What's New In-Game
Feralia - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
12 Mar 2023 04:30
Author: Acolyte Jaelic
During the early days of the Feralia or Festival of Ereal the Wanderer in 305YR, Acolyte Jaelic of the Nurturing Light held a traditional ritual in the Monlon Shrine.
Traditionally, this Festival heralds the beginning of the winter months when Ereal is distance from our land. Rituals are for its purpose to appease and honor the souls of the dead so that they won't harm those who are still living. Urns are often polished and placed upon the central Domus or house altar locations and honored by family.
This year, Acolyte Jaelic presented an ancient sample of funeral poetry with a dirge of mourning. He played solemn music on his lyre to accompany. The poem was as follows:
"Throughout this journey,
friends have travelled along with me;
they are too many to name here.
But suffice it to say that without them,
my sky would have been gray, cold, poorer;
My plate tasteless and my bucket meaningless.
I have learnt humility, and patience.
I have now keener eye for those I love,
fostered hope, resilience and so much more
from this journey.
And it is to the amazing people
who have been part of my life
that I owe enormous gratitude.
I look behind at the path travelled
and look ahead,
only to realize that I have merely
walked the first step.”
Those attending are reminded that at this terrible time, they are our guardians and heroes at this time. Our times are dark. However, those defending Monlon at this time encourage the distraught and are the light of our Republic.
Legality of Covers (Concealment) - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
11 Apr 2022 20:20
Author: Centurion Elowynn Damhain
**
Residents of the Republic of Iridine:
Please be reminded of the following laws as to the legality of covers. Within the Republic, both inside and outside of the city of Iridine:
- Hoods and masks are illegal, and cannot be used or possessed. These items are considered contraband, and will be seized and destroyed.
- Faceplated helmets may be used as armor that cover the wearer's face, in the midst of combat, only. Other uses of faceplated helmets, in such a way that covers the wearer's face, violate cover laws.
These laws are straightforward and longstanding. However, should questions arise, seek guidance from law enforcement from the appropriate jurisdiction.
EAGLE CENTURY, LEGIO I
**
Franlius Hunt - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
29 May 2021 21:10
Author: Jageris Aurilius
Allinius 18, 298
Our weekly outing was a wild success. Though the travel time to and from the Front was abysmal, at least it was uneventful. I really wish the republic would work on some faster systems for travelling. Maybe commission some private vessels to hurriedly move people between the Harbor and the Front. Perhaps build a Penteconter or a Hemoilia which could be commissioned for speedier travel, and have those wishing to go purchase tickets in order to pay for it. If only I had more capital and my father’s business could spare one of their scout ships, I would be rich in just a few months time. But I digress…
A large group went to Franlius, and for almost half of the group it was their first weekly hunt! I am glad the news is spreading and more folks are giving our outings a chance. I was fearful the horror that was the Rock Valley Dumps would turn people off to our adventures. Kenderaela, Thoras, Adeodatus and Naile were all first time attendees! Though sadly, Naile was left city side when the boat docked and then left, and they never seemed to get to Franlius to catch up to us. Stagtus, Bethanie, Khaitoun, and myself were also there. Oddr met us in Franlius and the healer Sethria even joined the group for a small bit part way through the fighting. Luckily, we were good enough to guard her and she sustained no injuries during the fights.
The stream of Cinerans was constant, though at no time did it ever appear too much to handle. To be fair, Oddr gave each Cineran about 4-5 chances to attack before he sent them to meet their maker. Having someone capable downing even the heaviest of troopers quickly ensured the rest of the group could focus on guarding each other while taking advantage of sweeps and stuns. The ranged fighters did well to remain disengaged, while Thoras, Oddr, Stagtus and myself quickly engaged any new arrival. The division of fighting tasks kept us efficient and most importantly, safe.
When the dust cleared, we had downed 98 cinerans in just about 2 candles. Renovatur at one point donated some loot, though I am not sure exactly what, to the group. I do know when we sold, we had a total of about 18 talents, much more than we should have for the 98 troops armor and weapons that we grabbed. The new arrivals made a good portion of coin for their efforts, so hopefully all can spend it towards things they need. And most donated their share of armbands, so whenever we finally have a games night, we have a sack of 223 armbands for some lucky person to win.
All in all, it was a wonderful outing. Franlius seems to generate a lot of interest, and is close enough to a baths and healing wards to be a relatively safe and profitable hunting area. The only trouble, is that war is never predictable….and once one begins to take known information for granted, is when the enemy quickly shows you the error of that line of thinking, usually thorough blood and death.
