The First Land Herald
The First Land Herald is a publication dedicated to Zoluren current events. When possible reporters may also report on other events throughout Kermoria.
Editor in Chief: Navesi Daerthon
Reporter and Lead Archivist: Saragos Daerthon
Reporter: Klines Silvermist
Assistant Reporter: Marcul McRee-Rhyian
Latest Issues
425-02-30 - STABLE RIFT APPEARS NEAR ROSSMAN'S LANDING
Today, what appears to be a stable, possibly permanent, planar rift was discovered near Rossman's Landing, in the Mistwood Forest where three paths come together by a hawthorn tree. The rift leads to what is clearly a planar distortion, quite possibly some sort of physical manifestation of the Plane of Probability. It is populated by some of the most deadly of the interplanar beings I wrote of in my last article: huge zenzics and starcrashers. All attempts to break apart the rift, as we are able to do with the others, failed utterly.
A detailed drawing shows the rift yawning open, lightning streaks of light and shadow deeply inked across the edges.
Shortly after the rift appeared, I witnessed several strange effects near the opening, on our side in the Plane of Abiding. Webbing appeared from nowhere and covered those of us in the area. Brutal cold suddenly buffeted us. We were also at different times stunned and taken to our knees. The rift itself dripped liquid fire, burning the grass beneath it. Crystalline bubbles floated out from within it, rising to the sky above. Finally, the surface of the rift buckled and warped before snapping back into place, looking somehow more solid than before.
I was only able to brave the interior for a short time, but within it my eyes were filled with the wonders of an alien world. Strands of manifest darkness and light roped around each other, pulsing like the heartbeat of a great web in the sky. Light and shadow grew like moss upon boulders. I saw songbirds singing droplets of liquid crystal. Yet, among all this strange beauty, there was also corruption: pitted ground, noxious gas, and sickly green and red veins connecting twin masses of shadows. Unfortunately, due to the danger present I was not able to take the time to connect to the area and search for visions of the past. If you should choose to brave this distorted world, exercise great caution. These creatures are deadly in the extreme. I remind us all to continue our work to remove the other rifts, purify the tainted material, or purge the interlopers, as desired by our goddesses. Our link to this foreign plane is growing stronger.
Navesi Daerthon
Zoluren's Herald,
Editor in Chief, The First Land Herald
423-5-39 STUNNING VICTORY AGAINST THE ELPALZI KEEP
The rush of victory surges through our veins once again, as Zoluren has delivered a death blow to the Elpalzi stronghold! Sorrow's Keep was breached and ELPALZI COMMANDER ALRET IS DEAD, COMPLETELY CONSUMED BY MAELSHYVE! His assassins lie dead as well, their souls on the Starry Road! We may finally rest easily knowing that the rebel Elpalzi, who have plagued us since the beginning of 409, are broken, leaderless and without a Keep.
Lord Grigoire called everyone to action with few formalities at DiSilveron manor. Our beloved Prince Belirendrick led the charge into battle, while many stayed behind with the sage Trethom in order to enact the necessary entry ritual.
The Ritual
As the prince's unit moved up the Northern Trade Route and into Sorrow's Reach, Trethom led all those willing into the manor, disbursing crystal amulets. As Ovorion told me, "The Sage invoked the Moonlight; we all rubbed our amulets at his command. When he beseeched the starlight, we tapped at his command." Marcul added, "The amount of Lunar mana flowing through that place was enormous." Ovorion went on to explain that he felt a mental intrusion during the ritual, an "awful sensation" that he attributed to Elpalzi mind-probing. When that happened, those present pushed the amulet to effect a kind of pushing from their minds. At the end, Ovorion felt a "tugging sensation" and then blacked out briefly, awakening to hear Trethom declaring the ritual a success. Trethom was clearly taxed from the event, as shortly after he was led away by guardsmen, leaning heavily on them.
The Assault
When the fighting force arrived at the portal in Sorrow's Reach, Prince Belirendrick raised a sphere toward the blockade. A silent but palpable wave of energy rushed through the area, washing away the blockade completely and revealing a cavern mouth. At this point the prince urged us to split into separate fighting groups, which we did, led by Mazrian, Sir Kenamer, Councillor Aislynn, Prince Belirendrick, and possibly others I was not able to discern. We entered the Keep in our groups and immediately encountered the enemy. Faced with numerous Elpalzi in tight quarters, at times it was almost impossible to hide or retreat. The difficulty of the fight was evident as bodies piled up, brave Empaths and Clerics like Alephisa and Bryanny huddled just outside to create a field hospital. Healers such as Karthor and Qiyan braved the field to relieve battered combatants. Noble Paladins such as Sir Sebestyen and Dame Isharon acted as a bulwark against the brunt of the attacks, while fighters such as Rmel and Rizitel hammered the enemy with blows. There are too many brave friends of Zoluren to list fully here.
Others I found scouted the Keep individually, such as Elec and Hanryu. I found Elec resting calmly in the Interrogation room, and Hanryu later shared with me the documents and map he was able to procure from the Elpalzi stronghold.
