Name: Gharak'Yar
Race: Uruk
Type of shaman: Farseer
Teachers: (Kybal'Akaal), Ember

The new Rex Klog'Gorkil has risen to the throne after winning the Rex Klomps.
As always in times of change, and of new government, the future of the Horde hides behind a veil of uncertainty.
 

Those times call for great union of orcs; to show we are one against the buurz of this world. A great reaffirmation of our spiritualist values, the respect we have for the way of Krug, and the way of Spirits.

I call brothers, sisters, and friends of the orcs to a great feast on next sun’s smile. We will drink, and eat, and smoke cactus green to honor Ghoraza, spirit of travel and fortune; and if someone wants to prove their worth as Grubgoth, please get in touch with me.
 

May the spirits guide you;
Lûp-Ilzgûlhai, Lûp-Ghoraza

Yargoth Gharak'Yar

 

Newspapers are spread throughout Aevos.

They’re made of two sheets of cheap paper, simply stacked and folded together and yet they are

surprisingly colorful, with doodles and familiar drawings! Could this be… no way!
The return of

Issue Azhty’H’Futh (XIX) — Azh’Kint’H’Azh’ty’H’Futh (CLIX) D.A.

ORC POLITICS

A Vampire in Orcgrimmar

Many orcish readers might know Bug, the pale-green uruk. I myself have known him for a few years, and he has been, to me, like any other bruddah. However, recent Spook-testing by our Krimpgoth Gnarla’Vukh revealed that he was infected by the vampiric curse. He unfortunately resisted his arrest, wounding many orcs. For the safety of all those present, he was therefore killed.

However, it seems that monks came by, and brought Bug back to life. Indeed, Elena of Joma, a friend and Paladin, told me that she found Bug “lying on the ground, covered in gore” in Lurin, “paralyzed from the neck down”; likely the result of a fight. Then, he accepted to be cured —though, admittedly, he did not have much of a choice. “He said he had been infected for… about 4 or 5 cactus weeks, so it was within the 12 year period one has before it’s too late to be cured.” she explained.

 “Descendants turn into vampires by consuming a vampire’s blood.” — “I’ve known some to have been forced to do so,” and according to her, in some cases, “the social stigma of being cursed and the difficulty in seeking help” can make it complicated to get cured. Some can be “under the eyes of a whole coven of vampires, and feel that their safety is threatened should they seek treatment.”

Gnarla told me that Bug seemed genuinely confused, and distressed by the whole situation. She held similar assumptions, deeming that he was probably forced into his situation. Though I have not been able to get in touch with Bug to hear his version of the story, it therefore seems that he had no choice in this, and is not buurz himself.

Regarding the prevention of future cases, Elena advised: “the main way to test if someone is a vampire is through testing their freshly cut wounds with salt. If it boils, then they’re a vampire.” — “Fangs and claws can be unseen, so they are no good way of finding out.” — “Refrain from travelling alone, as they often attack solitary wanderers… and if you suspect someone to be a vampire, do never confront them alone!” she insisted.

FOREIGN AFFAIRS

Wagh upon the Sand-Elves

I should begin this article by stating that my heart is weighed in the following matters. Our elder Madoc’Lur is a friend to me, and I am a part of the Shaman Lodge; though not once has it bothered me in my duties as Shaman, Skriptgoth, Yargoth, or writer of the Kaktuz Weekli. Yet, I seek to uncover and speak the truth; may each of my words be a praise to Theruz.
—Gharak'Yar

One might say the conflict between orcs and Atemu-ta's kin dates back to the times of Rex Kybal’Akaal, over 4 cactus months ago. The lads, as they were known, lived in Krugmar, and were taught shamanic ways after becoming honorary orcs. Atemu-Ta, who recently spread extensive propaganda across the continent, claims he was mistreated back then. This could be true. Perhaps, he was treated like an orc, and strength was expected of him where he did not have it. An orc facing injustice doesn’t merely write, or speak of it; he fights, and removes it. Atemu-Ta, being incapable or perhaps refusing such boldness, proved to not be an orc. And so, he was no longer called an orc.

He saw this as another injustice. Yet again, he refused to fight it; he did not defend his views, refused challenges and klomps, calling upon his own moral values. To refuse orcish ways in orcish land is to set oneself up for a beating. His sister, trying to protect him, entered a klomp he was losing to honour his principles. She was killed. To interrupt a klomp is to deny both fighters their honour. Destroyed by this, he left Krugmar. Orcs do not mind that elves be elves in elven lands. Atemu-Ta was clearly not an orc, and trying to join a Horde made for orcs was his mistake. Rex Grommash, who now rules upon the Hordelands, pardoned the enemies of the Horde upon accessing the throne.

Yet, Atemu-Ta and his Rah’Mun people did not cut all his ties with orcs. Their shamans kept worshipping our spirits. I have witnessed their undoubtedly elvish ways in this art, when I tried to give his people a fair chance. I too, of course, felt sorry for the mourning pharaoh. Yet in their shrines I found our spirits twisted with untrue, elvish names. Old Blah, the language of the spirits, must only be used to speak truth; to speak wrong names is a travesty, a betrayal. It is the precise reason why this tongue is so closely guarded. But they did not only insult the spirits in their own land. They built a shrine on land which, as decided in the previous Southern Summit, belonged to the Qualasheen. This triggered a holy war.

Motsham Madoc’Lur has been working on gathering the shamans to guard them from falling into the arms of buurz like they have in the past. Is it unfair to ask that shamans, keepers of our ways, hold an eye on each other? That they make sure none stray away? Another injustice upon Atemu-Ta, who clings to his absolute freedom. His inalienable right to turn buurz, perhaps. He has declared that Madoc’Lur’s attempt to keep shamans away from buurzdom in the Lodge is isfetian —that is to say, in their tongue, buurz. And so, with this final insult, the Iron Horde joined the Qualasheen in their war against the mad pharaoh.
 

ORCISH CULTURE

Spiritualism: Meet Addâgse

The spirits are central to the orcish culture. They live in their respective realm, neatly separated from the mortal plane— we are told.
And so I believed, until a few years ago, as I wandered the great deserts of Krugmar, a hundred miles away from any other descendant. So, I believed, until Addâgse wandered Aevos for a year, and my path met his.
 

Addâgse, I think —for I could never understand the answers he gave to my questions— is the spirit of childhood and innocence. I could not, despite my attempts, determine who Addâgse was lesser under, but I did find that he carried a great deal of wisdom, and many secrets.
 

“Please— You draw me a sheep!” Are the words I heard. I was somewhere, nowhere in the lonely and harsh desert. Yet, he was there. He looked like an extraordinary halfling, with locks of gold and wearing a long, green robe. He had tiny glistening eyes that seemed to look deeply into my being, through my soul, probing my very existence.
 

“Please— You draw me a sheep!” He called again. And I had to comply, for one does not refuse a quest bestowed by the spirits, no matter how measly or seemingly meaningless. He taught me, with all the excruciating patience required to teach grown-ups, the meaning of important things, and the lies of what seems. (Here, I am having to simplify, for many of my readers are grown-ups too.)

He told me of those he met on his journey through Aevos; meaningful encounters, and meaningless encounters; the fox who he tamed, and the flower who had tamed him; the one who counts the stars, and those who watch the stars, and me who now listens to them.

I have attempted to draw Addâgse— so that you may recognize him, should he ever roam Aevos again. And if he does, and you meet him, please make sure to send me a letter; for I do believe that he has tamed me too. And if you too wish to know him better, seek the books on the Little Spirit in the Ancestral Archives of Orgrimmar; there, I have compiled his story in much more detail than I can do here.