Rock Valley Dumps Excursion - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
27 May 2021 13:27
Author: Jageris Aurilius
Jemros 28th, 298
Our excursion began wonderfully! I am not sure if we have had a larger group for any of the other hunts. The party consisted of Stagtus, Ikirax, Bethanie, Drayke, Zerge, Oddr, Naemoria, Tulca, Tison, Amarieux, Dummae, Baccas, and myself, in so far as I can remember.
The wagon ride and walk down to the dumps was calm. I remember the road being a bit bumpier. Perhaps it was the good company and conversation that made it a more enjoyable ride. This, sadly, was an antithetical foretelling of what was to come.
Arriving at the dumps, I tried to coordinate our large group into smaller groups, so that we could branch out and explore when we were done our initial examination of the area. 2steps into the dumps area and we would be stonewalled.
8 critters, consisting of a wolverine, some rats, roaches, and a hound halted our progress. Just as we were about to vanquish the enemies, another group enter the fray. For a candle and a half, this went on non-stop, never a break in enemies swarming into the area to combat us. The wolverines proved both elusive and deadly, slipping past many guards and attacking those who were less skilled. Sadly, 2 people were knocked out on this trip. A first for my hunting and exploration parties. The weight on my heart at this has not yet subsided, even days later.
Easily, 300 hundred or more creatures were killed, and we never advanced beyond 2 paces into the dumps. We even took turns grouping corpses to drag to the exit, so others could skin them when they got tired. Even outside the dumps it was not safe, for the Barbarians began making their presence known with arrow attacks. It seemed the evening was steeped in blood, one way or another. And Rock Valley wanted violence this night, however it could be manifested.
We finished up out skinning of the creatures and took them to town to be sold. A candle and a half of constant combat, easily 6 to 8 people fighting at any given time, and our total haul was only 4 talents. Most parties agreed to waive their share of the loot to be given to the 2 newest arrivals to the city.
This trip uncovered nothing in the way of History of the area, nor did it produce any secrets or interesting tales. It was too deadly for the newest among us, even with skilled guards. For now, the Dumps will keep their hidden secrets and treasure. Maybe someday I will return to try and uncover more, but that day will not be for some time.
Road to Seld - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
21 May 2021 21:41
Author: Jageris Aurilius
Jemros 23rd, year 298
Today, Stagtus and I decided to visit Seld. We heard there were bandit traps along the way, so we took a wagon and decided to try and make some money while we walked. Sadly, we did not encounter any traps. It appears someone, an archer maybe, had beat us to the road and had cleared the way for travelers.
However, we almost did not make it. The road was littered with trash from fights and I was beginning to feel a bit peckish. I saw a food ration and inspected it. It seemed to be in good order, and I know the ones sold by Sesquiculus never go bad. Clearly, these were not the same food rations. Had I only examined it, I would have seen how awful it would be for me.
After eating the ration, I felt my stomach rumble. Within moments, I was projectile vomiting all over the road. It was so bad and so furious, that I was immobilized while heaving. Each step brought another round of vomit, and I felt my body slowly give way.
Aching, pained, and quickly tiring, I felt as if I was slowly succumbing to death. Stagtus ran ahead to Vetallun to try and secure my something to settle my violently discharging stomach. I laid down on the ground, praying no bandit happened upon me in this disastrous and immobile state. What felt like 3 eternities passed before I heard the footsteps approaching. As I looked up, Stagtus ran right past me. I gathered all my strength and yelled, quickly he made his way back to me.
He had procured me a vial of Stomach Settler and some herbed boar. I hurriedly drank the vial contents and ate as much boar as I could force down, to halt my quickly vanishing vitality. It appeared to have worked, and I gingerly regained my footing before heading back to Vetallun for a long soak in the baths.
I have learned a new lesson this day. Never eat food one finds on the road, no matter how much it looks like food you have seen before. This lesson will accompany the other unforgettable lesson, never drink ancient vials of liquid given to you by Kered.
Grey Sands Exploration - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
11 May 2021 00:16
Author: Jageris Aurilius
Grey Sands Exploration, Invex 5th, 298.
My intrigue at the sands started long ago when assisting with the building of the Seld Road. I spent many day and night filling bags of sand on the beaches outside the village. I was warned against entering, but always wished to see the insides. Subsequent visits yielded little, as I was forced back out when I was no more than a few paces into the village. I needed more help to protect me and possibly be a deterrent to aggression.
