Pepernoot

gg no re

I'd like to retract my earlier statement. You haven't changed a thing since early Aegis.

 

...Someone Ouitied.

 

I figured that out from somewhere else, yes. So nice that the staff communicates with the playerbase so well.

I got on this morning and I saw a sign saying "A GM accidentally removed all doors".

Apparently this is not the only thing that went wrong. All my LWC locked chests are empty, not a single thing left. All the books that weren't in the autoshop are also gone.

Luckily the books that were in the autoshop chests haven't been deleted...

Another thing I've seen in petrus is random data values of blocks changed all over the place (oak turning into jungle/birch/etc.)

Help?

I have been wanting to take up a job there but you guys are never on when I am. What time EST are you on?

((I'm european, so I'm always off early EST time. Ralph Riley is in your timezone though, but has been too busy lately. Doing the RP via forums PMs isn't a problem for me))

Walking around Oren you notice a stand handing out free newspapers, you take one and open it to read

First edition:     ((9 September 2014))

Verbo Veritatis

First edition

In this edition:

* A new emperor!

* Fishing up relics

* Greedy dwarves harras chef

* “The Farmer”, by W. von Bran, reviewed

Recent News.

A new emperor for our nation

On the 11th of Sun’s Smile, 1471. A new emperor was elected to rule over the Empire, listen to people and keep the nation safe from threats.

Tuvya of House Carrion has sworn to our creator to represent our nation in good or bad times, keeping the innocent safe from harm.

In the ceremony, Emperor-Elect Tuvya kneeled before the Lorraine and the High Pontiff, Daniel I. He recited his oaths to church and state. Afterwards, he received the onyx Crown of the Exalted and the Gilded Blade of St Adrian.

The new emperor will surely bring better times for the empire and we will prosper more than what any other nation could, prosperous times are right around the corner.

Fishing a relic

Fishing on the river outside Furstenburg, Phillip Krasline, a skilled fisher and part-time guard of our Majesty the Emperor, found a strange rock after a tug on his line. The rock appears to be an old knife carved out of a stone. He said "You can see it for yourself, it's crealy older than even the ruins here in Athera".

For now the carved stone knife will be kept by Phillip until the Imperial Museum is finished.

Phillip will return in the next issue to tell us all about the capture of the Fishlord.

Reports.

Clan Irongut harasses Oren’s greatest chef

A report by Cain Vir Miles

The Bada Bing Inn just outside of Petrus, owned by Oren's greatest chef known as Vinnie, is in the process of being stolen by the greedy dwarves of the Irongut clan. The clan seems to believe that the land the Bada Bing Inn is built on belongs to them, and not to Vinnie. To them, this means the inn belongs to them as well. Shortly after leaving, I was able to ask him what the Clan father of Irongut, Balek, was going to do next. He replied with, "Don't worry about them, I will be back and have them handled..." This seems to be very foreboding for Vinnie.

I joined the group of men and women headed towards the Bada Bing Inn as they feverishly sprinted to Vinnie's aid. Once we got there, clan father Balek Irongut refused to open the doors, and threatened those that were there. After a short period of arguing, the door was broken down, and people rushed in from the back. After a brief moment of thick intensity, Balek agreed to leave.

 

What will become of the Bada Bing Inn? Will Vinnie get to keep his restaurant, or will the Irongut clan be back to take him down? Find out more next week, when all of this gets resolved.

Opinion columns.

Books & Reviews.

The Farmer, by Wilhelm von Bran

“The Farmer & The Witch, or The Defeat of the Conjurer”, a two part series, is a captivating and well written story about events in an unnamed village in the Waldenian forests. It’s focussed on a man’s struggles and foes he has to deal with. Mainly in the second part is an elevating use of rhyme, making the books a joy to read.

A must read!

-Jacob Chapel

Words of the Emperor.   

To many of our fledgling state, the customs and traditions of my people of the Raev come off as foreign, *****, or outright disagreeable. Though predecessors of mine who shared my blood desired to make Oren a Raevir state all-and-all, such outlandish desires my Reign shall bring an end to. I may be the eldest of living Crows and patriarch of my House, yet I was not born amongst the people of Raev. My childhood home was the orphanage of Old Abresi, where I was warded until I was old enough to strike out on my own. Heartlander traditions and speech come more naturally to I than my blood of Raev, and I simply wish to reassure all who remain loyal to our Realm that there shall be no pushing of Raev culture or language amongst our denizens, that Raev will largely be isolated from the affairs of our realm, and that my Reign is not that of Raev, but that of Man.

Creator’s blessings to all subjects of Oren,

Tuvya Sigismundovic Carrion

Advertisement.

Letters to the editor.

In future releases, you can send a letter to Ralph of Riley ((PM to nachotp, on forums)) to our offices on Abbey Road 13 next to the Cathedral of St. Sigismund, in Petrus.

All your letters will be published here for you to express your feelings about the current state of the society, economy or maybe denounce a villainous act. We expect your letters for the current releases, they can be anonymous if you wish to.

Second edition:     ((16 September 2014))

Verbo Veritatis

Second edition

In this edition:

*Gardens for a great city

*The United Races

*A Halfling poem

Recent News.

Considerate Kidnapper

  Out side the Bada Bing Inn, a child was rescued from a kidnapper by the kid’s father. Insults were thrown back and forth by both the kidnapper and the child’s father. The kidnapper said that if the child had not been present, he would have killed the father. Quite the odd statement, coming from a man like him. The child was scared by the bandit’s threat, but no one was harmed. In the end the scoundrel put away his sword after being warned by others at the scene.

   This shows that all citizens and people of Oren bear a responsibility to act against kidnappers, bandits, ruffians and strangers. Only united can we be safe.

The Maer’s garden.

Petrus’ main square by the Saint Sigismund Cathedral  has always been a monochromatic place with few old splintering stalls and an old mossy fountain. All of that has changed as by authorization of our emperor Tuvya Carrion, a new project has begun to remodel the main square and instead of the old stalls, we now have trees, flowers and benches. The city has colours now!

It’s a great place to relax and take a deep breath while having shops nearby.

Reports

Assaults on young women

On an evening in the Deep Winter two men were seen milling around the city fountain, their appearances unknown. The pair then went on to speak to young girls and women alike, seemingly posing as healers or physicians of the sort. After a short while one of the two offered to heal a young injured woman, who kindly denied, but was then drugged and carried some distance from the city, to a blocked off cave and was tied in chains. The woman was asleep for some time, and what happened next is unclear, though the pair seemed to have been practicing some sort of dark art, chanting wildly. The woman awoke soon after, and a spell was cast so that she would only remember their names and actions. The two men, one reportedly called ‘Hanz’, left her against a rock where she stayed until a young man found her. She was safely returned to the capital and seems to be unhurt.

These actions clearly show the vile nature of citizens of Aesterwald, as there is no doubt from which place a man by the name of Hanz originates. These crimes against defenceless women can not go unanswered!