PEEP DIZ!

Breasal Nimblefoot’s Birthday

Our dear friend Breasal Nimblefoot is having his 100th birthday, and will be hosting a great party in Dunwen!

He has promised drinking, dancing, and games; and like any halfling party, we are convinced this will be one zkah of a time!
The party will start on the third cactus hour of the eastern afternoon.

On The Kaktuz

You must have noticed that the Kaktuz Weekli has not been published in the last couple cactus weeks. It is because I have been on a journey, a self-exile into the desert. It is in fact there that I have met Addâgse. I am happy to announce that I am back, strengthened, wisened, and ready to face life with all my might.

As announced, a new section was added to the Kaktuz Weekli; PEEP DIZ! It will hold things we think deserve to be spread across Aevos, or possibly advertisements. Paid advertisements will of course be flagged as such. Please get in touch with anyone in our team ((or better, leave your message below!)) if you wish to have a message in this section of the next issue!

The Team

Informant — Spuds @Turbo_Dog

Writer — Gharak’Yar @Gomoore

Illustrator & Head publisher — Gharak’Yar

(He’s lying, he isn’t aware that if the magic is shelved, it will be unavailable to use)

MC Name:

         Gomoore

Character's Name:

         Gharak'Yar

Character's Age:

         75

Character's Race:

         Orc

Link to your accepted MA:

         https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/225192-shamanism-ma-gomoore/

What magic(s) will you be teaching?

         Shamanism (Farseeing)

Describe this magic or a creature as a whole:

Shamanism is both a cultural practice and a magical art.
Farseeing is one branch of that magical art; it relies on cooperating with the spirits who reside in the immortal and elemental planes, and creating bridges to let them affect the souls of those in the mortal plane, where LotCers play.

One of such bridges is simply communication. Farseers can visit the immortal and elemental planes (though they can’t go to the ancestral realm, where the souls of dead spiritualists ascend) and bring other mortals with them. There, the player playing the shaman can RP as a spirit; giving insight, advice, or be a prick and be very demanding of the mortals— depending on the spirit and their individual personality.

To gain their magical powers, farseers calibrate their lives to gain favors from the spirits; either through dedicated worship, or through bargaining. Once a mutually beneficial relation is established, a farseer can channel the powers of those spirits into the material plane.
It should be noted that the power never truly belongs to shaman, it is more like borrowed. Thus, shamans can lose their powers if they displease the spirits and must be dedicated spiritualists. Even spirit walking is done with the powers of the spirit they are visiting; upon the shaman’s request, the spirit will use their powers to transport the souls of the mortals out of their bodies into their own realm.

Are there different sections or subsections of magic? Can those be elaborated upon?

Farseeing itself doesn’t have subsections, as it already is a subsection of Shamanism.

Their roles in RP can, however, be separated into a few sections.

The arguably most prominent, and social role of the shaman is that of teaching about the spirits. Farseers are no exceptions, and I would expect shamans to be vocal cultural advocates of spiritualism; erecting shrines, initiating unbelievers (and new orcs!) through cool spirit walks. Beyond taking fellow mortals directly to the spirits, they may be advisors regarding proper methods of worship and honorable ways.
The farsight ability also gives farseers an important role in the societies they live in.

Another part of being a farseer is cosmetic, again for cultural purposes. This includes the ability to make farseer tattoos, which help spread the influence of spirits, aswell as (I would argue) inflict visions; which can be used for storytelling purposes, and making cultural RP and transmission extra interesting.

Then, the magic of farseers also has a more tangible side; like the ability to call blessings from spirits upon beings or land, for example to heal wounded personas, to boost their morale, or to temporarily suppress voidal corruption. That also constitutes an important aspect of playing as a farseer. A "quick" blessings can be done by a shaman alone, or larger, more permanent spells can be cast by multiple shamans or by setting up totems and shrines. Totems  tend to locally alter the world with longer-lasting effects.

Can you give an example of a casting emote, of a spell of your choice?

(Calling for Paxahru’s blessing before a spring festival in his name, to boost morale)

Gharak'Yar stood in the center of the city, right besides the great fire. Wearing her carved Spider skull as a mask, she raised her arms to the skies and called: "Bûbhosh Ilzgûlhai, gaakhizg traflat!" No answer was given besides the bustling of the busy city as they prepared the festival. She continued nonetheless. "Dhurz nargzabizg ghûlmlab gathrokatu bûbhosh ghugsh Paxahrub bugudishi!"

[Great spirits, let me join you! for I need your help in preparing a great event in the name of Paxahru]
 

Gharak'Yar sat besides the fire, calling again, this time with shorter chants. "Zriiob Ilzgûl!" she chirped. "Frûmobmâdûrobgoth!" then she raised her voice again, filling the square with her bright, enthusiastic voice. "Ghûlbat thraku zrii srinkhizubu!" She felt the tug on her soul— she did not resist it, and found herself in Paxahru's realm.

[Spirit of joy! Master of the freedom of the mind! Help bring joy to my people!]
 

Gharak'Yar was all alone, in what seemed like a sandy arena covered by a colorful tent. On the ground, half sunk, shattered masks lied. She did not see the spirit, but called him nonetheless. "Lûp-Paxahru, largat zamal gaakhizishu narmok za latûr-dafrumob staun," she said, enthusiastic. "ghûlbizishu largat za-dafrum bûbhozh zash kullat!" Will this year’s festival begin under a good omen?

[Paxahru, make it so we may enjoy this time of partying in your name, help us make this festival great like you are!]
(I roll a d10, and succeed if I don’t roll a 1)
 

[!] A sudden cackling burst, coming from every direction at once, drilling into Gharak's head. Her senses where overwhelmed, yet she knew she could do it! She helped channel Paxahru’s energy back into the material plane, where the festival preparations were almost over. As the crowd gathered for the festival, their souls would be reinvigorated by the blessing.
 

Gharak'Yar would be sat, still immobile next to the great fire. Yet everyone on the busy city square would understand the festival started, for they would feel a wave of newfound confidence, and perhaps arrogance run through them. With Paxahru’s blessing, they would be able to fully express themselves, each through their own quirks and find pride in them. Let the spring parade begin!

Can you give an example of a teaching-emote (interacting with another) of a spell of your choice?

"Zho, dah azh’zt ztep tu begin ah zpirit walk ahm tu take zome kaktuz green. Or, lat kan uze ahn inztrument." She shows the student her bone flute, but then lights her blunt to smoke it. "Mi findz daht kaktuz wurkz bezt. Eht helpz relax dah zhoul." — "Dehn, lat will have tu ztart zhanting, agh kall dah zpiritz"

((People have to consent IRP to go on a spirit walk. Don’t force people beyond peer pressure :) Once everyone is high, call the spirits in old blah for at least 2 emotes where people will get sleepy. Nobody will care how gramatically correct your Old blah is, but do not repeat the same word again and again. You will get more familiar with it over time.))

"Latz kallz muzt bi ah praize ob dah zpirit. Lat nub needz tu kall deir name. Kalling deir title kan work tuu. For example, lat grukz daht Gazigazh ahm dah Grizh-momo, yub? Daht’z grishob kranklûb" —she pronounces carefully— "in Old blah."

((For the third emote, you call the spirit in old blah again, but you also emote that those participating have their souls pulled out of their bodies. Make sure you explain things well, and don’t hesitate to add details in #looc so they understand what their characters feel— even if their characters don’t fully understand what is happening.))

