Many of the merchants who recently arrived in the city hastily pack up their wares and leave. The bazaar and streets assume a strange calm that they have not had in many months.

There is a buzz of activity at the Seeker Hall, with scouts coming and going regularly.

Deputized citizens are ordered to report to the Watch House, and don poorly fitting armor and take halberd in hand. Parents keep their children at home, and the guards are doubled at the gates.

All of the rumors and reports about an assault on the city are inconsistent, but everybody seems to agree on the following details:

A drow force surrounded the upper gates of Sanctuary and used catapults to launch dead human corpses into the city. Splattered guts and severed heads rained down upon Sanctuary's defenders: mostly Watchmen, deputized citizens, independent adventurers, and Spellguard agents supervising hulking animatrons. Bombardment ceased and resumed several times over the course of the siege, before the drow forces ultimately retreated. Councilor Ward was seen standing alongside Sanctuary's defenders on the battlements.

All of the rumors and reports about an assault on the city are largely inconsistent, but everybody seems to agree on the following details:

A drow force surrounded the upper gates of Sanctuary and used catapults to launch dead human corpses into the city. Splattered guts and severed heads rained down upon Sanctuary's defenders: mostly Watchmen, deputized citizens, independent adventurers, and Spellguard agents supervising hulking animatrons. Bombardment ceased and resumed several times over the course of the siege, before the drow forces ultimately retreated. Councilor Ward was seen standing alongside Sanctuary's defenders on the battlements.

Words spreads of drow fighting drow in the streets of Traensyr, large numbers of new slaves begin to stream back, speaking of an unprecedented disorder.

Word spreads of a huge fire at the House of Light in Lower Sanctuary. Despite the efforts of volunteers in putting out the fires on the first floor of that building, the second floor fires raged out of control and eventually caused that floor to collapse down into the first. After a considerable period of time, the smoke and acrid stench were cleared out and the building was left somewhat habitable, though utterly ruined.

Reports circulate about several spellguard, about a dozen Watch men in uniform, and another half a dozen irregular adventurers that headed into Lower Sanctuary. The citizens were not pleased about their presence there, but mostly headed into their homes. The entire contingent headed into the tunnels directly beneath Lower Sanctuary, and then emerged shortly afterward. Sergeant Borris was said to have looked furious and been swearing loudly and continuously as he left.

A steady stream of citizens head into the Town Hall Election Booth to cast their votes for the next council candidate.

The results of the latest election were announced by Mayor Bresley in the Town Hall.

The results were:

Demetrius Bhast, with 202 votes Gaeseric the Unyielding, with 195 votes Grigor Starag, with 178 votes Genevis Ward, with 121 votes Adelia Tyrell, with 116 votes Jacob Geigne, with 111 votes Mandarin Dreagle, with 98 votes Rilo Manasi, with 86 votes Morgan Maddocks, with 86 votes

Many citizens in Lower Sanctuary discuss with concern how a large number of orphans, street urchins, and other children have gone missing as of late.

Iron window bars, heavy multipart locks, metal shutters, arrow holes, and other signs of fortification appear on all manner of buildings in both Upper and Lower Sanctuary in the days after Councilor Dreagle's recent speech.

Large groups of giant spiders overran the Upper part of Sanctuary, driving many citizens into their homes and slaying others. The spiders were eventually destroyed, but at the cost of numerous lives.

A massive invasion of Chosen overran much of the town, covering the streets of both Upper and Lower while citizens and civilians cowered in their home. Eventually, through the brave work of heroic adventurers, they were pushed back. Many of the Chosen were heard to exclaim about,"their wheel" and "give it back."

For some time there is discussion of a well publicized group led by one Jake "The Whisker" and two Seekers that supposedly was going to find a way to the surface, having been provided information by some sort of earth elemental demi-god. The group was seen leaving, and although one of the Seekers promised to return with whatever information he could learn, none of them were ever seen again.

A steady stream of citizens make their way to to the election booth in the Town Hall to cast their votes for the next Sanctuary Council.

The winners of the Tarsakh Council Elections are announced.

Grigor Starag, with 232 votes. Demetrius Bhast, with 228 votes. Gaeseric the Unyielding, with 206 votes. Shane, with 171 votes. Adelia Tyrell, with 119 votes. Gregor Toboerski, with 116 votes. Kayragh, with 89 votes. Majre Noguerya, with 86 votes. Ronus Graidan, with 71 votes.

Wandering traders and Seeker Scouts speak with relief of the departure of the recent drow from the territories around Sanctuary, but say that oddly there seems to be large numbers of goblins moving in.

Although the much feared drow-raid did not occur (with much gossip as to why), a very large group of goblins did attack the Sanctuary Gate. Although the goblins managed to destroy one of the gates, they were ultimately repulsed and routed.

Some kobolds with very dark face-paint and unique symbols turned up at the front gates of the city. They disappeared shortly after, but common vogue is that a couple of them were allowed entry, and were taken to the town hall.

Current vogue rumors have been circling the citizens

• Their leader challenged the mayor to a grand battle, which the mighty Yorrick overcame, allowing the city to stave off an assault in this trial by combat
• A ransom was paid, along the lines of that which the drow demanded.
• They are now citizens of Sanctuary, and have been allowed residence in Dunwarren and the sewers

One lasting effect however is that the commonfolk seem to be giving more leeway to their reptilian populace, and trade at Lord Bunges has tripled since this incident.

Commoners in the Canal Ward report seeing two members of the Society of the Ordered Mind Walk into the Steady Hand in Lower. Shortly afterwards one exited and ran up to Upper, and returned with several companions and a large numbers of barrels of alchemist's fire. Then they and their companions exited the building, and it blew up, completely collapsing, and causing a large fire.

Commoners report the tigereyes acting very oddly lately. There seems to be a wave of paranoia washing over the duty guardsmen, who seem to be on a heightened state of alert - even the normally lazy and reticent members are clamping down on the slightest suspicious looking activity, and bribes have doubled in cost.

The Upper section notices that watch patrols near the staircase have doubled, and everyone that comes up or goes down appears to be being closely monitored. Nothing seems to have changed as far as the guards in Lower are concerned.

Also, ((Only for those who go to Sewer Town)) the citizens seem to have recently gained a great deal of fresh bedding from sources unknown.

A great number of rumors have popped up around conditions in lower sanctuary. They all agree there was a great deal of bloodshed, but the reasons vary widely.

* The tigereyes were caught dealing slaves to the drow in return for weapons. To try to cover up their crimes, they started slaughtering citizens who knew the truth. Fortunately, word spread faster than the Tigereyes could keep up with.

* A gang called the red smiles tried to take over lower sanctuary. They completely wiped out the Tigereyes and now run lower.

* A group of rebels fighting for freedom from the tigereyes brutality gave their lives to break the mercenary band's power. They managed to kill the captain, but were killed in the process.

* A warehouse fire in the canal ward is was the result of a demon being summoned in the city. The tigereyes tried to fight it off, and lost most of their company doing so.

* The watch and spellguard made an attempt to take over lower. They killed off the tigers, as well as a gang they saw as a threat to their stranglehold on power. Fortunately, some citizens blew up the stares to keep them from reenforcing.

* Monty Ubel returned to lead the people to freedom! The people of sewer town joined with the people of lower sanctuary to remove the Tigereyes from power, freeing the people. Many citizens gave their lives to let the rest of lower sanctuary live free.

* The Tigereyes went after a group called the Red Smiles, slaughtering citizens left and right if they thought they might be involved with the gang. Word is they never found the gang, but over 100 citizens were killed while they looked.

* The chosen sprung from the sewers, killing a great number of citizens. Only a heroic effort by the red smiles and the tigereyes pushed them back. Unfortunately the numbers of both groups were decimated.

* The chaos of the tigers finally caught up with them. A number of them mutinied, and by the end of it, most of their company was dead, leaving a big void in the power of lower.

* A mob of adventurers from upper came down and slaughtered people in the streets.

Several hours after the chaos in lower, strange, shadowy flames spilled out onto the streets of upper, claiming several lives before being driven off. Rumors abound as to the source - some say the Spellguard's experiments went wrong, others insist they came from the chaos in lower, and others still say that they came out of the Dunwarren Ruins.

The district once known as Lower Sanctuary has been left a smoking wasteland. Amidst the husks of darkened and burnt-out buildings, armed gangs struggle with each other for land, power, and even food and clean water. There are whispers of atrocities committed by the Tigereyes and the Red Smiles, by the Spellguard and the Watch -- slavings and slaughters, dark magics and betrayals. Old cults and criminal guilds, violent gangs and cryptic brotherhoods, once all suppressed by the Tigereye Mercenary Company, are rumored to have re-emerged, laying claim to long-lost authority and enacting bloody vengeance upon their old rivals for forgotten wrongs. Children and old men are seen carrying arms and waving banners not seen beneath Sanctuary for dozens and dozens of years.

The sounds of slaughter, proclaimation, and armed conflict can be heard throughout the night by the nervous citizens listening from the relative security of Upper Sanctuary.

Citizens speak of strange and bloody deaths occuring in lower, including the House of Light. Victims hearts taken from their chests, without a care for the bodies are commonplace now.

The fear spreads rife through the community, some even going to the gangs, and to the Crone for solace. News reaches Upper and the Mayors office...

A small but steady stream of laborers, shopkeepers, traders, farmers, craftsmen, and other common people begin to make their way away from their ruined homes in Lower Sanctuary, abandoning their former lives and embarking upon the difficult journey out to Upper Sanctuary. Some go in groups for protection; others, who can still afford it, hire adventurers as guards. Of those who attempt the journey alone, most are never seen again.

Duergar from Grunstubhle are seen walking to the Gate and installing a new set of massive steel doors, and observed walking out overladen with a huge pile of gold.

A steady stream of citizens arrive in the Town Hall to cast their votes in the Kythorn elections for Council. Amongst them are many refugees from Lower Sanctuary, who are vocal about wanting the Council to "win back their district."

Councilor Gaeseric is noticeably absent from the usual campaigning that takes place at the podium and on the streets.

Two of the Knights of Toboerski barged into the voting booth and begin loudly advocating their Lord's cause and noting for whom various citizens were voting. They were sent away by the election supervisors with little but a warning, despite demands from angry onlookers that Toboerski be disqualified for his men's behavior. At least one later returned and had to be taken into custody.

Citizens report that a large, flaming, half-sunken drow ship was seen slowly floating into the canal ward coming from the canal. When it crash landed, hundreds of children and a small group of adventurers came off. The ship subsequently collapsed and sunk into the canal.

Shortly thereafter, the Canal Ward was a mad-house. The majority of children were led by a pan-playing Seeker to the Archibald Estate, which has turned into a madhouse filled with children many in desperate need.

Many other children, however, wandered off into the alleys and streets of Lower Sanctuary either on their own or with others.

The winners of the Kythorn Council election were announced.

171 Demetrius Bhast 147 Grigor Starag 146 Adelia Tyrell 143 Alexander Archibald 118 Ronus Graidan 107 Gaeseric the Unyielding 106 Frum Highill 100 Akevitt Anvilsmasher 87 Dungal Toboerski

Any elected candidate who was not present to claim the position has twenty four hours to do so, before the position goes to the next in line.

Travellers on the roads report meeting a an older hooded man with a cane who inquired of an "escaped evil." They report that his eyes were pure white with no pupils, and that he had an incredible presence to him.

A terrible, incurable plague has struck Sanctuary. Though the origin of the plague is unclear, it is rumoured two Dwarves brought it through the gates and spread it onto countless people whilst they made their way through the city.

The unafflicted citizens are already calling for strict quarantines on those infected by the plague, so that it may be stopped in its infancy before it becomes ubiquitous among the populace. Those that make a living from curing diseases find their services in high demand, although it is said that their efforts are in vain.

Those suffering from the plague are easily distinguished by numerous symptoms which can include a cloud of flies buzzing around the afflicted, festering sores, a jaundice or gaunt appearance, frequent vomiting and the rotting away of limbs and appendages.

As the plague continues to spread, many citizens and commoners begin to wear strange beak-masks that are believed to help ward away the plague.

Some speak angrily of rumors that those who brought cures -- a wizard of Moander by the gate accompaned by huge golems, a lizardfolk merchant in the alleys of Lower -- have all been attacked by overeager adventurers. Others say that the adventurers merely sought to stop the plague being spread and figure out a true cure for the town.

The plague - for inexplicable, mysterious reasons - ends. Clouds of flies and maggots drift away, and health begins to return to the people of Sanctuary. With a few exceptions, most citizens return to their daily lives and give little thought to what might have been responsible for its so sudden end.

Word rapidly spreads that peace has been achieved in Lower Sanctuary. A coalition of local citizens has apparently agreed to work together to rebuild the city as a free state, forming a five-man council to oversee the process.

Word is that the undertaking was spearheaded by a mysterious Mr Wesh, and includes representatives of the Pissing Crone, Golden Mercenaries, Frankie's Angels, and the footmen of Big Bill Danielson. While details are largely unknown at this time, tales of a grand celebration at the Pissing Crone are common.

The commoners on the street whisper words of relief, skepticism, and hope, depending on who you speak with.

Wild rumors about the Toboerski family begin to circulate, including one that Gregor Toboerski was murdered. Accounts of the murder range from his ambitious cousin Dungal, to werecreatures, to assassins in the Watch, to devils, to old enemies from his lands above.

Talk and rumours spread quickly around first Lower then eventually to Upper Sanctuary about a gruesome gang battle fought outside the Temple of Hoar between Westside Ellie and 'Hayley's Angels'. Alledged witnesses claim only two were left standing, with fifteen times that number left for dead--Hayley and another emerging from the bloodbath still living.

Violence bloodies the streets of Lower Sanctuary once again, near the staircase to lower. Rumored numbers of the dead vary from two dozen to closer to fifty. Several Watch and Spellguard were thought to be amongst the killed, as well as many residents of lower, gangmembers, and various bystanders. Some say that Johnny Dimes was killed along with his gang, though the whispered rumor in the Crone is that he was off with one of his lady friends, and is now laying low.

Rumors spread of over a hundred drum-playing kobolds being casually led through the Lower Gate by a man wearing shadowy-black plate.

Rumors spread of a strange tournament that was held at the Sanctuary arena. A mad Garagosian cleric who called himself Cathbadh offered selections of his magical weaponry to citizens who would best his summoned creatures.

After much death and some victories, the Spellguard apparently sought to arrest and question Cathbadh but the man summoned what he described as "his fiercest creature of all," which turned out to be a terrible dragon that murdered several people before disappearing. It was also noted that after each battle the man collected the blood from his victims in a number of buckets.

Word spreads like wildfire that Sheriff Eugene Walters, commonly known as Sheriff Short, was found guilty of involvement in a ring of slavers and was executed. Most of the town showed up for his stoning.

The rumor is that the Spellguard have temporarily taken over the Watch to conduct an investigation of the Watch, and that the Watch Lieutenants are to be arrested.

A great many new arrivals have come to Sanctuary, though the estimates on the numbers vary greatly, there is certainly a new buzz around the town as the new faces appear mainly in Lower Sanctuary, but also around Upper too as the more intelligent and resourceful ones take up their old trades, far away now from their previous plight as slaves to be bartered by the orogs, drow, and kuo toa.

During an orog raid on the devastatingly under-defended Lower Gate, it's rumored that there was some devilry in the Archibald Estate. The gossipy refugees who make their home in the Archibald estate report that the long-suffering Murp Tessel, personal aid to the Archibald family, lost his mind and began to rave and rant and may possibly have been involved in the killing of the Archibald patriarch, the noted historian Mendrick Archibald.

Rumors spread of Lower Councilor Scent being led away into an abandoned House in Lower, never to return. Word spreads of Lower Councilor Jarbey also being missing.

Rumors spread of a speech given by Councilor Starag, followed by a ritual in which he turned himself to stone.

A steady stream of Citizens make their way to the Town Hall voting booth to cast their votes for the Eleasis election.

Word spreads that adventurers from Sanctuary recently rescued ten pregnant human women from an illithid slave caravan. The women are staying at the Archibald Estate.

Citizens angrily remark upon the large numbers of kobolds filing up from Lower to vote for their candidate, with many citizens demanding that kobolds and goblins not be granted voting rights in the future.