A report by Lilian

The United Races

Recently, the halflings attempted to start a group called the United Races. Their goal was to ensure peace between all races and cultures. Faiz Kharadeen, Lord Chancellor of Aesterwald, was present during the first meeting. When interviewed, he said he thought the United Races was a ‘noble cause’ and ‘a dream that has been within most hearts since we were perhaps children.’

   Others argued that world peace is impossible and that we are all born sinful and cannot get along. This was made evident when Faiz stated that the high elves refused to participate in the meeting. He went on to say that some high elves, especially the ones who live in the capital, are ‘cruel creatures.’ And although many attended the meeting, few were involved in the discussions. Fumble Willowbottom, organiser of the group, said that restrictions would be put in place to protect the peace and that there would be consequences if they were broken. It seems that peace between all races is another silly halfling dream and nothing more.

A report by Ariana

Opinion columns.

The future of Petrus.

Petrus, the young capital of the holy empire of Oren is under heavy overhaul these days, and what once was a rusty grey city, has slowly evolved into a colourful place. I remember back then, when the city was still being built that the only important matters were the guards and military, and if you were not part of it, you would have to be a noble or a mere peasant.

But those days are over as now culture flows through every corner of the city and the arts have a place to express, literature has flooded our minds and the auction houses are full of books that people desire to buy. The gardens that I mentioned earlier have given a new spark to the square giving life to everything around it.

A new public library has been established that will surely catch the attention of many to get started in the world of letters and expression, I see Petrus has a great future to come and the city is starting to blossom, new people come everyday to see it and it is just a matter of time until the the city of Petrus becomes the cultural capital of Athera.

A opinion column by Ralph Riley, editor of the Verbo Veritatis

Words of the Emperor.   

    The overthrowing of the Imperium Tertius brought a great exodus of peoples from our capital of Petrus and I have heard many comments and rumors on the state of our Quiet City. It has been no small effort to encourage those who left to return to life in the city once again, but through the efforts of my councillors, Life is once again returning to Petrus. Many years ago, a similar situation occurred in the old Capital of Abresi. A dead city even under Godfrey’s reign, our old capital was all but abandoned following the Exodus of Chivays and others. We of Carrion did not wallow in the emptiness of Old Abresi, but rather strived to resettling the city once again. Although it took us many years, Abresi was made into the mercantile and cultural center of Anthosia, the grand city playing host to more than half of our population. Though times and circumstances are different, with patience and fortitude our City of Petrus will once again become the Crown Jewel of our realm.

With this, I give reminder that taxation will be re-implemented within Petrus during the upcoming Sun’s Smile.

Tuvya Sigismundovic Carrion, Emperor of the Holy Empire of Oren

Advertisement.

Visit Vinnie’s Bada Bing Inn, just down the road towards the Cloud Temple from Petrus. It has great food and drinks, and most importantly, it sells the Verbo Veritatis!

Complimentary Poem

This week we have a free Halfling poem included in the newspaper, it’s from the future Halfling poem bundle by Jacob Chapel, soon to be sold in “Books of Oren”.

Old Fat Spider Spinnin’ in a Tree

Old fat spider spinning in a tree!

Old fat spider can’t see me!

Attercorp! Attercorp!

Won’t ya stop, stop ya spinnin’ and look for me?

Old Tomnoddy, all big body,

Old Timnoddy, can’t spy me!

Attercorp! Attercorp!

Down ya drop!

You’ll never catch me up ya tree!

Lazy Lob and crazy Cob

Are wearing webs to wing me

I am far more sweet than other meat

But still cannot find me!

Here I am, naughty little fly

Ya are fat and lazy

Ya cannot trap meh, though you try.

In ya cobwebs crazy

-Garry Bogger

Third edition:     ((25 September 2014))

Verbo Veritatis

Third edition

In this edition:

*Sea monster attacks Aldersberg

*Murders among the elves

*Is war upon us?

Recent News.

The ultimatum to Aesterwald

Aesterwald, a human region independent of the empire, has received a final call for diplomacy from our emperor Tuvya Carrion, as the empire has tried everything to try to unite Aesterwald back to Oren, which has led to nothing but negative responses and an uncovered conspiracy to attack Oren. Considering that background, the ultimatum asks Aesterwald to join the empire and be able to prosper together so all the humans are united once more, even without judging about what happened in the Zion war so we could become united once again, because if they reject the proposal, the worst case scenario would be to go at war with Aesterwald.

Quoting our emperor, Tuvya of the house Carrion,  “Humanity will only rise if we work together as a race, only if we are united we will truly prosper, and we will be able to overcome any trouble. ” we can only stick together as the Oren empire following the lead of our emperor who will lead us to better times.

The Society of Snakes

An unidentified High elf was found dead in a forest, it was determined that he was killed and the crime scene was choking. His right eyeball was removed from it's place and it was left on his right hand. It would seem that it wasn't just a simple crime, a robbery that went wrong, it might be much more.

Adding up to that murder, a wood Elf, know as Guz, bronze guard of the elven city was dropped from a ledge intentionally, when his body was inspected, they found again the right eye removed and placed on top of the right palm, but on this case, another signature was left behind, a snake was carved on his chest, probably with a knife.

With what are we dealing here? is it a mass murderer or a bandit group? terror surrounds the elves as this murders are trying to send a message but we still don’t crack the code. I hope these murders do not continue in the future.

Explosion on a dwarven library

In the dwarven capital, a tragedy occurred where there library was either attacked on there was an accident,the exact situation is still not confirmed. The incident did lead to the death of the head librarian, and the destruction of part of the library. The blast also destroyed the desk and blew a hole through the floor, cracked stone was everywhere. It is hoped the cause will be revealed soon and it was just a mere accident.

Reports

Sea monster attacks Aldersberg

On the 7th of the Grand Harvest a giant tentacled monster attacked Aldersberg, its huge pink tentacles smashing into the docks, dragging with it crates and logs. As the brave people of Oren came to Aldersberg to defend it, hordes upon hordes of crabs were thrown onto the deck by the monster. The crabs viciously clawed at the fighters, and during the long fight some were gravely injured. As the crabs were eventually fought off the tentacles retreated, only to show up again further in the bay, just North of the ship. Sadly for the monster it was perfectly in range for the ballistas and the valiant men and women of Oren fired bolt after bolt into its flesh. After wounding it severely the monster grabbed the other side of the ship, and caught two men in its grip. One of them was able to break free from the grip, but the other was pulled into the water. By perseverance and smarts the group was able to pull him out and struck a killing blow with a ballista bolt into the monster’s last tentacle.

A report by Jacob Chapel.

Opinion columns.

Dwarven and human relationships

The History of the Dwarven and Human races go back a long time, times of friendliness, times of hatred and times of bitterness. Many times have the dwarven people been at the throats of the human people and many times have the humans been at the throats of the dwarves. These I have experienced first hand. My aim is to help ensure that our people build a healthy friendship that, at times may come to be tested, but will prove to be a friendship from which both of our people benefit. The future of the land depends on our relations, and how the future is shaped will be determined greatly by our relations. I urge you to make an effort with relations improvement. We are all the citizens of the lands we live in but what is racial divide? it is simply a way of discriminations, calling out against someone else because of a thing that is out of their control, so I leave you with these final words, ‘Peace is a virtue, that will bring progress, tolerance is a virtue that brings friendship, hatred is the destruction to bridges of peace and tolerances.’