The group that went to explore the Grey Sands was very large. All in total, we had Myself, Stagtus, Zuiul, Corvo, Cobian, Flar, and Grarix. I felt very confident we would be able to fend off any aggression from the local residents. Our walk out there was uneventful, thankfully. Everyone came along to explore, so all the games and food I had gathered for the beach party has gone to waste. I will salvage what I can for our Carnival night, which I still need to plan. I should really get to that soon. But I digress…
Upon arriving, we were no more than 4 steps into the village before the sailors and marines began assailing us. We fought them off and continued exploring. We found an office building with a second floor overlooking the village. We also found a burnt out villa, with no indication of what caused the fire or how long ago it had raged.
We made our way to the docks on the north side of the village. There, we encountered a drunk sailor milling around. We attacked, as we were accustomed to from previous encounters, but this sailor was different. He began speaking to us so we ceased hostilities. He angrily slurred that he was not going to “invite us to the party.” More of his friends arrived and in the heat of battle, he was knocked out. Searching him revealed a key. I stitched him up and carried him along with us. Cobian took the key and we began to continue our exploration. We heard merriment and song carried on drunken voices ring out from the east. After much investigation, we found the source, and the key granted us access.
Upon opening the door, we found drunk and celebrating sailors and marines. We laid their injured friend down and began to greet them. Our words fell mostly on deaf ears, as their anger was at our intrusion. No amount of apologizing, nor assurances of peace steadied their own hands. We were forced to fight and fight we did. In dizzying arrays of metal, stave and whip, they fell before us with little threat to our own. Cobian was the only casualty, though I feel his bleeds were from lucky strikes rather than skilled maneuvers. We searched the room, revealing locked coffers and chests. As Stagtus worked to open them, the rest of us remained on guard. More and more sailors poured in, until finally, we heard the door close and lock behind us. Luckily, we had the key, so the effort was futile on their part. Banging on the wall, followed by shouts of “Keep it down” and “You are ruining the Party” assailed us. They even threatened to send “Brutus” in after us, whoever that was. We dispatched the final ruffians and took what we had found with us back to the beach. We fought our way, mobbed by up to 8 sailors and marines at one time. Covering each other’s movements, we dispatched many, then fled to the beach to return to Iridine.
Sadly, I learned nothing of the history of the village, nor did I find anything of note for future generations, except that the locals are not fond of people in their midst. Another expedition may result in more uncovered information, though I will put that off until another season. Perhaps when it is colder, they might huddle in their shacks and be less inclined to venture forth to greet our inspections.
Aera Temple Exploration - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
11 May 2021 00:12
Author: Jageris
Palut 12th, 298
Through my wanderings in the city, I came across a strange location southeast of where many folks hunt for dog food, the Rat Pits. I knew the Aralax Caverns were to the southwest, but I knew nothing of the corridors that led to the southeast. Upon my first visit, I found many strange rooms and dilapidated structures, as if an old city was buried under the newer one.
I took Stagtus along for a second visit, diving further into the area with a bit more investigation. We found a pit, filled with red sand. No doubt a gladiator arena for blood and sweat. We found a small altar to Aera, a war deity. And an ancient furnace, which lit seemingly without fuel, but burned hot enough to forge weapons. There was a flooded bedroom with a rotting old chest, whose lid could be forced open. When one forces it open, a grinding sounds somewhere deeper into the area. He and I could not find the source of the grinding noise, sadly.
There was another room with a rotting scroll rack and air thick with some foreign substance. So much so, it was hard to even breathe inside without covering one’s mouth with hand or cloth. We ventured further into the ruins, if you could call them that, until we found a stairwell leading downwards. Deep into the underside of the city we went, accosted only by the occasional rat.
On the bottom floor was unlike anything I had ever seen. A carved out hallway led to a dead end where a silver streak ran along the floor. The color change in the walls was apparent, though still unexplained. Why the sudden stop of carving it out?
The real mystery is further down the corridor, where you come to a large, open room. Inside the room is a perfectly circular mirror, flanked on either side by large columns. The mirror is beautiful, the surface shimmering as the light catches it at different angles. There is nothing else in the room. No placards or parchments, nor artwork, nothing. Only the mirror and the columns.
During one such exploration, Stagtus and I enlisted the help of the party gathered for our monthly outings. I sadly can not remember all those who aided, but we had a large party of at least 8. We investigated each area, meticulously searching each nook and cranny for any clues of the history or purpose of the area. Sadly, out examinations yielded no fruit….the mysteries still remain. We posted one person at all major locations throughout the temple complex, but when the chest was opened and the grinding noise commenced, no one outside the room heard a thing. None had a clue about the mirror, tunnels, or anything inside the temple. One suggestion was to have someone visit the mirror in Monlon, at the same time someone visited the mirror in the lower level, to see if perhaps they were connected. That experiment will have to wait for another day, though I eagerly await the results!