During the fighting we also felt the souls of Elpalzi assassins Tengh and Zayerg walk the Starry Road. I was unable to obtain statements from any present at their deaths, but we rejoice all the same.
The Prisoner Rescue
While the other group leaders led in fighting the Elpalzi, the group led by Councillor Aislynn, which I saw to be formed of the Councillor, Klines, Perune, Heartsfyre, Fariden, and possibly others, made their way to the prison cells. Klines told me that Iazen was waiting for them there, having already readied the other prisoners to move. Aislynn's group escorted them all out, defending them as they went, until they reached a point of safety where Klines could gate them back to DiSilveron manor. Klines said, "As we all arrived, Lord Grigoire was there to greet us. Shortly thereafter medics emerged from the Manor and took charge of the prisoners and saw them through the gate." Perune added that there were only a small handful of prisoners remaining. He claimed that Iazen reported all other prisoners had perished before the assault.
The Battle with Alret
Finally, the fighting force pushed through the Keep toward Alret's war room. There we found a barricaded door, which Lord Grigoire bid us break down. Many took weapons to the door, shredding it until we were allowed passage. Inside we found Alret in front of a crumbling sacrificial altar. We struck him down easily in a brutal attack en masse. Twice, however, he rose again. The three killing blows were struck by Somniumvisum, Mazrian, and Hammerfist.
Alret wore an amulet shaped like eye around his neck, which emitted a sickly green glow, and during the fighting it began to glow even brighter. He grasped it and began calling out to Maelshyve to destroy his enemies. In his mix of Elpalzi and Common, I was able to make out promises of fealty from the entire Elpalzi race, and of bloody offerings to the demon, interspersed with boasts of how his power and prowess could aid her. However, as he fell for the third time, I heard a booming voice: "I seek no servants, I need no worshipers, I am that I am -- behold my children as they lay waste to all!" Soon after, inky black tentacles shot out of the amulet and entwined Alret's body in a barbed embrace. Mere seconds later, they wrenched away violently, pulling with them tattered pieces of ethereal matter as they retracted into the artifact. His corpse decayed then with alarming efficiency, leaving no trace of him behind, and we all felt that his soul was consumed by Maelshyve! However, just then, we were attacked by Maelshyvean hierophants and cinder beasts, and to my dismay I saw a shadowy, amorphous creature — which we would later come to call a maeldryth — snatch up the amulet in one of its many inky black tentacles.
The Sealing, and the Battle with Demonspawn
We fought for a short time until Lord Grigoire gave the order to fall back so that the Clerical troops could seal in the demonspawn. I noticed after exiting that the portal now crackled with Holy energy, so I can only presume that they finished their job. At this point, Prince Belirendrick ordered us back to the Crossing, as it was overrun with more of the demon's minions. Of particular note, the maeldryths we found there would immobilize and curse our fighters, and the only way we found to dispel them was with the Uncurse spell. Once this was known, our fighters cleared the streets with alacrity, until the city was safe once more.
Well fought, Zoluren. Today we have vanquished our enemy! We look forward to peace talks with those Elpalzi friendly to us, and to uncovering the location of the foul amulet so it may be destroyed. But for now, rest and relax. It is a time to celebrate our accomplishment!
By my hand,
Navesi Daerthon
Editor in Chief, The First Land Herald
423-5-36 EXPLOSION AT SORROW'S REACH!
With the death of Geva, hope that the conflict with the Elpalzi is finally coming to an end has never been higher. Lord Grigoire soon plans to make an announcement that many speculate will finally see Zoluren on the offensive against Alret and his forces. In advance of Lord Grigoire’s announcement, operations by the Zoluren military have begun at Sorrow’s Reach.
Early on the 35th day of the 5th month of Uthmor the Giant, 423 years since Lanival, a significant explosion was heard from the direction of Sorrow’s Keep. “It was about as loud as the explosions during an invasion. But I think I caught more of an echo of it seeing as I was standing outside the [Moon Mage guild] tower, behind the wall. The flash was pretty bright though,” stated Willower, a member of the Moon Mage guild. “I felt the ground shake and I heard a huge explosion that seemed to come from the direction of Sorrow’s Keep,” stated Meantermel, a member of the Barbarian guild.
Many immediately rushed for the Reach to try to determine what had occurred. Upon arrival at the cavern mouth, they were greeted by a full company of Zoluren soldiers. A member of the company indicated that, acting upon Lord Grigoire’s orders, an Explosives detachment set charges and detonated them in order to clear a way to a magical portal within the cavern. The detachment removed the debris and then returned home. “They exploded the rubble that was blocking the cavern mouth, so the wards can be access when the key is ready,” stated Masterson, a member of the company. He went on to say, “Lord Denesal wanted it done early so it could be assessed for threats.”
The newly exposed portal is hazy and glows with magics that swirl in hues of green, red, blue, and black. While red, blue, and black are associated with the moons that move in the skies above Elanthia, green does not correspond to any known moon. Green does, however, correspond with the demon Maelshyve which many have speculated is somehow linked to the Alret and Geva. It is also the color of the moongates and teleportational magics used by the Elpalzi. The area around the portal portal is surrounded by scorched stone. It is possible that the scorch marks are from the explosions, however that is uncertain.