The Eleasis Council Election results were announced by a weary looking Yorrick Bresley in the Town Hall. It was remarked that many of the candidates were unable to show up to assume the position. The Mayor explained that all winners would have a day* to arrive at the office of the Herald to accept the position.

Demetrius Bhast (207)
Alexander Archibald (182)
Shane (164)
Lucien Deauxfortes (145)
Maxwell von Matterheim (142)
Julian Fryar (95)
Eugene Castile (86)
Gibbon Meldren (85)
Maeturorant Gorthaurca (55)

Additionally, the Spellguard announced that Ronus Graidan would assume the position of acting Watch Sheriff.

* Because of the holiday and the fact I know lots of people are out of town (and I won't be around much either), we're extending the deadline to accept the position for a few days since as far as I know everyone just couldn't make it for OOC reasons.

The mood of the citizenry in Upper Sanctuary is shifting beyond mere disgruntlement with the Council's continuing weakness in the face of a prolonged rebellion. Many common people are growing angry with the lack of a strong response by the Council to the "traitors and monsters infesting Lower Sanctuary." Their discontent has recently been inflamed by the swarm of kobolds who voted in the most recent election, and particularly by the active involvement of the Seekers in leading the rebellion, which many are calling straight-out treason. For the first time in living memory, many of the citizens of Upper Sanctuary are beginning to outright question the wisdom of depending upon the Council for governance, in spite of ongoing attempts by the acting Councilors to justify their continued legitimacy.

Wild rumours begin to circulate about Goblin Town issuing a 5000 gold reward for the safe return of a stolen artefact of vast power. Some say the artefact is a magical blade of great power, others insist the artefact is a sacred amulet, holy to Maglubiyet. Regardless, anyone who passes by Goblin Town will note that the goblins are all making several angry references to a stolen artefact.

Word circulates among the population, especially Lower, about a spellcasting man dressed in yellow and gold colored flamboyant clothes. People on the street saw plumes and jets of wild colors spraying forth from his hands and numerous balls of light appear from nowhere. Chaos errupted as the lights began killing those unfortunate enough to be in the path of his magic. Children were among those slain, their bodies lying bleeding in the streets. He was seen to have drunk a potion, and vanish into thin air.

In upper Sanctuary, nearing the gates, numerous travellors witnessed a female flailing at thin air, though seemingly conecting with something physical. After she stopped the attack, it was heard a flamboyantly dressed man in yellow and gold colors was unconcious on the ground. Both were seen taken into custody

Word spreads that the popular and well-liked former Councilor Adelia Tyrell was seized by lizardfolk while she was researching out by the Dark Lake. She was apparently brutally tortured and on the verge of being sacrificed to their new god of rot before she was miraculously rescued by druids and escorted back to town by Sanctuary adventurers.

Rumors spread of a devastating drow raid on the Lower Gate. At the moment that all seemed lost and drow warriors streamed through the gate, an enormous dragon appeared in a pool of shadow and killed dozens of drow. It then led a the adventurers out into the darkness beyond, terrifying the drow by virtue of its presence and destroying them with its enormous strength. It was heard to proclaim that it could keep Sanctuary safe if its people will accept its protection.

The residential district in Upper Sanctuary is full of citizens shouting and cursing the Council for it's latest decree. Watch Sergeant Sheps can be seen in there with a few privates, trying to calm the citizens and attempting to prevent the unrest from spreading out into the rest of the Upper quarter.

Some of the following statements can be heard from the citizens in the residential district:

I can't believe those idiots in the Council just removed every crime that any murderer or thief in Lower has comitted!

I can't believe they're just going to lie down and let those ruffians get away with rebellion!

Starag was right! The city is collapsing! The end is nigh!

The Council is just appeasing to the rebels and throwing us into the pits!

They're caving in to their demands, now we'll never see a united Sanctuary again. The city will collapse!

The Council is undermining law and order just to gain some cheap political points from those rebels in the Lower quarter!

They're selling out Upper Sanctuary in order to appease some murderers and thieves in Lower. What next? Will we have to give them our homes?

Locals, and regulars that frequent The Beacon are seen angrily cursing about a band of brigands that stormed inside, and stole all of the food within the building that was cooked and prepared. Some of them say it was goblins, other insist it was filthy kobolds. Regardless, all the locals are seemingly in agreement that the kobolds and goblins are becoming a nuisance. Many locals are calling for their removal, some as per usual, are apathetic to the situation.

About the Southern Alleyways, the Goblin and Kobold populations have obviously been booming. Many of the locals in Lower Sanctuary are seen uttering hushed whispers of unease, as the poverty-stricken creatures rapidly expand and continue to claim more and more of Lower Sanctuary as their own...

Merchants in the bazaars of Sanctuary trade wild rumors about a cold blooded attack on the Blue Mushroom Inn. One thing that is for sure is that business with the Blue Mushroom gnomes has bascially ceased.

The Marpenoth elections have begun. A steady stream of citizens head to the voting booth in the Town Hall to cast votes for their candidates.

Lower and Upper have supposedly reunified, although a sharp division in the minds of many remains.

It's rumored that the duergar of the Grunstubhle Clan have totally abandoned Sanctuary. Many panicked citizens are furious that their family fortunes, entrusted in the Duergar Bank, have been stolen. Others are more concerned about the lack of a dependable source of steel and crafting for the entire city.

Rumors continue to spread about the lizardfolk, and a rumored invasion. With the duergar miners gone, many fear that the lizardfolk will be uncontested in their drive towards the Sanctuary Gate.

The Marpenoth Election results were announced in the town hall.

Demetrius Bhast (176)
 Maxwell von Matterheim (141)
 Blackhaw of the Beacon (136)
 Adelia Tyrell (124)
 Julian Fryar (114)
 Alexander Reile, (100)
 Aaron Russell (97)
 Gloinar Runehammer (76)
 Gibbon Meldren (believed dead - not eligible) (66)
 Wendall Hood (believed dead - not eligible) (64)
 Frum Highill (62)

It was announced that all winners would have twenty four hours to claim the position.

There are rumors of citizens having disappeared from both Upper and Lower Sanctuary. No reports have been filed as of yet to either the Watch or the Spellguard.

The lizardfolk of Sslal'teesh have invaded Sanctuary. They managed to obliterate the Upper Gate and most of the town's defenders. The Rock Bottom, Sanctuary's oldest tavern, was razed to the ground. Many citizens were slain or seized and taken back as slaves. Finally, a rallied group of adventurers and Spellguard Animatrons were able to drive the lizardfolk armies back.

The devastation to the town's morale and security has been enormous. Meanwhile, it's rumored that the kobolds making their home in the canal ward have seized even more territory for themselves, and begun the assembly of giant dragon idols.

Many openly begin to say that Sanctuary does not have long to survive.

The Seekers have established a refugee camp, with shelter and bedding available to all.

Rumors spread that the High Shaman of the Moanderite Lizardfolk was slain after extraordinary efforts by some of the bravest Watch and adventurers of Sanctuary. Mayor Bresley gave a speech proclaiming Marpenoth 15 as a day of remembrance and celebration. At the conclusion of the speech, the figure of a terrible dragon rose from a pool of shadow. It said something like:

You murdered my disciple.

He who tried to do so much offer you my power, my might. Murdered like a dog at your gate.

You will have twenty four hours to give me Fryar. If he is not given to me, I will raze your settlement to the ground.

The offer extended to you for all this long time of my protection to your curious little settlement is withdrawn.

You shall face the consequences of your failure to accept me. You will face the dangers of the darkness alone.

But you will give me Fryar, or you will have ME to deal with.

Rumors also speak of a halfling who insulted the dragon, and was devoured later in the Hold.

The exterior of the Spellguard Tower was rocked with an explosion, destroying two animatrons and damaging the exterior of the building. A large bounty was put out by the Spellguard for whoever was responsible for the attack.

A band of roughly 150 goblins is said to have waltzed right into Sanctuary through the Canal Ward gate, demanding gold and slaves. The goblins were dispatched, and eventually driven back by several adventurers. Commoners, beggars, and cultists alike seem worried and upset about the defense and current status of Lower Sanctaury.

A slow trickle of exhausted escaped slaves begins to arrive at Sanctuary, reporting strange events in Traensyr. Although many of the claims contradict each other, what is known is that an entire ward of lower Traensyr was flooded with slimy waters from the Dark Lake.

Hours after large numbers of called up reserves and Watchmen headed to the Lower Canal Gate, a disciplined and fierce group of Orogs attacked the gate. Many Watchmen and adventurers were slain, before finally being pushed out. A drunk hobgoblin was heard loudly proclaiming that he was responsible for killing the fierce warchief.

Subsequently, there was considerable controversy outside the Town Hall. As citizens massed to hear a speech from the Mayor, an enraged Sheriff Fawkes bludgeoned a Tribesman with his fists, and several times proclaimed that the Tribe were just like the Tigereyes and had no honor for demanding blood-money for their aid. The Tribesman repeatedly tried to claim that he and his people would have come to the town's defense in exchange for a single coin. Eventually the Mayor himself ordered Sergeant Blackbeard to restrain the Sheriff, with the situation ultimately culminating in the Tribesmen fleeing the town and more violence outside the gate.

Shortly after Sheriff Fawkes made a sending ordering the Watch to shoot at any people of the Tribe if they approached the gate, this was countermanded by a representative from the Office of the Herald acting on the behalf of an unknown Councilor. The exact legal status of members of the mysterious tribe remains unclear to most citizens, with public opinion generally being one of suspicion and fear.

As things finally began to settle down and Mayor Bresley began to hand out rewards to those who had aided in Lower's defense, the Mayor himself was viciously and suddenly attacked by an assassin directly outside the Town Hall. Both the Mayor and assassin escaped, with the Sheriff claiming that the assassin had been sent by the Tribe. After a long-hunt, the assassin attempted to blow up the sealed door that leads to the interior of the Town Hall, apparently killing himself in the process.

Rumors and gossip continues to circulate, and public opinion is generally divided. A majority of citizens seem to believe that the Tribe's lack of aid is clear proof that they are not to be trusted and should be driven away from Sanctuary. Others say that the Tribe merely wanted a good faith payment, and that the pride and stubbornness of the Watch is what got people killed. Other rumors and tidbits of gossip, each wilder than the last, circulate in whispers as the people of Sanctuary fearfully await future events.

Rumors spread in Sanctuary of recent trouble with the veterans of the Ubel rebellion. According to some, the Sheriff himself was slain while in Sewer Town. Subsequently a massive raid of Watch headed into the sewers but were soundly defeated, with many accounts of it being a single figure who ultimately defeated the Watch - the fearsome, filthy Tooth.

A steady stream of citizens head to cast their votes for Nightal election.

( Nightal 4th :: Year 151 :: 1373 DR )

Sanctuary is rocked with momentous rebellion. Violent rebels from Sewer Town ascended and began a bloody assault on Big Bill and the Watchmen of Lower, brutally murdering all the Watch they could find along with Bill's men. What followed was a gruesome three hour battle in the streets of Lower in which waves of Upper aligned warriors pushed against the insurrectionists and there was general murder and mayhem all around.

Things reached a fever pitch when it was learned that wererat assassins successfully assassinated Seeker Ivlysar and Mayor Yorrick Bresley. The Council then had an emergency session and voted Councilor Demetrius Bhast as acting Mayor.

Eventually Upper Sanctuary rallied and Spellguard representatives led a last and more prepared assault against the rebels. The rebels fought a bloody last stand in the Lower Fortress, and were eventually slain.

The mood in Sanctuary is of quiet desperation and fear. The streets of Lower are still stained with blood, and the people of Upper are grieving the loss of their Mayor and of so many brave Watchmen.

Amidst a large crowd, the winners of the Nightal elections were announced at Town Hall.

The Councillors are:

Demetrius Bhast, who promised further protection and prosperity for all law-abiding citizens.

Maxwell von Matterheim, who required assistance from his aide, but eventually proclaimed his devotion to Sanctuary.

Adelia Tyrell, who was heartened by the support of the people, despite many attempts to discredit her this term. She pledged further leadership with compassion and equality.

Frum Highhill, who was not present.

Wyric, who assured the crowd that they had made a good choice.

Dugo Nish, who was not present.

Victor Hastian , who complimented the voters on their fine taste, despite their terrible fashion sense.

Uncle Worn, who wished to celebrate with beer and whores.

Ferdinand Fenwick, who reassured the citizens that he would always be available to lend an ear to their words.

Councillors Highhill and Nish have twenty-four hours to register at the Herald's office, or their places will be filled by runner-up candidates.

16 Nightal 151

Chosen charged through Lower after two men who tried to hide in the bloodied Fortress. Two groups of brave citizens fought off the Chosen and proceded to hunt for their origin...

Nightal 19th Year 151

An odd gnome was seen distributing the flyers seen in this post

http://escapefromunderdark.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=21026

A lot of commonfolk are overheard mentioning that they will go to it, which causes some chagrin amongst governance. All the disillusioned, the rabble, the impoverished peoples of Sanctuary mutter about a chance at a better way of life, even a small chance, for the possible risk of danger, may be worth taking, for their lives are barely worth living at this moment in time...

It's rumored that large numbers of goblins and kobolds have been moving beyond their alleyway homes and causing problems throughout Lower Sanctuary. People speak of fighting between the humanoids and adventurers, with casualties on both sides. Members of the Council have made public sendings exhorting people to fight against the goblinoids, and there's even rumors of potential bounties or medals given out to particularly effective goblin/kobold hunters.

Rumors speak of Goblin Town being completely wiped out.

Stories are told of an infuriated Society Ordinant charging into the bazaar and instructing a duergar merchant to prepare himself for a future of peaceful bliss in death, away from the grips of the Abberant Menace. The duergar is reported to have fled, screaming for the protection of his master. Some speculate that the duergar was indeed a thrall, others maintain the Society Ordinant simply scared the creature into a frenzy. No one is exactly sure if the merchant survived.

It is said amongst locals that an emissary from Traensyr recently arrived at the gates of Sanctuary, demanding tribute and payment for the actions of two foolish gnomes. Some tell stories of a brave gnomish figure, rising to battle the emissary only to fall terribly in defeat. All are in a state of unease, as no one is exactly sure how many slaves Traensyr is demanding this time...

After a great deal of confused reports, it eventually becomes clear that a group of men with stolen uniforms murdered First Citizen Demetrius Bhast. Sheriff Azzam is said to be in a terrible rage, and offering huge rewards to anyone who helps him bring justice to those responsible.

Numerous citizens can be seen in and around the Town Hall wondering why the elections haven't started. A few annoyed citizens can be heard demanding an explanation from the Council, others simply go on with their business.

The people of Sanctuary begin to speak nervously about the chaotic state of their city, and the inability of the Council to react.

Indeed, whispers have begun to grow into shouts; the Council is called a joke openly in the streets, and the citizens of Upper begin to look elsewhere, anywhere, for guidance.

Rumor spreads of Councilors Frum and Wyric negotiating a deal involving the transfer of an immense sum to an enormous, shadowy dragon in exchange for protection against a minor raid from one of the splintered Traensyrian Drow Houses. According to rumor, the dragon was grievously wounded in a pitched battle fought in the caves near Sanctuary's gate but managed to destroy the drow.

It is also widely reported that Uncle Worn's Stew Shop was destroyed in a massive inferno, from which terrible, unusual elementals poured out from and slew several citizens. A few beggars mention that Councilor Frum was seen entering, but not seen leaving directly before the explosion.

There's whispers on the streets that the council charter has failed. That because there is no mayor to oversee elections, and because there is not enough councilors to vote for a mayor, the council is doomed to lose its legitimacy.

Watch Privates are heard grumbling about their pay, some claiming to have not received any pay for the last week. Spellguard Agents are heard murmuring about the reduced pay they are having to endeavor. Rumors spread throughout the Last Stand and Pissing Crone from a few drunks that the Council Treasury is nearly bankrupt.

* People are seen in lower, migrating in small numbers into the Canal Ward area, where it is reported that food it beginning to become more plentiful. Mushrooms are sprouting up from the rich moist soil, especially around the old rothe pens and near the canal waters edge, and an earthy, musty sort of smell is beginning to permeate the area. It is noted that the Cave Worm Clan is also patrolling the streets and holding feasts, more so than they had in the past, and that the area is slowly being cleaned up by those that have or are now living there.