An opinion column by Grigor Grandaxe, dwarven ambassador

If you want to learn more about the Philosophy of Equality, look for the book entitled ‘True Reason’ in our shop at Abbey Road 13, Petrus.

Words of the Emperor.   

Though it has been but a short time since I have made my entrance in Petrus, already our quiet city is showing good signs. Of the squatters homes we had evicted, many have been taken up by new residents. Our Public library is the most comprehensive of it’s sort in all Athera and we boast a number of active shops, including the greatest bookstore in all the lands, our own Verbo Vertatis. Our guardly force has been reorganized and has been making great strides in reestablishing order, a number always to be found patrolling the streets or manning the newly refurbished gatehouse. A force of rangers has also been established, assisting the Knightly Order of the Red Dragon in keeping our roads safe of banditry, in fact our roads are the safest they have been to date in our time in Athera. While our militaristic forces are going along in good fashion, our economic benefactors are even greater. A daily average of our revenues is some 7,500 minas, including usage of some 3,000 minas on average. Year-to-date, the Crown has used some 30,000 minas in funding recognized orders, establishing public works, and giving fair wage to workers. At the current rate, the rate of exchange within our Empire will triple in a few short years, providing a much more fluid environment for traders and labourers to make their way.

Though we are still a long way off from making Petrus the jewel of the world, already we have made significant steps and I am eager for all of our hard work to finally pay off.

-Tuvya Sigismundovic Carrion

Advertisement.

Interior decorators for the palace

Good citizens of Oren,

I, Prince Yakov of House Carrion, am in search of an interior decorator who has both the time and ability required to work upon the Imperial Palace of Oren. Payment for such a job is up for negotiation though shall likely be substantial, depending upon the amount of work completed. If you are interested in applying for this job, I would request you send a raven to the palace at the earliest possible date.

((My username and forum name is Zezimus.))

 

Halfling poem

Wheat

A golden glisten of summer sea,

Graceful arms waving to and fro.

A warm sensation runs through,

A feeling of protect and peace bestow.

Soft movements from a gentle breeze,

Grace, prosperity is of Nature's own.

Thin straws of vigor and strength,

A sense of light against the unknown.

Land's children of grain,

Treated as a gift that provides life.

A gift of quelling formidable hunger,

A mighty savior of times of strife.

Life of giving, a seed to a stalk,

O' Nature, grant me day and week.

That the grains retain their numbers,

For a life without wheat shows bleak.

Fourth edition:     ((7 October2014))

Verbo Veritatis Fourth edition
In this edition: *Ithelias Literature Award
*Great Alrasian Purchase

*Orc Attack in Karovia

*New Orenian Anthem

And more!

Ithelias Literature Award

Books of Oren, home of the Verbo Veritatis newspaper, is proud to announce the “Ithelias Literature Award” given to the most noted writers among Athera. The award is given to those that excel in the art of combining words to knit together an exceptional piece of literature, worthy of the honours of being recognized as a true masterpiece. A grand novel, a poem, every kind of literature is valid to be picked. The award will be given every Saint’s month and it will be funded by Books of Oren and his Highness, our emperor Tuvya Segismundovic Carrion to promote  culture among our people.

The award will be a document stating the prize, and a sum of minas for the three best works of art.

The rewards are:

First prize: 2000 minas

Second prize: 1000 minas

Third prize: 500 minas

To join the competition send us a bird, with the book included, or just visit the store at Abbey Road 13a, Petrus.

Winners will be announced in a two Saint’s weeks!

The Great Alrasian Purchase

With the disappearance of the peoples of Alras in recent days, Emperor Tuvya made hasty moves to purchase the old lands of Alras from a local squatter. Recently annexed and renamed as the duchy of Karovia, Prince Aleksandr Carrion now sits as ruler of the new and burgeoning town, a proper homeland for the Raev in Oren being established.

Orc Attack in Karovia

   In Karovia, which recently joined the Empire of Oren after the Great Alrasian Purchase, orcs assaulted a defenseless young man. While this was happening Jacob Chapel walked in on them. He tried to hide, but was quickly found by the savages, and captured and kicked to the ground. There were three, a large male orc, an apparently pregnant orc and a goblin. They went by the names of Malgroth, Shadback and Smelleh, respectively.

   As they were busy extorting Jacob Chapel, the Emperor Himself arrived at the scene, covered in his Blessed Armor of St Augustus, wielding his Holy Axe of the Seven Skies. The male orc was quick to rush towards Tuvya, but his broadsword was no match for the armour. After a short fight the Emperor’s sword was covered in orc blood. However, the goblin had just struck his pickaxe into the young lad’s chest, blood covering the ugly gobbo and the lush grass. The pregnant orc and the goblin quickly bolted off, Tuvya chasing after them, and killing at least one.

   This was no help to the lad though, as he lay dying in the grass. He passed soon after Jacob Chapel took his confessions, and lies in an unnamed grave just outside Petrus. He died on the 3rd of the Deep Cold, 1474. May the Creator bless his soul.

Caroline Hightower has composed the anthem of Oren

The new anthem of Oren, Thirty to One, has been composed by the great talent that is C. A. Hightower. Its great lyrics will surely inspire the peoples of the Empire and fill their hearts with pride. The anthem is available for purchase at Books of Oren, Abbey Road 13a in Petrus. Contained within are the lyrics and instructions for the music.

Amoss’ Crimes Part 1: Assault on the Uruguan Ambassador

Legend tells of a white wizard, namely Amoss. Many say he is a psychopath, others call him a cannibal. I am here to confirm that both of these are true.

Twas a cold and wet day. As I was heading to Petrus, a gentleman with a white beard approached me, asking me for help. I of course was obliged to help him find somewhere dry to stay. I offered my office and we began walking. As we were walking I was kicked to the ground and bound in chains. He gagged me and I was dragged to the Orc capital. I believe this was an attempt to ignite the conflict between Orcs and the other races. Luckily a man witnessed this event and alerted Eraborn Greyhame. He gathered an army of Humans and Dwarves to come to my rescue. I was rescued, but my captor still lurks out there. I feel that he is a direct threat to Oren and to his Majesty Tuvya himself.

Upon returning to Petrus with many wounds from the attempts of Amoss to eat me, I was in a dire position. Luckily I was helped by a very kind gentleman, Jacob Chapel, who along with the city doctor saved me from the brink of death. Amoss’ attempts to kill me were not at an end though. He corrupted my own Co-Ambassador with a large sum of money, and had him try to assassinate me. Several shots were fired at me, and he also attempted to stab me.

Luckily the he was captured by the guard forces of Petrus and justice was served.

-A report by Ambassador Grigor of Clan Grandaxe

Part 2: Treason in Oren

Amoss’ crimes didn’t stop with the attempted assassination of Grigor Grandaxe, soon after the last events Faramith Greyhame released information about a conspiracy, of which Amoss, Eraborn Greyhame, and the rangers were a part of. Their plan was to assassinate Yakov Carrion, beloved son of the Emperor, and after that try and seize Petrus. Their plan was foolish and the mad man named Amoss was captured quickly.