The company of Zoluren soldiers indicated that no entities have attempted to emerge from the portal, despite it being stable. Masterson said, “We’re a Holy unit, trained in conjunction with the temple. We came in after the explosive company left, after the mages who were watching declared the portal stable. We are here to ensure that [nothing comes through the portal].”
It is clear that these soldiers intend to carry out their charge, to prevent access to the portal until the key is ready. Will Lord Grigoire’s imminent announcement reveal more about the ritual? Will the attack on Sorrow’s Keep begin at the conclusion of the announcement? All of Elanthia holds its breath as we wait for whatever the future may bring, to arrive.
Klines Silvermist
Reporter, The First Land Herald
423-5-13 - GEVA DEAD! ZOLUREN TO BATTLE ELPALZI!
Zoluren reels with triumph! The witch is dead! GEVA, Lieutenant of the Elpalzi has fallen, HER SOUL CONSUMED BY THE DEMON MAELSHYVE! Rejoice, citizens!
Her downfall began on Truffandu, the 13th day of Uthmor in this year 423. She was heard on the public gwethdesuan network taunting the people of Zoluren. Self-described Weasel Professor Nakori warned me, "Do not think any thoughts to people about anything! Geva can hear all the thoughts and she will come snip your hair and make a doll and torture you!" Perune confirmed that Geva "used [a doll] on Qiyan and a number of others. It allowed her to probe their minds, Geva claimed, and also almost kill them." Nakori continued, "Geva snipped my fur and made a doll of me and tried to torture me, but I was strong and she wasn't very good at making it hurt for a long time, so I didn't tell her anything that I didn't know I knew."
Geva spoke openly of stealing into guilds and plaza shops, doing gods-know-what foul work, mocking our province and its people as she did so. Her timely end came about due to the quick thinking of well-known Zoluren pair, Kaelie and Mazrian. According to Mazrian, Kaelie spotted the Elpalzi witch at the Crossing Empath guild, and he set up ambush just outside. Kaelie then enlisted the help of Constanze to oust Geva from the guild with Empathic magics. Mazrian made his move and Geva went down! Even those of us distant from the event sensed then that her soul was taken, not to the Starry Road or even the Red Spiral, but into the bowels of that most evil of demons, Maelshyve.
HOWEVER, do not rest, Zoluren. Alret yet lives, and he commands the Elpalzi stronghold, which still teems with our enemies. But in heartening news, the Zoluren Council is finally ready to act. SOON WE STORM SORROW'S KEEP!
One andu ago, Perune called a Town Hall meeting to share the news brought to him by Lord Grigoire: Zoluren will march against the Elpalzi. We have finally discovered a way to breach their stronghold and will take the attack to them. Our most seasoned warriors are asked to join the front lines, breaking into Sorrow's Keep itself to purge it. All others are asked to join together in an undisclosed location and perform a ritual to aid in the battle in an undisclosed way. To those who would storm the castle, Perune warned NOT TO TOUCH anything inside, for fear of demonic influence. To those participating in the ritual, be prepared to use your magical attunement, should you have any — though all will be needed. Keep an ear to the gweth in the coming days for further announcements from the Zoluren military.
It is important to note at this point that not all Elpalzi are against Zoluren. Councilor Aislynn of the Order of the Apostles spoke to me of her experience with just one such Elpalzi. About 12 andu ago, she and Fariden encountered an Elpalzi woman, Kenla, on the Northern Trade Route. Kenla revealed that many Elpalzi were forced to fight under threat of death to themselves and their families, confessing that her four daughters were made to fight that day, all of whom were slain by Zoluren fighters. Aislynn said of it, "The sadness of a mother grieving for the loss of all of her children on the same day is... not something one can mistake." Kenla went on to tell that Geva has some means of sensing insurrection or disloyalty and expected her time would not be long. At the end of the conversation, Kenla was "torn apart by green fire," and her spirit was felt to walk the Starry Road.
Aislynn further told me that, through the work of Lady Lilena, Zoluren was able to obtain the key to Sorrow's Keep, whose magical wards have for so long kept us from attacking the Elpalzi directly. One friendly Elpalzi snuck into Commander Alret's war room and stole the key from him, delivering it unto us. And so, thanks to an Elpalzi, we shall finally be able to put an end to this conflict. Aislynn said that she believed that diplomacy, trust, and the desire to save the Elpalzi as a race were instrumental in us obtaining the key.
Today we remember the following fallen Elpalzi as brave friends and heroes to the province of Zoluren: Kenla, Esthen, Orles, Parthe, Conlet, and Ertusn.
Now, Zoluren, prepare yourselves for battle!
Navesi Daerthon
Editor in Chief, The First Land Herald
423-2-37 - ELPALZI LINKED TO VISION OF MAELSHYVE
For over a decade, the Elpalzi have launched raids on Zoluren. These raids have been sporadic and seemingly random in nature. However, over the past two days, the rate at which the Elpalzi are attacking has increased dramatically.