Say your student powergames during or after teaching, how do you reprimand that?

I would try and find out why that happened; did I forget to teach something, or was I not clear on something?
I would make sure to re-explain if I failed to do it well the first time, and keep that in mind for next time I teach it.
If I find that the powergaming is repeated or deliberate, I will most likely drop them as a student, possibly warn other shaman teachers about them, and in the worst cases, report to moderation.

Do you have a magic(s) you are dropping due to this app? If so, link it:

         nope!

Do you agree to keep the ST updated on the status of your magic app?:

         Yes

Have you applied to teach this magic on this character before, and had it denied? If so, link the app.

         No

MC Name:

         Gomoore

Character's Name:

         Gharak'Yar

Character's Age:

         75

What feat(s) will you be learning?

         Haruspexy

Teacher's MC Name:

         n a

Teacher's RP Name:

         n a

Do you agree to keep Story updated on the status of your feat app?:

         yes

Have you applied for this feat on this character before, and had it denied? If so, link the app:

         no

Are you aware that if this feat is shelved, it will be unavailable to use?

         yes :(

Gharak had been walking through the deserts of Krugmar for a few months now— and yet she had made no progress at all on her journey. Standing on a dune higher than the others, she looked at the ever-stretching sands below. 

“Da Zkah ahm mi duin… ”

Perhaps it was the heat of the desert, or the lack of water —it had been a few days since she last encountered an oasis— that made her mind so foggy. She had no clue what she even expected out here. It had been shame, and shame alone that had set her feet in motion. She had lost so much, she could barely stand the thought of showing her face in Orcgrimmar.

A few months back, it was while investigating for her newspaper that she had found herself in Celia’lin. She had been there before, though not enough to be familiar with the place. Seeing a voidal mage, it seemed obvious to her that she should kill it there and then. Letting a long-contained rage unleash, she had fought the buurz one.

Bloodlust, it turns out, makes one foolish and blind. The fight was not as glorious as she had expected. A missing tusk and a burnt cheek is all she had gotten, for she couldn’t even scratch the buurz one. Let alone kill it! Her life was spared only for the perverted amusement of her enemy.

It was pride that made her fight, rage that made her push through her obvious defeat, and shame that sent her on a meaningless walk through the desert. And now, she was feeling even more ashamed of having let those feelings rule over her life. 

“Iv mi’z haart keepz betreyin mi, mi zhud lurn tu ignore eht.” she said, with untrue resolve.

And yet, the feelings remained. And she knew very well she could not ignore them. Shame, again, made her walk further into the desert.

 

The first stars appeared above Gharak as the sun sank beyond the dunes. She walked a bit more, until darkness made more progress impossible— then, lighting no fire, she wrapped herself up in a thick pelt— and tried to sleep.

She never had good sleep, out in the harsh desert: the nights were always viciously cold. But this night was even worse, for she had an uneasy feeling which she had not felt in a while… As if she was being watched…

This event is CANCELLED for IRP reasons.

I will try to organize something like this when the time is right again.

"Diz bringz ah tear tu mi’z peepur—"

Newspapers are spread throughout Aevos.

They’re made of two sheets of cheap paper, simply stacked and folded together and yet they are

surprisingly colorful, with doodles and familiar drawings! Could this be… no way!

Issue Azhty’H’Gakh (XVIII) — Azh’Kint’H’Azh’ty’Futh (CLXIV) D.A.

ORC POLITICS

A New Vassal to the Horde?

The Iron Horde might be getting a new vassal soon. A tribe of Qualasheen Far-folk arrived on Malin’s Welcome [Tuesday], and expressed a desire to settle in the deserts of Krugmar.

The delegation of the Al-Badwawi tribe was composed of three people.  Their leader, Sultan Mehmed Ibn Walid Al-Badwawi, was accompanied by two advisors; Shura Bayezid Ibn Walid Al-Badwawi, and Shura Taiseer Ibn Walid Al-Badwawi.

They seemed very pious, and eager to share both goods and culture; indeed, they are Qualasheen, which is to say they follow the Iiman Rashidun. They believe, much like Canonists, that there is only one god and creator; though they do not follow the canonist scrolls; they have their own scriptures known as the Book of Peace.

They have expressed a distaste for needless violence but I must assume they are competent military-wise; they are well armed and have dedicated military roles. Bayezid has blah’d his role among the Shura council was that of military advisor; helping the Sultan for matters of strategic warfare.

Though this will be further discussed, detailed and made official during this cactus day’s Klamor, Rex Grommash has welcomed their arrival in principle, so long as they share the way of orcs. He stated the Horde’s conditions: “you’re to trade, to share food and water with us, to bring warriors when the horde marches.”  — Which they accepted with honor.

FOREIGN AFFAIRS

The new Grand King of Urguan

Following Grand King Garedyn’s passing, the dwarves of Urguan have seen a new king rise to the throne. Sigrun Stonehammer gave the Kaktuz Weekli an interviews a few months after gaining his position.

Will we be seeing a change of policies in Urguan under your reign?

“Not really… I’ve been running Urguan as Grand Regent under Garedyn for four years before hand, so I’m gonna stick with what I know how to deal with: which is winning this war. I have a great set of advisors behind me for political affairs, but Garedyn's policies have done us very well so far so I don’t see a reason to change.”

Regarding the war, he added: “I know well what I’m doing when it comes to it, and its consequences, so I have no intent on dishonouring the alliance. Urguan is the most honourable state and always keeps to its word, and that reputation is something I seek to keep.”

Are there large events you want to oversee during your reign?

“Yes! I have many great events planned for Urguan, including a whole new city that will be carved out of the mountain.” he announced— but seemed reluctant to share more.

Concerning relations with the Iron Horde, do you see it as an enemy nation, or is it just a matter of circumstances?

“We will have to see until after we deal with Veletz,” he sighed “but I have sent no dwarven raiders or attacks upon the people of the horde in particular, except for the shared large battles.”

“It appears they do not share the same sentiment, as they have repeatedly sent Urukin to attack our farms and roads.” he warned. “If you don’t want to invoke my ire for after Veletz, then I suggest stopping it.”

Any closing words for our readers, or for orcs?

“What I would say to orcs back in the Horde is to advise good friend Grommash to take their livelihoods in priority over assisting Veletz.”

ORCISH CULTURE

Orkish Delights: Kruga Kola!

This week in the Kaktuz Weekli…
The recipe for an old Krugmarian drink: Kruga Kola!

Ingredients:

A twiggie

A handful of salt

One brick of butter

A few bottles of wine

A few ripe potatoes

Cinnamon, Vanilla and spices of your liking

Preparation:

Peel the twiggie, and chop it into 5 or 10 bite-size pieces. Salt, then sear the chunks in butter in a large pan over a medium fire, mixing well so that it does not burn. Prepare your cauldron; pour one bottle of wine in it without bringing it to a boil.

Once the chunks are well-cooked on each side, transfer to the cauldron. Add wine until the meat is fully covered, and place a lid on top. Boil slowly over a small fire, and mix every now and then to check the level.

When the wine has boiled down to half its initial level, add the potatoes and top the cauldron with water. Keep it warm over a smoldering fire for the day. Mix every few hours; it should never boil.

Add cinnamon, vanilla and any spices you like. Leave to rest for the night.

The next morning, mix gently to avoid creating air bubbles, then separate the stew into sturdy oak barrels. Be very careful; there should be as little air as possible. If needed, add boiled (not boiling!) water to top up the barrels. Seal them and let them ferment for at least a month.

