The First Land Herald

The First Land Herald is a publication dedicated to the current events of Zoluren; "Zohlu Ren" is Gamgweth for First Land. When possible, the Herald may also report on other events throughout Kermoria. Disclaimer: All articles are written by players and submitted to a GM before being published in game. Articles are written In Character and represent the PC author's interpretation of events.

Editor in Chief: Navesi Daerthon
Reporter: Shaylynne Kendialahle
Occasional Reporter: Saragos Daerthon

Publication In Game

The Herald now offers newsletters exclusively IN GAME FIRST for at least one week -- possibly longer. Articles will not be available on elanthipedia until this waiting period is over. Thus if you want to be sure to read the news and get it as it happens, head to one of the imp locations in game.

• For updates when an article is published in game, follow @Dragonrealms on Twitter.
• For updates when an article is archived here on elanthipedia, follow @FirstLandHerald.

Locations

The Herald is proud to be partnered with the imps of Elanthia! Copies of the latest edition can be obtained from news stands manned by imps. Visit and GET NEWS for 50 coppers. Currently located at most docks, and a few other places.

In Genie, the following #goto commands work if you're on a map with a news stand:

• #goto newspaper
• #goto news stand
• #goto First Land Herald
• #goto Herald

Room Title	Description	Genie Zone	Genie Room	Lich Room
The Crossing, Hodierna Way	east of bank	1	160	731
The Crossing Docks, South End	Skirr'lo'lasu dock	1	169	937
The Crossing, Alfren's Ferry	ferry dock	1	236	957
Riverhaven, Town Square	town square	30	8	389
Riverhaven, East Pier	Lybadel and Kree'la dock	30	104	471
Langenfirth, Wharf	barge dock	40	36	3434
Therenborough, Horseman's Run	one north of gate	42	3	3162
Shard, Moonstone Street	just outside bank	67	81	2512
Ratha, Port Walk	outside Neh dock	90	4
Uaro Dock, Port of Ratha	Night Sky dock	90	234
Uasin Dock, Port of Ratha	Tasia'zaul dock	90	262
Mer'Kresh, The Galley Dock	galley dock	107	113
Fang Cove, Walkway	just outside bank	150	10
Outer Hibarnhvidar, Market Road	outside The Singing Raven	116	13
Aesry Surlaenis'a (TBD)	by the Crystal Wave	99

• Outside the Muspar'i Trader Guildhall is a tall S'Kra Mur that does also sell newssheets, however as of August 2020, it was selling the (quite old) The Therengia Herald.

Latest Issues

438-01-26 - CHARITY BALL INTERRUPTED BY POISON, DEFENESTRATION

See the imps in game to obtain this article.

438-01-15 - CREEPING ICHOR AND BONE CREATURES ATTACK THE CROSSING

Tonight, a brackish ichor was seen creeping upward from the floor of the Empath guild in the Crossing. Those it touched were severely injured, flesh dissolving as if by acid, and if allowed to continue to creep across the person, it could quickly kill. Covering the ground as it did, it tended to first creep up the legs before making its way to the torso, where it would swiftly become deadly.

Aislynn informed me that Damiza had told her rubbing holy water on oneself would remove the ichor, though do keep in mind the second-hand nature of this information. Holy water can be easily obtained in many places, most notably in the Crossing High Temple and the Riverhaven Temple. It is my recommendation to carry a chalice or vial of it with you at all times.

The ichor was accompanied by an invasion of bone wyverns and bone amalgams, both Necromantic creatures created from bones and rotting flesh. With the aid of our Therengian allies, we were able to easily destroy these unholy monstrosities, though some of us did fall to the ichor before our valiant Empaths developed a strategy to mitigate it.

I must note the timing of this disgusting and foul attack, coinciding with our preparations to assault the Lich Jeihrem, may his skin boil away like liquid on the stones of a Musparan oven. I will be watching closely to determine if this ichor has something to do with the "[binding of] his blood" to the Crossing, as told to us by our ally, the Purified Scholar Zauldin.

I will pray now for the sanctity and protection of our Immortal patrons.

In the name of the Thirteen,

Navesi Daerthon
True Bard, Zoluren's Herald
Editor in Chief of the First Land Herald

437-10-30 - BASALT ISLE EVACUATION LARGELY SUCCEEDS

The mission to evacuate villagers from Jeihrem's Barrow on Basalt Isle ended with mixed, mostly positive results. Several villagers were rescued, with minimal casualties among our fighters, but some villagers were killed on the isle, and the dreaded Sivroch the Mysteriarch took a few swipes at us.

The now quite large force calling itself the Coalition Against the Lich first gathered upon Ratha, then split into three main groups, led by Mazrian, Sir Kenamer, and Sir Madigan. A gate to Basalt Isle was opened from Ratha, and two banners were set up there, surrounding the gate into Jeihrem's Barrow. We prepared a safe space on Ratha to use as triage, which I will refrain from naming.

All three groups went to the Isle at first, and we were met by several Necromancers just inside the gate, who did their usual taunting. Again they were led by the Demonic Nefis, and the familiar married witches Zehira and Agalea were there, along with the Reaver Kretona and the skull-faced Nuzack. I spotted one more whom I had hoped had returned to the Immortals. I pray that I was mistaken that he stood with these forsaken ones. He must know that should I see him with them again, his name will be written along with the others.

My mind filled with laughter suddenly, and I heard a loud feminine voice saying, "Really, such simple magics, and here? Of all places, here?" Our banner was then shredded, and we faced the Necromancers in battle, handily defeating them.

We called out to the villagers, inviting them to flee that wretched place. After some time, several arrived, looking panicked. Sir Madigan's group stepped back through a gate to Ratha to help escort them, while Sir Kenamer's group roamed the village trying to draw out enemies, and Mazrian's held the gate on the Basalt Isle side. I saw two villagers make it through the moongate to Ratha myself, saw two head in that direction, with one confirmed through by Angel, and saw one, unfortunately, get torn apart by banyakeas. Saragos was also approached by a calm villager, who ran up to him and exploded, killing him instantly. Thanks be to Chadatru for His favor upon him, for he returned to us.

Those villagers that I saw to safety ran off before we could offer to aid them further, perhaps too shaken by their experience, though one did call out in thanks. I have included sketches of them, and if any should see them, know that I am interested in connecting with them so that we can ensure they receive Empathic healing and a proper set up in their new home.

[Included are four sketches of men and women wearing the typically drab apparel of common folk used to hard living. Their faces are somewhat difficult to identify given that they are all rendered in various states of screaming and panic.]

Sivroch was spotted several times in the air and a few times on the ground. I was not present for the ground sightings, but Sir Tankata told me that he was torn in two by her at one point, thank the gods for his resurrection, and Father Rakkor was cut severely in the neck but otherwise not much injured.

After some time on the isle, a villager warned that the banyakea were coming, and we heard again the feminine voice: "Now's your chance. A few souls have fled. Do you want to see what happens to those who remain?" Most of us left then, though a few may have remained, perhaps with more bravery than sense.

Ultimately, several lives were saved today, of those who otherwise were almost certainly doomed to death or, worse, some form of subservience to the Lich, may his teeth rot and disintegrate until he must gum his foul lip service to his demon masters. We have done what we can to protect those who would otherwise be trampled between us. Let it be known that when next we visit the dread Isle, we will be coming in force.

One final piece of good news before I part, dear reader. The Lady of Elamiri, Ayrell, reached out to me to report that Ilithi is now officially offering support to our coalition, in addition to Zoluren and Therengia. She wrote that the words of the Sentinel Captain Cierzen were, "Certainly you have the Tower's support in the matter. It's not a complicated or nuanced decision when it comes to one so twisted and perverse, by all accounts." Naturally, the bulk of the planning and execution will still fall to House Moglin, but nonetheless I am heartened by the growing acknowledgment that this Lich must not be suffered to exist. Citizens of Ilithi, stand with your leaders and join us!

In solidarity,

Navesi Daerthon
True Bard, Zoluren's Herald
Editor in Chief of the First Land Herald

437-09-01 - EMERALD TEMPLAR ATTENDS VISION MEETING ILITHI

I received a report from Lasaia that at the recent Visions meeting in Shard, hosted by Visionist Miskton, two visitors of note were in attendance. The first was an Emerald Templar named Geshia Falasturi, an Elven Paladin who serves at the Dark Hand. The second was Ankoere Valdish, the brother of the late Dehvra, a Trader gruesomely executed for violating the terms of the pact with the Arbiter (see the First Land Herald story from 428-08-02).

