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(( Only DMs may reply to this thread. Almost everything here will be fairly common knowledge for PCs, as they are major events and rumours the word of which should spread like wildfire. ))

What was once an abandoned Ziggurat has been slowly filling up with a regular stream of people. Although many have wandered away from the ruins, there to meet an almost certain death, many have banded together towards the base of the structure, and begun to erect a sort of camp within one of the ruined halls. Slowly, but surely, a kind of amorphous settlement is forming.

Several elves garbed in azure and blue tinted armor are seen skulking about the Ziggurat amidst the recent population explosion and teleportions. Word travels of a large gathering that took place, led by a narrow framed moon elf female, and several powerful wizards. Rumors of portals opened by the elven mages have many wondering exactly what these elves are doing so close to the Ziggurat, though many dismiss it as yet another oddity of the strange island called Ymph.

As the population of the Ziggurat gradually increases, rumors speaks of conflict between the recent crop of Amauntori and some of the fierce men who've made their home in the Gobsquat.

Those who spend an extended amount of period observing the oceans begin to note a strange presence. While none have spotted anything specific, large corpses of odd fish are said to be turning up, mostly stripped to the bone.

What is for certain is that whatever is haunting the waters nearby, is not something one would wish to encounter alone.

A rumour circulating amongst the people of the Ziggurat that a large contingent of mercenaries from Old Port, referred to as the Stygian Armada, have docked and installed themselves near the Gobsquat. Some speak that this group has established a peaceful agreement with the current militia in order to fortify the city against the many threats of the Island. Others look upon these new arrivals with suspicions and fear.

Residents of the Ziggurat speak of an enormous minotaur appearing at the top of the the structure. Apparently the beast bellowed and stamped about with confusion for several seconds before running away, flattening several in the process.

Rumors speak of a large naval battle being fought in the sea just beyond the "docks" at the utmost height of a powerful, dangerous storm. Shortly afterward representatives from the damaged yet victorious ships arrived on shore, and began to make inquiries. Supposedly they call themselves the Fleet of the First Bolt, and are a fleet of privateers who predominantly prey on pirates and slavers. Opinion varies as to their true nature and trustworthiness.

Supposedly these mariners are looking for men and women to fill out their crews, and there is general interest among many of those who dwell within the ruins.

Rumors spread of a large contingent of men reuniting in the hunt for some heretic cult and subsequently burning the Amaunatori temple down. Citizens of the ziggurat overseeing this apparent senseless destruction are appalled that a civilization so young would simply destroy its resources or structures the ruins may provide over mere rumors...

As the day breaks and night ends, the people of the Ziggurat hear the sounds of a large group of newcomers arriving into the ruin. Led by Gaeseric and groups of men clad in blue and silver, a large population of pale men, women, and children who say they are from a place called Sanctuary arrive. Their attitude is joyous and celebratory, tinged with sadness at the many they have lost in the long journey behind them.

They say that their Underdark town was destroyed, and that they were clinging on to survival in an ancient and hidden ruin, until druids, Gaeseric, and others descended to rescue them.

The people of Sanctuary have spread out throughout the ruin, settling into different cleared chambers within the Ziggurat, or trying to find a new home as best they can.

Kythorn 19th, 1375 DR...

The nights feel longer, and the air is remarkably and noticably more frigid in the evenings. Nightrisers are out in force, and powerfully so. Travellers notice particularly loud noises erupting from the nearby Nightriser Barracks. Though no one is certain of exactly what is happening, many wonder who will protect the newly arrived citizens of the Ziggurat in times of duress, panic, and unrest.

Several small groups of citizens living around the Ziggurat start to organize themselves into small fledgling organization with the goal of handling the basic needs of the community. At this moment, constructions are underway, but it seems that the rise or fall of these small entreprises involving most of the unrepresented population of the Ziggurat will be largely dependent on the help they receive.

A large Sembian merchant family calling themselves The Malatestas arrive at the Ziggurat, the morning after a fierce tempest; fragments of their host continue to arrive some days thereafter. Little is known about the household or their staff, but the Ziggurat is rife with conjecture. Hopefuls claim their expertise in economics and trade will revivify the fledgling community, but doubters speak of extortion and greed.

Rumors fly through the Ziggurat of a legion of goblins, led by a lone goblin chief calling himself Sergeant Spittlefire, massing themselves at the gates and demanding the sum of 5000 gold coins to be delivered to them or they would trample the fledgling civilization. Despite this, a brave group of adventurers took arms and repel the threat with minimal casualties. A terrible and macabre image of death and warfare could be seen from the gates as hundreds of goblin corpses littered the ground.

Following the words of a strange and enigmatic figure that appeared over the top of the Ziggurat declaring that the period of grace granted by the Nightrisen had ended. The refusal of the population to leave the ruins declared the beginning of a deadly and costly invasion that lasted throughout the entirety of the Night. Nevertheless, the defenders fought on bravely, repelling each and every wave of the massive amounts of Nightriser soldiers that were summoned forth against them and managed to hold the line as the sun came back into view and symbolized the end of this threat.

Hundreds of the Nightrisers' bones littering the Ziggurat proceeding to turn to ashes under the warmth of the sun's rays. The defenders of the Ziggurat had certainly won this day and bought the settlement much needed time against this mysterious threat, but many wonder... how long the settlement would last against such an uncanny foe if no one would step up and organize the defenses.

Citizens of the Ziggurat can see certain groups slowly distancing themselves from the vague masses in the hope of claiming some influence over the construction of the fledgling city.

Those entering the city can see that a fervent helmite known as Karzan "Dogshead" Fyoris has taken a solitary vigil at the top of the gates incitating citizens into stepping down from political entangling and simply taking in hands the simple values and needs such as the one for protection. He can seen encouraging citizens to take a proactive step in the defense of the city and to join the local volunteer militia.

Similarly, a group known as the Fellowship of the Cheerful dead is seen moving into the Mausoleum. Despite the group's grim disposition, they seem to be willing to do what's right in order for the dead to be taken care of respectfully.

Another figure overseeing the development of the religious aspect of the Ziggurat is Samael Lashneveous, an extremely dogmatic preacher of Ilmater. Initially interested by the local construction of the Hallways of Hope, Samael has taken a more visible disposition amongst the masses in the hope of strengthening the religious faith of the City.

Finally, An elderly-looking woman going by the name of "Mother Oggla" can seen directing the young and fervent workers to the temple district in which they undertake the long, but worthwhile task of clearing the rubbles from the old shrine of Jannath, long buried amongst the fellow shrines of the District. She is currently installing herself in these new chambers with hope of bringing the people of the Ziggurat closer with the bonds and gifts of The Great Mother, Chauntea.

A few hours ago, a massive group of lizardfolk Raiders was said to have landed upon the docks near the settlement. Many citizens spoke that they were seeking something, something stolen from them and that someone within the settlement was holding it captive. Despite efforts from both sides, a massive battle broke out where Commander Tornincasa and the Battle Priest Martin Farden were seen leading the protectors from the people of the Ziggurat.

They manage to drive the lizards back to the Isle of the Warden where most of the raiders simply dissapeared, swimming away in the water in order to avoid certain death at the end of the adventurers and warriors. No one has seen where they have taken refuge now since then, but maybe wonder when they may.. strike back.

Rumours spread throughout of the settlement of the Ziggurat of a massive brawl erupting within Kingsmen's tavern with multiple wounded, deads and other unaccounted citizens going missing afterward. Little is known of the specifics, but many have seen men of the Stygian Armada storm the place looking for something or someone.

Following the initial deadly altercation, fighting broke down in the streets where several members of the militia were trying their upmost efforts to keep face and enforce their own laws over the Ziggurat. Following the bloodshed, the settlement fell once again extremely silent as most people tried their best to barricade and lock the way to where they have built their primitive homes. Most people too concerned by their own safety to try and uncover the end of this violent altercation between the forces that be around the settlement.

Large tremors could be felt over the Ziggurat as a legion of dogmatic Nightrisers rose from the ground in the templar's district and marched upon the settlement. Many adventurers were summoned and in the end were successful in driving the threat back. Of peculiar interest, however, are the chants of the Nightrisers which spoke of something refer to as the Darkening.

Following this, an older man calling himself the High Prophet summoned a meeting atop the highest point of the Ziggurat enticing many to help him in his search of a way to defeat the Darkening. Many could be seen listening and the average citizens were intrigued by his words and the confidence in his words.

Of similar interest, as the metal from the various artefacts and ornaments littering the grounds of the ruin gets exhausted. Many are seen harboring the forests neighboring the Ziggurat in the hopes of finding sources to supply the settlement. Many speaks that whoever shall control these sources of food, ore and other rare resources, if they exist, will indirectly control the settlement itself...

A large vessel is seen having anchored recently not far from the settlement. It bares neither colours of the Fleet nor of the Stygian Armada. Most people of the settlement become to wonder warily what this may be about..

Earlier this day, A large battlement of wild orcs had surrounded the settlement as the rain continued to pour upon the Isle. Screaming fanatical warcries, the orcan hordes ambushed many citizens walking upon the roads leading to the settlement. All had seem to be but an elaborate diversion for the orcs to enter the city through the water conduits below the city. Pouring from the sewage pipes, waves after waves of orcs smashed upon the shields and swords of the defenders, which despite their best efforts, couldn't contain the orcs and prevent a massacre within the camps from happening. Many citizens died this day, but as only consolation was the piles of orc corpses littering the steps to the Ziggurat.

A group of armored guards said to have come from the ship currently anchored at sea debark toward the conclusion of the invasion and offered their help as a token of good will. Little is known about them, yet rumors that the ship belongs to an important noble house of Old Port spreads across the settlement.

Following the defeat of the orcs at the end of the defenders of the settlement, the Fellowship of the Cheerful Dead was seen walking the streets and picking off the bodies of the fallen to be returned to the mausoleum...

Despite the blood spilled, many inhabitants gaze upward in hope toward better days for the settlement.

Following a brief visit from the House Sharboneth of Old Port, Seekers of Old Sanctuary were seen walking to the Mythallar and taking it by force for the moment of delivering, what they thought to be, an important warning to the people of the settlement explaining the journal of Frederick Bresley, the founder of the Seekers and of Sanctuary had passed through Old Port, approximately 170 years ago, as a slave before being sold to the Drow of Traensyr. For this grave instance, opposition was inevitable or so the seekers thoughts.

Following this exchange of words, the Seeker Lewis, with an air of mad zealotry, insisted all to take arms against any from Old Port forever and always! He, then, call forth deadly magic to assail those of House Sharboneth who had been drawn by the sending... Injuring many, and killing two house guards and a member of the Stygian Armada. After a short battle, the Seekers took off into the forest taking advantage of the cover of the Night to dissapear.

After the incident, a grim-looking southern man dressed in a blood-red outfit was seen asking for details on the assault and offered a steep reward to any who would bring these dangerous madmen to justice.

A large fleet of vessels rumoured to belong to House Sharboneth are seen docking not far off the shore of the Island. Large shipment of supplies and men are then transported to the main land.

Word filters through Sharboneth men that there was a small riot within the Gladiator Pens of Old Port within the past few days. It is said the Count's favourite gladiator, a Half Orc the size of an Orog and twice as savage, is reputed to have escaped during the troubles and swum the waters to the Island proper. A small group of soldiers lead by one of the Count's Rubies was said to have departed for Ymph shortly afterwards.

Two large barges are seen to have laid anchor off the cost of the Ziggurat, and it is widely supposed that they are here to offer ferry for the Grand Tourney that will occur within the week. Shortly afterwards, their crews rowed ashore and proceeded to get famously drunk at the Hanged Goblin. The settlement begins to bustle with excitement, with various small traders and street peformers speaking excidedly with crew members attempting to book preferential passage to the Port.

As the bustle building up to the tourney increases, treasure hunters and wildsmen bring to the settlement fresh rumours of movements of Wild Orcs beyond the mountains. Speaking loudly numbers not seen in generations, most just discount these rumours as the tall tales of half-mad frontiersmen.

Large numbers of Citizens board the great barges docked offshore, and set sail for Old Port in preperation for the Great Tourney. The streets seem quiet, and muted. Late into the evening, a clipper named the Gutted Amnian arrives at the settlement, and begins taking on adventurers, na'e'r do wells and thrill seekers who fancy risking the faster, more dangerous route to the Port.

With the return of the great barges containing the majority of the settlement’s citizenry, rumours spread like wildfire. The tourney itself was rife with political infighting and spectacle. Tales of the Erasmus Ortred’s duel with a lowborn Guardsman over the honour of Count Zarono’s cousin have already become legendary, along with Grand Larson Burkden of the Armada’s subsequent intervention and defeat of the Governor. And yet the spectacle provided for the colonists by the Count has dimmed in the memories of those in attendance already; replaced instead by the fires of the Orcs.

Conflicting rumours are abound of what exactly happened at Old Port last eve. Some claim rabidly that there were no Orcs at all, and that the Slaves were freed by some nefarious group intending to use the revolt to launch a coup. Others say that the Orcs set fire to the city and liberated the slaves from their bondage as a precursor to an attempt to destroy the Port entirely. Whatever the specifics, all can agree upon one thing: Old Port burns. No sooner had the citizens fled Old Port, than dire warnings of an imminent Orcish attack upon the Ziggurat were broadcast by the Governor himself, along with a summons of all citizens of able body to take up weapons in the defence of their home. The reaction was spontaneous. Numerous bodies claiming to be ‘The Militia’ have risen up, all brandishing poor quality (and often homemade) weapons. Flitting between lounging about upon the top of the Ziggurat, launching impromptu salients into the Webbed Wood, and hunting down ‘Orcish Spies’, they are under the nominal authority of Captain Fyoris. However, it is clear to all that they lack the adherence to central authority that is usually required of soldiers, often heading towards the Kingsmen or their homes according to when it suits them. Guardsmen are seen frantically rushing about the Ziggurat, putting up barricades and transporting large amounts of food into the Governor’s Tower. Despite the widespread panic, the promised Orcish invasion has not yet come. However, the Guards keep their eyes stoically turned outwards, although there are some who mutter that their number is precious few against the threat that opposes the Colony.

In the early hours of the morning, four ships set sail for Old Port, and they have not yet returned.

Word spreads quickly among former Sanctuarians that Adelia Tyrell, former Sanctuary Town Councilor and author, was brought up from the Underdark, and rescued by members of The Archaeological Society.

The Colonists are calling it 'Red Eleint'. It began with the Governor departing upon a rumoured ambush upon Orcish forces, deep in the Island. Leaving the gates solumnly with perhaps five men with him, he did not return for many hours. What followed was farce. Within minutes of him leaving, the Stygians, the Colonial Guard and the rag-tag militia gathered under Karzan Fyoris and Tertrach Burkden and marched for the woodlands to the south. The bloody 'Battle of the Webbed Wood' followed. Ambushed by a combined force of Orcs and Men, dozens of the Colonists fell in battle, with the militia taking the largest brunt of the casualties. Captain Fyoris was struck by a perilous blow, and rumours spread that he still lies terribbly wounded, a hair's breath from death. Bodies and the wounded littered the Ziggurat, and barricades were hastily constructed. But the Orcs did not come.

And then there was the Order. In the early hours of the morning, a great war horn resounded from the Gates. Guardsmen, hastily armed commoners and adventurers alike rushed to the walls, only to be greeted with the sight of a column of men, clad in black. Lead by a great bear of a man, it is rumoured they desire to aid the City in its war with the Orcs. He was seen entering the Gates with the Governor, emerging an hour or so later, and ordering his men to make camp. Despite this, the word on everyones lips are the same: When they were within two hours march from the City, why have they not yet come?

Rumours of an attack of giant spiders led by a strange half-man half-boar begin to surface shortly after Kingsman had announced his bounty across the city. The mass of spiders which were lured from the webbed woods to the city gates proceeded to injure all those who stood bravely to defend the gates as well as mortally wounding one or two. Anger, resentment and confusion were on every civilians' lip as to wonder why dangerous beasts such as these wereboar are allowed within the city. To which the guard quickly defended that they were working around the clock to defend the civils from the dangerous monsters that harass, rob or injure them.

In the early hours of the morning, Fleet of the First Bolt departed for Old Port to join a reputed armada that is assembling to deal with the Orcs. No sooner had they set sail, than a thick blanket of mist set across the ships, with the Barren Bitch of Captain Mitrov being the sole ship to emerge from the other side. It was said the Captain made anchor just off the port, but little of consequence can be established.

Some time later, Lord Roderick de Velen returned to the City with a ragged column of men of the Order along with a few weary looking Stygians. Rumours soon begin to spread that the Orcs have gone missing, and that a few isolated columns of guerillas is all that remains of the vast host. A small militia blockade of the Gobsquat has begun, with people darkly muttering that the Goblins have made compact with the hated Orcs.

The day has been a long one. In the early hours of the morning, a small party of Orcs and Men arrived at the Gates of the Ziggurat. A party of Stygians and men of the Order arrived to meet them, and they soon turned to leave. Exactly what was said is unknown to the populace at large, although rumours spread like wildfire: the Orcs claim to bring freedom with them. The urgings of the Orcs to welcome them with open arms have been met with widespread scepticism, and the exact meaning of this message is not entirely clear, although following the delivery, a few families collected their belongings and disappeared into the forests of Ymph.

No sooner had the rumblings of discontent be heard, than Cesare Malatesta was said to have boarded a ship bound for Old Port, and his house scattered to the four winds. However, several of his men have been seen sporting the uniform of House Sharboneth following his departure.

Finally, it is said that following an emergency War Council of the Court, Lord de Velen of the Order has been seen gathering a large force of his own men along with Stygians to his banner, some say in preparation for a great salient against the Orc hosts arrayed before the Colony. More cynical voices have been known to remark that such a move would be nigh-suicidal, no matter the quality of the men who march out to fight.

An earthquake late in the day has rocked the Ziggurat causing no visible damage, but making a many a citizen wonder what may have caused it. Following it, people travelling through the forests and the bogs reported noticing odd and bizarre occurences. Bodies of rotting flesh suddenly waking up and walking toward the city. Mounds of rotting matter forming themselves by the dozens in the Bog and attacking all and any whom would dare venture within... Uncertainty facing these new events certainly leaves more than one civilians of the settlement anxious...

An herald to the Jawed God came to the gates of the city flanked by three enormous masses of rotting matters bringing words of an ancient ritual being slowly perform upon the Isle that would determine the length of the blight that has corrupted parts of the Isle. An unknown assailant wielding a trident tried to take him out before fleeing under the incessant pounding of the mounds of rot. He invited all those with a desire for immortality to join him as the ritual will bring all closer to the divinity, and spoke of a desire to collect organic artefacts known as the "seeds of the Rot God in order to end both the presence of Jawed God on Ymph and the threats in poses to the city. The shambling mounds then proceeded to assault those present in response to hostilities given as many civilians departed toward the unknown into the wild... ...with little knowledge of what happened afterward.

Earlier today, a large column of soldiers from the Stygian Armada and the Order were seen leaving the Ziggurat, and disappearing due east. The atmosphere, already tense has become even worse, with the sorry remnants of the 'militia' and Captain Fyoris' Guard serving as essentially the only defence against the Orcs and the Rot. Citizens speak fearfully of the days to come, with many now refusing to leave the dwellings, or requesting sanctuary upon the Governor's Isle. All requests have been denied.

Word spreads that several days ago, William Bell, Founder of the Archaeological Society went missing while working with Society members to uncover the secrets of the Ziggurat. In his will, Bell asked Adelia Tyrell to take leadership of the Archaeological Society, which she has accepted. While most citizens who hold interest are discouraged by the loss of William Bell, the former denizens of Sanctuary are happy to see Adelia Tyrell take an active role in the community.

A -LARGE- pack of wolves has been preying on a good many animals from the various farmsteads that have sprung up around the ziggurat.  Rumor has it one or two human beings have also been killed and half a dozen wounded, although the reports are sketchy, and the information has varied on quality as the rumors have spread, and the grisly details have become more and more exaggerated with each retelling.

The local druids are silent on the issue, strangely, but express their desire that such matters are left to them.

Some folk stories have  sprung up that if you go into the wilderness at night, and howl as loudly as you can at the night sky, that they will appear...

((reminder to druids/(proper) rangers about THIS THREAD. (//%22http://www.escapefromunderdark.com/forums/showthread.php?t=23758%22)))

A large convoy of cattle, led by a dirty and ragged band of adventurers, makes its way to the front gate, where it is unloaded in a ruined warehouse at the behest of a large, obese merchant. Gossip, amongst the more idle minds of the Ziggurat, spreads. Some speculate the cargo (Ranging from steel swords to fur coats), will be seized by the government for the war effort.

Reports are beginning to flood into the Ziggurat about a ferocious battle at Fort Senuspur. It is said the Orcs have finally come in number, with hundreds falling against the walls of the Fortress. Following hours of grim fighting, the garrison withdrew to the tunnels beneath the Fort, before turning the tide against the depleted Orcish attacks. Standing victorious, the adventurers left what remained of Lord de Velen's garrison to tend to the dead.

Scores of the wounded have been sent to the ruined Temple of Amaunator, which is functioning as something of a hospital. Rife with disease, the beleaguered healers can seemingly do little to prevent the deaths.

Shortly before the battle began, Governor Ortred disappeared with a small retinue of Guardsmen and Stygians and has not yet returned to the Colony. To whence they departed none can say, although it is quietly whispered that he has fled Ymph for Old Port in the face of the overwhelming Orcish threat.

Whatever the circumstances, it is safe to say that thousands of Orcs now roam Ymph, with the host continuing its attacks sporadically. Rumours spread that Lord de Velen is soon to announce a withdrawal, lacking a supply of able men to hold off the baying hordes.

The outlook is bleak. Hundreds of Orcs now roam the Island, with the Militia and Guardsmen desperately attempting to stave back an attack upon the Ziggurat itself. A single glimmer of hope remains in the rumoured expedition from Old Port lead by Commandant Antoine Trenada. It is said that if the Orcs can be held off until his arrival victory is assured. Whatever this optimism is warranted or not, it is safe to say that all sharpen their blades for the days to come.

Upon looking northwards, it is noted by some that the thick columns of smoke rising from Old Port have ceased.

Scared and angered by the recent new declaration of the colony, a small, usually the poorest of the city, are seen making their ways to the mountain. Some say that they were drove away, nevertheless, maybe think they may have left to go reinforce the hordes that lie in wait... and the tilt some more the impending battle that will soon be at the gates in the favor of the Orcs. Others believe they have simply went to established themselves away from tyrannical laws.

Fort Senuspur fell to the Orcs just before dawn yesterday. It is said traitors in the numbers of the defenders allowed Orcish guerrillas to infiltrate, and capture large numbers of the garrison. A few ragged survivors managed to flee the fighting, and rallied a militia of adventurers to retake it. What happened afterwards is confused- a small column was seen heading towards the Wyldwater, only to be bloodily beaten back by overwhelming numbers of Orcs. However, the arrival of Governor Ortred quickly rallied the adventurers, who departed deep into the forests.

No sooner had they disappeared, than war horns blew from Fort Senuspur announcing the recapture of the hill, and the banners of House Sharboneth flew once more. The fighting was bloody, and hours later a retinue of House Sharboneth Guards were seen bringing the broken body of the Governor back to the Colony. Additional whispers quickly spread that Lord de Velen was turned to stone during the fighting, and has yet to be cured by his brothers. With two of the chief war leaders of the Colonists dead or petrified, the Colony has had scarce time to mourn. Fresh rumours of Orcish reinforcements arriving to the eastern marches add to the feeling of impending dread that is slowly growing amongst the populace. No successor to the Governor has yet been appointed, and Emissary Sharboneth is said to have taken control of the Court for the duration of the war.

The rising sense of foreboding causes more eyes to turn to the east, and the promised arrival of Commandant Antoine Trenada. No further word has been received, and some have begun to suggest that perhaps they have been crushed by the Orcs when they attempted to strike south. With no word from Old Port or the Stygians, an increasing number of citizens are demanding the few ships remaining in the Colony strike northwards for Old Port. They have been denied.

Rumours of desertion by the members of militia are heard throughout the city, it seems that with the death of Governor and the impending orc attack, many militia-men were convinced by a Cultist of the Rot God to desert the city and become protected by the Jawed God himself... few members stationed at the gates were seen leaving the city before Captain Fyoris himself, furious, descended upon the cultist with his sword in hand. Although' the two fought for some time, the cultist managed to flee...

As dawn peaks over the horizon, the colonists wake to find scrolls of a text entitled "Fulfilling the Dream, by Adelia Tyrell (http://escapefromunderdark.com/forums/showthread.php?p=105200#post105200)" readily distributed throughout the camp. Some are posted prominently within the Kingsman, and on the walls of the Ziggurat. While Colonial Guards remove rebellious texts from places of prominence, former citizens of Sanctuary privately begin to question Sharboneth's leadership, and the vulnerability of government now that Governor Erasmus Ortred is slain.

Later in the day, Adelia Tyrell was publicly arrested for spreading word of treason. Former citizens of Sanctuary are clearly displeased, but with the threat of orcs, Old Port, and the Stygian Armada, they make no rebellious action. Those colonists who were brought here from Old Port and the Ziggurat praise this move, claiming that Tyrell was nothing more than an anarchist and traitor. Many former members of the Archaeological Society criticize Tyrell of swaying from William Bell's vision of political neutrality, while others quietly support her ideas of rebellion. The last group of individuals subscribe to the name Luminary Social Club (http://www.escapefromunderdark.com/forums/showthread.php?p=105338#post105338), and claim to carry out Tyrell's dream of peaceful revolution.

The War of Red Eleint has finally drawn to a bloody close.

What exactly happened is still unknown, marred by confusion and misinformation. It is commonly agreed, however, that this day has been the single bloodiest of the war. It began with rumours of fresh fighting at Fort Senuspur arriving at the gates, followed by whispers of the Orcs finally moving to topple the Ziggurat. Soon afterwards, Zakarias Sharboneth announced that the procedure for evacuation was to be begun, and that all residents of the Colony were to take refuge immediately upon the Governor's Isle.

No sooner had the announcement been sent, that the firebrand Tetrarch of the Stygian Armada, Grand Larson Burkden began recruiting what remained of the armed soldiers in the Ziggurat in an attempt to take the fight to the Orcs. Abandoning the citizenry to its fate, Burkden lead a force of roughly sixty men into the Webbed wood. Hours of desperate fighting followed, as thousands of Orcs fell upon the beleaguered host. Midway through, horns resounded from Fort Senuspur indicating it had once more been retaken and the heavy artillery began to fall upon the Orcish hordes.

Many hours after they first departed, Burkden's force returned to the Ziggurat blooded and demoralised. Heavy, mad fighting followed as they desperately attempted to repulse the tide of Orcs which swept over them. Just as they made their grim final sound, horns resounded from the Webbed Wood signalling the arrival of the cavalry of Commandant Antoine Trenada. They routed the Orcs utterly.

As for the Spirit That Sings, no sign has yet been seen of the warlord. Rumours suggest that the mysterious black armoured warrior who was spotted slaying Orcs in their dozens during the battle was responsible for his death, although others have said the cowardly Orc fled once more upon the collapse of his host.

Whatever the truth, it is widely accepted that until a body is discovered, it can be assumed that he remains dangerous and at large.

A terrible event hit the Colony on this day. An explosion rocked the foundry, creating a wave of panic throughout the city as people flooded to it... During this time, it is said that a lone assailant infiltrated the Guard Fortress and assassinated Ruby Vizu Nemari and a Sharboneth Guard. Due to his sacrifice, the Emissary Zakarias Sharboneth was able to flee to the Governor's tower which has been sealed off ever since the attack...

Nobody seems to know what to make of the attack...

Recent reports of strange creature sightings in the eastern ruins circulate the Ziggurat. Some claim them to be in cahoots with the Nightrisers, who are now plotting a day invasion of the Ziggurat to exterminate man once and for all, while others speculate they are animals, terribly transformed by ancient wizards in their vile experiments. Others still dismiss such claims as the ramblings of drunkards. The usual reports of disappearances continue to circulate

On Marpenoth 15's night, a strange and eery vision of a giant undead warrior upon the summit of the Ziggurat. It delivered words that the blades of its fallen warriors were stored inside the tower of the governor and that their return and the subsequent respect given to the ancient warriors of Targus by honouring their past battles would open the fifth Blade for a warrior to wield and gain the power of Zhanarruk at his/her disposal for one last glorious melee.

Following these words, the spirit dissapeared and Nightriser warriors started warping all around the ziggurats engaging civilians, guards and adventurers in a chaotic battle. Many people headed afterward toward the governor's tower where more nightrisers warped in to battle and assault the tower. After the lengthy battle, explosions within the tower were heard and a lone rat-man was seen leaping from 15 meters down unto the ground with a large bag unto his shoulder. Many tried to pursue but lost him soon afterward...

Many questions are asked by citizen and guards alike regarding its origin and purpose and tying the assassination of the Ruby to this same individual.

Citizens make note of the rapid construction taking place on the dilapidated Amauntor Temple. Whispers abound as to what the purpose of it could be, though most are in agreeance that the High Justice frequently stops in to see the progress, and suspect that a deal of coin may be coming from him directly.

Yesterday eve, men in Sharboneth uniforms arrived upon the Ziggurat. Their Captain, a man in ornate and foppish looking uniform, immediately departed for the Governor's Isle and was not seen for several hours. Several hours later, he was seen in loud argument with Karzan Fyoris shortly before the two disappeared into the Guard House. They have not yet emerged.

The Ziggurat's portal opened today, welcoming to the community an unusual arrival. A huge, lumbering, and badly-wounded lizard beast with a mace for a tail was reported by many to have angrily attacked and injured a handful of residents, and was then lead away into the island's wilderness by a Chultan druid, murmuring foreign chants.

The white-hulled Seagle arrived in port today. The first to disembark was a party of bodyguards surrounding a small, beautiful girl and her blue-blooded mother. They went directly to Kingsman's where the girl was said to play heavenly music on her harp. The performance was brutally interrupted by a madman with an axe who instantly slew the girl, then whisked her body away. People tut over and mourn the girl, cursing the axeman for purveying such evil and destroying something so lovely and innocent.

Colonists speak earnestly of Isengrim Sharboneth proclaiming himself the new Captain of the Guard today, atop the Ziggurat. He was said to have then rallied townspeople to follow him to the Gates, where he and the Dogshead were said to exchange words before the Dogshead ultimately laid down his arms and came quietly on charges of treason.

The new Captain of the Guard, Isengrim, has promised that in the following days and weeks many changes are to be announced and further traitors to be rooted out.

As the corpse of the Colonial Guard begins to fester, the citizenry consider the tumulus past few days.

It began with the death of Conrad de Sonnac at the hands of the Fellowship of the Cheerful Dead in a duel meant to settle the matter of the Fellowship publicly for all to see. With the champion's death, many citizens took to the streets in anger, with the disturbances eventually coming to a head at the Mausoleum. The mob attacked the Fellowship upon their home ground, leading to the deaths of several people, both Fellows and rioters. Order was eventually restored by the Colonial Guard, but not before the Fellowship were driven from the Ziggurat.

The next day heralded the trial of Karzan Fyoris and his alleged co-conspirators. Finding the Captain innocent of all charges, but resting a heavy responsibility for the treachery of his men upon his shoulders, Eumond Hamuramos put an end to an incident which caused heightened tensions over the fate of one of the heroes of Red Eleint.

Finally, upon Uktar 8 the relatively unknown person of Isengrim Sharboneth addressed the Colony upon the matters of the Guard. Delivering a short speech, he announced that it was Karzan Fyoris' wish that he step down from the Captaincy, before dropping the unexpected revelation that the Colonial Guard was to be disbanded within the three-day.

The citizenry has taken this news with a surprising degree of nonchalence, although a small and vocal minority remains in advocacy of the deposed Captain Fyoris. In addition, rumours have begin to sprout of a flotilla of ships from Old Port seen embarking in the direction of the Colony.

Regular ships are arriving from Old Port, disgorging large groups of poorly clad men and women. The crowds struggle to find adequate housing, cramming themselves into the interior chambers of the Ziggurat.

The new arrivals say there's little to no work in Old Port, and that in the Colony at least they'll find employment through the work-crews, even if they are only barely paid for laboring in cutting trees, hauling rubble, or performing some other service for House Sharboneth.

Lack of adequate space and nourishment begins to become a common complaint. Although Kingsman's remains as clean as ever, few other than sellswords and treasure-hunters have been able to afford staying there every night.

Today, a group of men calling themselves the "Nine Hundred Brothers" came ashore in the Docks District, and spared no time in claiming a piece of land, where they quickly began to repair and rebuild a decrepit building, claiming it for their own.

They claim to be there on authority by the Count to oversee the repair and rebuilding of the Docks District, and to help maintain order within it.

Rumors speak that their leader is a Gnome, despite the rest of the company being of human birth. Other than this, little is known of their structure or numbers, though they seem to be plentiful.