Kruga-Kola is a carbonated drink; pick your barrels accordingly. Half the batch usually fails; hence why it is recommended to prepare as many smaller barrels as you can. Sift the Kruga Kola after opening the barrels.

You may also open the barrels early, sift the contents and complete the fermentation in bottles.

There you have it! Dark, fuzzy Twiggie Stew with its cinnamony, quiet vanilla aftertaste: that’s Kruga Kola!

On The Kaktuz

A new Section coming next Issue!

Hopefully starting next issue, we will be adding a new section to the Kaktuz Weekli; “Did lat gruk?” where we hope to show you things you might not have known. Places worth visiting, small cultural traditions, interesting and unique shops…

The Kaktuz Weekli is looking forward to reading your ideas if you can think of places that you want to share!

Help your Newspaper!

In its effort to reach a broader audience, we are hiring a paper boy for the Kaktuz Weekli.

As always, we are also still looking for informants who will help us with local news outside of Krugmar.
Thanks for reading!
 

Informant — Spuds @Turbo_Dog

Writer — Gharak’Yar @Gomoore

Illustrator & Head publisher — Gharak’Yar

Gharak was rummaging through a pile of old newspaper when she stumbled upon this.

“Dah ZKAH happened dere?” — but at the top of page she recognized the slanted N.E.N.A. header. “Oh… Diz ahm nub’hozh, mi waz peepin’ forward for diz Twiggieh newzpapur!”

She sighed, then looked at the archives with tired eyes. “It muzt bi zomewhere here” — and so she resumed her search…

Newspapers are spread throughout Aevos.

They’re made of two sheets of cheap paper, simply stacked and folded together and yet they are

surprisingly colorful, with doodles and familiar drawings! Could this be… no way!

Issue Azhty’H’Dub (XVII) — Azh’Kint’H’Azh’ty’Gakh (CLXIII) D.A.

ORC POLITICS

Orc of the Week: Grommash!

Though I suspect —and hope!— our readers know what a Rex is, and who Grommash is, this issue’s orc of the week is the Rex, the leader of the orcs. He took the position after Grubsnakh the Olog fell sick, and has been overseeing vast reforms, including the reconstruction of our capital San’Brîu, which was dismantled in favor of the current Orcgrimmar.

  

 

So, how is it, being Rex?

“Being Rex is very strange. I think I have approached the Rexdom differently than many previous Rexes. The Rex is not the strongest of Orcs, or rather the Rex must be more than that. The Rex speaks for the Horde, he leads the Horde. He is responsible for ensuring the prosperity and the virtue of the Horde. In that sense he is not just the Horde speaker but also the Horde father. Where he commands, the Horde goes. By his will warriors kill and die.”

We have seen the horde change with more orcs, more events and a more aggressive stance towards other nations. Do you think it’s good now or will you be striving for even more change?

“I think the changes I have brought to the Horde are a step in the right direction. But frankly the Horde is far from where it needs to be. Without the support of the elders, the Chieftains and the Goths of the Rex council we would not have achieved any progress at all.”

“In that sense I want to thank Minto, Azfrai, Apek, Madoc, Gazhnakh, the leaders of Gobtown, as well as the masters of the guild. Even non-goth orcs such as Grogmar have been indispensable for the success of the horde.”

“Regarding the more aggressive stance… —he paused for a moment— I don't think that is true. The humans may dance their tongue dances and speak their honeywords, but we are Uruks, children of Krug himself. We should speak in truth always. I have approached many of these nations under the white banner of truce many times to speak to them. There has never been a violation of the white banner of truce by Orcs. Not when we visited Hysland, not when we visited Norland, not when we visited Dwedland, not when we went to Aaun to return the corpse of their dead knight and the children he had left with us.”

“The Orcish stance from the beginning of the war has been very clear. Before the war even started I made it abundantly clear, especially to the Hyspians. The desert belongs to the Orcs. Those who live in the desert will be considered invaders.”

We have also seen you put a lot of effort in foreign diplomacy, how is this going?

“Well…” He sighed. “Many nations are helping to make a new human empire, I think. They have forgotten what it means for the rest of us.” — “Many orcs have died during the war of ten nations, and I’m trying to make sure they haven’t died in vain.”

You wanted to create a Kubrex role during last Klamor, have you got any orc in mind for the position?

“No. I had some candidates in mind but I don't think they are even ready for Kubrex yet. I have been giving some of the orcs responsibilities and missions to see if they can be trusted. At the moment I don't think anyone is really ready yet. Kho is not interested in being Rex.”

There have been rumors going on about you looking for a lifemate, is it true? What qualities are you looking for in them?

“I have been too busy with the war to even give it thought. A feorc who works hard for the horde maybe?”

You’ve remained clanless, do you plan on joining a clan any time soon?

“I have been focusing on the war and reforms. There aren't really any clans that I feel drawn to at the moment. I think that much of the new orc population is also clanless. It seems like the position of clans in Orcish society is changing somewhat.”

“Honestly I'd really like to see my Wargoths and Chieftains step up and do more, they have been disappointing up until now.” — “For the foreseeable future I will probably stay clanless.”

Anything else you want to add?

“I'd like to thank all the Orcs who have been working for the greater good of the Horde. We will preserve the way of Krug and the land given to us by Krug, our ancestors, and the spirits.”

FOREIGN AFFAIRS

A Paladin’s Daily Path

Though it is the orc’s Krug-given mission to rid the world of the darkspawn, we are not the only ones to fight bûurz. Paladins are also dedicated to eradicating darkspawns; so Elena of Joma agreed to tell us more about their order.
Interview by Spuds.

What first brought you into paladinism?

“Well, originally I sought to be a void mage in Hohkmat… I made an encounter with several inferi, that made a deal with a man then walked away without anyone to stand up to them. That encounter changed my views and later down the line it was my first mentor, Viltaren of Ahad, that made me interested in this path.”

I must assume your view on the world has changed since then?

“It has changed greatly! I had no idea who the azdrazi were until I became a paladin. They are a horrid threat that practice foul magics.”
“When I was seeking to be a void mage, I sought power for my own benefit. I sought power to make sure no one would take advantage of me again.” — “Now… I do have power, more than I could have thought possible. Though it is through service and a strict set of oaths that I am able to have such power, and I can only use it for such service. I have become content in keeping others safe and helping people, and have especially grown my capacity for empathy to all descendants.”

“But,” she added, “for many it is less about noble hearts and more about serving Xan’s will. We are pledged to further Xan’s goals of Order and Guardianship to the best of our ability, with Xan’s power as a gift to aid us in that regard when necessary.”

And how does day-to-day life look like being a Xan blessed warrior?

“Some of us live in relative peace and tranquillity, mainly doing our activities when called upon by our comrades, but others are often right in the thick of it, getting consistent letters for healing malflame wounds, lifting curses, giving the population blessed items according to their needs against such forces, defending a region from invasion, raiding a suspected or confirmed hiding place for them, or collecting information about potential darkspawn.”

Thank you very much! Do you want to tell anything more to our readers?

“Well, I hope that I do not romanticize the life of a paladin, nor make it seem like a torturous existence.” — “It is a worthy path for those that seek to go towards a higher calling against those of Iblees and Azdromoth.”

“It is a big commitment, —she emphasized— one that should not be scorned or judged.”