Miskton shared a disturbing description with the group:

“A man dressed in fine silk robes and expensive jewelry stood in the center of an immaculately manicured courtyard. Spectacular flowers blossomed under the starlight, a fountain burbled peacefully, and brilliant red and white koi lazily swam back and forth. The man produced a clear tessera, which began to unfurl. The man paused a moment, listening to the tessera, and nodded in acceptance.

The tessera briefly chimed and the man gasped in surprise. Eyes wide, he gazed at the night sky, his pupils shrinking to pinpoints, and his body began to glow with starlight.

After some time, the night sky began to soften, the dull grey of dawn peeking over the horizon. The man squinted, and recoiled in pain, his skin beginning to burn. He quickly ran inside, and the vision faded.”

The vivid description of this vision led to talks between Ankoere, Lasaia, and others of the crystalline implants which Traders have the option to receive, somehow enhancing their connection to the starlight while enriching certain spells and abilities. Further discussion turned to the boundaries of the contract and whether the guild members would be able to research to discover more about this vision, and if they even had enough control over their powers to do anything about it.

Visionist Miskton moved onto the other visions such as recent happenings in the islands and the Zengmodaleth, most of which have already transpired.

The final ominous visions appeared to involve activity in the Dark Hand south of Shard. Geshia spoke up after Miskton relayed the following:

He found himself walking in a humid swamp, the scent of rot and decay a choking miasma. The sounds of wild animals could be heard all around him, a chorus of hooting and growling, but he could not see signs of any life larger than stinging insects and the occasional ripples across the water. Far behind him, a large wall could be seen, torches dotting the ramparts at regular intervals. He continued into the wilds.

After some time, he came to a somewhat elevated clearing with a single tent staked into the muddy ground. Though the canvas was torn, the remains still stood. Loud snorting and muttering could be heard from within, and as he peered into the rent fabric, he saw a half-naked figure covered in mud carving ordered lines into its arm and shoulder with a rusty knife. Chanting in guttural gibberish, the figure giggled and cried and shouted at the unseen. Suddenly wheeling around, the figure saw him watching, and with a yowl of anger rushed forward. The vision faded.

And another:

He found himself walking along the ramparts of a large wall, the dark night covering a trackless, swampy forest of rot and twisted trees spanning to the south. Periodic torches betrayed the presence of siege engines, thick timbered ballistae and trebuchets built into the stone, well provisioned with iron-tipped bolts half a dozen spans in length and oiled clay boulders. The sounds of wild animals could be heard in the distance until a chorus of hooting and growling was suddenly choked off.

Beyond the marsh to the south, a series of fires flashed to light and arced wildly upward, soaring into the sky in brilliant streaks, and screaming as they began to drop toward him. As they flew, they fragmented and pummeled the wall around me to little effect. Looking down, he realized the flaming projectiles were the severed heads of woodland beasts, flesh burnt and peeled back around blackened teeth. More fires lit in the distance, and the vision faded.

Geshia informed Miskton their Commander had received his message about the visions and agreed the area described does sound similar to the Dark Hand. Geshia added that while the battle is always endless, “there had been recent surges of activity. Sounds. Movement. And attacks at times of course."

Geshia assured Miskton his forewarning was appreciated, and should the visions be true that if an unusual assault at the wall is imminent, she would appreciate the call to arms to aid the Emerald Knights.

Sincerely,

Shaylynne Kendialahle
Reporter of the First Land Herald

437-09-10 - CUSTODIANS ARE EVOLVING, SLIP RESTRAINTS AND INVADE AGAIN

Amidst everything else that is happening lately, the voltaic custodians returned recently, and, what's more, appear to have been upgraded. (See the article from 437-08-17 for more on the custodians.)

I heard an outcry on the gweth from Scholar of the Grove Uryutis, who thought suddenly, "Something is wrong! Brace yourselves!" This was followed immediately by an invasion of the unstable voltaic custodians and lightning selreks in the Crossing. Uryutis went on to tell us that the custodians had "slipped a restraint" and are now "slightly more capable," having "improved themselves."

The creatures proved little difficulty in such small numbers, and once they were dispatched, several of us made our way to the Zengmodaleth to discuss further with Uryutis. He had much to share with us.

"The custodians remake themselves from a template, a mold of sort. It's a complex mold, but they shouldn't be fiddling with it. But, some adjustment was made. They're very slightly more capable than they used to be. I'm not sure how to quantify it exactly, but examining their patterns, it's a little faster and stronger? But some of their prime functionality appears slightly more independent? They've looped around a number of primary checks." When I asked about intelligence, he said, "They may be slightly more adaptable now."

I also asked what he meant about "looping around." He said, "They follow instructions, and have complex logical capacities for adaptation. But it's still set instructions. Ask them the right question or place a specific task before them, and they'd get stuck. I'm not sure those same tricks would work now."

Saragos was particularly concerned about the danger the custodians posed to the populace. He wanted to know if in some way these attacks were our fault for opening the portal and pointed out that the Profane have been spreading propaganda about the portal in order to distract from the focus on the Lich Jeihrem, may his liver shrivel into dust and empty him of passion and joy.

Uryutis pointed out first that, "The portal isn't their sole means of entry to the Plane of Abiding... They're getting into the Plane of Abiding because the Plane of Abiding is, generally speaking, chock full of gaps and holes and weak spots that anything with an iota of motivation can force its way through... I understand your concern, and the track record so far for seeing these is alarming. But they're just things. Complicated things, worth studying, and being careful around certainly. But they aren't taking over cities any time soon."

Importantly, he finished, "You lot are not responsible for this. You set it into motion by gathering Daervlan's attention, but I just can't imagine comparing this to the Lich. It's preposterous... [The Profane is] the wolf telling the sheep the real threat is the rabbits digging holes under the field. Sure, sometimes you trip if you don't watch your step, but the rabbit doesn't want to eat the sheep."

"Access to this place, and maybe eventually its secrets may have forever eluded elemental scholars if you had not conducted your experiments. Which is unbelievably different from, 'This is no different than a Lich who comports with demons.' Stars above, what is wrong with some people."

We continued discussing with him various possibilities for experiments to understand the custodians and selreks. We wondered if their language might be one of lightning, if a ward could contain the errant ones, or if simply observing them at their work might bear some fruit. We pondered over the shape that the selreks take, which is invariably Elanthian and Kaldaroid. The one that I saw took the form of a skeletally thin Elf.

Of some additional interest is the crystallized lightning I was able to obtain from one of the selreks. I noticed that the internal crystalline filaments seem to slowly rearrange, periodically stuttering and dimming as they draw near to a hairline fracture that runs through the stone's structure. This movement within the lightning may have something to do with the selrek's fundamental nature or intelligence.

Overall, there are many possible avenues for study, and we must begin further discussions and plans to learn what we can of Daervlan's puzzle.

Perhaps on a related note, tonight I was giving a lecture on the Elemental Experiments and the Zengmodaleth at the Bards' guild in the Crossing when an attempt on my life was made by Dragon Priest assassins. A poison-tipped bolt grazed my abdomen, and the room was suddenly flooded with the assassins, which we handily dispatched. Whether the Dragon Priests have an interest in this subject in particular or just in myself will remain to be seen.

Stay grounded,

Navesi Daerthon
True Bard, Zoluren's Herald
Editor in Chief of the First Land Herald

437-09-02 - NEFIS BURNS RATHA, SIVROCH ATTACKS MINDS

The Profane Herald Nefis recently made good on his previous ultimatum to the city of Ratha. In my article from 437-08-18, I wrote of how he demanded that Ratha deliver Sir Khoheke to him and cease the campaign against the Lich Jeihrem, may his eyes melt when he gazes upon the glorious light of the Immortals.

Well, he returned, insisting that the time he offered was up and pressing the city over the gweth to present him with a decision. No one from Ratha deigned to acknowledge the servant of Demons. He responded by sending his minions to burn the city and its fields and to engage those brave adventurers who arrived to defend it. Once again, a horrific swarm of mutilated creatures descended from the sky, many-armed monsters I have learned are called banyakea.

Unfortunately for those of us defending, as we engaged the multitudes of banyakea, we were set upon by these minions of Nefis, led by the Demonic one himself. Far more appeared than had previously shown themselves, and with the chaos of the creature swarm, many of us fell to those bonded to darkness. I did not recognize many of the faces, but my heart sank when I saw some Paladins among them. They are not entirely Necromancers. Anyone may work for evil.

During the battle, I heard cries over the gwethdesuan about fires breaking out all over the city. The fields, docks, lower bank, Carousel Square, and fish buyer were all named as targets, though fortunately I heard Lasaia call out that she and others were putting them out.