Word spreads that the Church of Lathander performed various rituals in the Docks district that supposedly will get rid of the nightly presence of Nightrisers. Although accounts garbled, it's said that the notable Patrician Montgomery Proversion was vital to this effort. Some also whisper that the Lathanderites made a mistake, and only warded a few of the access points to the region, but most seem happy that, for now, the Nightrisers in that area appear to have been dealt with.

Work crews are busily cutting down trees in the region, and working on hastening the repair of buildings.

Gathering nearly many citizens and adventurers to the top of the Ziggurat, a man named Tortus d'Vo gave short speech denouncing the Order, and verbally attacked a presiding Footman. Several civilians revealed themselves as his followers, and they called themselves The Witnesses. Tortus was said to, with his presence, prevent events from turning to voilence.

Nevertheless, a Sharboneth Armsman attempted to arrest the speaker. d'Vo claimed that to arrest him is to arrest all citizens, and as proof, the Witnesses (common folk from the look of them) came with him to the Citadel, along with many loud, outspoken, and enraged citizens.

After several minutes, the mob re-emerged, cheering. Several angry Retainers were seen heading to Kingman's thereafter.

Some common folk of the Ziggurat say such things as:
"I cannot believe our Guards would arrest people for simply speaking their minds!"
"It's true, the Order worship strange gods. I doubt they are actually the Triad."
"How absurd, the Order shed blood for us at Red Elient. Hell, their Commander was mortally cursed at the defense of Senuspur Hill, I heard. How can anybody believe nonsense about them being traitorous?"

With the completion of their barracks, the Nine Hundred Brothers begin to empty their docked boats of their numerous members.

Dozens of men begin to trickle into the Docks, all wearing the mottled brown of their company..

The Docks continue to undergo continued construction, as trees are cut and buildings go up..

Accounts of the Nine Hundred Brothers picking fights with passerby's become more common, and more than a single tale is told of brawls in the streets, between these men and colonists.

Business in The Ziggurat's modest marketplace was disrupted when a Dwarven bandit, obscured by magics and wielding a flaming axe, is said to have set upon the colony's most prominent Merchant, Escevar Malatesta. Rumour would have it that the assailant took little and left only a note, before subduing a score of Sharboneth's Armsmen and making off.

The Ziggurat's merchants now appear to be frightened and angry, clamouring for additional guards in the name of economic wellbeing, and decrying the rise of unsavoury elements in the Colony since the revitalisation of its Docks.

Every corner, nook, and cranny of the island experiences a seemingly impossible event.  An enormous swarm of tiny, seemingly harmless, black and green spiders appear out of nowhere, spreading out and crawling over everything. They linger for a few moments, and then suddenly retreat to the darkness and burrow underground just as quickly as they appeared.

Women screamed, children cried, and men tried stomping on every  surface, but all the spiders seemed unaffected by anyone's efforts.  As they leave, citizens are left with a sense of shock and awe and an overwhelming feeling of confusion.  Some say "plague," others pray to gods, and a few more just go back to chopping wood and cooking dinner.

It is said that for the first time in the Colony's history, a group of adventurers ventured below into the Underdark in search of glory, riches, and wisdom.

What went on below is a secret held only by those who took the perilous journey, it is known that fewer returned than left by a good margin, and that the group was lead by the "Mystic" Zulfiqar, Veteran of Red Eleint and well known dervish.

Rumors speculate that any group which has been to the underdark and back must be teeming with secrets, and riches.

This morn, a ship made dock at the Colony bearing many kegs of ale and stores of food, along with two large tents and other miscilanious supplies. Talk of a tourney to held held upon Ymph is rife in the Colony, with many citizens excitedly looking forward to the announcement.

Citizens are also beggining to comment upon how tired and worn most Sharboneth men look these days. Having recently moved in small number into the Docks district, many begin loudly wondering how much longer Isengrim can maintain control of the Colony without the overt support of either the Order or the Stygian Armada.

Citizens can notice wooden cages being setup at the main gates and beasts, monstrous humanoids and other sorts of fearsome creatures being rounded up, sedated and caged within by members of the Stygian Armada.

Many hear rumors of raid across the isle and the capture of a great many beasts of the fauna of Ymph including a gigantic Great Lizard, and an exotic Saber-tooth tiger amongst its greatest catches.

Some say that the beasts are meant to be trained to serve as engines of war, others say they will most likely be shipped to Old Port and used in some gladiatoresque games to be seen whole before the city.

Whatever it may be, many dwellers of the wild seem troubled by these actions and do not hesitate to show their disapproval before the eyes of the masses.

Word spreads of how a large group of laborers have been put to work clearing a field and erecting tents and structures for Lord Alemander's tournament, to the south of the Main Gate.

A menacing blue portal appears atop the Ziggurat. Many adventurers are seen entering, yet not all of them are seen to have returned.

Eventually, rumour has it, a wizard by the name of Craddock along with some assistants dispelled the portal, but not before managing to have it spurt out various hellish creatures upon the colony.

The day has been fraught. What began with Grand Vizier Sardistan summoning a variety of colourful foes for Champions to slay ended with a chaotic Orc Hunt. It is believed that remnants of the Host of the Spirit struck the hunt and drew many of the freed Orcs to their banner. Nevertheless, the hunt triumphed and vanquished the remnant warband, with a Sir Sylverbrook and a savage northman drawing particular praise from the ranks of the hunt.

It is rumoured that Lord Alemander Sharboneth swore in his Court this eve, only to have the session loudly interrupted by General 'Longshanks' Berrupo. The General was seen angrily leaving the Governor's Tower shortly afterwards- and Lord Alemander was said to have departed for Old Port immediately following. However, the content of their discussion remains the content of much debate. However, many of the newly inducted Courtiers were seen to be visibly disturbed as they left the Isle, and it is widely said that whatever occurred within can mean no good for the nascent Colonial Government.

Rumours quickly spread that the body of a Sir Alexandre Storne, a personal friend of the Lord Regent was discovered in the Kingsman. Several children are also noted to have gone missing since the Tourney's advent. There are those who blame the Tribe of Mummers who have made camp near the Tourney grounds, claiming they use the blood of innocents for their strange magics, although this is refuted by most.

Word spreads that some Dog Fighting was held at the Tournament Grounds as part of the Festivities. Some protested it as cruel, though most were quick to shun them.

In addition to the dog fighting, it is said a few things of note happened. Firstly, that a kobold snuck in to watch, and was promptly put down by the large group.

Secondly, that a Divine Feud erupted between two priests, one of Torm and the other of the Reaver. During a duel, the Bloodletter was put down, and summarily executed.

Only a few notice through the hubub and excitement of the tourney that a dozen citizens leave without a word but with ample provisions on the heels of the enigmatic Tortus d'Vo, heading towards the mountains.

The Grand Colonial Tournament has drawn to a close. The events of the Jousting Tournament spread throughout the Colony on the tongues of every barkeep, drunkard, fishwife and whore.

Twelve men entered into the Jousting, including Old Port Nobleman Sir Cristopher Brunel, noted Knight Sir Regis the Regal, and several other well knowns. Along with them, were a smattering of the Colonies best warriors.

The Order and Stygians made impressive showings, both of their riders making it to the final melee. Their glory was short lived, however, as Sir Cristopher, Sir Regis and newly made colony hero, Stefan "Wyrmslayer" Baden were the last three standing in the final, mounted grand melee.

Eventually, Sir Cristopher took the day as Champion. For his prize, he was granted protectorate of the farmlands, and announced he shall build an estate near Johan's Mill, from where he shall oversee prosperity for the Colonies graineries.

Baden Wyrmslayer, as second was granted patricianship, it is said. All told, the Colony seems to have greatly enjoyed the Tourny, and House Sharboneth is enjoying a fresh wave of popularity amongst the people.

Both the Nine Hundred Brothers Company and House Sharboneth appear upon high altert. The Stygian Armada are said to have bought in ten extra men from Old Port. Rumours of brawls between Sharboneth Men and the Brothers are rife. Finally, people begin to say that General Longshanks requested a huge sum from the Court in payment for services offered during the war, threatening uprising if the sum was not met by the tenday. The Numinous Order, strangely, appears aloof from concerns- their number rarely bothering to visit the Docklands at all.

Many rumours are spread across the colony that the Blade, once held in the Shrine of Targus and rumoured to belonged to the entity of the God of War, has been removed.

Aside from the usual thunderstorm, all seems quiet and peaceful. Nevertheless, most people can't help but feel a slight anxiety by what this may entail...

Gossip spreads from the Docks to the Taverns of the Colony of a brutal brawl at the edge of The Brothers' territory, with the experienced mercenaries proving the victor.

Rumours spread throughout the colony of a great celebration far from the colony, yet close at the same time where warriors fought for both immortality in their name, glory, greed or honour. Little is known of the outcome of these battles, but everyone seems to be curious about what truly went down in these realms and who were the ones who fought...

Rumours spread through the colony of an ambitious attack upon the governor's tower. Various high-ranking prisoners held in the tower are rumoured to have escaped due to it as the Sharboneth do their best to cover up this affair.

It is said that a were-rat, a vicious lycanthrope, entered the tower at night and managed to severely injure a Ruby before escaping with the many soldiers of the Sharboneth and Armada on his heels. Little else is spoken in public about this incident..

Word spreads in the inns and taverns of a noteworthy incident in the Old Port, a great heist performed in the middle of the night causing great chaos in the streets.

Many nobles are said to have lost a small fortune in the series of incidents, the perpetrators, in a bizarre twist  giving much of the stolen property such as jewellery and bars of gold to street vagrants in the middle of the night.

A few of these newly rich vagrants were shot dead in the usually quiet back alleys by a man in plain clothing, widely rumoured to have been a Ruby. However many of them seem to have escaped, as did the perpetrators.

Rumours speak of a direct conflict between the Lathanderites and the 900 hundred brothers in the docks that subsequently escalated with the bombing of the Guild House and the incineration of the one of the Nine Hundred's Boat.

Although' no one has seen the perpetrators of these explosives incident, but they have done nothing but accentuate the already tense situations with many refugees dying on the boat's fire.

Word spreads that General Beruppo delivered a speech in the Docks declaring retribution for the destruction of one of his ships bearing women and children. Two Sharboneth Men were bound, gagged and hung in nooses.

However, several Sharboneth Retainers and sympathizers attempted to disrupt the proceedings, and save the men. Unfortunately, their attack was ill executed and they were swiftly cut down.

Taking this as an act of war, General Beruppo declared the Docks to be his territory, and vowed to get his money from it if he must pillage it to the ground.

Disturbingly, his men have blocked travel to and from the Governor's Tower

Last eve, Antoine Trenada and a large cadre of hardened Stygians arrived upon Ymph. Following a short sending to the Colony, it is said the Commandant began preparing his Stygians for war, although it is noted that even with the fresh reinforcements, the forces of the Colony are hopelessly outmatched by the 900 Brothers.

As the sun rises over Ymph, the Nine Hundred Brothers Company begins to heavily arm, with many of their membership parading around the Docks in preparing for battle. The troubles began when Commandant Antoine Trenada challenged General Berrupo to a duel before the Gates of the Colony. The venerable Commandant stood victorious, only to reveal a betrayal in his moment of victory. Calling for his men to sound a great warhorn, only to hear a reply from the Governor's Isle resound throughout the Colony.

Following the sounding of the horns, the Numinous Order and a Militia of Adventurers emerged into the heart of the Mercenary lines, cutting down all in their wake. Minutes of desperate fighting followed, with Marshal Sharboneth and his garrison taking advantage of the fighting to steal their way back to friendly lines. Following the Marshal's return to the Colony proper, the Order and their allies withdrew to the Ziggurat. Arriving at the front, Commandant Trenada proudly announced that General Berrupo had been captured following the duel. In response, Colonel Dombrowski began executing several prisoners following some short negotiations. In the wake of the fighting, it is clear that the Nine Hundred Brothers retain the vanguard of their strength, and that heavy fighting remains a possibility, peaking its head just over the horizon.

Rumours spread that a ship arrived upon Ymph last eve, although many noted that it appeared to be largely unmanned. Exactly who was onboard these ships, and what their business upon Ymph was is unknown. However, it is whispered that the personal banner of Alemander Sharboneth was spotted as it passed the docks- although this is largely discounted as supposition and rumour.

A rather routine gathering took place upon the auctioning block of old port, it is told by deckhands and boatswains in the inner pier. Numerous individuals both citizen and Patrician of the colony made way for the fine "wares" of Gustavo, fare ranging from Ogres to exotic women up for bidding.

Cheerful business was had by all until things turned southward around Dawn. Heated words broke out amidst a war for a young woman suited for a Harem as two men and a woman were bidding furiously upon her flesh. A pair of strangers appeared, weapons were drawn, and chaos erupted. It is said that in the ensuing melee a pair of men were killed, others say dozens. Regardless of number a heavily bloodied and perforated Gustavo was seen speaking with a Stygian Infantrymen holding a blue winged helm, "Seeker" the word upon everyone's tongue...

Last eve, as the Bloodsky settled into dusk into night, trouble brewed. A vicious wind beset the Ziggurat for a short period of time before increasing in intensity.

As the moon reached its highest point a foul scent of death and decay befell it, turning the air around the Ziggurat fetid and stagnant, smelling of fresh death and old filthy corpses. Twisted and rotting hunks of tree and vine were said to lumber forward from the Webbed wood and begin attacking men and women at the edge of the forest or even the gates themselves.

It is said that numerous set off from the gates and discovered a ritual of sorts. Unknown the cause, its presence angered the Bog creatures, and some would presume even the bogs themselves.

Something, Someone, has drawn its ire... for what ends and to what extent, remains to be seen...

The infamous Tresor Mortimer has been spotted wandering around the sewers.  

Some say he has an army of rats who follow him everywhere he goes.  This has led to suspicion that he, in fact, is a wererat himself.  

Some say he is simply a powerful druid, and has been sent to ensure balance in the underworld.

Some say he is a good man who has been persecuted into hiding and is simply trying to live as best he can.

But one thing is for certain, as the bodies of the bounty hunters and guardsmen rack up (all turning up with thousands of bite marks to their name), he is -still- at large.

And the bounty, has now been raised...

In something completely gone awry last eve, shortly after a footmen, Sharboneth retainer and other adventurers are seen making for the webbed wood, all hell broke loose.

Fire was seen spurting almost like a volcano through the air, landing upon the Sloped road, webbed wood, and the bog itself.

As wildfires spread rampantly the ground trembled and chaos came upon its crest.  Creatures of the bog spewed forth and were driven back as fire rained upon the Gates.

It is said that the Numinous Order rallied Stygian and Sharboneth alike and lead the group to the Bog where for numerous hours fires were fought, beasts were slain, and eventually the Bogs returned to a heavily scorched peace.

Word spreads much as the wildfires did, of a warning offered to some of the Adventurers. A warning of greater things to come. A warning of demands for appeasement. A warning most grim...

Reports slowly make their way to the Stygians and House Sharboneth of men, women, and children slowly going missing over the last two days...

Almost over night, Horror gripped the Ziggurat.

Disease quickly ran rampant some stating that it was caused by the Colony itself refusing to offer 8 live beings to the Rot for troubles caused by the Order on their reccent patrols.

Numerous civilians and citizens even some Patricians and alleged cases of it amongst the Governor's tower.

As the Hours drew on into the morning dozens died at the behest of this swiftly spreading, violent, disease.

It is said that a Cure was obtained when a Stygian by the name of Helder offered himself up to the Rot with numerous commoners speaking that he is no longer one "Of Us" but a twisted monster serving the Bogs.  "A second Herald of the Rot has been proclaimed" upon their lips.

The Citizenry struggling to recover from this horrific evening as many flock to Mother Oolga's for the Cure.

Word quickly spreading of Stygians outraged, Armsmen murmuring the name "Berimund", and suspicions slowly arising amongst the Ziggurat of who else may or may not be infected by  the Rot's foul touch..

Shock and Awe.

Only two words of many to describe the reccent sweeping of rumor and Gossip.

The black and white clad villain who worked for the infamous "Upright man",not only claimed the life of Prior Blake allegedly as well as the freeing of the 900 Brother's general, numerous slayings, and countless other criminal activities...

...was Patrician Aubrey Craddock.

Bewildered and terrified men and women who frequented the Docks, angered and betrayed armsmen of Sharboneth, disgruntled and volitile Stygians.

Yet another in the long history of two-faced criminals posing as caring Patricians, none had the brutal efficiency that Craddock

it is commonly believed that things in the underworld are about to get very, very bloody, as a "New Puppet" of the Uprightman will struggle to emerge...

Time will only tell when this will occur but rumor has it that another ruby has been seen recently arriving within the Colony.

For what purpose remains to be seen...

Rumours spread regarding  attacks on travelling merchants and other persons of wealth in Ymph. Slave owners in particular have been captured and executed in a horrific manner while the slaves have been released and told tales of a bearded man leading the vicious ambushes.

That bearded man is widely believed to be the escaped convict and former pirate Xisco, who orchestrated a violent escape from the Old Port penitentiary some months back, a day before his planned execution.

Given the sheer amount of Citizens present, word spreads rampantly

Fires, Rots, and Loose Women.

In an "allegedly" attempted assassination, a Rot Cultist attempted to slay the Courtier Proverson. Thwarted by an Armsman and Stygian the Rot Cultist proceeded to erupt into flame after vines spewed from her corpse.

In the ensuing chaos the Proverson Merchanthouse burned, the Man himself panicking and running through the streets some dock workers say, sounding like a woman in distress, proclaiming "Free Coin!" to any who would aid. It stands still, though damage estimates are still unsure. Thankfully many Dockworkers and citizens threw their aid to the troubled Courtier, keeping the Flames from spreading to other buildings.

Shortly after the flames subsided the Courtier informed those who aided to make for the Kingsman for an announcement of sorts. Business had never been better. Ale flowing relentlsesly and wine by the barrel brought up to satiate the thirsting Dockfolk.

It appears the Rot Cultist had -worked- for kingsman. When the Courtier announced this ale spewed forth from every single man and woman, some inducing vomiting. Shortly thereafter a small riot appear to break out, numerous Armsmen having to subdue them from hanging the Kingsman and Courtier.

The tone of the room slowly changed from that of rage to optimism, the Lingusitic skills that earned him a Courtier's seat turning it into an impromtu discussion of the Morrow's "War".

It is unsure what fate will befall the Kingsman, nor is it clear the extent of how bad his business will be damaged.

Elsewhere, Stephan "The Wyvernslayer" Baden, the local hero of the Ziggurat was publicly pursued by four to ten young, nubile girls, depending on who is asked. It is said he is expected to take field and assist the Order in their crusade and when he made sending to rally allies he was besieged by another kind of "Army".

Some say he got a heroes reward.

Others...A Hero's goodbye.

Needless to say the Colony is on edge. Tomorrow is a day that none will forget...Should they survive.

The Numinous Order: Shattered

The Court: Down two members

The Magistrates: Slaughtered

The "Impi": Scattered

The Rot: Stronger than ever despite the Bogs being burned to near ash

It is said that Dakarai, "Destroyer of Men", claimed at least ten lives of prominent figures, ranging from the heroic "Wyvernslayer" Baden to Dame Kassarack herself. Scattered murmurs echo far and wide that despite the Dreamstalkers menacing presence he is the true power of the Impi.

The Webbed wood lays littered with corpses both of Order and Adventurer.

The Order succeeded in its objective to bring flame to the Bog but it appears to have been a grand trap as the very few, perhaps even three, survivors of the massacre saying that their retreat was cut off in a trap.

The Rot Herald has once more been slain, Berimund and Helder alike leaving many strong warriors on edge. Two men of grand strength taken under the sway. Warriors and Sellswords alike grow fearful that they may next be taken for their prowess, Dueling amongst the ziggurat at an all time low.

It is said that the Order fractured. Kassarack and her men disobeying the "Cause" and taking up the charge themselves, resulting in them having may fifty men while the rest of the Order cleared itself from the Zigurrat.

The Cloister has no remnants of existence. The Temple district a bit quieter. The dark a bit darker.  It is said the Mountains shall hold the Refuge of the Numinous Order as the days of past. Up in the Mist where they thrive, Hunting the Orcs and pursuing rumors of the Iron Jaw's presence.

As the colony mourns the loss, word spreads that massive investigations are upon the horizon by the Armsmen and Retainers of House Sharboneth. It seems not even in death do the heroes and citizens of the Ziggurat find peace.

A bit of a commotion is caused at the crack of dawn as a wagon unloaded a statue of a man named Xisco next to the main gates of the Ziggurat. Armsmen of House Sharboneth rushed to the scene while the man responsible for this deed captivated the crowd and particularly the commons, not so much by his words, but by showering the attendance with gold, said to have come from vanquished slavers and oppressors as a gift from Xisco.

This was not to last, however, as the crowd dispersed at the sight of some dark clad men and the armsmen arrested the crier responsible for the mischief. The statue now lies toppled over.

A rambunctious and trouble making Sergeant by the name of Rawlins was shackled and dragged bloody to the Courthouse.

As dozens of charges were being leveed and a parade of witnesses showed up, things were quickly disrupted by the arrival of one of the Count's own, a Ruby.

After a few short, but harsh words were traded, the Sergeant was released.

A short time later a pair of Rubies were seen marching on the Governor's tower.

QuoteWord quickly spreads of a controversy between the Stygian Armada and house of Sharboneth brewing. It is said that the problem stems from the Saughin presence amongst the colony, ranging from idle threats to hands being eaten

QuoteThe Seekers once more spew upon the gossip of the colony, reportedly ransacking the Hallway of hope. The priest being bludgeoned unconscious and the heroic knight-esque Baron von Matterheim of the once Underdark run through. He was in high spirits upon his unaturally swift recovery, stating "I never did trust those seekers. This is a lovely place for a nap, however"

Late in the evening, a resonating bellow was heard from the top of the Ziggurat.

"THE OLD PRINCE IS NO FISH!"

Moments later it was followed by the following:

Quote"BY THE NINE! HIS ARM IS GONE!"

"GODS HELP US! HIS HEAD IS REMOVED!"

"STOP THIS MADNESS!"

With news of the recent conflict between the Stygian division of Shark-men and the house of Sharboneth, the monsterous and menacing Inquisitor Shark'all of Sekah began a blood tear through the colony. It is noted that the Old Prince was not attacked first but tookinsults upon his honor as an act of War and began tearing through anything that seemed to look at him wrongly.

Amidst the carnage of dozens of Sharboneth Deputies being hurled about like rag dolls, Various dwarves being literally eaten hand over fist, and vicious maulings of faces being peeled by his teeth, the Old Prince himself was seen upon the Ziggurat.

As the conflict ceased the Prince continued to demand the identiy of those who attacked his men, as well as those who "Continue to insult the Shark".

A distressed courtier Proverson with an Arsmman escort was seen making for the Governor's Tower for the second time, the first after the Grand Larson Burkden marched upon the Citadel.

Needless to say, things between the House of Sharboneth and the Stygian Armada have gone from ambivalent to near catastrophic in a mater of a day or shortly over. Few can tell what shall come next...

Terror. The only word to describe the events that unfolded last eve. A slow and steady stream of reports had been coming for some time to the Stygians and house of Sharboneth about the actions of the Werebeast Cruloch.

The evening began with word quickly reaching the gates of a group of adventurers downed in the foothill path, and shortly after all hell broke loose.

Men, both Sharboneth and Stygian, along with literally dozens of adventurers took to the gates and surrounding areas in a drastic and dramatic hunt of the Beast. As the howls of war descended upon the ziggurat individuals were splayed about grievously. In the name of the Beastlord the blood flowed, and the Pard was pleased.

As the night wore on the Beasts tactics reflected his desires. He began with maimings and woundings to draw out the pack, and then began to slay them  one, by one, by one.

After one of his human allies was killed, and one of them tried and executed, his tactics further became barbaric going so far as to attack the gates themselves only to retreat and pick off those brave, foolish souls seeking glory.

By eve's end as the sun rose over the horizon the beast lay dead, his skin missing, and his corpse piked upon the gates.

In the horizon of the Docks, a naval battle is seen to unfold. A ship bearing Old Port's flag took chase after a pirate vessel that is thought to belong to the notorious Red Titans led by an Argenti desert man. Soon after the Old Port Destroyer began to fire its explosive ballistas, it was inexplicably silenced. Soon thereafter, the Old Port Destroyer went down in flames.

Two survivors swum to the beaches of the Docks, and rescued by adventurers from the Ziggurat. They then made their way to the Governor's Tower, and were overheard speaking of an inhumanly strong, masked swordsman in ancient armour that jumped across ships and turned the tide of battle.

Rumor has it that the elders of the local Stargazer Tribes have made a declaration of emergency. Atop their treetop villages, Stargazers are seen preparing equipment and people, as if they were expecting imminent battle. Every night, Stargazers are caught watching the stars with great vigilance.

An invasion most dire hit the colony on this night. Nightrisers pouring from the sewer and enhanced by the very fury that possessed them to attack killed a great many guards and adventurers.

More concerning were the words of an undead cavalier who appeared before and after the battle claiming a greater onslaught upon the city upon a day without sunlight that was approaching if his conditions were not met... What the conditions were? The rumours spread across the citizenry are vague and imprecise on that account...

Martel Sharboneth, Chief Retainer of the House Sharboneth is said to have arisen upon the Isle.

After being escorted to the Governor's tower and word being spread he had an announcement, an irate Burkden arrived speaking oddly cordial with the man, despite recent rumors of Stygian/Sharboneth conflict.

He spoke of the economic Hardships befalling the House, but also a call for Adventurers and others to seek to empower the House. Exploration and various ventures into the Wilds. The rare peace has turned the Colony inward, and he appeared to be present upon the isle to press it outwards, offering wealth, prestige, as well as posts within the house as a Retainer. Awkward glances were thrown about as he spoke of possible enslavement of the Stagazers, of the Tribals that fled with Gaeseric, and others who "Refuse to contribute to civilized life" as the House of Sharboneth expanded outwards with the assistance of the Stygian armada.

Most well received however, was his word that in two days time, the Court of the Governor will be brought into its Third Session.

Local jungle cats appear to be restless, and have even been reported to have made hostile advances against their allies, the Stargazers. It is said that Stargazer Elder Otoroo's pet jungle cat has run away from Starwood, after leaving bloody scars on the elder's chest.

Political conflict continues to be spurned onward. The Stygians and House Sharboneth had yet another arms-drawn-threats-tossed meeting, this time upon the edge of the stairs of the docks district.

Stories are numerous and varied but for the most part it seems that a Patrician was taken captive by a pair of Stygians and in the negotiation for his return, the Stygians were suspended of their court seat in the upcoming Third Court.

This time the Governor himself was involved in negotiation and upon departure the Grand Larson was heard spewing curses and threats of Count involvement, nearly knocking his own men down the stairs as he stormed to the barracks.

Tension continues to mount and tempers run high.

With the commencement of the hunting season, a great hunt is held in honour of the murdered Sharboneth retainer Faubert. The hunt is overshadowed by political events, but a giant bear released in the wilds is slain at the gates by a contingent of armsmen.

Hunters from Old Port and beyond are seen arriving at the Ziggurat, ready to pluck Ymph's unique and challenging fauna.

The colonists of Ymph take note that a red star can now be seen among the galaxies of the night sky. For every few hours that pass, the star appears to become brighter. By now, it clearly has become the most luminescent object in the night sky. Some colonists have begun to call it the Eye of the Devil, or interpret this as a sign of the apocalypse.

The Third Colonial court was announced amidst a whirling storm and a massive Elemental of pure water.

The Umberleean Priest Korgan, representing the Old Port cathedral to Umberlee

Captain Seamus of the Leviathan's Lament

Stygian Trannyth, suspended from service pending reparations to the Colony in terms of deed and action on behalf of the Armada

Armman Shepard, representing the Marshal Sharboneth

Courtier Proverson, for continued political and merchantile assistance to the HOuse of Sharboneth.

On this day, the bright red star in the sky came streaming down to Earth in form of meteorite. It landed near Starwood, forming a large crater that has charred the Earth around it. Stargazers and colonists alike ran to the scene, to find one distinct detail in the wreckage. At the vertex of the crater rests a circle of undying flame. Both Stargazers and Colonists have been alarmed by these turn of events, and many theories arise at the local taverns. Among these rumors, the most popular is one that claims a demon has landed on Ymph. Some adventurers have even claimed to have defeated it in combat.

A vessel can be seen moored off the docks.

Not the largest vessel ever seen, nor the most attractive, but it looks to be well maintained given age and rather sturdy. Any expert of nautical business would note that its design and make are built for sea speed. A raiding vessel.

Rumor has it that it is an old pirate vessel purchased for an old Fishing captain that was said to even outrun the Stygian war ships, then won by Isengrim Sharboneth in a card game.

Emblazoned upon the side in large letters, freshly painted-

"Leviathan's Lament"

Travelers leaving the Main Gate are advised to be alert. Word has it that kidnappings on the roads, notably in the Webbed Woods area, has increased significantly. A local gypsy camp has reported many attempts at individuals kidnapping their children, some of which were successful. Hunters have reported that they too were kidnapped, but escaped with the aid of adventurers.

The tropical peace of early morning was startlingly shattered by a awesome cry echoing from high up in the Mountains of Mist. The booming shouts continued for some minutes. Some would say great anger filled those outbursts, others declare they were burdened with sorrow. A group of rangers told later at the Kingsman that they saw two or three avalanches of stone barrel down the Northern Cliffs, and plan to ply their crafts in other parts of the isle for a time.

Shortly after the appearance of a great mist upon the gates and a lone woman wandering within it is said she was turn to stone. As numerous appeared to gawk the statue itself began to spurt blood.

The mists swirled and vanished into her person and into a stone that appeared from the mists itself. The Dreamers appear to be guarded and distant. Yet some of them elated and ecstatic. Words are kept quiet and many of their books have been pulled from their shelves.

Few know what occurred within those mists...

Terror grips the Ziggurat.

In a speech of unity and alliance between the Sharboneth and Stygians in the pursuit of Tribals and Seekers who often cause trouble amongst the colony and whom he blamed for the recent conflicts between the organizations, Courtier Proverson was struck by a single bolt to the chest- Petrified.

In the chaos that ensued a second bolt struck shrouding the region in darkness as the mob of citizens that came to see him speak scattered. When the dust settled and the mob had dispersed his statue shattered.

Short time there after the alleged "Perch" from which the assassin struck was detonated. A pair of Stygians seen fleeing from it seconds before.

Courtier Proverson, while not the most popular of courtiers amongst the Adventurers had a stern grip on the favor of the Patricians for his various dealings. It is not known what fate will befall his merchant house or his vast fortune.

With the number of present courtiers down to Three, speculation spreads that the Stygians may very well regain their court seat. Patrols continue in search of the assasin but to little avail.

This evening a large fire raged southeast of the Webbed Wood. There, adventurers report they found an abandoned camp that was once inhabited by hunters. However, there were no reports on where the hunters went. Very few dead and little blood was found.

Some say this is somehow linked to the recent kidnappings in the Webbed Wood area.

Adventurers battling or spying upon the nightrisers can at times hear them speak odd things about the reawakening of the Syndri Larenius...

...Whatever this may mean to the average men or women. Little is known outside from this.

* * *

On a similar trend, people travelling into the ruins below have started to noticed, in the past week, red crystal being stockpilled in various corridors with increased activity from the militaristic Nightrisers...

(Belated Gossips)

A few nights ago, screams and the sounds of battle interrupted the otherwise peaceful slumber of the Colony. Nightrisers pouring through portals waged an unceasing assault upon the Ziggurat. Amongst their numbers was a tremendously intimidating Nightriser wearing a blood red armour and a ferocious scythe glittering with malice.

The battle raged until the creature vanished from thin air as its wounds were becoming too grave. The great warrior, Marcel Rolthor, engaged in mortal combat with it at this time could be seen about thrashing about afterward cursing the monster's cowardice.

Other notable figures were a pack of Garagosians who were seen laughing and crushing the undead splattering blood (their own) as well as bone fragments as they ruthlessly engaged in the slaughter of the bone warriors...

(Belated Gossip)

Starwood burns! A thick smoke coming out from the woods can be seen far from the colony of the afternoon before the Invasion. A group of fearsome Stygian Mercenaries came back to the Colony with a few natives in tow and their blood covering their respective cuirass.

Little is known of the battle, itself, aside from the bloodied state that the woods seem to be in.

Those visiting the starwoods can see the stargazers engaged in mourning of their warriors and organizing rituals to eat their own so that their spirit always be with the tribe...

Prophets, scholars and astronomers speak of an eclipse known as the "The Veil of Selune". An event where the moon will cover the light from the sun for an entire day. Selunites can be seen revelling in this glorious event filled with songs and events honoring the Moonmaiden, while the more pessismistic are fearful of the Nightriser Menace which looms over the Colony...

((This Sunday - July 5th))

The Sun finally rose back after a time of darkness that seemed endless to most. The attack by the undead had taken its toll. Hundreds of civilians had perished. The refugee dwellings had crumbled and crushed a great many as well as the lost of many great figures such as Courtier Shepard, Captain Galvin, Infantry Halloran, Man-at-Arm Berelle Cestera and the Great Marshall Sharboneth as well as many other less visible figures.