Since early on the 75th day of the 423rd year since Lanival, the Elpalzi have been launching constant attacks on The Crossing, Dirge, the Journalai Route, and the Northern Trade Road. While these attacks have varied in size, they stand out due to the consistent tempo. For the past couple of days, hardly an hour has gone by without warning calls being heard through the gwethdesuan network.
Furthermore, a small group of Guilded adventurers encountered a member of House Turmar, Lady Lilena Turmar, in The Crossing Empath Guild. Lady Lilena indicated that it was important she return to Dirge to speak with her great uncle and was offered an escort by this reporter, Liurilias, Aislynn, and Kaelie.
Near the start of the journey to Dirge, I volunteered to lead the group to its destination. While moving along the Northern Trade Road, our contingent came upon several Elpalzi who seemed to be in a state of retreat. Our group was able to handle these stragglers, however, the tide turned as we approached the road into Dirge. A few of us noticed what appeared to be a flash of shadow, which gave us pause. Before being able to assess what we had seen, many green portals began opening with organized groups of Elpalzi pouring from them.
We were almost immediately radically outnumbered and, with the benefit of surprise on their side, the Elpalzi managed to mortally wound Kaelie. Aislynn and myself began a tactical withdrawal with Lady Lilena, while Liurilias stayed behind to buy time for us. We withdrew in a harried rush that required me to fight off numerous pursuers as we fled. Finally, we managed to lose our enemies by retreating to the Abandoned Clan Great Hall near Sunfall Hub.
While we felt safe for the moment, it became apparent that a great danger was lurking in our future. Lady Lilena, a Moon Mage who studied under the Monks of the Crystal Hand, was suddenly overcome by a vision. From my perspective, the vision clearly overwhelmed her mind, and we worried about the lasting effects it might have. 0 Shortly after the vision ended, Liurilias and Kaelie managed to rejoin us without being followed. Using his considerable experience and training as a Cleric, Liurilias was able to link the spirits of all present: me, Aislynn, Kaelie, Lady Lilena, and himself. As a result of this link, Aislynn, Liurilias, and I were able to share Lady Lilena’s vision. Kaelie did not see it, and we hypothesize the link simply was not strong enough to share with all. The vision itself was truly overwhelming and felt different in its intensity from normal Moon Mage visions, of which I have had many. Throughout the entire vision, I experienced intense pain and mental rending, and I began to feel encompassed by a profoundly unnatural force. Oddly, this force was perceived in the same way I perceive the color green. As the vision continued, the pain remained intense, however I saw brief glimpses of an Elpalzi woman’s face, flickering in front of a dark, winged shape. The feeling of green continued to be prevalent in my mind as well. Finally, the vision flashed away, however just as it did so I distinctly saw a triple-tined claw.
This final image left all of us deeply unsettled. Our immediate thoughts turned to the one who uses the triple-tined claw as a standard: Maelshyve. It is widely accepted that the Zaulfung Stones are in place to repair the tear created by the Voidspell. Furthermore, it is known that Maelshyve has attempted to exploit the weakened state of the barrier between planes there, her influence apparent in the corruption of the swamp. Shortly after the shared vision, Lady Lilena managed to make it home safely via a family artifact. Lady Lilena said, “Well, if it salves your concerns, you'll know it is Auntie and the guards by the ruby glow." Shortly thereafter a ruby red glow surrounded Lady Lilena and both she and the glow disappeared moments later.
In addition to this vision, two other visions, which may be related, have been seen by several Moon Mages recently. In the first vision, a crowned figure stood in a room surrounded by rich tapestries and fine furnishings. Nearby, a human used a quill to write steadily, taking notes as the crowned figure spoke. During a lull in the speech, the writer reached toward an intricate insignia at his shoulder and brushed something away from one of its curves while smiling. In the second vision, Moon Mages found themselves in a dimly lit cell, overcome by a feeling of utter hopelessness. The cell door creaked open and light broke through it, but the feeling of hopelessness was so great that we could not move at all our shackled hand. These two visions may refer to the Moon Mage Iazen, who served as scribe for the Zoluren court. Iazen was taken prisoner by the Elpalzi years ago and has not been heard from since. The first vision may be a view into his past, while the second could be a glimpse into his present or future.
These vision leads to several questions: Is Iazen still alive? Does the triple-tined claw vision mean the Elpalzi are attempting to align with Maelshyve? Is Maelshyve using the Elpalzi as puppets? Does this somehow relate to the Necromancer Guild? As always, we must remain vigilant against the threats at our doorstep!
Klines Silvermist
Reporter, The First Land Herald
Recent Issues
421-6-25 - A MEETING WITH COUNCIL HERALD STREMBIN
This evening, a proclamation was presented to the Rathan populace by Council Herald Strembin Redthorne, Speaker of the Council of Advisors of Ratha. The Council Herald began by addressing a large crowd of common folk assembled in Monument Square, just outside the entrance to Sshoi-sson Palace.