Words from the High Pontiff

Greetings to the progeny of Horen,

I bid you lot fair weathers and fair harvest. I write to address the peoples in a distinguished press, the Verbos Veritatis, in hopes the Pontificate can expand its listening base to those more secular. And many have been, thanks to the ill-efforts of my predecessors, who've distanced many from the Church's goals.

Yet I hope to act with clemency and charity, and insure that the Church serves the denizens in Oren, enlightening them of the faith, administering their poor and sickly, writing its histories, ministering a breadth of education, and establishing the epicenter of Oren's culture, intellectualism, and spirituality.

At hand, the firstmost goal of our Church is to train and induct new members of the priesthood, and finish the translations of the scripture. The former has been going great, and the Church number swells to new heights not seen in decades, though many still are recruits and hence ill-fit to wholly minsiter. We hope to teach these Acolytes and Deaconry every two to three saint's days. Secondly, is the Canon; the Church has been working intensively on drafting a Common adaptation of its Holiest book, the best of the Holy Scrolls, and the foundations of its Church, so that it may be spread to more of Oren's populace, who languish in uncertainty and apathy in regards to the Allfather and his worldly instruments. We have developed two identical manuscripts of three of the seven books, a miracle in itself, yet we await a third to be sure that is His ordinance.

Unfortunately, the feast day of St. Tobias had to have been cancelled due to a rogue guard locking the city off from the good parishioners during the time of the ceremony. We hope to reschedule another feast day and fair soon enough, and we must apologize with this inconvenience. Whilst the Church has not made its presence wholly yet, this is due largely to an inexperienced budding priesthood and an undeveloped Canon. Once those are developed, we may engage in more active missions and more frequent rites and sermons.

May the Allfather protect!

Royal Marriage in Danger?

The proposed royal marriage between the Imperial Prince, Aleksandr Carrion, and the Waldian Princess, Lynn Rovin, may be in danger of breaking down! Harsh verbal arguments have broken out between Lynn and Aleksandr involving Aleksandr’s twin brother Yakov. Yakov merely made a comment about the Waldian accent, which the princess took personal offense to. She then started yelling at Yakov and also took her anger out on poor Aleksandr, who made no such comment. Lynn Rovin has also been heard slandering the Vanirs, calling them “Rude” and “Disrespectful”. The cruel woman also tried to deny little twelve year old Lorina Carrion her right to be the flower girl at the wedding, and instead tried to put a Waldian girl, not even related to her, in the position instead. The Rovin has shown clear disrespect and disregard for the Prince, the Imperial Crown, and Oren itself. And yet Aleksandr Carrion has shown fantastic persistence in marrying her for the sake of uniting all of Humanity under one Empire. May the Creator have mercy on his life.

-A report by Jarrik Bloodstone

Fifth edition:     ((31 October 2014))

Verbo Veritatis Fifth edition In this edition:

*Aesterwald united with Oren

*Yakov’s Betrayal

*A report from Kal’Agnar

*And more!

A deserved apology to our readers.

It has been long enough since the previous edition was released, and I ask for your understanding. I, Ralph Riley, had caught a terrible illness, that medications could not really fight. Feverish and unable to work, Jacob Chapel kept the bookstore working, but the paper could not continue without me. Now I have finally recovered from my illness and I am up to my feet, and this release marks the return of the paper.

Aesterwald united with Oren

On the 11th of Sun’s Smile, 1477, Aesterwald finally joined Oren, uniting humanity once more. Voron Rovin I, Kö*** of Aesterwald, and Tuvya, our dear Emperor, signed the Act of Unification bringing together the two realms. From now on Aesterwald and all its vassals are part of our nation, and house Rovin is a Duke Elector in the Empire.

Humanity should rejoice at this act of peace, kindness, and unity in this time of great peril. Let the united Oren be a strong force against the undead blight.

The unification act is visible in the public library of Petrus, and for sale at Books of Oren.

Prince Yakov’s Betrayal

A great tragedy has unfolded in our dear capital city of Petrus, after our beloved Imperial Prince, Yakov of the royal house Carrion, was last seen leaving Petrus riding a horse heading towards the north. It is unknown what happened on his voyage, but one thing is certain, he is no longer the cheerful man we knew. He is now part of the undead menace and we hope that it was against his will to join them.

But all of this was yet unknown when he-who-was-Yakov entered Petrus and requested a meeting with Tuvya, accompanied by two staff wielding fiends and an armoured dwarf. Our dear Emperor was attacked, and in a valiant battle he was able to slay the evil monsters. Quickly the Wardens, Sonn Ander, and Airthorn came to his help. The battle was won, and he-who-was-Yakov was captured, but at great cost. Our dear Emperor was struck by Iblees’ lightning and gravely injured. To add insult to this, the being that once was Yakov was able to escape, after a great explosion.

Our feelings of safety and pride have been tarnished, and the wounds of this betrayal will never heal. It will take time, but Oren will rebuild and get stronger, and defeat the undead menace and get vengeance for the injustice and savagery. Carry on Carrion, and Creator bless our Emperor and nation!

A report from Kal’Agnar

“Upon my entrance into the former capital of the Dwarves, I see much has changed. A gruesome disfigured cultist stands upon the wall of dark stone, waiting to be called upon by his fellow cultists to raise the darkened gates. The once luscious and green rolling hills of this mountainland now bear the signs of darkness seeping into the soil and killing off all that lives. The city seems to be fighting against the evil that’s entangling it, and turning it into a hall of death. The only witnesses of this being the cultists who slit the throats of the innocent, spilling blood upon the one life filled ground. A cavern to the left of the gates show signs of new inhabitants. The cavern called Asgol is watched over by the corrupted Doomforges. They bear the marks of cultists, and I can only assume they live in this dark covered haven of death and despair. Along with death being strewn into the hills around the city, a substance of pure read laces through the hills, and a pillar stands near the entrance to the mountain hall, made of the same red substance. It is lit aflame and is perhaps a shrine to Iblees, or some deceptive pillar put up only to mock the once great capital. Fires burn in the hillsides, never wavering in the cold winds flowing through the mountains.

It seems as though the new residents of left large portions of the capital untouched, though. The mines seem to be sealed shut. As I wander about through the capital I come across a house built into the hillside. A steady stream of bloody water leaks out of a pipe heading out of the house. Limbs seem to be stuck in the drain, forcing spurts of bloody water out and onto the land. Dark ominous rain clouds float above, drearily drifting past, untouched and unknowing of the evil and death that lays below.

My journey through the capital lead me to the gate once again, where a man stoop pleading for help to cross the deadly ravine between the mountains. While leaving a ghostly sight crossed before my eyes, a steed of pure bone, bearing no flesh, with a rider wearing the face of a pig and the body of a man. The city has been bearing the weight of this darkness for some time. It is changing, growing in new ways that can define its path. These cultists prove to only kill viciously and with no defined reason and murder the innocent common folk who walk about.”