Another small piece of my home city cloaked in a seemingly invulnerable shroud of mystery. I shall research the subject more in the library. One day we will uncover the histories of these places for all to know and enjoy. I will not let the ravages of time take away our rich and beautiful past.
- Jageris
Monlon Volunteer Guard Patrol Log - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
13 Apr 2021 06:07
Author: Godo, Captain of the Guard
1st day of Tulcas in the 298th Year of the Republic [04/08/2020]
It was the first of Tulcas, my least favorite of my least favorite month of the year. Nothing good ever happens on the firsts, and never in Tulcas. I slowly made my way to Hobbe's to look at some new boots, but could not handle his cheerful disposition long enough to make a decision. That was when I encountered a Vigile going red-faced in some type of shouting-staring contest with Ahirom. I knew the poor Vigile would lose, and walked over to inform him.
"…not seen in DAYS! What do you mean you don't know? HOW do you NOT KNOW?!" he shrieked, spittle flying from his mouth into Ahirom's shiny clean-shaved face. I don't think he noticed, let alone cared. "What seems to be the trouble here?" I chuckled with authority, hoping the mere flash of a purple armband would defuse the situation. A Guard had recently been arrested for indecent exposure and I wanted to avoid it becoming a trend, or records of my own past dalliances to be thrust into the public spotlight. The Vigile turned his gaze to me and whined, "And the worst part is I'm not even supposed TO BE HERE today!"
The officer explained he was filling in for another man who had not been seen in several days. He was supposed to play in some sporting league with other off-duty Vigiles but the game would now have to be post-poned. I reassured him the Guard would look into the case of the missing Vigile and that he could go about his day, he attempted to correct me that without the other Vigile he would be forced to work a full shift but I strategically walked away. That wasn't important anymore, because now I was getting hungry. I knew today was going to be a bad day. I asked Ahirom to join me on the search (for a meal), and he, I assume, agreed by slightly inclining his head in such a way that the light caught his eye in an odd twinkle.
I stopped into Valanai's leather shop, I knew she always kept a bottle or two of wine behind the counter for preferred customers, where I encountered Elseren, Oddr, and Nartireo selling their haul from a patrol they took without their dear Captain. I offered to let this transgression slide if they distracted Valanai while I downed two or three crackled bottles of foul-smelling wine, and they reluctantly agreed. No longer hungry, I lead our now well-formed search party out of the town. I felt a need for some fresh air after all that wine, and decided we should start by hiking the trail up the rockslide.
Signed - Godo, Captain of the Guard
Tragedy In Franlius - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
04 Apr 2021 07:14
Author: Jageris
Scran 5th, Evening
Tragedy struck Franilus today, as there was a surge in attacks by Cineran forces. Dozens of troops rushed the Legio protected areas, even getting so far as to the Republic docks. Citizens of Franilus who remained behind said they had not seen a push like that in many years.
“They just kept coming. I saw a few even rest in our baths at one point! Now we have to drain the baths and refill them, to get rid of the Cineran Stench!” a local man told us. Another local resident reported, “They kept rushing the docks, group after group. Thankfully that salt old sailor there knew what to do with them! I saw him down at least 10 Cinerans without much effort. A hero, truly….maybe not the one we hoped for, but the one we needed when times were tough.”
Sadly, casualties piled up on both sides, leaving many corpses scattered all around. One adventurer group in the area had the unfortunate luck of meeting a group of Cinerans head-on. Our heroic young fighters were caught unawares by a gang of ruthless Cinerans invading the northwestern battlezone. Most of the adventurers made it to safety, unfortunately one healer was not so lucky. Their name has been withheld due to privacy concerns.
Reports indicate as many as 8 Cineran troops surround the young healer and beat them unconscious. In a sickening display of aggression, they paraded their unresponsive body to the gates of the Iridine Force’s Stronghold. Local authorities closed the Gate for safety, unknowing that one of their own was trapped on the other side. Taunting the troops inside as they did, they dropped the healer’s body at the foot of the Gate.
Is there no end to Cineran brutality and aggression? When we will we finally see peace in Franilus? Hopefully the Legio has an answer to this horrific aggression.
- Jageris
Colosseum Attended By Odd Locals - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
04 Apr 2021 07:14
Author: Jageris
Scran 4th, Evening
Denizens of the Steps left the confines of their normal haunts to descend upon the Arena this weekend. As many as 7 or 8 were seen leaving the Steps and filling the stands of the Arena. Generally not known for venturing out of the Steps, we caught up with a few to see what caused the exodus.