ORCISH CULTURE

The Ashst Lodge Meeting

A cactus week ago, the Lodge held its first meeting. Shamans from all around Krugmar —as well as from distant lands— gathered in the great shaman tent of Orcgrimmar to discuss important matters.

The blahing was long, with many great shamans voicing their conflicting opinions… which was indeed the whole point of the gathering.

The first issue discussed was regarding the Azulytes, and their affiliation with darkspawn. After careful discussion, they were declared enemies of the Lodge.

Then the shamans blahed regarding Skorkon the inferi bull, who has been at the heart of many heated debates and infighting all the way back to the times of Almaris.

Indeed, though Zkorkon is of buurz origins, for a while it was thought that shamanism could cure his condition and bring him up to a better existence.
However, after such a long time, it became clear that such a perspective was only an illusion. The matter was settled once and for all, for it was decided that he would be flatted.

Informant — Spuds @Turbo_Dog

Writer — Spuds, Gharak’Yar @Gomoore

Illustrator & Head publisher — Gharak’Yar

The Yargoth took a pause from her usual book-sorting tasks. Stepping outside the library, she saw the Goblin coming back to Orcgrimmar. He did, indeed, look like he had learned a lot.

“Hozh, hozh…” she hummed to herself. “Hi ahm expanding hiz grukkin ob dah Uzg alryth'” she grinned, before heading back inside.

Thanks for this great plugin!

I’d love to see the netherrack variations too, I don’t think we can get nylium? (the nether grass blocks)

Newspapers are spread throughout Aevos.

They’re made of two sheets of cheap paper, simply stacked and folded together and yet they are

surprisingly colorful, with doodles and familiar drawings! Could this be… no way!

Issue Azhty’H’Azh (XVI) — Azh’Kint’H’Azh’ty’Dub (CLXII) D.A.

ORC OF THE GRUB WEEK

A Grubgoth for the Horde!

The Grubgoth in Krugmar is nub only the keeper of the tavern, but also the steward of our rich culinary culture and refinement. Agh Cob'Lur the goblin recently took the position! What better choice for orc of the week?

Ashst, congratulations on being Grubgoth!

“Yub yub, this is exciting news, because I wasn’t sure myself until the rex said it. I have been trying to keep the orcs fed!”

You have been working at the tavern for some time now, yes? Were you aiming to become Grubgoth?

“I definitely love the honour of becoming Grubgoth. But mostly I find cooking for my brothers and sisters relaxing and it makes me happy!”

“I also saw as a child that the tavern was closed. —Indeed, Cob is the first Grubgoth we have in decades, the last ash being Kor'Garr— I always wanted to work here and serve food!”

Did someone teach you, or did you learn on your own?

“I learned from my adoptive parents. My mother was Zkrap, agh mi’z popo waz Varn. I haven’t seen my blood-parents. They are most likely dead.”

I understand you have been working on clan recipes... That Hungry Ungri was delicious!

“Yes! I made something simple yet pleasing to represent the Ungris. Simple yet good orcs who have a big appetite.”

She showed me a booklet with a dozen clan-related recipes planned ahead. “I have to introduce the vinteky stew sometime soon!”

I will be looking forward to that. Is there anything you want to add, to blah the Horde perhaps?

“I want to tell them that they are the best brothers and sisters I could ever hope for!”

Recipe of the Hungry Ungri

Cob was kind enough to share an exclusive recipe for her latest creation: the Hungry Ungry!

• Take a whole cow, agh clean its guts from both ends.

• Fill it with vegetables, most importantly garlic, onion agh hot peppers. You may also add carrots, mushrooms agh beans.

• For a fresh taste, add a few ripe fruits; apples agh pears add their sweet juices to the meat agh extra flavor.

• Slowly roast above a weak fire for an entire day.

Then, eat it while it is still warm! 

FOREIGN GRUBBING

Halfling Wizard Cheese

Magnolia Fiddleberry, the halfling wizard, owns a wizard cheese shop, right next to the Dunfarthing cheese museum. She agreed to answer a few questions:

So, please tell us more about this cheesemancing business...

“I have been cheesemancing for about seventy years now. Of course, my cheese was good before I became a wizard. The magic isn’t what makes the cheese good. It’s what makes it wizard cheese.”

She proudly explained: “yeah, I could stir the curds and press the whey and all that bad hand. But I can also do it with magic.”

Agh were you taught magic? Or is that something you developed on your own?

“Do you know of Barbog? He lived in Honeyhill since before I was born.” We discussed a bit about the great goblin philosopher—

“Well, he taught me the start of magic. Then I spent a few years travelling. Hopping between libraries to read all the spellbooks I could find. Now I’ve written my own.”

I see. How do you see this evolving in the coming years?

“I’m planning to try a few things out based on some suggestions of cheese I got. Someone said to put chocolate in cheese. Heck yeah I’m gonna do that! And in terms of the wizard side, I’m working on a second spellbook for Kitchen Magic right now.”

Do you have students, or would you like to? 

“I’m not the best teacher myself. Not really anything I could teach them beyond advice, which they can ask me for anyways.”

“But I did make my basement a bit of a public magicking space for Dunfarthing. So there will be my spellbooks for anyone to learn from there, alongside a lil’ library of magic.”

That sounds great indeed. Any closing words for our readers?

“Smoke pipe, life y’ life. Respect t’ frogs. Eat a toastie. And above all: Stay wizardin’.”

GRUBING CULTURE

Da Ultimate Grubber

Deep within the Ungri Clan halls, lives a spirit like no other. To my knowledge, the Maw is the only spirit who permanently dwells in the mortal plane, right beneath Krugmar.

It resembles a massive beast-worm buried in the ground, its mouth gaping, waiting to be fed. Looking below from the plank which has been set up for this purpose, ash can see row after row of sharp teeth growing from the sides of its endless throat; a cavity which goes so far deep down into the earth that the bottom cannot be seen.

That is the Maw, the father of ologs, the spirit which the Ungris worship.

"Our god is cruel, our god is mighty, our god will consume the mortal plane should we fail it." the Ungri wargoth, Drekür'Ungri blahd me.

Even —agh perhaps especially— to the Ungris, the Maw represents a great menace, for they know "the consequences of not delivering the Maw what it deserves".

Indeed, in the past the Maw has already unleashed its wrath on descendants. It was in the times of Athera. Back then, "even Ologs knew none of their father’s hunger", agh for this the Maw destroyed Athera.

The Maw munching Athera

With a few terrible bites, the entire continent was consumed; those who foolishly fought were eaten, those who fled escaped only to live their last days in fear of the great beast.

The Ologs heard the Maw's voice agh worshipped it, fed it with all they could gather. Agh so far, it seems they have indeed been able to keep its appetite and anger at bay.

"This is why we serve him! This is why we venerate and feed it." Drekür further explained— "Because the realm remains ignorant, remains filled with hubris, without the Ungri the maw would punish once again. But next time his sacred bites shall be absolute, world-ending."

"The world sees us as mindless brutes… but we are zealous servants of the realms existence."

Informant — Spuds @Turbo_Dog

Writer — Gharak’Yar @Gomoore

Illustrator & Head publisher — Gharak’Yar

Newspapers are spread throughout Aevos.

They’re made of two sheets of cheap paper, simply stacked and folded together and yet they are

surprisingly colorful, with doodles and familiar drawings! Could this be… no way!

Issue Azhty’H (XV) — Azh’Kint’H’Azh’ty’Azh (CLXI) D.A.

ORC POLITICS

Another Klamor

After a few cactus weeks, the Horde gathered ashs more for a Klamor!