Reporter attacked by bandits

An eyewitness account from our reporter, Telperian Faroar

“Just upon leaving Petrus my path seemed to be barred by two elven bandits. They seemed small, perhaps wood elves. Although I could not see much under their cover of darkness and the rusty chainmail that covered most of their bodies, leaving only hands and face exposed to the faint light of the moon through the rustling forest leaves. They held ferrum blades, with the lives of others before me stained upon the dull surfaces of the blades. I was outnumbered and unarmed. I took my chance, seeing a narrow path, as I knew I could be killed if I’d stay and try to talk my way out of it. I sprinted off through with fearless steps as my damp leather boots hit the ground. I hid behind a tree and waited. The two elves had been slow to notice my escape, but they pursued me nonetheless. From where I stood I could hear their heavy breaths. I took a risk and peered out from behind the trunk of the tree I was leaning against, noticing the two men not far apart, one following a few paces behind the other. If only I had a weapon… Rummaging through my bag I located my bow. Removing it quietly, I notched a feathered arrow with ferrum tip. I drew the string up to my cheek, and all was silent except for the heavy breathing of the two elves. I leaned out from behind the tree, taking aim at the man in the back. As I released the bolt it whistled into the night, heading towards the man’s foot. A scream pierced the darkness as the arrow struck the man into his calf. The next arrow found its target, and lodged itself into the elf’s chest. The screaming increased in volume, and his companion yelled out into the darkness “Show yourself and fight, you coward!” At these words I began to whistle a merry tune. I released more arrows in their direction, and gave them a slight smile before running off, disappearing through the trees.”

The Karovian Column

Imperial Marriage in Peril???

When first asked to write this week’s column on the quiet and peaceful town of Karovia, I of course asked myself… What would the people of Oren like to read? A thrilling piece on the construction of Prince Aleksandr’s newly erected fortress perhaps? A finely worded treatise on the governing institutions which keep Karovian society afloat? Or even a riveting article on how the good people of this town go about living their daily lives? No. For we all know the real reason why the people of Oren choose to read this great newspaper over the rest. Why, to indulge themselves in the latest gossip and hearsay of course!

 

Word on the street has it told that the Imperial Prince Aleksandr and his newly wedded wife Lynn Rovin’s marriage is in danger! Sources on the ground have told us that the pair were heard to be partaking in a bitter argument, late into the hours of the night. Supposedly the subject of such feud regarded Lynn’s desire to have a child, a suggestion which Aleksandr has adamantly ruled out. It has even been suggested that he may be considering offloading his significant other in favour of a new mistress! In the past the pair have not been unknown for their turbulent marital status, having been forced into partnership in a bid to create peace between the Holy Empire of Oren and the Königreich of Aesterwald. Thankfully unification has succeeded, though as we know, the marriage itself has left much to be desired. Unfortunately our sources have reported that Aleksandr has so far refused to answer any of our questions on the matter!

 

So dear readers, what is next for our Imperial Prince? Will he succumb to his wife’s wishes? Or will he emerge a fighter after all? Find out next time in the Karovian Column of Verbo Veritatis, Edition Six!

 

Column written by an anonymous source from within Karovia.

Sixth edition:     ((9 November 2014))

Verbo Veritatis

Sixth Edition

23rd of The Grand Harvest, 1480

In this edition:

• Rebellion by Maric and the Knights

• City of Dwarves reclaimed

• The Karovian column

• Words from the Emperor

• And more!

Reporters needed for the newspaper

Dear readers, as always we are in great need of reporters for our esteemed newspaper, especially now Ralph Riley has stepped down from his position because of his prolonged battle with illness. Since patronage of the Emperor has been secured, we are able to pay much better rates for articles. As a reporter you can expect up to 500 minas per article!

The work is freelance, and you are paid per article delivered. Please contact Jacob Chapel if you are interested ((Pepernoot, either ingame or on forums)).

The Knights Rebellion

In one of the greatest moves of treachery in our time, Maric Varodyr, once Grand Knight of the realm, and part of the Order of the Red Dragon has taken up arms against the Empire.

After word had reached the Emperor that Maric was conspiring against the integrity of the Empire, intending to break it up into pieces. Immediately the Emperor dismissed him from his position, but Maric fled to the Keep of Angren and barricaded himself in there, along with a few rebels.

Our grand Emperor demanded Maric to leave the keep, but the traitor defied these orders and claimed the keep for his own. Hiding inside the keep he proclaimed himself King of Renatus, a claim so audacious and without any real claim to the title, he must surely be absolutely mad drunk on power.

As of now the traitors are still hiding behind the walls of Angren, awaiting their certain and inevitable death. Quoting our Emperor. “Do not recognise this traitor who has so aptly deemed fit to call himself King without any form of legitimization from the Church or the faith. Fight back against the foreign tyrants who would dare infringe upon our sovereignty, despite their signing of various treaties intended to ensure such would not be so. Yet do not fight because of who you are, Highlander, Heartlander or Farfolk. Fight because by the creator above, you will never allow such a spineless snake-tongued worm as Maric Varodyr to sit upon the throne of humanity”

May the Creator strike the traitors down, and Carry on Carrion.

The City of the Dwarves reclaimed

Since the reconquest of the dwarven capital, the dwarves have been very busy to rebuild and reclaim their old capital. Nearly all signs of the Undead occupation have been removed and a lot of work is being done to rebuild the homes of the dwarves, under the guidance of Lord Balek Ironguy and Thurland Grandaxe, the architects of the arts guild. The new city will be completely situated in the mountains, with farmland in the valley in front of the entrance to the mountain home.

 

The new city has been named Kal’Karaad, and it should be ready for habitation in 2 saints days ((11 November)). We of the Verbo Veritatis wish the dwarves happiness and prosperity in their new capital, and hope that it may last a thousand years. Sadly the dwarves have not returned our goodwill to help in the current rebellion of the knights, and have retracted their offer to come to our assistance.

Formation of the House of Magnates

The Emperor has formed Oren's first legislative body! Known as the House of Magnates, it consists of representatives, or magnates, of all the nobles of the realm, along with the burghers of Petrus. The higher one's title is, the more representatives and votes, one gets. The body votes on appointing various ministers, akin to privy councillors, who make up the government. It is led by the Lord Chancellor who acts as virtually an under-king to the Emperor, working on the day to day affairs of the realm. Currently the Chancellor is Joachim var Sarkoz, a learned barrister from the court of King Francis who has been appointed by the Emperor to help facilitate the establishment of the Magnates while the nobles and emperor focus on the military expenditures at hand. He shall rule for three years, before he is either voted in again by the various Magnates or a new Chancellor, or known more colloquially as the Prime Minister, is appointed by the Magnates. Let us hope Prime Minister Joachim can guide our country to glory!

Holy ward over Petrus

On the 10th of The First Seed, mages have cast an undead weakening ward over our grand city of Petrus. The main effects of this is to dispel the effects of their magics. The mages creating the magic, one of them being the ancient wizard Blundermore, forged a magic crystal and lifted it up into the air, defying gravity. From the crystal lights and other magical effects originate, bringing a feeling of safety and calm over the city.