“I just wanted a change, you know. The Gardens are fun, but it gets boring wandering around for people to attack. I wanted a day of vacation to just watch someone else fight!” one Denizen said.
“I heard about this guy, Herian, from a few of our buddies, so I wanted to see what he had, “ a rough-looking denizen said, “He was magnificent. I watched him down 2 gladiators without breaking a sweat. I think he was reading a book during the fight, it looked so easy.”|
One denizen asked, "I thought faceplates were illegal? How come like 4 outta 5 people in there was wearing one? I want to see your face when you fight, so I can be entertained. Hiding is just silly!"
The denizens appear to have all gone back to the Steps for now, but one must wonder, is this the sort of shared outing that could lead to reconciliation between residents of both areas? Only time will tell.
- Jageris
Pantless Bandits - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
04 Apr 2021 07:13
Author: Jageris
Scran 4th, Mid-day
Yarp and an unidentified male, 2 bandits, were seen moving around the Traevant Woods in an apparent attempt to find pants. The two men, ages undisclosed, were seen along Vetallun Road, engaged in a fight with the caravan. Eye witnesses said the two men were standing on the road when the caravan happened upon them. The bandits asked the drover if he had any pants for sale, but the drover began assaulting them and yelling “We are under attack.” Yarp fell during the altercation, but we caught up with the unidentified bandit for questioning. He wished to remain anonymous.
“We just wanted some pants,” the man stated, “And when we asked the drover he began hitting us and telling his guards to attack. I never felt so violated before.” When asked why he felt that way, he responded, “Have you ever been attacked just because you were dressed a certain way or looked a certain way? No….thats what I thought, city-folk are so clueless.”
It is unclear why the men were missing pants in the first place. But for now, the pantless bandits in the woods seem to have gone into hiding.
- Jageris
A Summary of the Execution of Glern - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
08 Feb 2021 20:25
Author: Elowynn Damhain, Eagle Century, Rearing Stallion
16 Invex, 297 YOTR
Location: Campus Martius
Present: Legionaries Elowynn, Hizerimus, Daydro, Prydain, Ephistus, Hoenheim, Mavro and a squadron of Legio I; Constables Lelex, Kyna, Quinlen, Veridio; civilians Roq, Gurthum, Nartireo, Bethanie, Stagtus, Nyxus, Resi, Demios, Jageris, Syden, Zuiul, Sigo, Vakrend, Elvae, Treaa, Jaelic, Ikrax, Kered, Cobian, Owin, Nereza, Vrae and others.
Subject: Glern
Ahead of the execution, Legionaries scouted the area, along with our allies from the Traevant Militia, should any bandit action to rescue their brethren Glern be undertaken. No such activity occurred.
By order of the Senate, the prisoner Glern was executed by drawing and quartering by soldiers of Legio I. Legionary Prydain administered lashes upon the prisoner's bare back until the prisoner fell unconscious, whereupon the prisoner was once again roused to meet his end. The prisoner's limbs were each tied to the harnesses of four horses, who proceeded upon the orders of their Legion handlers to rend Glern into four different directions. His torso was perforated by a well handled knife pull; thereafter, the horses were commanded to complete their task by tearing Glern limb from limb. His torso split partially asunder and spilled his innards upon the ground.
Civilians were attentive and respectful for the most part, providing interested commentary on Glern’s last moments, though perhaps seemed unaware of Glern's identity or deeds. Nothing Glern did or said is worth mention.
The remains of the bandit were shoveled upon a pyre, and reduced to nothing but ash, disappointing the hovering flock of scavenger birds. The stench of burning flesh permeated the area, including the clothing of those gathered. Acolyte Jaelic was heard to claim the ashes for Cult rituals.
The Senate has communicated the following future intent: bandits from his group shall be executed behind closed doors, without spectacle. Glern's death was made public to give all a chance to observe justice be carried out, and to provide warning - however, it is unlikely his fellow criminals, or even Glern, learned anything from the effort.
Elowynn Damhain
Eagle Century, Rearing Stallion
Legio I
Monlon Volunteer Guard Patrol Log - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
26 Dec 2020 19:49
Author: Godo, Captain of the Guard
5th day of The Festival of Morning in the 297th Year of the Republic [12/17/2020]
I sneak into the kitchen at the Wayfarer for a snack and plan to discreetly make my way back to Monlon before any early-arriving Guard notice I am missing, when Valerie, Maitland, and Yumruk ambush me near the start of the Road to Vetallun. I play it off like it was all part of the plan when Jaelic, Vakrend, and dozens of others show up with a fragile bird-like woman that hopes to have a picnic and do some sight-seeing at the Temple in Monlon, or something like that. I offer the services of the Guard as escort for this procession, which both gives them something to do and distracts them from my unexpected presence in Iridine - continuing the trend of my total lack of planning ahead working in my favor.