I won't lie. We were battered by the attackers, beaten soundly. With their new members, the banyakeas, the ambush, and their coordination, we were simply outmaneuvered. But it was one battle, and we will be back to win the war.

At the end, House Moglin came to the rescue again, as I saw a ship with their insignia near the docks. From the harbor, streaks of radiant fire cut through the night sky, reflecting off of the water as they tore through the swarm of banyakea. Matching the intensity of the fire, elementalists on deck used the wind to cause the massive swarm to scatter, calling lightning through the horde of banyakea. It was a beautiful sight. Though I grieved at the sight of smoke curling above the city, Ratha will recover.

We were granted some reprieve of a few andaen, much needed rest, but it was not to last long. Tonight I heard the cries over the gwethdesuan that banyakeas were attacking Riverhaven. I even heard the intense, vile thoughts that I knew instantly came from Sivroch herself, the she-devil who stands just below the evil Lich. She said, "What delightful chaos they cause," and "You think these mine? Lord Jeihrem's spare parts fill your cities with terror."

Many of us rushed to Riverhaven to dispatch the creatures, which proved to be light in number. However, the true threat was the fell witch. Suddenly, I heard her deafening laughter in my mind. I smelled the scents of pine and cooked chicken, and I felt the horrific sensation of her searching through my memories. I saw her, vile and snarling, reach for me — and everything abruptly returned to normal. I later discovered that she also visited the minds of Saragos, Mazrian, Sir Nanakii, and Sir Madigan. Perhaps there were others I did not find. Each smelled something different, but otherwise experienced the same as I.

I will render for you the face that I saw. Remember it well as the face of evil, the face of our foe.

[Included is an ink drawing of a horrifying creature resembling an enormous, antlered, dark fae, complete with four insectile wings. Five gleaming eyes are set in a smooth head bearing a majestic set of ribbed black antlers, black lips stretched over wide mandibles. Thick, bark-like skin is swirled and mottled, etched with a series of scarred and inked sigils. A smaller, well-articulated third arm extends from her left side, sprouting wickedly barbed leaves and terminating in a pointed stake. Her knees bend backwards and her legs terminate in clawed feet, one ankle bearing an anklet of thick iron. A cloak of flowing ichor billows around her.]

We must confront the chilling notion that she wanted us in Riverhaven, drew us there purposefully, in order to delve so offensively into our minds.

We will continue to prepare. Reach out to Sir Kenamer, Dantia, Sir Erieck, Saragos, Mazrian, or myself. Join us, join House Moglin, Zoluren, and Therengia, in our quest to end this witch and her malevolent master.

In righteousness,

Navesi Daerthon
True Bard, Zoluren's Herald
Editor in Chief of the First Land Herald

437-08-18 - THE PERVERSE GRANDSTAND, ZOLUREN AND THERENGIA PLEDGE TO AID MOGLIN

The Nefarious Arcanist Nefis made an appearance yesterday on the gweth, purportedly to "make an offer" to the people of Ratha. Naturally, his message was instead a clear threat, one that was immediately followed by a literal storm of undead descending upon the island city from the sky.

Although his aim was clearly to cast doubt upon the noble House Moglin and Commodore Khoheke, ultimately the Necromancer laced his words with promises that the Lich Jeihrem, may his innards churn with grave worms that devour him from the inside, possessed the capability to attack in force and would indeed do so.

"It will be your sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, fathers and mothers, that will suffer the consequences of these actions," Nefis promised. "I remind you of the last war with a Lich, some 40 years ago." He spoke, of course, of the Devourer Lyras, who ravaged the five provinces and cost us a full third of our people, many of whom were raised against us in her undead army. His paltry "offer" was that if Ratha would "deliver Khoheke" and refuse to fight against the Lich that Jeihrem "may have mercy."

What a generous offer, don't you think, dear reader? All we must do is lay down our arms and live under the thumb of this Lich lord. If we allow him to make all the choices and have all the power, he may choose to let us live!

As Saragos put it, "Understood. You demand that we all wait quietly for our turn to be eaten. Loud and clear, words marked."

Immediately after Nefis issued his ultimatum, the people on Ratha heard a dull droning from offshore, which began to amplify until it reached a deafening volume. A cloud was spotted, gathering, extending tendrils, appendages reaching, as it moved toward the shoreline. A wretched stench wafted from the ocean.

Suddenly, creatures resembling large locusts descended from the sky in numbers, superfluous limbs contorting at unnatural angles, fingers ending in chitinous talons. Their gazes were vacant, heads lurching unnaturally, as they made their screeching call. Other robed figures followed them, pulling away from the swarm that they came from. These terribly mutilated creatures appeared to be once humanoid, but bore additional limbs grafted onto their bodies.

After a feverish fight led by Sir Madigan of Therengia, a ship appeared in the distance bearing the standard of House Moglin, and it fired a salvo of grapeshot into the hovering cloud. A single figure could be seen on the prow, arms raised, as a brilliant disc of light coalesced in front of it, spinning rapidly. After a long moment, the disc erupted outward, streaking through the cloud and dispersing it entirely!

It is no stretch to connect the descent of this swarm with the threat delivered by the Necromancer, but the Perverse confirmed it, one of them referring to them as "our Lord's creatures."

Not to be left out, the pandering Pirate Srinoja was also heard on the gweth, at first gloating about raiding Aesry Surlaenis'a, later commenting about the "unusual out-of-towners" coming to Ratha "as dinner guests" before leaving to "count [her] earnings." She once again proved how little she cares if innocent people are felled as fodder to the Lich, so long as she gets her coin.

The people of Ratha are no fools, this I know. I am certain they will not cower in the face of these threats. But perhaps this next bit of news will hearten them nonetheless: Zoluren and Therengia have pledged to aid House Moglin against the Lich. I spoke with Seneschal Liev of Zoluren myself, who came to me as a representative of our own Prince Belirendrick. He said, "We are, of course, letting Moglin run the show. But… His Highness is offering his full support to House Moglin for whatever they require." We spoke of ships, sharing of intelligence, and potential resources for commanders.

Furthermore, I received a letter from Sir Kenamer of Therengia, Vice Speaker of the Order of the Dragon Shield. It read as follows: "In a recent meeting with Therengian Order officials, Lord Marshal Amlach stated that Baron Gyfford Theren has approved the support of House Moglin by providing naval forces to assist in the taking of the Basalt Isle. These forces will be led by House Rethlon and House Ananthor, two of the most powerful and battle hardened houses Theren has to offer."

Anyone loyal to Zoluren or Therengia, I urge you to join the effort now. Reach out to Saragos, myself, Sir Kenamer, Dantia, or Sir Erieck. It is not too late, and every sword is useful, every spell, every bandage.

Clearly, the Lich is not harmless, as his display yesterday proves. Yet another argument often made by his minions is that he would be content to sit alone on his island if not provoked. There is one further bit of news I will share with you, dear reader. I have learned from the Purified Soul, Zauldin, that when Jeihrem stormed the Crossing some years ago, he "[bound] his blood to its streets." When I pressed him on it further, he said, "I don't believe I am really able to say much more. I don't recall the details, other than Osven noting that when Jeihrem fell, he had not lost. Something about spreading his influence, or anchoring himself, or driving a wedge." I further learned directly from a Philosopher that Jeihrem sends his minions to perform dark rituals throughout the provinces in order to further this influence and, chillingly, erode the influence of the Immortals.

Your secret is out, Lich. We know that you are gathering power, and we will not allow it.

Navesi Daerthon
True Bard, Zoluren's Herald
Editor in Chief of the First Land Herald

[Some distance below the end of the article is a curious image, penned in black ink. It depicts a hideously grinning figure, face melting in a grotesque display of wilted flesh, his arms spread wide as he stands upon a miniature rocky island nestled in the Reshal Sea. Beneath him, tendrils of darkness spread like roots of ropy flesh, connecting him to each of the five provinces, one particularly fat link attached directly to the Crossing. Standing within the provinces of Zoluren and Therengia are two handsome, crowned men, each appearing to shine, depicted by striated pen lines streaking all around them. They point their swords at the Lich.]

437-08-17 - LIGHTNING CREATURES STRIKE, NEW AREA OF ZENGMODALETH REVEALED

Recently the air crackled with static, massive cubes of lightning spiraling off and rejoining each other across the sky. The storm fell first on the Crossing, unstable voltaic custodians leaping into existence with a loud snap. These strange creatures, walking on jagged stilts of electricity, appeared to be intricately constructed orichalcum coils, each suspended within a beryl-hued ball lightning. Transient, arcing "limbs" continuously sprouted or blew away as they seemed needed. When they fell, from their cores sometimes sprang lightning selreks: crackling masses of solidified power, bound into something like the shape of an androgynous, skeletally thin Elf with lurid carmine eyes and carrying blazing whips of electrical filaments. Other times, these selreks seemed to appear from condensed energies converging across the ground.