Rex Grommash opened the meeting to hold a discussion on the clans. It was quickly decided that clans would be acknowledged by the horde if they have a wargoth [leader] plus gakh members.

Clans will now be divided into greater agh lesser clans; greaters clans being those with more than ashty members.

The wargoths will also be able to collectively give the title of greater clan to those they think deserve it; specifically older clans devoted to the kubs of Krug.

There were also debates on the future of clans Vinteki agh Gorkil; indeed, the dub have very similar values, agh Azfrai’Lur specifically voiced concerns about the young Vinteki clan throwing shade on the older Gorkil clan. There were also blahs of merging the dub, but no resolution was found since the Rex has no say in those decisions.

The next topic discussed was that of the Kubrex. Grommash expressed concerns of what might happen if he were to die prematurely —which tends to happen during waghtik. Many voices called for Kho'Gorkil the Dominus, or Madoc'Lur the Motsham to inherit the throne if the Rex were to die. Both refused however, since they weren't keen on holding the position.

More will be discussed during next Klamor.

Minto'Lur, Rukagoth [treasurer] of the Horde then spoke on the war efforts: "Most of the clans have been doing good work with grinding and donating, but we still need more help."

He encouraged all to keep working hard, agh warned that the Horde is still not fully preserved from shortages.

Again, Grommash ended the Klamor with a blah of Orcgrimmar. "After Orcgrimmar is built, new clans will need to come to the Klamor with their Leader agh gakh members to become official clans." he explained, as had been decided earlier.

FOREIGN AFFAIRS

A Queen for Balian 

With King Adrian I's recent passing, Balian will see a new ruler: Queen Sybille I will be crowned next cactus day on the Grand Harvest.

Spuds interviewed her, agh she agreed to blah a bit more for the readers of the Kaktuz Weekli.

When will your coronation be? And along with that will there be any special measures taken due to the war?

“It shall be on the next Grand Harvest.” She confirmed the preparation of security measures, but could obviously not give us any details.

What is your stance on the war waged by the Covenant?

“My stance is the same as my father’s; after all it was I who was kidnapped, beginning the domino fall that led to the war.” 

Do you have major plans as a queen?

“Ai, a bona few. I have nobility reforms drafted." she explained, "I also wish for the knights of the nation to be under a new management to ensure that chivalry in Balian holds strong.”

I understand many of your knights are templars? 

“Ai, I'm close to many... I have given them land so they might build a monastery to host a Templar order. I would be remiss to say I don’t support their efforts against the dark of the continent.”

Anything you want to add?

“Ai. Several treat Balian as some sort of successor to Oren. We are not: the Balianese people are their own people with their own culture separate from that of the Orenian Predecessors.” she said. “What makes us different is that our forefathers were run out of Oren by the very people who call us Orenian. They are the ones who fought for their Oren, we founded a new home in the south.”

ORCISH CULTURE

The Stargush’Stroh

The Stargush'Stroh is a central pillar of the orcish culture; it is, for many, what gives a sense agh purpose to our lives. The Stargush’Stroh is a place somewhere among the stars where ash may go if they have lived a great life —which to us already eliminates those who do not live in orcish ways or, even worse, meddle with the darkspawn agh voidal mages. 

Kor, spirit of the Dead

Upon death, the soul leaves the body, agh the life lived is judged by Kor, the Immortal Spirit of the Dead agh Afterlife. If they deem the life honorable, they may enter the Stargush'Stroh agh stay eternally among the greatest orcs.

In spite of what many globbish non-orcs might think, orkish honor is not about winning waghs and killing people; killing the weak is a sign of weakness agh covers ash with dishonor. Agh fighting against a stronger enemy is a mark of courage.

Above all, inspiring others agh being diligent in the way of the spirits will draw their respect; many who seek to enter the Stargush'Stroh will try to be remembered as a vessel for the spirits in the mortal plane, agh spread the ways of ash or a few select spirits.

Informant — Spuds @Turbo_Dog

Writer — Gharak’Yar @Gomoore

Illustrator & Head publisher — Gharak’Yar

Newspapers are spread throughout Aevos.

They’re made of two sheets of cheap paper, simply stacked and folded together and yet they are

surprisingly colorful, with doodles and familiar drawings! Could this be… no way!

Issue Azhty’Futh (XIV) — Ash’Kint’H’Ash’ty (CLX) D.A.

ON KRUGSMAS

The cold season is back

As the snow silently falls on Aevos, the loud footsteps of war disappear into a thin echo;  hidden under their thick white coats, every land, every city gets ready for the great festivities of the end of cactus-year… yes, Krugsmas is back!

Krugsmas is a time for celebration across all of Aevos, where descendents are no longer judged by what nation they belong to, which side of the battlefield they stand on, for there are no more battlefields. Wars are paused, grudges erased agh peace brings people together. Usually, a great fir is erected in the centre of cities, so that people may leave gifts under them. For this purpose, people can usually visit cities… Warmongering territories are even expected to let their enemies in for Krugsmas —provided they come with gifts!

Great fires are also often lit, agh all children gather around the fire to listen to stories told by the elders. Agh of course, Krugsmas is a season for fiesting agh praising Betharuz. Cookies, cakes, as well as turkeys agh roasts are often prepared to keep the hearts warm in the cold! We have enjoyed the celebrations so far— Agh can’t wait to see the rest of what people have planned this cactus year!

KRUGSMAS ACROSS AEVOS

Varied Celebrations

But then again, each nation has their own ways of celebrating Krugsmas. In Krugmar, Krugsmas is when Popo Krugsmas visits orcs to give them gifts! This year, I also had the pleasure of learning of a rather new, blossoming tradition: Musmas!

In the musin village of Babblebrook, the townsfolk are gathering to spend time together; cookies were exchanged, agh we enjoyed the company of friends agh family. Then we were invited to the outskirts of the village, where Sir Spuds had prepared sleds! We were lucky to have perfect weather: after a short heavy rain which left the grass wet agh muddy, the sky cleared up for some perfect sledding!

I even got to see flying halflings!

What does Krugsmas mean to you?

But certainly the best way to celebrate Krugsmas is to share great moments with people! So the Kaktuz Weekli decided to ask the citizens of Aevos what Krugsmas means to them!

First, what came up often is peace! Though I unfortunately have to admit that the Iron Horde has not kept its bloodlust tame, many among the Orcs were against the recent brutal events; "Orcs should not go raiding at this period, they should go and ejnoy this lovely season, spread love in the city, and show that we’re much more than the brutes humans and elves think we are!" — ash called. In Veletz, agh Nor-Velyath too, we heard that Krugsmas was "a great relief, even with war" agh wishes that "the war had been over before the holidays”

Then of course, the gifts! "The act of giving in charity is an opposition to greed, a rot that plagues them!" a friend told me in Norland. "Everyone is freaking out preparing their trees, cookies and gifts!" — another voice cheered. Children were perhaps the most excited: "My daughters are really excited! I think this year will be good, despite the wars!" — "To me, it means very little— but it’s great for children! They get really excited by all the festivities and gifts, I love seeing their smiles!" another friend told me in Sulianpoli.

Agh last but not least, pretty much everyash talked of the people they were going to meet again! For orcs, "it’s the days where all the clans finally gather and have some wholesome time" agh share "they lovely human and elf stew, stories and whatnot…" A Veletz citizen put it this way; "I love Krugsmas. To me it means family and friends more often than not." agh similarly in Celia’Nor agh Nor-Velyath we heard; "I’m really excited to spend time with my family!" — "Best thing about it is the people who you meet during that time."