The heroic acts of a few who ventured forth into the lair of evil to slay the Nightriser Syndri Larenius will never be forgotten. But it was due to the noble sacrifice of the remaining members of the Iron Halo, Marcel Rolthor, Mustafa al-Rijat and Tenesti Veraski, who gave out their lives so that the evil that was brewing within them not would return.

As the people of the Ziggurat were still mourning their loss, a group of Stargazers aided with powerful beasts attacked the main gate slaying several Stygians and injuring a few deputies who had answered the alert. It is said that they also captured a member of the Armada and have given their demands to the military power of the Ziggurat in exchange for her safe returns...

Most natives of Old Port in the colony curse the cowardliness of the tribals and natives, while a few portal-rats, who dare not speak it in the open, believe that the Armada deserved retribution for their strike upon the otherwise peaceful natives.

The Ziggurat continues to bustle and flow as often the blossoming metropolis does. Its citizens are in high spirits after the vanquish of the Nightrisers but as things proceed there is an air of cautious optimism.

The Stygian campaign upon the Stargazers is slowly beginning to bring in revenue and resources. The Docks continue to bring in ample business, numerous individuals daily moving from the refugree camps and otherwise to its well protected walls.

As the Sharboneth Armsmen continue to mass-recruit it is said that their ranks begin to swell to unheralded numbers. Some attest however that the lack of a prominent criminal adversary has simply meant they are lasting longer than usual, not simply recruiting.

Amongst the community various forces continue to strive and seek to make a name for themselves, The Palid Mask leading numerous raids against Nightriser Territory within the ruins. The swift and almost overnight rise of the Mendon Estate cannot help but be noticed.

It is said that racial tensions begin to rise and stir however. Elves and Dwarves alike begin to cloister within their ranks and xenophobic trouble begins to rise. Dwarf-beard-hunting has become a regular practice in some regions and it is said that a few Armsmen have been paying for elven ears. While many discount this current conflict, it is said strange markings begin to appear upon the back alley walls of the Gobsquat and Docks. A human skull, with a lengthy blade skewered through the back and out of the mouth.

As the "Rainy" season approaches numerous citizens begin to make their way to the Umberlee shrine as well as the last remaining courtier, Korgath, appearing rather pleased with these developments.

All in all things upon the Ziggurat are said to be rather blessed of fortune. Expansionist sentiment runs high, Citizens seem content despite racial boundaries, and it is said that "Mist Business" has been completely run out of the Temple District in a series of raids within the sewers by adventurers.

In a rather dramatic speech, the Governor has named Ex-Master at Arms Rowan to the post of Marshal of the Armsmen Forces.

In a riveting speech she spoke at length of redoubling efforts inward rather than worrying of external forces, specifically stating an end to hostilities with the Stygians, pressing forth efforts against corruption, as well as Crime in general upon the Ziggurat.

A sergeant took her place as Master of Arms, and a Private was named Sergeant in his place.

Moments after this, the collective armed force was seen returning tot he Citadel. The Marshal and Master at Armssaw the Governor escorted to the tower and the Sergeant Ferdinand led a small army of deputies and Armsmen out of the area of the speech in a hurry...

A black day for shapechanging creatures.

The stargazer terrorist known as Neeshu has been slain, its head piked upon the gates as a reminder to the natives of what happens when the 'stone tower' is messed with.

'Squixxle the Grey' has also been killed.  According to all reports, the retainer Kharst simply marched in there, and marched out once, with its head upon a pike.  A standoff was observed at the gates later in the day.  A bugbear and a goblin were taken from the gates and trialled.

Later, this bugbear was executed.  Some have suggested that this is a precursor to war.  That gobsquat has been deliberately antagonised to give the people of the ziggurat an excuse to march into it and take the land back.  Others say that the goblins have gotten what they deserve for harbouring known criminals.

A proclamation has been made.  All dwarves that enter the gobsquat do so on penalty of death.  Some humans names are added to this list.

There are whispers of war in the air, but still gobsquat sits where it always has, and maintains its form of 'civilization'...

The Stygians have been extremely surly, and quick tempered, the last few days.

Word has it that two of their number disappeared last night on patrol, their bodies as yet unaccounted for.

Thusly, patrols into the wilderness have doubled to try and account for the source.  Well known enemies of the Stygians include the Stargazers, and their allies, and the Stygians seem quicker than usual to jump into combat.

Elsewhere, hushed rumors among the common folk have started spreading regarding a mysterious group calling themselves the "Benefactors".  If questioned, the commonfolk speak only in hushed terms about how they, or someone they knew, had been questioned about them by the armsmen and the Stygians.

Chaos erupts amongst the port, as a trio of elven slaves are rescued by an elven fanatic from a Manchakan Slave ship which resulted in the death of numerous guards as well as a Diplomat. It is said that a half dozen Armsmen as well as a Ruby were seen in the Martyr's Rest graveyard of the docks by many paying their respects, only to be turned away as an elf was being tortured.

Mum is the word on the events concerning the Manchakans but it is commonly agreed that the elves continue to grow bold, as clearly a sole man pursuing a ship full of slavers is simple suicide...

The docks have lately become a very dangerous place to be at night.

Children disappearing, banditry doubling, and raucous fights outside the Wanton Wastrel have been commonplace, as has the oldest profession become the newest fad in a place starting to reek of depredation.

The Stygians are becoming more indifferent to all this as the days pass by.  The docks, having trebled in size, are no longer an easy target for monsters or nightrisers, and real justice now comes with a price tag.

Shipping and boating business is booming, however, and the Stygians guard the sea trade with a jealous abandon.  No man or woman no matter how reckless dares assault a sailor or ship, as those men are protected most zealously by the blue uniformed men.  The same does not apply to the locals who find themselves faced with a barrage of reckless drunken matelots, all intent on enjoying their shore leave.

The night has been an eventful one. A ship struggles into harbor claiming to have been the last survivor of a convoy sunk on its way to Amn. Its captain tells tales of improbably large ships, and deadly crews, only to have to stagger off to rest in the Kingsman his face soot blackened from battle.

Within hours an Emissary arrives, stating that he serves a true heir of Sensuper, Ixpadia Sabuth, and that his mistress bids him demand the unconditional surrender of the colony and its forces. The Emissary claims that the Stygian Armada has met with defeat outside Old Port and that Trenada himself rests with Umberlee. The governor, demanding proof of both the defeat of Trenada, and the woman's claims to be an heir to Sensupur, refuses to surrender the colony and his brave retainers beat back the savage attack of ogres and goblins that served the emissary.

The Patriarch, the Sharboneth vessel, is seen returning in the early hours from an attempt to reach Old Port. The Emissary's claims that Old Port is blockaded at the least appear to be true. The Sharboneth Master at Arms is heard saying that he will ready the colony's defenses to hold out for as long as they should need.

Most of the men and woman from Old Port debate vigorously on the subject of true heirs, while the adventuring populace stumbles about clueless as to what any of it means, hoping that the matter can be cleared up so that they know which side to fight for.

Several hours ago, a cadre of Stygian Infantrymen and several Specialists were seen marching from the Docks to the Main Gates before leaving for the Webbed Woods with a large group of adventurers. It is said that soldiers under the banner of the self-proclaimed heir to the Senuspur Throne, Ixpadia Sabuth were spotted within the woods and thus did the Stygians march to challenge them in battle.

Yet they returned not with victory but defeat, for the battle swiftly turned sour and only one of the Stygians who marched there returned alive with the group of adventurers. There is also word that Ixpadia herself was seen on the battlefield and that she was a fearsome foe who easily turned the tide of the battle.

As news of this incident and the Stygian defeat begins to spread, the common people grow worried of the days to come.

One week has passed since Queen Ixpadia Sabuth and her Pirate Fleet began their naval blockade, and the Colony has been suffering heavily due to it, trade with Old Port has been completely halted and thus far there has been no contact at all with the Port. Commoners and Patricians alike are growing weary of the situation, a small minority of the people have begun to think that it may be best to recognize Ixpadia's claim and many have decided to huddle within the Colony walls, even the number of hunters heading out into the wilds has dropped considerably and the news is that the Queen's men are roaming the Island in large numbers, no doubt in search of the fabled Crown of the Isles.

And recently today, the Stygian Specialist known as Kethra Marsk was seen being dragged in shackles towards the Courthouse in the Temple District, word has it that she had committed a grave crime and was sent to be trialed, but somehow managed to escape during her trial. Several commoners and the like are now saying that she was probably rescued by her fellow Stygians, but no official details have been revealed yet.

It was a grim day for the Colony and its people. As night fell, several ships bearing the mark of Queen Ixpadia Sabuth sailed into the Docks and soon a large force of her soldiers landed upon the shoreline, thus beginning a standoff with the defenders of the Colony that lasted for quite some time. Yet the Ixpadian soldiers never did launch an attack and soon, the sounds of battle was heard from the Governor's Isle and numerous adventurers quickly moved there along with several armsmen to investigate.

Word has it that the adventurers and armsmen were defeated by a band of armored mercenaries at the Governor's Tower and that these mercenaries were later seen dragging Governor Zakarias Sharboneth in chains to the ships docked near the shores. By then it was already too late however, the remaining defenders have already been defeated and with none left to stop them, they sailed away with the Ixpadian troops.

At the end, this incident resulted in the deaths of numerous Stygian Infantrymen and Sharboneth Guards, but most were merely wounded gravely and subdued, Master-of-Arms Jeremiah Arkauin was among the dead though.

Nevertheless, the casualties suffered by the Colonist was not as high as many had expected, but there is now a strong feeling of uncertainty within the Colony and thus far there has been no news on the Governor's fate.

There is much gossip about why L'aisa Rowan, the incredibly skilled Marshal of the colony, was missing from the fighting. Grand Larson Burkden however was indeed seen near the end of the battle, but retreated with several Stygians as the battle turned sour.

And so it is. Ixpadia Sabuth, now Senuspur has entered the Colony triumphantly at the head of her host. Apparently having convinced the Governor in his captivity of her claim, he proclaimed her Queen before the Colony, and bid those still defending the Colony's walls lay down their arms. After a short conversation with Burkden, the Tertrach fled to the Stygian Fortress and has not been seen since. After a short speech atop the Ziggurat in which she spoke of her descent from whores in service of the House of Princes, the Queen retired to the Governor's Isle where she met with petitioners begging mercy or favours in the wake of her victory. She has not yet emerged.

A strange site over the colony today as hundreds of birds begin to flock to and circle the Ziggurat. Why they do this is uncertain, however one thing that is... the mess is getting a little out of hand.

The first of Ixpadia's ships to be rotated off blockade duty has arrived on Ymph. At first skeptical business owners shuttered their shops as the sailors and pirates passed through, but very quickly they were lured out with ready amounts of coin by men who'd not seen a service in months and were eager to spend. The taverns for the first time since their creation were packed, with plans for more in the works, and even the Touch of Class hosted a special night for the officers of Ixpadia's forces. If they be murderers, conquerors, saviors, usurpers, or gutter trash has not been agreed upon, but the colonial merchants are almost to a man eager to make a profit off these newcomers.

Farmers entire crops have been purchased to be taken out to the blockade and successful hunters of meat are making a good living and always have a ready buyer. The talk of the town is that within the first few days of the occupation the colony will have had more gold flow into it then in the past three months of steady trade with Old Port. How long the insatiable appetites of Ixpadia's forces will last is a point of much speculation in the parlors of businessmen.  

The Grand Tournament was held as planned several hours ago and the Queen herself along with Marshal Lestrade, Martel Sharboneth, the Governor and other prominent individuals were there in attendance, but the number of commoners was lower than usual and many remained in the Colony instead, no doubt it is due to their dislike for the recent changes. The Stygian Armada was nowhere to be seen either save for one of their Infantrymen, word is that the Stygians are displeased with the current situation even though they accepted a new contract and some are even saying that they will retaliate soon once given the order by Old Port, but for now this is merely hearsay.

Nevertheless, the events went smoothly enough and there were melee brawls, mage duels, and fist fights, the winner for the melee brawls was Kharst Delzoun, the mage duels was won by an arcanist named Finnegan the Magnificent and lastly, Roya Jans defeated all the combatants who participated in the fist fighting. Haley Mendon was also seen by all there swearing an oath of loyalty to the Queen.

A fearsome Wererat has been active about the Colony lately, especially in the Temple District and word is that several Ixpadian Soldiers and a commoner has been found murdered at it's hand so far, as this news spreads many are beginning to avoid the Temple District and other dark corners of the Colony, some even dare not to leave their homes during the night. Among the rebellious few though, the creature is soon gaining a strong reputation as a freedom fighter who opposes the Queen and her soldiers, this is still disregarded by the majority though who look at this Wererat as nothing more than a monster.

Several days have now passed since the Colony was surrendered to Ixpadia Sabuth. After the initial outbursts of hostility against the victorious conquerors, the Colony has come to accept that although Zakarias Sharboneth may still be the Governor of the Colony, things have changed. Colonists gather together and throw long stares after Ixpadian soldiers, restless and whispering harsh words without any actions backing those up. Some openly welcome the newcomers, especially merchants and other store owners who have seen their dealings increased tenfold.

Armsmen continue their duties as always yet both the disappearance of Marshal Rowan and the surrender of the Colony have left their marks upon them. None directly oppose their newest Marshal, one of Queen Ixpadia's men called Marius Lestrade, who has begun to show his presence among the Armsmen. Still, there is a quiet part of them that whispers the promise that Rowan is out there, gathering allies to overthrow these invaders. As the days go by, these become fewer in numbers.

The Docks are bustling in activity. Ships come and go, bringing messages of importance to the remaining Ixpadian soldiers. Rumours of a breach in the defenses of Old Port spreads but thus far none has confirmed it. The Infantrymen of the Armada have been seen to increase their training within their School of War.

Those visiting the Stargazers find that the Elders are speaking often with one another, gazing up to the starlight night for guidance.

The second of Ixpadia's ships to be rotated off blocking duty arrive on Ymph. They are a somber gathering eager to spend their fortunes on what the Colony has to offer, some of them carrying scars marking recent combat. In drunken stupor they share tales of a halt in the progress of the war, Old Port's defenses keeping them upon the sea. Even with their Queen leading their efforts they have yet to set foot upon the soils of Old Port. Many speak in concern of how their general is becoming increasingly more restless with the current situation and dwindling supplies may be the cause of rash actions soon. Although both sides have fought each other repeatedly through the course of the blockade, neither side has gained any hold.

Adventurers heading out into the woods during the night speak of increased sightings of werewolves, hunting together in packs and howling toward the moon. The cause for this increase of activity is unknown and a growing number of adventurers are reported missing.

More locally, rumours has it that a dwarf and a man recently partook in a game of Royal Dragon in which they later accused the host, Shelkin Raus, of cheating. The specifics regarding this grow wilder as the tale is shared but what is certain is that Raus' nose doesn't look quite the same.

Rumours pass of strange cultists being seen around the island. Little is known about them.

Upon the 30th of Mirtul, the second rotation was called to join the blockade earlier than suspected. Several ships set sail to join the front where it was suspected general Thurkask planned a decisive strike upon Old Port. Hours passed and smoke could be seen coming from the north. As the third rotation of Ixpadian ships arrived on the evening, rumours immediately started to spread out. Thurkask had through losses managed to achieve a costly victory but another matter was upon everyone's lips. Unheard of thus far in the war, someone had managed to get through the blockade and they had done it twice. Within the inner pier, the docking area of the Leviathan's Lament stands shipless.

People chatter. In bars, in the streets, whispers abound. Some say he killed twenty werewolves on his own, others speak of thirty and forty. Perhaps even a hundred. Only two things seem certain in the various rumors flying around town: One, adventurers rallied a rescue to seek a man thought lost to the beasts... only to find him alive and well, surrounded by many corpses. And two, his name is Bargo.

As the morning sun rose the third of Kythorn, rumors spread quickly of a party of five coming back from the Tangled Woods bloody and torn. Despite their appearance it is said that they achieved a victory for the Colony by slaying the leader of the more recent werewolf attacks.

Hunters coming back from the woods report seeing massive boars with terribly sharp tusks. Those few caught unaware by these highly aggressive boars and managed to escape have nicknamed them Razor Boars and caution against approaching them.

Many hours ago, Governor Zakarias Sharboneth was seen leaving the  Governor's Tower and traveling towards the Sharboneth Citadel with several guards for a confidential meeting, on his way back to his residence however it is said that a vicious female Wererat attacked him and brutally wounded him during her rampage that took the lives of the three Stygian Soldiers watching over the walkway leading into the Temple District. Immediately after the Governor was wounded, the wretched creature was seen fleeing from the scene and shortly after, Marshal Lestrade arrived and ordered for the Governor to be brought back to his tower.

Gossip soon spread about the Colony like wildfire about the Governor's severe injuries and the Werecreature who had wounded him, yet the Marshal did order for the sewers below the Temple District to be searched and hours later, the adventurers returned with news of her death at their hands. Nonetheless, the Governor remains gravely wounded and it is said that he will remain in his residence for some time until he recovers, but the physicians and healers who treats him say that he shall surely survive.

With the death of the wererat, people had expected some return to normalcy. However the rate kidnappings and disappearances in and around the colony seems only slightly reduced.

Many weeks have passed since the day that the Colony upon the Isle of Ymph was conquered by the Ixpadian force and yet since the Grand Tournament that was held merely several days after the takeover the new ruler, Queen Ixpadia Sabuth has not been seen here at all and she has instead been concentrating entirely on the war against Old Port. Under the stern rule of her loyal Captain, Marshal Marius Lestrade however... the situation has been quite stable if not quiet, with there being no sign of open rebellion at all yet even though hostility with the Stygian Armada is growing. Nonetheless, in the past several days a few Ixpadian vessels have been seen returning from the naval blockade, and it is gossiped in the taverns and streets that the men who returned brought back news of there being a somewhat major naval battle recently and this resulted in high casualties between both sides, including the lost of three large Ixpadian ships.

As word of this news spreads further, many of the common people are beginning to say that the Queen's war against the Port is likely going worse than what her men would have them know.... On more local matters though, it is said among the commoners that Governor Zakarias Sharboneth has been recovering well under the care of Physician Isaac Solomon since he was attacked by a wretched Werecreature days ago.

The Colony stands shaken after recent events. It begun in the docks where a group of House Sharboneth Armsmen arrested a criminal there. The action drew the attention of a group of Bloodhound thugs who sought to bully the Armsmen into leaving. As other colonists gathered to watch an arrow was fired at one of the thugs and chaos erupted. With angry shouts of outrage following them, the Armsmen and others who made their stand with them left the district in a hurry, the bodies of slain Bloodhounds in their wake.

As the House sent reinforcements to control the wall overseeing the district, a spokesman of the Bloodhounds approached them and demanded that all who partook in the slaughter of his bloods-brothers were to be handed over to them, else they would seek their revenge upon the House. In addition, they would help the Arrmsmen with bringing in the two Duergar that in recent times had caused trouble. It is said that Sergeant Cain Simmons stepped down from the wall and surrendered himself over to the Bloodhounds, to the protests of his fellow peers. Confronted with losing one of their sergeants, the Armsmen made pleas to get him back and sort the conflict out in other means. Ten thousand gold pieces were given the Bloodhounds to settle the conflict and in a surprising turn of events, the leader of the Duergar surrendered himself to stand trial.

Decleared guilty and judged to execution, the Duergar was brought to the top of the Ziggurat as rain fell from the sky. At the very last moment, a cleric of Talos intervened in the execution and managed to free the prisoner. They escaped into the Sewers where they beat down the last of the pursuer and went by raft to Shipwreck Beach, dragging Master of Arms Rodrigo Ferdinand after them. Rumours spread that upon Traitor's Cliff, the Talossians and the Duergar were brought down amidst a heavy storm. The bodies of Rodrigo Ferdinand and Cain Simmons were spotted at the bottom of the cliff, having escaped their captors' clutches.

Once more the Duergar was brought up to the very top of the Ziggurat and a final attempt was made to rescue him from justice. Justice preserved and in the presence of Armsman Cedric Ithor, the Duergar was executed.

The Armsmen of the House mourn the passing of their beloved Master of Arms, a hero and survivor of the Veil of Selune, as well as their Sergeant. The past weeks have diminished their numbers and hold upon their Colony, yet they meet the dawn with the declaration that through it all, those who stood against them all met their deserved fate.

The Docks (http://www.escapefromunderdark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=139137&postcount=127) continue to be a haven of trouble amongst the colony. With the recent Massacre of the Bloodhounds as well as numerous criminals flocking to the ale and blood stained halls of the wastrel, many citizens avoid the region all together. Those who dwell within are often seen eyes cast down, rushing from place to place to avoid conflict at all costs. Businesses struggle given the various gangs. Some slowly turn apathetic and immoral, outraged that the "Rulers" of the colony have abandoned them.  Patrols by the Sharboneth have noticeably lessened. Some say it is due to the increase in conflict and that they hope to avoid further hostage situations, others that they are yet again, abandoning them to the fate of thugs, criminals, and worse that dwell amongst the Docks. Others still hold firm loyalty to the Queen and that soon victory shall arrive in the war against Old Port.

The Bloodhounds with their new found funding have double recruitment efforts and are often seen sporting gaudy golden chains, holding lavish parties at the Wastrel, and generally infighting amongst themselves for "The Mother Load" offered to them by the Sharboneth.

The Stygians hold firm their position of "Defenders" as no external forces have invaded or taken the Docks, though the rampant toll of decadence in their ranks continues to play a factor and internal conflict and crime flourishes through the region. Rumors slowly circulate that there is talk of efforts to terminate their contract...

Chaos spreads through out the Colony.

Though the reasons are numerous, some plausible and some spread by inane rumors, The Stygians and Bloodhounds found themselves facing off in the civic circle of the Docks, before the Gallows.

In a brutal and merciless action of massacre, the Bloodhounds and even a few citizens caught in the crossfire, were felled by swift action and hand. In the aftermath, it is said Marsk, whom already declared "war" upon the Stygians in the name of the queen, slew one of them in a duel to the death.

Fighting once more broke out. Barricades are being placed, men and women begin rationing, it is said some even begin departing to face the wilds rather than yet another armed conflict. The air is thick with the death of the Bloodhound Massacre in the docks, the corpses ordered to remain for the "Gulls to clean".

Tensions mount, the Docks continue to deteriorate into chaos, and it seems all but inevitable that Tempus' warhorse sit just under the horizon...

QuotePeace is slowly becoming a word that few know the meaning of...

After half-crazed allegations that the Ixpadian agent Marsk was arrested for assault despite being one of the Queen's Men, the Docks once more fell into disarray.

Reports are mixed, and who started what is shrouded in mystery, but the results are all the same:

Death, Exile, Murder...

Some even say "War".

A small cadre of Ixpadian soldiers and the Stygians posted in before the gallows squared off in the region now being refered to as "The Warzone" given the dozens that have been slain in the last fortnight. Burkden and Kedrian and a small legion of his men against the Marshal and Marsk and a handful of his men.

Shrieks of pain and roars of battle erupted, some saying even Saughuin partook in the ensuing melee as Citizens fled in every direction.

Amongst the tavernfolk there is word that while some corpses were seeing being drug to the Sea, Graveyard, Sewer, and anywhere else that a body could be left, an unusually high amount of men for a "War" were seen limping from the fray.

Pessimistic say the inevitable bloodshed is around the corner, while some say the fact that any walked out alive is a sign that this was a simple scuffle blown out of proportion.

The only certain fact is this: The Docks are deteriorating.

Merchants all together have begun avoiding the region. Citizens continue to flood into the Ziggurat angering numerous Patricians as the "Rabble" flood to the Refugee camp within the ziggurat.

The Armsmen of Sharboneth grow concerned with the increase in "Dockfolk" venturing to the colony, suspecting crime shall spike, though the new Master of Arms seems eager to enforce and restore Order.

The Stygians Shark has tasted blood, and the Queen's Forces have shown their hand. Those who stand out against Sabuh's rule shall be slain...

QuoteThe Stygians find themselves in a strenuous position at best.

In the aftermath of the conflict it is said that many of the Dock have begun pushing their way against Stygian Occupation. The Bloodhounds slowly begin to recover from their losses, the Wastrel has become a hotbed of political discussion and brawls occur near-nightly.

There are those who say the Queen's rule actually would bring freedom to the Dock, something non-existent since the Wards were in place to remove the risers and colonists began to settle.

The Stygians are quickly becoming compared to the 900 brothers, ruthlessly slaughtering all who would stand out against their coinflow. Reports of abuses, murders, and believe it or not, far worse as the Saughuin have taken to eating of colonists, slowly foster hefty anti-Stygian sentiment through out the region.

Should the path continue, and a most "Uncivil" war make its way to this colony, it is difficult to say which power the Docks would find themselves supporting...

As conflict begins to swirl and swell, lines are slowly being drawn in the sand.

In an unusual turn of events, word spreads swiftly of Lord Martyn Greywood, offering his fealty to Queen Sabuh. It is say the common man is his chief concern, and that songs of praise and cheer were shared through out poritons of the dock.

Offering to pay for food and drink for the hungry and poor, as well as hear the voice of the people, a surge of Ixpadian supporters descended upon the Wastrel.

The ale flowed, the hungry found bread, and for a rare moment, Peace was had.

Until a pair of Stygian Infantryman stumbled into the festivities, swiftly causing the conflict that has plagued the Docks returned in a heartbeat. Weapons were drawn, a standoff was had after a drunken commoner took a Stygian to his knees with a blow to the head.

Rumors swell and sway, some saying that Ixpadia has already gifted him noble title. Others that the man is being swept up in popular support.

Regardless, the Stygians continue to find the odds stacked against them, and the Marshal has allegedly begun taking a clear interest in this "Merciful Lord of the Black Keep"...

// Rumors are flowing out a lot more recent as IC events pick up. Don't forget to check the last page of rumors for anything you miss, as well as keep an eye out for regular plot updates, plot murmurings, and information about the going ons of the colony. There is likely to be many in a day, as the server is becoming more active[/b]//

Rumblings flow through out the Ziggurat of dissent amongst the Patricians. Be it simply harm to business, or jealousy that such interest has been placed upon the filthy refuse of the docks, many eyes in the Kingsman turn unfavorable when the Ixpadians enter. Many merchants have begun charging slightly more to their "Benefactors". Many feel that their status as Patrician has been rendered moot as so many are able to simply do as they wish.

The once proud, arrogant, and perhaps even egotistical wealthy of the colony grow restless, jealous, and enraged that their social events are overtaken by drunken peasants.

Unable to return to Old Port and enjoy the finer things their status should offer, and such focus upon the the Patricians find themselves without a face to turn to, an allegiance to pledge, a champion to voice their concerns...

With the speech of Lord Greywood completed, the masses were rather enthralled by his short but impartial statement: "If the Stygians do not end their thuggish ways, and serve as true guardians of the colony, I and my house shall throw our weight behind the queen."".

Shortly after the speech along with many raw fishes thrown at the Stygians and those who spoke up to support them, the Lord and his sizable entourage were witnessed by many making way to the Governor's Tower to meed with the Marshal. No word yet has surfaced but speculation on what exactly the two men discussed, many can only assume it is the drafting of action against the Stygian power...

After a somewhat powerful speech delivered by a Stygian Specialist atop the Ziggurat, the resplendent and highly disciplined Stygian troops march back to the Docks, but not before one of Ixpadia`s prime agents attempted unsuccessfully to provoke them with crude jests.

The Scion Graveheart himself, a man esteemed by many of the nobility, as well as well as numerous patricians were on hand, while the spectacle was witnessed. Speculation continues to swirl as where exactly the Patricians who have quite literally paid for the Stygian's protecions, shall lay their loyalty...

With the strict blockade of Old Port by Her Majesty Queen Ixpadia's forces, it came as a welcome surprise to gossips in the Colony that a slave auction was held at West Point today. It is told that a daring smuggler by the name of Horter Roose ran the blockade successfully and landed at West Point with a cargo of slaves he had rescued from the rigors of the Underdark. Apparently, these slaves were sold by Roose to colonial citizens today on the condition their buyers gave their word that the slaves would be treated well. Toward the end of the auction its said a squadron of Ixpadian frigates rounded the headland, attempting to catch Roose on the shoals. Roose and his sleek cutter managed to get away after a series of confounding maneuvers, sailing out to the safety of deeper water with the smuggler's mad laughter high on the wind.

Later that night, the Docks were rife drunken revelry. Apparently Roose had made his escape, only to reappear at the Wastrel to shout the whole district to free rounds with the proceeds he made, securing for himself an overnight cult-like following amongst the denizens of the Docks.

The execution of the woman known as Claudia Harloch was announced several hours ago on this fair but uneventful afternoon and a small group of commoners and adventurers alike did travel to the center of the Docks to watch her execution. A cadre of Stygian Soldiers was seen there and Grand Larson Burkden made a short speech mentioning that she had stolen from the Stygian Armada and that such is the fate of those who act against the Armada, she was hanged moments later before all who were present and was immediately strangled to death.

Strange drumming and a mass of smoke can be heard and seen coming from the Starwood Village. The rope leading to the village has been pulled up and all access to the village is cut off for a period of days.

Reports are unclear and rumors have little meat to go on, but most seem certain the stargazers are preparing for some sort of war.

The calm before the storm, many Dockworkers and Patricians alike begin to mutter amongst their circle of friends, drinking partners, and what have you.

Within the Kingsman numerous patricians and their brandy-sipping sessions bring forth talks of swift and quick victory over the rabble of the Docks. Terms are kept vague and support kept concealed to avoid duels of honor, challenges to merit, and other noble acts that Patricians often partake in. Also the issue of Treason mounts, as rumors spread some have already been executed by the Ixpadian's for speaking out against the Queen.

The Wastrel continues to be a nightly hotbed of political debate, conflicts, stabbings, bar-brawls, and controversy. The wooden floors are becoming so stained with blood they are taking on a red tint, and in some spots there has been a complete lack of attempt of cleaning up. Be it the Stygians or Queen, Dockman or Fisher, Merchant or Beggar, no man is innocent from the conflict. Some say Brawls have started over a simple sneeze and a cordial offer of "May Ilmater and the Queen ease your suffering", many Stygians taking offense at the gesture. Others say the Duergar Barman himself instigates these fights in hopes of continuing to bring in business.

Gobsquat, in their efforts to mimic legitimate society, have begun to have a revolution problems within their own ranks. Frantic screams of goblins being tortured for attempts to usurp the king, and worse sounding noises emit from the massive gates, further driving away any sane man from venturing within.

Amidst the swirling chaos and mayhem it is said that the oppressive fist of the Black Hand has made its venture to the Colony as many begin offering prayer for peace and for a true ruler to step forward and end the chaos caused by the disgruntled factions.

Others decry them as shameless opportunists, but turn to religions of their own, the Chauntean Temple and Hallway of Hope booming in visitation. The Wavemaster within the Inner Pier has begun forecasting outcomes of the war, heralding Umberlee's presence as the deciding factor between the Ixpadian Blockade and the Forces of Old Port. The Temple District as a whole, begins to bustle with people seeking refuge.

The Workshop Guild slowly begins to hire and train more apprentices as a fortune of coin trickles in as every man and woman attempts to arm themselves.  Farmers begin to over-harvest their crops, tradesmen of all sorts drawing in their tools and skills, trying their hardest to produce as much as humanly possible for the rising demands as every individual attempts to prepare themselves and their families for the impending conflict....

News spreads like wildfire that a Ixpadian Solider was mugged and stripped of his uniform in broad daylight by two men of little description in the Docks. Stygians are seen in the street quietly laughing and taunting other Ixpadians about the incident, some of the taunting leading to a few drunken barfights in the Wastrel whilst Norrin takes bets from his patrons on who will fall first.

The Armsman of Sharboneth seem slower than usual to investigate the mugging, most people shrugging it off as "Typical Hawk laziness" whilst the more wild and conspiratory circles in the colony claim to have seen certain Armsman giving Ixpadians the cold shoulder treatment.

Whatever happens, one thing is for certain amongst the Colonists. Dark clouds are gathering above Ymph.

Tensions between those loyal to the Count and those loyal the Queen continue to flare, yet this day the rumour mill is mostly unconcerned with such things. Instead, people wag tongues about a very sudden alliance between the Magus Morv and Zyphaem Fassaud, with both regularly seen entering the ruins near to the Smash together with assistants in toe. Just what they are doing there precisely remains subject to speculation, yet the avid delving and studies into that section of the ruins under daily joint expeditions speaks to something of importance...

A huge flock of harpies passed across the sun heading out towards Shipwreck beach. Sailors whisper that they've been fighting and singing amongst themselves for hours now. What has caused the commotion nobody knows, but the Ixpadian soldiers in the colony have grown tense, and the sailors in on their leave have sobered slightly from their drunken revels as if this dark cloud was a very ill omen.

Word spreads around town of a peculiar night, sparked by the joint research venture of Thrask Morv and Zyphaem Faussad. Those who were not present know little of the events, other than that six people set out, only to reappear some hours later at the top of the Ziggurat, with a young child in tow.