They were all decidedly hostile. Blasts of prehensile electricity arced toward us in bursts from the custodians. The selreks roared with voices of thunder, sending storms of living, viperous lighting toward their targets. Perhaps most startling, several times I saw a selrek grow in size, and suddenly objects, debris, and people began to take flight! Many came careening into view from as much as a block away. My Warrior Mage allies made murmurs of Grounding Field, but I believe that I saw one selrek strip that ward away, too, as if knowing its own weakness. It was difficult to tell for certain in the chaos.

Frustratingly, I found that my most powerful area spells did very little to them. It felt as though strange magnetic forces were somehow repelling the spells. Fortunately, my axe worked well enough. I did not have time to experiment much myself, but I was told that single target targeted magic spells tended to get through the magnetic force well enough.

Once stilled, the custodians left behind bits of crystallized lightning, jagged stone fragments, and slagged ilmenite cores. Curiously, I saw some adventurers bending over them and harvesting what I can only describe as static fibers.

After the fighting was finished, many adventurers paid a visit to Grove Scholar Uryutis in the Zengmodaleth, which can be accessed via a ring-shaped portal on the Handsome Plateau west of Therenborough. What follows is an account given to me by Miskton and Saragos, who attended.

Of greatest note, it was apparent that there is a new orb within the Zengmodaleth, crackling with blue and green swirled lightning. When approached, it unfurls into a net of lightning that binds and transports the approacher at great speed along a seemingly endless column of blinding energy. Upon arrival, one sees what has been dubbed a plasma vortex caged by four large pylons, and across a precarious bridge, there is a building that contains voltaic custodians, who are apparently hard at work harvesting static fibers, overseeing furnaces, and otherwise tending to esoteric machinery. I encourage all readers to make a circuit of the place and see for yourselves, because words and images alone cannot do it justice.

[Included is a series of sketches depicting the numerous curiosities and machines mentioned in the article, from a caged sphere lashing with lightning tendrils against four curved pylons, to a line of custodians dutifully attending to an intricate loom and an array of glowing furnaces, to shelves of perfect geometric forms bound in silvery fibers.]

Uryutis had a number of enlightening comments to make, although, as is often the case with such new discoveries, adventurers left with more questions than answers. He spoke first of the Lord of the Void, Daervlan, the latest in the millennia-old line of elusive Elementalists who claim authority over Elemental magic and are thought to spend the majority of their time outside the Plane of Abiding. "It was not you lot who broke [this]... Daervlan has been working, and things have been breaking. I'm not privy to these conversations, but something is wrong with his domain... The custodians that tore their way across the lands just now were some kind of empowered variety. I am not sure if the selreks broke them further or used them for a ride. But this was a fairly large failure, which likely explains why so many worked through."

"The custodians in the workshop are a more mundane variety. Not to be taken lightly, very capable workers, but not quite as unlimited." Of some note, they are also malfunctioning still, and quite hostile at the moment. Uryutis described their malfunctioning as being very strange, too. "It's a bit like picking up a pair of tongs and finding they're now a crossbow, but the crossbow doesn't fire, it actually bakes bread." He added, "I do not know what they were making before those custodians were tasked with whatever it is they're doing in that workshop. I imagine there are custodians elsewhere that are working fine, and others that have failed even worse."

Thanks to the astute questioning of the adventurers present, Uryutis expanded on the nature of both the custodians and the selreks. It seems the selreks have life essence, while the custodians do not. "They are alive in their own way. It is somewhat complicated, I admit. I have not studied it at length myself as forms of Elemental life are not my specialty."

In addition, it appears that the custodians were in the Plane long before Daervlan or any Lord of the Void. "The workshops have changed, the projects tweaked. Each Lord of the Void has their own obsessions. But the custodians were here before they were." He clarified that though the custodians predate Daervlan, they do answer to him, and, for example, are likely taking the electroweave cloth — the product of weaving those static fibers in a great loom — to a place that Daervlan decreed. "One theory is the goals of the custodians and the goals of the Lord of the Void align. Another is that the Lord of the Void knows how to control them, though that might not be entirely accurate."

The consciousness of the custodians is, Uryutis said, "Topic of much debate. They're advanced. Very advanced. I don't think they're conscious, but it can be difficult to pin down exactly how they're not. And I certainly wouldn't call them inferior."

"One thing I want to emphasize is that Daervlan has allowed access to that space for a reason... [He] wants you to see and understand something. I would consider this an ongoing test. I truly do not believe Daervlan to be a malicious man, and I hold his motives to be good. But he is tasked with something far greater than any of us can understand... The workshop only has lesser custodians. I know there are more things here. But for now, this is what Daervlan wants you to see."

Finally, I would like to share with you a vision that was brought up to me by both Miskton and Saragos, which seems to clearly relate to the current situation. As written by the visionist:

"My mouth fills with the taste of copper, and I see a tall figure bent over a metallic table fiddling with a sphere composed of interlocking components. Hands held slightly apart, the figure seems to concentrate on the sphere, and with a faint crackle, energies coursing along the various parts, the sphere rises. Spinning rapidly, the sphere all but disappears in a haze of streamer discharge, and the figure nods in approval.

Suddenly, a loud *ping!* comes from the sphere, and it begins to shed components in all directions. The figure calmly waves a hand, erecting a shimmering barrier enclosure that flares as it catches each rapidly flung piece. As the figure stands and turns to walk away from the still catastrophically disassembling sphere, I catch a glimpse of his face, his lips and fists clenched in frustration, and the vision fades."

All pieces of a puzzle, it seems, one charged to us by a most mysterious and absent Lord. Will it spark the interest of the people? Will we even discover what the current test is, exactly, or remain confused? What other shocking discoveries might we make along the way, and what resistance might we meet? One thing I am positive of: Those of us with Elemental interest will put the collective power of our minds to this task.

My skin tingles with anticipation.

Stay grounded,

Navesi Daerthon
True Bard, Zoluren's Herald
Editor in Chief of the First Land Herald

437-06-30 - SRINOJA SABOTAGES NEGOTIATIONS, SETS FIRE TO KYGAR'S PUB

Dear reader, it is with a heavy heart that I tell you of the chaos and destruction caused by the Pirate Srinoja. Although the diplomatic team composed of Ayrell, Ezerak, Qiyan, and Saragos were initially hopeful that a deal might be struck between the pirate captain and Commodore Khoheke of House Moglin, the Gnomish woman's staunch refusal was layered with murderous intent, which ultimately exploded, quite literally, into an all-out melee.

The meeting began peacefully, under the Banner of Truce. The diplomatic team agreed to speak with Commodore Khoheke before an audience of some few dozen adventurers. Saragos laid out the majority of their proposal, which was largely that, although Srinoja's initial demands were outrageous, perhaps the Commodore might consider a lesser offer: "A pardon for past crimes of the pirates who choose to work for you, and honest pay as privateers working for Moglin. A chance to leave that life behind for a respectable one, if they're up for it. Perhaps if some of their ships are in your hands, those could be returned to service. An exchange of crew to work together and learn each others' ways."

Commodore Khoheke was naturally skeptical. He said, "We would obviously prefer not to fight two enemies at the same time. But I do not believe the pirates will stop pointing their swords at us. If anything, they will likely be drawn to the carnage as vultures to the battlefield. Though our priority is the growing power of the lich, House Moglin cannot simply ignore the sharks drawn to its blood in the water."

Saragos, to his credit, made a truly impassioned plea. "I want to get every mortal we can possibly get to land on that Isle and assault the Perverse and Demonic, and not waste them dying at sea to other mortals." He likened the pirates to potential wolfhounds, to be "tamed" just enough to use against our enemies.

The Commodore remained skeptical, and just then Srinoja showed up, so he offered to hear her out. Saragos laid out the proposal to her. "Think on it for a moment. Real pay. The chance not to look over your shoulder for the rest of your life. Is this a point we can start from?"