Word spreads from the residential area of Upper that a blind preacher, a Tyrran, has been walking the streets calling people to do the just and right things...and that the previous corruptions of the city have caused it to fail. He has begun to have a small but respected following of likeminded people.

Other people talk about what will become of the Watch, and of the Spellguard. Especially with the newly placed markers around the spellguard tower denoting that it is Spellguard territory

The mood of Sanctuary is of quiet discomfort. The commoners whisper to one another with worried stares in their eyes.

"Who is this new mayor, anyways?"

"He just declared himself mayor? Didn't Bhast do that? I bet this Wyric guy is a were-rat too!"

"We're doomed! He did nothing for us on the Council, how is he going to pull us together when we are at our worst?"

No one seems particularly behind the new 'mayor', however, no one seems overly eager to riot.

Several speeches were given in a frenzied political atmosphere. Firstly, a strange Tyrran fanatic announced that Baron Maxwell Von Matterheim and his comrad Stanislaw Lem would be delivering a speech in the Residential District. They spoke to a crowd of roughly twenty people, declaring Sanctuary an unsalvagable cesspool of corruption. When the speaking ended, they left for a new area of the city, declaring it their new and lawful utopia.

The man who declared himself mayor was heard to give a speech, only to have it interrupted by 20 watchmen under the control of Sheriff Azzam. Azzam made a speech to the public, declaring the following things:

-He would be known as the 'Temporary Overseer of Sanctuary' during this time of political unrest. -New changes were to be made to the Council Charter. -Only five council members per term. -Election poll booths were to be open for three days starting tomorrow and would be supervised by the Watch. -The position of Mayor was to be removed completely from the Sanctuary political system.

Azzam also announced that when the new elections were over, he'd step down as the Temporary Overseer of Sanctuary, and would return to his normal duties as the Sheriff of the Watch.

...

Meanwhile, elsewhere in Sanctuary, several Bhast Mercenaries are seen joining up in Azzam's Watch, bolstering their numbers to a new high not seen in the Watch for sometime by Sanctuary's locals.

Sheriff Azzam called a gathering at the Townhall, and brought forth a naked woman accused of slaving.

After some grave warnings about his feelings on such a subject, he snapped the woman's neck.

The corpse was then beheaded with the deceased's own blade, and left on the steps as a grim reminder of a slaver's fate in Sanctuary.

Rumor speaks that Councilor Frum Highill of the Highill Emporium was assaulted and taken away in a sack by a mysterious figure in white leathers and a white stag helm. He is believed dead. A struggling Watchman was seen staggering to the Watchouse with Frum's enormous bag of wares.

Citizens trickle in to vote in the Alturiak 152 elections, slowly at first, but more and more living in Upper Sanctuary realize they have less time to make up their minds, and should probably at least vote while they have a chance.

Many take notice of the new laws and charter, some praising the simplicity, others worrying over the power of the Watch.

Several deputies, privates and a Sergeant follow the Sheriff to Town Hall. Exactly one hour after the polls were closed, Sheriff Azzam announced the Councilors of Alturiak 152 and stepped down as Temporary Overseer of Sanctuary. The results were:

• Councilors: Hosfyrd Reev (174) Baron Iondale (157) Wyric Crowshire (131) Elizabeth Dufroid (87) Andrik Krown (79)

• Runner-ups: Sachrissa Elaueth (72) Alistair Rousseau (65) Haren De'votell (48) Elias Brock (45) Ernestine Helthor (14)

Word spreads that Sheriff Azzam held another public execution for a slaver, personally snapping his neck like a brittle twig. The body, as last time, was beheaded and left to rot on the Town Steps.

Shortly afterwards, Sergeant Blackbeard berated several council members publically, while praising the swift and brutal justice of Sheriff Azzam.

Tales spread quite quickly from Mycopolis to all portions of the city that a half dozen or so new arrivals came through the lower gate, dragging behind them supplies enough for a lengthy stay. The stories of who the visitors are vary. Some say they were a group of half drow slavers, setting up in chaotic lower to take advantage of the lawless state. Other says they were a group of ancient svirfneblin of Dunwarren that have relocated to Mycopolis after being driven out of their former hiding place. Other still say they were a group of gnomish druids come to assist Mycopolis in bringing balance. All the rumours however seem to be clear on the point that whoever these strange visitors are, they've begun to settle in down in Mycopolis.

After a month of feuding and conflict, two Gangs have managed to carve Lower between themselves.

South of the river, "The Dirty Nancies" hold sway. In the North, a Gold Dwarf named Ledskir runs things from the old Gambling Hall. Currently, the two are at an uneasy truce.

Crypt rats begin to make a presence within the gates of New Dunwarren. Many of them mind their own business, while others spread disease, steal food and attack the children.

Not long after, a green gas slowly began to seep up from the ground. It has a noxious smell and is slowly polluting the air.

Later a screaming woman points to a hand emerging from the earth. It is said that an undead burst from a ground, but was swiftly slain.

Several cry that the land of New Dunwarren is cursed, but the settlers remain firm in their prayers.

The undead attacks on New Dunwarren cease, and the rats flee from the hill. The settlers are seen giving thanks to the gods, and begin work to rebuild what they have lost.

On Ches 21st, 1374 DR, the Tribe of Blade quietly disappears from Sanctuary.

Words spreads quickly of a single, insane woman (reportedly Apathetic Annie herself) taking out the entirety of the Dirty Nancies, as well as a large chunk of innocent commoners. The Mikkelsons are among the dead, some rumors state.

The old Nancies HQ was set alight, and beggars swarmed to loot the fallen.

The Ledskir Crew, meanwhile, has moved onto the other side of the river unchecked.

Adventurers who have recently visited Loblobliiiblop often mention that the Kuo-Toans there are making a call for help. Allegedly, some sort of longboat has been harassing the island and the Kuo-Toans would be most rewarding to those who could help them rid of the threat.

The people of Old and Lower Sanctuary alike quickly spread word that the toll gate at the In Between was destroyed, reportedly by a barbarian of the Cave Worm Clan. He alone was allegedly able to take on the Watchmen and several animatrons, until he died on his retreat back to Lower.

Spellguard Animatrons were reported to be guarding the stairwell down to Lower until evacuated by Spellguard Agents. The dead watchmen and animatrons were carried off.

Later a group of Ledskir gangsters made a presence on the other side of the In Between gate. They claimed they didn't want trouble, but was securing land that Ledskir considered part of Lower. Although at the arrival of a group of Spellguard Animatrons, the Ledskirs left the In Between post and returned to Lower.

The Watch Sergeant on site has declared that the toll will no longer be enforced until word from Sheriff Azzam has been received.

The Kuo-Toans of Loblobliiiblop cheer in celebration, claiming that a group of random (yet brave, if stupid) adventurers came to the island's rescue. It is said that the drow privateers have backed their harassment of the island.

Rumors abound about a prize apprentice of Alexander Archibald going missing on a routine errand to the Trollwarden Sluto Levenstone's camp. Speculation as to what happened is wild and rampant.

A gang of children is seen approaching anyone and everyone in Lower, telling them to join the 'Loons' from the east side if they're crazy enough to fit in.

The city is currently suffering under a metal shortage. Merchants are selling less metal wares, such as armor and weaponry. Watch members complain that the Watch no longer has a supplier of chainmail and weaponry. Disgruntled citizens begin to gather in the Town Hall, demanding the Council to do something while insulting their leadership.

Election season rolls around. The citizens of Old Sanctuary begin to gather in the Town Hall for politically minded discussion, and campaign flyers begin to spread about. Flyers also slowly begin to appear in Lower, fallen as debri from the Upper.

Election results, as reported by Sheriff Azzam, for Mirtul 152:

Aledrec of Yhaunn (189) Sir Gimmininy (128) Pepto Fizzwiggle (114) Wyric Crowshire (111) Count Nelson Mehnia (98) --------------- Sachrissa Elaueth (96) Ayumi Hikaru (95) Porki Thule (16)

Word spreads around Sanctuary about an influx of pregnant women rumored to be thralls of an illithid, carrying aberrant babies in their wombs. Its commonly said the Watch and Seekers brought them into the city. Panic and unease spread through Sanctuary, with citizens unsure of what to do and who to trust. Society Ordinants have manned a bonfire in Lower Sanctuary, stating it will not be extinguished until every aberrant in Sancutary has been incinerated in it. To this end, they have already thrown a pregnant woman into the blaze, reportedly one of those thought to be carrying an abberant baby.

Rumours spread of a Watch Private engaging in a heated argument with Councillor Mehnia in the streets of Old Sanctuary. The private, later identified as Private Hammersmith, was passionately declaring his intent to keep Old Sanctuary free from tyranny, while the Councillor Mehnia dismissed the Private as being a foolish rebel sympathizer who didn't know his place.

Shockingly, at the height of the altercation, the Private ran the Councillor through with his sword, spilling his life-blood onto the stones. He then turned himself in for trial, where he was sentenced to death by stoning for the murder.

At the stoning, the gathered citizens were sombre, with many reluctant to toss their rocks at the accused...

Rumours spread like wildfire through Lower of an off duty Old Sanctuary Sergeant brutally murdering and robbing a local Crone employee deep beneath the city.

Many say the local man was trying to save the city from the horrible spectres haunting the outer quarters when he was mercilessly cut down in cold blood.

Most feel that this was the regime of Old Sanctuary's attempt at thwarting the efforts to save the district, in hopes of keeping them in peril at the hands of the terrible undead.

Rumours swirl all over the city, after two explosions rocked the Society Chapterhouse and Temple of Tyr earlier in the day.

People in Lower speak of a rogue Ordinant mage called Drilacko and a Temple representative called Redpath laying waste to the Pissing Crone Inn, destroying and looting the premises, and assaulting anyone who crossed their paths. They say that it began when the mad mage demanded that Cyrus Doors come with them or die. They accused him of hiding women beneath his Inn, and the confused Cyrus bravely stood up to the madmen, refusing to bend to their wishes. At this point, they began attacking everyone in sight, causing severe damage to the property. Then, with all of the patrons on the ground, writhing in pain and bleeding, they ransacked the location, looting it dry before finally being chased out by a brave group of merceneries who had been drinking there at the time.

They also speak of the bravery of the local people in fighting back immediately, a courageous man named Van, and a heroic, charming halforc named Timothy even giving their lives to protect the freedom of Lower during a daring raid on the Temple of Tyr. They claim that under Winston's guidance, the brave patriots struck back in kind, doing considerable damage to both the Temple and Chapterhouse of New Dunwarren. Later, many claimed to have seen Winston speaking with the mage, trying to convince him to find salvation from the madness that envelopes him. Winston's kindness and forgiveness new no bounds, as he was seen to personally escort the Ordinant back home through the dangerous streets under a promise that the violence would end.

-----

Rumours spread forth from New Dunwarren, of a cowardly attack on their sacred temple and the Society Chapterhouse, during which one brave Temple guardsman was slain in a bomb blast. The word going around is that the attack was the work of illithid thralls residing in Lower Sanctuary, as response to an Ordinant's request that Cyrus Doors open his establishment to investigation of enthrallment. Rumors spread that the barkeep fled from the brave New Dunwarrensmen in terror at this prospect, and a great battle erupted - after which, only the brave Ordinant Kanaut and Geraint Redpath emerged victorious.

Following this, the suspected thralls laid a cowardly attack on the temple and chapterhouse, and it is by the good grace of an unknown female who came from Lower to warn them, that more innocents were not killed, and the bombers slain where they stood before more damage could be done.

Many locals report seeing a triumphant Ordinant Kanaut return much later, with the half-orc Winston in chains behind him, simpering and pleading for forgiveness.

*word gets around upper sanctuary that a murder happened in plain view at the side of the town hall. the normal patrolling watchmen were nowhere to be seen from the site of the murder, though Sgt. Blackbeard arrived moments later. The man was identified by his first name, Jerome, by a citizen who was unable to prevent or intervene*

Angry talk abounds in Lower about a large force of armed Stoutheart dwarves descending into Lower Sanctuary, seemingly led by an unknown Watchmen. Wild rumours fly about their intentions, but the rued outcome was made all too poignantly clear to the denizens of Lower: a dozen dead gang members and armed commoners, and a trail of blood leading back up to the nearby stairs.

Citizens in Lower and the Mycopolis talk with a mixture of wonder, hatred, awe and fear about a largescale battle between a red-and-gold clad group of mercenaries led by a seemingly invincible Watchman and various criminals, including those known to have bounties on their heads. Rumours abound, some lamenting that the Watch is going on a rampage, and yet others in Upper speak joyfully of the maurauding Watchman and his men as they purged the criminals from the streets.

The barbarian warriors of the Cave Worm Clan have barred the Watch from their lands, along with the red-and-gold clad mercanaries. They speakfully scornfully of the unasked-for interruption of the peace of Mycopolis, offering dire warning for any that would dare imperil it again.

Words stay fresh on the tongues of citizens about a small army of undead attacking the Lower Sanctuary gate and Ordinant Drilacko Kanaut simultaneously assualting the Upper Sanctuary gate on his own. Some are genuinely concerned about Kanaut's seemingly mad ravings and rantings about Illithid agents and spies infiltrating every sector of government, but most are simply satisfied with the public execution that took place in front of the Town Hall.

Rumors spread about Sanctuary how a one-armed man calling himself Leslie "Ubel" managed to take out the Ledskir menace with only a small force. His name is celebrated in the streets of Lower, and men in the color of the Dirty Nancies begin to appear slowly, making their way to the old gambling hall.

Rumors spread in Lower Sanctuary of a strange gathering of druids within Mycopolis. It is not generally known what was discussed, or decided.

Rumor goes round of Azzam publically snapping the neck of a Duergar slaver, and leaving its corpse to rot on the Town Hall steps. Before it was executed, the beast ranted madly -- including demands for the presence of one Pepto.

Words are whispered about the Councilor's involvement with the Duergar.

With Sergeant Valaron Sunellar presenting the case, Azzam judged the trial of Councilor Ayumi. She was executed for endangerment, after copies of a bill were passed out; the bill, signed by councilors Ayumi, Yhaunn and Fizzwiggle, was to give the council the power to put in place, and remove, a mayor at their choosing. The Banite spoke of how Azzam had recently abused his authority - dismissing a trial after former councilor Hosfyrd Reev was arrested for, admittedly forcibly, preventing her and councilor Yhaunn from aiding a Drow that very same day, among other things. Adelia Tyrell is said to have cast stones with Sanctuary, as well as having been approached by the councilors earlier for the position of their unlawful mayorship.

A number of citizens are worried about this turn of events, and with Yhaunn on the run, fear that the council will be dissolved and their voices dismissed. Others look forward to the new elections and mean to do as the Sheriff instructed: elect people with the interests of Sanctuary in mind! And still a few, mostly among those close to the Watch, are simply content with their security and their jobs.

Frightened and angry residents of Lower Sanctuary speak in outrage about a group of rampaging druids and their pet beasts, who reportedly went through Lower snarling and killing at whim until they were confronted by two brave men; one notably fat, and the other a mighty warrior-axeman. In defense of the locals, they were said to have stood against the stampede. Despite the impressive bladesmanship shown by them, the rotund man in particular, in the end they succumbed to the onslaught of chittering spiders and massive beetles. A gnome was rumoured to have led another sully against them and finally sent them to their death or, in the case of a lucky few, to hiding.

Accusations abound in Lower that the wild people of Mycopolis are becoming much more savage and a certain few speak of them now turning to hunting Lower citizens for sport...

Kythorn 24th, 1374 -- The gates of Sanctuary are rocked by assaulting creatures. Some say the creatures were the drow seeking more slaves, others insisting it was actually Lizardfolk, bent on revenge for the ravages suffered during the earlier war. Most tales however recount strange ant-like beings - able the scale the Sanctuary walls with relative ease, chittering to eachother in eerie silence. Few casualties and a swift end to the attack leave many of the commoners at ease, few worrying much. Several celebrate the defense of the gates, and applaud the Sheriff and his Lieutenants publically.