We take an uneventful ferry ride to the Holy City, as they often tend to be since the ferrymaster has banned me from playing my lyre. We float past the same bunch of farmers in Darpen birthing their thousandth calf of the season, which should finally earn them the 'most calves' trophy they've long sought. As we depart the ferry, I quickly instruct the Guard to follow Jaelic, thus deflecting any responsibility to lead the procession towards the Temple, and Jaelic, in turn, instructs everyone to follow the fragile bird-like woman, thus shielding himself from the same responsibility. This is a man of dangerous intellect, I will watch him closely.
Leading us to the Temple, the woman places some jars of what I assume to be preserved foods and powdered spices onto a large table before asking us to share in some snacks. I was about to grab a jar with what I assume was a particularly tasty apple preserve when she hastily returned everything from the table to a large sack fastened securely on her belt. I did not understand why she would offer refreshments and pull them away at the last moment, but I'm glad nobody else got to eat anything either. We follow her down several steps into a dank cave full of bats, where everyone gets to take a turn placing a jar into holes in the floor. I make a mental note of which jars may have contained something especially delicious so that I may return later and try it for myself.
Completing this disappointing journey into the bowels of the Temple, that was bereft of snacks, the Guard get back to our usual business. We investigate mysterious goings-on at the abandoned Vigile Fort amongst the Rockslide, where Jaelic attempts to take a pungopiscor as a pet. While I am whole-heartedly for keeping one domestically, I inform him that scorpion-law in the Republic is not governed by reason and there is no way he's allowed to keep one as a pet. He looked at me with those dead eyes of his and said something forgettable. Having grown bored of the unsovable mysteries within the abadoned outpost, we made our way to the Ravines.
Determined to find the source of laughter from our past patrol, as I hate being left out of a good joke, I ordered the Guard to stay close together and make a clean sweep through. I didn't want one of them to hear it without me as I can't count on their ability to retell it to me later, and an imperfect retelling could render the joke totally unfunny. We searched high and low but could not find a single person to question on this matter, or at least none that were responsive by the time I remembered why we had gone out there in the first place.
Signed - Godo, Captain of the Guard
The Boars of Spring and other times, too - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
21 Dec 2020 21:49
Author: Cult of Ereal, Acolyte Jaelic
Across the forests of our land, from Blackvine to farther Rock Valley, boars can be found digging and searching for those juicy Spring tubers. In the past, records have shown at least four types of boars: the Razorback with it's bristly black hide, the Grizzly boar with it's large colorful red spotted fur, the Red boar with it's name sake bristly red fur, and the more common Wild boar with the dark brown bristly fur.
During these days of Ereal, Scran and Tulcus until the Festival of Armilustrium, the Cult of Ereal, Nurturing Light Sect, would like assistance on tracking the location, and time of day that the rarer Boar breeds can be found. Specifically, we would like information on where and when the Razorback, the Grizzly and the Red boars are found and culled. Financial rewards will be given to those who can hand in a fresh boar hide with location and time of day that it was killed.
Beyond the above, if one is able to find, kill and provide information an unique unknown boar species with hide evidence, a reward of 10 talents will be given.
Please refer to Acolyte Jaelic of the Nurturing Light Sect for more information.
The Grand Monlon Procession - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
18 Dec 2020 22:18
Author: Cult of Ereal, Acolyte Jaelic
In the early days of 297YR, the Cult of Ereal had it's annual pilgrimage procession to Monlon. This sacred ritual includes carrying the ashes of known, mourned and lost during the previous year. This occasion was led by both Aezenor and Jaelic of the Cult.
Departing from the eastern checkpoint of the city with a small group of followers, both Aezenor and Jaelic respectfully trekked to Vetallun, using gong and incense to announce their way. They were undisturbed by the forest bandits and dangers lurking nearby.
As the column of mourners arrived in Vetallun, Magistrate Aketoros greeted them briefly as persons arrived and added to the sacred march.
Eventually arriving at the great temple of Monlon, final respects were paid to the 'unknown' dead. Those who had passed away quietly in the Light but left behind family, friends and lovers.. Afterward, the urns of those collected from the previous year were placed upon the onyx altar at the entrance of the Temple. Crowning prayers and ritual remembrances for those ashed were carried out by the two Acolytes.