However, the scoundrel Srinoja had no interest in an honest wage. "My folks are used to getting paid a lot more than her (sic) folks, I'm afraid. We work on share, not for coppers." Ultimately, although Saragos even bent to kneel before her and plead directly for her to give a deal real thought, she refused, sticking to her original shocking demands, including pardons for future crimes. "We aren't liking deadmans, but he don't leave his island much anyway. Way I see it, he's stuck on his island, and the only thing you need from us is not to sink your ships on the way. So, tell you what. Final offer. We get pardons for all past, present, and future crimes you might accuse us of. You keep your fleet out of all independent ports. And we agree to not sink your magic wand ship on the way -- pinkie swear. What do you say? Deal, or do you want to be the one to tell your new friends you're going to choose to risk their lives for yer pride?"

Commodore Khoheke, understandably, refused to offer her free reign to attack him and his House without retaliation.

It was at this point that I noticed a pale Rakash man, later positively identified as Khearkrash, along with another person still unidentified, fiddling with a lantern nearby. Soon it toppled free from its base, connecting with a cask of brandy brought by Srinoja. Flaming oil trickled everywhere, lighting an enormous blaze! The Gnomish cur took advantage of the chaos, pulling a cloth over her mouth and retreating to one side. She gestured to a rope atop the remains of the cask, shouting, "Commodore's yours, folk. Get him."

Suddenly, my head was ringing, and I realized I was knocked clear by an explosive blast. The cask had blown up! Amidst the smoke and commotion, I managed to spot the tiny Srinoja kneeling over Khoheke's prone figure, procuring a key ring from his gamantang. "Aren't personal, to you folk. We be leaving as friends, except me and the Commodore." She spit in Khoheke's face and was gone.

Pirates flooded in. And Necromancers, including Nefis, Agalea, Zehira, and the still unidentified Necromancer from the previous diplomatic mission to Srinoja's ship. What followed was an all-out, three-way brawl between those two groups and those following and protecting Khoheke, with Khearkrash joining the Necromancers. Gouts of acid brutalized those shocked by the unprecedented ambush. Eventually, however, the pirates and some of the Necromancers fell, and the adventurers managed to whisk Khoheke away to safety.

Later, I was informed that, while on its journey home, Sir Madigan's ship, the Dragon's Slave, was ambushed by a lone S'Kra Mur identified as Cined. This Mur used stealth in an odious and savage attack that ultimately murdered eight of the fourteen present. In particular, the stout Empaths Dantia, Kaelie, and Aislynn survived his assaults, ultimately managing to turn the ship back to Ratha and have the crew eject the butcher. In the end, all adventurer souls were returned to their bodies, and no others were reported injured.

It is unfortunate that the senseless Srinoja has spurned all offers, for now we must fight the Lich, may his skin desiccate and slough away, with her pirates at our back. Rest assured, though, dear reader, that we will find a way.

As for Srinoja, one wonders at her own lack of foresight. Surely she knows that this Lich's power can only grow, that she and her crew will be as tasty to him as any other mortals? Shall she continue feeding him so willingly from her own men and women? And, sly as she appears, is she instead servile? Perhaps she has bowed to the undead all along.

In the mean time, we will continue planning. Reach out to myself, Saragos, Sir Kenamer, or Dantia if you wish to become involved.

Fair winds and following seas,

Navesi Daerthon
True Bard, Zoluren's Herald
Editor in Chief of the First Land Herald

[At the bottom of the publication, some distance removed from the writing, is a curious illustration. It depicts a beaming, cherubic Gnome with a pointed cap and prominent eyepatch cheerfully proffering up a silver platter on which can only be the head of a pirate crewman, complete with bandana and hoop earrings. Above her looms an enormous, hooded figure, one skeletal hand exposed as it reaches for the head, the other dropping a sack labeled "$L" at the Gnome's feet. In the background, a crooked sign points the way to "The Hangman's Pursuit," and a line of crewmen can be seen following the sign, blissfully unawares, off the edge of a cliff, where they plummet into the gaping maw of a gigantic skull.]

437-05-38 - PIRATE SRINOJA MEETS FOR DIPLOMATIC TALKS

Several adventurers have been moved to action in the wake of the recent meeting with Commodore Khoheke Moglin and the Scholar Zauldin, which revealed their desire to strike against the Lich Jeihrem, may his heart fester until it is consumed by its own morbid gravity. Notably, a small group formed in the hopes of reaching out diplomatically to the Rathan Houses. Their idea was that, with House Moglin already committed, the other Houses might have an interest in engaging either the pirates who are harrying Moglin or the Lich himself. This group, consisting of Ayrell, Ezerak, Qiyan, and Saragos, penned a letter to the good commodore in the hopes that he would pass it on to the Houses.

Unfortunately, though the letter was sent via Saragos's trusted and majestic lynx, Arias, it was intercepted by the pirate Srinoja, a wily captain who claims to be entirely independent. She wrote, in remarkably good penmanship I might add, that "no pirates are in league with the Lich," further elaborating that they do not "in any way tolerate or accept the desecration of the dead," believing that "the Lich is contained to his sad little island of bones and garish decor... he respects the might of our ships enough to steer clear and sight his scheming elsewhere. After we showed him our mastery of the seas, he has respected our borders and lanes, and we thus respect his."

However, with this letter came an unusual opportunity. Captain Srinoja made it clear that she was willing to parley in order to discuss terms that might be agreeable to both sides. Despite her subsequent raid on Riverhaven, after some debate, the diplomatic party accepted her offer and agreed to meet her on Hara'jaal, taking with them a large force of adventurers for protection. Sir Kenamer and Sir Madigan took charge of defensive groups, and Dantia led triage preparation.

The diplomatic group, with two bodyguards, Sir Brisknite and Mazrian, ascended the gangplank to the Hangman's Pursuit while the defending force remained on the beachhead. Within the tiny captain's cabin, Captain Srinoja first casually dropped some information about her own source of power: She claims to have a "box full" of "Gorbesh exploders," presumably referring to the nasty Gorbesh Battle Sphere, with which we are so familiar now (see the First Land Herald article from 434-06-25).

[A sketch is included, accompanied by the signature, "Aislynn." The quality work depicts a Gnomish pirate. A scar cuts across the left side of the woman's face from beneath a simple leather eyepatch, while her other eye is steely grey. Her snow-white-streaked grey hair is shoulder length, and is worn in ringlets beneath a white-plumed peaked cap. Weathered skin is covered in an interlacing pattern of faded sleeve tattoos of coiling sea serpents. A windsteel naval cutlass hangs at her hip.]

She then laid out her desires: Full pardon for all current, past, and future charges of piracy, extortion, stealing, or other hustling within Qi. No taxes levied on independent merchants, and no port fees for ships that don't fly the flags of Rathan houses. All ships hereby confiscated to be returned. And the Rathan Houses agree to stay out of the business of Hara'jaal, Tref Bain, and any other independent islands. All this in exchange for her fleet refraining from interfering with House Moglin's, and a promise to go straight, act solely as proper privateers and mercenaries, with the possibility of joining the fight against the Lich as such. She further made some claims to desire Commodore Khoheke's head in exchange for other boons, but I won't dignify such murderous terms with ink.

Saragos made an impassioned plea for her to understand the state of the world, threatened as it is by those working with demons. "We are involved in a struggle to save the world from [the Perverse] threat. Their actions are a danger to everyone... those on the Isle consort with Demons, and those demons would eat our world. Me, you, your crew. My children. Moglin, Ratha, the mainland. Everyone. We don't want you as enemies. We don't want to be friends with the Houses. We just want to get in there and do what needs to be done. Moglin is with us because Moglin is willing to help in going after the Lich."

"Those demons are here. Now. On your doorstep. You might not want involvement with them, but they don't care about that. And if they succeed, the demons won't care if you have a deal with them. They'll devour everything."

Ayrell softly followed with a reasonable suggestion: a pause in hostilities, while the adventurers and Moglin move on the Lich. A temporary truce between House Moglin and Captain Srinoja's fleet. The captain was skeptical, pointing out that this was her chance to move against her enemy, while he was occupied with another. At the moment, the three enemies are caught in a Reshalian standoff, each with a knife to the other's throat.

Mazrian spoke mostly to himself, wondering aloud that certainly a move by Moglin to establish a secure beachhead on Basalt Isle would drain the House's resources for some time, both in ships and men. A House so occupied might, of course, be less vigilant in pursuing pirates.

Saragos summed up the options at that point. Option 1 included at minimum a truce, a promise that Basalt Isle would not go under Rathan jurisdiction if captured, and possibly some sort of safe passage for Srinoja's pirates, similar to what Aedem has. Option 2 would be to bring the captain's full demands to House Moglin, with the pirates joining up as privateers if the demands are met. Both options would require a complete cessation of the recent raiding against the mainland provinces. Captain Srinoja agreed to discuss with her crew. Meanwhile, the diplomats will be speaking with Commodore Khoheke to learn his response.