Rumors abound that the child was found deep within the ruins of the colony. Even wilder rumors state that the boy is a prophet, and the six adventurers bore witness to him prophesying about days to come in the colony. All agree, however, that the boy has come under the private supervision of Morv and Faussad.

Rumors swirl that Lord Greywood was brought back upon a burial liter from a raid in Old Port on behalf of the queen. They say in the streets that he personally killed the Uncle of Count Senuspur, Malcolm Senuspar, in a duel, before being slain by a Ruby from the shadows. Many morn his death and many more question what will befall his thriving House.

Other whispers speak of the Count openly using Drow mercenaries to supplement his forces, Stygian bravery under Trenada in battling the Queen, and the man known simply as Drexia having assumed control of the loyalists within Old Port- brutally turning back every push Her Majesty makes against the entrenched forces of The Count around the Palace of Princes.

Today was a day the likes of which the Colony is unlikely to ever forget. Tremors shook the Ziggurat, forcing all to seek cover and striking terror into the hearts of many. The epicenter, all agreed, was the ruinous expanse of the Colony known by many as "The Smash".

Many flocked to the area to find what the disturbance was. Upon their arrival they found the Scholar Zyphaem and the Thayan Thrask Morv weaving intense spells at the waterside. Between them was a small boy, whom many have come to think of as somewhat supernatural. Rumor names him as "Razul", the boy found by an adventuring party days before, deep in the ruins. Whoever he may be, none can deny that he appeared to be leading the ritual, casting with the two powerful wizards and at one point even issuing them orders.

The result of the awe-inspiring casting was clearly visable as chunks of the earth rose all around them and from the waters of the Smash rose an impossibly large chunk of earth. It rose far into the sky, until it's lowermost point rested some five hundred feet of the ground. Upon the completion of the ritual, Morv and Faussad are said to have collapsed, while the boy spoke to the assembled.

None are sure what such a bizarre and portentious turn of events can mean, but none can keep their eyes from the large floating island which now resides some five hundred feet above the Temple Distriict..

A trying day has hit the Colony. It began as the Stygians slowly pulled out of the Docks, when a confrontation began and small scale rioting between Stygians and Ixpadian soldiers broke out.

Reports on what House Sharboneth's reaction was vary, though most admit they saw a Sergeant, Armsman and Retainer doing very little. Rumors also indicate that those same three were later exiled from the Colony due to their failure to help the Ixpadians, as an act of House Sharboneth to assure their loyalties.

For now, the Stygians have relocated to their Squatter's Den Outpost, where all eyes await what will come from them next. Their first act, however, seemed to be the execution of infamous Ixpadian Soldier, Kethra Marsk. Ixpadians mourn her loss universally, all afraid of what will come without this hero of theirs.

The colony seems ill at ease..

Battle sweeps the streets once more. A concentrated effort seems to have been made, when a sudden attack by Stygians and Loyalists came during the night. House Sharboneth, declaring their loyalty for the count, turned on the Ixpadians where they stood. Inch by inch, and with a heavy death toll, the Ixpadians were forced from the Ziggurat by citizens and loyalists alike. Many speak of the fledgling Banite church having been present, and extremely vocal. Many also noted infamous loyalist "Gallo" blowing the war horn, to signal the attack.

Another group seems to have been responsible for the daring rescue of Governor Zakarias from deep within the Ixpadian territory.

As the dust settles, a vicious stalemate has arisen. The Ixpadians have fortified themselves into the docks, and seem prepared to make a stand against the Loyalists. Neither side is yet willing to cross the barriers seperating them, fearing their forces not sufficient. How long this will go on, none can be sure..

A bizarre occurance is on the tongues of all the common folk. At sunrise, a strange shape filled the air. As it drew closer, all were perplexed to see that it was in fact a ship. Sporting three masts, and even sails, it flew through the air. It soon became evident what their destination was, and it drew to a stop just over the floating enclave. As figures descended onto the large floating island, others came below to the area referred to as the "Smash". Reports of their welcome vary, but it is known that their leader, an elderly, overweight man named "Bartemius" turned a man to stone after the man reportedly made lewd comments at his daughter.

Many fear the new arrival of what is, reportedly, a group of powerful mages. Others however, doubt it will be anything more than a scholarly expedition, quick to point out that amicable Zyphaem Faussad began his stay on Ymph in exactly the same capacity.

The group for now seems to have set up a small camp in the Smash, as others in their number stay above on the Enclave, studying tirelessly.

The reign of Ixpadia Sabuth has come to a close.

As night fell, ships were spotted heading into Old Port. Shortly thereafter, battle was heard ringing from the shores of the Old City. As their battle waged on, the Colonies was only beginning..

Ixpadian reinforcements landed in the Colony, and waves of soldiers pressed against the Loyalist barricades in the Ziggurat. Eventually, former Marshal Marius Lestrade led a force that was able to break the barricade and wreak havoc upon the Loyalist forces. Meeting Grand Larson Burkden in a deadly duel at the top of the Ziggurat, the two man battles for nearly half an hour, before Burkden finally succumbed to the blade of Lestrade, who collapsed of his own wounds shortly after, atop the Grand Larson, dead.

Just after their death, an explosion rang out from the docks, as a group of Sharboneth's men sabotaged Ixpadian vessels. The Loyalists used this opportunity to push against the Ixpadians and bring the fight into the Docks. Ixpadia's best Lieutenant, Admiral Horton Grouse landed in the Colony with news that Ixpadia had been captured by the Count's men and was being held in Old Port. The Ixpadian's quickly left the Colony in the hands of the Loyalists, to retrieve her...

The Loyalists gave no quarter, however, and followed the Ixpadians to the shores of Old Port, where the Ixpadian Forces were quickly rended asunder by the Colonists, Rubies and Stygians. One Ruby in particular is said to have led them with a vicious and singleminded bloodthirst. General Drexia, who many of the Colonists whisper is the son of a Matron of Traensyr.

The Loyalists proved successful, as eventually Grouse and the remaining Ixpadians, along with the rebellious lords of Old Port who lent her their aid fled away from the Archipelago. The Colony rejoices in a freedom it has not enjoyed in months. Some, however, wonder what became of Grouse, and fear what shall happen if he returns..

As the dust settles in the docks and remenants of Ixpadia's reign begin to disappear, men and women can be seen banding together to form close knit communitys for safety. Those that would stand idle being forced to choose their friends more closely as the docks become a more sinister place.

The bloody (and glamorous to the bankruptly corrupt) art of gang warfare has taken hold within the docks with a iron fist. With House Sharboneth and The Stygian Armada unable to spare the men to police it, a massive power vacuum has appeared within the district as gangs rise and fall within days of their inception and the amount of dumped bodies found in the reef's are becoming more numerous at a alarming rate.

A group of particular note called "The Longshoremen" has appealed to the mass's, asking them to take up arms against House Sharboneth and their slaves to coin as they openly begin to proclaim the docks "freeman" territory. Johnny Lazare is also often seen holding "discussions" with the various unsavory individuals now found in the docks, many in the Wastrel speculate at why a good, honest working man would speak with such undesirables but the general consensus is that it cannot mean any good for the degrading district.

Those astride the cliffs overlooking the sea between the Old Port and Ymph on this day espied a large flotilla of ships of questionable seaworthiness careening ever nearer on the swells. Eventually, they disappeared into the caves of the Inner Piers below the Docks.

Throngs of haggard people, their faces drawn in exhaustion and their eyes hollowed by desperation ascended thence into the Docks, shuffling about uneasily. The observant may have noted that a number of these people must have once been affluent, their expensive clothes now stained with the offal of violence in Old Port and the rigors of travel from it, yet nevertheless bearing themselves with a semblance of regal pride.

Talk quickly spreads that this mass of people are those Old Port residents, nobles and the the lowerborn alike, who supported Ixpadia during the war and who have now come to Ymph seeking refuge from the retribution of the Count's Rubies.

As the dark clouds of another Flamerule storm gathered over these new arrivals in the the Docks, they quickly began picking out shelter in the corners of what these days could now genuinely be called slums...swelling the population immensely, and speaking to even more tumultuous times ahead for the seething district.

Today, was to be the day that Lord Alemander landed and reassured his people that they were entering a new age. Well, that end was certainly achieved...

Preceding Alemander was a retinue of Lords from Old Port, all of whom appear to have been cast from their homes in the Old City to an exile on Ymph for uprising with the False Queen. They arrived shortly before Alemander, who took his place at the top of the Ziggurat to address his people.

As his speech wound on, however, the infamous General Drexia arrived declaring Alemander a Traitor. Reading a proclamation from the Count naming Alemander guilty of High Treason and dissolving the House of Sharboneth, Drexia went on to defame the Lord further, telling the people that even after the House of Sharboneth went back to the Count, Alemander plotted to kill the Count, and sold weapons to the Ixpadians, weapons which were used to kill Colonists.

Zakarias, Governor of the Colony, spit at Drexia's feet and denounced him for a liar. A duel ensued, wherein Zakarias was quickly slaughtered. Alemander and Martel went quietly after that, as Sharboneth men denied them as their masters.

Drexia announced that the Colony had been given over to now Duke Antoine Trenada, who shall be arriving in just over a tenday. Until then, the Colony lies subdued in Ruby Rule, with General Drexia at it's head.

The new lords scavange through ruins, setting up their new estates..

In the aftermath of the dissolution of House Sharboneth, Colonists have begun to voice their fear of the defenses and the present situation. The Armada is battered after the Queen's War and the few forces they have stoically defend the Main Gates and other areas, spread thinly. The four Rubies quell any thoughts of open rebellion or dismay, yet their presence do not give the Colonists comfort. Fear hangs in the air that one single major attack will leave countless dead in its wake. They now look for someone to champion them and guide them forth before the arrival of Duke Trenada and his men.

As Shieldmeet was at an end, a large force of gnolls approached the Colony and aggressively struck it after failed negotiations. Their demand was rumoured to be the hand-over of someone responsible for the death of one of their tribes, who were consumed by rot. Adventurers and defenders alike rose to defend the Colony and were victorious, but at a cost. Volunteers usually at guard duty upon the walls and three Stygians perished in the attack, further dwindling the number of defenders able to hold off the native forces of Ymph. As the day passed into dusk, only Drake was seen standing upon the wall waiting for more Infantrymen to arrive.

A jet of purple light was seen shooting from the Floating Enclave tonight, into the sky. The cause of it remains widely unknown, though what is certain is that the inside of the Floating Island has been opened.

Many wonder on what will come next of the boy prophet Razul, now that most of his prophecies have come true...

The City stagnates, waiting for the Duke. Many begin to angrily whisper that he may never arrive, while others say that the Count intends to simply turn the Rubies loose upon them when the time is right, to slaughter them all.

Tensions are high. In the Docks, gang warfare continues to flourish. A dozen gangs rise and fall, and more come to take their place. Still, many speak of the Sons, who seem content to bide their time, recruiting from the fallen pieces of other gangs, or beating them into submission. Still, none have seen them abuse their power, and most speak of them reverentially as a last remaining force of good.

In the skies, the Floating Enclave has opened itself to the people, but the Coterie has monopolized it's study almost entirely. They cannot agree amongst themselves, however, and it is not uncommon to see them fighting amongst themselves over rights to specific studies.

With the announcement that they've finally found something of worth, many in the Colony are curious to see what it is, and at least take their mind off of the leaderless Ziggurat, or infighting Docks.

Rumors abound of the events at the Coterie's announcement. It is said that they discovered a way to repel Nightrisers from the Colony, and forever end the frequent attacks by them. However, shortly after this was unveiled, Zyphaem Faussad arrived, followed by Thrask Morv, and the boy prophet Razul. Behind them came a shrouded figure, who said nothing, and no one seemed to acknowledge.

Razul announced that the Coterie would no longer control of the Enclave, and that a new group would be formed, which would allow the Coterie to join with it. A Transcendent Conclave, to turn the Enclave into a bastion of peace and learning. He then encouraged mages to flock to them, and see the vision realized.

Many are curious to see what becomes of such a group, while some seem wary that even more mages are flocking towards the area.

All however, are hopeful for the new development that could possible end the Nightriser threat.

The ropes that hung from the Floating Enclave allowing entrance have been pulled up, seperating it from the island. Though Zyphaem and Morv remain below for now, it is said the boy Razul is above.

Some say he hides in fear of the Count's proclamation, while others say he is overseeing the transformation of the Enclave into the grand paradise he always proclaimed it to be.

There is no sign of when they will once again lower the ropes to allow passage above.

As the more scholarly and learnt portion of the population look to the enclave, the average man and fearful citizen cast their gaze to the docks district where a particularly brutal battle took place.

It is said that a Tempuran hailing from the ziggurat was at odds with the infamous Bloodhounds and led a small portion of citizens who wanted to put an end to the gang once and for all. As steel was drawn within the alley's of the docks, beggars, drug addicts and individuals fearing for their lives left the scene quickly.

It was then that The Sons attacked the invading group from behind and quickly put down any resistance with the assistance of the bloodhounds, declaring that no "followers of Tyrants" shall lay a hand on those that make the docks their home.

As the blood drained away and the invaders fled to lick their wounds, Remy Crallet of The Sons called for a gathering within the square at the docks for an announcement. He quickly denounced the recent attack and called for all inhabitances of the docks to unite against all symbols of tyranny and to fight for the freedom they deserve. He also mentioned that The Bloodhounds, in return for their assistance in the attack, now rally under The Sons banner.

The Longshoremen were quick to critisize the move, saying the bloodhounds only wished to seek protection whilst they cause more pain and wanton destruction. The Craftsmen seemed indifferent but their leader Droggus Munt was overheard mentioning that it maybe worth throwing their lot in with The Sons if the coin is plentiful.  

The Docks have become very dangerous. The entire district seethes, imploding upon itself regularly as the various factions clash in violent attempts to gather power and mark territory, or merely defend themselves from aggressors. As the struggle develops, several groups emerge with the influence and strength required to defend their claims; the Longshoremen, the Fishmongers, the Freemen, the Merchants and the Craftsmen. All these groups however are overshadowed by the 'Sons', a gang that seems content for now to remain largely unobtrusive.

Law in the district has broken down completely. Thievery is rife, brawls are commonplace and murder is a near-daily happenstance. Yet for all the chaos and bloodshed, a strange sense of 'unity' has developed amongst the folk of the Docks, who irregardless of their current loyalties are always quick to join in the chorus against the 'Tyranny' and 'Oppression' of the Count...sentiments the otherwise quiet group known as the Sons take particular concern with spreading.

Moreover, angry demands swirl on desperate streets: "Where is the catch?" For it seems that within the last few days, the fishing fleets have been bringing in much less than normal despite the season being high. Johnny Lazare of the Fishmongers claims his lads are trying their best, yet for many living in slums facing famine its not good enough.

Tensions rise...

Terror grips The Docks once again as more violence erupts. This time the casualty being none other than Lady Haley Mendon of The Mendon Estate.

Rumours are varied depending who you speak to, but it is generally agreed that discontent inhabitants of The Docks wished to oust "Tyrants" from their homes once and for all. Three men were seen entering the Estate and fleeing from it moments later with a large bag of looted goods whilst The Estate burnt to the ground.

With no sign of Haley Mendon, The Ziggurat mourns the loss of another well thought of political figure and cries for revenge and for something to be done about "these damned rebels" become rampant about The Colony.

Word spreads around the Docks of the arrival of Bimpwocket Bozworth. Purportedly a renown gnomish researcher specializing in rare and exotic marine creatures, he has taken up residence and apparently even begun recruiting bravos and street toughs, presumably for protection amidst the chaos that grips the district. A cacophony of strange 'industrial' noises, such as hiss of steam pumps and routine grinding of metal cogs, can be heard from the confines of his large building...

The Transcendent Conclave is said to have announced themselves more fully today. Their proceedings were interrupted, when General Drexia is said to have arrived. He and the Prophet Razul exited to the Floating Enclave, briefly, and when the two returned, the General wore the Conclave's colors. Many panic at being left once again without an overseer, but others say Trenada is not far...

Many are uncertain what this means, but all are positive there is at least one clear meaning: Drexia has defected.

An eventful day has passed on the 22nd of Eleasis. It began early in the morning when House D'Erlon threw open their doors and marched upon the Ziggurat in force, quickly securing it in the absence of any Rubies there. As their patron, lord Michel D'Erlon decleared himself the regent of Ymph, a ragged, dirty but proud caravan with Duke Antoine Trenada at the head finally arrived at the former Colony. After a short exchange of words between the two, they parted ways to prepare for a duel which would determine who would rule the city.

As hours passed, Trenada held an announcement within the old Sharboneth Citadel. There it was revealed the Michel D'Erlon had fallen to the blades of a Ruby for his House's treacherous act against the will of the Count, his house fallen and all of his family dead. It was also decleared that the Armada would renew their efforts as protectors of the city and taking on the law enforcement that the Armsmen previously did, although as they said: faster and more efficient. A ruling body consisting of the nobility, the elite of the city, would form a Court to advice Trenada on governmental matters; and colonists were offered to send him a letter should they think themselves eligible for this position. It was expected of the nobles to already be a recognized figure, lead a group and have some influence already.

As the day waned, the night was slightly less dark and foreboding for the Colonists of Ymph.

As the sun began to sink below the horizon, The Colony was on edge as various Stygians, militiamen and envoys entered and exited the Citadel in large droves. Colonists and adventurer alike speculated on the cause of this sudden burst of activity but its intent was soon shown.

A herald surrounded by numerous Stygians and Militiamen made their way across the ziggurat to the rowdy and utterly chaotic "free" haven that was originally The Docks District, standing atop the walls as he addressed the thugs, beggars and brave commonfolk that still made their homes there. The herald read out a proclamation, penned Antoine Trenada that The Docks district was to rejoin The Colony proper and that any false claims to the territory was to be considered boid, the gangs and thugs were also ordered to lay down their arms as Stygian forces were to promptly begin occupying the area and restore order.

It was not without bloodshed however, the notorious gang known as "The Sons" attacked the Stygian Party led by Remy Crallet and his men. Amongst them however was another man, a man whispered by many throughout The Colony had shown his face before.

Horton Grouse, whispered to be the ex Admiral of Ixpadia Sabuth, conquerer of Ymph and the man to give the order for her fleet to abandon Ymph stood tall alongside Remy Crallet before descending into a small speech regarding Duke Trenada's ridiculous claims over The Docks, he urged for those of The Docks to support him against his "Crusade" against Tyranny and to continue the resistance against The Stygians before departing with his men in tow.

Many speculate what Duke Trenada's response will be to the slaughter of his men and resistance of his rightful rule.

On this day, the notorious rebel, Jackin Hoxie, approached the city gates with two members of the Stygian Armada as his hostages. Specialist Kedrian approached Jackin and attempted a peaceful negotiation. Word has it that Jackin requested a man in prison in exchange for the two members of the Armada. Specialist Kedrian left the scene and returned later with the man. The two spoke further. Members of the colony say that Jackin did not uphold his end of the deal, and after promising the trade of one-for-two, he demanded five thousand coins. Specialist Kedrian did not agree to this deal. Jackin then threw a fire bomb on the scene. He and the rebels quickly killed their hostages. Stygian Crossbowmen on the city gate opened fire on Jackin. Infantrymen swarmed him. Jackin Hoxie was killed within seconds. Many of the remaining rebels were killed by the Stygians. No prisoners were taken. Those who survived had to retreat to safety.

Later in the day, Specialist Kedrian made an announcement to the colony. He spoke of how the rebels, not the Stygians, spilled first blood, and that those who supported the rebellion followed Jackin's example of bloodshed, murder, and chaos. At the end of his announcement, he declared that the Stygian Armada won this day, and that the day's events will serve as an example to those who consider disrupting the harmony of the colony with violence.

The Colony saw more bloodshed this day as the infamous group of Garagosians known as "The Legion" threw their lot in with the Rebels of The Docks as they attacked a Stygian who approached the group.

Rumours are abound that the incident occured when a member of The Legion challenged a Aspirant of The Armada to mortal combat, the challenge was declined and two Stygians went to the outskirts of The Docks to taunt The Garagosian for his cowardice in attempting to face weaker challenges then he could grasp. Angered by this, The group attacked but The Stygians quickly made a swift retreat and made calls for The docks and Temple District to be barricaded with the already strained Stygian forces from last nights conflict.

A few moments later, a bounty of 1000 ducats for every head of The Legion taken and 1500 for everyone brought in was announced and said to come from the pocket of Lord Antoine Trenada himself.

Dark clouds gather over Ymph.

On this day a group of 'Dock rebels' and various other criminals were said to have milled about outside the gates, drinking a dizzying array of potions magical before rushing the gates and killing a few Stygian defenders and some random citizens that happened to be passing the area, before retreating as the gates were locked.

Duke Trenada is said to be furious, and mentioned he will personally be on the battlefield next time they attempt such an opportunistic and unimaginative murder spree.

An explosion in the night was the talk of the town this morning. For those residents of the Docks and the Ziggurat both, it became clear that somebody had apparently destroyed the convenient and narrow passage connecting the two areas. Gossips put forward a variety of suppositions, ranging from bolts of lightning thrown down by the wizards who reside above the city to noblemen paying saboteurs to collapse the passageway to send away the stink of the slums. The most common rumor, however, and the one apparently backed by the only alleged witness, was a team of Sons of the Sabuth deliberately setting off a blast there with alchemist's fire.

Either way it appears the desolate and ruinous section of the old city, northeast of the Ziggurat, is the only ticket to and from the Docks for those who wish to avoid the interesting aroma of the Sewers...

Meanwhile, most people still seem to be talking about yesterdays events that saw the end of The Targusian Cult that had recently sprung up in The Colony alongside the Wereboar known as Farrow.

Reports are varied depending on who you ask but most people agree that the beginning of the end came when fighting was heard at the entrance of The Temple District. Militiamen, Stygians and adventurer alike took arms to the area and eventually brought them in to face justice. Farrow was also quickly felled within the Temple of Divine Right when he attempted to ambush the citizens of The Colony.

Many question their reasoning for blatantly attacking the ziggurat, some say they were nothing more than frenzied fanatic's that had nothing to lose, other's say that they were involved in a ritual that marks their attack as only the beginning of things to come.

Whatever their motives, the few that were taken alive were sentenced to exile amongst the rabble and "oppressed" in The Docks district. Curiously enough however, they have seemed to disappear all together, some whispers saying they were slain on their arrival in the docks by a heavily enchanted, equally crazed individual.

News spread around the city that just yesterday, Duke Antoine Trenada called out Admiral Grouse to come to the Inner City Ruins. Both present there with their own followers, the boy Razul and Drexia as a third party arriving later, it is said they spoke of the recent tumults and the precarious position that had befallen the city.

Among the citizens of the Duchy, it is said that Trenada demanded the cease of hostilities from the Docks or he would bring his elite mercenaries to the place to establish order once and for all. Faced with the threat of a final confrontation, Grouse relented and the Duke allowed them to dwell within the Docks until the time came for the city to be rejoined once more, as long as the promise was kept not to continue the recent attacks from their volatile gang community members. This was met with the immediate approval of a large part of the residents who are eager to let the Docksmen squabble among themselves, instead of forcefully having to contend with such a portion and resource-drain among their own populace. In the Duchy of Trenada, people speak eagerly of the future and the promises the rule of the Duke brings.

In all corners of the Docks the news spread that their charismatic patriot, Horton Grouse, was able not only to deflect an imminent invasion of the Blue Shark devils but also to secure the freedom and indepence of the Docks from the rule of Trenada. It is said that he stood before Trenada with not a doubt or concern upon him, and his manner caused the battleproven duelist to falter. Booze is eagerly spread in large quantity among the patrons of the Wastrel, much of it paid by the man of the hour himself. Among the dwellers, many look forward to what intentions Grouse will say when he speaks of the future of the Docks soon.

Yet for all the words spoken that rings more favorable for their own home, the more unbiased will tell that it was the Transcendant Conclave and Razul who were the decisive factor for the agreement to happen. At the perilous grounds of a war that would completely shatter the whole city, the boy under the watchful protection of the former Ruby General announced that should aggressive actions occur they would side with the defendant to protect the stability and future of the whole city. A tense agreement was finally reached and each party went to their own seperate section of the netherese ruins.

War was evaded for the sake of preservation and peace, and the parts are content. For now.

The Nightriser entrance into the Inner City Ruins two days ago still pass from mouth to mouth, citizens speaking fearful of the renewed interest from the undead below. Most believe the respite since the Veil of Selune has come to an end and they dread what this means for the future. They are anxious and eagerly looking to their protectors, some even beginning to look upwards to the Floating Conclave where it is said its wizards can protect the city from ever being struck by Nightrisers again.

The recent assaults from the dwellers below has the Duchy on its edge. In increasing numbers the Nightrisers have struck the city again and again with no foretelling of a cease to come. As night falls, more and more barricade themselves within their homes or enter the Kingsman's for shelter in numbers, their host seen to draft the more regular visitors for guard duty. As the numbers of militia-men thin, so do the ranks of volunteers seeking to defend their home. The few more determined citizens and veterans of Red Eleint or the Ixpadian War have been seen to approach the Pallid Masks and subsequently entering the depths below clad in the pale outfit. For all ventures below, they are always fewer in number or badly injured when they return.

Words spreads around the Docks and beyond of the movements of an elderly man amongst the destitute back alleys of the slums. Shuffling along on his cane, Father Michael the Pauper as many have come to know him administers to the poor of the district, offering his healing touch and hopeful prayers. The ascetic elderly cleric of Ilmater is also rumored to be one of Admiral Grouse's most trusted advisors, and regularly provides spiritual guidance to the Sons. Talk in the Docks is that he will be installed within the soon-to-be-completed Ilmateri temple as its senior priest, where the godly man may better tend to the concerns of the poor and forgotten.

An eventful day passes upon the Archipelago. During the twilight hours towards the night, a Caliphar of the Transcendant Conclave called for mercenaries to protect him as he descended into the Sewers to check the state of their undead repelling shield, raised a few days ago. Talk was had of stretching it further to encompass pieces of the sewers. Whatever the thoughts were, they were quickly silenced as a ragged group left the Sewers a bit later, carrying the broken body of the Caliphar to the Mausoleum. Nothing has been mentioned of the cause yet.

Dust settles the morn of Marpenoth 17th. After being warned of an impending Nightriser invasion, the city immediately began preparing for the eventuality that would happen during the night. A gathering was held within the Mythallar chamber where possible actions were discussed. Some say House Harvix suggested the use of undead against the risers, others say Stenton proposed to make use of his slaves. None of these measures were taken as the people put their trust in the Stygian Armada, the militia, the Pallid Mask and the Transcendant Conclave.

The attack began upon the slopes of the Ziggurat where a small force of Nightrisers initiated what would be a drawn-out trap. Eventually, the defenders pursued the risers into the Inner City Ruins, where they were quickly secluded off from the rest of the city as Nightrisers portaled in to make a decisive strike against them. Many brave warriors fell within these ruins before they managed to escape through the Sewers. The battle was taken from the Ziggurat up at the Conclave before the defenders moved to the aid of the Docks. As the final hours of the night passed, the entirety of the city had once more been made safe.

While most of the Ziggurat appears to have been spared due to the preparations made, the streets of the Docks have been painted dark. For the first time in a year, Nightrisers once more stamp upon the soils of freedom. Caught off guard by a foe they never thought would threaten them again, the sheer numbers were stopped short of genocide by the Sons of Sabuth, rallying the people and less fearful gangmembers against the undead menace. Nothing save the broken bones of both the living and the unliving tell how hard they were pressed in the battle, those surviving unwilling to part with many words in its wake. Forced back into a brutal reality, preparations are being made to ensure a lesser extent of destruction for any subsequent attacks.

The Conclave, hitherto unreachable by any hostile forces, found themselves under siege as their celebrated shield was torn apart. The Nightrisers struck hard but were held off by the Conclave's wizards, quickly reinforced by the defenders below. Despite the aid, a few of their numbers fell to the undead.

Shaken from the breach and numbers of the risers, citizens are barricading themselves within their homes, fearful for what the night will bring. For in the aftermath of the invasion, a Commander of the Nightrisers showed himself on top of the Ziggurat with the dreaded message:

It is only the beginning.

Once more blood runs freely upon the streets of the Docks despite the backbreaking efforts of its defenders. The ruins east of the Docks collapsed and secluded it off from the rest of the city as the Nightrisers used this to push undisturbed into the Docks, where the defenders met them in battle. Holding the ground they managed to keep the battle from spilling into the streets. This caused the Nightrisers to deviate from their course and instead attack from the ruins between the Ziggurat and the Docks on the north side, where the Gypsies reside. Drawn to the spot, the defenders stormed in vain to help them.

The Undead then once more continued their assault from their first direction, entering the streets unhindered save for the few guards remaining. When the defenders returned to the streets of the Docks, they quickly found themselves alone with the Nightrisers, barred doors and fighting coming from the many buildings where the living had retreated. Pushing the invaders out of the streets and into the ruins, the valiant protectors of life fought the risers and even entered one of the portals to stop the attacks, killing a powerful Riser within. Dawn arrived to provide a relieve of the battles and to greet a horrible sight.

Bones litter the streets of the Docks where the deceased and the twice-dead remain. Corpses are dragged by the still living to the Mausoleum and the tombs beneath, where proper sarcophaguses quickly are becoming a rarity. Blood mix with dust in the alleyways and discolour the ground. Despite the grim scene, the people of the Docks still raise their heads and acknowledge that once more, the cause of freedom has proven stronger than the hatred of the dead. Yet it is becoming clear that should these attacks continue, there may soon be few alive to treasure it.

Upon the Ziggurat the citizens of the Duchy whisper in fear of when the Risers once more turn their attention upon them. Few Pallid Mask scouts leave the Mausoleum these days, evidence of the dangers slumbering still in the Ruins Below. Militiamen man their posts with stoic demeanor and many of the residents keep their homes locked during the night.

The city is slowly crumbling under the onslaught of the dead.

Terror grips the city once more as blood marred the ancient cobbles of The Colony, this time it was not shed by the rusted swords of Nightrisers but by the tensions of The Stygians and The Sons of Sabuth finally coming to a head. Rumours say that a Ruby assassin of The Count entered The Docks under the guise of invisibilty, brutally beating a Son with unrelenting fury and murdering several commoners before making his dramatic escape.

Things further spiraled out of control as an attack was made on The Temple District by The Sons in retaliation for the murders, leaving a Stygian Veteran and Militiaman dead in a pool of their own blood. The Stygians quickly made their move and barricaded The Docks entrance by The Inner Ruins with Duke Antoine Trenada leading them and demanding that Admiral Horton Grouse arrives to explain his actions.

Heated debated swiftly ensued, each leader accusing the other for the beginning of this bloodshed and each making demands of each other before swiftly departing to their respective Districts. Duke Trenada decreed that any Son that steps foot into The Duchy will be killed on sight and demanded the Son "Fleur" to be turned over to The Stygians in seven days to answer to her crimes. Admiral Grouse taunted The Dukes words, inviting him to come claim her if he wished and warned that further attacks will continue if The Count's bodyguards make their presence known in The Docks again.

As the nightrisers continue to wage war from below, one wonders. How long each side can keep up the hostility's between them before all is lost?

Rumors of humanoid advanced scouting parties are spouting in the settlement. Say orcs were spotted on the reef, others speak of hostile goblins investigating sewers, while others pretend that kobolds ventured close to the gates. Whether these rumors are true, few can say for sure, but the scent of fear is in the air.

One cannot help  but wonder what would happen should another threat arise with daylight, when night is already filled with danger, and with the Colony’s defenders at each other’s throats...

A number of men were arrested and sentenced to death in The Old Port Arena today after they took part in the brutal murder of a House Harvix associate. Some say the trial was a sham, some applaud the harsh sentence. Rumor has it that they'll be transported within the next few days to Old Port aboard the schooner "Timberwind" which is docked in the Gobsquat taking on supplies. Tickets to watch the execution are rumored to be between five and ten gold, with tickets to travel aboard the Timberwind to Old Port going for fifty gold a person.

// Ship sails at 6 EST Tuesday.

Rumours spread of a rescue attempt on the convicts bound for Old Port by various dissidents and rebels, led by both the Order and the Sons; and even a member or two of the Conclave being present as well. Most of the would-be rescuers were subdued in an intense fight in the Gobsquat, with one or two managing to escape; one of whom managed to turn into a flaming demon calling himself 'Grey', fighting his way out. Defeated, the rest were cast in chains and shipped to Old Port to join those they would rescue in the pits.

All accounts verify that the staged gladiatorial bout in the Arena of Old Port was short and very brutal. Three managed to survive by sheer cunning and fortitude, mostly by playing dead until the last of the Count's gladiators had fell. These three were rewarded with their freedom, as Trenada promised.

A few commoners admire the bravery of these people, but most joke about the stupidity they displayed in either murdering Patricians or attempting to rescue convicted murderers of Patricians...