Finally, members of great mourning entered the Sacred place of rest for the urns. Finding an appropriate niche, those who participated in the march were invited to take an urn and place it in a place of final rest and safety. After some viewing of the area and peeking inside niches of the past, the large group returned to the onyx altar where they eventually disbanded to other endeavors.
Those who participated, besides the members of the Ereal Cult, included Aoden, Astelle, Demios, Ahirom, Stranus, Constable Nerwintok, Yumruk, Valerie, Eltariel, Cyria, Vakrend, Godo, and Maitland and Kierstaad.
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Monlon Volunteer Guard Patrol Log - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
13 Dec 2020 23:47
Author: Godo
10th day of Rindak in the 296th Year of the Republic [12/10/2020]
I made my pre-muster rounds before the Guard arrived. I like to stroll through my city to keep an eye on things. Arbitio has just finished baking a fresh batch of bread, so I pop in to try some. I spit it out because I'm sick of it, it's the same recipe he's been using for over a hundred years. Rook and Rontubius incessantly bicker in their shop as I pass by, overhearing "…we don't know whose it was, that's inconclusive…" as I make my way to the Lost Amulet. Mankus is wiping his filthy bar with an even filthier rag. I sit down on a bar stool and looks up at me with that dreamy moonface of his, waiting for my order. I tell him I'll have the usual. He says he doesn't know what that means. So I tell him I'll have something unusual. He pulls out a massive live eel from behind the bar and places it down in front of me. I go to pick it up for a bite when it hisses and nips at my hand before squirming basck behind the bar. I leave without paying.
Now its later in the early morning, so I head back to the Fort. Vakrend is the first to arrive, followed by Timithius and Ahirom. I outline the five year plan for the MVG in detail, including milestones and stretch goals. Timithius asks an intelligent, direct question which I dodge with non-answers. Ahirom nods along vacantly and stares at the flagpole, I never know what he's thinking. Vakrend tugs gently at the edges of his gauntlets.
I lead us into the Ravines, and by us - I mean Vakrend and myself. We hear voices coming from inside the hideout that is nestled within the ridges of the ravines and decide to split up so we can gather information. I assign Vakrend to take the more dangerous path around the back so I can enter through the much more accessible front. I press my ear to the door, hearing coarse laughter and creaky floorboards. I continue listening until I hear loud shouts and what sounds like a large struggle. I recognize Vakrend's mighty battlecry and continue to wait. Once I feel like it will be dramatic enough, I burst through the door and bash the first head I see with my double mace, causing an outlaw to slump into a stinky pile of dead meat at my feet.
Vakrend is surrounded by a bunch of barefoot, naked men with raincoats on, jabbing at him with their knives. I see Vakrend leaving bloody bootprints as he punches and kicks his way through the melee, confirming that I did indeed select the most dramatic moment to make my appearance. We quickly dispatch with these outlaws but are unable to learn what they were laughing about earlier. We make our way back to the Fort and ask Ahirom to help with Vakrend's bloody foot, only to be met with his vacant nod once more.
Signed - Godo, Captain of the Guard
The Stand of Oaks - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
11 Dec 2020 07:36
Author: Jaelic
Late Autumn 296
Building a shelter and setting snares about the old mysterious round table area has been a tradition of many hunters / outdoors people. Stories go back about human sacrifices upon the Table. There are fragments of lore and forgotten knowledge about the origin of the ancient flat slab of granite painted with repeating designs of crescents and spheres. Yet once, it has been the gathering place of many hunters who shared knowledge and experiences in the greater wild. It is a remembrance point for those hiking or traveling to the swamps or north of the Traevant forest.
Late Autumn sees the silent scream of a solitary leave fluttering and shivering in the wind. Most go out in a blaze of orange, red or yellow having brought life and moisture to it's maker, the tree. Around such grand Oaks one will find an abundance of foxes. Their pelts, too, bear the deep colors of deep and light red and orange. Such is the season of purposeful wonder and glorious color before the great rest and sleep of Winter. Roaming as they can among the fallen leaves, keen foxes cannot escape the sapling snares hidden.
Other creatures bountifully found are porcupine and skunk. Unlike the omnivorous fox, they look solely for berry food and other munchies within lower bushes nesting under the mighty oaks. Additionally, common squirrels, with their soft small pelts, and other rodent types can be lured into a simpler cord and a branch.
There will be no lack of skinning or pelts for the late Autumn trapper who can bear the coming cold. Those seeking larger creatures might be encouraged to seek elsewhere, as rarely will one find a roaming ewe or ram nearby.