First of Flamerule, 1374 -- What was once reported as simply a few isolated 'large ants' seen along the Low Road and the abandoned mines area, has now blossomed into a myriad of reports from travellers that trade, adventure, and explore the surrounding areas. Feverish gossips and gadabouts even recall seeing groups as large as 20 Formians patrolling the area, a few even getting as close as Bunge's camp to survey Sanctuary's defenses.

Even stranger yet, a high-pitched choir of voices is heard below the old Tigereye Fortress. Some say the voices are a message from Frederick Bresley, calling us to find The Way to Salvation, others insisting that they are the shrieking cries of the Chosen, preparing for their worst assault yet upon Sanctuary.

The citizens of Sanctuary grow uneasy, tense, and are reminded of the atrocities faced only a short time ago during the Lizardman attacks.

Fourth of Flamerule - 1374 -- The strange noises beneath the Red Skull Fortress have ceased. If asked, most Red Skulls would say we were not ready to hear the voice of Frederick, and thusly he has stopped speaking to us. Other more paranoid citizens of Lower Sanctuary, as per usual, blame the anamoly on Spellguard witches and devils, attempting to overthrow the current freedoms Lower Sanctuary enjoys.

Still yet, there is more gossip about the Formians. They have not been seen the last day at all around Sanctuary, and instead - according to many travellers, have been making their way towards the Shadow Tribe encampment on Sslal'teesh...

The buzz around town is of the latest election resulting in the tightest race in recent history. The announced results, with votes, is posted up at town hall

Nitkovich - 131 Longhand - 130 Hoaradin - 120 Crowshire - 116 Rusk - 115

Fizzwiggle- 114 Sparklegem - 112 Elrithilia - 109 Tasinth - 77 Goldthread - 51 Moondown - 51 Simmien - 50 K'Talka - 4

5th of Flamerule, 1374 -- Word reaches Sanctuary via Shadow Tribe Kobolds of an enormous battle, and a huge creature that laid siege to their gates at Sslal'teesh. The feverish kobolds tell of a battle between the Great Shadow Death, and an undead giant, wreathed in flames that had hundreds of formian minions protecting it. The kobolds insist that despite Sslal'teesh being largely in ruins, the giant was held off and defeated by the Great Shadow Death.

Word spreads rapidly throughout Lower Sanctuary of a Watch led invasionary force entering, and slaying several local, unarmed inhabitants. The bodies were then grabbed, and dragged up the lift to New Dunwarren.

The stories all tell of a gnome and icy cold female elf leading the sortie, and of a Society man also being involved. Tensions run high throughout the district.

Flamerule 6th- 152

Rumours fly around the city about an assault on New Dunwarren made by a group of Lower militants. All stories confirm that the militants slaughtered a good number of New Dunwarren citizens during their raid, which is widely believed to be a response to the Watch incursion earlier that dark.

In Lower, the common people can be seen nodding their heads in support amidst clamours of "Eye for an eye, tic for a tac! They deserved it" and similar sentiments.

In all other areas of the city, the news is received with widespread condemnation and outcry. The people from Old Sanctuary and New Dunwarren alike speak out against the attack as a brazen, unlawful and bloodthirsty attack made by Lower thieves and cutthroats.

All rumours recant that a Seeker participated in the attack, allied with the Lower militants.

Both sides of the story also confirm the participation of the outlaw ex-Councilor, Aledrec Yhaunn. Witnesses in New Dunwarren claim he slew Stanislaw Lem, the leader of the Tyrran Church. Pursued by reinforcements led by the gallant Councilor Haldor Longhand, they say Yhaunn descended into Lower and turned on his pursuers, slaying them brutally and hacking off heads. The reaction of the Lower citizens to this is a mixture of mistrust, fear and, in some of the patriots, public regard and support.

7th of Flamerule, 1374 -- According to reports, Formians are seen within the old duergar mines near Sanctuary, and along the Low Road, ambushing any and all travellers that pass in large numbers. The numbers of the enemy formians recounted are higher than ever, and few return alive to Sanctuary to tell their tales. Huge, ash-caked boot prints are said to be found as well...

7th of Flamerule, 1374 -- Only hours after hearing reports of Formians closing in upon the city, Lower Sanctuary is rocked by tunneling masses of the ant-like creatures. Many stories recall at least 30 falling instantly to the brutal assault, as the heroes of Lower Sanctuary rushed to defend their homes from the invading mob. Nancies, Cave Worms, Seekers, even Spellguard were sighted -- united in their defense of Sanctuary. After holding off the first wave, Gaeseric was seen making an invigorating speech, leading the allied forces of Lower Sanctuary off to face the last push of Formians that threatened to move in on the Mycopolis Gates.

Afterwards, word spreads of an enormous feast held by the Cave Worm Barbarians.

Though the people of Lower remain optimistic, there was no sign of the alleged leader of these creatures...

7th of Flamerule, 1374 - Formians along with their undead master, Zovaldar, at long last reach the gates of Sanctuary. The ant-creatures meet hostile opposition, and fierce combat from newly assembled Spellguard Animatrons, which are praised by many for saving several lives in the line of duty. Lt. Delorme is heard to have perished, as he bravely charged the enormous undead fire giant, cut into two peices almost immedietly, and set ablaze in a sickening display of power.

The battle would rage on, until a strange spirit was summoned forth, that seemed to strike panic into Zovaldar and his minions.

As the battle ended, the citizenry is heard praising the Spellguard for their defense at the gates, along with the Watch for standing united together as the city's fate seemed to edge closer and closer to the brink of oblivion.

--

Several hours later a voice was heard over the public announcement system proclaiming Zovaldar had been slain in his tomb. Citizens apprehensively come out from their homes, and spend the rest of the day relaxing, and enjoying as much food and drink as can be afforded by the common man.

10th of Flamerule, 1374 -- After the lengthy trial of the wanted Nancy Gang Leader, Crocodile, citizens gathered to eagerly toss stones at one of the leaders of the New Dunwarren slaughter. Midway through the stoning another Nancy burst upon the scene, drinking several potions and concealing himself in magics, trying to break his gang leader free - but was quickly subdued by the mob. Afterwards, as ordered by Councilor Fizzwiggle, both heads of the accused are piked up at the gates in-between Upper and Lower...

Late on the 11th of Flamerule, a public trial of the Spellguard Agent Hector Best is held, with councilors Delorin, Nikitovich and Rusk presiding in a tribunal off the bat.

After he confessed to an arrangement with illithid (for an opportunity to better understand the all-important Machine), Delorin and Rusk judged Best guilty of endangerment, and sentenced him to probation of Spellguard duties and a 1,000 gold coin fine, under the penalty of death should he further break the law.

Hoaradin Delorin later announced that he was stripped of councilorship, and Varlam Nikitovich followed announcing a prior arrangement between Best and the Kossuthan for a fixed sentence, which would have set a dangerous and corrupt precedent.

On the 13th of Flamerule, the festivities of Nestar's Tale-telling competition are interrupted by a capital trial. Seeker Harold Hatnine is executed by stoning, for murdering two apparent devil-worshippers who were supposedly helpless and being brought to the Watch for judgement.

Citizens and Watchmen took sides, either speaking against Councilor Nikitovich's harsh sentence or enthusiastically trying to fulfill the Seeker's chosen means of death.

Flamerule 15, 1374 -- An army of chosen numbering in the hundreds is said to have ascended from the stairway below Barak-Tor. Watchmen, Citizens, Adventurers-alike were seen rushing to the area, in a desperate battle to push back the Chosen advance. After a lengthy melee, several balls of flame were tossed at the stairwell, breaking the structure, and cracking the stairwell nearly to shambles.

With the advance slowed, Watchmen were seen placing several barrels of alchemists fire at the entry, eradicating the stairwell, and sending several Chosen to a screaching death.

Word spreads that the Red Skulls held a very public ceremony in which one of their number supposedly ascended to paradise. Although reports are mixed, onlookers report seeing the woman being offered a chalice by a mysterious, silent man in robes. She drank the chalice, spoke of the paradise that she began to see, and then writhed and screamed in terrible pain, before plunging a dagger into her belly and bleeding out. Onlookers do report that immediately when she died, the whole complex was bathed with beautiful celestial light, and a great glowing beam as if from the heavens themselves seemed to spirit the soul of the dead woman away.

The crowd was loud and exuberant, with many declaring the Red Skulls as corrupt and heretics with others praising them and what they do.

Flamerule 17, 1374 -- A sending is heard from a Watch Private, delcaring Aledrec of Yhaunn captured and dead. Sheriff Azzam is seen later, making a speech and parading the man that single-handedly defeated him, Harlow Penrose, around town before making a speech applauding his bravery and condemning Yhaunn's traitorous actions.

The corpse roasted within the stoning cage, a Private is seen piking his head at the gates in-between Upper and Lower afterwards...

According to rumor, an army of raving Garagos-chanting warriors stormed the School of War in Upper and blew it to pieces with explosives. In the process of making their way back to Lower, several Watchmen and citizens were supposedly slain, including Lieutenant Mohave.

The Red Skull cult is growing increasingly visible in Lower Sanctuary, with reports of an increasing number of "ascension rituals" in which the participants are said to ascend to the heavens, but appear to the casual watcher to simply drink a poisoned elixir and die in horrible anguish while surrounded by pretty lights. Opinions are divided among the citizens of Lower as to the presence of this mysterious religious following within their ward.

Rumors quickly spread from Old Sanctuary that a small band of duergar attacked the Old Sanctuary gates. Word has it that during the fight they stole a Spellguard Animatron before disappearing back into the dark. There were no casualties on either side.

Mycopolans begin to chatter about Boris the Wandering Druid and the herd of rothe he oversaw. Word has it that a small band of duergar came and kidnapped Boris and many of the rothe.

Word spreads about Upper Sanctuary of serveral vacant properties in the residential district recently being purchased up at a rapid rate. A portly gentleman with a large red mustache, and a goofy hat can often be seen inspecting the properties, and shaking hands with other equally obese business owners. The name Macasta is tossed around, though many wealthy gossips and gadabouts claim it to be none other than the estranged son of former Mayor Bhast. Some believe it to be the bastard child of Victor Hastian, others insisting he is secretly a Red Skull Cultist.

Numerous adventurers in the local taverns mention that they'd been waylaid by a mysterous human priest in the nearby Underdark; most have been able to carry on unharmed or even blessed by Beshaba, but today the first morally-upright encounter has resulted in loss of limb. The victims made their way into the Watch House to make a report...

Adventurers, scouts, travelers and wanderers who have ventured into the Underdark report a greater presence of duergar in the area surrounding Sanctuary. Some report scouting parties, while others report ambush operations for slave capture.

Eleasis 13, 1374 D.R. -- Stories travel through gossip circles in the residential district about a prominent, wealthy family being ravaged by a rare and exotic disease. Many locals have sealed their doors up tightly, and refuse to even leave their homes. Watchmen are hesitant to patrol the Residential area, telling stories of large red beasts with infectious touches seen prowling between shifts.

The Red Skull controversy continues to rage throughout Lower, with Red Skull cultists preaching that Sanctuary will turn distinctly more hellish if people do not take advantage of a final chance to ascend to paradise through a mass-ritual. A solid majority of Lower citizens appear to support the Seekers in condemning the cultists, and some citizens are even said to have abandoned their skull masks and robes due to Seeker persuasion efforts.

People in Lower whisper of the Red Skull mass ritual. Apparently a large number of people drank the elixir and died in terrible pain (or ascended, depending upon what you believe) moments before a battle broke out between some of the cultists and some adventurers from Upper. It is also said that the piled glowing red skulls came to life to defend the fortress against the invaders.

Some have been saying that it was all an elaborate Cyricist plot led by Ghail and Reduskan the curio shop owner, but details are scarce.

Rumor quickly spreads that Councilor Pepto Fizzlewiggle collapsed and died in the Grumbar Shrine. There's whispers of a secretive guild of assassins who's initiation requires them to assassinate a councilor. Rumor has it that the ranks of these assassins have swelled this term. Many dismiss this out of hand, and instead talk about Pepto's time as a slave in the gem mines of the drow. How it's likely slavery shortened the life of this brave gnome considerably. Still, throngs gathered to pay their respects and the people anxiously await a funeral service the equal of Varlam Nikitovitch's.

Word spreads rapidly about town that a rotten, putrid, shambling deep lizard laid siege to the town's gates, slaying two Watch privates and utterly trashing one of the Spellguard Defender animatrons. Lt Delorme bravely laid the lizard to waste, preventing it from entering the city proper

Yesterday, the widow of merchant James Falkland made a poor attempt at speech-making in Town Hall, announcing her candidacy and support for the Watch; while the few citizens that did turn out have no doubt that she truly supports the Watch, they reveal no faith in her ability to lead after the loss of her husband.

After carefully and almost ceremoniously removing the "Vote Wyric" banner near the Hold, a lean, pale, and hairless teenager has begun meditating in the Office of the Herald; those who are patient enough might hear him say, "Sanctuary can be Sanctuary again: vote Grigorovich."

Finally, a woman called for help reclaiming her inheritence from the desecrated crypts of the Temple of Hoar; she later made vows to see that, from a council seat, she could repay the brave adventurers by seeing to justice and fair representation.

A huge explosion rocked the mausoleum today. Massive crowds gathered to watch Spellguard Animatrons battle the blazes. Thankfully the explosion caused more smoke and fire then damage to the venerable structure and the mausoleum will be opened once again. Many are left asking what sort of sick mind would attempt to destroy the place where Sanctuary houses its dead?

A dirty, half naked older man in rags has been seen by many stumbling around upper and lower muttering to himself, and always holding a small, common smooth stone tenderly in his hands

People have only ever seen him talking to this stone, and when he does, all he ever says is "My Orb will show me things...all things...I can see them all in my Orb"

The Eleint Council was announced following a request by the Sheriff to shorten the council term; the results were as follows...

Valaron Sunellar, 191 votes Wyric Crowshire, 161 votes William Donrick, 140 votes Nina Sikara, 136 votes Leonard Merrickson, 121 votes -------------------- Jacelyn Cleft, 118 votes Vyrana Tasinth, 85 votes Jano Grigorovich, 65 votes Ambrose Letarian, 64 votes Sophia van Durin, 58 votes Jessica Falkland, 17 votes

Word flows from the Mycopolis that Gaeseric and his companion Gundahar have departed from the Lower Gates, after speaking to a hunched gnome figure. They leave with the promise of bringing back many deep lizard corpses, which will feed the Mycopolis for many months.

Word spreads throughout Sanctuary of the quiet and unexpected annihilation of Mycopolis, and the replacement of its previous occupants with a great number of goblins. Tension in Lower Sanctuary is high, and some are concerned that the tribe of goblins might turn their attention on them.

Eleint 22nd, 152.

The Shrine of the Ascension is rocked by an explosion. The furniture in the main room is mostly destroyed and several Ascensionists die -- those that do not are badly wounded.

Eleint 23rd, 152.

Another explosion, significantly smaller than the one that struck the the Shrine of the Ascension, strikes the Temple of Hoar. There are no known casualties, and the interior is mostly intact.

Eleint 24, 1374 -- The streets of Lower are run red with drow blood, as a man with a strange skeletal arm is seen dragging a naked, writhing and nearly dead drow woman outside of the Crone. Commoners gather and cheer for her death, as it is explained that this drow was responsible for the many recent bombings in Lower. After a dirge is played for her death, the drow is supposedly burned alive. The screams please many, and after the roast is over, folks go back to their business as usual.

Eleint 28, Year 152 -- Sheriff Azzam seems more tied up than usual with his paperwork, and according to rumors, a new lady-friend. Stories tell of him shutting himself in his enormous office atop the Watch House with a lusky-skinned, full-figured Bedine woman, and not coming down for several hours each day. His mood seems elated, and it's clear he is not observing the Council as carefully as he had been in the past.

Some say they hear the woman barking out orders at Azrus, and him following her around like an obedient lost puppy in love, regardless. The public seems mostly amused by these stories, and the gossip flies rapidly through the elite, well-to-do social circles all the way down to the lowly drunken beggars in Lower.

3rd of Marpenoth, 1374 D.R. - Lots of construction noise is heard outside of the Donrick Estate. Dust and soot covered gnomes are seen making their way in and out of the estate with great frequency. Some citizens claim to see several mercenaries wearing matching tunics and breastplates making their way inside the building as well...

