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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 Dubty’Azh (XXI) — Dub’Kint’H’Futh (CCIX) D.A. ORC POLITICS Interviewing the Rex It was during the Wagh, 3 years ago, that Daahd’Lur stepped down as Rexkhan, and Rhak’Dom became Rex. In a simultaneous declaration, the Khanate was separated into two again; Caurost and Lurak thus stand as united as before, but with Caurost having gained full sovereignty over the Silent Valley. The new Rex was kind enough to answer a few questions for the Kaktuz Weekli. They have been translated to common, but note that the Rex himself did speak in common. What is your stance on Orcs fighting alongside canonists? Some brothers have said that they do not like how close we are getting to them. “It is necessary to have allies and to build coalitions.” he explained. “All faiths can be respected, so long as they oppose Iblees: respect for the dead, cremating the dead, souls moving on- these are natural things.” “For humans, they have the Skies, for us we have Stargush'Ztroh. The Canonists are humans. They worship their spirits and gods.” “Are we to be enemies with all who take opposite gods even when they offer us tribute?” “Or are we to take the tribute and build a stronger homeland for all Orcs?” If they are paying tributes, are they really allies? Does that not make them subjugated? “Subjugating or not, gift-giving is an honored process, and allows us to participate in the world's politics without damning ourselves to being besieged.” “When they offer tribute, they are offered peace. When they shirk peace, they are free game for us to take from.” Will your Rexdom be a continuation of that of Daahd’Lur? Do you have plans for internal politics so far? “Yes, until we reach the numbers to form Greater Krugmar, and unify all orcs beneath one banner. [Tiderippa] is a good Dominus, so we keep him. And the new Targoth is Jaelon'Dom, a relative of mine. One of the greatest fighters on the continent!” “A Klamor will be planned once our numbers are sufficient and our armories replenished.” After a pause, he considered. “I still ponder what moves to take. I have been dealing with foreign policy.” What will be your doctrine regarding Shamanism? “It is the state religion.” he simply stated. When prompted about the recent erosion of spiritual practice, he accused. “Perhaps if the shamans stopped teaching Elves, we would have more of them.” And what of the practice of non-Ibleesian worship in Lurak? “It depends. They will not be treated the same, but if our vassals have other religions, and pay their taxes, I do not care.” Regarding Lurkhan [the capital city], Rex Daahd’Lur had a policy against wild shrines. Will you be continuing on that trend? “Lurkhan honors Krug. But if people wish to build shrines across our territories, they may. Lurkhan will remain the same, besides small bits of construction.” He then added; “If you find a spot in the city you wish to build a shrine, you can let me know. I do not mind giving allowances on a case-by-case basis.” -Gharak’Yar FOREIGN AFFAIRS Babble2Brook With the war over, the time to move and rebuild has begun for the Musin. It didn’t take long for another new home to be found in the redwoods of Urguan. High in the trees to below the roots they reside in a coveted peace. Clean cut and set wood bridges with a look over the ground like a bird in a tree they play and talk and have fun all day long. But to achieve this state of fun and games work had to be put in and months of hard work both verbally and physically. Patches taking the lead on this project was the best choice overall with his ability to unite the community along with his dedication to numerous Musin living projects over the years that have had various levels of success but success nonetheless. This stands as a New Testament to a resurfacing friendship with Musin and dwarven, kind last seen in Almaris when The MouseHole and Ronam Manor stood. Hopefully this project stays Mori free for the time and future! -Spuds ORCISH CULTURE Orcish Clans Orcish society is divided into clans, but what are they exactly? Although all orcs are bound by Krug’s honor, their values vary from one to one. Thus, like-minded orcs may form a clan, which will then foster its own culture. Clans tend to come and go as the culture shifts, and looking at the balance between them might be one of the best ways to understand the cultural movements within the Horde. Current orcish clans include Dom and Lur, which should sound familiar, ase they are among the oldest clans. Some clans are tied to activities; Lur is a clan of hunters, where Raguk gathers metalworkers and alchemists, and those who seek knowledge often join Yar. Those “activities” are in fact forms of worship or rituals. It is for the spirits that Lurs hunt, and when the Lak clan settles in the swamps, it is to honor Laklul, the spirit of swamps and swamp creatures. Yars often become shamans in their quest for wisdom (as I did), and the Akaal find spiritual worship in rituals of blood. Their common goal of worshipping the Spirits and the Ancestors means that clans are usually not at odds with each other; they are not like human families or their backstabbing court clans. One is free to change their clan, and while the kubs born in a clan are regarded as being part of it, they usually chose their own clan once they grow into adulthood. -Gharak’Yar Writers — Spuds @Turbo_Dog, Gharak’Yar @Gomoore Illustrator & Head publisher — Gharak’Yar
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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 Dubty (XX) — Azh’Kint’H’Futhty’H’ (CXCV) D.A. ORC POLITICS Klamor — and the new Government A few years have passed since Daahd’Lur assumed the position as Rex at the head of our orcish nation. Daahd has proved to be very involved with reforms, and The Iron Horde has seen several restructurations. First, the orcish nation is now known as the Luraki Rexkhanate —or Lurak for short—, and has worked to form a multicultural empire (see below) The oasis nested at the East of the Krugmarian desert, which housed our settlements since we arrived on Aevos has also been abandoned in favour of a large cave in the nearby mountains. Visitors may now visit the new capital, Lurkhan, by following the coastline South-West of the Krugmar desert, and seeking the gate on the side of the mountain. The path should be well indicated. More details on the newly formed government have been clarified during the Klamor, which took place last Kaktuz Week, on the Snow’s Maiden [Wednesday 21/08]. Indeed, the first matter announced was the promotion of the Krimpgoth Tiderippa’Raguk, who was appointed Dominus. For the Yazgurtan, who is in charge of housing and city administration, two candidates stepped forth; Veluc, and myself, Gharak’Yar. The Rexkhan later decided to appoint both as Yazgurtan, with different districts of Lurkhan to overlook. Clan Raguk was officially acknowledged by the Rexkhanate, following Lur. Clan Lak was also given recognition, on the condition that they slay a Throqual which has been pestering some orcish construction sites over by the oasis. The Klamor has also been the occasion for multiple declarations of international importance. Mainly, the Lurak Rexkhanate has been joined by the Grand Princedom of Caurost to form the Khanate [empire], led by the Rexkhan and the Prince Galahad Nullivari. The Khanate thus formed immediately signed a treaty with the Margravate of Beleth, offering them land in exchange for a full military alliance. To conclude the Klamor, a visit was paid to the keep of The Hand of Horen in Whitespire. Unfortunately, no human or canonist was there to welcome the delegation, but orcish diplomats made sure to leave a clear message regarding the Khanate’s intentions towards Aaunic nations. An illustration of the Orcish diplomatic delegation, with Rexkahn Daahd’Lur in the center, sitting on a fancy chair. FOREIGN AFFAIRS The Orc who leads Lurin Krugmar is no longer the sole land of the orcs. Following reforms that removed the status of Whitewash, which condemned any orc which did not live in Krug’s chosen land, many orcs have spread to foreign lands. One of such orcs is Gundanat’Vukh, who has settled in the multicultural city of Lurin. Following political turmoil, Gundanat has become the Silver Lubba, or in other words the Rex of Lurin. He was kind enough to share his views on the orcish subculture that has emerged from the orcish diaspora in Lurin. Is Lurin good for orcs? It has mixed populations, yes? Is it not filled with weaklings? “It is hozh [good] for orcs, everyone treats me as one of them, as there is a mixed population. The Vukhs [clan members] and some Raguks lives here, aswell as lots of clanless orcs who came after I took over.” Are orcs and lesser races treated the same then? What is your position on Krugs legacy? “Yes, they are treated the same. Just I happen to be their Rex now.” Would you say living among lessers, who do not have orcish ways, made you deviate from the ways of Krug? For instance, are conflicts in Lurin solved through honor Klomps [fights]? “Conflicts are solved with klomps most of the time. Some are not, but most are.” – “Other cultures are not so different from us. Duels have always been used as a trial of honour across all cultures.” he illustrated. Is there anything you would like to add? “The new Lurak and ourselves are not that different anymore, Lurak has even embraced elves.” —it is indeed true that a Ker district has been set up in Lurkhan, though I would not go as far as to say that elves and orcs are treated on an equal footing in Lurak. ORCISH CULTURE The World Cactus will Return A long-awaited announcement was also made during the Klamor (see above): it was finally decided that the Shaman Lodge, led by Motsham Madoc’Lur would erect the World Cactus amidst the ruins of the old capital. The Lodge set to motion to scout out a suitable location, and it was decided that its seed would be planted in the centre of the old city, right where the campfire –and altar to Skathach– used to burn. It indeed seems fitting that the heart of our community would be turned into another great monument to orcish greatness. Indeed, growing a world cactus is no easy task, and all shamans of the Lodge are to take part in the rituals required to ensure that it grows healthy and tall. But this will also be an opportunity to resume Krugmar’s production of highly refined Cactus Green, including the notorious Rex Willow, which I have run out of way too long ago. An illustration of what the World Cactus may look like amidst the ruins of Orcgrimmar PEEP DIZ! Attempted Murder in Caurost It is by pure fortune that I was made witness of an attempted murder in Caurost. The new elven city seems to be lacking a few guards, leading to the following events on the Sun’s Smile [Sunday]. Entering the city, I saw an elven woman, and, behind her, a short masked man creeping up with a sabre. Knowing nothing of the situation, I took it upon myself to stop this dishonourable sneak attack, which was indeed a strange case of murder attempt. Though the suspect has managed to escape with the help of an accomplice, the elven woman suspects they may return to Caurost, so caution is advised. She has said that the two, which she did not know, had attempted to seduce her to no avail. This may therefore be a simple case of stupidity and frustration. Nonetheless, I invite any orc —or non-orc who values honor— to show how the Khanate views this kind of behaviour. The first suspect, a human male, was wearing a white mask —as illustrated— but his black hair remained visible. He was short (at around 5 feet and a half) wearing blue overall over green clothes. His skin was of an orange-ish tone, with his left arm being metallic. The accomplice, also a human male, was even shorter, perhaps close to 5 feet. His face was uncovered, as you can see in the illustration above. It should be noted that he was wearing some uniform —which I have not been able to identify— with black chainmail and crimson cloth. Though the two have left on a white horse screaming that they sent “Regards from Haense”, it is suspected that this is only a framing attempt. It is encouraged that you do not engage with those individuals unless you plan on fighting them. Otherwise, you are invited to transfer any information you have to the Kaktuz Weekli or the Caurost authorities. Informant/Writer — Spuds @Turbo_Dog Writer — Gharak’Yar @Gomoore Illustrator & Head publisher — Gharak’Yar
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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!