The populace can rejoice over this noble effort of the mages, and it is hoped that the ward will keep the undead away for a long time.

The Karovian Column

A Tragic End

Over to the news from Karovia this week, and it appears that her husband’s reluctance to give her a child has finally pushed poor Lynn Rovin over the edge. The other day, her body was found lying at the bottom of a cliff face, her stomach punctured with knife wounds. Though it has not yet been confirmed, early evidence appears to suggest that the blows were self inflicted. What an unpleasant end to what could have surely been a most enduring marriage… This newspaper would like to extend its deepest condolences to her widowed husband, the Imperial Prince, Aleksandr Carrion for his tragic loss.

In other news, yet more spook-filled sightings of the Imperial Prince’s late twin brother, Yakov Carrion! As reported in Edition Five, little is known of Yakov’s decision to betray Oren to the Undead scourge, though recent events suggest he has returned to to seek vengeance against close members of his family. We can only hope that the guard remain vigilant in these dark and dreary times. In brighter news however, Aleksandr is said to have found a new wife to replace his dearest beloved. Rumour has it that this is said to be Lynn’s very own sister! We suspect it shall not be long before we have another royal wedding on our hands!

So dear readers, with his wife’s demise and his brother’s fall to the Undead, where will Aleksandr turn now? Find out next time in the Karovian Column of Verbo Veritatis, Edition Seven!

Column written by an anonymous source from within Karovia.

Words from the Emperor

To the loyal fellows of Orenia,

Though some minor rebellion plagues our lands, a simple matter it will be to drive out the meager forces assembled under the traitor Maric Varodyr. Such a petty uprising is of little consequence in the grand scheme of our Holy Empire, such writing on this day regards the welfare of our capital, Petrus.

When I had first been elected by the Electorate to serve as Emperor, Petrus had been little more than a ghost town. Now I am happy to say Petrus is the single most populated city in not only our realm, but of the world itself. This cannot be attributed to I, but to the true heartlander’s of Petrus who have graced this city with life. Petrus stands as the jewel of our modern world, in not just the strong economy, but in terms of cultural regards, social mobility, and military might.

Nowhere else in Athera can one find a public library with such a vast array of knowledge available to the public, nowhere else in Athera maintains our efficient system of free food, and nowhere else in Athera upholds a city guard as do our Wardens of the Imperial Watch, a Watch at current roster twenty-four men strong.

The average daily income to Petrus coffers is 5,000 minas. The average yearly budget for the Imperial Watch is 20,000 minas. Petrus maintains a budget of 44,000 minas for building improvements and public works. Average yearly tax income is 4,000 minas. Petrus holds 53 separate plots, of which only 8 are not filled at the time of this writing; 43 plots had paid taxes last tax cycle. Truly the economic structure of Petrus is unmatched by any city in the world, and this does not take into account the great industrial capability of our Holy City. Within Petrus are produced the finest weapons and armor in the entire world, with the most efficient labor force in the world harvesting vast quantities of wheat, ores, stone, and wood everyday.

Unlike the treasuries of many other nations, the majority of goods produced are not stashed away but sold as surplus to the citizens of Petrus, weapons and armor worthy of Kings can be found for open sale and in quantity, at a pittance compared to what one may find at the cloud temple auctioneer.

Though there is much more than just numbers to Petrus, I hope this has given some insight into our holy Capital and I am proud for all the fellows of Petrus who make our city the jewel of the world.

Creator watch over us all,

Tuvya Sigismundovic Carrion

 

Return of the Order of Saint Amyas

The Order of Saint Amyas has been reformed, with Adrian de Bar as its new Grand Master. Shockingly though, Adrian quickly pledged his support to Maric’s traitorous cause and was convicted of treason. After persuasion by Oren, and a lot of mercy on the side of the Emperor, he was returned to the fold quickly though. Hopefully he is wise enough to not betray Oren again.

We hope that the Order will become a beacon of purity and righteousness, especially in these dark times, and that honest God-fearing men fight for its cause.

Petrus tavern under new management

As the old Throdo has not been able to properly take care of the tavern at the central square in Petrus, the tavern has been granted to a new owner. The tavern has been renamed “the Drunken Dragon”, and it has been quite busy indeed.

The Verbo Veritatis wishes Sam good luck with running the tavern, and may many drinks be drunk!

 

 

We hope you enjoyed the newspaper, and remember: Athera’s greatest bookstore, “Books of Oren”, is the publisher of this great paper. There are shelves upon shelves of amazing books for incredibly low prices. Visit us at Abbey Road 13, Petrus!

If you enjoyed the paper please visit our bookstore at Abbey Road 13, Petrus.

OOC:

I'm going to update this post with every new newspaper, if we have the time that's every weekend. Feedback is always nice!

Remember, you can get them for free in-game too! just visit Petrus, Karovia or The Viridian inn.

 Jacob Chapel mumbles to himself  "I guess that column finally pushed her over the edge...  "

For sale now at Books of Oren, Abbey Road 13, Petrus.

As you walk through your local town, you see a flyer nailed against a tree. You walk towards it and read what it says.

"Books of Oren, home of the Verbo Veritatis newspaper, is proud to announce the “Ithelias Literature Award” given to the most noted writers among Athera. The award is given to those that excel in the art of combining words to knit together an exceptional piece of literature, worthy of the honours of being recognized as a true masterpiece. A grand novel, a poem, every kind of literature is valid to be picked. The award will be given every Saint’s month and it will be funded by Books of Oren and his Highness, our emperor Tuvya Segismundovic Carrion to promote  culture among our people.

The award will be a document stating the prize, and a sum of minas for the three best works of art.

The rewards are:

First prize: 2000 minas

Second prize: 1000 minas

Third prize: 500 minas

To join the competition send us a bird, with the book included, or just visit the store at Abbey Road 13a, Petrus.

Winners will be announced in two Saint’s weeks!"

((PM me the books, or put the book in the "Letters for the Editor" donation chest outside the shop. All current nominees will be listed in this post. Have fun writing!))

Entered books:

V. zu Holtz: Wes Osullivan

A. Caulfield: The Sewer, Urban Myths 1, The Guard

L. Tython: Moonlight Dance

F. Freely: The Double Dragon series

Ser P. Ryan: It's Hard Being Handsome

Jacob Chapel sits quietly at the table, surrounded by his scrolls and books. He listens intently to all the members of the council, occasionally scribbling something down on parchment using his quill, and dipping it into an ink pot afterwards.

Hey, I logged on again after a while, but I've been turned into a Wandering Soul instead of Diamond VIP.

Hopefully this can be fixed soon, thanks in advance.

Edit: MCname is "Pepernoot"

Was excited for the update. Not so much anymore now my 16k minas turned into 315 minas...

((Obligatory:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAn7baRbhx4

))

As Levon Ithelias was just about to leave his estate in Glenwood, a page runs up to him notifying him of the meeting organised by Prince Lancel..

"Hm, seems I'll have to attend this. Boy, you can let the Prince know I will be there."

The page nods "Yes, My Lord." And leaves Glenwood to inform the Prince.