Marpenoth 8th, 152.

A large group of people, comprising as many from Old Sanctuary as from Lower, lead an assault on the Slugcrawl tribe in Mycopolis. The goblins, who had had plenty of time to prepare for the coming battle, put up a great fight, but were eventually overpowered by the persistent citizens of Sanctuary. The Canal Ward now flows with blood of man and goblin alike, patiently awaiting whatever fate is destined for it this time around.

In the chaos, nobody seemed to notice that the head of the supposed leader of the Slugcrawl goblins was no longer full of implants.

Rumor spreads throughout upper of a terrible blow struck against the man Aleczumberzeil. One of his closest supporters, a Seeker, was stoned. Many fear the reprisals from lower Sanctuary, and the Seekers. Some seedier folks begin to place bets on which councilor will be killed next.

Rumor spreads throughout Lower Sanctuary that the tyrants in the Watch and Council are using a stupid law to round them up and execute them. They mutter that if they so much as whisper to a goblin, kobold, or wanted criminal they may be hunted down by the Watch and put in the cage. Loud tears and sobs can be heard from the Seekers as they mourn the loss of a beloved member. Whispers and speculation about what they will do in response to the execution of Seeker Lysik drift about Lower Sanctuary.

Sanctuarians regard the body of Pearce Danielson mostly with apathy; few remember his father, and those who do gossip about how ashamed they think Bill would have been to have a rebel for a son.

Lowerites have a far more mixed reaction; some have sense enough to know he was suicidal for attacking the Watch the way he did, while gangsters are glad a potential rival is gone. Ascension cultists begin work on a new sermon about the obstacles they face in the Ascension.

Whispers that the Watch and Spellguard are preparing to invade Lower Sactuary fly about Upper and Lower Sanctuary.

Spellguard Animatrons are seen being pulled in from remote sections of Dunwarren, and Watchman are sometimes seen sharpening their swords, and talking in hushed whispers. Gate security is checked, and re-checked. Bundles of supplies are stockpiled and sent to New Dunwarren, and the Upper Gate. The supplies come mostly marked with the seal of rich families like Lavenza, and Donrick, and the Trading House of Macasta. Engineers are seen tinkering with the New Dunwarren Lift. Rampant speculation abounds and many people whisper that the entire operation is far too secretive. Others place their trust in the proper authorities and say loudly that this has been the most secure council term in years. "Only one death!" they shout.

Lower Sanctuary thugs can be seen sharpening their own swords, or hiding their swords away for future use. Some even whisper that after a year of anarchy it might be okay to have a bit of a Watch presence. These people are generally shunned. "Remember Lysik? Remember Danielson? I hated that Danielson's father like the no good scab he was. Yet his son was alright -- they still had no right to kill him in his cell with no trial!"

Marpenoth 15th 152

Word spreads like wildfire around the Sanctuary Below that the hero of the Canal Ward, Aurin Guerini, was attacked by a Watchman without any provocation. It is said that the brave Aurin smote the Watchman down, before disappearing into parts unknown. The Watchman is widely rumored to be the son of Sheriff Dhogur, come to extract a terrible revenge upon the people of Lower. While Guerini is nowhere to be seen, there are whispers in the darker corners of Lower that he is soon to return, along with Monty Ubel and his men to defeat The Watch for good.

Marpenoth 16, 152, 1374 D.R.

Rumors fly around Upper Sanctuary about several altercations between men garbed in purple and red claiming to work for Belo Macasta, and black-clad mercenaries claiming to work for Roland Donrick. Whispers travels from the richest of the Residential District to the poorest in the Canal Ward about a fued that was long overdue to erupt, finally beginning to show its true colors.

Marpenoth 19th 152

The Sanctuary Below seethes with discontent. Amidst rumors of an invasion from above, gangs of armed men walk the streets, angry mobs threaten to lynch Uppersmen who dare the long walk below. Banners long left to rot in the wind are flown anew, and names which have remained long forgotten are upon the lips of all men in the Lower Ward. Lacking anything like leadership as of yet, pockets of men make any chance of resistance useless, yet still make the ward incredibly dangerous to the wrong sort of folk.

Marpenoth 19, Year 152

Many dwellers of Lower Sanctuary witness a heated argument between Harrison and his blacksmith apprentice, Gnorring Anvilkine. People are unsure what the argument was about, but it was clear it involved the Macasta family and that Harrison accused Anvilkine of being a traitor of Lower Sanctuary. It is commonly thought that the two will no longer be working together.

Marpenoth 21, Year 152

The famous Frankie's Angel and advocate of peace, Winston, made a speech to a crowd of poor in the Lower Sanctuary Marketplace. In it he praised Harrison for his loyalty to Lower for rejecting a high-price contract from the Macasta family. He then cried out against Gnorring Anvilkine, who accepted the Macasta contract and allegedly works out of greed. Winston notably called Macasta the "new Bhast" and encouraged all people to boycott Anvilkine steel therefore not support the Macasta Mercantile efforts in the Canal Ward.

Winston also addressed rumors of a Watch/Spellguard invasion of Lower, mentioning that Macasta's efforts in the Canal Ward are indications that rumor may be reality. He concluded his speech with the following: "Treat every day as if it was your last, for in no time the Watch and the Spellguard -- who we know are slavers and liars -- will come down those steps and declare martial law."

Many people of Lower Sanctuary honor the boycott against Gnorring Anvilkine and buzz about a Watch/Spellguard invasion is amplified.

Rumor spreads of a gray woman, perhaps a half-drow or some other exotic breed, coming up from Lower and exploding herself at the gates. Several Watchmen are said to have been burned, and the gates damaged.

Several workmen can be seen pounding on the gates, while patrolling Watchmen mumble bitterly about the largely insane Lower populace.

A massive explosion rocked the Spellguard Tower, causing smoke to flood the area. A short, bearded man was seen leaving just afterwards, muttering to himself about Lord Archibald.

Shortly following the explosion, a massive brawl occurred at the In-Between. Several Lowersmen were subdued and captured.

William Pearce Danielson's body, the alleged instigator of the incident, is no longer piked at the In-Between.

Marpenoth 22nd, 152.

Whispered rumours surrounding the trial of Aurin Guerini begin to surface, and commoners start to worry that Wyric Crowshire is actively trying to undermine the efforts of the Watch and the Spellguard by letting hardened criminals walk.

Marpenoth 23rd, Year 152.

Some dwellers of Lower Sanctuary wonder about where the members of a children's gang, the Sugar Sweets, disappeared off to. One witness claims to have seen three bald figures luring the children away with promises of cigars and playtime. Another witness claims that an upcoming drow movement kidnapped the children as hostage leverage on the city. Even another witness claims that many of the children were killed in a heist and the remaining members went off in hiding.

Marpenoth 28th, 152.

After days of rumours about an impending Upper invasion of Lower Sanctuary, The Watch and Spellguard finally move on the Canal District. They are generally welcomed by the people who had already settled in the Canal District, although explosives planted by a few fanatic Lowerites cause the deaths of about a dozen civilians. The Watch is now spread thin between the occupation of the Canal District and maintaining order in Old Sanctuary.

The results of the latest election are announced to a less than impressive crowd at town hall.

Donrick - 211 Cheval - 193 Deepingdale - 130 Wyric - 113 Aeran - 113

-------

Fireheart - 111 Redd - 98 Sikara - 91 Barer - 77 Jano - 75 Grey - 74 Vincent - 46

Uktar 2, Year 152

Members of the Frankie's Angels gang are seen dragging the dead corpses of children away from an abandoned warehouse on the southeastern part of Lower Sanctuary. Leader of the Frankie's Angels, Winston of The Beacon, seems very displeased.

Uktar 3rd, 152.

A handful of Watchmen and a few artisans led by a gnome with a magnificent moustache and a complementing hat are seen entering the Town Hall several times, each time leaving with books; bookshelves; cabinets; extravagant chairs; desks; beds; or candelabras. One time, one of the Watchmen, clearly wounded, is carried out as well, and nothing further happens for another hour until a halfling is seen leaving with a satisfied look on his face. Lucibella Matterheim then visits the Town Hall for a short while, then desks and chairs are moved from her shop to the Town Hall.

Many unemployed civillians comment on the commotion, wondering what and why. Other civillians remark on the sorry state the town apepars to be in, what with garbage and debris everywhere.

Uktar 8, Year 152, 1374

No one in the Canal Ward sleeps comfortably. Doors are locked and barred shut for the most part. Many are cursing the name Westmore openly, in fear of a surprise Dark Fey attack, ambush, or kidnapping. Everyone, particularly those with children, seems on edge and unwilling to speak in the streets. Children complain about overbearing parents, the drunks complain about the Siren shutting down early.

Strange noises and creatures are seen poking around the darkest corners and alleys of the Canal Ward in the past day...

--

Further along in the day, a few Dark Fey are found skulking around and are easily subdued by the patrolling animatrons and Watchmen. The Watch are seen going from door to door and calming nervous citizens, assuring them that they will all be fine. The mood remains mixed in the Canal afterwards, roughly half of the populace supporting an attack, the other half nervous and scared still.

Uktar 11th 1374 DR

A large, steady stream of slaves begin to filter into Sanctuary in small groups. They speak of great strife in Ysinode- of the dreaded Beholders descending upon the City in untold numbers, of Undead rising from the bowels, lead by a terrifying General with a flaming sword. Reports are garbled, there looks to be little real concrete reports of what occurred at the dread City. However- by all accounts, something is shared in common from the accounts of all those freed, though they know not what they speak of. Every man, every woman and every child freed each whisper with reverence one word- "Scholar."

Uktar 13 - Year 152 - 1374 DR

A strange black cloud gathers atop the Donrick Estate. Many gossip and wonder what could cause the disturbance. Spellguard Agents are seen shuffling in and out, murmering to eachother with mild concern. Roland Donrick appears now and then, assuring that all is fine within his estate and that the party scheduled for the next day will go on with no problems whatsoever.

Uktar 13, Year 152, 1374 DR

Watch Privates are seen missing from their shifts in the Canal Ward. Many do not report in to their Corporals, and morale in the area seems gloomy. Many complain about the terrible post they have to endure, and question why others, like Timmons are posted in a zero risk area and paid like kings.

The Private's that have families seem to be the most vocally distraught.

Among the gossip heard:

"Who's ass do I have to kiss to get Sergeant Timmon's post?"

"Way I hear it, you promise to keep your lips sealed about Azzam's new whore he puts you up in any post you want."

"You see how much that piglet in the bazaar eats? No way he's living off the same paycheck we are."

"You know why we were sent down here? Azzam wants us to die. Ain't no criminals in Upper, shit we don't even have a gate to keep us safe."

"Have you ever even SEEN our commanding officer in the area? Hell no, he's up sucking Azzam's $%#$ in Upper where all the others with half a brain are."

"Did you hear? Lothor surrendered our god damned post, that we earned with our blood and sweat to WINSTON and his cronies. Who's side is Lothor on anyways?"

Officers complain about having to work overtime and not being paid for it to keep morale at decent levels.

Uktar 15, Year 152, 1374

Rumors spread of a terrible accident at the Donrick gathering, many deaths, and a terrible explosion rocking the Residential District.

--

A drow is dragged through the streets of Sanctuary, allegedly captured in the Pissing Crone itself by a mob of ten or more dark clad figures, and executed in the Town Hall. Privates complain about the huge mess this makes, and groan about spending hours mopping up the blood.

Uktar 15, Year 152, 1374 DR

Rumors of a terrible murder begin to surface in the Canal Ward. Prostitutes turn up missing, or dead left and right, especially those recently hired by the Watch.

Many believe the Dark Fey to be responsible, but others speak of an obese strangler, snapping the necks of these whores, similar to Azzam's public killings outside the Town Hall.

Many of the regulars that were recently hired to serve the Watch begin to skip on their duties, out of fear for their lives.

Uktar 16, Year 152

On this day, blacksmith and employee of Belo Macasta, Gnorring Anvilkine, erected a new gate to protect the Canal Ward as ordered by the Town Council. Citizens of the Canal Ward speak favorably of the blacksmith and the Council, although some skeptics note the mundane quality of the gate.

Rumor spreads like wildfire of a fearsome, halfling-sized woman in red-and-black terrorizing Old Sanctuary. Some rumors say that she comes on wings of death, snatching away little children to feast on their flesh and blood. The most reliable tales, however, recount the successful mugging of Councilor Deepingale in the marketplace, amidst watchmen and other armed men. People begin to fear, and lose faith in the effectiveness of the Watch in protecting them from those faceless foes in Lower Sanctuary.

Uktar 19, Year 152

In the taverns, adventurers quietly gossip about disturbances with the Chosen. Allegedly, the Chosen are frantic about closing "the gates." Perhaps the most popular testimony is of a man in the Crone who loudly (and drunkenly) proclaimed he saw the Chosen fighting the spawns of hell who made their way to the material plane through a portal gate.

Uktar 20 - Year 152 - 1374 DR

Upper Sanctuary is bombarded by Chosen attacks that last for several hours. Flying figures shriek and wail from the land above, plucking up citizens from the streets, only to see them fall and splatter onto the rock below.

The Watch and Spellguard finally mobilize to the scene, many tell stories of Officer Barkely himself getting involved in the massive melee that would ensue in the streets.

With Sheriff Azzam nowhere to be found, many tell tales of Lieutenant Lothor's bravery, watching him almost single-handedly eviscerating a terrifying Chosen Warleader.

After calling forth several animatrons, Spellguard Agents, and Watchmen, and after two long bloody hours of pure mayhem, the Chosen are defeated.

Former Lieutenant Greer was seen battling a monstrosity, a bloated and enormous flying chosen figure, only to be carried off in flight by it, battling and struggling it down into the gorge between Upper and Lower. No one sees Greer afterwards, and rumors fly about the possibility of the once great Watchman's death.

--

A gloomy speach is given at the Town Hall afterwards by Councilor Aeran, which was not received well by the public at all. Fist fights break out afterwards, Seekers are seen creating chaos and more fights, and the general mood is a somber one, until Lieutenant Lothor took the podium, preaching strength, unity, and victory against the Chosen.

The public remains united largely behind raiding the Chosen, a few somber over losing loved ones, but most adamant and trusting in Lothor's guidance.

--

Bloody parchments litter the streets of Sanctuary, dropped by the flying invaders that read:

LOTHOR

DEEPINGDALE

DEDERICH

Within the alleyways and backrooms of Sanctuary it is whispered of a child with extraordinary prophetic gifts. An orphan called only "Knower," it is said that this boy has a way of knowing things that he has no right to.

Rumors spread rapidly that a Spellguard agent summoned an unholy undead knight in the Arena, and was let go by the Watch without so much as a warning. Some people claim that it was a mere illusion easily crushed, while others state it was a horrible undead beast, and others whisper that either way it should be up to the council to decide, and wonder if they've let the Watch go too far in their power. Of course, some say the whole story is bullshit.

Rumour spreads around the entire City that a grim spectre has begun to stalk the streets of Sanctuary, born out of the darkest nightmares of those who see him. Citizens begin to grow afraid to walk the streets alone, with some exclaiming Azzam should bring his Watchmen back from The Canal Ward to protect the Citizens. In the dark corners of the City, mutterings begin that the dead finally have escaped the Mausoleum, and stalk the streets looking to exact a terrible vengeance upon those who have kept them locked below for so long.

Nightal 9th, 152.

Many people attend the hanging of a half-drow. As per Councillor Cheval's decree, the half-drow would be released if somebody would and could support him for an hour while his head was in the noose. In total, three humans and a half-orc offered to assist the half-drow. Unfortunately, moments before the hour had passed, the selected person lost his grip and the half-drow's neck snapped. There was some controversy regarding whether the half-drow had been treated fairly, although most -- law enforcers and sympathisers in particular -- agree that the half-drow shouldn't even have had a chance to escape in the first place.

Unseelie are often seen now in the Canal Ward, sneaking past the Watch Defenses, and terrorizing the merchants there. They scream about something stolen from them, and promise swift death to all those of Sanctuary, until what they once had is regained.