“People of Ratha! Be it known that on the twenty-first day of this sixth month of Arhat the Fire Lion, in the year of the Bronze Wyvern, four-hundred and twenty-one years since the victory of Lanival the Redeemer, it was ratified by the Council of Advisors for the city of Ratha and island of Reshalia, to establish a temporary Home Guard of the Commons. To that end, all able-bodied citizens who are not members of any Guild, between the ages of sixteen and thirty, shall raise unto themselves such arms as they may afford, and enlist themselves within said Home Guard until such time as these immediate crises have been shown to abate.”
His words had a noticeable effect on the crowd, and sensing the agitation Strembin directed several Malk’smo constables into motion to silence the murmuring.
“The populace shall stand assured that with the passing of such dangers, said proclamation shall be lifted forthwith.”
His message delivered, the Council Herald waited for the crowd of commoners to disperse then invited the Guilded adventurers in attendance to join him within the palace for further discussion.
After leading the group to the west portico, Strembin first spoke of the recent attacks by Drogor’s minions and how the city was caught unprepared for them. He said that the invasions had prompted the Council’s decision to establish a list of heroes willing to bear arms in defense of Ratha should the need arise. And while this divine danger may be passing, the Council Herald noted that it was not the only threat Ratha faces.
“We have recent and ongoing reports of particularly vicious pirate attacks plying the sea lanes between Ratha and the mainland, as well as here and Surlaenis...More than simple pirates, if our reports so far are to be believed, though some of them are rather...hard to substantiate. The general ramblings are of a great flotilla, larger than most have ever seen. Which would seem to be considerable, given the fleets which call Ratha home.
“Several have babbled on about green-skinned pirates, which makes little to no sense. I can hardly believe there is a populace of Togs large enough to construct an entire flotilla.”
Strembin remarked that despite expanded patrols by both Redthorne and Odalva vessels, an increasing number of merchant ships are turning up lost or destroyed. Normally this would not be a great cause for concern, he said, but the attacks have been growing bolder and occurring closer to Reshalia shores.
Since the city has received no ransom demands with regard to hostages taken from captured ships, the Council is working under the assumption that the pirates may be in league with slavers. Strembin declared that Ratha has no intention of negotiating with any pirates, however, and that they should be eradicated whenever the opportunity presents itself.
Aislynn Ranloa, Vice Speaker of the Order of the Apostles, inquired if there had been any sightings of Aedem of late.
“That name hasn't been heard in quite some time, no. Though it does bring me to my next point of concern.
“Some of our informants among the more...dubiously legal crews who call the city home port, have filtered in some information that gives me greater pause. They say, apparently, that a new Baron Var'Quel has recently come to power on Hara'jaal. And unlike his more recent predecessors, it appears this man is a bit less shall we coin the phrase again, ‘Hands-off.’”
The adventurers discussed what this turn of events might mean for Qi'Reshalia. Council Herald Strembin explained that while the province has enjoyed many decades of non-interference from the barons, there is concern that this new leader may seek to bring back the “old ways.” When asked by Leucius Delarrazio what the old ways were, he responded: “A particularly vicious and well organized sort of piracy that the Reshal Sea hasn't seen in generations.”
The discussion then returned briefly to the topic of Drogor and reverence to the Immortals in general. True to form, Sea Priestess Whiteburn defended the god of the oceans, stating that He would not command His minions to attack without cause and that He must always be honored and remembered irrespective of Harawep’s alleged involvement in the most recent invasions.
Nazaruss Stormfall suggested that he and some of the other regulars at the Rissan Forging Society could aid the cause by crafting weapons for the new citizen militia. Strembin replied that although conscripts are usually required to provide their own arms and armor, the Council would not be averse to accepting such donations.
“I knew that we'd find good and generous folk among our Guilded brethren and sistren.”
As dawn was approaching, the Council Herald thanked everyone for their attendance and adjourned the meeting.
Simera Asherah
Assistant Reporter, The First Land Herald
421-6-20 - NEW VISIONS OF A MYSTERIOUS STONE
Sea Priestess Whiteburn has reported experiencing some new visions.
“The first instance, a burst of marine-hued light suddenly overtook my vision, accompanied with the strong smells of seawater and blood. As my senses began to clear, I heard a single word echo in my mind, ‘atulave.’”
She continued:
“Later, a violent surge of oceanic hues overtook my vision, churning as if in the midst of a storm, and I heard the screeching of hurricane-force winds. As I regained my senses, I felt compelled to search out a strange, reflective stone. I felt certain that its surface distorts all images seen within it, and that it contains many pale filaments across its form, like the threads of a spider's web. The words ‘stura atulave’ echoed over and over in my mind, slowly trailing away as if carried upon an ocean breeze.”
Both of these visions were accompanied by the expunging of bloody seawater. Whiteburn noted that while there were no clues to the stone’s whereabouts, she did have the feeling that it was something she should seek out.