On the beach outside, nearing the end of negotiations, we were suddenly assaulted by those most nefarious and foul among the Perverse: the Evil Witch Agalea, the Nightmare Zehira, and the Fell Arcanist Nefis, their features distorted with the aberrant, twisted ugliness of their Unholy craft. Three others joined them that I saw, though I know not their names for certain — let they be warned that if they continue along this path, we will surely learn of them and shout their names among those of our foes. Fortunately, this group was easily dispatched by the large assembly of those on the righteous side of Good. But let this be a lesson to us: the Perverse are watching, and they will defend their island.

The black-sailed Hangman's Pursuit deposited the diplomats at that point and swiftly pulled anchor, slipping off and out of Tyvager Bay.

Our work is not yet done, fellow adventurers. We have much yet to do, both diplomatically and otherwise. If you would seek to be involved, speak to myself, Saragos, Sir Kenamer, or Dantia. In the meantime, be wary of black sails and black hearts.

Fair winds and following seas,

Navesi Daerthon
True Bard, Zoluren's Herald
Editor in Chief of the First Land Herald

437-05-02 - HOUSE MOGLIN RECRUITING FOR STRIKE ON LICH

Commodore Khoheke Moglin and the once-Necromancer, now Purified Scholar, Zauldin, held a meeting today at the Village Tavern in Acenamacra. Their aim was to bring to our attention the recent surge in piracy on our seas, and to recruit the aid of the good adventurers of Kermoria in a fight against the Lich Jeihrem, may his soul burn forever in the Spiral. It seems that House Moglin wishes to strike directly at the corrupted creature who inhabits an island in their seas, and they are suspicious of the coincidentally high number of pirate attacks, which prevent them from taking effective action.

The commodore began by speaking of recent activity on the Reshal Sea. "The seas have been turbulent of late. Pirates have been attacking our ships more frequently. Normally, they are only in it for themselves, but lately, they seem to be acting in a more coordinated fashion. It makes us wonder. The increased incidents of piracy have not made it easy for us to prosecute our war against the Lich." Zauldin mentioned a previous attempt to assault Basalt Isle, the secret stronghold of the Foul One, which was met with "extreme resistance."

"We are essentially fighting a naval war on two fronts, dividing our forces," said Khoheke. When asked what sort of flag the pirate ships were flying, he responded, "I've seen an increase in a number of ships with black sails and no flags." As to their tactics, he said, "Primarily, they try to approach on their own ships and board our own. Sometimes, they have employed elemental magic… [and they] are flesh and blood, not undead." Zauldin added, "The pirates have not offered terms of extortion yet, which leads us to believe there are none."

Even as we spoke, I heard from Dantia that black-sailed ships had anchored near the South Docks of the Crossing, and, shortly after, that they were seen at the Crossing Empath guild. So it seems that these pirates are both active and not entirely content to harass House Moglin and the open seas.

Zauldin went on, "For the time being this engagement has been very taxing. Khoheke is proud, but House Moglin has suffered under this conflict, losing many ships and more bodies in this conflict." He went on to describe some research he has been undergoing in order to help aid the effort. "With the Temple, I have aided in the creation of a holy weapon that I believe will serve in our war against Jeihrem." He says that in his tests, it has worked "mostly." It does not require training to use, but is only usable by those who are proficient in using Holy mana.

Zauldin emphasized that his creation is unlike the Philosopher's Knot, which was an extremely complex machine designed by the late Necromancer Osven. He described it as a fire, and when Miskton brought up the name "sanyu aes" (divine fire, in Gamgweth), he replied, "That has a nice ring to it, and is accurate."

Overall, Zauldin was cautiously optimistic. He said, "I'm not convinced this weapon will destroy Jeihrem. I don't want to mislead. But where steel and magic have failed, perhaps this will slow his spread into the seas."

Saragos rightly pointed out that Sivroch will also need attention. The loathsome anti-priestess and lieutenant of the Lich is known to have three arms and five eyes, and a recent vision predicted a five-eyed being taking part in a naval attack. Zauldin replied, "She has factored into all our preparations. I genuinely hope we are over preparing, but I doubt it."

Ultimately, Zauldin was the one to make a plea for aid. "Khoheke likely wouldn't want me saying this, but House Moglin has borne the brunt of this conflict for some time, and their resources are stretched thin. I will say, confidently, their resolve is strong, their will unbroken, and their talents unmatched, but, they need our help."

The request so far is simple: recruit others to this cause, and report any unusual activities on the seas to Commodore Khoheke. They will be requesting aid again soon, and they hope to have our assistance in a variety of missions, including naval, exploratory, sorties, and the like. Let the great adventurers of the provinces rise to this cause.

A few who had already begun planning spoke up and offered to direct those interested in signing up. Speak with Saragos, Zharen, Dantia, or Sir Kenamer if you wish to get involved.

Fair winds and following seas,

Navesi Daerthon
True Bard, Zoluren's Herald
Editor in Chief of the First Land Herald

436-6-34 - GILLBORN ATTACK, TRICKLING SUN PERFORM RITUAL

Diplomat Kolanem recently paid a visit to the Stone Rotunda within the unstable ripplegate, where Arbiter Ceryaen stood with the Merelew faction leaders in need of -- and willing to accept -- our help. Although Kolanem assured us that King Galpelus of Andreshlew was happy and most factions were drunk with success, appreciative of our aid, he came with a dire warning: The Gillborn were not pleased. Mainlander involvement in Merelew affairs had only increased their ire.

Kolanem informed us that an Inverted Crucible engineer, a machinist, had gone missing, her home burgled. He feared this incident was part of a Gillborn plot to be carried out soon, and the faction was likely to blame others, jeopardizing the amicable relations developed between our races.

Kolanem was right, and the Gillborn attacked Crossing shortly after that conversation. They planted bombs around the Crossing, while undersea minions distracted us with an invasion. I cleared out the Empath Guild of these creatures with Dantia and moved out onto the streets to help, where I fell in combat. While I was recovering, I was notified by friends that most bombs had been discovered and disarmed.

Kolanem arrived at the Empath’s Guild courtyard, followed by a pair of burly Merelew who carried in a large buffet table. The men placed the table on the ground, bowed and made their exit. Indifferent to the barrage of questions from those who did not trust him, such as Lasika, Kolanem said, "Please, be eating, enjoy food! We are fortunate to have succeeded."

A soft *snap* was heard from the buffet table, accompanied by the rapid whirr of gears and springs. Kolanem gasped, recoiled from the sound, and began to shout! Kolanem exclaimed, "Yait kal asaran... Run, now!" For a moment, people didn’t seem to hear him or the ominous noise that emanated from the table. A series of accelerated *clicks* built to a dull whine, and terminated in the loud *ping* as a striker broke a glass vial. Kolanem shouted, "FLEE!"

It was too late. A bolus of electricity erupted from underneath the buffet table, the volcanic glass shattered into a cloud of molten shrapnel. Lightning wildly arced in all directions, struck several people, and raked along the ground and surroundings. A deafening roar of thunderclaps reverberated over the area. Many who had not fled the area perished, and Kolanem hurried off to report back to the King.

A few days later, the Crossing was recovered from the brutal attacks and the festivities on Andreshlew ended on a high note. The Trickling Sun faction performed a ritual to cleanse the ocean, and the island of Andreshlew sank back to the depths from which it came. From the zemmunhu, the flying leviathan, the sight was breathtaking.

We watched in wonder. In the distance, dozens of rings pulsated with blue-green luminescence and surged outward from the coast. The rings extended for miles, faded, and pulsed again as the island started to shake. Around it, five points of sickly purple light began to glow. When each consecutive pulse of the luminescence passed through the purple points, it became brighter and brighter, until faint, almost ghostly impressions of the waters were visible.

The island rumbled as a flock of sea birds exploded upward and scattered in a cloud of confused calls. The five points flared with brilliance, an ephemeral purple overlay highlighting a fang, chelicerae, eye, plating, and spinneret. More pulses from the island bathed the spider pieces, and a thin, tenuous, wavering line formed, connecting them together.

An almost overwhelming sensation of connectivity surged over me for the support and efforts towards the Trickling Sun. I felt a fleeting spark flicker within me, becoming keenly aware of all the living creatures around me, and I felt the whispered emotions of my fellow adventurers.

The ancient and almost alien mind of the flying zemmunhu sang, and it mixed with the confusion and jubilation of the flock of birds that soared over the ocean. Deeper, much deeper, I felt the predatory calculations of hungry sea creatures and those that hide from inescapable teeth and claws. The five pieces of corruption-infused tomiek could be sensed as a vibrant purple wrongness.