A sorvian told me also: "I will celebrate Krugsmas with a few other of my kind. I enjoy the look on people’s faces when they receive something. It is, well… Awesome." What more could we say?

KRUGSMAS STORY

Uggzak’s Big Red Scarf

Uggzak’s favourite season had always been Krugsmas. Every H’ty years, the great cold wind swept over the world, covering hills agh cities in snow, agh the orcs would rejoice, spend tik together, play in the snow agh wait for Krug’s coming.

Uggzak had a big red scarf. She got it from Krug himself on her ashst Krugsmas, agh ever since then, she kept it in her blargttic. Agh every Krugsmas season, she wrapped herself in the fuzzy cloth to keep her warm when she played in the cold snow. She enjoyed snowball klomps, snowblarging, agh most importantly snowrk-building. Every year she would make ash, giving it sticks for arms, agh pebbles for peepers.

Ash day, as the snowy clouds slowly made their way across the skies, Uggzak went to her blargttic only to find that her scarf had vanished! She looked through every room of her blarg, every chest, every nook agh cranny… but the big red scarf was nubwhere to be found. When she tried going outside, it was so cold! She decided to spend the Krugsmas tik inside, agh knit a new scarf for herself.

She spent days, weeks, months knitting the scarf; for it was a very big ash! Every now and then, she looked outside her window; snow was piling up, goblins were snowball-klomping… But she had not built a snowrk yet.

When she was done knitting her scarf, it was already Krugsmas eve agh very late, so she decided to wait for the next morning.

So on Krugsmas morning she wore her new scarf, agh when she opened her door… What a surprise! She found all her previous snowrks waiting for her. They were all sharing her old red scarf, agh it had made them come to life!

Since that Krugsmas, Uggzak has a favourite day: Krugsmas day. She prepares a new scarf before the cold season, agh builds a new snowrk as soon as the ashst snow falls. She gives the new snowrk her scarf agh, on Krugsmas morning, her snowrks come to life so they can play together all day.

To cover more news— agh do it better, the Kaktuz Weekli’s publishing team has grown! Please welcome our new informant, Spuds!

Informant — Spuds

Writer — Gharak’Yar

Illustrator & Head publisher — Gharak’Yar

Newspapers are spread throughout Aevos.

They’re made of two sheets of cheap paper, simply stacked and folded together and yet they are

surprisingly colorful, with doodles and familiar drawings! Could this be… no way!

Issue Azhty’Gakh (XIII) — Azh’Kint’H’ty’H’FUTH (CLIX) D.A.

ORC POLITICS

A New Clan in Krugmar

In the holy deserts near San’Brîu, the endless caves still bear secrets that —it seems— only time will reveal to us. Ash of these secrets was the unexpected existence of an entire community of orcs agh former snagas [slaves; it is assumed that all former slaves are now honorary orcs] lurking, klomping, thriving in the deep caves below the now fallen Kazin’Kul Clan’s halls.

But the goblins among them were curious, agh with Krug’s blood running through their hearts they found the courage to find the surface, agh so the Vinteki learned of our existence agh we of theirs. Upon hearing the Yar horn calling them to wagh, the Vinteki Clan fully surfaced to join the Iron Horde for the great future which awaits us.

The Vinteki Clan, currently strong of roughly dub’ty [twenty] members, is said to soon grow with dozens more emerging from the innards of the desert. From their war-focused culture they formed a structured hierarchy; their wargoth Kezmur’Vinteki has dub lesser wargoths; Gazdul’Vinteki agh Klog’Vinteki — and I was able to meet the latter.

“Yes, we are focused on wagh—” he blah’d me. “agh thus besides Krug we only worship Enrohk” he explained. Indeed, their clan culture seems focused on being “the very best at wagh”. Still, orcs from their clan who have been engaging with the rest of the Horde were seen tending to other shrines agh praising all great ancestors; as is the orcish way.

A Vinteki Targoth

Ash of those Vinteki’s who immediately meddled themselves with the Iron Horde is Apek’Vinteki, who claimed the Targoth position after Grimruk’Lur decided to let others try their hands at leading the Krug-hai [orcish military].

The new Targoth made his intentions clear; “I want to improve the orcs as a nation, especially military-wise—” agh blahing of the Covenant agh their allies; “—agh ZKAH on dem in this wagh.”

Concerns were raised with Apek being a new member to the Iron Horde, agh indeed very young— to which he replied; “I have a lot of experience klomping, leading waghs— from duels agh banditism.”

Of course, those who still feel like he is unworthy are welcome to take away his responsibilities after a klomp for his position.

FOREIGN AFFAIRS

Celia’nor leaves The League

Concerning the war which opposes the Covenant of Five agh its allies —frankly most of Aevos— against The League of Veletz agh their loyal orcish allies.

After dub victories for the Covenant, many on Veletz’ side felt overwhelmed; the numbers of the Covenant’s armies as well as their devastating siege weapons have taken a great toll on League forces. Celia’nor, which has sided with Veletz to honour a pact, has found themselves unable to uphold their side of the alliance. On the First Seed of last Cactus Week [Friday], Princess Illyra backtracked on her decision to engage Celia’nor into the wagh.

The decision takes place in a time of great turmoil for the young elven nation —Celia’nor was restored in ash’kint’H’ty’gakh— ; agh the aforementioned Illyra has faced a strong illness which made her unable to rule.

Though the succession is not yet established, I could blah with the current leader agh heir to the throne, Illthrak Ibarellan. “Of course I do not like the decision to leave this alliance. But my Haelun had to make a choice for the sake of our people. It still pains me to think about it.” he explained that they had no choice but to flee the wagh; “We really must ensure our people are safe: we were at the verge of total destruction! — And we had nothing to gain from this war. We were only dragged in because of a pact.”
Though I would argue the glory of honouring a pact is always a gain worth countless bloodshed, it seems elves have different morals— agh I can only condone the will to defend ash’s own people.

ORCISH CULTURE

Spiritualism beyond Krugmar

Spiritualism is often associated with orcs— agh indeed, it is a pillar of orcish culture. Yet, it is not exclusive to our glorious nation. Many elves also worship the spirits, agh the members of the shamanic Lodge were recently invited to a blahference hosted by the elven elder shaman, Ember;

“As Farseer, as a speaker of our spirits, I deliver a small message, an advice, or maybe a lesson to those who come with doubts of the spirits.” she began.
“Myself, and I’m sure many of you have experienced the fury of the spirits. Though we understand it, many argue that the spirits must be evil tyrants, and that no benevolent deities would endanger their own followers and practitioners” — “And in their perspective, they are probably correct; what would you say of rulers if you saw only their fury, pride and egocentrism? They would be tyrants and evil-doers in your eyes, and you would be right.”

“This is what this sermon is about; Perspective.” She paused for a moment. “As a shaman, I have endured many methods in which the spirits punish, teach, and bless us. Every spirit —and every shaman— has their unique method, no two being the same.” — “To us, the spirits are no tyrants, for we have faith in what they give and what they take. But as farseers —and shamans— it is our duty to show the confused and sceptical that spirits, like what they think of their gods, are good deities; by giving praise to them they may treasure us with their blessings.” — “But no blessing comes free and —shaman or not— it starts with seeing the spirits in the right light, in the right perspective.”

“I hope this talk convinced you that perspective means all.” she concluded. “I hope that with this in mind you may change your perspectives too, to better learn of the spirits, their stories and their blessings.”