Another adventurer named Gabellia reported via gwethdesuan that she too had seen a vision related to this unknown object. Mottled grey and brown hues suddenly overtook her vision, as if she had been pushed face-first into the pelt of some mangy creature. As her senses began to clear, she heard a single word echo in her mind, ‘atulave.’
Discussions with Navesi and other adventurers fluent in Gorbesh revealed the phrase stura atulave to mean something akin to “sacred face(s) changing” in that language.
Word of these visions traveled quickly, and soon several intrepid individuals were on the hunt for this stura atulave. Doctor Dianelle recommended that someone scout the Healerie; Navesi also happened upon Voyle Oracelya in the abandoned mine near Stone Clan as he scoured the area for the ominous object.
Finally, the stone was found in an unexpected way. War Healer Kerenelle picked up a Harawep favor orb and was headed to the temple when her pet jumping spider dropped a small stone into her hand. A description follows:
The opaque stone is highly reflective, but distorts images seen upon it like a funhouse mirror - even on places where it is completely smooth. Thin, pale, filament-like markings streak the surface, like the silken threads of a spider's web.
Kerenelle and her husband are of the belief that this is only a piece of the stone. Perhaps others are awaiting our discovery.
Simera Asherah
Assistant Reporter, The First Land Herald
421-6-16 - LADY LILENA DEFENDS DIRGE SOLO
I recently had a visit from local Warrior Mage Perune Nocarrain. He informed me that Lady Lilena Turmar had just defended Dirge single-handedly. As he put it, "She had been gwething for assistance to fight off a rebel gang... She said she received no assistance at all." He further told me that, in addition to no response on the gweth, numerous adventurers passed her by as she fought. He says she plans to speak to the Zoluren Council about the incident.
Nakori Dozypaws was also present at the meeting with the lady. She said, "She was alone, I think... oh! The shaman helped a bit... and she was upset that no one else helped."
Zoluren adventurers, I implore you to wield the powers of your guild in defense of our province. Listen to your gweths, and know your nobility. For a refresher, you might visit the Herald archives and look at Saragos's Guide to Current Events in Zoluren. When our people are in danger, we must respond!
Navesi Daerthon
Editor in Chief, The First Land Herald
421-6-13 - ELPALZI LIEUTENANT FAILS AT CRASHING CURTAIN CALL!
On the evening of 421/5/29, Arthe Dale found itself bustling with activity. Thespians from multiple provinces worked together to put on a performance of “Behind the Lines”, a play written by Sir Leucius Delarrazio. Under the direction of Marssi Darssi, the play was entertaining and provided much needed relief to many of the defenders of the provinces.
Actors and actresses in the play included Sendithu Shima’ionare-Remlane, Samsaren Remlane-Shima’ionare, Maltris Remlane, Morlen Ishbel, and Mistanna Redivas. Their talents weaved a tale of comedy and intrigue, poking fun at the Elpalzi and some of its leadership.*
Based on the volume of the applause during curtain call, the story that played out on stage seemed to delight most of the audience. Although, it would seem not all in attendance appreciated the talents of the troupe. Moments after the final curtain call, a voice was heard throughout the Yulugri Wala. The voice would turn out to belong to Geva Stavonark, a Lieutenant with the Elpalzi rebellion. The voice stated, “And playing the lovely Geva...oh. That’s right, I wasn’t deemed worthy enough to be in this yeehar-drivel of a play. Do I not entertain you? Clearly not, no clearly not.”
Apparently, the Lieutenant felt slighted by the content of the play and shortly thereafter a full Elpalzi attack on Arthe Dale and The Crossing commenced. Initially reported outside The Crossing’s Empath Guild, the Elpalzi forces quickly spread to the Rangers' Guild as well. Saphryna Silverwaters, a member of the Empath guild, stated “I was just outside the Empath guild, preparing to walk inside and passed a group of Elpalzi just outside the doors.” Many audience members, perhaps galvanized by the momentary respite provided by the play, rushed out to aid in the defenses.
Elpalzi instigators, bowyer, mages, deadeyes, rebels, dissidents, fomenters, toxophilites, incendiaries, hunters, sharpshooters and champions flooded the streets of the both towns, rapidly overwhelming garrison forces. Bolstering the Elpalzi attack was their liberal use of naphtha, throwing it at defenders in an attempt to cause severe burns. After a protracted battle, defenders managed to drive the Elpalzi back.
With Arthe Dale and The Crossing safe from rebel forces once again, questions remain. Despite this large attack, there were no reported sightings or encounters with Alret. We have had no reported sightings of Alret in many months, nor heard from him on the gweth Could this mean that the Elpalzi are under new leadership? Time will tell. For now, as always, we must remain vigilant in the defense of our homes.
- All portrayals of Elpalzi in “Behind the Lines” were, I assume, purely fictional and are not known to be based on actual events.
Klines Silvermist
Assistant Reporter, The First Land Herald
421-6-8 - ESTATE HOLDERS INTERRUPTED
The Estate Holders were treated to a social gathering in Fang Cove with several Estate Holder Councilors. The mostly social event was to introduce several of the members, with Councilor Tarsben Irintel of Qi'Reshalia leading the discussion. Also in attendance were Estate Holder Councilor Orethiir Dakshilo of Ilithi and Estate Holder Councilor Guhnard Hvar'Almi of Forfedhdar. Specifics were not to be found in great detail as the bureaucratic notions of council life are anything but reportable.
