The First Land Herald/432-02-25

Article Number: 17

Dateline: 432-02-25

BARONIAL AUDIENCE: BRIDGE MATERIALS WANTED, PLANNED CRAFTING SOCIETIES, AND MORE Tonight, Baron Gyfford Theren held an audience in Theren Keep, where he heard petitioners. Included is a flattering painting of a ruggedly handsome Human man seated upon a throne, rendered in typical newspaper shades of grey. His chiseled jaw is set, pose regal and confident as he gazes ahead with both thoughtfulness and intensity. He is accompanied by a stalwart blonde Paladin, his gleaming plate etched with a charging lion over a crest. Words beneath read, "Baron Gyfford Theren and Marshal Amlach Urulokie of Therengia." The audience began with an announcement from Marshal Amlach. He gave thanks to all those who served in the battle against Maelshyve, both Therengians and others. Then he repeated Therengia's stance on Necromancy: "We will NEVER, NEVER accept the existence of Necromancers in Therengia. Not now, NOT EVER! So those of you that somehow thought His Grace had decided to welcome them, I can promise you, you're wrong." First called before the Baron was Sir Rekon, Council Leader of the Order of the Dragon Shield, who requested the Baron's support in an assault he intends to make on the Reshalian island belonging to the lich Jeihrem, may his flesh wither into dust and his despicable spirit be agonized by the Spiral. The Baron denied the request on the grounds that the Order of the Dragon Shield's sanction is in Riverhaven only, though he allowed that a private attempt may be made, one done outside the name of the Order. Akexon made a request for more crafting societies north of Lake Gwenalion, offering up the assistance of the Ranger and Paladin guilds in acquiring materials for building (though on what authority, I am uncertain). Baron Gyfford replied that there are several plans for building societies within Therenborough itself, though the timeline is uncertain. He said that his planned cathedral will make the local church obsolete, and thus the church would house these societies, though he noted that the Rangers would not prefer a city location and will take this into consideration. He mused on the possibility of dividing up the societies rather than placing them all within one building. Baron Gyfford announced that Lord Rossman has allocated much of the needed supplies for the bridge planned to replace the infamous rope bridge, but there may be a need for more. He said that, within the next day or two, anyone wishing to make a donation of lumber or stone may do so in bins available outside the gates of Rossman's Landing and Therenborough. He mentioned that the donations may take the form of "blocks, logs, lumber, and the like." He finished by saying, "Once Lord Rossman's workers get the stabilizing pillars built within the ravine, then we can finish up the rest of the work." Roodie, a Rakash, made a request for a sign at "the bin" location in Langenfirth, which would point the way to Siksraja, in a bid to inform the public of the town's location and drive more visitors. He also requested a permit to build a gathering hall in Siksraja itself, for the purpose of inviting non-Rakash to learn about Rakash ways. Baron Gyfford granted the request for the sign but denied that for the gathering hall, citing the long list of other important items on his agenda. High Quaestor Whiteburn of the Holy Inquisition spoke next. She spoke of her discovery of a cleansing ritual, for tomes in particular, which would "[strip] them of their profane remnant." She offered her services to the Baron and to those who serve him among Therengia's guard. "If there is any who requires the purification of any artifact, individual, or area, call upon me. I shall come and, by the Grace of Drogor, that which has been defiled shall be cleansed anon." Mother Whiteburn went on to suggest that the time is ripe for the restoration of the Zaulfung swamp. She requested the Baron's sanction in this task and the cooperation of his people. His Grace responded that he is hesitant to divert troops to the swamp with the current orc menace, but gave his blessing to any who chose to assist her, warning them to be aware of the threats currently faced in Therengia. Archwizard Perune offered thanks to the Baron and Therengians who aided in the battle against Maelshyve, in particular calling out the efforts of the military advisor, Rairken, and the Order of the Dragon Shield for their generosity in allowing planning meetings to take place in their headquarters. Baron Gyfford replied, "Your words bring honor to those who serve. Not just here, to all those who served in the fight." Gwenddolyn, Speaker of the Order of the White Rose, spoke next. She invited everyone to a rose and ruby themed masquerade ball, to take place in a month's time. She said it is to remember loved ones, but also to relax and socialize. The Tavern Troupe will be performing, and there will be prizes for best dressed and best dancer. Baron Gyfford thanked her for the invitation and also reminded the audience that there will be a Paladin-themed play in a week's time, organized by Ruea. Ruea elaborated, "The play will explore some of the history of the Paladin Guild, with a focus on its tenets, the honor and tradition surrounding it, and the importance of its role in the many battles of Elanthia." Lunarian Marcul came to the floor to represent a small collection of mages looking to restore the Emperor's Eye telescope in Throne City, and he sought the Baron's blessing for the project. The viewing platform is currently blocked, and he hopes to enlist craftsmen to restore it. Baron Gyfford said that it would be a joint effort with Throne City and "the guild" — presumably the Moon Mages. He offered to send word to those in charge but mentioned again the high number of projects he is working on. However, he thinks that perhaps those in Throne City could help. Holy Soldier Tankata stepped forward last. He wished to inform all present that, although now a citizen of Ilithi, he was once a member of the Theren Guard and considers himself still a servant of Therengia. He also offered himself as a soldier in battles abroad, such as that called for by Sir Rekon. I spoke privately with some members of the Theren Court in order to obtain their statements as well. Father Liurilias informed me that tonight he officially retired from his position as Court Cleric, now liberated from the burdens of politics. He spent many years providing excellent holy service to His Grace, and I hope he enjoys his newfound freedom. Military Advisor Rairken had a declaration he wished to make: "I want to say as the military advisor that Therengians need not fear from any Necromancy in the lands. And that the light will prevail to outshine that which is dark and sinuous. The people need to gather and be social with one another to help complete this task. As I will be making it my priority to protect all the people. And the people of Rossman's have waited long enough to avenge the women and children against Viggu." Good night, Therengia, and good luck with your many projects. Zoluren is, as ever, your ally. Navesi Daerthon True Bard, Zoluren's Herald Editor in Chief of the First Land Herald

Real Date: Unknown Date

Subject(s): Amlach Drogor Elanthia Gyfford Ilithi Jeihrem Langenfirth Maelshyve Moon Mage Necromancer Nicoly Orc Order of the Dragon Shield Order of the White Rose Paladin Rakash Ranger Riverhaven Rossman's Landing Ruea Siksraja Tavern Troupe Therenborough Therengia Theren Guard Theren Keep Throne City Zaulfung Viggu

Author(s): Navesi