Amongst the dead were said to be the indomitable Sons warrior 'Old Man Franco' along with the Flower of the Docks, several Pallid Mask warriors, the Conclave's ambassador to the Duchy, and some amongst the Order too-- many speculate as to the political ramifications of this collective trespass against Duchy...

The gossip of the day within the Docks tell of an assassin murdering one of the Sons, Monald Asen, in the middle of the Docks in broad daylight. Under attack by the locals, the assassin managed to cut off the head and escape, bleeding profoundly from the many wounds inflicted. No news are heard of the assassin being caught and many discuss what the possible ramifications of this will be.

During the night the Nightrisers once more struck the Ziggurat. In the aftermath a portal opened which several citizens were seen entering, before it flickered out of existance. Eventually they returned under escort to the Stygian Citadel and remained there for some time.

Hunters return to the colony late last night with a strange story on their lips. Brilliant flashing lights were seen dancing about a stone circle. Most blame some foul Stargazer magic, as they were reported to be present in droves, chanting and dancing around the fae lights.

A very large group of of adventurers were seen leaving town in the early morning lights, supposedly to disrupt a meeting of various humanoid tribes.

While the gathering humanoids were promptly crushed, a band of orcs took advantage of the absence of many colony defenders to launch an attack against the gates.

In the aftermath of the battle, although victory was achieved, some questions remain unanswered. What was the real issue of the meeting? How did colony defenders come about it's location and timing? Was the orc raid on the town coordinated with the departure of many defenders? How would the tribes react to the death of their emissaries?

For now, only time and gossip can tell.

Today terror poured from the sky as hundreds of blood sucking stirges poured down upon the Ziggurat.

Although the foul beasts were no threat to most hardened citizens, many a child or unprotected colonist was left laying to the ground, pale as death itself, as the stirge left no single drop of blood to their victims.

As the danger flew away inland, a group of adventurers was seen leaving town to investigate this new threat. Later in the night, some were heard boasting of taking down a strange bat like lycanthrope that might have been commanding the blood sucking birds.

Citizens can only hope such tales are true, and that the threat is indeed over.

Several tremors shook the Ziggurat in the hours before sunset the 8th of Uktar. A trio of Pallid Mask Scouts alongside a Crusader ventured into the depths to investigate the cause of this. An hour before midnight and with no reports back from the earlier group, Infantryman Gimble alongside Templar Drake and Initiate Turnskull lead a group of volunteers to discover the fate of the scouts. Storming up from the sewers, they managed to alert the city just as Nightriser portals appeared and the beginning of an invasion occured.

The quick warning and the determination of the defenders managed to ensure few losses of civilian lives but the defenders were hard pressed as the Undead struck the Ziggurat, Noble's Gate, Docks and Transcendant Conclave. In a bold attempt to draw out the leader, Templar William Drake called out to the Sub-Warden through the use of the sending system. Upon the floating Conclave with the edge of dawn approaching, he was answered by the Nightriser Commander leading the forces.

Blood mixed with the rain as the defenders fought desperately to end the Commander and his forces. Nearing exhaustion and supplies approaching oblivion, a final push was made as Drake duelled the Commander under constant barrage by the two opposite forces before the Templar was able to land the final blow, forever banishing the mighty Nightriser and stopping the invasion.

Despite the victory, many are concerned about the rumours coming from the battle upon the Conclave floor. It was a battered gathering that descended from the battlefield and with the knowledge that the Nightriser defeated was but the leader of the initial strike forces, many fear that the Sub-Warden himself will come to lead the next attacks. The citizens now look to their defenders for guidance, with many beginning to cheer the pale crusaders for their constant vigilance and aid. They are eager to be assured that when their opponent marches upon the battlefield, there will people there they can trust and support that will ensure their survival. No matter who.

During the daylight hours where the sun is rised high above the lands, a great deal of debate amongst the more intellectual and scholarly population has sprung up regarding peculiar activity from their airbourne protector.

People speak of the sun shining brighter than ever whilst others say that the sun has infact grown in size, the more fanatical and outrageous rumours say that a group of Lathanderites were behind the suns apparant change in appearance and are hoping the recent change will do some good against the onslaught of Nightrisers.

Whatever is happening, no one seems certain.

This evening a brutal scene played out in the docks. In the dead of night tiny assassins were said to have made their way to the tanners shop, wherein they butchered both the proprieter himself and three local hunters. Many citizens speak with disgust and fear at the scene within. The tanner himself appeared to have been partially digested by one of the attackers and regurgitated bit by bit.

The Sons of Sabbath boast at having slain one of the Stargazer killers, though lament that its conspirators managed to spirit away the body before they could secure it.

Some citizens in the docks now speak fearfully of the local savages, and and demand for the fine pelts of the jungle cats has dropped somewhat in the settlement.

However, a few citizens in the docks remark that the Stygians never allowed such things to happen. More than a few proclaim that, "At least those mercs knew how to keep the savages in line." - though few are bold enough to do so in earshot of the Sons.

Far to the Northeast, a brilliant streaming light of orange energy pierces the evening sky, illuminating several miles of landscape that is clearly visible to all citizens of the Ziggurat... many look up in wonder, though some simply dismiss this as yet another seasonal shift in an already bizarre climate. Still, doomsayers are quick to place the blame on Stargazer tricks, or even worse, Nightriser magics.

All things considered, however, business continues as usual on the Ziggurat.

As well as the usual flood of rumours following the mysterious streaming light, alot of speculation coming out of the rumourmill is pointing towards The Conclaves "experiments" within the Inner City Ruins as the cause.

The first test held twoday ago resulted in the decimation of a whole building with frighteningly large scorch marks being left behind. Although the Conclave are quick to warn any citizens in the vicinity of the experiments that will take place, anger is growing from the citizens of The Duchy that claim The Conclave are attempting to build and restore ancient Netherese weaponry so they can blackmail the Duchy for whatever they wish.

In a rare sight of reluclant union, citizens from The Docks also appear to be wary and somewhat disturbed by The recent development, claiming that The Conclave could be the next tyrants they will oppose.

There are a fair few however that find the whole affair fasinating and possibly have the ability to create a better home for all within the ruins, these people can be seen heading towards The Conclave camp within the Temple District.

The final days have come. Rumours have long foretold of the decisive strike from the Nightrisers, led by a Sub-Warden, to arrive at last upon the city. After months of trepidation and battles, the lines are drawn and the still before the storm has the citizens at unease.

Upon the Ziggurat, there appears to be few preparations made. The Armada stoically patrol their domain, the militia appearing more nervous as the hours pass and few efforts made to contribute towards the defenses. From the pale crusaders' side, the very same told to have the means to end this, no visible preparations have been made. The few active members upon the Ziggurat appear confident in their dozen or so members being able to halt the advance of the undead. The Lords have focused their defenses at their respective estates, Lord Durjure also opening his house to those seeking shelter inside. A few have also put their trust into the Shrouded Isle Syndicate Library and sought shelter within nervously. Some of the richest patricians have approached the Inner Piers seeking passage to Old Port to weather the coming assault.

Within the Docks a few efforts have been made to bolster the morale prior to the invasion. Many of the inhabitants spend their gold drinking the anxiousness away or pursuing other means to alleviate their fear. A few daring has been seen approaching the drug traders seeking botanical means to bolster their resolve for the coming fight. Eyes are turning to the Sons of Sabuth as time goes by.

Above, the Floating Conclave flies resolute and little activity can be seen from their side. Roughly seven days ago, their members were seen coming from the ruins below in ragged and torn outfits with little voice to their doings there. Since then their calls have rung out in warning through the Mythallar about the coming attack and many speculate of what they will do once battle is joined in full.

For all the misgivings, thoughts and deeds, one thing remains clear.

The Nightrisers are coming. Soon.

The invasion began upon the brink of the night. Simultaneously coming from both the Inner Ruins to the Docks and arriving at the Ziggurat, the defenders quickly found them under siege as they held strong against the waves. After but a few encounters, the faint sensation that foretold the shield to be lifted ran through the city. As Vess spoke that the settlement was safe once more, Forgotten Templar Grimfael interrupted and called for all valorous men to join him in the march upon the Nightrisers below. A large group descended into the Sewers.

As the majority had gone below to find the enemy leaders, the Nightrisers managed to disrupt the shield through their High Warlock and launched another attack upon the city. Before they could reach it, defenders led by Grimfael ascended from the Sunken Enclave to hold the line while another group went after the Sub-Warden. Hours passed as the valiant adventurers fought off the dead, then the tell-tale notion of the shield being raised was felt once more and not long in its wake, the remaining group arrived with victory.

After months of battling the increased presence of the Nightrisers, the city had at last preserved once more and with the aid of the Conclave, ensured that few more such strikes would present themselves. In the very end, all set aside their differences to ensure an end to an enemy threatening them all.

Two Sons of Sabuth, a man and a woman, charged into the colony under invisibility and subdued a number of people before being captured by the hand of Lord D'Erlon and Duke Trenada himself. Most think they were mad, but the cause of the madness is the talk of the town... Some say it was mist essence, others say a Nightrisen curse, and still more say that they'd go mad just trying to live in the docks.

They were executed privately, and their heads formed the backdrop for a well received speech by Duke Trenada.

During the late evening of Hammer the third, the Black Hundred alongside members of the Armada and volunteers set out to bring the fight to the Stewards of Ymph. During a steady pour of rain in the darkness of the early night, they moved with torches and oil to the a tree standing at the mouth of Wyldwater. Left unopposed to their work, they set fire to the ancient tree and left it to burn into an ashy husk. As they left their place of violation, rumours say they were beset by two Stewards fiercely fighting this attack upon their tended domain. Bested by the city's advantage in numbers, they were later brought back to the city in chains. It is also said that Orgerribbit struck the forces of civilization only later to have to retreat, but not before mortally wounding two citizens.

Upon the top of the Ziggurat the two dead captives were paraded and humiliated by Floud of the Black Hundred as the Duke elevated Captain Gull to nobility. Under the oath to deal with the enemies of the Dominion once and for all, the Captain took on the mantle of a Lord to the approval of his companions. Drinks were shared in Kingsman afterwards in celebration. While citizens praise Gull's efforts against the enemies of the Duchy and against the savages of nature that have deprived them of two nobles, many speak with unease about the rumours of demon worship as well as public cruelty perceived in the streets.

Another rumour passing from mouth to mouth is that of an unsuccessful goblin insurrection within Squatter's Den. While the details are sparse, it is said that a goblin fraction attempted to overthrow Chief Pogglit and change their settlement's stance towards the rest of the city.

Hammer the fifth brings a foreboding event as a demonic emissary appeared before the gates of the city. The emissary spoke on his master's behalf, the Marquis of the Seven Terrors, bringing the offer of helping the city with its enemies for the trade of two citizens every second day. Representing the city, Infantryman Eldridge firmly refused this bargain even as the demon went on to explain his master would then forcibly take what he craved from them instead. Two waves of demonic invaders wrought havoc upon the main gates, leaving the defenders weakened but holding. Although the Marquis appeared to taunt the defenders, he did not take part of the battle and was not seen in the aftermath.

Replacing the Infantrymen lost at the gates, a pair of militiamen nervously took post by the outer defenses and held them without further events for the day.

Rumors of strange mountain nymphs, Oreads, known as Daughters of the Mountain have spread through the colony. Some say it's traveller's tales, others swear they have rested their eyes upon the mountain beauties.

Lead by Zeulisad Vohm, Conclave members set out to the mountains in search of nature's spirits. What truly happened is known only to those that ascended the mountain slopes this day, but the group that set out came back scattered: some in panic, some carrying bodies of their companions. Some claim the mountain spirits crumbled the mountain upon them in anger, others claim the oread's servants ambushed the party, while others stake the reviled wild sorcerer known as Toad claimed yet other victims.

Although far away from the settlement, people murmur that the spirits might yet come closer. Other point out that should the mountain paths be closed, the ore supplies will dwindle. People start looking at their neighbour for clues of them being charmed by the Oread, and suspicion rises. The common folks murmur about the law enforcer's lack of pursuit of the Toad. Some sneer -ever so discreetly - at the Conclave's failed expedition, while others fear what may come next.

Only time will tell, but the mountain peeks are now viewed from afar with more fear and wonder, and only the very brave or foolish dare tread it alone.

The Duchy so long terrorized by the vicious and vile Orgeribbit the Wanton, rests a little safer knowing he has been slain. What enraptures the minds of the Duchy even more however is that this demonic, foul, fearsome little Toad who killed High Lords, Ordermen, and acquired magnificent power was not brought low by a mob, or by even a single almighty hero. Rather, his corpse was returned to the Duchy devoid of its usual menace by a single woman, the somewhat renowned merchant and artist Patrician Alize di Perugia.

Her unlikely victory has sent a whirlwind of talk amongst the populace. The story gets even wilder, according to the talk of the commoners. The enormous bounty on the beast, ten thousand coins, enough for a woman to live the rest of her life upon, was gifted in it's entirety to the Velvet Mask Establishment, a subsidiary of the Kingsman Inn. Patrons and Fans of the Arts hail Patrician di Perugia as the greatest thing to happen to the cultured community since the inception of Ymph as a Civilized Society.

Still, some have doubts. How could such a modest statured woman have brought low the Wanton Orgeribbit? Many step lightly, now, unsure of her seemingly overpowering cunning.

Hammer 15, 1377:

A stunned audience watches on as Lord Stenton personally executes his own son, and another Son of Sabuth atop the Ziggurat. It's said the Lord even wept openly after the execution, declaring a similar fate, no matter what the family name might be, to any that would dare defile the Duke's peace upon the Duchy.

Though cries of anguish and rage poured out from the docks, no violence was had this day. Tensions rise between the Docksmen and the Ziggurat, especially following news of Lord Gull's inquisition.

Peasants sharpen pitchforks, fishermen look to their gutting knives, and all too eager Sons of Sabuth mutter to one another, looking for some way to take revenge.

Peace is a fragile thing. None can be too sure how long this treaty will last. Some say it will endure, some say it won't last through the tenday.

One thing is for certain, however, merchants and dealers of weaponry are seeing sky high profits as the moon begins to rise into the evening sky, and night falls upon yet another chaotic day in the Duchy.

The Daughters of the Mountain and their dreaded Mother are no more. The mountains of Mist now seem as quiet as may be for the wary traveller.

Story tells of slaves freed from the spirit’s charms that stormed the mountain for revenge. As the rumor grows from telling to telling, it is told mighty savage barbarians fought their way all to the mountain tops, fighting of hordes of enslaved creatures, avoiding landslides and deadly magic. Little is known on how the witches truly met their demise, but one can only admire the courage of those who dared meet the creatures into their realm, or wonder at their folly.

The common man can only be glad such threat is over, but if it is true enemies of the Dominion have enough power to put down such mighty creatures, who knows what they hold in store for the settlement? Were Stygian or Conclave members helpful in anyway? These questions remain unanswered, and not openly asked.

Rumors persist of two terrible blasts of magic slamming into the docks this eve. Freemen are rumored to have been taken as slaves, kobolds as the culprits. Citizens of Ymph remain on edge. Where will these creatures strike next? With no warning, how can anyone feel safe?

A public ceremony headed by Duke Trenada took place upon the Ziggurat peak today, with quite a crowd of citizens and adventurers showing to see the ascension of talented local artist Alize di Perugia to the peerage. Duke Trenada was said to have assured his subjects that the Duchy was growing in strength due to their contributions, before calling upon Perugia and exacting an oath of fealty. She then rose as a Lady, and gave a small speech herself, promising to work hard for the cultural enrichment of the Duchy. The Duke then finished with the assurance that any other person who distinguishes themselves in service to the Duchy can rise to similar heights.

Meanwhile, disturbing and confused rumors of Lord Albert Gull's demise at the hands of Docks-based forces fly through the city, some condemning his overzealousness and others grieving for the loss of this staunch patriot of the Dominion. The Dominion's official response as yet remains to be seen...

After a great deal of commotion is witnessed in the Starwood, a message printed on leaves is dispersed about the forested area for all to see:

"For invading our trees, and destroying the peace we work hard to preserve, along with the mutilation and murder of a beloved Satyr that we kept within our protection, the Starwood Stargazers hereby announce a bounty of 5000 gold coins and a treasure from our stockpile to the one that returns the un-named halfling in pink and black armor, wielding a hand axe to us, to face justice."

First of Alturiak was met with the last push of the Marquis of the Seven Terrors, a demon lord that had cast its eyes upon the city. Adventurers where drawn to the Western Cliffs Barrows, where red light illuminated the nightsky in what would be the presage to a terrible event. It is said that a group led by the dwarven lord Durgrim, an half-orc, Mortician Ghask and Bailey, Vittoria, Dirzin, Tomas, Caius and Sebastian of the Conclave led a noble effort to stave off a demon invasion by themselves, fighting tooth and nail for every inch of ground sacrificed. Overwhelmed and routed, the demons managed to push to the Main Gates where the defenders were pushed up to the rampart trying to hold off the masses. As the last numbers arrived, the Marquis himself appeared to lead his forces. Singed by fire and fear, defenders led by the Armada and Conclave fought against the intruders and managed at last to mortally wound the terrible spawn of evil. Its great hulk collapsing and shaking the earth heralded the end to the terror at work and the city breathes easier knowing that its demise has been met.

Yet many still wonder what events made it possible for the demon to begin its wake of destruction and who called the being forth to ravage the city.

Cries of outrage and calls for blood rise as the city wakes up the fifth of Alturiak to meet the desecration left behind of the night's events. A thick column of dark smoke stinking of scorched meat and hide rise from the stall of Butcher Jonny Btaerak. What meat and tools were present during the explosion of Alchemist's Fire now remain spoilt and broken, Jonny himself complaining loudly of an half-orc doing the deed. While none perished during the explosion, the act has put back the meat preparation for the Dominion and leaving the residents worried for the temporary loss of the considerable contribution to the city's stock of food. South of Warden's Gate, most of the rubble left in the wake of another explosion has been cleared out enough to make a passage for the Gates. Hunters have begun to wander out in greater numbers to hunt what they may to cover the loss, the meat crudely prepared to serve the hungry.

In the Dock volunteers have begun to shuffle the dozen or so bodies away from the dusty streets, removing the possessions the dead have cannot use and arming themselves with the dead's weaponry. A few have taken advantage of the dead to raise the call for retribution or announce their unfailing protection to take advantage of the fearing, using the event to stir the hatred against the Dominion and the Armada especially. Despite the proclamations, the eyes of the freemen watch the Sons of Sabuth for guidance. Hardest hit and with their arcanist of Fury returned maimed, the thirst of retribution is evident from their members but nothing decisive has been announced. The precipice of war has not been closer since before the treaty was made as the words of the nights events pass from ear to ear:

It is said that in the late of the night, Infantrymen Eldridge and Koji alongside Patrician Hatsworth snuck into the Docks and assaulted Karida Intisar of the Sons. Cutting down the opposition and managing to arrest the Son, they left the fallen and the broken in the wake of their assault but not without casualty. As forces massed against them, they left Patrician Hatsworth, famous from his Hatsworth's Herald, laying dead upon the streets. Not long after getting the captive and themselves to the Dominion, Eldridge himself was captured by the Consort Dirzin of the Conclave and brought to the Docks under assault by the guards of the Armada and Militia. Meanwhile two explosions rocked the city as barrels of alchemist's fire blew up in response to the murders in the Docks. It is said the carrier of a third was captured and brought to the cells, there to await judgement. As the morning approached, certain war was halted by the interference of the Conclave once more to stabilize the city, asking for an exchange of prisoners and halt of conflict.

The exchange was made near the Gypsy camp seperating the two parts of the city, Infantryman Eldridge for Son Intisar and a second Talossian. Although the exchange was said to happen without bloodshed, Eldridge was noted to return with little but the armor he wore and Intisar leaving her left hand behind in the Stygian Cells. While peace was restored for both sides, the true ramifications and response have yet to be seen and eyes of suspicion and rage have in full began to watch the Floating Conclave above from the Dominion citizenry.

A curious sight was seen 7th of Alturiak. From the Shrouded Isle Library, several members of the Conclave including Caliphar Ridgeway were escorted in shackles by members of the Armada and the Militia, the priestess of Talona known as 'Mother' walking with them in an injured condition. They were brought to the Citadel and sendings were made for Consort Bhonn to show herself with an object stolen. As minutes passed by, the members of the Conclave were released and the Consort brought back in shackles, later facing public humiliation in the Stocks for not heeding the Armada's calls.

It was not long after that three gargantuan wyverns struck the city, spewing forth bolts of lightning and descending to rip people apart. Despite the ferocity of the attack, few casualties were had and a wyvern was slain both upon the face of the Ziggurat and within the Docks, the last fleeing upon the death of its kin. Within the inns a few of the bolder citizens have announced that they will be the slayer of the last wyvern, people eagerly cheering them on and offering drinks of encouragement.

Meanwhile, the residents of the Docks have been hit with nightly raids from Sahuagin. The lethal encounters are met with unease and people shy away from the cliffsides at night, where the slopes to the sea are watched with increasing dread.

Bugs.

Bugs and more bugs.

Many a people had stumbled already into nesting niches of these huge beetles, but today chaos erupted in the Docks as hundreds of bugs began to pour from narrowly dug out tunnels.

Anyone present quickly took arms to repell the creeping doom, and the bravest ventured down the tunnels to take care of any more remaining threat. Those who came back out spoke of unhatched eggs -quickly stompled -  and of enormous brood guardian beetles.

Although defenders say some kind of queen was slain, what of the thousands of unhatched eggs still hidden from the eyes?

Swarms in the skies!

Swarms upon swarms of tiny insects pourred down from the heavens upon the crops of the settlement, and within minutes those unlucky farms in their path were left stranded of any kind of life.

Upon the dismal cry of farmers, defenders rushed to defend the outter farms, and thanks to their timely help, the swarm plague stopped before reaching the major farmlands, and the threat of famine has vanished.

Now, many farmers speak in thanks the name of the Lady of Poison, for in the absence of militia or stygian help, it was her priest who successfully took charge of the defense of the farms...

Rumors spread like wildire in the city of a confrontation between emissaries from the Transcendant Conclave and the Sons in the Docks, which quickly spiralled out of control. Apparently spurred by events earlier, in which a Patrician of the Duchy died, it seems like the Conclave moved to enforce the vague treaty agreed to months ago by Grouse and Trenada and bring in the culprit. A fight erupted, and while the few magicians and their consorts led by a seemingly unstoppable halfling, as well as a fearsome brawler who got involved, intially scored heavy victories, the home field advantage eventually saw them lose the fight, with many Sons and locals rallying to the battle over time.

Bystanders outside the Sons fort claim the halfling and his wizardly consort were eventually let go, but nobody has seen either Zeulisad Vohlm or Consort Bhonn emerge yet...

Once again, the city is on edge, with wild talk of war from some and hoarse opposition to more blood from others. Only time will tell what the future holds in store for the beleagured denizens of the Nebedzzos ruins.

In the early morning of Alturiak 26, something unprecedented happened. As the sun rose over the Ymphian Archipelago, a swift cutter could be seen to be emerging from the thick shroud of Mist which prevents stellar navigation when travelling within. At first, it appeared to be following the worn path to Old Port- possibly to trade silks, or to offload a cargo of chattel fresh from the New World.

Instead, however, the vessel turned sharply away from the Old City and made directly for the Nebedzzos, and Ymph. As it approached, many of the oldest residents recognised the ship as The Bright Breeze, the vessel that bought Zyphaem Fassaud and his entourage to the mythallar two years past. Once berthed, a flurry of explorers, scholars and colonists departed for the shore, ready to breathe in the majesty of this Island. Her Captain told the small assembly of citizens gathered that this vessel is the first of many- that rumour of the crumbled city has spread far and wide into the Shining Sea. Ymph, it seems, has the hand of providence leaning upon it's shoulder once more.

A mildly concerning rumour, however, arrived along with the vessel. Several of the passangers tell of surviving elements of the Ixpadian Navy that stalk the waters beyond the Shroud, preying on trade bound for Old Port. No one is certain just who leads this fleet, although reports vary from the vengeful lover of the fallen Queen, to an Elven exile who had thought to make Ymph his fief when the Queen conquered Old Port.

Tangencially, some of the more savy touts wandering the narrows of the Docks have noticed the appearance of a curious, odd line of verse carved into stone here and there. Amongst those in the know, the scrawlings are largely believed to be  the work of one of the Dock's many poets of questionable quality:

Rumour spreads around the Dominion that a vessel carrying a cargo intended for the Duke's Household was set upon by unknown saboteurs yesterday evening, as it sailed to Ymph from the Old City. Whilst the Armada has been quick to throw any survivors with loose tongues into the dungeons, rumour has emerged from the voyage that the merchantman was set upon by bizarre figures that hold the likeness of a rat, but stand upon their hind legs in the manner of a man.

No speculation has been permitted regarding the lost cargo, by order of Duke Trenada himself.

Beggars and the infirm swarm the church of Ilmater, gangs are more aggressive than ever, and Rubies are rumored to be operating freely and openly right under the noses of the Sons of Sabuth. The Docks are becoming a dangerous place to be as its economy gradually suffers. The merchants are muttered against and muggings are more frequent than ever as coin seems to become more and more scarce and drugs more plentiful - some speculate that if not for the reputation of the Sons there would be murder in the streets. As conditions worsen, those who are able make surreptitious plans to move into the Duchy, and some of the more desperate speak of a truly free society somewhere within the vast and dangerous forests of Ymph.

A strange sighting at the gates this day: a huge minotaure claiming to be the herald of a larger force.

It is said the beast demanded that a huge and unlikely ransom be delivered deep into the Bogs, for fear of retaliation. Upon it's demand being mocked, the raging beast entered a fight with the reknown dwarven Thane, Durgrim, Blood of Argrim. The dwarf was promptly crushed by the beast, which in turn was promptly put down by the gathered crowd.

With the death of a supposedly messager, rumors of what's to come abound. Many think the crazed beast was alone and bluffing, but but if it was not, the coming days might bring some dire foes to the fragile and divided settlement.

In the aftermath of the Conclave's ultimatum, a forum was held in the Wanton Wastrel where the day's events spoken heatedly of. Many berate the Sons of Sabuth's Captain Sternov for killing a Ladderman who insulted them and the Conclave's manipulations by the standing treaty. The arguments continued for some time until Lazare called out who would stand for the Docks and lead the way for prosperity.

Istisha Priestess Cacey Mac Conmara, Ladderman Vernon Farwood, bravo Jacobi of Old Port, Son of Sabuth Derdric Psalms, Meric Vaska, Ladderman Mulciber Half-hands and Willy Tukei all answered the call, and so made their promise. The names and words spoken from each of them are slowly being spread among the destitute of the Docks, uncertain what these men and woman will mean for the future.

On this night, emissaries from a duergar mountain mine came to the Dominion, claiming to be willing to negociate the ownership of the trading outpost known as Fellhammer Hold, presently under control of the dwarven kin.

The negociation never took place. Lead by the dwarven Thane, Dugrim Blood of Argrim, a large and powerful war band dispatched the incoming emissaries in a short and bloody fight on the foothill path.

Soon after, the Thane was escorted to the Stygian Citadel, to answer for this action against peaceful, if untrustworthy traders. Dwarven kin praise the Thane for putting his people's interests before that of the Dominion, but it is likely the Duke may not see it that way. Gossipers now await both the Duke's reaction, and that of the duergar clan...

Chest 17th 1377 DR:

A ship bearing the flags of the Manchakan Enclave approach Ymph and dock within the Inner Piers. Coming from the vessel is a Manchakan Ambassador who greets the arrived gathering with words of promise, proclaiming his intent to stay within the Dominion for the coming time. He was escorted to the Stygian Citadel and remained there for the day. It is unclear what impact this visitor will bring the city.

Each day has brought it's load of danger and dreadful apparitions, but today was a day of joy and happiness. To honor the Thane's recovery of the Duke's trust, the dwarven people of the Fellhammer Hold invited all those who would come to a mighty dwarven feast.

Sharing moments over roast meat, dwarven ale, and fireworks, many guests came in peace to share a moment of tranquility.

Although the feast was disrupted by goblin-kin and other creatures taking advantage of an outdoor event, everyone came home with a full belly, and tales to tell.

Following an attack by gnolls, who abducted six docksmen, the Barrow Wights acknowledge the Crew of the Sea Mares Folly, led by Stormer Mac Conmara, accompanied by Dr. Lircan, Olaf, and a bare-chested wildman who declined to take pride in his heroics. All sorts of wild rumors spread about what kind of demon-worship, animal experimentation, and flesh-feasting was stopped, but an undeniable fact is that they carried the bodies of the stolen back from the gnoll camp.

Rumours spread of a solitary druid warning the city's defenders before the gates to the city, promising death and decay to all who would march upon the wilderness again. This message was met with a solemn promise from a Specialist of the Armada that more cats would perish before he was through, before the two parties went seperate ways. Citizens speak of the events with light dread, many fearing that a new Herald has risen from the Bogs.

A lone halfling was seen dragged up the Ziggurat late 11th of Tarsakh, accompanied by two members of the Armada and various citizens. At the place of execution, he was brought to halt as his executioners kept a careful distance to this servant of Rot, to some known as Kanjo. It's said that the halfling had earlier demanded the hand-over of the Sanctuary refugees still within the Colony or he would unleash plague and disease upon them, and he was brought low near the Sloped Road after having infected a mule at the Lumbermill. Scouts have confirmed the strange presence of black-veined and mutated creatures seen roaming within the wilderness at times, speculated to be the work of the Darkbringer's followers. As rain fell down, this rotbringer came to an end by Infantryman Haldricks, who at a safe distance away from the plague-ridden halfling sent a fiery arrow in Kanjo's back.

Kobolds !

Under cover of thick mist, tens of small rafts approached the dock’s outter reef, unloading hundreds of scaly yelping kobolds. Meeting them on the reef, mighty defenders blew and cut the creatures to pieces, while waves of them poured off the rafts. The docks people now speak in high praise of the Laddermen and of the Golden Alliance that defended them, while the Armada sat idle.

Less than an hour later though, a second battallion of the creatures emerged from the woods to attack the front gate, and was met by a Stygian-lead group of defenders, that pursued the creatures futher into the island till none where left standing.

Although the attack of the weak creatures was disorganized, and easily thwarted on both fronts, the presence of yuan-ti witches amongst them has people now wondering where and by whom the next blow will come from…

22nd of Tarsakh, 1377 Dale Reckoning

The Docks are growing dangerous for all seen in the presence of Dominion spokesmen. Accosted by Laddermen and the Son Halender for her presence alongside Banite Vrintak, a woman was quickly beat and dragged into the Laddermen Hall by the priestess of Istisha Cacey and held captive there in the hopes of negotiating for the release of Dominion slaves. She was eventually let out, battered and cut, alongside a priest of Lathander in a torn condition. Craftsmen and traders taking advantage of the animosity between the city districts shy away from going near the north of the Docks and the presence of the Laddermen in the fear that they too are to face the horrors within for their work, while other Dock inhabitants support the cruelty against Dominion tyrants.

The cheers of the Laddermen rose further in the next series of events, as two members of the Armada were captured in the act of assassinating Vergil Halender. Taken to the Sons headquarters and later released against slaves of the Dominion and the voiding of bounties upon Dock inhabitants, many applaud the victory made in the Docks just as the Dominion started to turn upon itself.

Dozens of bounty hunters, fortune seekers and adventurers of all affiliations left the Stygian Citadel determined to be the one to get the newest bounty, of the sum of seven thousand or another object of desire. The reasons and crimes committed by the man are widely speculated but the name remains all too clear to the shock of the Dominion.

Lockwood.

23rd of Tarsakh, 1377 Dale Reckoning

Atop the Ziggurat to a large attendance, Tobias Lockwood was executed for treason against the Dominion and Duke. It is said that the famous scholar Jawl Highwind was the one to bring the traitor to justice.

In the Dominion, citizens celebrate the elevation of Bartemis Vrintak to the peerage as he becomes Lord Vrintak.  The temple of the tyrant flourishes, and people flock to the new Lord for his favor.

The people of the Docks on the other hand hail the Laddermen as heroes, as it seems that not only did the Docksmen face a large expedition of Drow and live, but they also freed a half-dozen slaves from a life of harsh brutality.

In the early hours of the morning, two Stygian soldiers carried a large stone slab to the top of the Ziggurat, under the direction of Lord Vrintak.

After a speech was given, the Lord-Priest of the Dominion offered up a woman of the Conclave, an aberrant creature with skin like marble, as a willing sacrifice to the Black Hand.

As the woman's blood spread across the make-shift altar in rivulets, an enormous eye tyrant appeared and blessed the Dominion, proclaiming that Bane was pleased.

As the commoners quaked and fainted from fear of the creature, it granted some sort of boon to Lord Vrintak, before vanishing.

Many new faces filter into the Temple of Tyrants as a response amongst the common folk, but just as many, if not more give it a wide berth in disapproval over what is widely being proclaimed as 'human sacrifice' despite the woman's dubious origins.

A MURDER A NIGHT

In the docks districts, people are dying.