The meeting turned a dark corner and with it, a host of assorted mass visions were reported by the attendees. One such vision, experienced personally by this author:
For a moment, my vision dimmed, and I am certain I could hear a faint "Tick. Tick. Tick.". As my vision began to clear, I could see an ominous image of a shadowed street with small, malevolent figures scampering in and out of the light, little as there was. Abruptly, my sight and hearing returned to normal.
Moments later the area filled with animated dolls wielding tiny scythes. The defense mounted quickly, with most Estate Holders escaping the battle unharmed. Those that stayed battled with the foul creations until no more could be hunted. Unfortunately, due to their tenacity, I was only able to gaze with any studious intent at a single one of the life-like but dangerous playthings. I provide a description below.
Although once a child's well-loved toy, the knee-high little doll was covered with ugly rust-colored streaks all over its face and hands, drips of which could be seen on its once-fine clothing. It stalked about, searching out prey, and a simple little smile graced its face, an augmentation that did little to counter the madness in its eyes.
Of some note, a blessed weapon is effective against these creations, as is Protection from Evil. As for their difficulty, I estimate that the smaller, more rough-hewn dolls were the easiest, perhaps similar in ability to a young gryphon. There was a more menacing rough-hewn doll that was more difficult, perhaps akin to a warklin. Finally, the most difficult opponents were those dolls that were finely carved and had brightly glowing eyes. These I estimated to be similar to a storm bull. For more details on the dolls, see our previous article, Murder Dolls Descend on Riverhaven. Unlike a report from this past invasion, I heard no cries for bones.
Again, we see visions, perhaps an attempted warning from the divine. And yet again, we see ravenous synthetic creations streaming across a city, blade wielding and a true terror to behold. Stay safe, dear readers. The future, at least for the moment, lies dark.
Marcul McRee-Rhyian
Assistant Reporter, The First Land Herald
421-6-6 - OPPORTUNISTIC RAIDS BY PIRATES AND ELPALZI
During all of this turmoil with the Dark Gods, old foes have taken advantage of our fatigue to strike back at our beleaguered forces.
On 421-5-12 Skaen raised the alarm that pirates were raiding Riverhaven. Pfanston opined that they were “not your run of the mill ones,” and put out a request for aid.
Mistanna kindly provided transporation for at least one person to assist, and defenders converged on the city as the battle ensued. A motley assembly of sailors, bosuns, longbowmen, mariners, mercenaries, lieutenants, and crossbowmen put up a stiff battle before being defeated. In general, the invaders “looked as if they had been at sea way too long and were someone you probably wouldn't like to meet in a dark alley.”
Despite their defeat, during their retreat Pfanston reported spotting several sailors carrying chests marked with the seal of the Bank of Riverhaven and I myself spotted a golden box bearing the seal of the Mayor of Riverhaven in the arms of a bosun running past me.
The chests went unrecovered, and no confirmed sighting of an escape vessel was made. Questions were raised as to whether these were the Red Sash Pirates, but no one reported spotting their distinctive garb.
In the aftermath, several horn blasts resonated in warning from the distance near the Riverhaven East Gate signaling the appearance of attacking rebels. There was a brief skirmish in which the rebels failed to penetrate the town defenses, and the notorious Cleric of Drogor, Whiteburn was identified defending His shrine.
No sooner had this thread been dealt with but Elpalzi descended from the Reach for a quick raid on Kaerna, this time called out by Janaetta on the gweth. After a brief skirmish they were driven back as well. I arrived to find the last of the stragglers being cleaned up, and this attack did not last long.
The enemies of civilization have not failed to take notice of our preoccupation with matters of Divine significance. Keep your defenses at the ready, for they are watching us as well.
Saragos Daerthon
Reporter and Archivist, The First Land Herald
421-6-5 - FATHER SORAENT GATHERS ALL FOR GROUP VISION
Today, Father Soraent sent out a call to invite all interested parties to the High Temple in the Crossing to discuss the recent god-related events. He was particularly interested in those he called Touched, who recently experienced visions and Divine Expungements (see our previous article, Vomit from the Gods). He expressed that he wished to perform a ritual and that it would work best if many of the Touched were present.
Once we had all gathered with him in the garden of the Monks' quarters at the Temple, he asked for the Touched to step forward and share their stories. Based on the accounts given there and those given in private to the Herald, we have gathered the following information:
- Father Soraent expelled, at two different points, 1) bloody seawater and 2) a wren, dove, and a raven.
- Syaski vomited an eyeball.
- Kythera, devoted to Meraud, vomited a mole-like creature, and experienced a vision of monsters attacking innocents.
- Badarin expelled a viper.
- Kloegar vomited a stoat.
- Azante, devoted to Eluned, vomited saltwater, and experienced a vision of monsters attacking innocents.