The ring pulsed and reached a crescendo, and the purple glow of the spider pieces jittered, pulled away from their physical tomiek forms. The hexagon wavered and flexed, then burst outward and expanded wildly. As the outlines left the tomiek, they dispersed, buffeted by the rings. Moments later the outlines and rings were gone, the ocean dimmed and quieted, but the island shook harder than ever.

The leviathan rumbled, hooted, and clicked, and Andreshlew began to sink! Massive waves hammered the beaches and spread further and further inland, flooding the city! As the waters covered the streets, coral gardens and puckered anemones erupted with color, and extended hungry tentacles in search of food. Crystal globules flared with light as they descended, and the mirrored panes of the palace shone with light as the last towers sank beneath the waters.

The leviathan shook gently and emitted a long, mournful call. Kolanem smiled and nodded before he informed us that the dive of a zemmunhu would not be safe for us, or even the Merelew. Many of us left for safety, heeding his warning, but not everyone made it off in time. Bodies poured through ripplegates as they collapsed and some washed up near the Marina dock in Crossing. I do not know what it was like to be on the island as it sank, but Kaedan described diving with the zemmunhu as a race to the depths that caused the air to erupt from his body even as he was crushed by the abyss.

In the aftermath of these extraordinary events, I hope that everyone who visited the Merelew island enjoyed their time on Andreshlew, and that we are all now safe from the Gillborn. I also pray that the ritual performed by the Trickling Sun holds, and our allies on Andreshlew enjoy peaceful and healthy waters once more.

Sincerely,

Shaylynne Kendiahle
Reporter of the First Land Herald

436-03-31 - A FISHY ATTACK ON THE CROSSING

I recently sat with my wife and a friend on the Crystal Shores of Ilithi, and they filled me in on the latest happenings.  A pair of Merelew diplomats had visited the Crossing to discuss the plight of Andreshlew, where the ecology has suffered since the massive arachnid explosion.  Our friend also told us about sightings of aggressive lobsters and undead Merelew.

Not long after this conversation, I heard from the Crossing that the city was being invaded by similar creatures.  I went to help and came upon a battle at Magen Road right outside of the Empath’s Guild doors.  A dead deeplight fish lay on the ground, and a crowd was still fighting with a nacre-plated Torbisan decapod.

I barely had time to notice that the leopard-spotted decapod was attacking Allye.  The ground shook with each massive step as an ambulatory coral reef with labyrinthine grooves plodded into the area, seawater pooled around its "feet."

Unable to get out of the way fast enough, I was crushed by the mountainous coral reef as it passed!  Stunned, prone, and gravely wounded, the rest was absolute chaos from my point of view.  I opened my eyes, tried to stand and fight with everything I had.  Looking around, I saw more deeplight fish had appeared, and a rockclaw lobster covered in barnacles approached me quickly as others attacked it.

Briefly able to make out a few familiar faces, I saw Rifkinn, Uritel, Mikhal, Hanryu, Maintain, Rinzal, Ezerak, Gabellia, and Trikant all had weapons drawn.  Allye lay on the ground near me, stunned.   Something struck me in the eye and I was dazed again.  Shards of coral were breaking off from the reef in an assault that felt like shrapnel.  The deadly reef loomed over us, kicked up dangerous debris, and swung at us with roughly-formed, boulder-sized limestone fists.

I could sense someone was trying to heal me, but I kept taking so many critical hits there was no chance of a full recovery for me.  I stood up for a moment and reached for my polearm, convinced we would win, even if I would die trying.  

From what I can recall of the event, the deeplight fish had luminous needle-like teeth and were resistant to flames, a decomposing Merelew threw morjalbreth bone harpoons, the coral reef was protected by a limestone exoskeleton that was susceptible to electricity, and most of all I remember being in a world of pain.

After what felt like an eternity, knowing I would not make it out alive if I did not get help soon, I saw another familiar face.  Medir followed me as I limped west down the road, towards the Herbalist.  Both of us were badly injured, so I rested while he fought one last deeplight fish.  A few others had arrived down the way east: Morkim, Dytt, Kiks, Sozinho, and Vibrato.  Finally, we heard the all clear.  A strong breeze cleared the air of the scent of brine, and the circling gulls descended to feast on the ocean's remains.  A loud call came from the walls, "The city is secure!  The invaders have been repelled!"

That was by far the toughest invasion I have gotten myself caught up in, and I hope my account will help others prepare for any future attacks.  The Merelew delegates did warn us that this could happen.  If anyone has more information, please contact me or Navesi of the First Land Herald.

Sincerely,

Shaylynne Kendialahle
Reporter of the First Land Herald

436-02-37 - LATEST VISIONS: UNDERSEA GLOW, ALFAR WARRIOR, AND MORE

Greetings, readers. My name is Miskton Ramahk, Court Mage of Ilithi, a member of the guild of Moon Mages, and by inclination a researcher of those visions of the future experienced by members of our guild. This article is intended to share those experiences with the public at large, to help keep people informed of what the future may hold. I do also host regular meetings in Shard on the subject where people can share their thoughts on the meaning of visions.

I will begin by putting down my impressions of what I experienced, as best I can. There may be some cases where the experience is difficult to put into words, but I will do as best I can.

I will put down those visions which are most recently being experienced by seers, but there may also be some cases in which notes about an older, related vision may be relevant to include as well. I have also in some cases included my own sketches of what I have seen, but I should stress that these should not be considered entirely accurate depictions of any people or objects which are the subjects of the visions.

To start, I will include a vision that seems quite relevant to the recent excitement involving the appearance of the Merelew diplomats:

My lungs filled with salt water and my eyes adjusted to inky darkness. Gradually, I found I was able to make out pinpricks of dancing blues and greens, and I realized I was surrounded by schools of glowing animals, each rippling with pulsating bands of luminescence. Mesmerized, I reached forward to cup a small octopus undulating by, when something bumped my shoulder and swam away in a flurry of turbulence, only evident by a gap in the surrounding points of light. As I peered into the waters, I became aware of a softly glowing purple gleam far beneath me, rising closer and closer. Suddenly, the schooling luminescence surrounding me blinked off, leaving me floating in utter darkness, and the purple illumination grew in intensity, and the vision faded.

[Accompanying the description is a sketch of a small octopus moving through the water.]

According to Speaker Kolanem of the Merelew, the parts of Kurmin's metallic spider which have been scattered about the sea give off a purple light, and they are inimical to life in the area. This vision would seem to be a demonstration of the effect those chunks of metal are having on the sea floor.

My next vision is part of a long series of visions which have been occurring for some time and are probably too lengthy to recount all of them in this format. To summarize, they show an Elothean Empath and an Alfar warrior defending something in a mountain steppe area against soldiers on multiple occasions. Eventually, however, the soldiers were able to overwhelm the Empath with a flurry of crossbow bolts, killing her and severely injuring the Alfar warrior. They did not kill it, however, and subsequent visions have shown the Alfar warrior appearing to track down the soldiers responsible, or perhaps those who are part of the same organization, and taking revenge. One such vision:

I found myself on a long rowboat, a dozen soldiers intently peering into the gloom, the riverbank and forest barely visible from the light of flickering torches. The soldiers breathed heavily, clearly terrified. Suddenly, the water exploded into a column of spray and with a startled scream, two of the soldiers disappeared into the murky river. The rest of the soldiers alternated between firing crossbow bolts into the water and shouting at the oarsmen to row faster, and in the confusion, another column of water exploded and two more soldiers disappeared. Chaos ensued, and a strange black blade wielded by a pale arm slashed from out of the water, hamstringing and gutting the remaining soldiers. Some supplies caught on fire, and the boat began to burn.

Rising from the waters, a gaunt Alfar warrior slowly strode into the forest, snapping the blade to dry it and touching a faded blue strip of cloth tied to its bicep. The vision faded.

[Accompanying the description is a sketch of an Alfar warrior with scarred wrists and broken wings, a strip of cloth tied to its bicep.]

This next vision seems very likely to depict a Trader interacting with those beings known as the Negotiants:

A man dressed in fine silk robes and expensive jewelry sat cross-legged in an elegantly decorated room before a mahogany writing table. Arranging a beautiful gold and platinum pen and ebony inkwell, the man carefully spread two large sheets of crisp, clean paper and glanced out at the open window, closing his eyes and inhaling deeply of the starlight. Pursing his lips, the man reached into his robes and produced a clear tessera. With the sound of shattering glass, the tessera unfurled, involuted ribbons and nested octagons dancing in expanding and contracting spirals. Taking a deep breath, the man quickly placed the tessera atop his head, his eyes going wide, the pupils contracting to pinpricks, and he went perfectly still.