((If the time of the meeting doesn't change, I'll be able to attend it. It will depend on the time of the battle if I can be there (I'm european, so it can't be too late ;) ) ))

Wilcomb nods replies to the man

"Ah, I be Wilcomb. Jus' send a bird to th' druid grove in Salvus if ye want ta contact me."

Wilcomb hears the man and walks up to him.

" 'Ello mister, I'd love ta join ye on yer expedition. Should I give ye th' coin now or later?"

Some more things that can be implemented right now:

Rum:

(Creates a Potion of Weakness (extended) )

-

Grog (2x):

Rum + Bottle of water

Grog is a Potion of Weakness

-

Tequila:

Creates a Potion of Harming

-

Whiskey (aged in an oaken barrel):

Creates a Potion of Slowness

*As you stroll around the Wilven Sanctuary you notice a piece of parchment nailed onto the apple tree*

Dear reader,

As you might know we're in the fifth Asulonion decade. Because of this, I, Orris Rushen, am in search of events that have happened in Asulon since the day we arrived here.

These events are going to be compiled into a chronicle so that the people of Asulon will remember the heroes and learn from mistakes that have been made.

Be it the founding of towns, cities or nations. The birth or death of great heroes or villains. Terrible disasters or joyous celebrations, any event that is or has been important to Asulon will be added to the chronicle.

As one man can't know what has happened in all of Asulon, I request your help. Please send me a bird or leave a message below this parchment, specifying an event and the time and place, so that the chronicle will be as complete as possible.

-Orris Rushen.

Actually usable recipes:

(4x) Netherbrick:

(6x) Netherfence:

Multiple buckets. (Cheaper to craft to make serving ale less annoying):

Finally it's back!

Been missing it for months... LotC wasn't the same for me without it.

((Held the borders? I could just walk in & out without seeing anyone.

And a road through the mountains? Didn't see the start of the path I made going to the west, around the mountains, just outside of Mireton?))

((Hmm.. I have actually been online a few times lately (not at American times), telling me beforehand wouldn't have hurt.

Anyways, Mireton's infected by the plague. I did this because of the huge amount of towns in Renatus, keeping a town active and alive is barely impossible. I wanted to set this up in RP this week, but didn't have the time. (And you wouldn't have seen me IC, because, again, timezone difference.)

I think it would be best not to have people living in the town anymore and instead in the capital because Renatus is segregated enough already as it is. (tip: as good as no one likes rping a serf).

I hope you keep the beauty of the area and don't destroy that, good luck with the rest.))

Roger tacks on a note on the bottom

"If Seventis still needs food, Mireton can provide bread for just 180 minas per bundle.

Send Duke Ithelias of Pruvia ((Pepernoot)) a bird if you're interested."

House Name: House Ithelias

House Sigil or Crest:

House Standing: Currently the house is unlanded.

House Lands: None

Banner Houses or Greater Liege House: -

House Family Members Living:

• Levon Ithelias
  
• Ophelia Ithelias
  
• Robert Ithelias
  
• Walter Ithelias
  
• Ahern II Ithelias
  

House Family Members Important:

• Cerlos Ithelias, Royal Librarian of Alras, Steward of Galahar.
  
• Roger Ithelias, Founder of Mireton, Duke of Pruvia.

Family Tree:

Coming soon

Family History:

Prequel

House Ithelias is a noble family, of over a century old, rising in the end days of Aegis. And can trace their bloodline back to Horen. They’re very strict about purity of blood, and don’t tolerate any half-breeds or humans with non-human blood in their veins.

Leaving the south

Until the 14th Century of the First Era the Itheliae lived in Whitekeep, a small village in the south of Aegis. This changed when Cerlos, eldest son of the surly Zydar Ithelias left his home town for the northern regions of Aegis. After traveling from the deep south to the North, moving from town to town, through the lush green valleys and over the rolling hills with the crops growing in the blessed sun.

Cerlos’ arrival in Oren & the loss of his home

Cerlos would eventually find the snowy town of Alstion and although he was aware of the looming threat of the undead in the cold north, he found Saint Dan, the founder of Alstion and old King of Al’Khazar, and haggled with him over the price of the home, a mere six hundred minas.

In Alstion Cerlos made a living by chopping wood in the grand redwood forests and later also serving in the Alstion Rangers. It was here where he met people he would know for the rest of his life, people he would meet again all around Aegis, after the undead forces swept through the north, destroying the walls of the battered towns, and leaving the people of the north homeless and scattered across Aegis.

A new chance and a new passion

Not long after the destruction of Alstion Cerlos found the city of Lunavara, west of Al’Khazar. It was here where he would find that what would become the most important thing of his life, a passion for the books of Aegis. When he arrived in the town he did some small jobs at first, but when he saw the empty library, he knew only one thing. He needed to fill it with books. He travelled around Aegis, and met a lot of people, mostly scholars and other librarians on his search for books, people Rivell Gordian, Ambros and Nitholiak vonSchlichten.

Eventually the library was full, and he grew tired of the long journey to the faraway town, so he started his own library near Al’Khazar. At that time he had made quite some money and could afford living in the grand capital of Oren, as well as owning a range of other buildings and shops there.

Not a long time later he was contacted by the High King of Alras, Syrio Forel, to build the grandest library Aegis had ever seen. Around this time Cerlos met Estaro, his little brother, again, whom he hadn't seen for almost thirty years. Estaro didn't bring good news though, he left Whitekeep after Zydar and Catherine had passed away.

Finding love and happiness

Cerlos was not the youngest anymore and neither was he a hero of war, but he was a man blessed by god, and the knowledge he collected. In Alras he met the noblewoman Laela conDoin, of the great house conDoin. They were once known in all of Oren, but like most great men and families they were lost in the suffocating sands of time. Cerlos employed her to help him with the Alrasian library, but they quickly found out their relation was more than just business. They soon married and lived happily in their mansion in Alras, protected by their faithful guards, one of which, Servius Magdu, whould stay with the family for decades and protect them with his life.

The overgrown sands of Galahar

The move to Galahar was a thing that was inevitable for Cerlos, as his aging body couldn’t stand the cold of the north much longer. In the years that followed the fall of Alstion and Snowy Fields the undead, and the cold, continued their advance south with the warmth of the south slowly being drained from the soil and air. While this meant that Al’Khazar and even Alras were covered in snow parts of the year, it had a different consequence. The once dry sands of Kramroe were slowly turning into a green meadow. Cerlos and Laela moved south to Galahar, the Knight town, after Cerlos got a job as the architect of the castle, when the old architect vanished without a sign.

For the completion of the castle, and a small fee, Cerlos got his own plot inside the walls of Galahar and designed his family a home there. It was at this time that Roger Ithelias, the son of Cerlos and Laela, was born.

The beauty of new life

In one of the last warm summers of Aegis, in the year 1334 of the First Era, Laela gave birth to a baby boy. Both she and Cerlos agreed it would be best for him to grow up in the Sister City, away from any dangers that were around in the busy town of Galahar.