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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’Azh (XI) — Azh’Kint’H’ty’H’Dub (CLVII) D.A. ORC POLITICS Klamor for a New Government A new Rex rose on the Throne. After challenging Grubnahk to a klomp [traditional fight] and winning the duel, a young orc took the previous Rex’s last breath— and with it the throne of the Iron Horde. Krugmar is now ruled by Grommash, and with the new leader many familiar faces came back to San’Brîu. The city has been bustling with life, and to ensure that he had the orcish population’s full support, Grommash immediately summoned a Klamor [public assembly]. The Klamor started with a short speech from the leader: “Today, I speak to the horde, to tell its future, and hear the mind of the people. I have a dream. I dreamt many nights of a strong horde, with great shamans and good orcs. But the horde is not the work of one orc; it belongs to each of us.” He then called forth contenders for the duties of Dominus, Targoth, Motsham. After two great klomps, where Kho’Gorkil won against Grothzark’Dom, and Grimruk’Lur defeated Himdokh, the new Orc Government was settled. The new Orcish Government (from left to right): the Rex, his right hand, the military leader and the spiritual guide Vassals were asked to reaffirm their allegiances, which they did; the Duchy of Redclyf-Rozania, Sulianpoli and the Alurians vowed to provide warriors and minae for the Horde’s protection. Two more matters were discussed; first on what to do in regards to Zkorkon’Ugluk the Inferi. While orcs never allow demons to roam their lands, Zkorkon has shown efforts to reform. The possibility that Shamanism might let us cure him also justified keeping him alive. The Rex spoke, and it was decided that until more research be conducted, Zkorkon would not be hunted down. Next, the right to klomp the Rex was discussed. It is indeed what has caused the Iron Horde to fall prey to Grubnakh’s inexperienced hands in recent history. So, after careful weighing of pros and cons, the following was decided. No vote would be held, but only those who hold a position of authority in the Orcish Government shall claim the Rex’s Throne. Positions of authority are the Dominus, the Targoth, and the Wargoths [leaders] of acknowledged clans —that is to say, a clan with at least 3 members present at Klamors. As a conclusion, Grommash announced that a great project would be started; with the help of the Ruka [artisans and builders], a new orcish capital will rise! San’Brîu will be demolished to make room for Orcgrimmar! FOREIGN AFFAIRS War on Aevos The human Kingdoms have seldom been so divided. Accusations of sin and heresy, murder and regicide, treason and murder have been thrown over and over again during the last cactus week. Though very entertaining, this mangled web of denunciations and the sheer number of parties involved has made seeking facts and true causes of the war difficult. The unrest between human nations and cities is not new; tensions rose each time a new alliance was created, threatening those outside it, tensions rose too when one city became vassal to a nation, changing once more its allegiance. As often, many people were surely waiting for an opportunity to turn the bickering into a full war. The opportunity came on the Sun’s Smile last cactus week; multiple leaders met to find an agreement that would satisfy all and maintain peace. This is when Frederick Aurelian, ruler of Stassion, decided to murder Aaun’s King Heinrich II Lothar, under whom he was a vassal. The cause for this act remains unclear. Frederick Aurelian did leave a letter to take full blame —even rejoicing— of this successful regicide and claim that he did a great service to the kingdom of Aaun; but this letter might be full of lies to protect his children and the people of Stassion he left behind in his run. But a king does not die without a bloodbath, and indeed many knights of Stassion were killed when other vassals of Aaun arrived and learned of the betrayal. Only one nation joined Stassion; many in Veletz saw the assassination as a welcome revenge, for they did not see Aaun’s alliances with their enemy Balian as a good omen. The League of Veletz also had religious quarrels with the rest of the canonist world as many in Veletz have been excommunicated from the Church of Canon —to which they responded… by burning a church. Both sides called upon their allies. Haense formed the Covenant of Five, uniting Haense, Balian, Petra, Urguan and Hyspia and vowed to destroy Veletz. The Leage of Veletz called upon Stassion, Celia’nor and Krugmar to join them, and both sides have been getting ready for a large assault, sometime in the next cactus days. The Covenant of Five (from left to right), leaders of: Haense, Balian, Hyspia, Petra and Urguan. The portraits of Aleksandr II and Adrian may be inaccurate; they were done by goblin trainees ORCISH CULTURE On the Motsham The horde has a new Motsham… but what is a Motsham? Madoc’Lur was kind enough to give us an interview, so he may explain his role to those unfamiliar with Spiritualism and Shamanic Culture. How would you describe the Motsham to non-spiritualists? “The Motzham is the spiritual leader of the shamans. In human terms, it might be like the shaman pontiff. But the Motsham's main duty is to ensure that the will of the spirits is followed and that the shamans aren’t corrupted by buurz.” —That is to say, darkness, or sin. During the Klamor, you have advocated for Skorkon the Inferi to be kept among us. Is he not buurz himself? “Yes, but Buurz can be cured with enough research. Shamanism can already cure vampires and voidal mages by visiting the realm of Scorthuz or receiving his blessing. However, certain areas have not been researched enough. I am a strong believer that with enough dedication we will be able to cure even the more severely afflicted like Skorkon.” “Orcs, honoraries, vassals of the Iron Horde as well as Shamans that belong to the Lodge —the Shamanic institute he has vowed to create— will be offered a cure and one chance to repent and correct their ways. If they refuse, then they will be killed. The shamans who are not part of the Lodge will not receive such second chances.” What will you, personally, do as the Motsham, beyond regular Motsham duties? “The main thing is that all buurs will be purged on sight. Simple as that. Should a shaman ever be turned against the spirits and become buurs or openily associate with buurs, they will be trialed and executed. Then there will also be regular darkspawn tests before every large shaman meetings to weed out the darkspawn snakes.” He also talked of his plans; “I am also overseeing the construction of the Lodge. But first, the shaman codes will be written to serve as a guiding principle for all lodge shamans. My goal will also be to make shamanism great again, because the previous Motshams either failed their duties by serving only their interests or were openly associating with buurz.” What are the relations between the Motsham and the Rex, with the political powers? “The Motsham should be in charge of spiritualism and the education of non believers in such. There is really no link with politics, since those are two different fields and as a former Dominus, I do not intend to get into politics again. It’s really a pain in the ass!” It is true that Motshams hold no power beyond that on guidance of the Shamans, but it should be noted that they often —and this has been the case during last Klamor— serve as an advisory to the Rex, a moral compass for fair and wise decisions. ON THE KAKTUZ The Kaktuz Weekli would like to welcome the National Elven News Association to Aevos! It is always great to see others go through the effort of gathering unseen information, hidden truths and bring them to the people. We will be reading your publications with great interest. The Kaktuz is also looking for fixers; people (ideally from outside of Krugmar) who will keep an eye on local news and inform of important events, or help investigations either by bringing their own stories, or by pointing to the right people for trustworthy information. Please get in touch with Gharak for these matters. We will also reinstate the subscription system that Kor’Garr had put in place. So, if you wish to have the Kaktuz Delivered right to your doorstep, please contact us. Thank you for reading! Yargoth Gharak
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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 (X) — Azh’Kint’H’ty’H’ (CLV) D.A. ORC POLITICS A Great Party in Krugmar! After last cactus week’s Klamor, as nobody claimed Rex Grubnakh’Lak’s seat as their own, the new Ologarchy of the Iron Horde seems to be firmly in place. The Vassals have accepted the new leadership, and orcish delegations went to lesser cities to demand tribute, which they have received after threatening them of War. Mog’Mog, an Olog and long-time scribe for Grubnakh’Lak, has initiated diplomatic relations with Urguan. He invited the leader of the dwarves of Urguan, Grand King Garedyn, on The Deep Cold [tuesday] to discuss an alliance with the Iron Horde. The dwarven king came with gifts of metal to Mog’Mog, and after a short conversation, they agreed to have at least a defensive alliance. Mog’Mog, however, advocated for a “Full Military Alliance” which he says Rex Grubnakh calls for, in order to “make a statement of true unity between Urguan and the Iron Horde”. To those unfamiliar with ologs, it should be pointed out again that this behavior is not normal. Grubnakh and Mog are, as far as our records go, the first and only ologs to seemingly easily read, write, and even carry out strategic operations. This Iron Alliance —between Urguan and the Iron Horde— also raises the question of Urguan’s diplomatic relations, as they are already allied with Haense and Hyspia, and have a non-aggression pact with Nor’Asath. Though Mog’Mog admitted that not much could be done against the Iron Horde’s bloodlustful nature, he has accepted that further discussion be held regarding the raids which often target those nations. Because “military alliances need to be approved by the moot” under dwarven laws, Grand King Garedyn has vowed to “hold a meeting to discuss the full alliance” with the King’s Court on the Grand Harvest [sunday]. At the time of publication, this should be next cactus day. To ensure good diplomatic relations between orcs and dwarves, Mog’Mog has offered the following; to organize a big party in San’Brîu, right before the King’s Court. And so the preparations began, and all of Urguan, as well as anyone who wishes to see how Orcs party are invited! There will be lots of “beer, yes, and the strong stuff!” Mog’Mog proudly announced. One should also expect cactus green and all the fine drugs that Krugmar produces! FOREIGN AFFAIRS A New Pontiff for the Canonist Church The Pontiff Sixtus the fifth passed away about two cactus months ago, and the Canonist Church has had no replacement so far. But after careful deliberation, it seems the College of Cardinals —those who elect the Pontiff— have come to a decision and elected one of them, Father Arnaud as their new Pontiff. And so, Father Arnaud, born Arnaud Constantine Novellen, who is currently Archbishop of Albarosa, will soon be Pontiff, with a new name which currently remains undisclosed. The pontifical Coronation will be held this cactus day [Friday 17 Nov.] in the Temple of the Exalted Prophets of the Canon in Aaun. Father Arnaud has been kind enough to take the time to answer a few questions for the Kaktuz Weekli. Could you describe to our readers what the