The Spellguard announced the deployment of their first Animatron Watcher today, conveyed by the words of Candidate Lecuyer. The Spellguard are claiming that the animatron is designed to assist the Watch in tasks of little or no deductive reasoning, such as providing surveillance to the city of Sanctuary. The general public response has been one of curiosity, albeit uncertainty in the face of this new technology.

Invasion! A flood of angry Unseelie raided the Canal Ward gates. The death toll was high, and for a while they even managed to breach the gates, slaughtering commoners wantonly. Everyone with a citizen stone will remember a strange announcement which was made by the Spellguard - a full-city Lockdown, and a transformation in the city's defense orbs which caused them to rain lightning on almost anyone who came near. This tore through the Unseelie attack, but also did considerable damage to the would-be defenders. Exactly how or when these Defense Orbs were reactivated, few people know.

Many of the defenders are in a rage, having lost friends or made very close scrapes with death from the Unseelie and merciless rain of thunderbolts. Many people are in grief, such as the friends and family of those civilians who died in the Canal Ward as the deathly Fey poured in, raving about their lost treasure.

And yet, as the attack finishes, life goes on. The piles upon piles of Unseelie corpses are thrown into the Canal. The men, women and children among the deceased are quietly buried. With minimal damage to estate, the people of the Canal Ward return home, shaken by the affair. All the while, as parents cling fearfully to their children, and fathers gather meager weaponry to protect their families, the sentiment is clear: something must be done to end this.

The tide of the Unseelie seems to have ebbed. The Canal Ward has gone a full day now with no attacks. Terrible whining howls of pain, agony, and desperation can be heard drifting up from where the Unseelie lair themselves, reminding all that they are still there, waiting, to steal the children of the Canals.

The results of the Hammer elections were announced, and are as follows :

1. Cheval 175 votes 2. Goldbrick 152 votes 3. Redd 130 votes 4. Crowshire 126 votes 5. Dederich 117 votes

-----

6. Faraday 116 votes 7. Dentra 110 votes 7. Lecuyer 110 votes 9. Allegretti 109 votes 10. Rimferrin 52 votes 11. Sikara 50 votes 12. Gregorovich 38 votes 13. Barer 26 votes 14. Softstep 22 votes 15. Falkland 8 votes

All winning candidates that were not present for the ceremony have 2 days to claim office.

A massive spider came in and attacked the Animatrons near the Canal Watch House. It was put down by the Spellguard. Rumors speak of adventurers scooping up its eggs, and squirreling them away -- for what purpose, it is not known. The Unseelie too, have ceased their whaling at the side of the Canal, and for the most part are reclusive, hiding in their chambers and courts.

Word spreads throughout Sanctuary of a slaughter in Lower Sanctuary. The blood of Lower loyalists spills accross the dirty soil, and the name Montezzi seems to be on the tip of everyone's tongue.

Though the slaughter was large, many of the more jaded citizens can be heard grunting with indifference as they slowly drink themselves to death in their filthy homes and inns.

The entirety of Sanctuary today hears rumors of the slaughter of the Hoarans in Lower Sanctuary.

Many Lower people claiming to be eye witnesses speak of the Prince Montezzi having led a large force filled with all manner of sordid man and beast, including duergar, goblins and hobgoblins, shining greatly with magics powerful and terrifying, into the Temple and filing out only minutes later dragging the corpses of the men and women of Hoar - amongst them, an unarmed elderly woman in a bloodied, torn robe- through the streets. Before their fortress this ravenous band staked these corpses, and the Prince was recounted to have been speaking forcefully that this is the Prince's Justice, and that rebels and seditionists everywhere who would oppose his rulership ought to take careful note...

Seconds after this slaughter, the area around the Temple of Hoar was spoken to have rumbled with the force of a wildly powerful, distant anger...

Citizenry in Upper begin to talk more often of this Prince Montezzi, and many debates arise there discussing what the reaction of the Watch, Council and Spellguard should be...

For hours after the the slaughter in the Temple of Hoar, the halls were dead silent. However, a few children and beggars in the area report hearing deep, strange, unnatural sounds from within the temple. Strangely though, the few brave enough to check inside have seen nothing.

Word spreads throughout Lower that a long and drawn out battle took place recently. Rumors speak of a triumphant Prince Montezzi, glowering over his enemies only to be assaulted by an unseen force attacking under the guise of shadows, illusions, and invisibility.

A mob led by Seekers quickly encircled the subdued Prince, though the final blow was said to have been swung by a druidic man with a wooden staff.

The impetus for the battle is said to have been a trial gone awry, a brave soldier of Montezzi, a self-styled 'General' was seen chasing several 'oath-breakers' about Lower only to see his departed enemies return once more to claim a victory after fleeing many times.

"Murder! Murder!" cry the peasants of Lower Sanctuary, standing outside the Shrine of Ascension, which lay partially in ruins after a daring raid performed by the younger Montezzi brother. The 13th of Hammer was a bloody day for Lower Sanctuary indeed, as many would be set upon spikes and killed. No side of the raging conflict below would be safe from murder and death, as each side finally withdrew from a day filled with battle to lick its wounds.

One thing is for certain, the people of Lower expect to see much more violence and blood as the shadow of tyranny and opression under the name Montezzi reigns itself in over their streets.

Word quickly spreads throughout the Lower Wards, and eventually leaks into the Canal and Upper of well-to-do Councilor Jacelyn Cheval being cut down in the middle of the tumultuous streets of Lower.

Nothing is known of the motives or what happened afterwards, but rumors say that it was a single goblin that did the deed, which dragged the fallen Councilor away...

Rumors speak of a tense meeting between Councilor Crowshire, flanked by Watch Privates and the Young Montezzi Brother, similarly flanked by his own heavily magicked guards.

The details of the meeting are fuzzy, though many say it was to discuss the looming threat of War between Upper and Montezzi's Lower..

Hammer 21 Year 153

A great pyre was constructed in the centre of the Sanctuary Below, with the Court of the Montezzi presenting themselves our in number to bury one of their own. A great dirge was sung to mark his passing, with a young girl being hurled on to go with him into the afterlife. A cautious crowd of onlookers gathered to watch the debacle, some looking on with horror, others with morbid curiosity. Rumors circulate that the Montezzis picked her for her comely appearance, and look forward with dread to the death of another Noble of the Court.

Slowly but surely, a flotilla Lowersmen begin to make their way into the Sewers, loudly remarking that The Captain was gentler than the younger brother, or ‘The Flayer’ as they now style him; in part due to the helm which appears transfixed to his head, in part to his renowned brutality. Nevertheless, many remain, too indifferent, too drunk or too elderly to make the journey.

Above, Privates begin to sharpen their swords and glance nervously into the darkness Below.

Some time after the barbaric funeral within the lower wards, a Grand Moot is said to have convened within the Temple of Tyr. Those in attendance ranged from Mithrilsoul Dwarves, to Seekers, to Off-Duty Watchmen.

Throughout the proceedings, various battleplans are said to have been discussed, many strategies proposed and shot down. The meeting proceeded wildly out of order, until a mysterious man burst onto the scene, briefly praising at the least their efforts to organize an assault. To one elderly paladin, the mysterious holy warrior gifted a powerful blade, and vested within him his honor and trust.

Though plans remain sketchy, at best, all are agreed that their newfound hero, Luther Hornraven, shall champion their cause.

Steel clashes on steel in Lower! Word spreads quickly of a large scale assault occuring within the too often blood stained soil of the Lower Ward. A battalion of Dwarves is said to have marched through the Canal, and into Montezzi Streets. Intense battle raged for what seemed to bystanders and warriors alike an eternity, though the clear winner was the Self-Proclaimed Prince and his men.

A dozen prisoners of war entered in the Haunted Montezzi Fortress, yet much less than half of that is said to have walked back out again..

Many plants that once dotted the terrain near Sanctuary have mysteriously gone missing. Some blame hungry kobolds while others insist the lands are cursed-and that some things are simply not meant to grow and flourish in these depths.

Many people in the residential district speak in hushed tones of recent activities in the area. Apparently a wizard whom conducted trade of exotic, expensive reagents and creatures from his home in the area was the subject of some kind of misfortune. Explosions were heard within his home, and it is said a group of adventurers entered to investigate. Some time after the adventrers were seen to have fled, leading out a massive, 10 foot tall beast of most grotesque appearance.

The beast was slain by Spellguard Agents, yet many wonder aloud what really went on in that shop.

Citizens and travelers report hearing a great BOOM from across the Dark Lake, followed several hours later by a thick layer of ash settling on everything near the shore of the lake.

Alturiak 14, Year 153

Word spreads amongst Old Sanctuary of a party lead by Corporal Brinson of the Watch bringing the fight to a raiding party of Gnolls who were headed for the Gates of Sanctuary. Soon after the battle, a small flotilla of adventurers and Watchmen was seen entering the Gates, blooded but victorious.

Panicked rumors speak of a massive ship-eating beast living in the Canal. Locals are anxious about these rumors, and were it that they had even a single skipper, he would probably be too afraid to brave the Canal waters.

The Canal Ward was handed off to the Montezzi gang. Its occupants, disgruntled at the prospect of leaving their homes, yet helpless at the fear of what the Ward might become, packed away and joined the mass exodus into Upper Sanctuary led by members of the Watch. With the great majority of its occupants gone, few merchants have remained for lack of business. Those who have are convinced of many difficult and poverty-stricken days ahead.

The Canal Ward lacks for lighting once more. The Watch and Spellguard, and all their animatrons are gone from the region, as for just about every indication that Upper Sanctuary ever occupied. Clean supplies of water have mysteriously stopped working in the area, and some are even reduced to drinking from the filthy Canal Water. Those few who still remain remark that they have never seen their Canal Ward so dead - and perhaps they are not completely unjustified in their sentiments.

It is said that Prince Montezzi addressed the Canal Ward public shortly after claiming the area. The sparse group of citizens who attended watched with fear as he delivered a speech which reportedly began very well, but crashed and burned toward the end with the discussion of some highly sensitive issues which included infernal forces, blood-drinking, criminals and slaver-races. Many of those who remained already regret not leaving with the first exodus, and there is a powerful fear in the Ward of its newfound dictators.

Members of Old Sanctuary are heard speaking of the upcoming election in The Last Stand, on walks through the residential district, in their homes, and on the streets. Generally, people seem to be worried about the conflicts in Lower Sanctuary, and are hoping for someone to step up for the defensive. Many criticize the current Council for their perceived incompetence, especially highlighting the loss of the Canal Ward. Others are quick to disagree, arguing that provocation of war in the Underdark will only lead to the demise of all.

The people of Upper can be heard remarking to one another about the poor turn out for the Council this term. With only 6 candidates openly known to the people, they murmer their discontent.

Of special note, they are heard complaining that over half the sitting council has not even bothered campaigning, or so much as stating their intent to re-run..

The Canal appears to be in a flurry of activity, as traders from all over start to slowly pour in. People speak of seeing everything from Kuo-Toa, to Drow, to Kobolds. Additionally, it appears as if the remnants of the once large Goblin Town have reclaimed their place within the Southern Alleys...

Those who remained in the Canal, during the Montezzi Takeover appear more on edge than ever, with more than a couple leaving the moment they spotted Drow Sails..

Rumors speak of a pair of hungry looking stone giant hunters coming to the gate, and demanding food for their clan or threatening an attack. After various heated words, the defending adventurers attacked the pair, and what followed was a bloody battle, with one of the giants slaying several and nearly managing to escape with their corpses as food.

News quickly spreads of a pair of men in Seeker uniform attacking and killing a kuo-toan merchant in the Canal Ward. The two men made a hasty retreat, but were betrayed by their own bravery as one of the men was downed and killed by a Duergar sentry.

The merchants and citizens of the Canal Ward are restless, some beginning to question the security of the district.

Rumours and reports fly around the city about a lone drow soldier who descended on the city with terrible violence. He slew men of the Watch and Agents of the Spellguard, howling cries of retribution and making demands for 'those involved in the attack' to be delivered to him. After much blood and death, the drow was finally brought down by Azzam, who took to the field quickly.

Many citizens are left wondering what attack the drow referred to and whether his threats of more death to come will ring true or not if those involved aren't turned over.

Also shaken by the attack, the Canal Ward took a solid hit as the Spellguard's emergency gate defense orbs were activated to Sanctuary's protection. Rumors vary greatly in the actual damage caused, but most agree that at least one Duergar mercenary died under the force of the deadly bolts of lightning, and a number sport severe burns.

Citizens stream into the polls to vote in the elections. Talk varies between support for the Candidates, but all are agreed that it will be a very close election.

The election results were announced today, to a rather full Town Hall, reflecting what Clerk Nurb reported was the highest turnout for voting the City has experieneced.

1. Ambassador Rook 184 2. Senestia Avarscanti 181 3. Paige Madeline Saint173 4. Illario Dentra 170 5. Kainth Iltzayara 162 -------------------------- 6. Edward Raymus 142 7. Sophia Rulgakov140 8. Colin Rhunyorn 80 9. Bolgar Bruteaxe 78 10. Washugao 75 11. Bris Undt74 12. J. Redd 56 13. Lisianne Gray 29 14. Jano Grigorovich22 15. Erik Plainswalker 21 16. GrigoriiMalchenko 1 17. Cadmon Cearney 1 18. Ratkin 0

Due to Councilor Avarscanti being deceased, before the results were even read, Edward Raymus took his seat at the announcements. At this point, Candidate Undt reportedly attacked Clerk Nurb, and was subsequently arrested.

Rumors speak of a band of crusaders from New Dunwarren returning to town at the head of a pack of recently freed men and women, including an impressive looking man named Eumond Hamuramus, Priest of Tyr.

Citizens witnessed a group of Shadow Tribe kobolds enter Sanctuary, headed for the Shadow Tribe's Embassy. With them were Councilors Rook and Kainth. Little is known of what happened inside the Embassy, but less than an hour later, former Shadow Tribe Ambassador Aurelius Natch was seen being dragged out of Sanctuary by shackles. Word has it that a new Shadow Tribe Ambassador has been appointed.

Slowly, Seekers are once more seen regularly in the City. An elderly man is seen coming and going from the Town Hall, speaking with varied Councilors in an amiable manner. Finally, a small procession of Seekers is seen entering the Hall, and sounds of workmanship is heard. An Agent of the Spellguard is seen walking inside, then leaving with a scowl upon his face. Rumors begin to circulate that the Seekers have once more reintegrated with the City.

Word quickly spreads of the Sheriff dragging a naked woman from the Watch House. Near the Town Hall, he addressed the Crowd, declaring that Sanctuary would not tolerate traitors in it's midst. Amidst confusion at what was about to happen, the bound and gagged woman was cast violently over the edge, to fall to her death in Lower, which Azzam had proclaimed her Realm of Choice..

Rumors say that some sort of attack was carried out on the Traders and Kobolds at Port Claw. What exactly happened, is uncertain. However, citizens report seeing a very angry kobold accost Chairman Dentra outside the Town Hall. The two disappeared into the chambers of the Council, and the Kobold exited some time later, still looking rather angry.

Many begin to wonder if relations with the Shadow Tribe are going south, and what that will mean for the economy, and their safety...

After the arrest of Butch Von Matterheim in New Dunwarren, some 30-odd gnomes were seen marching on the Watch House furiously. They shared a single chant:

"FREE MATTERHEIM!"

Many were also heard questioning why a slayer of kobolds was being arrested when by all rights he should be given a medal.

Citizens of New Dunwarren, gnomes especially, remain furious and discontent with Azzam's rule.

There is only one thing on anyones tongue, now: Etorix, and the Shadow Tribe.

Word quickly spread of Butch von Matterheim's sentence, he was to be turned over to Etorix for execution. All gathered at the gates, and awaited the Shadow Dragons arrival...

The gates were shrouded in darkness, tales say, and the Dragon flew in. Before Butch could be handed over, he slew one Gnome simply during the wait. When Butch arrived, the Mighty Dragon exchanged several words, before swallowing the Gnome whole. Moments later, the Dragon appeared confused, and a loud explosion rocked the area, from within the belly of the beast. Wounded, some took up the sword and sought to slay the Dragon.

At this point, the Dragon slaughtered all who raised arms against him, which amounted to several zealous gnomes. He took flight, and decimated the front gate, before laying an aerial assault to the city with fearsome breaths which are reported to have injured dozens.