With unnatural grace, the man reached for the pen, and dipped it into the inkwell, gently tapping the rim to shake excess fluid, and began to write. The vision faded.

While the general idea of what the vision is about does not seem too difficult to determine, the actual meaning of it is less clear. It seems like the Trader is actually being possessed by something after putting on the tessera, but to my understanding this is not a normal interaction between Traders and the Negotiants. If they simply wanted to get something down in writing, they are already capable of communicating with beings on our plane to do so, so there would seem to either be some other motivation involved, or some other being.

The next vision, I must admit, is rather unclear. If any readers do have any inspiration about what it might be depicting, I am most interested in hearing your thoughts.

I saw a man ascending a wide flight of stone stairs, pausing periodically to catch his breath. With a grunt of frustration, the man pushed onward, occasionally taking two or even three steps at a time. Minutes passed, and he began to slow, taking a seat and hanging his head between his knees to pant. Sweat beaded on his forehead, and a single drop rolled down his nose, falling to the dry stone. As the droplet hit the steps, a low rumble vibrated the stairwell, and the stairs lengthened, the riser shrinking. The man turned and smiled, and began to once again climb the now easier steps, and the vision faded.

And finally, we have a vision which seems to be a follow up to a vision that was seen a little while back. Here is the recent one:

I saw a low walled city perched over a river delta. Two runners sprinted forward, a man and a woman, racing ahead. Naked save for flowing wraps, their dirt-caked feet kicked up a billowing cloud of dust. A shout went up from the city, and massive wooden gates cranked shut, a thick timbered jam dropping into position. The runners did not slow down.

When the runners were about three hundred yards from the gate, someone atop the walls shouted "Fire!" and a volley of arrows rose into the sky. The two runners increased their speed, leaping side to side to evade the falling shafts. As they approached the gate, both turned slightly and grunted, their shoulders slamming into the barricade, which exploded in a shower of wood splinters. The runners continued through the city, leaping over carts and around surprised children, and arrived at the water's edge, where they continued to sprint across the surface, disappearing around the curve of the bay. The vision faded.

It has been some time since the earlier vision was last brought up, so I will include that here as well, for reference.

I saw a vast open vista, salt flats stretching to the horizon, reflecting the sun in a vast expanse of white glare beneath a cloudless, pale blue sky. Everything was still and silent, when suddenly a man and a woman sprinted by, nearly nude save simple flowing wraps. Both were barefoot, their calloused feet pounding into the salty ground leaving cracked footprints, a cloud of dust billowing in their wake. Neither passed the other, and sweat poured from their flowing hair and long limbs. They heaved, their breaths in rhythm, and their hearts beat steadily, furiously. Muscles strained, tendons creaked, and still they pounded forward, eyes wide and faces grim. The man began to falter and pulled a vial from his belt, and without missing stride, drank it in full. He grimaced, clenching his teeth as blood began to stream from his nose, but he surged forward and matched the woman's pace. They continued to run, and the sun burned overhead. The vision faded.

This one is difficult to say. The more recent vision would seem to perhaps indicate the runners are not literally people, but represent some implacable force that will not be stopped. One that is not overtly hostile, however, because while they did smash through the city gate, they did not make any attempt to actually harm people once through, even going slightly out of their way to avoid running down children. But still, they are unable to be stopped by obstacles, even the water. The previous vision, however, particularly the part in which the male runner drank down a vial of some substance when he started to flag, would indicate that they actually are flesh and blood beings of some sort.

If anyone has any thoughts on these visions, or has any aspect of them jump out as particularly noticeable, I am quite interested in hearing what you have to say. Please feel free to seek me out or send correspondence, and we will in the near future be having a discussion in Shard to go over these visions.

Miskton Ramahk
Visionist, Court Mage of Ilithi

436-02-30 - MERELEW DELEGATE FORMALLY ASKS FOR AID

As I reported in the last issue, the Merelew island of Andreshlew is unwell, made "unhappy" by pieces of spider-shrapnel after the giant mechanical spider exploded in the ocean. Delegate Kolanem arrived recently in the Crossing to speak on behalf of King Galpelus, accompanied by the diplomat Cotovatre.

Included is a sketch of two Merelew holding themselves with stately poise, one appearing male and the other female. Although rendered in the typical black and white of the newsletter, their ichthyic features are striking; each bears delicate scales, a snub nose, gently webbed fingers, and pointed ears partially hiding a set of gills on the neck. The male's head is bald but features a spiraling tattoo of thick black lines, while the woman has a single strip of hair down the center of her scalp, worn to the left.

Kolanem told us that King Galpelus had been speaking of bringing the island to the surface of the ocean, a fact he found curious because Cotovatre's recent visit to our seers told her of a vision of just that. Once the king learned of this vision, he decided to act upon his desire, and the island will indeed rise. Kolanem admitted that there was some disagreement over the king's choice. Some would apparently prefer to handle the matter of Andreshlew's illness internally. But the king's say is, naturally, final.

Kolanem explained further the situation on Andreshlew. "Is know a little of what happened. We hear stories [of the mechanical spider]. But we did not realize how far damage went until too late. The sea is sick, and we need your help. King Galpelus will be raising Andreshlew and opening borders to all. King Galpelus asks that you aid in cleaning our waters, and that you enjoy our lands. We is rather, actually, some, are excited for this exchange. While we trade with the Elves along the rivers, there is much we do not know of you, and much we both have to gain."

Kolanem further warned us about the sea and the dangers it may produce. "The seas are sick, and they are very angry. Never safe, always must be cautious, but this is new. The sea is very sick, and we have been fighting very hard. And the sea is coming for you too now. Is come not only asking your help, but also to tell you to prepare. Migrations are in chaos, and they circle further from us. They will be here in a matter of days. Be vigilant. They are angered, and seem to be attracted to the source of sickness, the body of the spider and the gods' weight. Defend your temples. We have had to defend our altars." He also later suggested finding pieces of the broken spider to study.

When asked who or what he meant by "they," Kolanem said, "Creatures. Things of the deep, some of which once alive." It became clear with further questioning that he spoke of the undead. Somehow, it seems, the spider made them "very mad," which caused them to grow and roam further. They can even make it inland, though "not much far." "They walk. Breathe air for short time, not too long, but long enough." He also mentioned that there is a purple glow in the seas around the broken spider, which corresponded exactly to a vision shared by Visionist Miskton during the conversation.

When asked for more information on how to defeat the creatures, Kolanem said, "They are predators. They cooperate. They are also all prey. They are smart, and will defend themselves. Watch them well, and work as team. You will need, and I mean this, you will need to work together. Healers, guards, attackers. Move in and out. Is never seen magic do what some of them can do. But they fall to spear and spell alike."

Expect the rise of the magnificent city soon, and prepare yourselves for invasions of undead.

Sincerely,

Navesi Daerthon
True Bard, Zoluren's Herald
Editor in Chief of the First Land Herald

---

MERELEW FACTS, PART 2

The Merelew enjoy cooking. Kolanem and his staff provided a number of types of seafood, such as raw tuna, boiled clams, and seared swordfish, in addition to a hard cheese that was made of whale milk. When asked how one milks a whale, Cotovatre responded, "Take much effort. Make whale happy, so whale cooperate." Kolanem added, "We keep whale herd safe. They trust us and come back." He also said about Merelew cooking, "Merelew have no sweet fruits, no berries. Trade for them. They find their way into our dishes, much improve. But also, original dishes have importance." There was also an alcoholic drink called zuoganaas, which is "kelp wine that has been heated to steam, making stronger. Name translates close to 'burnt water.'"

Underwater lava is a feature of their lives. Not only might it be involved in making their metals and their meals, but Cotovatre said, "Lava is much problem."

The Merelew mages do not receive visions as ours do. Kolanem said, "Our mages of tides and moonlight do not dream like yours do." Of their priests and priestesses, he said, "Ours hear Her always, others sometimes," presumably referring to Aluna. He also said, "Is joke that priests not willing to teach more, priests demand you learn more."

Merelew can stay on land for any amount of time, but over time their scales dry out and become itchy.

Only the Merelew queen and princesses wear their hair to the right. All others wear it to the left. Other jewelry and body decorations have no particular meaning, though they favor painting the hands rather than wearing rings, which can damage their webbing.

Coralite is a type of metal unique to the Merelew.

When the city of Andreshlew is underwater, it is entirely so. They do not keep pockets or areas filled with air.

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