role of the Pontiff is? What duties do you have towards Canonists, and non-Canonists? “The Pontiff, —also known as High Pontiff— is the leader of our religion. You could say I will be the leader of our organization of priests. But the Pontiff is also the Vicar of God. It means I will represent God once I am officiated in my role.” — “To canonists it is essentially the personification of our faith and religion, and to non-canonists…” he paused. “I suppose one could say my duty is to try to convert them… or otherwise guide them morally.” What are your aspirations as the soon-to-be Pontiff? Do you wish to reform the Canonist Church, and in which ways? “I hope to be a unifying figure for the various canonist realms, as they has been trouble brewing and not every nation has been particularly happy with the Church’s diplomacy in recent years. I also wish to finish some of the projects that my predecessor started, like reforming our religious laws and the way the Church is run.” “I also wish to start great construction works to relocate the Holy See” —the capital of Canonism— “Currently, it is inadequate; it is small, not very providing… Founding a church state is not out of the question either.” What are your thoughts on Pontiff Sixtus V’s legacy? As you certainly know, he had vowed to improve the clergy’s teachings, and to spread the Canonist faith. And for a more personal question, what would you say are your dreams? “I believe that my predecessor, Sixtus the fifth, was a good Pontiff for the time he was around. Sadly, due to health issues, he was absent for most of his pontificate. But I share one of those dreams with him: I want to strengthen people’s faith.” “As a priest, people currently call me Father, and as High Pontiff I will be the Father of all of the Canonist world. As a father I will be kind and compassionate with my children, because I want to see them grow. But to help his children grow a father must also be strict sometimes. I’ve decided I am sick of part time believers, the kind that are devoted when they are in a church or with a priest, but who turn their back on God and do bad things when they think God can’t see them.” After a moment, he concluded; “My dream is to bring canonists from all nations together as one big family and to reinvigorate our church. For too long we have been stagnant, absent, withdrawn from the world and uninspiring. I want to be a Pontiff of action. I think a lot of our more devoted followers are quite ready for some action.” ORCISH CULTURE Greater Spirits: Meet Freygoth! Orcs are Spiritualists; this means we worship the spirits which inhabit, or represent various aspects of the material plane. An orc who has displayed exceptional virtue, or quality and dedication to an art can also become a spirit. Those ancestors who keep inspiring us become ancestral spirits and receive worship from those who wish to pursue their art. The spirits are of various types; those who represent elements are known as Greater Elemental Spirits, those who ascended —as described above— are Ancestral Spirits. Then, Greater and Lesser Immortal Spirits govern concepts or emotions. Today, we will focus on one of the Greater Immortal Spirits: Freygoth! Freygoth is the spirit of the Wild, Nature and Animals. She is often depicted as a caring nature with a motherly face. She is a Greater Immortal— meaning she has Lesser Immortals who serve her, much like Vassals to a Nation. Laklul, the spirit of swamps, is certainly the most widely known Lesser Immortal under Freygoth. However, worshippers of Laklul often despise Freygoth; they say that Laklul should be a Greater Immortal, and that Freygoth holds Laklul prisoner in the Lesser status. Worshippers of Freygoth value life and nature; unlike many spirits, sacrifices to Freygoth would certainly yield nothing but her rage. A more sensible approach is to dedicate ponds or parks to her name, restore or foster nature around her shrines, and, generally, caring for creatures around oneself.
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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 H’Futh (IX) — Azh’Kint’H’ty’Futh (CLIV) D.A. INVESTIGATION: DESERT SHENANIGANS Meeting a new Civilisation Near the orcish lands of Krugmar, explorers from the horde have made a surprising discovery; an unmet civilization was hiding in the sands. Obok Metaldrinks, who has been part of most exploration parties, and dealing with these people for some time, arranged an opportunity for me to meet and discuss with them. And so I was led into a network of caves under a mountain, and there I was warmly greeted by the warriors of Hakesh and the Aeternum Automatons. Indeed, the civilization is of two races; the Hakeshites are human descendents while the automatons are centuries-old mechanical constructs. The Hakeshites came from the same lands as us, but after the various migrations, they found themselves separated from the bulk. From what I could recollect from the warden Ilakeer, they discovered Aevos shortly after leaving Arcas. For those unfamiliar with our history, we —the descendants— have gone through several great migrations due to cataclysmic events; the latest one had us flee from Almaris to Aevos after an invasion. But before settling on Almaris, our elders lived on Arcas. The migration from Arcas marked the beginning of the Second Age. As I discussed with the Elder Automaton, I was told they were created by an Elven inventor. They had, at first, nothing to do with the Hakeshite humans, only they joined these people to help them: for this is what the automatons have been designed to do. And so their cohabitation began, though it quickly devolved into an aggressive one. Cultural misunderstandings, unprompted and excessive help from the automatons and diverging positions among the Hakeshites created divides so harsh they led to massacres and the Elven Creator's death, after which many humans and automatons left to settle elsewhere.massacres Though they had lost nearly half their population, the remaining Hakeshites found this satisfactory —at first. Soon enough they would learn of what the others had been up to: in their attempt to create more automatons they had tainted their hands with the darkest magics, trying to brew up life to serve them, capturing and enslaving souls. The automatons who had accompanied the sinful humans would later be known as the Kinslayers, for obvious reasons. When they met with the Aeternum Automatons, they only saw them as an opportunity to gather more slaves; and terrible fights ensued. Although most of their forces have been dealt with, 3-CK —another lovely automaton— told me some Kinslayers remain, and they roam the nearby seas with a fleet of armed ships. Any help to defeat them would be greatly appreciated. If you wish to learn more, I can only recommend you meet them too. Soon, books will be published, retelling their long and windy history. [contact Daengie for more] ORC POLITICS An Olog becomes Rex Continuing on last cactus week's events, where concerns about the respect of our traditions, harsh treatment towards vassals, and distrust in the Rex Kybal'Akaal and his clan caused instability and threats of rebellion in Krugmar. Somehow, it seems bloodshed was avoided. The then-Rex Kybal'Akaal addressed the Iron Horde on the 7th of the first seed. He accused the rebels of being a foreign force, orcish only by their representatives. He also reminded his people that he had not refused anyone a duel, but rather simply followed the laws implemented by his predecessor Al-Borok'Akaal. Still, Kybal acknowledged the power stacked against him; deeming that the rebels would be out to assassinate him if he were to participate in —and win— a duel, he decided to exile himself from orcish lands. In his final statement, he appointed Grubnakh'Lak as new Rex of the Iron Horde. Rex Grubnakh'Lak immediately took the position, and vowed to forge a renewed great era of war. He started with an open hand for reconciliation and unity; washed all who had served the previous Rex of grudge, and called for vassals to reaffirm their allegiance to the Horde. It should be noted that this is an exceptional event, for Rex Grubnakh is an olog. Ologs —for unfamiliar readers— are one of the tree subraces of Orcs; goblins, uruks, and ologs. They are taller, stronger, and dumber than uruks, even more so for goblins. Though they are not explicitly deprived of their right to claim the Rex position, their limited, often child-like intellect and associated absence of ability —or will— to govern has kept them away from leading Krugmar up until now. Zkorkon'Ugluk seemed satisfied with the turn of events. "He will make a good Rex" he said, and though he might challenge him later, for now "it is far more interesting to lay witness [to the start of] the Ologarchy". This position seems to reflect a large part of the Horde, which welcomed change with open hands. Surely we will learn more at the next Klamor. It will be held cactomorrow. ORCISH CULTURE Cooking: Skalezid Krispy Kookiez Oh, how refined the Orcs are! One might not know how diverse their cooking is, and what great tasteful dishes they can make from the gifts of the desert. But this shall change today. See for yourself! Today's recipe: Scalecid Crispy Cookies! Ingredients: 1 scalecid, preferably young and freshly harvested 6 eggs (optional) Preparation: Prepare a cauldron and put some water to boil. Skin the scalecid and keep the meat separately. Chop the hide and bones into pieces. This process can be tedious, especially if the scalecid is not fresh or too mature. If that is the case, you can use a mortar and sledgehammer to grind the thick hide down to pieces. Once the bone hide is reduced to the size of pebbles, chuck it in the water, and place a lid on the cauldron. While the scalecid bones soften, tenderize the meat down to a paste. You may add eggs at this step; if you chose to do so, wash the egg shells and add them to the boiling pot. Form cookie shapes from this meat dough. The cookies can be left to dry, or —if you are trying the eggless recipe— slightly grilled in an oven. After a day, you will have a broth with delicious scalecid chips. Sift them out, and sprinkle them on the cookies. That's it! You can now enjoy delicious scalecid crispy cookies! It has come to my attention that in last issue, Rex Grubnakh was described as part of plan Ugluk. My apologies for this mistake; Rex Grubnakh is part of clan Lak. For any requests, remarks or information, please contact Gharak'Yar or leave a letter at the Kaktuz Weekli offices at the Library of Barbog, San’Brîu Krugmar. Yours ,Gharak