For the last three nights, three people have been murdered. The bodies of a merchant, a 'lady of the evening' and a gang member have been found in various darkened corners, their corpses half-eaten, the victims of vicious attacks.

Upon the latest corpse, a symbol of a jawless skull was carved, along with a stream of sunburst.

The usual rumors abound regarding the perpetrator or creature behind these murders, varying wildly, as things do.

All are in agreement though, that if the cause is not found soon, more bodies soon shall be...

Treason, is the word on every citizen of the Duchy's lips after a deadly duel at midnight held by Grimfael Corval and Alistair Harvix.  It is said that Alistair Harvix delivered some sort of demand to Pallid Mask, and it was refused.

In the skirmish that followed between forces of the Pallid Mask and the Duchy, Alistair Harvix fell from a gaping wound in his side, delivered by the famous Paladin's gleaming blade, only to be carried off the field by one of his retainers.

The Duke stormed off towards the Mausoleum shortly after, and it is said that while mercy was granted to the men of the Pallid Mask, that they have lost all favor with the Dominion's leadership.

What could this mean for the future of the Colony's Crusaders?

Those commonly frequenting the Dominion may note a large number of citizens being drafted into the militia at once. Weapons and armor are handed out to the newly tasked men who disappear into the Stygian Citadel for their tasks, emerging out a time afterwards tight-lipped and with determined expressions.

13th of Mirtul

Rumours spread quickly about the reclamation of the Inner Piers for the Dominion. Long being directly underneath the Docks and considered their territory, Infantryman Belalcazar is said to have lead the task force that finally annexed it back for the Duke; with the permission and approval of the Transcendant Conclave. It is said that the many transgressions, true or false, made by the Sons allowed such a bold move to happen. Citizenry within the Dominion cheer the victory and already more ships are said to head to Ymph from Old Port, bringing new prosperity and welcome trade...

No words have been made from the Sons. With the ease of access to the Inner Piers blocked and the occupation of the harbour, grim tides are likely upon the horizont as their fishing ships and other vessels face an uncertain time ahead...

Strange lights have been seen in the stormy skies: flickering, colorful, fast moving lights.

Be it weather effects, strange fireflies, magical lighting, or whatever imagination can conjure, they have had more than one colonist look up fearfully.

For now though, nothing more than random sightings above the Ziggurat and the Docks have been reported, and folks hope they will not occur again.

Kythorn 2:

Three days after the large brawl that broke out in the Docks' market square in a dispute over the ownership of Ladderman Hall (much to the enjoyment of many Docksmen, who relished the opportunity to chase a small contingent of the Pallid Mask out of the Docks and put a strange man claiming to be the "god of conquest" to a test of mettle), the district has once again been shaken, this time by a sortie of Grey Mist Raiders from the seas of the Archipelago.

It is said that the ferocious berserkers slew hapless innocents and set fires indiscriminately under cover of a thick bank of Mist that settled upon the Docks shortly before the raid, leading to the loss of several buildings in the westernmost portion of the district and badly damaging several others, including the home of Cyrus Doors' Freemen.

Their warleader demonstrated incredible skill in the square before the Sons' Headquarters itself, triumphing against nearly a dozen of the district's defenders and setting Caius Drayden, the renowned Champion of Targus, to flight before delivering an ultimatum: that the Docks is to deliver its orphans to the Raiders when they return seven days' hence, or else. What will be done when the time comes is unclear, but Docksmen cannot help but wonder how they can triumph against such men when but a handful fought a gathering of the district's stoutest defenders to a standstill.

While Stygians observing the fires from the summit of the Ziggurat laugh at the misfortune of the seditionists, rebels and traitors below, other citizens of the Dominion are less cheerful. Smoke on the horizon north across the Ymphian bay -- the direction of the Old Port -- has given rise to worries that the comital seat was likewise raided. The truth of the matter awaits with the arrival of the next merchantman from the Old Port, as soon as the Mist lifts.

Kythorn 3:

The latest in a series of expeditions into the ruins beneath Nebedzzos mounted by the Pallid Mask in search of their leader, the Forgotten Templar Grimfael Corval, have yielded fruit: but unfortunately, it is fruit most bitter. Having entered the previous evening, a ragged party of adventurers led by Initiate Jacob Reiner emerged from the depths around midday bearing the mutilated body and shattered armor of the Forgotten Templar, swiftly bringing it to the Mausoleum where, it is said, a funeral for the fallen crusader will be held on the morrow.

Corval's passing is mourned by many colonists of the Dominion who remember the Templar's heroic efforts to destroy the Nightriser threat forever, but respect for the deceased is far from universal: those colonists who have spent all their time on Ymph safeguarded by the Conclave's shield regard the man and his order coolly for its reputation of disrespecting Duke Trenada's rule. House Harvix, whose patriarch was recently striken in a duel with the Forgotten Templar and lay near death for many days, has issued no public comment; many that frequent the ziggurat, however, noticed a delegation from the House enter the Stygian Citadel and remain sequestered there for some time before leaving as quietly as they came.

Many also speak of Alistair Harvix's overtaking of a trial involving a halfling accused of murder and other various acts against The Duchy, although his body and state of health was far from what it was previous to his duel with The Forgotten Templar.

It is said that his temper was cut short and his mercy unseen as the halfling was sentenced to slavery after a mere 10 minutes, in a curious twist the hin begged for death and the Harvix Patriach was obliged to grant it.

As the prisioner was to be returned to the ziggurat for beheading, multiple breakout attempts were put down thanks to the efforts of The Stygian Armada and Duchy Loyalists. Alistair was said to even have a hand in this, magically holding one man dressed in purple with blond hair who spoke out against The Lords decision.

The tyranny of The Duchy swells, with many eyes and ears from the docks seeing these events and decrying them as outright evil.

Kythorn 4:

Word quickly spreads through the Dominion of an altercation at the funeral of Grimfael Corval between Lord Alistair Harvix and High Templar Brynach of the Disciples of the Pallid Mask. Kept separated by soldiers of the Stygian Armada, Harvix read from a decree written by Duke Trenada declaring that because of the Forgotten Templar's misconduct before his death as well as the failure of the Disciples to uphold their gods-given mission to destroy the Nightrisers forever, they would be stripped of their title to the Mausoleum headquarters. In the Disciples' place, House Harvix would take on the responsibilities of administering to the colony's deceased. Deigning not to resist, the Pallid Mask accepted the Duke's decision and agreed to remove their possessions within a day's time.

While a minority of citizens are outraged that such stalwart defenders of the colony would be treated in this fashion, more are ambivalent to the Pallid Mask but uneasy at the prospect of their bodies being interred under the supervision of what is commonly held to be a noble house of practicing necromancers. The Docks too are far from supportive of the Disciples; the Order of the Pallid Mask is spoken of nearly as often as the Stygians are, serving in the capacity as enforcers and thugs to support Duke Trenada's rule. Dark times indeed seem to be on the horizon for the Disciples of the Pallid Mask, who have made no public comment but keeps to their Mausoleum, busily packing before House Harvix's deadline arrives.

More light sightings. But these reports are more alarming. Tales of burning lights, of strange magic weaving occurences, of people falling under unearthly spells...

Yet no one seems to know where these things come from, or what it is they are doing in and out of the Colony. But this unknown alone is enough to breed fear into the hearts of many, for it does feel like the quiet before the storm...

Kythorn 7:

The circumstances surrounding the appearance of a small company of Brethren of the Numinous Order at the gates of Nebedzzos are as hazy as the Mist said to have surrounded them, but all too clear were the announcements made by the Stygian Armada later that evening -- Roderick de Velen, once the Lord Commander of the Numinous Order before he was striken by a curse in the chaos of Red Eleint, has revealed himself to be Agravain Blackhearth, heir to (long thought extinct) House Blackhearth of Old Port, and declared himself the lord of a domain independent from the Dominion of Duke Trenada.

In response, the Dominion has declared war on Lord Blackhearth and his followers, naming all members of the Numinous Order traitors to the lawful government of his Grace the Duke. The colonial militia has been called up to augment the ranks of the Duke's Stygian men-at-arms as the Conclave and Docks look on; the eyes of the island are upon this new shift of power, and alert to the changes it might bring.


The first trader out of the Old Port to anchor in the Inner Pier, meanwhile, has delivered similarly dire news. The comital seat has suffered greatly at the hands of the same Grey Mist Raiders that struck the Docks district some five days previous, with a sizable portion of the Merchant's District going up in flame before a detachment of guardsmen led by a phalanx of Rubies broke the raiders' ranks and drove them back into the misty waters they appeared from. What men and women hold loyalty to Count Senuspur speak darkly about the twin threats of an antagonistic militarized order and a fleet of bloodthirsty barbarian pirates, and make ominous predictions of the days to follow.[/I]

Kythorn 9, 1377

The Mist thickened terribly in the Docks today, portending the return of the Grey Mist Raiders.   Upon the arrival of their galleys, Father Michael paraded out six children, whom the Raiders immediately swept up into their arms.  While the Docksfolk were generally appalled by giving up their children as slaves to the Raiders, none of them acted given that the children all stated they were doing this out of their free will to ease the suffering of the Docks.

The Grey Mist Raiders wasted no time in casually dumping the children off a cliff, much to the shock of onlookers.  As the children were dashed against the rocks; the raiders only laughed at their misfortune while stating that the Mist must feed.  The First Mate of the galley and his crew battled his way to the beaches, strangely leaving all he bested alive and breathing before jumping onto his longboat and rowing off with his men, who jeered at the stunned people of the Docks.  

In the aftermath, a few angry onlookers attacked Father Michael for his role in this tragedy, despite the man's contrition, leading to only a few bruises and hurt egos in the fist fight that followed.

With the Mist continuing to shroud the Docks, there can be no pursuit by the Sons.  With any chance of vengeance denied to them, the hardy Docksfolk are all subdued, as they sullenly mourn the loss of the six children.

Residents of the Docks may note an increased tension between members of the Merchant Guild and Craftsmen, and members of the Fishmongers.

Kythorn 10:

The Old Port, crown jewel of the Shrouded Archipelago, burns. While little is known of the specifics on Ymph, the crews of several ships that have sought safety in the Dominion's harbor speak of riots that began in the Grand Arena and spread throughout the comital seat, swiftly driving upholders of the Count's law from the streets despite the best efforts of House Senuspur's Rubies and Ojo, the Count's court mage.

Given rumors that the Old Port's civil strife was caused, in part, by the reappearance of Lord Agravain Blackhearth, it was of little surprise when, early the next morning, the Lord Blackhearth held a speech in the courtyard of his ancestral castle. Lord Blackhearth is said to have reaffirmed the Order's intentions to hold and maintain the land that his house had been granted in the days before the War of Succession, and have sharply criticized both Count Senuspur and Duke Trenada for their sins in governing their realms. As the speech was concluded, a single bonfire was lit atop the battlements of the castle, as if to indicate a beacon of hope to the beleaguered Old Port across the bay.

Kythorn 12:

The Numinous Order were routed today, when a small convoy of militiamen and refugees fleeing Duke Trenada's rule were turned by the Stygian Armada, lead in the field by Infantryman Coronado. It is said that the plan to fall upon the few Knights and Militiamen was thrawted when a traitor delivered word of the attack to Castle Blackhearth. A large body of Order Militia lead by fresh Knights met the Armada in the Webbed Wood. The battle was short, and bloody. The Stygians emerged victorious, with more than thirty Ordersmen lying dead at their feet. Coronado and his men returned victorious to the Ziggurat.

Still, it is said that the vanguard of Lord Blackhearth's strength remains in-tact, and that the bloodiest engagements of the war are yet to come. Rumour of the butchery of women and children by the Stygians have been unable to be substantiated: shortly after the battle was ended, a thick unnatural mist descended upon the battlefield and appeared to swallow up the corpses of the fallen.

The cause of this Mist has been attributed variously to grave robbers working silently in the mists, to more outlandish tales of heretical practices from within the Order. Reports of a cowled man who was seen stalking the battlefield after the Armada withdrew and tending to the dead have been widely refuted as fiction.

The orcs, having attacked en masse for a few nights, slaughter a great many farmers, decimating the quiet peace and prosperity of the surrounding farmlands of the ziggurat; a stark reminder of the dangerous and unpredictable nature of Ymph.

The forests teem with remnants of a great orc host, though the main scourge appear to have retreated once more, perhaps in part due to the death of their leader.  Orcen politics being even more unpredictable than that of humanity ensures that determining their next attack is less a question of if, but when it will happen.

An ominous quiet has descended over the once prosperous Fahrel Farmlands

23rd of Kythorn

An announcement was held by Hyrsciator and Thayan Thrask Morv atop the Transcendant Conclave of the dissolution of the treaty. In this speech the Hyrsciator announced that the Conclave will revert back to how the truce was maintained earlier, now with the full experience of the treaty to assist them. This is met with varied response from the Dominion and the Docks, some fearing that this liberty may be taken advantage of and used for personal reasons. Others at last breathe more easier as the copies of the lengthy treaty gradually are removed from sight through all means possible.

Kythorn 21st.

While the details of the Order's battle with the Armada and the events that followed are still shrouded in mystery, rumors begin to circulate in the days following. It would appear that the siege began with both sides taking hostages from the opposition.  Famed Knight-Templar Jacques De Villiers was taken captive on a flanking sortie in the Tangled Woods, while Tetrarch Maria Sevar of the Armada was captured on an attempt to infiltrate Castle Blackhearth from the tunnels below.

The Duke offered the Order a chance for unconditional surrender, when it was not taken, the Militia advanced.  Near catastrophic losses were taken by the Loyalist Militia, as the brave men attempted to take the battlements of the castle upon siege ladders.  All of this was apparently a ruse, as a Stygian Specialist used the time to unbar the gates, then jam them.  Only at this point, did the Stygian Infantry led by Infantryman Belalcazar and Loyalist adventurers advance.

At this point, the Order used the Stygian's own Alchemist Fire barrels, used from a daring raid upon the Piers to blow up a section of the stone span leading to Castle Blackhearth, the only method by which the castle could be entetered by the Dominion soldiers.

While entrapped, it did not seem to phase the Stygians and adventurers who calmly engaged the Numinous Order in the Courtyard. While the men of the Order, whose defense was led by Knight-Templar Ulric the Penitent, Templar Iodmyr York, and Templar Gregor Ostali attempted to repel the invaders, eventually they too were felled and taken hostage.

At this point, a man of the Order paraded out Tetrach Sevar at swordpoint, and the Stygian advance was halted by the prospect of such an important hostage being executed.

Negotiations were had, but fell through until Lord Agravain Blackhearth and his men arrived, for their intended assault upon the Armada's rear during the siege.  Derisively referring to the man as 'Antoine' and dismissing his title, Lord Blackhearth was swift to offer this deadly insult to force the Duke's hand in a challenge of honor.

As the Mists thickened terribly about the battlefield, a masked man stepped onto the battlefield, the Grandmaster of the Numinous Order, who revealed he would be serving as Lord Blackhearth's champion.  Upon removing his mask, all were shocked upon seeing his face.  The man was revealed to be Grimfael Corval, former Forgotten Templar of the Pallid Mask, who had been thought slain by vampires beneath the city.

As the two traded blows in the duel to follow, Master Ruby Vjasa Sumuri arrived onto the battlefield, and demanded that the duel cease.

As Sumuri read the proclamation of his grace, Count Zarono Senuspur, all participants of the battle were stunned to learn that he had recognized Lord Blackhearth's claim, and had granted him the surrounding lands as his fief.  Not only that, but he was declared to be direct retainers of the Senuspur family.  A title which would put him directly at odds with the Duke on Ymph, given that he would not be forced to swear fealty to him.

The reason given, was that Lord Blackhearth is tasked with using his lands to feed the Old City, which had been plagued by food riots for over a tenday prior to the battle.

While there are many other minutia to the proclamation which will be finally brought to the political forefront in the days to follow, one thing is clear.

The Numinous Order has returned.

Kythorn 29:

While building fires are not unheard of in the Docks, today marked the first occasion that the home of a major gang in the district was destroyed by one. The Bozworks, a mysterious complex well-known for its (nebulous) connections to the district's drug trade, was engulfed in flames this last morning and collapsed under the weight of its roof before an impromptu bucket brigade put out the fire, taking a number of ramshackle shacks and shelters with it as it burned.

None of the Bozworks' inhabitants seem to have survived the tragedy, not even its reclusive gnomish owner, but the fire did not claim all of "The Boz's" men -- the corpse of one of the gnome's henchmen was found hacked apart on the steps of the Wanton Wastrel. While his body was quickly looted and forgotten, the event seems to indicate some measure of skullduggery from persons unknown.

In the meanwhile, the most desperately addicted men and women that call the Docks home have already begun to go into withdrawal in this sudden shortage of drugs, and Docksmen say that deaths are sure to follow if an alternative means of supply is not found.

Kythorn 30th,

Riots break out between the combined forces of the Craftsmen Guild and the Merchant Guild against the Lazare fisheries. After an ill-fated attempt on Johnny Lazare's life within the Wanton Wastrel, the streets were filled with the Merchant Guild Enforcers in an attempt to flush him out. Surprisingly, a good number of Docksmen aligned against the union and beat down the enforcers alongside Lazare's cutthroats, striking a terrible blow to the two other major gangs of the Docks.

Flamerule 9

The Ziggurat is rocked with the sound of a large explosion as Son of Sabuth Walter Hodgeton and a number of unknown assailants detonated explosives in the Shrouded Syndicate Library. Several scribes are believed to have perished; however it's rumored that the scum labored for hours under cover of invisibility, taking hostage those who entered the library, to move all the books to an unknown location.

Generous bounties are offered by both the Stygians and surviving members of the library (including Aeliolia El`Soliu un`Ker`Eil) in exchange for bringing Hodgeton and his unknown aids to justice, as well as finding and recovering the books, wherever they may be...

Flamerule 14

The Goblin Squatter's Den was devastated by a peculiar tsunami of tea, of unknown origin. The tsunami caused considerable damage until it flowed into the drainage system and gobsquat lake.

 It's believed most of the goblins survived, but that they have closed off access to their den due to widespread casualties.

Flamerule 15

The Webbed Wood seems to the be location of strange happenings, the last few nights. Always near the darkest point of the night, loud bursts of lightning can be heard and to the strong eye, wisps of smoke. And always, a few faint cries of battle.

Whatever is going on, no trace of it is to be found during the day.

Flamerule 17th : Year 155 : 1377 DR

As the dust settles on the bloody cobblestones of the Alleyways between the dank Gobsquat and the patrolled streets of the Ziggurat, rumors concerning a gigantic battle there spread like wildfire through the ruinous city. According to most rumors, the increasingly infamous "Crusader Shershall" and his nefarious companion "Oswald" engaged a large number of citizen-adventurers, as well as a Caliphar, in a violent struggle in the ruins, a running battle involving steel and sorcery of alarming power, resulting in the eventual defeat of the citizens and the execution of well-known local elven warrior Vallon Ecthelion at the hands of the outlaws.

While the exact details of the battle differ according to the locale they're spoken in, with most in the Dominion whispering fearfully of the bandits or decrying them as scum, and most in the Docks lauding them as heroes, one thing is certain; more violence is likely to follow in the following days, vengeance on the minds of some and more swag and greater glory on the minds of others...

Flamerule 23rd, 1377 DR

Yesterday night was one the Docks would not soon forget. At the onset of the night a call resonated through the Mythallar by the Armada, urging civilians to evacuate the streets of the northern district. In response to the destruction of the Dominion library several days ago, the Dominion under the heavy enchantments of the Conclave struck the Docks in force, breaking through the resistance put up to meet them. The battle became a rout, the rout became a defeat as the attackers tore their way to the Sons headquarters under the leadership of Consort Tendaji, Specialist Gavril and Bishop Coolidge.

With an immediate hold of the district acquired and the defenders nowhere in sight, Veteran Randolph Mengsk brought all the remaining Stygians with him and entered the Sons holdout, while Specialist Gavril and the other Dominion Loyalists held the streets against a last desperate strike by the Sons. Just as battle turned once more against the Sabuthans, an explosion rocked the Sons headquarters, throwing mortar, stone and rubble all around the vicinity; marking the end of the skirmish.

The loyalists left the district soon afterwards as the Docks residents crawled away from their hideouts to witness the desecration. With no signs of the Son leadership nor the men of the Armada entering the building, little but speculations remain to explain what happened within the ruins.

Despite the appearance of several Sons since the assault, the destruction of their headquarters have left its mark upon the Docks. Where the white and blue were once prominently displayed throughout the district now sits an empty seat of power. Civilians keep to the shadowy corners and out of sight as the Sons, Fishmongers, Longshoremen, Merchant's Guild, Crafter's Guild and Dominion all seek to claim a position on the top.

The dry and thirsty streets wait with anticipation for the gratification to come.

Although of no great concern to most wealthy adventurers or skilled mercenaries, for the common people who dwell within the Dominion's Ziggurat warrens or the great throngs who live in squalor along the shore - the price of food is rising, sharply, and it's growing much more difficult to stay properly fed.

Flamerule 25th, Year 1377

Morale is decreasing among the destitute of the Docks. The increased presence of the Mist Raiders near the shore has taken its toll, as raids come quick and bloody with the Docks rarely able to fend off the invaders. Orphans have been dragged to their longboats, never to emerge again on Ymph.

Some recent rumors and events:

QuoteThose who dwell within the Docks would have heard a strange tale being passed from lip to lip. A ship was coming back from Old Port, taking on a strange and silent little girl traveling on her own. Apparently the girl went into the ship's cabin on her own, and then sailors report hearing horrible sounds of foul magic within. When they entered, they found no girl, but rather a bizarre kobold with some kind of undead wings cowering before a dreadful animated skull. Panicked and looking for the girl, the sailors attacked, but both appear to have somehow escaped off of the ship.

QuoteThe Dominion is abuzz with word about the speech (http://www.escapefromunderdark.com/forums/showthread.php?p=209545#post209545) from the Duke. Food prices continue to rise, and according to gossip a group of mad docksmen attempted to burn down a ship belonging to the Manchakan Enclave while it was in the process of having its grain unloaded. Thankfully the effort mostly failed, and there is food - for now.

It is rumored that the Duke along with several trusted guards and those prominent citizens who contributed the most to the food relief fund departed Ymph for a time, on a mission unknown. Master Tau was said to have been carrying a great pack that jingled with the sound of a huge sum of gold.

A smaller group returned the next day, with several missing, the Duke's face tight and concerned. Master Tau's pack seemed empty...

As yet, it is unknown what exactly transpired.

Food prices are going up.

Groups of militiamen and other Dominion employees are seen turning in their uniforms, after it is revealed that the Duchy is completely broke and even heavily indebted to Calishite money-lenders from Old Port.

It's even rumored that the Duke, known for his risk-taking and gambler's nature, collected a huge sum from recent levied taxes and donations from adventurers, and descended into the Underdark in order to wager it all on the toss of a roulette wheel in an elite drow casino in Traensyr.

It did not seem to go well....

Hunters and adventurers have begun to place foraged food into several baskets within the Ziggurat for the use of the hungry, but with the food barges no longer coming regularly from Old Port many of the citizens of the Dominion no longer have a stable source of sustenance.

It is whispered that the worst is yet to come.

Eleint 4:

A number of slaves, evidently sold by the drow of House Jultar in the Old Port, trickle back to the Dominion on a series of ships. Among them, dressed only in rags, was the Lord Meriwether Dalton, who is said to have spent time as a prisoner of the drow in the depths of the world below. The presence of the new Lord is a cause for celebration for few, however -- in these hard times, it is only another mouth to feed.

Eleint 4th, 1377

On this rather busy day, there was more than just a slave auction held in the Great Arena out in Old Port. Closer to home, back in the Colony, it was more eventful, with ancient Netherese magic strongly at work atop the Ziggurat during the night, and this time bringing in not one unfortunate soul, but a band of Dwarven miners led by a wizened Dwarven Sage with a long white-beard and his trusted companion, a portly Dwarven warrior armed with a fierce double-axe. It is said that a plain looking Dwarven Woman clad in a simple brown dress was seen appearing several hours later as well.

Meanwhile, on the very same night, there was a riot in the streets. A small group of disgruntled Colonists led by three Militiaman made their way to the Stygian Citadel and began to cause chaos, the Militiaman turned in their equipment, abandoned their duties and along with the rioters they shouted out against the Armada and Duke Antoine Trenada, insulting him for gambling away the funds of the Dominion and as they began to hurl rotten fruit in anger, Infantrymen hurried out to quell the rioting and this resulted in a small violent clash, but as the former Militiamen were wounded by Stygian blades, they fled and soon after, the rioters dispersed.

Fortunately, there was no death over this chaotic clash, but it is a sure sign of the dreadful and deteriorating situation facing the Dominion in these trying times. Who knows what else may occur in the days to come and how the Duke shall respond to the crisis.

Eleint 5th, 1377

A band of Dwarven miners led by the white-bearded Dwarven Sage, Thronûr Longbeard was seen leaving the gates this evening and a single hour later, an adventuring party traveled out to join their expedition into the depths of the Misty Mountains. Their fate is yet known, but to the worried, starving people of the Dominion, it is of no concern to them.

Back in the Colony however... rumors spread like wildfire about an explosion in the Citadel, word is that the fallen and disgraced ex-Lord, Meriwether Dalton had traveled there in a bid to meet His Grace, Duke Antoine Trenada, but he was caught wearing an explosive vest by Infantryman Batturan, and due to the Infantryman's swift action and heroic sacrifice, the traitorous Patrician failed to kill anyone else with his suicidal act. It is said though that the Duke's trusted aide, Boris Kuulenov was grievously injured and has been disfigured due to the incident.

Eleint 7th, 1377 DR

Rumours are abreast of the event that took place at the Inner Piers. Docksmen give cheerful and loud praise of the efforts of one Thomas Hall, who alongside other reckless companions placed it upon themselves to free the Inner Piers from the grasp of the Dominion. While but a few returned out of the dozen that struck, the Dominion was forced to relinquish its hold and the Inner Piers now sprawl with renewed activity. It is said that the few vessels that were docked were mercilessly raided for the sparse supplies kept in the holds, spread around the Docks in shameless celebration of the newest victory. Among the quaffs of beverages, loud praises were given those who were lost during the attack: Thomas Hall, Eveningstar Lorelay, Mert Gein, Breston, Ranaldo Bhaltair, Bruno Cairn-Burn, Bruce Almshaven and Yin-Mi Heishu.

Within the Dominion, an uproar has gone up about the savage murder of several militiamen that stood guard at the Inner Pier. A survivor, posted near the northern dock of the Piers, tearfully elaborated upon the event within the Kingsman in detail. Apparently the attack came out of nowhere, the aggressors brimming with arcane enchantments as they mercilessly struck the militia guarding the border down. They proceeded to cut down all perceived loyalists and sent the veteran of the Armada running of the ferocity of the ambush. While the veteran eventually was able to turn away the attackers, the casualties were too grave for the Dominion to retain their presence there.

With the Dominion lines and defenses retracted to cover the Main Gates and the Ziggurat, the ruins are less defended than ever, and with famine wrecking the Dominion populace, things have turned for the worse.

1st of Marpenoth, 1377 DR

The Dominion rejoices in two consecutive victories. At the end of Eleint, emissaries acting on behalf of House Durjure set sail for a distant island and returned with a ship full of grain and meat received from a remote village. The doors of the noble house opened to hungry citizens eager to get a share of the newfound treasure, praising the efforts of the few who made the deal a reality.

Another victory was had under the lead of the Stygian Armada, relieving the Inner Pier from the hands of Docksmen and Grey Commander Anatoli. It was said they met little initial resistance and defeated the honourable mercenary who made a futile effort to prevent their victory. Not long after the Pier was seized the cultists of slime attacked the warband. In a volatile skirmish the Pier was almost relinquished from loyalist hands again but the defenders stood firm and achieved their double victory. Naming the merchant Angelo de la Sol as harbourmaster of the Pier, they left battle behind and returned to the Dominion.

Yet the victories have their price. Along with the renewed food stores fourty or so villagers arrived in the Dominion, telling drear tales of the village and mayor they left behind and his consort with a horrid creature to keep them safe. At odds and with a deep suspicion of the leaders in the Dominion, they have separated themselves from the other citizens and there is a tense feeling in the air. While the acquired food stores have proven a sparse relief in the famine, the more hungry mouths pose increased difficulty ahead. The renewed claim over the Inner Pier is fickle as no militia or infantry have been sent to affirm the claim with security. Docksmen have once again moved into the Pier to live away from the streets and they watch their fallen friends, murdered in cold blood during cries of surrender, with revulsion.

Colonials returning from the ruins at night have begun to report the presence of strange, furry monstrosities who slink in the darkness, causing mischief in packs and disturbing the silence with their loud and unintelligible cries (which has caused some to begin to call them by the name "Gibberlings"). It seems that the infestation has appeared practically overnight. A day or two ago, nobody had even heard of the irksome creatures, and now it is rumored that they are nesting in unmanageable numbers beneath a tower in the Smash. If the population isn't controlled regularly, then they may begin to represent a genuine hazard as they spill en masse into the borders of civilization.

// In the EFUA setting, Gibberlings will not have existed in other parts of the world and indeed, it can be assumed that they are a novel experience for everyone.

4th of Marpenoth

A large force of lizardfolk was met head-on within the Drainage Pipes by courageous, if reckless, adventurers and defenders. It is said that the group was supported by other lizardfolk coming from the wilderness and into the ruins beneath Nebedzzos, before the majority ascended in force. Strangely enough nightrisers were reported to have fought the lizardfolk within the drainage pipes, battling them all the way from the depths.

The rumours speak nothing of the reasons for this event.

A large horde of trolls, shambling monsters and bog creatures marched upon the city of Nebedzzos this eve. They were led by a mysterious pale skinned woman of perfect complexion wielding a crimson staff covered with maggots.

Warned of their coming by one of their scouts, the loyalists of the city fortified the gates and entered brief negociations with the would-be invaders before the battle broke off.

Fighting finally errupted as trolls threw their giant boulders upon the courtyard, creating a rain of stone and magical spells. Rampaging war trolls were seen swinging rotten trees at the adventures and it is rumoured that over hundreds of these creatures were slain by the loyalists forces led by Saircrost, Farsun and Monteblanc. Of particular note, are rumours of the bravery and prowess of a robed monk, Gethin, Consort Rhodes, and a man in shining armor going by the name of Legenis.

Further praises are given to a mysterious man and a sturdy dwarf who fought alone on the other side of the bridge to take down the terrible witches of the Covenant, before ultimately collapsing to the onslaught...

As trolls are being carved off the city's fortification, many wonder what was the reason of the attack and what the city is to do against this threat in order to stop it once and for all.

Again, in the middle night, screams erupted from the temple district as commoners fled the eastern ruins where more vile trolls and shambling mounds of rotting flesh had crawled up from the water. It appeared to be nothing but a diversion as the attack did minimal damage, and during this time a smaller group of cultists, a man with tendrils sprouting from his hands, a woman taking the shape of a large Giant Spider and followed by many lesser spiders as well as a pale skinned woman similar to the one who had held a negociation at the gates, entered the city slaying all Militia and stopping every adventurers who would dare stand in their way.

Despite the many who reinforced the guards and tried to stop them, they managed to enter the city and kidnap the children as well as their caretakers carrying them outside the city as confusion reigned. It was the sacrifice of one of their cultists, a mage of considerable power, who unleashed devasting magical energy upon their pursuers to slow them down who guaranteed their escape. The cultist in question is rumoured to have been slain in his cell and simply rotting away into a grotesque skeleton instantly following his death...

Tribal screams of celebration could be heard coming from the bogs as the servants of the Darkbringer fashioned whatever dark ritual they were planning. A brave, but foolish band of adventurer tried to enter the lands in order to save the children from their gruesome fate... To their rescue, Elite guards of the Numinous Order , alongside a black helmed figure rumoured to be their leader, came out from the forest to aid in their retreat against the overpowering swarm of the Darkbringer's minions. It wasn't without loss as many nearly left their lives behind in the dreaded swamps...

As a new day dawns, the Numinous Order vowed to erase the taint of the Rot God from these lands.

The horn of war sounded back from Blackhearth and the patrols of the Numinous Order were recalled to lead one of the biggest battalion of Adventurers, Stygian soldiers and Templars to ever have walked upon the soil of the Ymphian Bogs.

Led by the zealous Jacques De Villiers, the battalion march upon the swamp to meet into the fields of war an horde of the gathered tribes of trolls, lizardmen and vile minions of the Jawed God larger than anyone could have imagined. The battle was long and hard, but the courageous heroes were victorious this day as they even put down the monstrous rotting remains of a large Undead Dragon, the acting Champion of the forces of Darkbringer.

The group managed to reach the inner sanctum, where the supposed ritual of the rotting hag was taking place. Little is known about what truly went on so far... but rumours go far and wide saying that the cult was destroyed entirely on one hand, and the other saying that this destruction might have left room for an even greater evil to step in....