This was a very sensible decision of them, because the coming years would be known as those of turmoil. After Robert Banstir’s death Galahar descended into chaos, with banditry and corruption running rampant. Cerlos was the Steward of the town for a few years, and even executed multiple bandits, one of which the notorious Kane, but the region barely calmed down. The problems got even worse when Al’Khazar, capital of Oren, was destroyed and Galahar became the de facto capital of Oren.

But this was far from the end of the troubles. Big changes came to Galahar when Enor Sheffield, “The mad King”, gave the throne to Oren’s worst enemy, Gaius Marius of the Teutonic Knights. The southern regions of old Oren didn’t accept this criminal as their King, and successfully revolted against his rule.

Death of the Librarian

At this time Cerlos was politically put out of play in Galahar and got ill as the cold spread through the streets of Galahar. He passed away in his bed surrounded by his family and friends in the year 1342.

The road to adulthood and the loss of a world

Roger was eight at the time of his father’s demise, he lost his great example but was lucky to have the family guard Servius around. Servius taught the boy not only how to wield and use a blade, but also some well needed manners. Unlike Cerlos Roger didn’t mind the cold of Galahar when he moved there from the safety of the Sister City. He made friends, build snowforts and looked at the busy armoured Knights in the town. When he was around fifteen years old he joined the Knights, but never fought with them due to the almost immediate evacuation of Galahar after and undead attack.

Together with his mother and Servius Roger moved back to the Sister City to live the last of the days of Aegis there. In the Sister City Roger met Maria Roderigo, a fair haired woman. They immediately fell in love and went on to live together in the Sister City, close to Laela.

A new world, a new beginning

The end of Aegis was coming near, a large part of the population of Aegis was living in the various refugee camps scattered across the south. At this time the rumours of a new land surfaced, and ships were being constructed in the realm of “The Verge” an island on the verge of the known world. As the days slowly ticked by the undead were relentless in their advance, and as many people, Roger, Laela, Servius and Maria also fled to the Verge. They secured a place on the human ship as they awaited the departure, not knowing if they would make it there alive, or if there even was a place to sail to.

After the long journey to Asulon, the new world, the hard times didn’t end. Hunger and disease were everywhere in the first few months, but slowly civilization began to emerge. During these hard times Maria gave birth to her and Roger’s child, Jane Primera Ithelias, named after (presumably) being the first child born in the new world. The family searched for a location to settle, and eventually were warmly welcomed by the dwarf King Syrio of Alras where they were given a tent to live in.

Alrasian business

Roger did his best to provide for his family buy one dreaded day Maria was gone. Left without saying goodbye. This was a hard thing to cope with for Roger but he managed to take care of his baby daughter and work to provide for them. In these hard times Roger not only lost his beloved woman, but also his mother. Laela Ithelias-conDoin passed away in Alras in the second year of the Second Era. Eventually though he managed to acquire a tavern in Alras, with a view of the bay. He hired workers and managed to secure a steady supplier of wheat, barley and hops.

Moving south again

After a decade Roger became more disgruntled and dissatisfied with the Alrasian council and the general culture of the city. Mori had been invading and even kidnapping and killing people, but neither the council or the military acted. Criminals weren’t punished and people were slowly leaving for other places. Roger, Jane and a bunch of good friends didn’t like to stay either to see it until the end. They prepared supplies and left to settle in the western region of Renatus, where they would be left alone and would live in a close and friendly human community.

Mireton

In the beginning the town of Mireton grew steadily, with homes being build one after the other. After a few years the town had a visit of Godfrey of Horen, with the purpose of uniting the nobles of Renatus under one common goal, through this Roger Ithelias became the Duke of Pruvia. A few years later the town started to have problems, things weren’t as easy as they were in the first years. The family and townsfolk sticked together under Roger’s leadership, even restoring the Black Keep, the old ruin not far from the town.

Around the year 32 the plague struck Asulon, soon spreading to Mireton. The town suffered greatly under the disease and Roger’s life was taken by it. The townsfolk that could leave left, including Jane and Ahern Ithelias and their children.

The western lands

Leaving Mireton and the duchy behind, Ahern and Jane settled in a small farmhouse in the western lands, raising their five children, Levon, Ophelia, the twins Robert and Walter and the youngest, Ahern II. The life in the countryside was good but harder than in the comforts of a city manor. This took a toll on Ahern and Jane, which died after living almost two decades in the West. Leaving their relatively young children, ranging between nineteen and twenty seven behind.

Not wanting to stay in the house they grew up, Levon travelled ahead of the rest and settled with the city of Glenwood, where he was well received by the Count. Levon took care of the construction of the new family manor in the city, using part of the family fortune to build it.

Not long before the mansion was completed Levon’s siblings started arriving in Glenwood, settling one by one in their new hometown.

Roger looks at Nico, quite agitated.

I believe you've drunk too much of your wine. Like I said I support His Royal Highness with his claim on the land now, fallen asleep for a moment? And you should not talk about me not being able to lead my own Duchy. Since I have founded Mireton the region has done nothing but prosper. Do you have to resort to unfounded personal attacks because you disagree with someone?

Roger turns to Arthur and Throdo and speaks up.

"Surely you must know that the area isn't exactly suitable for farming and lumbering? The mountains are high and steep and the small farmlands can only provide for the population of the towns itself. Not only this, but for a trading company wouldn't it be more useful to have a base close to larger cities and busy roads than in a province far away from either?"

Roger then turns to Richard

"Methinks that if we'd work together closely, continuing my work I've started in Pruvia by making Marna also a Duchy filled with game and grand forests, I can support your claim to Marna."

As Roger heard the pleas of the others for Marna, he rose up, looking at his King to get permission to speak. After Godfrey grants him permission he starts his plea.

“Your Majesty and my peers, I am very grateful for the Duchy of Pruvia that I have been granted and while some men would be content with this Methinks in truth that it would be better for not only the region but also the entire Kingdom if I was granted the Duchy of Marna.

While some might accuse me of being power hungry for making such a demand, this is not the case. Because I don’t want to waste any of your time, I will elaborate on my motivations now.

As a start my town of Mireton, the peaceful village situated in between the misty mountains of the West, is almost cut in half by the divide of the regions. I thank His Majesty for making the divide just outside of the town borders, but as one might understand, it’s not completely an ideal situation.

Secondly, why do the same mountain ranges, the same rivers, streams and lakes need to be cut up between two Dukes? Why go against the natural order God has created for us? Why wouldn’t we follow the natural borders He has made in this beauteous land.

Just like Pruvia, the lands of Marna have a lot of potential locked within them. As some might have noticed already the once empty mountainsides are slowly coloured by the newly planted evergreen pines I have my workers plant. The locals have already noticed the slow return of game to the once dead lands. This on the contrary with the plains of Greenshire, once greened with trees and full of Game for Your Majesty to hunt.

Lastly dividing the mountainous lands will lead to more bureaucracy and will make the Kingdom more divided than would be desired.

If I am granted this land by Your Highness, I will rule it just like I rule Pruvia. I will, god willingly, be just and serve the Kingdom before everything until my death, just like my late father, Cerlos Ithelias.“

After his plea Roger sits back in his seat, waiting for the reply of the King and the reactions of the other noblemen.

((If you want to know how Pruvia looks now, look here))