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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 H’Gahk (VIII) — Azh’Kint’H’ty’Gakh (CLIII) D.A. ORC POLITICS Rebellion against Clan Akaal Krugmar has recently been torn by a political and military crisis, the outcome of which remains uncertain as part of the population formed rebellious forces which threaten to lead a coup. Let’s look at the events that lead to this turmoil. There has been social unrest in Krugmar for a while; several cactus weeks at least, if there was ever a time of complete stability. Scattered voices have expressed concerns about the orcish society drifting away from its core culture, away from the path of Spirit and Krug’s ways. It is undeniable; Krugmar has opened to other cultures, and adopted some codes. One such example is the ashtkaar system implemented in Klamors, where clan leaders and members of the government hold a vote for important decisions. As a response to this ever growing feeling of disconnect with Krug’s values, some have attempted to restore a form of orcish purity and tradition. Two cactus weeks ago, Grimruk’Lur, claimed the position of Krimpgoth through a glorious duel. This position allowed him to revoke the honorary title awarded to non-orcs who embrace our ways. All honoraries were stripped of their title —except for a select few— and required, if they wished to regain it, to go through the honorary trials once more. This has unsurprisingly triggered a wave of anger from many previously-honoraries, in particular from the Bronze Band: a clan of elven honoraries, vassal under Krugmar. Distrust against the ruling orcs grew with several accusations against Clan Akaal. Drus, a former member of the Akaal Clan, has denounced shamanistic and spiritual practices within the clan which some believe to be buurz; that is to say sinful and breaching of strong orcish taboos. Though members of the Akaal Clan have either denied practice of these rituals —An old rex could have said, “LIES AND SLANDER”—, or dismissed accusations as misunderstandings of legitimate traditions, there is no denying that this has further divided the orcish community. The last nail to the coffin was probably the aforementioned ruling on Ashktaar— which now states that one may not klomp (fight) for the title of Rex unless half of the clan leaders deem the pretending orc worthy to inherit the title. While democratic systems are not incompatible with traditional Orcish ways, the Klomp for Rex has always been seen as a fundamental guardrail to ensure no tyrant hoards power, and the old orcish proverb “Might Makes Right” still resonates with many. To address these, a Klamor —deliberative congress— was held last cactus week, but it failed to appease tensions, and has in fact exacerbated divisions. Two people demanded to klomp the Rex Kybal’Akaal for his title; Bullgoth Skorkon’Ugluk (previously known as the Brazen Bull) and Grubnakh, an olog also from clan Ugluk. The clan leaders voted, as is the law, and the two were denied their duels. This sparked a fight, which degenerated into an attempted coup. It is unclear whether it was premeditated, as it might have spontaneously erupted, but it failed either way, only resulting in a minor fight. The Rebelling forces quickly escaped, and are yet to make another move. The Rebels are roughly composed of an alliance of Clan Ugluk, led by Skorkon and Grubnakh, the Bronze Band, various human and previously-honorary vassals of the horde, as well as some individual Orcs who took it as an opportunity to rid Krugmar of the corruption they see in Clan Akaal. Ironically, Grimruk’Lur is one of them, and is now siding with humans and elves which he declared lessers mere cactus weeks ago. However, he has not been secretive about his plans to leave this alliance as soon as it does not serve his agenda. FOREIGN AFFAIRS A Cure for Degeneracy? Tensions rose recently around bathhouses. Although these traditional establishments have been central to many cultures, there seems to have been numerous cases of misconduct within them. This behavior has been denounced in a statement by orkish chieftain Grimruk’Lur, who has declared war on what he calls degeneracy; bathhouse parties where “acts that should not be spoken of” are allegedly encouraged. The Canonist Church has also been said to denounce the impure nature of bathhouses that teem with scandalous incentives, though after discussing with a paladin, I could not find evidence of such a stance. Either way, there seems to be an outrage towards these establishments; “Anything bathhouse related, I’m going to make sure it caves in!” I was told in another conversation. In an attempt to maintain hygiene while satisfying everyone, King Cyris has proposed a great innovation; the construction of a water park by the beaches of the halfling city of Dunfarthing. The King has big plans; “It’s gonna have slides, a pool, a lazy river, turtles — Giant turtles!” he said, before adding that the park will also feature a “helter skelter”: a tower supporting a spiralling water slide. Though there is currently no fixed date for the grand opening —it is still in design phase—, the king of the Halflings has promised that the park will be a place “for everyone to enjoy water-filled fun […] so long as they do not cause trouble or worship Iblees or, even worse, Arugula.” He also vowed to make the water park completely free; “charging for entry would be choosing to make people smell!” he simply explained. ON THE KAKTUZ WEEKLI Returning with a New Journalist Ug dere! I am Gharak’Yar, a scholar in orcish social studies and philosophy, and disciple of Kor’Garr! With the founder of the Kaktuz Weekli retiring, I have been honoured to inherit this treasure of orcish culture, and I hope I will live up to the expectations of its readers! And so after several cactus months of absence, the cactus weekly returns! I hope to pursue Kor’Garr’s goals of bringing clear, diverse and fresh information to the public of Krugmar and the whole continent of Aevos! I hope to publish The Kaktuz Weekli… every cactus week, so keep your eyes peeled! Though they will not be featured every week, I also plan on bringing back all your favourite sections; Orcish Culture, Cooking, Orc of the week, and more! Next week: an in-depth investigation on Desert Shenanigans. Feel free to send me a bird to request investigation on specific topics! You can also leave a letter in the Kaktuz Weekli Headquarters in the Library of Barbog, San’Brîu, Krugmar. Ideas and help are always welcome and appreciated! Peep latz! –Gharak
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【♢ -♢- ♢】 Bundles of newspapers would be spread throughout Aevos for all to see. Written cleanly and vividly upon dense sheets of high quality cane parchment, the pages of blocky script would also be covered in scribbled cute doodles! Including the wonderful BRAND! The floral berry aroma of desert oasis inks wafts pleasantly from each heavy page. This must be... 【♢ -♢- ♢】 Issue H’Dub (VII) - Azh’Kint’Gakhty’Gakh (CXXXIII) D.A. CURRENT EVENTS Horde Affairs: The First Klamor of Aevos! World Affairs: Settling down in new lands Orc Kulture Spiritualism - A War of Spirits and Gluttony Concerning Orcish Bloodlust MISCILLANEOUS BOUNTIES A Reminder of Employment with the Kaktuz Weekli Kor’garr is glad to announce with the return of publications that we are HIRING! Artists, Editors, Writers agh Formatters are all welcome to seek employment at our office within the Library of Barbog in San’Briu. Kaktuz Weekli Q&A - Returning next Issue! Messages or in person correspondence for the staff of the Kaktuz Weekli will be answered here! Staff Kor’garr - Owner agh Skriptgoth [[[OOC BELOW!]]]
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【♢ -♢- ♢】 Bundles of newspapers would be spread throughout Almaris for all to see. While written vividly upon dense sheets of... mediocre parchment? Anyways, pages of blocky script seem less formatted and many illustrations are absent! The floral berry smell of jungle inks wafts pleasantly from each heavy page. This must be... 【♢ -♢- ♢】 THE KAKTUZ WEEKLI Issue H'azh (VI), 226 S.A. [[ Due to Waghtik Damages agh Complications the Kaktuz Weekli is experiencing delays. Zoggyng Mori bug worshippers. Sieges make it difficult to spend time writing articles!]] ORCISH AFFAIRS - The Clan Moot: A New Iron Horde! Kor’garr is delighted to announce that the Iron Horde has entered a new era, that of a Confederacy of the clans with our Rex Ar-Borok’Akaal acting as tiebreaker rather than the Rexdom of years past! Now all honorable lineages of Krugs descendants have a voice in the path our nation will follow. As a brief explanation, government leaders are given Ashtkaar, blessed icons that show proof of their authority. The Rex and leaders of Clans use these Ashtkaar to show their approval and support for decisions, called Claims, presented to the Clan council during Klamors. Klamors are official gatherings of the clans announced with at least azh cactus day of notice. With more members of leadership in their ranks, a Clan has greater say in how the Iron Horde is run. The Rex, of course, is independent of the Clans and has III counts upon their Ashtkaar to prevent draws. Already the Clan Moot has added the Clans of Raguk, Yar, agh Ixtzul to our ranks of Recognized lineages in the Horde. Many changes and decisions have proceeded smoothly, agh Kor’garr is glad even the older elders like Murdok’Lak agh Madoc’Lur approve of this new type of leadership. As Ar-Borok’Akaal wrote in the public declaration “A New Horde”: The Iron Horde is not a Rexdom like the Wagh Nation of ages past, and from now on our ancestors in the Stargush will watch their descendants speak freely for the sake of their Clans instead of a single ruler. ORC KULTURE - Grog agh Grub On the Krugmarian Delicacy of Fresh High Albai Krugmar culinary tradition states that Elven meat, specifically High Elven meat, is a delicacy, and for a number of reasons. First is due to the intense tenderness and supple softness compared to any other meat no matter the age or cooking method: the Elven blessing of immortality prevents repeated strain and stiffening other meats go through as a living being grows and matures. Much like Veal, except you can have the taste and size of a mature Twiggie while also keeping the tenderness. Similarly palatial diets and court lifestyles generally develop fruity undertones and healthier layers of fat compared to other descendants of Malin, which makes a wonderful choice for sweeter cuts and recipes akin to bacon or pork belly. This sort of Umami is very rare to the harshly spiced and generally savory orcish diet, hence the fascination with High Elven ingredients in dishes! The other main reason is simple: history and supply. High Albai live mojo infused lifestyles and thus have richer mojo reserves than most others, another secret to their wonderful taste and a frequent temptation towards Burz-mojo Void usage. As orcs are obligated to purge such practices for the Spirits, High elves and Krug's kind have fought frequently… meaning the opportunity to partake in such exquisite meals remains consistent to this day. So what dishes are commonly made with High Albai, lat might ask Kor'garr? Everything from the Raw Orcish Delight mentioned in previous articles to choice cuts of perfectly seared Highsteak (soft and wonderfully marbled)! Twikkon is a common dawnlit snack on expeditions or in the blarg, being thin strips cooked with oil over an open flame… Quite similar to the Zhara's pork bacon. And of course there are the famous Mysteri Stew amd Kruga Kola, the dubt being said Stew aged for ag decade with cinnamon and vanilla to produce a sizzling, sparkly beverage enjoyed around Almaris. Most if not all of these recipes are available from the Betharuz Tavern, and fresh ingredients can be sold to the Horde for a hefty sum! ORC KULTURE - Olog of the Week This week Kor'garr is proud to present to lat ag special interview… Azh with a legend, the Olog known as Drekur'Ungri! We covered an old story of his that few remember but all deserve to hear again. Also, Drekur is the pinnacle of his kind in age, size, agh intelligence. Most Ologs would be… Nub'hozh conversation partners. This particular meeting starts with the Olog introducing himself. Please note this is translated to Common with grammar added for ease of reading. DREKUR: “[Mi] is Aengul slayer, first son of the Maw! Uniter of the Ologs! Lat have questions to say to me?” Kor’garr: “Kor’garr always has questions… How did lat slay an Aengul anyways? Punch it really hard?” DREKUR, after laughing: “Aengul slayer will tell lat tale! It all started in War on Arcas! Orcs! Humans! Dwarves! Agh elves! United against the Inferi! Inferi came from a portal on the desert of Al-faiz! Many many demons! More than even a Horde of Ologs could Klomp at once! Quickly the Inferi hordes came, took city of Farfolk like it was nothing! Desert fell quickly to Inferi!” Kor’garr: “More than the Great Wagh? Excellent time for fighting then.” DREKUR: “Larger than even the Horde could Wagh! They warred and warred, until even the city of wood elves fell! They reached the mainland then.” *The Olog takes a massive drink of Grog here. “Around this time, children of Brev arrived! Told mi, Drekur’Ungri, and the goblin Murdok’Lak of a great Titan Spear of their father Brev! Weapon able to make gods mortal.” Kor’garr: “Yub, always wondered what that looked like… Lat remember it still?” DREKUR: “BAH! Nothing was special when we found it! Just very big! Soon, Orcs fought all over the Al-Faiz desert! Mi and the Ungri Clan were bulwark of the army! Slaughtered many Inferi agh soon faced the Aengul, Gazadriel!” Kor’garr: “The greatest of fights… Enrohk [the spirit of War and Bloodlust] would be proud.” DREKUR: “Ungri did not even worship the Maw back then… Foolishness, yub! But doesn’t matter! When Gazadriel was in range! Murdok’Lak agh Drekur’Ungri shot the Spear of Brev into Gazadriel, making the angel mortal, and fatally wounding it! Kor’garr: “Shot it? As in, using a longbow?” DREKUR: “Ballista, yub! Flatted the Aengul really hozh! Making mi agh Murdok’Lak aengul slayers!” Kor’garr: “Thank lat for the wonderful history, friend. Lat is definitely Olog of the Week.” End of Article Miscellaneous BOUNTIES OPEN Kor’garr presents to lat the Bounty section, a place where lat can bird the Kaktuz Weekli with information on people agh beasts lat want vlat… or alive. If deemed worthy, The Iron Horde or Kaktuz Weekli might decide to match a bounty price in up to 300 minas! Nub worry, Anonymity is accepted for those sending in bounties as well as those who bring in the offending ‘owtlaws’. Heads are generally preferred as proof of the request being completed. SUPPLIES WANTED Also, Kor’garr is peeping for Alkemists. The details are attached here. [!] The Missive is crudely attached... [!] FINAL NOTES As Lat Kan peep, The Kaktuz Weekli is hiring Artiztz agh Formatters! Nub experienze Needyd! STAFF
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【♢ -♢- ♢】 Bundles of newspapers would be spread throughout Almaris for all to see. While written cleanly and vividly upon dense sheets of high quality parchment, the pages of blocky script would also be covered in scribbled cute doodles! Including the wonderful BRAND! The floral berry smell of jungle inks wafts pleasantly from each heavy page. This must be... 【♢ -♢- ♢】 Vol. H' (V) Year Azh’Kint’Dubty’Azh (CXXIII) (223) Second Age ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ AUTHOR'S NOTE: The Kaktuz Weekli must inform our audience that these articles are relatively dated. An addendum piece (V.II) shall be released shortly with updates considering recent major events such as the Dawnhold Defense. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Everyone has heard of the new threat upon the western lands. Even now there are honorable people of Wagh preparing to defend the Wood Albai from this new terror. And yet some of the details were missed. So let Kor’garr explain the Horde’s encounter with this new foe azhthand, since I was there myself. It began with a rally of the Krug-Hai in San’Velku by the Rex, for we accepted a plea from Amaethea to investigate the caverns below. Lanterns, ropes, arrows, medical kits… an expedition force of nearly dubty (20) attended to purge the caves of influence from the Mori, accursed spider worshippers. Almost immediately we were given ill omens alongside blessings. A chunk of strange starmetal was obtained through Kor’garr’s hand and those of Obok Metaldrinkz with Alviss of Nor'Asath, yet a strange and billowing heat consistently rose from the depths… It was an ambush of cowardice, fake walls agh traps revealing swarms of bile spewing arachnids and their Mori tamers. Smashing through caused some cave ins and injury to one of the brave Duhr brothers, resulting in a disconnect between vanguard and those trailing in support. Kor’garr, Alviss agh Ghoraza swiftly tore apart those flanking cave spiders, yet one honorary formerly named Luthriel was responsible for minor friendly fire. The vanguard recovered, the cave in was cleared, agh we moved on unaware of what lied ahead. Azh by Azh we descended, heat growing stronger and sweat dripping from Nuburuk faces with ferocity… Then suddenly a light was seen ahead. A rumble that shook surrounding stone, an orb of amber agh pride that filled the entirety of the tunnel around us… and a Voice. “WHAT MANNER OF CREATURE COMES TO BE DEVOURED?” Nub’uruks began to panic, agh the Dominus Madoc’Lur was resolute in warning our troops away from foolishness. The massive being spoke through ash and brimstone, of eternal hunger and a desire for ruin. The uruk cub known as Forgot, having called the being a Titan, quickly roused it’s ire. Others rambled with ill thought words, mistakenly insulting the draconic visage that could with a mere breath send all gathered to Kor’s embrace. And then… “BRING ME… THE INSULTING… INFANT TO FEAST…IF NOT, DEATH… UPON ALL.” Silence followed after the announcement, surely a solemn gravity would weigh upon most faced with this decision… Yet the Iron Horde was undeterred. Rex Ar-Borok agh Dominus Madoc’Lur called the Forgot forwards. “Rejoice forgotten kub. Cleansed by flames lat will be. The spirits watch upon lats death to come.” Calls of glory and sacrifice followed, offering praise to Forgot as he drew upon his spear and prepared to charge. As Mau’Kor, one who records the lives and deaths of those in the Stargush, Kor’garr will say this. Forgot did not walk meekly into the jaws of the beast. The young form of his red body, clad in armor, ran full sprint with savage pride in his eyes. We cheered for him, the one valiantly entering battle impossible to win in Honor and Sacrifice for his brethren. A roar of rage, challenge given to the mad beast, rang throughout the caverns above even past his being rent apart by massive fangs and a putrid grasping tongue. “FLAT WITH GLORY, FLAT WITH HONOR!” Praise to FORGOT, wayward cub of sacrifice, one blessed with the virtues of Dazkur in defense of others. May his soul enter the Gates of Kor to join the ancestors with pride. The horrid beast asked what we sought after the sacrifice, and wisely our Rex asked for information upon the Dragon’s goals. Ghoraza the Witless also spoke up in a strange tongue unknown to us, yet obviously of interest to it. The response was simple. Eternal sustenance and eternal praise. Luthriel once more nearly caused the death of allies, asking such a prideful being whether it would feast upon common cattle. Others bargained, as if this being was a mere shopkeeper with offers of deals, until it silenced us all with a single word. Thankfully the Rex and Dominus were able to divert the dragon’s attention away from such insults… only to be presented with the being’s offer: knowledge and wisdom to those that would provide meals of the Wood Albai above. This revelation of course caused yet more unease until the being lost patience with our silent refusal. It gave a command to raise banners in fealty, not bothering to accept an answer before with a single motion thousands of tons of rock and cavern were shorn through like butter! The beast was not freed, as it was never trapped in the first place. A simple decision to depart northwards was all it took for a small mountain’s worth of rubble to burst from beneath Amaethea. Rapidly, the party moved to leave the crumbling caverns, rumbles and tremors causing unstable footfalls. Only barely did we escape before the caves collapsed behind us all, still in shock over the titanic forms. Yet all was not resolved. VLOS flew overhead, three heads blahhyng in unison with a roar of his name as he departed north. The Rex advocated for meeting with Amaethea urgently to explain what had occurred after a regrouping in San’Velku to attend to the wounded, and thus most left with him. Kor’garr stayed behind for some discussion with the dwed on the metal found, when a complication arose. Luthriel had not departed with the Rex, and mere minutes passed before she arrived with The Third prince of Amaethea Kosher Daesmon to investigate the already collapsed caverns themselves. A small conversation was had before all members departed. And that was the end of the expedition, if not the political controversy to spread as a result… Less than a day later the gates of San’Velku were host to a raucous display of accusations against the Rex and the Iron Horde. The one known as En’Ara Iron’heartz had gone to Jarad Munnel and “reported” that our people were willingly allying with Vlos, bending the knee and publically pledging to sacrifice the entire Wood Albai city. These were of course falsehoods of the highest magnitude, yet this Prince believed the untested word of a random citizen who had been absent from Horde land for years to instead demand recompense and explanation over offenses we had not even done. Politics are boring, so Kor’garr will cut it short: it was a lot of arguing in Nor’Asath before tension was settled, and threats of Celia’nors “intervention” were brought up in an attempt to strongarm the Rex. If popularly demanded Kor’garr might release a detailed report next issue. Once again the Horde and Krug’s people were slandered. To those who would claim (again) that we have bent the knee to dark forces and wish to slaughter fellow descendants in obedience to this dragon: Your tongue is touched by Iblees with such lies agh lat accomplishes nubthing. An announcement was released by the Holy Inquisition, penned by one Ser Phillip “the Righteous” in which he says: “Krugmar was instrumental in unleashing this dragon, and that the Rex of the Iron Horde attempted to offer the dragon sacrifices shortly before it was unleashed… Furthermore, we condemn Rex Borok’s attempt to pacify such a violent and volatile creature through unsavory means, such as sacrifice, although this is consistent with his alleged previous behavior.” He then goes on to Blah of Canonism and insult the Rex more. Kor’garr waits to peep if such claims will be withdrawn after our singular victory defending the Dawnhold when others fled. The Crusaders are hozh protectors, agh there is no need for inward hostilities. To En’Ara Iron’heartz, Slanderer of the West; lat has been wytewashed by the Dominus Madoc’Lur with Skriptgoth Kor’garr as witness. The actions of deceit and false accusations show not only dishonor agh lack of loyalty, but the weakness of succumbing to fear instead of remaining strong. Your words tarnished the Horde agh caused a mess nearly resulting in needless Wagh between descendants: as such your name will be tarnished by those same words. To the honorary formerly known as Luthriel: while your actions were certainly suspect, nub proof of dishonor or slander has been shown. Kor’garr recommends taking more caution with coincidences in the future. The Rex made an announcement of his own to prepare for Wagh against the Dragon, reaffirming our pledges to the Atrus Covenant and against all burz beings that seek to harm the Innocent agh Honorable. The Kaktuz Weekli will release more articles as this situation develops. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Some cactus weeks ago The Commonwealth of Petra entered an age of civil unrest, as accusations towards both the Archduchess Renilde I agh Archduke Constanz divided the ruling family agh citizens of Petra. First of the accusations presented were towards Archduchess Renilde I, who had inherited the throne as the eldest kub of Archduke Paul Salvian. Both an unknown citizen of Petra agh her eldest son, Albert Salvian, accused her of betraying Petra agh of sleeping with the Prince of Haense outside of marriage. With the help of Haense, she apparently planned to rise against Petra, whatever that would have meant at the moment. Albert Salvian also informed Renilde I had left the nation. Despite all this, he still had hope for his mother, asking her to return agh repent for what she had done. In response Archduchess Renilde I released a statement regarding Archduke Constanz, who had gained his title agh responsibilities through a marriage with her. She accused him of exceeding his rights of command that they had set in their marriage, taking actions against the Canonist Church, neglecting the duties set out for him, attempting to erode Petra’s ways to cement himself as the sole ruler, agh of treason in attempting to usurp her. Most personal accusations were made towards his faithfulness in their marriage though, as it's believed he had had extramarital relationships with women during his travels to parts unknown, possibly even faltering kubs with azh or more of them. Based on these claims, Archduchess dismissed Archduke Constanz from the court and exiled him from the lands of Petra. To solve this conflict, the Knight Council called Renilde I to face these accusations in a trial. It was promised to her that no harm would come her way during it. Once it came time for the trial, this promise was kept. No harm came upon Renilde, but instead it came upon those who had come to witness the event. Ferrymen hired by Renilde entered Castle Moere, attacking those present. Some were taken as prisoners, while others, including children were killed. It was recorded that the ferrymen had Azdrazi fighting alongside them, burning people to crisp with their fiery breath. This goes to be more of my own opinion, but mi do have to note that the witness testimonies mi read are horrifying, agh as a reminder, this is coming from an orc who has seen wagh, flat agh decay. Mi would recommend reading the missive Elowyn of Petra wrote to her mother fully as it gives a way better view into those feelings than what mi can write, though here are some quotes from it. “I am a Canonist child, a child. I have seen bloodshed and I have seen corpses in front of me. Even corpses of people MY age. Ma, how can you stand with those people and leave me, leave your children, leave your legacy to perish at the hands of those mercenaries you hire.” “I heard the screams of my fellow community members… I never knew how awful death sounded like. The screams, I can never forget them Ma.” [!] A Copy of the full missive has been attached here as an extra page. [!] Few cactus days later, Renilde’s forces released a statement; there would be a proper battle between the two sides. In the same missive, the Sons of Petra were dissolved and a new army called The Petrine Regiment was to take its place. The battle between the two forces occurred near Valfleur and ended in the favor of Archduchess Renilde I. Following this civil wagh some houses have reaffirmed their loyalty to Renilde I, agh Commonwealth of Petra has withdrawn its signature from previously written demands towards the Canonist Church. [Written by Kretz’Ox] ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Every so often there comes an article where Kor’garr must put the Truth of journalistic integrity before telling the story which is convenient or even his personal opinions. This is one of those stories, the tale of an imperfect friend’s death. Agis Penweather was a complex being. A member of the Bronze Band of Sulianopoli, vassal of the Iron Horde and a fervent shaman of Scorthuz, the spirit of Purity. Over many years he had shown his faith in the spirits, having been gifted the opportunity of learning shamanism without partaking in the usual trials to become an Honorary of the Horde. This would lead to many issues later on. Unfortunately, the bronze albai was brash and fervent in his worship to the point of arrogance. Agiz regularly butted heads with more experienced shamans, including one Ar-Borok’Akaal, over different philosophies on how to interact with the spirits. Even when the Akaal ascended as Blood Rex, these tensions would continue and unfortunately given the lack of Honorary status he was seen to be overstepping as a lesser. The peak of this occurred when Agis cosigned a document called “To end the Burz Rex”, which accused Ar-Borok of burz-spawn affiliation, general tyrannical actions, and demanded his resignation as Rex within a single cactus day. Even as the following meeting turned out to resolve the feud between Rex and the former Motsham Al-Uk, Agis insisted upon justice. His arm was voluntarily broken and the Bronze albai passed out as some kind of penance for his actions. In the later weeks Agis would continue to loudly decry the Rex’s actions, comparing him to dark shamans of the past and proceeding to raise hostilities within Horde lands multiple times. Yet again, these accusations from one who was not even Honorary and did not step up in formal challenge or Honor Klomp were widely regarded as insults. This all would reach the breaking point upon repeated altercations with the hot-headed and volatile orc kub known as Forgot. After multiple occasions of near blows, Agis finally had enough. The bronze elf announced to both the cub and the Rex that he would depart from the Horde and teach others the ways of Scorthuz, then using his magic to defend himself from Forgot’s attack of bloodrage. Next time he entered the city, Forgot and the Rex apprehended him violently, beating the weaker and unprepared Albai into submission despite protests from others nearby. The bronze Skorthuzian was then dragged to the tower of the Maw without mercy, tortured with a hex of Ogrol, and sacrificed ritually to the spirits in a brutal display of savage violence. Kor’garr must note despite his friendship that Agis made many mistakes up to this point. He slandered the rex from a position without merit or proof multiple times, attempted treason, threatened to abandon the Horde, and most importantly implied a goal to spread Shamanism that he had no authority to teach unchecked amongst those who would abuse the Spirits out of malice. All this while putting off the Honorary trials that would grant him honor necessary to be listened to as kin of the Horde. Instantly, news of these events spread and outrage flared from Sulianopoli as there was no coordination nor official announcement of these action nor their reasoning. In a follow-up interview, the Rex blahh’d: “Agis received powers he was nub worthy of. He was a zealot of Scorthuz who did nub know his place. He was a lesser who had the arrogance to always challenge mine decisions. He threatened brothers multiple times, agh when the urûkim took him up on his threat, he ran away in his twiggo cowardice." Yet the Bronze Lads did not know the details. All they heard of was an unjust and unreasonable murder of kin and vassal. In mere cactus days a large monument of sandstone was raised within San’Velku, a pillar of demands to the Rex from Sulianopoli praising the spirits, affirming loyalty shouting for justice, and generally wanting answers to what the zog happened at the Maw. The terms upon the pillar are listed below: I - A hecatomb in cattle to sacrifice as they wish. II - a Feast day for the lesser spirit Pharis and for the memory of Agis Penweather. III - A ritual to ensure the sending of Agis’s soul to Scorthuz and not Ogrol, allowing the Bronze lads insight ‘As a show of trust… [to] his deep mysteries’. Many, many members of Sulianopli and Honorary orcs signed this pillar, including Zozhs’Mau the Terrifying, Quiil’Mau the Defender, Maarhbgrush (Formerly Luthriel), Steleos Kekenomos Hyptos, Dromos Mandelos Hyptos, Caelius, Obok Metuldrinkz, Dri’kaar, Tzkar Elar, agh Anazagoras, with the ending notice “No Lad abandons another Lad, No Brother Should” being both a public declaration of kinship and a comment interpreting betrayal from the Rex. Reasonable assumptions given their lack of complete knowledge or context, as the Iron Horde has still nub made an official comment on this execution. Yet again, Forgot created yet more tension, using a cannon to obliterate the monument and tearing the rubble apart with a pickaxe after claiming the elves were weak and dumb. He was later defeated and punished for this arrogance by the Brazen Bull of Ugluk, and now that the cub was sent to the stargush via Dragon, Kor’garr ponders that issue has been resolved naturally. The Kaktuz Weekli will continue to report as this situation unfolds. The Rex has not officially responded to demands, despite mentions of possible compromise to be found in private discourse. In his words: “When he died, he was nub ah shaman, he was nub of the bronze band of Sulianopoli… Ahm pretty sure Scorthuz claimed his soul.” ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ In a series of wonderful events for the Horde, many members of the Orcish diaspora have returned to our proud people and taken positions within the city of San’Velku! The newfound clan of Duhr, neolithic brethren used to subterranean life, have stepped up to claim the shared title of Rukagoth in an unexpected move and already shown their experience in proper craftsmanship techniques to appease the spirits. Mjoruk and Bjarg Duhr, having recently defended our harvest from overgrown avian scavengers, will regularly host explanations on how to properly craft weapons and armor in a way that will avoid jealousy or curses from beings such as Glutroz or Paxahru… All this despite them refusing to use metal instead of stone. Kor’garr is astounded by how effectively they can use more archaic materials. The brothers have also begun paths of pacting with the Elemental realm of Earth and the practice of Haruspexy, the traditional art of craftsmanship with ancestral grizh to channel the ancestral spirits into their creations. In the meantime, the one known as Ofric’Lur has taken the mantle of Huntsgoth, continuing the Hunt of a Hundred years in spectacular fashion after the disappearance of our last lead hunter. Mere kaktuz days ago he lead an expedition to successfully slaughter multiple large alligators and even capture ag live Throdaag: This is a H’ (V) meter tall bipedal reptilian behemoth! Covered in additional fanged maws and slitted eyes, the massive and cruelly intelligent maneater entered a rage upon its subordinates being slaughtered by Ofric, rushing through the lake towards the party. Larger than dub ologs side by side, the being’s titanic might was halted by the honorable skills of Lakeidas’Raguk, Avotha’Lur, Obok Metaldrinks, and our new Targoth Kuvirr. The enraged beast thrashed around until with clever use of whistles and various distractions, including a large broadhead arrow from Kor’garr, it tumbled into a binding hex from Zhomo Emony Akaal and was incapacitated. The savage and monstrously strong creature, requiring H’gahk (VIII) Uruks to lift, rested caged within the Gorkil Clan Hall for later use in San’Velku’s arena through Ofric’s excellent tactics and guidance until slaughtered by the Rex himself. Even now the honorable worshipper of Votar searches for more prey to take down. In the very words spoken during his Claim; “Lup Votar, the King of the Hunt, patron of all those who lurk in the tall grass and stalk their prey. Lup Freygoth, whose benevolence surrounds and provides the very beasts and animals we stalk.” Another new event for the Horde is the establishment of a neutral and unaffiliated Alms-giving guild called the CRUCIBLE upon Horde Lands with permission from the Rex. This coalition of artisans and crafters aim to spread good will and knowledge throughout Almaris for all Descendants to prosper, and they have been making outreach efforts to various other communities for an exchange of expertise or trade. If your group might be interested in contacting those who would accept all with good will for the Descendants, regardless of origin or nature, Kor’garr does act as Head Scribe and may be messaged. The Crucible is already announcing classes to reduce illiteracy amongst uneducated populations! ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Many events of note have taken place over the past few weeks in Hayhollow, land of the Halflings and a usual quiet respite from the Eternal Wagh of Almaris. Azhtly, they declared war. Let Kor’garr repeat in writing: The HALFLINGS have declared war on Burrz-spawn and Ibleesian cultists that have been invading their lands, even calling members of one daemonic cult to trial over blaspheming within their lands. Mimosa Applefoot, Mayor of Bywater, released multiple descriptions of these cultists so they might face the rightful purging they deserve for betraying the Descendants of Almaris. Of course, the culprits never revealed their cowardly faces even to the so-called smallfolk. Instead, they committed a petty act of vandalism by cursing a tree and turning it into some form of demonic plant. Ultimately their revenge was harmless, the howling edifice of twist wood easily removed by a decent logging choppa’ and a few minutes of hard work. More recently Hayhollow has had a burst of anti-biggun or outsider sentiment, making official changes to their codes for housing and properness that ensure fellow halflings take priority. This comes after many concerns of overcrowding and the dilution of Halfling Kulture, with Mimosa Applefoot the Mayor of Bywater stating: “We must first take care of our own people! A shire for halflings, by halflings, and of halflings!” Personally Kor’garr can understand the annoyance of having unwelcome visitors constantly attempting to settle upon your land agh ignore proper culture. An update: In additional Anti-Biggun action a merchant stall was burned down over its use of minas coin and locked containers. A manifesto in what appears to be pumpkin juice was penned advocating for a general removal of all foreign cultural influence from the Hayhollow region, including large houses and economic systems. The Kaktuz Weekli will report upon further developments if needed. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Skumu has decided that there is nub enough buub facts for Skumu to keep putting facts, so for this izzue of Kaktuz Weekli, Skumu is starting a competition! Readers please send in Poems dedicated to Skumu’s brave and charismatic pig, Kor’Garr Jr! Skumu and Kor’Garr will choose the winner and lat will win a personal art by Skumu herself! Sounds fun yub? Latz must send in your entry before the next issue! Skumu’s time limit will be azh week since Kaktuz Weekli gets published! Hozh luck!! ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Here is where Kor’garr or other members of the Kaktuz Weekli will respond to messages submitted by our readers! Feel free to Blah with Kor’garr or send a bird to San’Velku’s aviary with your questions or stories, and we will put them into the Paper! ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Please note we are still looking for interviews with those who participated in the Siege of Shattered Skies! Next Week: More will be added in later issues! Please note we are still hiring members for a variety of occupations which will be paid for in Minas or other goods if negotiated! ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Kor’garr - Zkriptgoth, Owner. Skumu - Head Artist, Formatter Kretz'Ox - Assistant Writer --
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【♢ -♢- ♢】 Bundles of newspapers would be spread throughout Almaris for all to see. While written cleanly and vividly upon dense sheets of high quality parchment, the pages of blocky script would also be covered in scribbled cute doodles! Including the wonderful BRAND! The floral berry smell of jungle inks wafts pleasantly from each heavy page. This must be... 【♢ -♢- ♢】 Vol. Futh (IV) Azh’Kint’Azhty’Futh (CXIV) (114), Second Age ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ As promised, Kor’garr needs to explain what happened to delay last year's paper. Simply put, a select few from the Iron Horde, including Kor’garr and the Rex, were invited to investigate and help reclaim the ruins of Khron’Hundmar at the behest of Qudlia Jusmia. After much travel, over 30 brave adventurers were assembled at the entrance to the cavern, a mighty cacophony of Stouts in plate, elven archers, a few… voidal mages. And even a mighty animated golem of stone and rune crafting. After some exchanges of various supplies and meals to fend off the cold (Kor’garr handed out an Orcish Delight to the Dwed known as Dor’Nal Hammerfist, who greatly enjoyed scarfing down the delicious treat in several massive bites), as well as various prayers to the honored Spirits and the Brath’Mordakin, we made our descent. Immediately, dark tidings were known amongst the warband. Massive spiders and tangled webs had taken residence within the top floor! Kor’garr’s position in the front line alongside the Golem allowed for others to deliver fatal blows to the Olog sized monstrosities of Kinul, and no major injuries were taken. The Rex and Golem notably struck clear killing blows upon these arachnids. After some debates about the nature and origins of such beings, the relationship between the Orcish and Dwarven pantheons, and a small history lesson about Orgon (may it never return to the Ugz), the rest of the halls were cleared until at the bottom depths of the mines a previously undiscovered cave in halted progress. Kor’garr must admit, seeing the coordination of the Ztowtz in their hasty excavation of the path forward was a beautiful experience. Damona and Rylanor Goldhand, Norli Starbreaker, Durin Hammerforge and Klouf Grimgold are all experts in mining and shifting the earth, especially in time with their ancestral songs. Unfortunately what awaited beneath was not so lighthearted in the slightest… A cavern horridly deep below the surface, infested with nightmarish amalgamations of insect and pulsing flesh. Giant fire beetles that could launch themselves, hydra like worms that spat corrosive acid, and Kor’garr personally contested against a pallid lurker of four meters in length. Blades clashed, magic was cast, and injuries of all sorts were taken as the party of Gahk’ty (Thirty) fought to survive against these terrifying monstrosities… And then the rumbling. A massive trench of darkness, chitinous legs, and swarming insects parted ways to reveal a beast of Buurz and Grizh the size of a building… A corrupted lurker broodmother, each leg the size of an Olog and easily a good Futh’ty meters in length, covered in swollen veins and dripping in potent toxic ooze, crushed several dwarves against the crumbling cavern walls with its mere presence. Kor’garr attempted to climb the creature to no avail, merely being drenched in the corrosive numbing slime until hearing a horrid crack echo through the cavern. The party was calling for retreat, the entire cave system threatening collapse… and a Zharan tonne of armored firebeetle had juzt crushed the Rex, crumpling his armor and ribcage into a mangled mess. Kor’garr’s entire body went numb as he, along with Qudlia with her blessings from Akezo being shouted at full volume, spent precious minutes carrying the shattered form of flesh and enchanted armor up through the trembling underground Goi. A dwarf, anchored against the titanic beast with a misthrown tanglefoot potion, screamed in despair and resolve as he was left behind… Time became a blur for me from that point on. All I know, aside from the feeling of melting in Kor’garr’s own weighted and spirit blessed full plate, trapped in an inescapable prison of agonizing slime, is that through some miracle of the Spirits this mere Clanless orc somehow made it to the surface with the Rex in tow and alive before falling to a paralyzed heap underneath gloomy clouds and pouring rain. The goi of Khron’Hundmar was devoured. Not by the worm, but some new swarm of horrific insects. Only after heavy healing from the blessed Jusiam Quzmia did Kor’garr even lay eyes upon the collapsed mountain of rubble, or have the strength to write once more. The Kaktuz Weekli is dismayed to announce this new threat to all the beings of Almaris. Doom approaches, and it is not from the Necromancers or a dragon corpse. It rises from beneath. After writing this Article it is revealed the Dwarf attached to that Broodmother somehow survived, and is now some sort of prophet. Truly, the one known as DURIN AKRAKTHREIN HAMMERFORGE has been blessed with the boon of Ghorza’s luck. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ As some of you readers have seen, there was recently a massive incident between our new Rex Ar-Borok’Akaal and the Motsham Al-Uk’Yar of the Grand Moot, where he and several others made a public statement accusing our leader of… well, a lot. These various accusations were then followed by a lengthy list of demands including his resignation from the Rexdom, a subsequent trial, and even the threat of a Civil Wagh were said demands not accepted. In their words, “Should the Bûrz Rex fail to descend within the next cactus day a combined force of the Bronzen Band lead by the Honorable Pamphilios, The Ashen State of Nor’Asath lead by its Primarch, Netseth Loa’Chil, As well as a combined warband of the faithful uruks, elf spawn and other Bûrz hunting Orders or Entities shall cascade upon the Rex Palace and purge the Bûrz away.” This public missive, signed by multiple spiritual authorities including but not limited to Murdoc’Lak the Aengulslayer, Netseth Loa’chil the Primarch of Nor’Asath, and Pamphilos of Sulianopoli, created bub’hozh amounts of civil unrest within San’Velku… For nub’Uruks that means many angry shouts, a few fistfights, and even some weapons being drawn out of scabbards. Thankfully, Kor’garr was present when Rex Ar’Borok announced an emergency gathering in the Hall of Rexes for this conflict to be resolved honorably before any Uruk blood was spilled by the blade of fellow kin. The air within San’Velku’s keep was horridly tense, irritable Ologs and hot headed Raguks clamoring to make themselves heard over the riotous clamor. Kretz’Ox and Qudlia Jusmia stepped forth to state at least some of the accusations were outdated, considering their recent trip alongside the Rex to the Lesser Immortal Spirit of Orcish purity Dûthsharkû, and only then did the main opposition towards the Rex arrive, the Motsham himself, in heavy robes and bearing a gnarled staff. Both the Armored Akaal and the Robed Yar hurled insults and frustration at each other, both insulted by the lack of honesty and clarity in the other’s actions… Azh by Azh each point within the original missive was addressed. A wave of vampirism within San’Velku in years past, the nature of how the Rex views the spirits, a lengthy discussion about the Brazen Bull and his status as Buurz or not… At