- Sendithu, devoted to Damaris, expunged a shrike.
- Whiteburn, Chosen of Drogor, expelled blood and seawater, and experienced a vision of destruction.
- Tenike vomited a weasel-like creature, perhaps a stoat, and experienced a similar vision to others (presumably the monsters).
- Inyasa vomited an adder.
After sharing information in this way, Father Soraent proposed to begin his ritual, bidding us all to safely remove pets, then to sit down and steel ourselves. He said, "Perhaps with enough of us with the Divine Sight in one place, and the faith of the rest of you, the shadow can be pierced."
Then, Father Soraent closed his eyes and intoned a prayer I could feel more than hear. A strange, almost transcendent sensation swept over me as he continued his chant, his form appearing bolstered by the brilliant golden glow that emanated from it. With a final, solemn phrase, Father Soraent concluded his prayer and opened his eyes once more. The Holy light surrounding him slowly sank back into his body as the sounds echoed around me, leaving him looking quite mundane -- and more than a little tired.
With a start, I became aware that my surroundings had shifted, my senses co-opted by something beyond my ordinary ken! A feeling of Divine presence suffused the area, driving me forward to discern that which was being presented. Many beings, converging and separating themselves again and again with haunting rhythm, stood before me, nearly imperceptible by vision yet still concrete in my perception. As they shone in their brilliantly shifting dark-light-grey representations, nearly overwhelming me by their presence, I begin to hear a voice -- many, yet one. The voice reverberated within me, saying, "Your faith weakens deceptions, righting the strands of the web its Mistress has altered. See this for what it truly is. Seek out That which hides in Our Forms."
It was shocking to feel truly touched by the Divine. Even after I felt Them leave me, Their voices echoed in the mouths of others present.
The first, a burbling voice coming from Whiteburn, said, "The years connect…"
Then, a dark, yet comforting voice from Dianelle, "The machines begin to breathe…"
Then, with a snarl like that of a forest beast from Klines, "…and the Widowmaker claims that which was always Hers."
Then, a joyous voice from Gabellia, "The stone brings all into focus through its many distortions…"
And finally, an aged voice, crackling like lightning roared from Anlise, "I am come!"
We were all left reeling, wondering at the meaning of these messages. Many speculations were made. I will not list them here, though I encourage my readers to discuss with one another. I will say what we know for certain:
- Harawep is known as the Widowmaker, and is depicted as a hag wielding lightning. Her symbol is the Spider and she is known for weaving intricate webs of deception.
- Soon we will be visited by a giant, mechanical spider.
Navesi Daerthon
Editor in Chief, The First Land Herald
421-6-4 - THERENBOROUGH SWIMS WITH SHARKS!
Recently, the provinces have suffered a series of unusual and troubling invasions. This was continued on 421/5/30, when Therenborough found itself under attack by blue brine sharks, bull brine sharks, sharpnose brine sharks, dread great white sharks, and Stormriders. While Therenborough has been attacked by sharks in the past, this particular attack was unusual as it was not raining. Previous attacks involving Drogor’s creatures have been accompanied by some level of precipitation.
Priestess[Whiteburn, a Cleric well known for being devoted to Drogor, stated, “I have never known His Children to attack without rain to accompany them. When His Children attacked Ratha, I felt His presence. However, this time I saw and felt nothing of the Divine.” Whiteburn went on to speculate, “It is my belief that, though the Creatures were surely Divine, the Mighty Lord Drogor might not have bade them attack.”
The question of who or what sent the creatures aside, those that actively defended Therenborough indicated that the sharks and Stormriders were of the type seen previously. Etherian, one of the brave defenders, stated, “There were two Stormriders that I know of. One showed up in the first wave and one near the end. Other than that, I believe it was mostly blue brine and bull brine sharks.” Grand Inquisitor Liurilias added, “Stormriders are… the hardest [opponents]. They… resist my debilitations and are hardest to actually hit.”. Finally, Mistanna, a Moon Mage, added, “They had no weapons. They used their typical lightning attacks that harm everyone in proximity to them. Sometimes they dropped Drogor's Wrath sapphires.”
One such sapphire was provided for examination. The sapphire looks like the dark cobalt of the ocean on a moonless night, pale striations within the murky gem resembling whitecaps of a storm-wracked sea.
Klines Silvermist
Assistant Reporter, The First Land Herald
Notable Issues
416-02-32 - A Brief Guide to Current Events in Zoluren
410-07-28 — The First Defeated, Sky Clears — Spider Festival Arrives
410-07-17 — A Light of Hope is Found — Music to Bring Sunlight to Peri'el
410-07-09 — Sister Tasrhhsu Sacrificed, Recovering — Fists Continue to Erupt — Vigil for Peri'el Brings Visions
410-06-37 — Both Fists Erupt — Sister Tasrhhsu Says Peri'el Not Dead
410-06-29 — The First Claims Peri'el Slain
410-06-09 — Dergatian Chrysalis Awakens — The 'First' Attacks Crossing and Ru'atin Sister