Present Rat Plague Symptoms and Effects - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
11 Dec 2020 05:05
Author: Cult of Ereal, Acolyte Jaelic
During the Festival of the Evening, YR 296
F. mentioned that he got scratched by a rat and developed a serious form of the present rat plague. He claims that it almost killed him.
He declared that, “The medics couldn't help me and there was no acolytes around.” His symptoms included high fevers and respiratory problems in his lungs. Also, Body aches and fatigue were present. Worse was the fact that he stated, “I couldn't even think I was so weakened.”
The Cult has developed and provided antidotes for such diseases in the past from our supply of herbs and flora. There are a few suggestions that I could make for a remedy for the present rat wounds that would cut down on infection. One is a certain collected moss found about the Blackvine forest area and eastward. It has been fully inspected by the Nurturing Light as a medical moss capable of clotting blood and hindering infection on wounds. Another, more well known ivy called Sleeping Sarah. It's name comes from the ability to reduce pain by numbing. It is used by rubbing against the skin.
The Spider's Tummy - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
11 Dec 2020 05:05
Author: Cult of Ereal, Acolyte Jaelic
Afternoon 16th Allinius 296YR
A person named A. called out for a live skinner to assist in the center of Rock Valley village. Arriving I found him speaking Iridinian and holding onto a corpse of a large pale spider, covered in twisted black veins with shriveled milky-white eyes. He had never seen one before. He confessed that "I was jumped by the men down there, but was able to hold them off. Then I saw that these matched the markings on the wall." A. said, "Then this beast came out.", and that "This is all foreign and strange to me. It's stomach was gurgling.” Never a good sign.
After skinning the spider's two stomach, we found them filled with a rotting human finger, a human eyeball, a severed human arm, and a shredded human leg, severed human arm, a severed human arm, a severed human arm, an old bronze anklet set with beads of tourmalined topaz, and a large glassy stone with forked black lines. Obviously, the beastie had a taste for human flesh. The Cult of Ereal has received these type of human parts before, but was not fully aware of their origin.
It will be my duty to help this poor soul to find rest in the pyre of Ereal. As a precaution, I called out publicly for residents of the area to be careful underground when encountering such hungry corrupted spiders.
The poisoned Iridinian Soldiers - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
09 Dec 2020 17:48
Author: Cult of Ereal, Acolyte Jaelic
During the predawn hours of 3rd Rindak, two soldiers bodies were brought to the Temple of the Morning for rituals in preparation for the annual urn procession to Holy Monlon. Both soldiers fell under the wicked bandaging hand of Lucretia.
Accompanied by Constables Samthia and Veridio, Acolyte Jaelic performed the release of the two soldier's from this life. While under the Sacred vast ceremonial chamber, gong and rising perfume ushered along the sacred pyre rite. Prayers and instruction were given as those present also carry the burden of the medallion in service of the Republic. Emotions were heavy as reminders were laid out about trusting others. In this case, trust resulted in death.
Both soldiers were burned with a clean robe of the Cult of Ereal in coverage and with armor, weapons and a standard token of their service. Their ashes shall be duly carried to Monlon for a fitting rest place.
Lucretia - %%date|%e %b% '%y%
09 Dec 2020 17:47
Author: Cult of Ereal, Acolyte Jaelic
On about the Festival of the Evening 296YR, an strange and evil occurrence happened in the Temple Hospice of the city. This coincided with certain red and black orbs being found from the Hospice entrance to around the city. It is said even at the Toga Inn, they were found. Touching the red orbs brought about Fire hounds, it is reported; and the black ones delivered eyeless shadowy humanoids.
At the time some brave strong warriors were overcome, including some Iridinian soldiers off duty inside the city. Many came out to stifle the rush of monsters from the other side. Therisifuss and others went limp. Calling for a healer, a certain healer, Lucretia, answered the call. However, she was not what she seemed.
Acting as healer, she applied bandages upon the fallen; however, those bandages were antiseptic and touched with some else – poison. Those who had bandages placed upon their wounds died. Therisifuss and at least two soldiers were among them. Others were still in a coma at the time of this writing. Whether Lucretia wrapped these in poisonous bandages, as well, is still unclear.
Concerning Lucretia, she escaped escaped by mean of a barrel shipped to Franlius. From there, she used a row boat to escape her punishment. Among those who saw her flee were Syden. Both soldiers and constables vowed that if she shows her face again, that there would no mercy upon her.
About the orbs, former Revealing Light member Parlin discovered a way to disarm them without harm. Thus, it is best to have an Acolyte of the Ereal Cult present to make the attempt. It is not always successful. Beyond that, it is best that the “least” accomplish warrior touch the orb. Such corrupted things tend to take the traits and abilities of those that disturb them.