Finally, the dragon departed. But, the Citizens of Upper are wary to see their one and only ally in the Underdark cut loose..

Gnomes remain severely displeased, despite this severence from the Shadow Tribe.

Citizens of Old Sanctuary enter a state of panic after reading an open letter to the Council and the new list of demands made by the Shadow Tribe. Non-stop protests are heard in the Town Hall, as people demand their leaders to make action.

On this 5th of Ches, the booms of distant battle drums were heard at the Gates of Sanctuary. Orog archers and warriors descended on the gates from all sides, firing heated arrows, balls of fire, and meeting steel with steel. Ladders were erected on the gates, allowing packets of orog to bypass the defenses, as the rain of arrows continued.

It was not long until the battle ended. Bodies of orog, human, and halfling alike decorated the various cliff sides of the gate. Animatron parts, weapon shards, and broken arrows defined the remaining landscape. Overall, Sanctuary took a resounding victory, suffering minimal casualties in response to the slaughter of the orog tribe.

After the dust settled, Shadow Tribe Ambassador Claw made an announcement, making it clear the reason for attack. Due to the lost favor of "Great Shadow Death" -- a shadow dragon whom the Shadow Tribe Kobolds worship and the dragon that has protected Sanctuary in the past -- the orogs were no longer held back in fear of him, and decided to capitalize on the opportunity to capture slaves. "If only you not try to kill Great Shadow Death, maybe this could all be avoided? Meet our demands," were Claw's final statements.

The Upper city is in a panic after a massive attack squad of Drow in green-and-black suits, led by a six-fingered drow Lich, materialized outside the Spellguard Tower and stormed the place, before disappearing entirely.

The effect has been dramatic. The Tower lobby is in utter ruin. The Spellguard no longer have a reception. Agents are seen calling their animatrons back into the Tower, where they never reemerge.

In fact, signs of Spellguard involvement in most aspects of Sanctuary's defense and operation decline considerably. Feelings about this vary considerably - from satisfaction to indifference, to abject fear of the consequences of losing another of Sanctuary's defenders.

Two Watch Privates, one a burly looking dwarf, the other a human wearing a cloak of Helm were seen directing the destruction of several large boulders around the destroyed Watch Gate. Witnesses say they saw the two and a few friends 'Dang all up there fer hours!'. A steady stream of Watchmen was seen after the original group departed, covered in sweat and dust, carrying broken tables, chairs, and other pieces of furniture to help fortify the position.

No one above the rank of Private was seen doing any busy work. Some in the Watch grow sick and tired of favortism, even worse, are absolutely irate about working double shifts over 'some gods be damned stupid arse gnomes.' Ire and bile are spewed regularly over breaks, and many Watchmen even are seen agreeing that something needs to be done about 'them gnomes on the hill.'

While many praise Azzam for doing something about the Gate, many wonder why the Council does nothing to rebuild their defenses quicker.

Ambassador Warlord Throx Claw of the Shadow Tribe is seen leaving Sanctuary with former Shadow Tribe Ambassador Aurelius Natch in chains. Not long after, a new Ambassador of the Shadow Tribe, Ambassador Blizzy Snout, is seen entering Old Sanctuary with his escort.

In Lower Sanctuary, the Shadow Tribe Embassy is starting to rise up. Ambassador Krixis Fang arrives and makes promise of a prosperous Canal Ward in the near future.

The sentiments of the people of Lower Sanctuary and the Canal Ward are heavy with the loss of life incurred by the devastating romp of a massive, house-sized spider around the district. The initial pursuit by the guards and leadership of the Montezzi House failed as the spider escaped to its nest atop a building in the Canal Ward, but by their keen persistence and initiative, the scourge was finally uprooted and expunged.

This was not without considerable expense. In addition to the already steep death toll, the leader of the Montezzi House and ruler of Lower Sanctuary - the Prince Rinaldo Montezzi was killed in the battle mere moments before the beast was felled by members of his loyal crew and associates.

The atmosphere of utter shock at this unexpected development has set a stigma over all who dwell below, and many of those few individuals who are not too afraid to crawl out from the concealment of their makeshift beds or peer through the cracks in their doors are helpless at their apprehension of what this means for the future of Sanctuary.

Of course, many are still happy to drink their worries away at the Pissing Crone, which has received much increased business since the slaughter.

For the first time in more years than anyone can remember, a weary, aging, yet proud little kobold by the name of Lord Bunge marched through the gates of Sanctuary unscathed by Watch bolts and blades. Setting up camp within the gates for now, many wonder what mischief the little scamp will find himself getting into now.

Elsewhere, in a heartwarming act of civic charity, several refugees from the Canal Ward that had been residing in the Archibald Residence are seen laying several stone masonry foundations around the destroyed Sanctuary Gates.

A batallion of Chosen is said to have swarmed out of the Pumphouse this evening, slaying at least a dozen lowersmen. They briefly held the Pumphouse, barricading it shut, before a flotilla of adventurers and warriors were able to force them into retreat.

Flyers were said to have dropped, promising further attacks...

As the days pass and the shadow of Sslal’teesh hangs over Sanctuary, and a sombre mood has befallen the citizenry, an ever growing number of ragged and starved slaves arrive at the walls of Sanctuary, hailing from the metropolis of Traensyr.

They speak in hushed, fearful tones of the streets awash with blood, with the Houses continuing to rage terrible warfare against one another. The violence has reached it’s zenith, and the slaves fearfully speak of tall, terrible Drow garbed in little but rusted armour, with blades drenched in foul ichors participating in the skirmishes as well.

Learned voices in Sanctuary ponder what an ascendant Ghaunadaurran Regime would mean for Sanctuary, and rumours are abound that the defence agencies are quietly preparing for the conflict that would inevitably arise after the fall of the Houses.

Word spreads of a contingent of Ghaunadauran Rebels, all humans, arriving at the Gates. They sounded a horn, and awaited the arrival of a multitude of citizens and Councilors.

After a lengthy discussion with Councilor Dentra, the Emissary and his Advisor were allowed to enter the City, and give a speech in the Town Hall.

They made claims of the impending destruction of Traensyr, and invited all able warriors who wished fame, glory, riches or freedom for the enslaved to join their crusade, tomorrow evening.

The response was mostly hesitant, and anxious from the populace, however at least a dozen men were seen nodding along approvingly, and several even immediately pledged their assistance.

An Umberhulk is said to have rampaged throughout Lower, even entering into the Crone several times, before slaying a man and running off with his corpse, into the dark...

Approximately 20 slaves can be seen entering the City, rather disoriented. They speak of a daring raid upon a Traensyr Noble House, which set them free.

They even speak of the brave Warriors, telling them to run for the Free City of Sanctuary. One warrior in particular is said to have sounded a fearsome horn, just before brutally slaughtering the beasts.

Most can only assume that this is the beginning of the fruits of battle that the Ghaunadauran's have been speaking of...

Another day passes, and once more the Ghaunadauran Rebels showed themselves in front of the Gates, and whisked away nigh a dozen citizens, who returned several hours later.

The issue of the Rebels, and the War they are waging with Traensyr is the hot topic of conversation, amongst everyone from Nobles to Beggars.

In the Lower Wards, however, talk is noteably different. Their focus is upon the recent Chosen Raids, and many state that the Chosen have been more frequent within the Sewers, and even bolder than usual. Rarely does a few hours pass, that a scream cannot be heard amidst a frenzy of feral squeaks, which eminate from the depths of the Dunwarren Sewers...

Once more, the dwindling population of Lower Sanctuary boarded up their homes, as Chosen swarmed the streets. The chosen were beaten back by adventurers, at the head of which it is said "Prince" Ghyrrt fought, along with a Seeker in Chainmail who was said to have been the true hero of the day.

While the death toll was significantly heavier on the adventuring side than the common man, the structural damage to the southern alleys, and much of Lower was substantial. All Lowersmen are agreed, they cannot take much more of this sort of frequent raid.

The city was shaken briefly, when what would appear to be an explosion rang throughout the caverns..

From the feel of it, the epicenter was somewhere deep below the Residential District.

As carcass of both men and chosen pile within the streets of lower sanctuary, visitors to the ward can notice a strange affliction attacking the children, the elderly and generally those with poorer constitution. Many are seen with virulent and disgusting growth and bulges appearing on the surface of their skin.

The majority of population start to blame the extremely decrepit and noxious state of lower sanctuary and claim that it was simply a matter of time before diseases broke loose.

Some, however, believe it must be linked to the recent aggressions by the Chosen and that they somehow managed to infect the population with a virulent plague that most have come to name as "Rat Pox".

The citizen of Upper Sanctuary can be staying more indoor in fear that the disease would somehow be spread to the residential areas of the city.

A large group of citizens can be seen 'herding' the diseased and the afflicted within a small abandonned warehouse. After much convincing, most of the infected are gathered up and sent there.

Many nervous lower citizens allude to the idea of "blowing the damn thing with all of the sickies inside", while those more concerned feel pressured to help their unlucky neighbours with this strange illness.

The Spellguard's most recent announcement sparks an immediate surge in the public consciousness. Everyone can be heard conversing on the godsend of a Bresley in Town again.

People immediately begin to wonder if he shall be assuming the Mayorship, with some of the more cynical residents questioning if Azzam will allow him to.

One thing is certain however --

The City is in a buzz at the return of the thought dead Mayor, Michael Bresley.

The City is in a stir, after Michael Bresley's speech. It is said he declared that he would not be taking up the mantle of Mayor, despite being offered it by Sheriff Azzam.

Instead, he is said to have declared that the City of Sanctuary has fallen from what it was meant to be, and that he would be taking up leadership of the only recently re-welcomed Seekers.

Citizens are heard to comment on this with everything from disappointment, to anger, to jubilation.

Word trickles in of the result of the Ghaunadauran Rebel Army:

Defeated.

Rumors spread slowly of the number of afflicted and diseased growing significantly within the past hours, especially within the Residential Area and the New Dunwarren Hill. Non-afflicted citizens start to lock themselves in, while others harbor the streets in search of help from the local clergies.

Rumors begin to trickle in of Drow Patrols headed out of Traensyr and in the direction of most major settlements within the area, including Ysinode, Lobliiliplop and Mur.

The nature of their visits is uncertain, though they appear to not stay much longer than to pass on some sort of message...

A contingency of Drow is said to have approached the gate and read a proclamation by the supposed new Matron Mother of Traensyr, announcing that the city was reunited.

Additionally, they announced that unless Sanctuary gave them 200 slaves within 10 day, for their aiding of the Ghaunadauran Rebels, they would direct their wrath upon the City.

The Order of the Spellguard announces proudly that a cure, devised by themselves, has been found for the Ratpox disease that had spread within certain parts of the city. All infected citizens were advised to head to Serena Tower in order to be cleansed of the disease. Due to this development, the Order also announced the re-opening of the gates in-between lower Sanctuary and Upper Sanctuary while advising citizens to avoid the lower slums in prevention of any further break-outs of pestilence within the decrepit and ruinous lower part of the city.

Lieutenant Sheps recent announcement of Enthrallment in the Watch has caused an all new stir..

Citizens report having seen screenings occuring while being innoculated in the Tower for Rat Pox. Reports vary, but most state that at least 5 or 6 Watchman were taken in, and reported as thralls.

Extremists state that the Spellguard is making it all up, whilst most citizens remain concerned about the possibility of beloved Defenders being the servants to an unknown Illithid Master..

Watchmen continue to stream into the Tower, when they may for their mandatory Enthrallment Checks..

Several are never seen leaving, and many citizens are growing increasingly worried about the rising number of thralls being found. It is rumored to have hit the double digits, this afternoon.

Still, some decry it as nothing but Spellguard Conspiracy.

Another massive chosen attack rocked Lower and the Canal, today. They were reportedly turned back, however the Pumphouse has fallen into total Chosen Control. Entrance is barred, by a barricade of their own devising.

Lieutenant Dorn Reynolds is said to have descended into the Canal with a contingency of Men, to hold it. After the main assault was turned back, reports say that he and his men went after the Chosen, into the Depths...

Whether or not he'll return, the Citizens are uncertain.

With Reynolds still on the lamb, the City is in a stir over his supposed enthrallment. Opinions vary on the matter, citizens decrying them as everything from heroic refugees to fugitives from rightful imprisonment and execution as thralls.

It varies, depending upon the person you speak to, however all are agreed that they do not wish to be the one to drive that mans back into a corner, lest all of the City see just what sort of man Dorn Reynolds really is, along with his dozen renegade Watchmen...

On another note, the streets seem a bit unruly of late, with at least a dozen watchmen slain as thralls, and another dozen taken leave of their posts to follow the Renegade Lieutenant.

The City is in Mourning. Sheriff Azrus Azzam presented himself for a Ceremonial Testing, to mark the completion of Thrall Testing for the Watch. From there, the event went downhill.

Officer Barkely shockingly announced that Sheriff Azzam was enthralled. Azzam proceeded to beat Barkely into submission, and flee the Town Hall, killing several in the process, and harming countless others. He is said to have barricaded himself within the Sheriff's Quarters, where a contingency of Citizens, Watchmen and Spellguard Agents and Operatives engaged in a lengthy battle.

The final conclusion was the untimely death of Sanctuary's Savior, Azrus Azzam. The entire city trembles, with the death of this Giant. Agitators claim it as yet more proof of the impending Spellguard Take Over, while most are simply dumb founded by the revelation.

Safety in the City, remains on the decline..

The hours following Azzams death were utter chaos. Explosions rocked the Residential District, and robberies were commonplace. Anarchy ruled the streets for two short hours, while the Watch struggled to reassert control.

However, eventually, Martial Law was declared by the Watch, and rebel forces began to be executed with little regard for their reasoning. The death toll is estimated to have topped 50, all told.

Eventually, Lieutenants Delorme and Sheps are said to have secured the City, and lifted the ban on the streets. Citizens were allowed out, shaken, but mostly ok.

Rumor has it, however, the Lt Reynolds was spotted in the mayhem within the Residential District. Some claim that he was to blame, while others state that he was valiantly fighting looters, and saving innocents. None can say for certain, however word gets out that Lt Sheps was briefly in the Custody of Reynolds and his men, before being returned to the City Naked and Beaten..

As the dust begins to settle, the full toll of the evenings events begins to become evident.

With no Sheriff, the Watch stumbles about in a general disarray. Early reports indicate that at least 30 men have deserted, and not returned to their posts since the death of Sheriff Azzam. This thirty, compounded with the thirteen killed in the Inquisition, and the dozen renegade watchmen set off with Former LT Reynolds puts the Watch at a population they have not seen since the days of Sheriff Walters.

Civil Unrest remains common, with smaller crimes breaking out all over the place. The institution of Martial Law appears to have quelled most major rebellion and anarchy, but could not halt the petty theft, brawling and general marauding that has become all too common on the streets of Upper.

With the Sheriff's Body beginning to cool, talk begins to turn to his replacement, and towards any sort of will the Enthralled Sanctuary Sheriff might have had, and whether or not it is even valid in the face of such a clear lack of faculties..

Following the city's general descent into despair, a large raiding part stemming from the legions of followers of Moander attacked the city and occupied the New Dunwarren Temple of Tyr for a few -long- hours before being expelled by the local populace of brave adventurers.

The results were grim. Most, if not all, of the population of New Dunwarren lay dead upon the ground except for Archpriest of Tyr, Eumond Hamuramos, and Baron Von Matterheim whom managed to fend off the invaders long enough for reinforcement to arrive.

Eumond Hamuramos was seen in company of a brave battalion of warriors trying to lift the curse affecting the land. After giving numerous prayers to their lord, it was clear that the curse now affecting the land would not be lifted so easily. Each group, shocked by this tragic event, retired back into the tumultuous streets of Old Dunwarren, but satisfied that, at the very least, the desecrators had been killed and the victims avenged.

Werner Sheps announced today that he would be taking the Office of Sheriff, to much support from the populace. However, more than a few watchmen were seen leaving their posts, shortly after.

Most comment on the fact that the Council has seemingly died entirely, barring a single speech from Councilor Raymus on the matter.