[A paragraph protrudes from the usual formatting, as if hastily added onto the last article]

Though this is probably unrelated to Ember’s blah, I was informed that former Azulyte shamans —who were absent at the blahference— have turned their backs against the spirits to worship (possibly) the Dread Primarch. The situation is still uncertain, but azh thing is clear; they abandoned, insulted, betrayed the spirits, agh for that they must die. Do not expect updates on this from the Kaktuz Weekli, for the Lodge will surely quickly deal with those fools.

Newspapers are spread throughout Aevos.

They’re made of two sheets of cheap paper, simply stacked and folded together and yet they are

surprisingly colorful, with doodles and familiar drawings! Could this be… no way!

Issue Azhty’Dub (XII) — Azh’Kint’H’ty’H’Gakh (CLVIII) D.A.

FOREIGN AFFAIRS

The War Continues

A continuation of last cactus week’s events, where war tore the human nations. The Covenant of Five, comprised of Haense, Balian, Hyspia, Petra and Urguan attacked The League of Veletz as retaliation after the assassination of Aaun’s King by Veletz’s vassal city, Stassion.

The battle in Veletz happened on the Sun’Smile. The Covenant rallied its armies, as well as its Vassals and allies; thus did Aaun, Norland and Numendil join them. Thousands rallied in a camp next to Breakwater keep, and readied their weapons.

Numbers were not in favor of The League of Veletz, and they could only rely on their walls to aid them in this battle. But those walls did not last long, for the Covenant had brought plenty of siege weapons, trebuchets and canons. Artillery tore through the keep’s defences, and after breaching the walls in several areas, the attackers entered the city to engage the League in close combat.

After a relentless fight, the Covenant prevailed and Breakwater keep fell to their hands.

With this victory secured, the Covenant and their allies prepared for more bloodshed. It seems like they will be attacking again on the Grand Harvest.

ORC OF THE WEEK

Minto’Lur, the Shortest, and Greatest Orc

Those who roam Krugmar are surely familiar with the great Minto’Lur. But to those who have not met the halfling-looking Orc, let me introduce you to one of the best— if not the best of us.

Halflings are not those people would most expect to become honoraries. Could you tell us more on how you came to join the Iron Horde?

“Yub! A while ago, I was banished from Elven lands over dumb elven zkah.” He explained. “In order to avoid buurz and the void, I came to the only people devoid of it; the Orcs. The Rex at the time promised to keep me protected so I have been here ever since. Lately I am working on improving McMintoes! Have you seen the new McRibs?”

No, not yet— So you became a honorary orc. I am sure you inspire many who wish to walk your path; do you have any advice for them?

“Well… I advice any future honorary that they eat plenty at McMintos’.” he declared. “A proud LUR owned business! We just got in our new speciality item: The McRibs!”

I am sure they will enjoy it indeed. And you also joined clan Lur, could you tell us more about that?

“So I love all things animals. Taming them, hunting them, all of it, yes. Lur was an easy choice to make in this aspect, as I am the best tamer in the city.” And, to prove his point, he showed me all the animals he was carrying; two caterpillars, a hermit crab and a pair of hamsters, as well as a beetle taller than himself. “I am the king of Hamsters!” he proudly announced, adding: “And this is just what I carry on myself!”

Minto Showing off some great beasts he captured and tamed.

Now, about your business. How’s McMintoes doing? Will you reveal to us the recipes that make your food so delicious? Is it orcish recipes, or do you use Halfling cooking methods?

“Well, business is booming! A proud LUR owned business!” — “As for the recipes, I’ll say what it is definitely not made up of. It is definitely NOT made of elves who disrespected orcs, and most definitely NOT made of humans who spoke the Blah.” [Speaking Blah as a non-orc is an offense on the spirits]

“To find the real secrets of McMintos food you would need to work there. Well, we are looking for an unpaid, overworked intern, yep! Also, try the new McRibs!”

We have discussed this before, I unfortunately do not have the time to be an overworked intern. Is there anything else you’d like to tell our readers?

“Yes! Lur on top! Try the new McRibs at McMintos! Farm Leather for the Horde, and donate it! For the Waghclaim!” — in typical orcish fashion.

ON THE KAKTUZ

It has come to my attention that some of those described as Kings in last week’s issue, —namely Heinrich II Lothar, and Frederick Aurelian— were not kings, but regents. I am unsure what this precisely means, or what the use of it is. I’d say if they rule, they are the ruler, and thus the King. Humans put too much effort into making fancy names for simple things.

As mentioned in the previous issue, we are looking for informants for the Kaktuz Weekli. Some great people have contacted us, and, dear readers, we can’t wait to introduce them to you! More will be revealed in the next publications.

Due to Krugsmas season approaching, the Kaktuz Weekli may see delay in future publications; fear not! We will try to publish at least once every other cactus week. As always, thank you for your support!

"Mhhmmm" A blue feorc grinned as she saw the missive stuck to an board in Balian.
"Zho, dere ahm zome pinky-kubz whu ahm honorable! Diz ahm hozh."

Minecraft IGN

Gomoore

Discord ID

Gomoore

Timezone

GMT+1

What focus-area of the Moderation Team interests you the most?

Server moderation & Forum moderation

Why have you decided to apply for the Moderation Team?

Hi!
I’ve been playing on LotC for close to a year now (yeah I know cute right?) and I’ve really enjoyed it so far. Part of it has been thanks to the premise of the server: roleplay is fun! But the welcoming playerbase has done so much too! I think it’s pretty surprising considering LotC’s scale; big communities, when left unattended, tend to go poorly.

I’d love for LotC to continue thriving but that requires people to dedicate time and effort to making it work; looking out for rule-breaking or toxic behavior before it becomes unmanageable. Communication, taking the time to listen, understand, explain and adjust goes a long way when trying to solve problems and I hope to apply that as best as I can.

Till now I mostly stayed within irp interactions but I feel like this might be a good time for me to dive deeper and take part in the unseen work that makes this experience possible for so many players.

What can you offer to the team?

Although I don’t have a lot of experience, I do have quite a lot of time so I could help a lot for tasks that require low skill but just a constant presence (helping new players, guiding people, basic moderation)

I like to think of myself as a rational person, or at least able to understand and distance myself from my emotions. I’m curious and try to understand every aspect of situations I face: I do not believe that people are inherently bad, most problems (including and especially the feeling of unfair punishment) stem from miscommunications or misunderstandings. Sometimes though, sure, player feuds are fueled by plain spite, then I’m a strong advocate for the involved players to ignore each other; LotC is not so small that you’re forced to interact with everybody.
Nobody is inherently bad, but then there’s those who are still beyond salvation; this is pixel game, not a medical institution. I have no problem being uncompromising with those who completely disregard how their actions affect others, show no remorse and resolve to better themselves, or are a threat to other players.

I’ve gotten here unscathed when it comes to most ooc drama even though everyone seems to say it's rampant. I don’t know if that is by luck or mabe I’m unknowingly good at avoiding it. Either way it means I might be at a good place to judge people’s current actions fairly, for what they are and not for what they have been. If LotC has few permbans and if appeals are always possible, we should treat those who come back without bias and I think I could help with that.
On the other hand, I might also be able to point at shitty behavior which has been accepted over time "because that’s just how it’s always been"

If you were the Mod Admin, what would you change about the server?

I haven’t seen enough to say for sure yet. That is also kind of why I’m applying; I wanna get a better understanding of how things are run.

Attach relevant media or links. (Portfolio)