20th of Marpenoth, 1377DR

Victorious adventurers return with news that one of the nesting wyverns at Wyldwater and one juvenile wyvern were slain during the day. Rumours of these beasts had come in earlier from rangers trekking the mountainside and the demise of these terrible creatures spread a relief in otherwise grim days. It is said that the largest wyvern was buried in honour of the hunt.

While searching the Smash for sites of archeological interest, a team of explorers lead by Graham Greyfell unleashed -by mistake, or willingly - a huge Iron Golem into the Ruins.

Although the construct was swarmed by defenders up in arms and targetted by the mightiest spells, nothing seem to bring the golem down, and only a few dents were made unto it's metal body.

It was finally cunning that lead to it's fall into the deep waters of the Smash, so deep that no one has dared swim to make sure it has really been disabled.
Rumors fly as to whether simple immersion is enough to deactivate such things.

Time will tell quickly enough...

Today a thick mist rose on the burned farmland battlefields, and moments later, a host of undead orc tore it's way out of the eerie battlefield's dark earth.

Defenders stood their grounds, fighting at 10 versus 1, and many fell while never giving up an inch. At last no more undead rose from the ghastly field, and the Mist dissappeared.

Some say it was a vision of what is to come. Others that the Dead answered the challenge from barbaric warriors on the field. Some hope it will not happen again...

It is on the lips of all. On Marpenoth 22 of the 1377 before Dale Reckoning, the Stygian Armada with alongside a battalion of the most fearsome that the Colony had to offer walked upon the starwoods with the intention to return food and slaves for its starving population.

The natives, alongside their allies, proved to be too much for the invaders. It was only after a grueling battle where many stargazers and loyalists perished that the forest became silent, only filled with the noise of crows picking apart at the dead and the sound of whimpering widows.

The Stygian menace had been repelled, but at a cost. A cost that the stargazers wished the Duchy to pay in exchange for the bodies of its dead and the little pride that it had left. Tretarch Sevar negociated with the Elder of the Tiger tribe, Laoskius, in an heated debate that lasted a good while. The decided terms were as followed:

 - The Stygian Armada will return the captured slaves of the star people within their land, and offer to use their influence to help buy those still stuck in Old Port.

 - The loyalists and their warriors are never to walk upon the Starwoods nor any other sacred grounds of the star people.

 - The loyalists and their warrior will never lift a weapon against the people of the star for reasons of greed ever again.

 - The loyalists and their people will not seek reprisal against the allies of the star people for the aid they have given in winning this battle.

Battered, the group returned to the Duchy to announce the news of their defeat and the subsequent consequences. A bruised Saircrost could be seen heading inside to speak with Lord Stenton, one of the leading figures of the slave trade on Ymph. He was seen by commoners leaving in haste  as the Lord threw a bottle of wine and a goblet at him in a fit of rage...

A Freighter carrying a handful of prized gladiators arrived at the Colony during the night. Led by Gustavo, the gladiators were sold at an event held in the Warden's district where many patricians, nobles and commoners attended. Lord Stenton was seen purchasing the majority of the gladiators, while Veteran Kedrian of the Armada purchased a few and Qadima of the Conclave did so as well.

Unfortunately, a wild elf carrying a spear seemed too feral for the group and broke off running away north into the docks. Two guards were sent afterward but they never returned...

The rest of the event went without any more trouble. Lord Stenton then invited the crowd to join his nephew, Caspar Stenton, inside the Arena where a demonstration of the House Stenton Arena was shown. Many people were left in awe at the cruelty of the games that were displayed, and an opening fight was held where a brutal, fat gladiator by the name of Krash manage to bring down a similarly obese dwarf going by the name of Levoric, unfortunately, the dwarf bled out before the crowd were able to vote for mercy or not.

With the opening match ended, Caspar led the visitors out and promised that many more glorious battles between gladiators will be held, here, in the future...

Discontent. Rumors. Angry muttering...

"They are spending THOUSANDS of gold on blurs and speed brews, and NOTHING for our food. The Duke should confiscate all their gold. Cursed adventurers".

"2500 coins today. For an armor. Not so much as a tip. And he kicked the orphan begging for 1 tiny bit of a coin. Cursed adventurers".

"One of them asked my husband for a mirror for a guildhall. And he didn't want it to cost most than 25 coins. 25. For an everlasting mirror, carved with the symbols of hs faith. If Ymph didn't starve us to death, they would. Cursed adventurers."

Something is brewing...

The Floating Enclave of the Transcendent Conclave shuddered on its perch in the sky, and enormous slimy tentacles blossomed out, dangling from every hole. A massive, squid-like dome "eye" peered down upon the frightened populace with some indiscernible intelligence.

The aberrant sat there serenely for the span of several hours, before suddenly it drifted to the north and crashed into the sea. The Floating Enclave arose again soon after, still as majestic as ever but now covered in a fine dusting of sand and sticky mucus.

What was the creature that commandeered the Enclave? Where did it come from? To the casual observer, it seems as if the monstrosity still lurks somewhere under the sea - perhaps to emerge again some day to ply some sinister agenda.

A great pyre was set up in the docks by the Sons of Sabuth dedicated to burning a winged woman who had been proclaimed a heretic by the famous preacher of Ilmater there.

As Father Michael lit the flames, and the sons dispersed, not wishing to watch a person suffer as it was cleansed by fire, rumor has it darkness engulfed the flames, and moments later she disappeared.

A thing appeared out of the darkness, the rumors vary as to what it was, and some say it split into many parts as it fought a crowd including Ordermen and Free men of the Docks, but it escaped.

The charred remains of the pyre are gone now, but a calm around the area belies a palpable tension.

Yestereve, a vessel bearing the personal style of Lord Agravain Blackhearth departed from the Old City and moored a mile off Nebedzzos. Some hours later, Lord Agravain was seen slowly making his way across the waters to the clipper, and departed for Old Port with a small party anon. The vessel was gone for the evening, and returned in the dawning light of the morning bearing a cargo of men; bearded, emaciated looking men with arms reddened with sores and marked with the tattoo of a prisoner condemned of treason.

The men departed shortly after, and the Ordersmen continued further west to parts unknown. The crowd appear to largely be veterans of a political conflict that preceeded the ascension of the Count; partisans for the defunct  Council of Four who have been imprisoned since the Rubies imposed the rule of their Master upon Old Port. They say that Lord Agravain freed them at the cost of his own coinpurse, and instructed them to take up the worship of the Three and reaffirm their oaths at Castle Blackhearth if they trusted in the leadership and judgement of his House.

While many of the freed have contended themselves to citizenry under Trenada's rule, a growing number of converts have begun departing the City to swear themselves to Blackhearth and his Numinous Order, on account of his stipend of grain, fame gained during Red Eleint or remembering old oaths sworn to his family. However, the Order's numbers remain precariously few, having suffered heavy casualties both in Blackhearth's feudal struggle with Trenada and the bloody assault upon the Heart of Rot.

Whether Lord Agravain's attempt to revitalise the numbers of his ailing Order will succeed remains to be seen.  

Rumors spread of a curious performance held atop the Ziggurat by the conjuring-pupeteer "Marionette." The veiled halfling has become increasingly well known due to her wondrous abilities to control a wide variety of illusory-puppets. In her most recent and widely attended performance, in which great quantities of food were freely given, many say that the production was nothing more than an elaborate accusation of murder of a recently inducted Caliphar of the Transcendent Conclave.

Soon enough, however, gossip about the event fades as most common folk return to their mundanely desperate days of hardship and uncertainty.

Rumor speaks of an expedition led by Iodemus Anatoli to go forth and slay the ancient and decrepit drake Shevorth of the Corals.

In the middle of the night during the course of a long storm, it is said that the wyrm itself winged back to Ymph to drop the sole and solitary surviving member of the group, so that the story of its victory could be told.

Uktar 26:

In the Tangled Wood, laborers in the employ of the Numinous Order resume work at clearing trees, this time in the vicinity of the Exile's Camp. Instead of girdling the trees and using controlled fires to clear farmland, however, the lumberjacks are setting aside the timber in orderly rows, presumably for a specific purpose.

Just what that purpose might be is kept inside the Order's ranks, but the denizens of the Exile's Camp think none too highly of it. The weary souls who braved the wilderness to escape the politics of Nebezzdos bemoan what seems to be the beginning of another colony, right in their midst, but suffer in quiet. The grim men clad in black, who visit the place often in order to attend to the fields they have sown nearby, are given nothing more harmful than hostile glares and muttered curses ... at least for now.

Rumors spread of the defeat of the ancient wyrm Shevorth of the Corals, supposedly accomplished at great cost of life by a group of wildsmen and sellswords from Ymph.

Much has changed in the Exile's Camp, the men of the Numinous Order have literally taken over and an imposing Calishite Templar has been posted there to watch over the camp. Its name has been changed too, it is now called Vortgyn's Rest.

In the meantime, several of the Wildfolk who once lived in the camp were seen along with their fierce Guardian leaving for the Mountains, for Gaeseric's Camp. No doubt to escape whatever the Order has planned for their former home. The majority of these inhabitants and the elders who watch over the World Tree choose however to remain.

A small number of Colonists were seen traveling to Vortgyn's Rest as well, migrating from the Colony in hopes of finding a better life. Back in the Dominion though, many of those loyal to Duke Trenada speaks of their actions harshly, going as far as calling them traitors. But such an opinion is hardly shared by the commoners who yet suffer due to the food crisis.

Since the Feast of the Moon that took place between the thirtieth of Uktar and the first of Nightal.. the Ymphian Wilderness have grown more treacherous. It is said that a fearsome and monstrous Werewolf has been roaming the lands and attacking certain bands of adventurers.

Its work can be seen all about the lands, especially within the Tangled Woods, the Foothills, Wyldwater and even Elfwood. Trails of dried blood and the carcasses of dead animals that were feasted on is to be found by all who travels the wilds. Even the savage Wild Orcs appear to be its prey, although they hunt it as well. During the night, fierce howls made by a wolf-like creature are heard by the people in the Colony, the Wilderness and Vortgyn's Rest.

Rumors of dwarven expeditions to the mountains spread slowly through the dominion. It is said dwarves and their hired hands are moving equipement to the Undermount, but to what end remains mostly unknown.

Most commoners hardly care for these rumors. Others hope the dwarves will move and never be heard of again. Some fear the loss of stout defenders of the colony. Most believe the dwarves to be beginning mining the mountain ore for trade.

Life in the Docks has taken a turn for the worse. In the wake of the Sons' unperceived presence upon the streets, the major gangs have begun making moves towards filling the hole left behind. A noticeable tension has risen within the Longshoremen, the polar opposites of Jim Dowd and Seamus Tane becoming increasingly more evident as its members take - for the first time in long - obvious sides. Bereft with rumours of Dowd's incapacity as a leader and an embarrassing confrontation with Tane, blood has been drawn in a conflict quickly intensifying.

Henri Princely, despised throughout the Docks, have recently began making public displays in less than savoury manners. He has proclaimed that the Merchant Guild is dying while underneath the rule of Hortense Higgins, not too subtly indicating that a change of leadership may not only be desirable but on the way. Higgins has so far made no comments towards this obvious ploy but has been known to seek merchants of the Docks for a quiet discussion. Darker rumours by far has begun circulating, most coming from -

Johnny Lazare, ruler of the Fishmongers, who has begun calling upon his most prominent killers for protection. The tension between the Merchant's Guild and the Fishmongers is peaking after months of solitary events where they were at each other's throat. Many speculate that after Higgins and the foul-mouthed Drogus Munt's attempt on his life, Lazare is finally preparing to repay the favour in full. Captain Harrison of the Smokin' Swordfish has been seen in his company and known to have done a specific task that the two have been strangely quiet about.

As more and more are drawn into this smouldering situation, bared steel and threatening promises have become more than a daily occurrence in a Docks that seem closer and closer towards collapsing upon itself in violence and strife.

As the sun set upon the horizon last eve, fishermen returned from their boats to sell their catch, bringing with them word of the Mists clinging more heavily to the water's surface than was usual. Soon enough the eldritch fog lapped at the shores of the Docks, gang leaders and local elders taking it for an omen, barricading themselves inside or melting away into the ruins.

Soon enough, their fears were answered. The Mists shrouded the streets of the hovel, bloodcurdling screams heralding the arrival of grey-clad Mist Raiders, terror in their wake. While the defenders were embattled in the center of the district, more raiders stalked the alleyways enacting grisly displays of cruelty upon whomever was misfortunate enough to cross their path, the young and the very old especially.

As quick as they came they were simply gone, beating a fighting retreat to their boats. They leave a few score dead in their wake, though rumour has it that a few brave souls ventured out to one of the raider vessels to enact a vengeance of their own...

... yet the perils of the city of Nebedzzos did not stop there. In hindsight a few recall seeing a hooded figure walking amongst the streets of the Docks seeking help for some nefarious purpose. Who now knows what assistance she got while the turmoil of the Docks raged but it is clear she achieved her intentions.

Mere hours after the raid and before the break of dawn, the city again cried out in terror as lizardfolk assassins started their macabre work upon the citizenry of the Dominion. Frantically coming to the defense against the unseen invaders, reputed citizenry such as Samuel Blake and Adrian Mendazona accompanied by other brave individuals stood firm against the onslaught and drove the invaders back wherever they appeared.

The last battles were had in the bloodied streets of the Docks as the invaders descended upon the streets in number, in close pursuit by the valiant defenders of the city. A final stand was had in the market plaza, where the hooded Yuan-Ti finally reappeared alongside a dozen lizardfolk warriors. Little is known of the exchange of words had or their meaning before battle erupted, yet it is rumoured the Mist was mentioned before the end.

As more bodies pile up in pyres or are hidden away in dusty graves, dawn greets an archipelago increasingly more wrapped in the Mist's embrace.

Last duskfall saw cloudless skies and a pale full moon, bathing the Colony in its cold glow. The night was bitter cold, Mists lapping at the Docks' shores giving rise to worries of another raid, many locking themselves within their homes.

Their worries were unfounded, though the gossip amongst Colony militiamen certainly was not; an ill portent they called the cloudless sky, and it seems they were right. Not an hour after darkness fell, an orcen warband assailed the gates only to be turned back by a party of adventurers and militia standing in defence...

Their triumph was short-lived, however, as the warband returned with tenfold strength, beastmasters holding great slavering lizards achain by their side. The defenders were routed by the sheer ferocity of the assault, many a man falling dead or gravely wounded, the field littered with corpse both man and beast, orc and human.

Orcen control of the gates was not brooked for long by the powers that be, however. Soon enough, a squad of Stygian soldiers marched for the gates, jaws grim set and steel in hand. Though they dismissed talk of a renewed orcen offensive in the vein of Red Eleint as premature, there was clear concern evident in their manner after being told of enormous orcen champions screaming of the "Spirit's wrath". Rushing forth into the breach with what defenders still lived at their backs, they routed the warband wholly, driving them off into the wilds.

Shortly after, a group of Specialists supported by a pair of Infantry were seen heading off into the forests. Rumour has it they were spotted several hours later marching home, wounded, bloodied and battered but their heads held high despite carrying with them the lifeless form of a fallen comrade. A rag-tag group of adventurers led by an elf of the Militia and a Templar of the Order followed in their wake, said to have been carrying the corpse of an enormous orc believed to be a warlord. They murmured amongst themselves of a champion grafted with undead flesh, of a curious wizard who fled the scene and of eldritch magicks raising corpses in support of the orcs.

Whatever the case, the Colony takes some amount of satisfaction - for now - in knowing that at least one of the myriad warbands roaming Isle Ymph has been made extinct, though it is scarcely enough to distract most from the rumbling pains of hunger in their guts.

Nightal 27th, 1377 DR

Every day in increasing frequency farmers, guards and other workers can be seen moving to the burned farmlands to salvage what they may. Guarded by soldiers from House Stenton and overseen by Provost of the Fields Karrin Connell, work has begun to see the farms rebuilt. Although many remain sceptical to the success of this pursuit, citizens allow themselves to hope for the best in an increasingly darker time.

Recent events in the Docks have set fire in the eyes of many. In broad daylight the leader of the Freemen, Cyrus Doors, was abducted from the streets. In a desperate search for the missing halfling, a group made their way throughout the Docks asking for his whereabouts. The wake of this group has led to many a hushed conversation among patrons of the Wanton Wastrel. Some say that the group spoke with both Lazare of the Fishermen and the Sons of Sabuth about slavers in the Docks, repeatedly mentioning that the one responsible was a 'she' and a powerful figure upon the streets.

Cyrus Doors eventually returned, ragged and beaten but with a passionate call for the Docks. Claiming that his capturer was a Stygian Specialist and the time of oppression from the Duke's tyrants was at an end, he was seen approaching the Longshoremen hall determinately. Shortly afterwards, the Freemen could be seen walking side by side with the Longshoremen supporting Jim Dowd.

Many in the Colony murmur of a Manchakan grain barge being hijacked from the Inner Pier, purportedly by a group of Docksmen. The Enclave themselves are rumoured to be utterly infuriated at the loss of their ship and apparently a number of men, particularly given that the Duchy already owes them a great deal of coin...

For the moment, however, the Armada remain tight-lipped.

Selûne glowed brightly above Ymph, when the Order came to Nebedzzos. Addressing the people of the Colony atop the Ziggurat, Enzo the Seer spoke of a declaration by the Order's Grand Master. Since the mist-shrouded beginnings of the Order upon the Isle, there has always been a Champion, chosen by the Master to lead the Island's peoples against the lingering darkness of the Apocalypse.

With the death of the Last Champion, the Grand Master has ordered the Trials of Fate to begin anew. There is much rumour and hearsay amongst the populace, but it is generally agreed that these Trials shall be open to any who would pledge themselves.

Ranging far and wide across the isle, the prospective champions will be required to recover a sacred stone from three Sacred Shrines. Upon collecting all three stones, those pledged to the Champion's quest will have to undergo the Final Trial; he who emerges victorious from this trial shall be named the Grand Master's Champion and, rumour has it, will be granted immortality and great power.

The crowned Champion, it is said, will be instrumental in the release of Nethzerim, an Order Acolyte currently imprisoned in the Targus Arena.

Seven days have been given for those whom would pledge themselves to offer their names to the Numinous Brethren, after which the Trials shall begin.

The Temple District was the scene of rampant violence today. A motley crew from the Docks, it is said, made to sack the Siamorphan Temple reportedly for the purpose of satisfying the demands of some divine being.

Though their assault failed, word was brought to the Duchy by a group of Ordersmen after they encountered the raiders moving through the ruins. A squad of Stygian Infantry accompanied by the Militia swiftly moved to cut the Docksmen off, facing off against them outside of the temples. Most were brought to their knees, the last few routing to the Temple of Targus. The Infantry did not pursue, believing their point amply made.

Accounts of what occurred inside are varied, but one thing is universally agreed upon; the paladin Horace Highwall was felled after facing off against a massively powerful spirit, trying to gain time for his allies to flee. It is said that he was raised back to life against the wishes of Numinous Order representatives.

Whatever the case, most worry that this is only the beginning of renewed hostilities between the Docks and the Dominion, particularly when elements of the former seem driven by divine purpose...

Rumour makes its way through the docks most hurriedly. Mouth to ear and hand to hand. Spreading slower throughout the region's surrounds.

A band of The Order's black-armoured Templar are said to have stormed The Wanton Wastrel to apprehend a man of the Docks. Demolishing the Wastrel in the process, rumour would have it these Ordermen laid low Dull Bluto before being run off by Johnny Lazare to drag the unfortunate docksman, kicking and screaming, beyond the region's ramshackle borders. The goodfolk of the docks now speak in fearful whispers, asking if The Order mean to seize them, too, in the night.

Word spreads like wildfire amongst both Duchy citizen and Docks freeman of the return of the much-reviled "Spirit that Sings", an orcen warleader of legend, having mustered a great Host into battle against the Colony during what is now known as Red Eleint. Though his purpose is not known, some say it is a portent of the coming End - that a tribal leading a raiding party spoke to a band of adventurers in the Webbed Wood of dreams, of bloodshed and of Apocalypse, all the while hailing the Spirit as a prophet.

Though unrelated, many speak worriedly of a Ruby being seen inside of the Colony, disappearing for some time into the Stygian Citadel. He is said to have been incensed, one particular Colonist claiming to have overheard something about a Stygian officer and his allies badly disrupting relations with House Jultar - a drow slaving house of some reknown as well as an ally of old to the Count.

More rumours from Old Port filter across the Isle Ymph telling ominously of drow agents being seen inside of the city - not unusual were it not for a few recent occurrences. The one most spoken of would be the sack of a holding pen just a few streets from the Last Gate by a group of drow said to be accompanied by a powerful evoker, himself guarded by a number of enormous slimes. They are said to have slain the Manchakan guardsmen within seconds, slipping the slaves free of their bonds before melting away into the city.

The Count's forces replied quickly, however. Comital Guardsmen are said to have arrived within minutes, subduing those either too weak or too stupid to have fled immediately and outright murdering those desperate enough to fight back. Those few who remained were hunted through the streets of the city, conspicuous in their rags and melted manacles. At last count, it is said that the Guardsmen were missing only one. Even he is said to have drowned in the churning waters off the coast.

In the alehouses of the Colony drunkards murmur, too, of an enormous aquatic beast being seen upon land. Fishermen speak of it reverently as though it was 'the one that got away', but some who seem to have their senses about them recognise it as something far more threatening than a mutant fish...

Mother Mabnel is dead, assassinated by an armored figure in the middle of one of her prophecies.

The barrow wights, upon losing their leader, have now declared all out war on the Sons of Sabuth.

The Longshoremen are also extremely displeased with the lack of unity being shown.  Jim Dowd has professed his displeasure publically.

The Docks seems to be on the verge of chaos once more, though the single unifying factor, their hatred of the Dominion and their wariness of the Order, remains.

Hammer 22nd, 1377 DR

Following the speculation the last days of Munt being involved in slavery, as witnessed and confirmed from several individuals including the Order, a group led by Adrian Mendazona and other noted individuals paid the guild house of Munt a visit. It is said that a large force met them in the basement of the Craftsmen's home and reinforcements had to be gathered from the Docks before all became quiet. The warriors left the building soon thereafter, wearied and dismayed. Carrying the burnt bodies of fallen friends they sought help from the shrine of Umberlee and left the guildhouse abandoned in their wake.

As for the rumours about slavery, no proof was shown. Despite countless searches from thieves, beggars and freemen of the Docks; no signs were had of any children hidden away in Munt's forge. Despite the protests of several and the public announcement of Wavelord Rus that proclaimed Munt a slaver, many have begun to speculate whether this has all been a ploy. Some of the same individuals refer to visions late Mother Mabnel made, of dark warriors coming to kill....

With the craftsmen disbanded, the power shifts in the Docks and people speak of several meetings between the Longshoremen, Merchant Guild, Freemen and now even the Barrow Wights.

Recent events have rocked the Island of Ymph to its very core.

After rumored days of preparation, a great host of stargazers, druids, and wildlings descended into the lonely Tower rumored to be a Prison for the greatly feared lichess, H'bala. Other wildlings are said to have set up a great camp around the exit of the Tower, watchful and ready for anything that might escape.

After several hours of unknown events, a cursed and screaming stargazer emerged from the depths to croak the Doom that occurred. As the frightened wildlings prepared for battle, it is said that.... something emerged from below. Every rumor has it as something different, but all agree that it was larger than a house and possessed a dozen distinct screaming voices each pleading for its own destruction.

As flocks many thousands strong of undead ravens rose and circled above the woods to the west, panic soon erupted in the Dominion and Docks of Nebezzdos.

Duke Antoine Trenada is said to have ordered his Stygians to take every defensive measure, but - as yet - none of H'bala's creatures have been sighted in the territory surrounding the Ziggurat and nearby lands.

Upon this already dire day, a savage group of Sabuthans and members of the Church of Umberlee assaulted the farmlands murdering all but one of Lord Stenton's man, and leaving for dead and wounded many a adventurer that came to aid. The subjects of Lord Stenton fled in fright back to the Ziggurat.

The group took hostage a member of the Armada whom they exchanged against a slave, a recent member of their church, captured by Baron Khavenko and sold to a Patrician due to her lack of citizenship.

It turns out that the savage attack was the work of the Patrician Sanny Leonald, at the behest of Lord Durjure who coveted the subjects of Lord Stenton thinking that the farmlands were too dangerous for the commoners to remain with the lurking threat of the minions of H'bala. A request that Stenton had refused, ready to raise his blade against the other House. Lord Durjure admitted to requesting the help of the Patrician, but not his methods, condemning the entire event and sentencing the man to death after a group of rebellious dock vagrants tried to rescue him.

Due to these developments, Lord Stenton challenged Lord Durjure to a duel to the death so that justice might be served for the death of his retainers and the eradication of the farmlands. Durjure tried to dodge the duel, but agreed at the end, sadly being defeated at the hands of the superior fighter in Joseph Stenton.

Jerziah, the sole heir and now Patriarch to House Durjure, was seen leaving the Arena carrying his father's body in hand to be buried...

The terrible howling screams of the Agony of the Hunt fills the western parts of the Island as it pillages the forests and wilderness, slaying all it finds and dragging their remains back to the great tower of its mistress H'bala. Entire family groups and small tribes of Stargazers are said to have gone missing, and the woods fills with the anguished cries of corrupted, undead animals. Even the very trees seem to be changing...


Meanwhile, rumors among those scattered groups of peoples who live in the wild lands say much is afoot. Another grand moot has been called, this one larger than all the more recent ones, with the Elders from nearly all the Stargazer tribes traveling to come in attendance.

Sailors report seeing tiny flotillas of swiftly paddled canoes bringing many of the little pale-skinned halflings from other Islands. Travelers note great swooping eagles above.

The ancient village in the Starwood fills with Stargazers from across Ymph and beyond, as all prepare for the moot in the coming days - it is said that, at last, the Elders of All the Tribes will reform the Ancient Order of the Zodiac, and so muster themselves to destroy the Betrayer Lichess once and for all.

Grand Moot is tentatively scheduled for this May Friday the 13, Afternoon GMT. Feel free to contact me in IRC or forum PM if you have a nature-oriented PC that would be interested in being involved.[/b]

Undead crows filled the skies of the ziggurat, and though the defenders held their grounds, many colonists did not find shelter quickly enough to survive the onslaught, more so as others locked themselves safely inside.

But this was to be just a test of the defenses of the dominion, for soon after, unholy magic pulled wrecks and cursed crews from the sea bottom, and the unholy armada attacked the dock's beachs.

Defenders were quickly divided into two groups: those who stayed ashore, and those who dared brave the unholy wrecks to destroy the source of the haunted wrecks.

The docks beachs are now littered with bodies, and the waters littered by the wrecks that have sunk back into the sea.

Hopefully, they will not rise again...

Militia camps begin to emerge around the Dominion following an announcement by Duke Antoine Trenada that all able-bodied men are to be drafted into service. Campfires light up a steadily more fortified Ziggurat, a post at the front gate scrutizining who enters and exits. Another has appeared near the Warden's District, demanding that refugees from the Docks enter service in the Militia immediately. Yet another ostensibly seeks to safeguard the Dwellings though rumours of blackmail and corruption are rife.

In the early hours of the morning, a great blanket of Mist slowly descended upon the Colony. Many folk comment that the Mists are the thickest they have seen for a long time, provoking worried talk amongst the commoners. As the night wore on, travelers and adventurers brought news of the Mists from throughout the Isle; apparently, the Mists have begun to settle thickly across much of Ymph. Many people whisper in worried tones, and rumours talk of bad Omens and dark times ahead, many more people sneer at such talk, branding it idle chit-chat for fisher wives. And yet, as dawn approached, and the warm embrace of the sun promised a bright, new day, many would note the Mists do not fade...

The same night, Jim Dowd of the Longshoremen took to the Docks stage to address the common folk of the district; though not a man of flowery words or great, inspiring speeches, Dowd warned that though the problems the Dock faces are many, the greatest of all is the looming threat of internal-conflict. He went on to appeal to the people to stand together, in these dark times, a comment that inspired much talk amongst the crowds. Some advocating Dowd's vision and others laughing it off...

As night fell upon Nebedzzos last eve, and the Mists continued to cloy thickly to the shoreline, those brave few fishermen attempting to earn their way from the dangerous, shrouded waters reported seeing the flicker of torches in the darkness, and hearing the raucous laughter of some unseen enemy within the shroud.

These rumours inspired many of the locals to retreat indoors, barricading themselves in their homes and Inns whilst a ragtag band of patriots, adventurers and do-gooders remained to stand a vigil against the darkness through the night.

The defenders waited nervously, with no sign of their unseen enemy beyond the monotonous thumping of steel on wood. Then, after a long silence, the slaughter began. The Grey Mist Raiders descended upon the Docks Ward with reckless abandon, baying for blood and sacrifice. The Raiders drove the defenders deeper and deeper into the Docks, slaying any man who dared stand in their way; with the defenders locked in a savage battle, a band of Raiders stole their way deeper into the District, secretly, and breaking down doors, forcing their way into the homes of those common-folk who sheltered within. The entire district seemed to erupt in screams and cries of anguish and woe, yet was drowned out by the manic laughter of the Raiders as they carried their prisoners back to their Galleys.

As swift as they had come, the Raiders disappeared back into the Mists, women and children slung over their shoulders; yet not before putting several buildings to the flame, and vowing to return within the twoday for those innocents who yet remain.

As the flames threatened to burn the entire District to the ground, those whom stood in its defence set out to quench the flames. After the smoke cleared, flames died the Mist settled once more, and throughout the Docks a sense of muted despair and worry is felt by all.

What the future will bring, none know, but all the Omens point to dark days ahead...

Deep in the forests and jungles of Ymph, the talking drums and swirling great eagles signaled the start of a grand moot and gathering between all the many Totem Tribes of the Stargazers.

As the meeting progressed, the slow rhythmic drumming turned rapidly to drums of alarm and battle as the forces of H'Bala struck against the savages and their widlling allies.

Even as the great eagles wheeled and evacuated many of the little pygmies away to a place of safety, a terrible battle raged on the forest floor. Judging by the horrible many-tongued howls of the Agony of the Hunt, and the terrible sound of immense crashing trees, there can be no doubt which side was the victor....

A few rumors, some contradictory, have begun to reach the Dominion and Docks describing the events that occurred.

Some say that it was not actually a battle, but rather an orgiastic ritual in which the depraved savages summoned forth the forces of H'Bala to whom they sacrificed their children and elderly. They describe the Savages as the unrepentant servants of the Lichess, and as vermin to be destroyed as soon as possible.

Some rumors say that it was the Order, or maybe slavers from the Dominion, that attacked the stargazers in a surprise assault.

Yet even other rumors talk about how in the midst of their Moot, a tremendous White Stag appeared, which soon transformed into the figure of the near-mythical Great Druid Naholopet Ymph; who is said to be descended from the Netherese explorer Zephulot Ymph who discovered and names the Islands. It is said that this Great Druid offered advice for how H'Bala might be fought, or at least be contained.

Some say that the Druid was murdered.

Some say he escaped in the battle.

Some say it was only a cunning disguise, and he was H'Bala all along, playing another trick upon the foolish wildlings.

In the early hours of this morning, rumour spread swiftly amongst the Docks. The Gangs were gathering at a Summit, at the behest of the Sons of Sabuth, to discuss the increasing threat of Mist Raiders looming within the Shroud.

Little is known of what was discussed with the Laddermen Hall, though many folk agree that it cannot have been good as shortly after its beginning great shouts erupted from within, followed by the clash of drawn steel. Shortly afterward, Jim Dowd was seen stalking from the building with a scowl, before barricading himself within the Longshoremen headquarters. The summit, it seems, was sundered and as if sensing its failure, a thick blanket of Mists settled upon the Docks.

Horns blared from within the Mists, and the sounds of beating drums echoed across the Docks. Women and children alike fled inward, barricading themselves in homes, and some even huddling together, fearfully, in the Wastrel.

The Raiders had come for their tribute.

The Raiders fell upon the Docks in a bloody battle, forcing their way through the line of brave defenders, tossing firebrands into houses setting them aflame. Butchering any who stood in their way, the Raiders brought the Docks to its knees. Buildings collapsed, consumed by flame, and the streets were awash with the blood of freemen.

Though strangely enough, the District's women and children were left unharmed, the Raiders seeming content to let them huddle within their homes. The battle raged for a long while until, finally, with the Docks crippled, a horn blared once more from within the Mists and the Raiders retreated to their ships. A sigh of relief went up from the defenders, as they thought themselves safe. The defenders begun to celebrate, despite the heavy losses and the Docks Ward being left burning, more than a few buildings having been consumed by the flames...

... yet their celebrations were short lived, as gliding from the Mists came a single galley, which landed upon the shores. A huge Raider disembarked, alongside a large band of his men. A band of defenders lead by the Son of Sabuth Sir Gerold Valdimar met them upon the shores, where they were seen to exchange a few short words, before returning to the Docks.

What happened next shook the entire District to its core; the Sons of Sabuth being seen rounding up a large group of women and children before leading them to the shore, ignoring the angry protests and pleas of the gathered adventurers.