Word spreads like wildfire across Old Sanctuary: the Sanctuary Below has fallen. Sometime in the closing hours of Tarsakh 26th, Chosen descended upon the ward in a frenzy of slaughter. Reports are abound of women and children slaughtered at the Gates of the In-Between as the Watch refused to let them inside. Shortly afterwards, a sombre sending was broadcast by Lieutenant Delorme calling for a militia of citizens to launch an intervention force to rescue people still trapped.

Former Sergeant Lauren, who is said to have quit when Lt. Krown refused to open the gates to refugees, led the group downwards, yet never returned with them.

Reports are conflicted at best. Despite the rumours that no Watch personnel made the journey below, surviving Lowersmen speak of a small force of Watchmen emerging from the ruins, cutting a bloody swathe through the Chosen and overseeing the rescue of a number of Citizens before disappearing without a trace. Pockets of resistance are said to remain in Lower Sanctuary, although people glance below, wondering how long any remaining folk can survive.

Finally, a column of grim looking warriors, followed quickly by a ragged caravan of commonfolk arrived at the Gates of Upper. People camp in the streets and people are more packed in than they have been in living memory.

The Chosen swarm over the decrepit ruins of Lower Sanctuary. Citizens of Old Sanctuary can only wonder with trepidation when the City is to follow.

Word speaks of the Great Shadow Death, the dark serpent Etorix, holding an extraordinary tournament within a vast shadowed arena. It is said that many earned treasures of great value, while others perished horribly within the arena.

Commoners speak of excitement of how the great dragon battled a talented drow warrior at the end of the festivities, destroying him completely, even as the dragon promised that in his omnipotent power, he would be a savior to Sanctuary always.

After a surprisingly brief campaigning period, and a bit of a delay, the polls finally open. Citizens stream in, however in noticeably smaller numbers than usual. Whether this is because of a general fear of going outside, a disinterest in the candidates, or the sparse campaigning none can say.

Today, rumors say, the Heralds Office was taken hostage by a contingency of Rebel Watchmen, and the fugitive Dorn Reynolds.

They forcibly made a sending, stating:

Citizens of Sanctuary. This is Lieutenant Dorn Reynolds, of the Sanctuary Watch, and I come to you with the truth.

You may have heard many things, within the past few weeks. You will have been told I am a traitor, an outlaw- a thrall. A thousand curses will have been uttered in the name of Sheriff Azrus Azzam. All charges are utterly false.

Upon 16th of Tarasakh, Werner Sheps and Agent Isania Symbaern reached the conclusion of an operation that was to castrate the Watch and springboard the Order to power over the City. Sheriff Azzam was discovered to be a Thrall, and was promptly executed with the support of adventurers and Watchmen. In a time previous, Sheps and Symbaern were responsible for the kidnapping and enthrallment of Watchmen and Sheriff Azzam himself.

In response, a small number of Watchmen followed me in resisting the coup orchestrated by Stephanos Simms. We are not traitors, nor are we enthralled. With rational minds, we resist. I come before you tonight to offer but one solemn promise: we will return, and put an end to mageocracy with the sword.

We shall watch this night, and all others yet to come.

Good dark.

They then blew a hole in the back of the Town Hall and escaped. The Spellguard was quick to react, bringing in Animatrons and making counter sendings, decrying the group as thralls and renegades.

The majority of the populace seems torn on what to believe, anymore. Voter turnout drops even more, with most afraid to enter the Town Hall.

A much smaller group crowded into the Town Hall, than usual, to hear the announcement of the Election Results.

The Clerk informed them that voter turnout was at an all new low. The results were as follows: Adair - 96 Ignatiev - 94 Raymus - 85 Dentra - 72 D'allegmane - 68

Wilkina - 66 Lynn - 65 Redd - 53 Weber - 48 Grigorovich - 42 Indira - 33 Baeron Galmoth -32

Civil War cleaves the City in two!

What began as merely a speech by the upstart Councilor Edward Raymus, ended in what is now being called the worst civil strife since the Ubel Rebellion..

In the midst of his speech decrying the Order of the Spellguard, and the ways Sanctuary has fallen into Councilor Raymus was slain by a Spellguard Agent. Raymus was proclaimed to be a seditionist and rebel consorting with Dorn Reynolds. Following his assassination, chaos reigned for a brief time within the Town Hall..

Sheriff Sheps was quick to arrive on the scene, where he announced the disbanding of the City Council and proclaimed he and Commander Simms joint overseers to the City in this time of need, assuring all that a new dawn was coming over Sanctuary.

Michael Bresley soon arrived, Seekers in tow. With a wry salute, he caustically praised the new Shepsian Regime before denouncing the Spellguard as Tyrants and encouraging all who would fight to follow him to the Seeker Hall, where he is presumed to have spoken further.

Shortly after this, scuffles began to break out upon the streets as Lowersmen fought Watchman, Rebels fought Spellguard and chaos reigned . The Machine Zone is said to have been raided several times,while in the Residential District a number of rebellious Watchmen were put down, before Valsre Delorme arrived and slew an Agent along with several Animatrons. He then fled, further into Dunwarren...

Shortly after, the In-Between fell to Rebels as more Loyalist Watchmen lost their lives.

The City continues it's slow descent into oblivion, as war ravages the streets. Various groups stake out areas, fighting off all opposition that comes towards them. Anarchy reigns, despite the promises of Sheriff Sheps that this decision would bring about increased stability..

Mirtul 5, 153.

Lieutenant Krown was seen marching towards the battlements opposite the Seeker Hall, along with prisoners rounded up the night previous. He was meet by Sergeant Keel, accompanied by an escort of Rebel Watchmen. After offering a brief ultimatum to surrender which Keel refused, the Lieutenant had the men thrown into Lower Sanctuary after rejecting a prisoner exchange.

Before their death, word spreads that they uttered defiant cries- invoking the name of half forgotten prophets hailed as heroes in the Sanctuary Below. The citizenry question whether Lieutenant Reynolds has lost hold of his sense, by holding company with such radicals. Nevertheless, there is a distinct feeling the new regime do not intend to deal with treachery lightly. The commonfolk mostly retreat back to their homes, and lock the doors.

Shortly afterwards, terrible screams were heard from the Seeker Hall. People cannot help but wonder what has become of the Spellguard Prisoners held by the seditionists, and mutter darkly that men of Upper Sanctuary should not be slain in exchange for the blood of the unwashed rabble.

Mirtul 6, 153

Overseer Sheps went on the sending system to announce he had decided to enact conscription for the duration of the current crisis. Soon afterwards a column of men- mostly former Watchmen and freelancers were seen reporting to the Watch House. Belo Macasta was seen arguing with a Sergeant loudly outside of his residence, before storming inside. No estimates have been made, apart from the common agreement that no draft of this magnitude has been made since Azzam took control, and even then the drafts were not so intense. Soon enough, more Watchmen flood onto the streets.

A strange occurrence in Sanctuary.

A young boy, a refugee living in one of the tents in Upper, suddenly cries out in abrupt pain, clutching at his head... he screams again, and at the very instant that he drops dead with blood leaking from his ears, all of Sanctuary experiences a stunningly realistic and chilling vision: [

A sinister herald's trumpet brought forth a pair of Drow under the Traensyr banner. The herald's guard quickly put down a disruptive citizen before an Agent of the Spellguard arrived to hear their words. Rumor spreads that the dragon Etorix was paying off Sanctuary's "debt," and now the Drow want the last hundred slaves that is "owed" to them. The city has two days to comply, as the pair announced they would be back in force.

In the early hours of the dark, Lady Jessica Falkland and her retinue were seen vacating the Archibald Estate. Shortly afterwards, a large cadre of men bearing Spellguard uniforms accompanied by a large contingent of Animatrons entered into the Estate, and were not seen afterwards. Occasionally, Wyric Crowshire will be seen coming and going about business in the Town, but otherwise the Estate stands silent, and nothing more is heard from within. Rumors begin to circulate that Lord Alexander has left the City entirely, fearing the Chosen. It is agreed that this is not a good portent of the future.

Strange sounds are heard emanating from the Spellguard Tower. After days of silence, a single Agent is seen emerging from the Archibald Estate alone. More Watchmen are moved across the City, and the Tower is increasingly fortified. Whispers spread that the spectral apparition of Commander Simms has been seen traveling abroad for the first time in years. Onlookers shift uncomfortably at the thought that the Commander has begun to take a personal interest in the affairs of Sanctuary.

An eventful and tragic day strikes the Gates of Sanctuary.

First, an attack upon the gates is said to have been perpetrated by the Rebel leaders Murien Zirkin and John Keel. While Murien is rumored to have fallen, the whereabouts of Renegade Sergeant Keel are unknown. However, the death toll was significant. More than half a dozen are said to be dead.

Shortly after, the Traensyrian Herald returned, to make good on the demands of 100 slaves. However, she soon announced that not even that would stop them, and informed the City that a raiding party would soon be on their way.

It was not long before a party of perhaps 30 drow, a pittance of the full force of Traensyr struck. The cost was high --

More than 200 are said to have been killed or captured in the less than 15 minute scuffle, despite the brave efforts of a few citizens. In particular, the last scion of House Donrick, Lucas Donrick, seems to have risen to even higher heights, as word spreads of his amazing combat with the Leader of the Drow Raiders. Their battle is said to have spanned all over the battlefield, while Donrick was aided by a variety of healers and wizards. Eventually, between Donrick and Blackbeard, the Leader was struck down. Alas, even this victory did not bring back the more than 200 lost.

Sanctuary lies in rebel hands. Reports are varied. Massacres perpetuated by both sides, terrible battles in which loyalist and rebel were indiscernible. However, everyone agrees upon a few basic details. In the early hours of the dark, dissident citizens staged an uprising in the Residential District. A patrol of men was soon sent to crush it, but they were immediately turned back by the appearance of John Keel and his irregulars. The battle has soon become legendary, with reports of the former Ambassador of Etorix Pyotr Ignatiev single handedly facing down over a dozen rebels. The fighting raged in the Residential District, and the vast majority of the Loyalist war machine was deployed in an attempt to crush the rebel Sergeants. However, the fighting stopped after reports were filed of Dorn Reynolds appearing at the gates at the head of a host of Veteran Watchmen.

After forcing surrender out of the Garrison, Reynolds entered the City unopposed. Pandemonium followed. It was reported Overseer Sheps was embattled in the Watch House, but after the dust cleared the men garrisoning had all but melted away. The Order still holds a formidable position in the City, with a good few hundred people camped out amidst the fortifications, hoping to be allowed to flee to the Tower. After the rubble has cleared, rebel forces cannot exceed more than four dozen men, with some estimates reckoning at much less. However, celebrations have been held throughout the City, with Reynolds and Michael Bresley being hailed as heroes. However, more cynical voices speak of the considerable military weight the Order still commands, along with the ever growing belief that it is beyond the means of anyon ein the City to oppose the doom that stirs in the depths of Dunwarren.

In the early hours of the dark, the Sergeants Keel and Antonov were seen marching to the Town Hall at the head of a large body of men. After speaking briefly to a Private, and demanding the deliverance of Krown in exchange for the remaining loyalist Watchmen's lives, the Private withdrew back to his lines. After minutes of silence, Krown emerged only to find the door lock behind him. What followed was a bloody melee, where the embattled Lieutenant killed many citizens who stood by and watched, in his rage. Finally, he was dragged to the Stoning Cage, and executed by Sergeant Keel. Sergeant Sterspar and his remaining men were allowed to withdraw to the Tower.

Shortly afterwards, the loyalist Lieutenant Illario Dentra was seen walking the barricades around the Tower, garbed in the Uniform of a Private. A victorious cry went up from the beleaguered loyalists, with barbed taunts being hurled at Sergeant Keel for his failure to capture the Lieutenant when he had him in his grasp. Shortly afterwards, a few men dressed in battered Watch Uniforms were seen to return to the Tower's lines, and Sergeant Sterspar was spotted stoically organizing the newly returned loyalists. Rumors continue to fly that Lieutenant Reynolds is bringing in siege weaponry from Mur. It is clear both sides are squaring up for a decisive battle, and it is clear the next day shall herald the bloodiest fighting that has yet been seen.

Rumors spread of a massive contingent of siege weaponry being moved inside the city to the bazaar which was used in bombarding the Spellguard Tower with a shower of rock, molten iron and alchemits fire.

After the damage dealt by the fire, a loud horn sounded through the city and a massive contingent of men were unleashed upon the tower destroying animatrons in their wake but suffering heavy casualties at the same time.

Not too soon after dissapearing within the tower, they left the tower with the head of the Overseer Sheps in their hands. However, many spoke at that time that the battle had been lost through the cowardly tactics of the Order of the Spellguard. Nevertheless, it didnt stop an expedition of the city's most brave or most foolish adventurers from heading within with a a strange man dressed in dark clothing and wearing a metallic mask.

After what seemed like an eternity, the group finally showed signs of life by leaving the Spellguard Tower running. Cheers and screams of joy resounded throughout the Seeker headquarters soon afterward although' their exact significance is still ignored by most of the populace.

Not a moment afterward did a large series of mechanical whirls and machinery noise start happening in and around the Spellguard zone. A powerful energy field has sealed off the tower completely, and some say forever...

Michael Bresley held a speech today, in which he spoke on the nature of things to come. He is said to have reclaimed the Mayorship to great approval. Additionally, he asked all blades to aid the Watch, which is now headed by Sheriff Valsre Delorme. Many wonder why Dorn Reynolds, leader of the Rebellion, was not made Sheriff. However, a vocal segment praise the choice.

Additionally, Hero of the Rebellion, John Keel was promoted to Lieutenant amidst the masses, to much praise. Shortly after, however, Commander Simms is said to have appeared and preach on the doom of Sanctuary soon to come.

All are agreed, however, that the City is looking up with a Bresley at the head, and Delorme as Sheriff. Some begin to come out of their homes for the first time in weeks.

On Mirtul 19th, a lone citizen was seen escorting a strange-looking gnome through the city, guiding him finally to the residential district after much protestation from neighbouring citizens. Following this, a small device of illithid-origin was planted into the ground near the fountain where it emitted a bizarre green light and noise.

Several minutes passed and all was quiet in the district before a storm of energy rose up and several gigantic umber-hulks appeared across the district devastating all in their path. A single illithid also appeared across the area said to have walked slowly from citizen to citizen, stuning them with his psionic powers and teleporting them away subsequently.

Nobody knows exactly what happened afterward with the exception that it was eerily quiet in the streets of the Residential District after the conclusion of this event...

From the ruins, the sounds of screeching squeaks and howls of Chosen-celebration.... although no reports of any Chosen raid occur, most of Sanctuary are certain that what is good for the Chosen is unlikely to be good for them.

Persistent screams matched with frequent bursts of brilliant and un-natural red light are heard and seen coming from the city's Mausoleum. A chilling mood of depression, agony, and remorse flood the land surrounding the building, and a cold mist seems to drape the building continuously of late.

Rumors spark that a Seeker helped the last svirfneblin of all Dunwarren escape from the Sewers and into Seeker Hall. Hordes of flying Chosens subsequently assaulted the streets of Upper Sanctuary as adventurers, watchmen and seekers try to drove them off.

Fearful citizens are seen speculating about that this enormous mistake of bringing a svirfneblin here that very well seal the doom of all as the Chosen attempt to kill it. Others think that aiding this svirfneblin to survive might be the last hope of Sanctuary in facing what makes the Chosen behave so aggressively...

Mayor Bresley is said to have given a speech in the Town Hall, announcing with pride that the Eastern Gate of Dunwarren has been found, and is being excavated.

Further, he states that he believes beyond it, lies a place that the Citizens can rebuild, and remain safe while they continue their search for the Way to the Surface.

Screams and Screeches coming from deep within Dunwarren to echo back to Sanctuary... Nobody in Sanctuary absolutely sure of their significance but everyone foreseeing the worst...

Horror has struck Sanctuary. It is said that at the very moment that the forces of the illithid city of Ysinode seized the Upper Sanctuary gate, a terrible yawn was heard throughout Dunwarren. Although reports vary, it is believed that the enthralled dragon Etorix was devoured by something, and that Chosen now rule the street.

Sanctuary has fallen. Most have either perished, or fled into the ruins, where refugee camps may be found.