A valiant attempt by a band of adventurers to slay the Raiders upon the beaches was short-lived, the leader of the Raiders being seen to defeat them all almost single-handedly. The adventurer leading the foolish assault was seen to be beheaded, his corpse given to the Mists and his head tossed at the feet of those gathered to witness the event.

This final attempt at defiance having failed, the Docks was finally brought to its knees. The Sons of Sabuth handed over their Tribute of women and children, and the leader of the Raiders disappeared back into the Mists.

The district is in uproar; gang fights, back alley murders and riots are common place. It seems this free district has finally descended into Anarchy.

Some commend the Sons for making the hardest choice possible, whilst others curse them to the Hells believing it simply opens them up for further Raids, some even going so far as to say that a small detachment of Raiders remained behind, to ensure further Tributes are given without protest. Whether this is true, remains to be seen, but one thing is certain, the Docks are in no condition to fend off further assaults...

Second of Alturiak, 1378 DR

In the aftermath of the large raid made upon the Docks, a coalition between the Merchant Guild, Longshoremen and Freemen has risen in the Docks to protect the citizenry. Propagating order, compassion and taking a stand against the sacrifice of children; the movement met with much approval from the gathered that had come to listen to the trio responsible: Hortense Higgins, Jim Dowd and Cyrus Doors. Soon after the proclamation, an assassin attempted to take down Dowd but was defeated by the watching Docksmen. The assassin, dressed as an Infantryman of the Armada, was handed over to the Sons who later attempted to extort him to the Dominion.

Rumours speak of the confrontation between the coalition and the Sons when the Infantry was handed over. It is said that they spoke out against the Sons' latest actions and condemned them for handing over the children to the Mist Raiders. In all but declearing war, it is clear that the coming days may see greater strife as a measure of order is attempted to be stabilized out of the anarchy of the streets to assure protection, improvement, defense against the Raiders and - some say - finally contest the Sons for rule in the Docks.

The arrival of the Manchakan Enclave has caused a stir in the Colony. Though they come under the auspices of aid from Old Port, the quarantine of Isle Ymph sends a mixed signal - immediately upon arriving, it is said that the Enclave announced Old Port to be henceforth closed to travel for any vessel flying Ymphian colours. It is said that a trading ship which had already left port was boarded and all on board were detained at His Excellency's pleasure that very night.

The Enclave's Retainers, however, have been granted the status of Patrician and seats upon the Duke's court. Rumours trickle from the Patrician caste of the Count issuing a summons to the Duke and his loyal retainers such that the Ymphian situation can be discussed, though as ever there are darker murmurings...

In recent days the Witch's Host has been spotted abroad in increasing numbers. Where once the creatures of H'bala avoided the Nebedzzos Ruins, they are now seen in great numbers just beyond the walls. Her ravens circle the Ziggurat almost daily, and her agents watch closely from the shadows.

Not two days past a lone mounted scout was seen making haste from the forests, toward the Armada Citadel. It is said he brought dire news of a column of Loyalists on a routine scouting mission into the forests beyond being set upon by a Host of H'balan creatures. Not long afterward what remained of the Militia Column was seen making its way from the wildlands battered and broken.

At their heels, a great army of H'balan creatures. They descended upon those whom rallied to the Gate's defense with howls and roars of anguish and despair. What followed was a bloody battle, with all manner of creatures taking to the field. Some rumours even speak of H'bala herself marshaling the assault, yet such talk is swiftly dismissed by those in power.

As the dust settled, what was revealed was a scene of bloody devastation. The defenders had held, albeit barely, with many dead at the hands of the undead Host, the rotting corpses of the Witch's minions were piled high and put to the torch; a blazing beacon of hope to those who would stand against the Witch.

A day after the bloody battle at the Gates of Nebedzzos, once more the Witch's Ravens were seen to take flight into the skies above Ymph. This time, they made directly toward the fief of Lord Blackhearth which, for the most part, had been spared her wrath.

Lord Agravain's Templar were swift to react, fearing the dark tidings the Ravens might bring. They rallied all who would would stand against the darkness under their banner, and waited.

Yet, all that was to follow as they stood their vigil on the Castle's walls was an eerie silence. No sign yet of the Host they feared was coming.

Until...

A lone scout came to the Keep, demanding the Gates be thrown opened. Many were seen to demand news of him, and yet he spoke to none. He disappeared inside for some time, before emerging at the flank of Lord Blackhearth himself.

A great Host, greater than any that had been seen before, was bound for Vortgyn's Rest. He declared the Rest a lost cause, and commanded that the people be evacuated and brought to Blackhearth Keep. The roads were far too dangerous, and so the defenders were asked to hold the line whilst the tunnels under Blackhearth Keep were completed; and so the defenders made for the Rest, bringing news of Lord Blackhearth's command. Swiftly, the people began to grab what few provisions they had and packed them away, huddling in the centre of the hamlet, whilst their valiant protectors stood the line against what was to come.

The forests erupted with the howls of wolves, the skies echoing with the shrieks of the Witch's rotten ravens, and so the assault began.

The battle was to last well into the night, the defenders standing stoic in the face of Death. They piled the corpses high at their feet, and would not be moved. Where one man fell, another would take his place in grim defiance. The ground was slick with the blood of living and dead alike, illuminated by a roaring pyre in the centre.

Three waves of beasts fell upon the defenders, rumours even speaking of Lord Agravain taking to the field to deliver a rallying speech to the weary defenders. Three waves, and still they came, pouring in what seemed limitless numbers from the woods surrounding the hamlet.

And then, what all men feared came to pass. Cries of agony erupted from the forests, nature itself calling to be slain. The ground shook, and trees were torn up by the roots...

The Agony had come.

Whilst the defenders braced for the end, the Blackhearth engineers completed the tunnels beneath them and the battle turned into a retreat. Women, children and wounded were evacuated into the tunnels, followed swiftly by those defenders lucky enough to escape the Agony of the Hunt. Those who remained in a foolish attempt to slay the beast lay dead, no living thing stirred amongst the ruins of the hamlet.

Vortgyn's Rest had fallen. Ymph was death.

Blackhearth is besieged.

Anticipated for an hour if not two and heralded by the arrival of the erstwhile Great Druid Ar-Moengul Ymph upon the back of a rotting wyvern, his own form withered and dead, eyes glowing from out his skull.

Calling to the defenders upon the walls, he parlayed but briefly with Knight-Champion Jacques de Villiers who held command in the absence of Lord Blackhearth, said to be leading a sorty in the Mountains west.

De Villiers roundly refused to surrender as was demanded, and so began the Siege of Castle Blackhearth. Catapults were positioned, great flying monstrosities hurled themselves at the walls as strange, rotting orcs scaled them - it would seem the Maiden has discriminated not at all between the various denizens upon Isle Ymph in building her mighty Host.

Holding fast against a sustained assault, de Villiers eventually announced to the weary defenders the rumours of a shambling Orcen host marching to tip the siege in favour of the Maiden. It is said that he mustered men and women of every political alignment for a salient and promptly made for the woods.

From here, details become hazy. Some say that the group was felled in its entirety by an animated orcen beast referred to as 'The Ironjaw', legendary in the Old City and amongst the Order Numinous. Others dismiss this as nonsense, that there is no way the Maiden could have gotten her hands on that particular corpse - whatever the case, what occurred next is more or less undisputed.

A mighty orc charged into the fray as the fallen defenders were to be turned to the service of H'bala, de Villiers among them, and drove the alleged 'Ironjaw' and all of his servants from the field of battle in a terrifying display of strength. Upon turning and telling the captives to bring word to the stone of a 'march of salvation, merciful and unstoppable,' the Spirit that Sings stalked off to the treeline and disappeared into the mists.

The siege of Blackhearth continues regardless, a bitter trade of blows. Though the bloodied and battered de Villiers curses it for folly, rumours spread like wildfire from the beleaguered Order at the Castle to the Ymphian Colony of the return of the legendary Spirit - and what his salvation could mean.

The dusk of Alturiak the 7th began eventfully and continued in that same vein.

Rumours spread throughout the Colony of the impending departure of Duke Antoine Trenada and his retinue for the Old Port, Patricians and Stygians both gathering for a march through the Docks to the Piers.

Unsurprisingly, the Stygian Commandant's party was ambushed a number of times - it is said that they killed more than their fair share of Docksmen, but there was little resistance of note.

Upon arriving in the Old City and meeting with Scion Edward Gravenheart on the shore, details become hazy. It's said, however, that the Duke was slighted a series of times, including being forced to stand in the rain outside of the Grand Arena while the Count supposedly bore witness to gladitorial games - though the Arena itself was wholly silent.

Finally allowed to enter the Arena, they found it to be true - there were no spectators, no blood staining the sand, just a ring of elite Comital Guard, three Rubies and the Count - sitting high above the Arena and flanked by his Grand Vizier, a Master Ruby and a drow, said to be highly placed in House Jultar.

Though the Count refused to even set his eyes upon the Duke, Trenada and the Vizier spoke for a time of Ymph - a show, it's said, merely intended to slight Trenada further. The Grand Vizier ommanded him to go and speak with the Count's Rubies of strategy to win the battle against the Maiden, yet what actually happened happened too fast for the details to be clear-

What is known, however, is that after the dust settled, the Duke lay bloodied and bound upon the sand. Scion Edward Gravenheart was felled, his guts spilled and groaning, dying. A female Ruby was reportedly choked to death by Trenada using his own chains - though many dispute this as brazenly untrue.

It is known, too, that Trenada himself was savagely and brutally lashed.

Commanded to return to Ymph and not disappoint His Excellency again on pain of death, the retinue limped home. Trenada, bloodied but head held high, gave a speech (http://www.escapefromunderdark.com/forums/showthread.php?p=240354#post240354) atop the Ziggurat announcing his disdain for the Count and for Old Port alongside his intention to march upon H'bala.

In five days, he states, the Siege of Blackhearth will be shattered — the Maiden's Tower will fall.

Last eve was an eventful one.

It began quietly, as the Mist was seen to swirl and settle atop Blackhearth Keep, enshrouding the highest battlements from view. Shortly afterward, a lone Templar was seen to make way to the Mythallar Chamber. Calling himself the Grand Master's Herald, he spoke of the Champion of Ymph, Brok'Tor, and a duel to occur against the Bloodreaper Nethzerim, the imprisoned soul of an Order Acolyte.

Many adventurers and interested folk gathered to bear witness, making their way to the Temple District and into the Shrine of Targus taking a portal to the Arena therein. Within, the Bloodreaper Nethzerim paced angrily about the Arena, demanding to know whom dared to challenge him.

It was then the Brok'Tor, the Champion of Ymph arrived, striding forward in ancient and rusted armour. A tabard hanging from his shoulders, the White Stag of Ymph displayed proudly upon it. Strangely, Nethzerim greeted the Champion as an old friend, and bade him join with him in the Arena.

The Champion took to the sands, drew an ornate and ancient blade, and after some short words, as is customary, the two Champions did battle.

The battle was long and bloody, each of the two Champions almost proving the victor, before by some turn of Fate their adversary would begin the onslaught once more. Yet, Nethzerim was to finally prove the loser, after a relentless assault by the Master's Champion. He was laid low, his lifeblood spilling across the sands. As he lay there, gurgling his life away, the Mists began to descend.

The entire Arena began to shake, and from Nethzerim's broken body a huge, terrifying spirit erupted in anger. Whilst the spirit roared furiously, the Mists spirited away Nethzerim's broken form and where the Champion had once stood as a stout bastion against this threat, his armour fell from him, useless, and rusted into nothing. He stood naked and alone, facing down the great spirit who was named Zhanarruk.

The spirit knelt before the Champion, acknowledging his power over death and bloodshed. He then arose, and thrust his great zweihander into the Champion's chest. Again, the Arena began to tremble as the blood gushed from the wound. Slowly, the Champion was overcome with agony and blood, as the Spirit of Zhanarruk consumed him fully. The Champion gasped, turned on his audience with cold, dead eyes, before he stalked deeper into the Arena's catacombs.

Some time passed before rumours began to circulate. The Champion of Ymph, Brok'Tor, had been spotted in the Temples. Many folk gathered to see what had become of him. And yet, what they beheld resembled the sacrificed Champion in nothing but his looks. He was wholly consumed by bloodlust and hatred, where once there was kindness. He named himself before the gathered, Bloodreaper Brok'Tor the Glorious, anointed servant of Targus. Whatever remained of the valorous Champion was no more, what stood in his place being a pale imitation of his previous self. He preached glory to Targus, and how bloodshed would spread and consume the Isle. He promised glory to any of those who would shed blood in honour of his God, and defied any who would stand against his wishes. Thus ended the fall of Brok'Tor, and thus began the rise of Nethzerim ...

... Soon afterward, a horn blew from the Gates. A Host of Templars rode to the Gate, the Grand Master's banner flying ragged and proud at its head. The Grand Master himself had come to Nebedzzos, and 'pon his flank - Nethzerim, now known as the Awakened.

They brought word of Nethzerim's waking nightmare in service to the God, Targus, and how between bloodshed and the butchering of innocents and defilers he had witnessed the Apocalypse in all is terrible reality.


Finally, the Grand Master declared the End of Days had come to Ymph, and that the Order, oft ignored, was its greatest hope. Yet, in its current form the Numinous Brethren were too few, and so the Grand Master declared a new rank was to be created amongst the Order, and those Templars faithful to the Three would make up the new Knighthood. A banner of the Footman is to be raised, and a Host of men from all walks of life and all faiths and creeds rallied beneath it. Together, with their belief in the Master's Apocalypse, they would stand against it and turn the Hand of Fate...[/i]

The chastisement from Thrask Morv for denying them more time to prepare still ringing in his ears, Duke Antoine Trenada departed avowed to form a salient against the Maiden's Tower. A contingent of Militia supplemented by adventurers and commanded by Infantry Aishê Nafrémetit formed to shatter the Siege of Blackhearth.

The attack upon H'bala's Siege Camp is said to have been gruelling. In a bid to create time, the Order Numinous set the fringes of the Tangled Wood alight, the orange tinge to the horizon heralding the beginning of the struggle.

The Dominion vanguard are rumoured to have encountered remnants from the razing of the Starwood - animated to serve the Maiden. Murmurs are also heard of the "Ironjaw", marshal of the H'balan Siege being struck down after a particularly brutal engagement.

Whatever occurred, the Siege of Blackhearth is ended and the Duke's first move against H'bala is a triumph.

Mere hours after the end of the Siege, Knight Templar Jacques de Villiers was seen arguing bitterly an unknown officer of the Dominion. He departed the Castle in the early hours with a column of Templar. Meanwhile, caravans guarded by Militia and Manchakan guards are seen transporting crates towards H'balan lands - siege devices for the Duke's efforts, it's said.

An announcement from the Duke or one of his retinue is expected, though he has been notably absent since departing the Colony. Nevertheless, the mood within the Dominion has improved for now since the news of its first triumph against the Witch.

A King rises.

In the wake of a series of tumultous assaults upon Trenada's own siege camp, aid was summoned from the Armada forces still posted in the Dominion. Marching to relief at the head of a column of Militia, the Infantry repelled a brutal assault from the Maiden, following which Trenada began to speak.

In the middle of his impromptu speech, however, a Stygian Infantryman - now rumoured to have been an agent of the Count, and aspiring Ruby alongside - loosed his steel. As he made to strike at the Duke, Veteran Kedrian threw himself into the fray without a second thought, brutally and mercilessly cut down by the would-be assassin.

He would be this agent's only victim, however, as he was soon overwhelmed by the defender's combined efforts. Dour and somewhat forlorn, the Duke bid them herald his return, that he might make a declaration 'long overdue'.

Following his return to the Dominion, what is said to have been a heated exchange in the Duke's own office with one of his Lords, he ascended to the Ziggurat's apex to make his speech. Aside him, unusually, stood Lord Agravain Blackhearth, their aides and advisors arrayed around.

As the sun crested upon the horizon, Duke Antoine Trenada spoke of the heroism of fallen compatriots, of the complicity of the Count in the Colony's decline and of impending victory over the Maiden. His would-be assassin was executed summarily by the Duke himself.

With the blood issuing from the stricken man's still-gurgling throat spilling against his greaves, the Duke declared that the sun rose over an Ymph renewed, an Ymph to which salvation had come.

With fire to his eye, Antoine Trenada proclaimed himself King.

Turning to Agravain Blackhearth, he once more condemned the Count as decadent and remiss in his duties, going so far as to declare he and his agents traitors devoid of legitimacy. As the scion of the Four Houses, he conferred upon Agravain Blackhearth the title of Prince and the rulership of Old Port.

Though the Isles' newfound King strode away, his final declaration of his impending victory over the Maiden and cries of 'King! King! Glory to the King!' ringing in the ears of his subjects, yet more questions are left in his wake.

Some ponder why Lord Vladimir Khavenko, on foot of this declaration, appeared to declare the absorption of the Loyalist Militia into the House Khavenko, though this was swiftly followed by a sending from the Stygian Armada declaring that Khavenko held once more the title of Patrician.

Whatever the case, most welcome the Duke's 'ascension' in light of growing bitterness towards Old Port, though some murmur of food supplies growing desperately short and claim it noteable that Trenada has not provided an answer as Duke nor King.

For days, word has continued to filter in from King Trenada's front lines. Scouts and messengers forever bringing news of the King's campaign across Ymph. The King, it was said, is winning. The Maiden's Tower crumbles at his bombardment. Every counter-assault, every bloody attack, repelled by His Majesty's column. The pyres burn fiercely, and in great number; within the tenday, the King promised, the Maiden would be dead, her tower sundered and her Host scattered into the darkness, never to return. Ymph would live again.

And then, upon the last eve, new word was spread amongst the King's People...

Word of bitter defeat.

It is said that the King, believing his victory imminent, planned to lead a devastating charge against the Maiden's Hosts. He sent word to his people in the Dominion, and gathered those sworn to his name, and even making a call for masterless men, the honourless and depraved, to march under his banner, to bring victory to his Kingdom.

The gathered Host made for the siege lines, and from there, the front lines. Trenada's column, having heard word of a great Host of the Maiden's creatures amassing closer to her Tower, had pushed forward, setting up catapults and siege weaponry, they were preparing themselves for the final assault.

"We need only hold them," the King would say. "For when their Host lays battered and broken at our feet, and the People of Ymph stand defiant, and unyeilding; it is then that we shall strike, and tear victory from their rotting maw."

And yet, the time was slow to come. The Host continued to fling themselves, senselessly, at the defender's shield wall, each attack more bloody than the last. And after each the King bade them hold, and so they held.

Always, above, the Maiden watched. Ravens circled the bloody battle, leering down upon the field hungrily, as fresh carrion was added to the pile. Yet even as the defenders became ever more desperate with the next attack, the shields held.

Finally, the Maiden's Host seems to slow, and no longer could she sustain an the assault. The assault was broken, and so the King signaled the charge. The shields broke, and what followed was a fury fueled by vengeance. The King's column broke through the Maiden's line, and tore it apart from within. Defeated, the last of the deathless creatures quit the field, and skulked back to their Maiden's embrace.

"The day is won," was the call, "Life flourishes!"

Yet it was not to be so. As the King marshaled his column ever closer to the Maiden's Tower, catapults in tow, the mass of crows above grew ever larger...

From the forests, a figure emerged; a rotting husk of a man, bearing a bloody sickle, and a malevolent gaze in his glowing eyes. The figure, it is said, proclaimed himself Ymph itself. He seemed pleased to see the King and his column, going as far thanking King Trenada for "the part" he played "so well".

"Ymph is death", the figure proclaimed. And with this final word, plunged the sickle he held into the sodden ground. Dark, sinister magics erupted about the battlefield; bodies burst, spitting gore over Trenada's men, and the skies above darkened. Clouds gathered, and the ground began the shake. The figure disappeared into the forests once more, leaving Trenada to his fate. From the trees, a great mass of dead and dying things erupted, begging any man who could to slay him. Hounds yelped, and whined for death, birds called desperately.

The Agony was come.

What followed is not quite sure. Great confusion, and a bloody rout. Word spreads that the King was first from the field, cowering and sobbing his defeat, yet others say the King was the last from the field, sustaining many a wound from the beast, before retreating, angered. However, what is sure is that this is where the battle was turned.

The Agony emerged, and with it brought great death upon the defenders. Trenada ordered his catapults winched, and trained on the creature. The defenders were barely holding the beast, and Trenada made the call to fire...

The entire battleline of catapults erupted in flames, exploding from within. Dead militia were flung far and wide, and those who were to survive took one look at the devestation about them, and turned to flee.

Chaos reigned; the Agony tore through the defenders and slaughtered without care or rhythm. The King's men attempting the hold the beast at bay faltered, and the slaughter begin. With the line broken, the retreat was sounded. Those remaining alive broke, and retreated to the siege camp, the beast snapping hungrily at their heels.

A last and final stand was made in the camp, where more catapults were loaded and trained on the great beast. These too exploded in flames, consuming the foolish who stood close by. All was lost, and death was soon to come as the Agony descended upon the remnants of the King's column, to finish them and feast at last.

And then, a horn blew from the western forests. Flaming arrows loosed from the trees, peppering the Agony with burning shafts. A ragged banner emerged, bearing the Grey Questing Dragon of the Numinous Order. At its foot, the infamous Knight-Templar, Jacques de Villiers, and in his wake, a small force of Templars came bravely to the field.

Continuing to loose their flaming arrows upon the beast, drawing it away from the King's last stand, so they might escape. As the King and his force escaped, and with a final, contemptuous smirk over his shoulder, de Villiers hurried his force into the forests, the Agony bounding after them, begging for death...

The King's column limped home, their mouths soured by the bitter taste of defeat. The column was silent, and the King was seen to disappear, broodingly, into the Citadel. He would not be seen to emerge.

Following the return of King Antoine Trenada's battered column to the Dominion, rumours began to fly around the Docks of a renewed Mist Raider offensive. This clamoring of fishwives and malcontents was to be vindicated, the Sons of Sabuth acquiescing once again to the wont of the Raiders.

They were permitted free passage through the Docks, this fearsome, howling host of warriors, proceeding onward towards the Dominion.

They filtered through the outlying alleys and streets with ease, openly sacrificing women and children as they went. Eventually met by a group of adventurers, they were not beaten off before exacting a heavy toll upon the Dominion.

For King Antoine I, it was to be the last straw. Through a speech at the apex of the Ziggurat he proclaimed his intent to march immediately upon the Docks, to put an end to Horton Grouse and his Sons of Sabuth and to once more take the ward under his control rather than face enemies on two fronts.

The forces of the Dominion mobilised once again, albeit subdued and considerably fewer than had departed for the Maiden's Tower. The streets of the Docks were quickly deserted, many barring themselves inside of their homes and many more simply abandoning the district entirely.

A force of Sons, however, were to meet the King as he made his incursion ahead his column of Stygian soldiers, supplemented by loyal adventurers and defector Docksmen of the 'Confederacy'. Though it was called the justice of Umberlee, the justice of the Order and the justice of the King, Trenada himself dubbed it but one thing - salvation.

The column was confronted immediately by a group of weary Sons, headed by Admiral Horton Grouse. Exchanging but a few words, the pale and drawn Antoine Trenada made his way immediately for Admiral Grouse as battle commenced, the latter sneering and laughing even as they fought.

Following a brief clash in which the Sons were thoroughly trounced, Grouse made his way for the Temple of Ilmater, Trenada on his heels. Barreling inside, the door slammed shut and locked ahind them.

Minutes later, with the Docks ward dazed and subjugated, many began to wonder what had become of their King.

Upon gaining entry to the Temple, it is said those present were confronted with a gruesome scene of slaughter, the stink of human offal strong upon the air. A pile of corpses, man, woman and child lay before them, blood an inch thick upon the floor. Laughter echoed from deeper inside of the Temple.

Pressing onward, a small hideaway was found, seemingly used by the erstwhile Sons of Sabuth. At the end of the darkened room stood Father Michael clad in black, joyous and proud and laughing maniacally as he stood above the ritually slain body of Horton Grouse, a dagger plunged into his chest. The King Antoine Trenada sat slumped aside him, facing the wall and giggling madly from around his thumb, stuck into the corner of his mouth.

What occurred from here is more or less a blur, though it is said that Father Michael declared his fealty to the 'One True God' and escaped from the Temple, leading his pursuers upon a merry chase around the Docks and slaying quite a few. King Antoine Trenada was led from the ward, staring blankly and occasionally murmuring to himself in a sing-song voice, utterly mad. Sons of Sabuth were seen to unveil themselves upon the streets in Ruby uniforms and proceed to engage in wholescale slaughter.

Whatever else can be said, the whole of the Colony has been rocked to its very foundations, left leaderless, defenceless and under threat of imminent destruction.

As the sun rose above Ymph, silhouetted against the dawn could be seen the Floating Enclave of the Transcendent Conclave as it rumbled on it's new course towards the Lich's Territory...

As the enormous, floating rock entered over the witches lands, great swarms of undead could be seen flocking to the mage's stronghold. Whether teleported atop the rock by the Witch, or simply flying up as the great, undead wyverns did, the Mages and their Consorts took on heavy resistence from H'bala's hordes. Even from the Ziggurat, the flashes of powerful magicks and the sound of battle could be heard.

As best the onlookers could tell, the Maiden herself boarded the Floating Enclave in a radiant flash of sinister red light. Shortly thereafter, could be heard a terrifying explosion from within the bowels of the Conclave's fortress. Already, some whisper that it differed from the explosions of the Maiden's pigs. It was then that the trouble for the Conclave began, and some go so far as to whisper that it was sabotage.

After the first terrifying explosion, spell battle of proportions few have ever seen was joined. Speculators assume that Razul and the Witch met in a terrifying show of arcane might, and shortly thereafter could be heard H'balas rage as she was flung from the Enclave's very floor, to hurtle into the dawn light.  But, as she falls, a single finger extends upwards...

A ring upon withered bone flickers, once, and disappears...

Explosions such as not been seen upon Ymph for two thousand years rock the Enclave. Her final spell sends devastation upon the Rock. Huge sections of it are torn asunder, and the Enclave began to spiral madly out of control. The Enclave twisted, and turned, sometimes fully upside down as it careened towards the mountains. The forms of the defeated Caliphars and Consorts could be seen falling from the spiraling enclave to their inevitable deaths...

Out of control, the Transcendent Conclave`s floating Enclave - smouldering and with large sections of it broken - passed over the lands of Ymph, smashing into the mountains that divide east from west.

The fate of the Enclave is now uncertain. Having crashed it's way through the mountains, it continued on, floating unsteadily. As to survivors, none can as of yet say...

 

With the Conclave and its shield gone, the ruins at night have once more become scenes of regular skirmishes and raids. Many have taken to hiding within the confines of the Temple to Jergal under the protection of the Pallid Mask and the many brave adventurers who have been defending it, but many others continue to huddle in the relative safety of the Ziggurat or their boarded up homes throughout the Docks.

Well known recent events include:

The somewhat unexplained departure of most of the soldiers of the Stygian Armada. It is speculated that their members have taken their mad King elsewhere in search of a cure to his curse, although others suggest that they have simply fallen prey to cowardice or prudence. A small group of Stygians are said to remain, but they have been mostly out of sight from regular duty upon the Ziggurat.

The somewhat notorious Lord Stenton has taken advantage of the power vacuum to declare himself Steward of Ymph, and his retainers have begun to hand out equipment to militia members and any others willing to defend the Ziggurat.

A small flotilla of fishing vessels under the command of Horter Roose departed Ymph. Their intention was to take as many refugees as possible and escape the dangers of Ymph. Unfortunately, the entire flotilla - packed with refugees - was burned and sunk by Count's blockade of Ymph. Only a few adventurers with strong lungs lived to tell the tale. Hatred of the Count of Old Port is at an all time high.

As the desperate of Docks and Dominion seek out safety for the nights, some speak of only one rumored hope: that somehow the meek, long-time guardian of the Temple of Jergal - Lotheri Sanq - might recall some ancient secret of how to mitigate the threat of the Nightrisers of Ancient Nebezzdos.

Alturiak 28th, 1378 DR

The Docks fall under the heavy assault of Nightrisers and the bonewyrm Marrozhentul. The survivors are few and all taking refuge in the Temple of Jergal.

The Ziggurat is crippled during the previous night's raid.

The Nightrisers walk the ruins in large numbers.

The amount of living dwindle...

The Last Shouts:

The moon is dimmed by thick Mist, giving the evening an air of bleak lightlessness, like the much prophecised darkening that would see the skies black forever.

Tales of the Netherese reconquest of Ymph spread about the desperate survivors of their City - of untold legions, rising out of the depths. From the Gobsquat, the shrieks of butchery resound.

With pitiful screams, the last of the goblins of the gobsquat are butchered by the nightrisers, a few survivors scrambling and slipping in the blood of entrails of their fallen companions... running into hidey holes and the sewers below.

Nightrisers patrol the Docks, butchering any last remnants - although there are few, now, with most of its inhabitants gone or dead. Some fled to the Wastrel, heavily barricaded now, others making their way to the Governor's Isle where rumors of safety are to be found.

Many of the Dominion's residents remain within the Ziggurat, believing there to be safety to be found in the ancient quarters of the great stepped stone -

- the bottom most level is abruptly blasted through, and chattering Nightrisers hordes swarm up from this unexpected weakness, sprinting through the chambers, cutting down all they find.

More Nightrisen swarm the Ziggurat, driving even Nduro and a few desperate last survivors into the Mythallar Chamber, where upon they barricade the doors.

Chants of victory from the legions of the Nightrisen fill the air of cold Nebezzdos.

A Nightriser champion atop an undead horse, wielding a flaming scythe, plants a great flag upon the peak of the Ziggurat. With thundrous roars, huge bone-construct beasts emerge from the sewers. THe nightrisers swarm over the ruins.

The air of the Temple District is filled with the sounding of disciplined, marching, skeletal feet.

The door of the Temple to Jergal - refugees crammed into its confines - Bursts open abruptly.

The Mouth of the Risen speaks: I announce the coming of representatives of our Legions.

I announce the coming of Sub-Warden Anghoul Mordrimm.

I announce the coming of Sub-Warden Ghula Yaggzahar."

"I announce the coming of Sub-Warden Lamorak Sanq."

"They will speak with you. Attack them not, or you shall all surely perish."

The Sub-Warden Lamorak Sanq, mounted atop a fiery steed, announces the victory of the Nightrisen over the living -- yet, drawing a jar from inside of his surcoat, he offers a gift.

Lotheri Sanq, Jergalite Scrivener, steps forth to accept the ornate jar from the Sub-Warden -- along with an ancient scythe forged of dark steel.


The Sub-Wardens are seen to each bow their heads before Sanq in apparent reverence, the man himself becoming less and less confused, voice gaining surety and volume -- finally, proclaiming himself Warden of the Nightrisers.

Quote

Quote"These halls .. these endless halls! It has been so long! I am Imperator! I am Warden!

[Lotheri roars, so that all the Legions of Nightrisen can hear his dread cries]

My Nightrisen, NEBEDZZOS RISES FROM THE DUST!

This City is no longer for you. It is no realm for those that breathe.

You are outcast. Take your women and your young, and depart. Leave, and never return.

Bewildered, the adventurers walk through the line of Nightrisen standing at attention - exiled from the city, their fate uncertain and unknown.

As the adventurers and warriors of the Dominion and Docks and Ruins stumble out from the gates, a group of hooded and robed Dreamers are there, waiting.

Great tendrils of Mist are thick all about them.

As the Mist swirls all about, thickening, a sense of great weariness and calm falls upon you.

The Dreamers wait, patiently, the torch light flickering in the gradually increasing mist.

As the mist thickens -

You hear the Dreamers speaking softly, "The Second Great Shrouding is finally upon us"

Your eyelids go heavy, and slowly, one by one, you each collapse into slumber.

Each of you, falling into a sleep......

he Dreamers move about you, lifting your sleeping bodies, placing them into the waiting wagons.

They carry your sleeping bodies to their sacred cave, along the shores of the Lake of Mist.

Its long intended purpose is finally ready to be fulfilled.

Elsewhere in Ymph, the mist thickens, but not all sleep as you do.

The Mist falls upon the Ziggurat of the Dominion, conquered by the Nightrisers, with only a few desperate survivors remaining in the Mythallar Chamber.

The Mist falls upon the Docks, as the false ilmateran Father Michael unveils his grand banners of Cyric upon the walls of the former Governor's Isle.

he Mist falls upon scattered exiles throughout the Island, as they desperately seek rurmored places of safety in the far eastern parts of the Island.

The Mist falls upon the Grand Master of the Numinous Order, bellowing commands from besieged Castle Blackhearth.

The Mist falls upon H'bala, her body damaged but soon to recover from her great fall, as she works on her powerful ritual and curse.

The Mist falls. For three years, Ymph is shrouded.

For three years, you slumber as the Island of Ymph changes outside of the safe confines of the Dreamer's cave.

And so concludes Chapter Two of EFU, "Escaped from Underdark: Archipelago"

This link from Revan and Egon may be an easier way to read about the last scene of EFU:A (https://efua.jottit.com/)