one point, the young cub known as Kuvirr proposed the excellent idea of The Motsham and Aengulslayer acting as advisors to the rex in a more official capacity, an option immediately accepted with great enthusiasm by those within the Hall. With tensions settling and promises of greater clarity exchanged, Rex and Motsham approached each other with daggers in hand and grins upon their weathered faces. The Rex: “Grîzh hûl grîzh hôn. Urûkim grîzh. Hôn izû Kinul, Scorthuz, Leyd ûgh Freygoth. Hôn izûbu grîzh ah-âsh, KRUG” And the Motsham’s response: “Beahr latz palm Borok ob deeh Akaal, Zo wi kan bi bruddahz.” Blood was drawn and palms pressed against each other by a display of ultimate trust not seen in generations. With the chanting of Uld Blah and the mingling of ancestral blood, the two Uruk leaders were bound to each other in an ancient ritual of brotherhood, to show their reforged honesty and unity! A massive chant echoed throughout the air above San’Velku: “Azh'Grish, Azh'Horde, Azh'Voyce!” The topic of Agis Penweather and his conflict with the Rex was also mentioned, leading to the, somehow mutual, breaking of the Albai’s arm and his consequent loss of consciousness in the middle of the Hall. After a lengthy celebration from the resolved conflict, a joint missive was published by both the Grand Moot and the Iron Horde in order to settle any ongoing sentiment of frustration or perceived slights. The statements include a mutual recognition of authority between the Rex and Motsham in their duties and authority concerning both the Iron Horde and Grand Moot, a dismissal of the previous accusations from both parties, a formal agreement to cure the now verified ‘buurz’ being known as The Brazen Bull, and of course an official announcement of the newly made blood bond between Ar-Borok’Akaal and Al-Uk Yar. With this possible schism resolved through Truth and Honorable conduct, a bright future is shown for the Iron Horde! P.S. Kor’garr must note that while Krug-kind does struggle with the curse of Bloodlust, our own governmental conflict was handled with far greater efficiency than the events concerning a certain Zhara kingdom to the East. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ This whole article started with a single legal document read by Kor’garr, a summons of one Jovennar Bishop of Haense, to the court over allegations of some botched trial. Suddenly I was reading through demands from children to kings, allegations of adultery between two male Zharas (which Kor’garr still doesn’t peep the issue about the choice of partner there?), and an absolute riot of a court transcript. Simply put? The legal court of Haense is a mess, and that’s from us here at Krugmar. We don’t even have written laws at the moment. In a message to the king, three young kubs are demanding reparations for being unable to sit in as the audience of an ongoing trial. This is already concerning, as hiding the judgement of the Truth behind closed doors allows for lies and dishonor of the most heinous kind. Worse yet is the preferential treatment given to certain children due to their family line, a strange human practice that is quite useless. Cubs are cubs, they should be taught and protected equally instead of being bullied by armed adults. Moving on, the summons over the case of Alejandro Sands was due to a severe… mess. This Jovennar Bishop was being summoned to “explain himself”, which we all gruk in human terms means to stand there while someone with a crown yells at you over what you zkah’d up on. Again, the happenings of a strangely private court hearing were questioned, and the mention of spectators not being protected by guards and robbed in front of the courthouse are hilariously laughable. Was no one carrying a proper stabba’ to defend themselves? On that note, why were these bandits in the middle of the Hanseti capital not executed? While Kor’garr does not wish to re-write the entire transcript, it is available from the Haense government archives and I highly recommend giving it a glance-over. There are misused legal terms, a defenestrated Olog, an apparent riot, children throwing fish, and more. An excellent comedy script if I have ever peeped one. Despite the humorous tone, this is sadly no laughing matter, for shortly after was the honorable soul Audo Weiss, a veteran who helped defend all of Almaris against the undead Cloudbreaker, summoned to the court for "assult", again in a case taken by this Jovenarr. Over self defense against a stranger to the nation. Again, Kor’garr is baffled by the sheer lack of common sense in the Haense courts… Thankfully, Kor’garr has some ‘hozh news. After being summoned by both the Knightly Council of Haenseti-Ruska and the crown, the former Jovenaar Bishop has been stripped of his job, office, fancy knight titles, and political or legal authority in one fell swoop. In quite the appropriate move, the official notice from the knighthood stated Bishop’s breaking of their code of chivalry, which I imagine to be much like the Kodes of Krug except not quite as high in standard compared to the Descendant race literally blessed with being Honorable. Similarly the Crown made a good decision for twice (once being their support in the Siege of Shattered Skies), explaining that.. “With the distrust of the citizens of Hanseti-Ruska towards the nominated Jovenaar, he could no longer continue rightfully in his role as an appointed Jovenaar of the nation.” Let’s all hope the Truth is brought to light more quickly in the future, nub? In the meantime maybe Kor’garr should write up a formal record of laws in the Iron Horde… ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Ah, Yub, the Uncooked Orcish Delight. While a delicacy amongst the children of Krug, it can be seen as savage, barbaric, or heinous to those without more open minded sensibilities concerning appetite. Simply put, the Orcish Delight is a traditional meal or snack of a whole, freshly slaughtered, raw poultry. Of course this seems disgusting by itself to any foreign readers, so rest assured that this wonderful treat is actually the pinnacle of fine dining despite any crude appearance. First, the chicken is slaughtered and the raw poultry plucked and blessed in the name of Glutroz, the spirit of gluttony and greed, for his appetite is what leads to the eventual mouthwatering savory tang. Afterwards, the infusion must be prepared, for that is what makes this dish truly special. Fresh blood from an Albai soldier, a captured elf that has waged against the Iron Horde, is taken in ritual sacrifice to the Major spirit Gazigazh, also known as the Blood Mother. The vital crimson brine is collected into a large cast ferrum cauldron, into which crushed desert berries, thinly sliced and harshly spicy peppers, and some powders such as cinnamon and peppercorn are all mixed. The bundles of avian meat, still uncooked, are submerged completely into this metallic culinary jus for an entire Kaktuz day as shamans then perform multiple rituals in honor of the ancestral spirits of Grubgoths who have created this amazing delicacy in the past until finally seeking the blessing of the ancestral Grubgoth Wud, to properly anoint the now thoroughly crimson meat. Immediately after removal these rare treats are wrapped up within wax paper and stored in frigid areas to prevent spoiling, if not consumed immediately after the taxing rituals. In terms of taste, the Orcish Delight has an avian meat base that is almost overpowered with the delicious coppery tang of Albai blood. Notes of sweetness from the ripe desert berries balance perfectly with the searing heat from those split open seeds within the harsh peppers, and an undertone of bitterness from the peppercorn lays beneath the umami of uncooked flesh. Once you bite in, the crimson stain from infused jus is visible throughout the entirety of the uncooked bird! No matter your origin, Kor’garr highly recommends trying an Uncooked Orcish delight at least once! The comforting pungent aroma reminds you of the battlefields, sating your bloodlust and inspiring you to do your best for an upcoming Wagh. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ This segment, new with this week's release, will show off famous and important locations in the Krugmarian capital of San'Velku! First will be the pride and joy of our blacksmiths, the Spirit Forge! Called 'Aanghum Znarim-ob' in the shamanic language of Uld Blah, this mystical smithery gives off a feeling of awe and majesty to any proper metalworker. This wonderful artifact was made by a Moot of shamans… Blessed by both the Immortal Greater Spirit of… Gentharuz, and the most famous orc blacksmith in recorded history, Azog himself! A boon to any metalworker, the forge allows for metal to flow and shift with ease, convincing even the most stubborn metals to be cast into molds without issue or weakening of the final product! Of course, the wondrous nature of this sacred forge truly shines when an experienced shaman and blacksmith work together as azh vessel for the spirit's influence on this Ugz; such collaboration allows for the creation of blessed weapons enchanted by the Greater Spirits through proper ritual during the forging process. The war-fog of Enrohk, shades of Kor, gleaming silver brilliance of Kezt, all can be imbued within these sacred works of faith and metallurgy. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ A good while ago, an announcement from the Grand Moot was released on how the lesser vampire Sarah Artenin was on trial as a Buurz creature. Kor’garr was there to record the events first hand, and can provide a full transcript if readers wish, but for brevity we shall display the following quote from Motsham Al-Uk Yar: “Sentenced by the One Voice, Motsham Al-Uk’Yar, And cured by Techgoth Kretz’Ox’s alchemical mastery the former Lesser Vampyr Sarah Artenin has been cured of the wretched disease known as vampirism. Additionally Sarah has been found to be tied to the wretched void, This too a disease outlawed in the territories of the Grand Moot.. The Motsham has sentenced Sarah to find the cure and take upon residence within the Spiritual stronghold of Nor’Asath where the local Pôrobmog Qudlia Jusmia along with aid of Scortuzian, Agis Penweather, are tasked with the cleansing of the sentenced soul.” This extremely merciful decision was due to Sarah’s earnestness in seeking out an end to the taint in her soul and willingness to provide the names of other suspected blood-tainted darkspawn to the Grand Moot. Afterwards, Sarah Artenin was escorted to the Krugmar clinic of Dr. Bumba Akaal. Bound down tightly upon an operation table with heavy ropes and chains of aurum, the woman prepared for Kretz’Ox, master alchemist and leader of clan Ox, to assemble the cure using potent reagents and a sample of pure human blood. After some bloodletting to weaken her, Sarah was fed the cure… The results were harsh yet hopeful. Howls of rage similar to the bloodlust of Krug-kind, thrashing and straining against sizzling chains, demands for something, anything, anyone to drink from… Praises of Scorthuz, spirit of purity, were given by the Shaman. “Scorthû'z afâr! Krank ob Kaal!” As a note, during the curing of a vampire it is imperative they are tightly restrained and kept away from any source of flesh blood. Them drinking the Grizh whether directly or from a glass will cause the cure to fail. Extended fangs fell away, blood red eyes dimming as the lesser, now former, vampire lost her energy, falling to near unconsciousness… Afterwards, Sarah Artenin and her spouse were provided housing and medical aid within the Ker Goi of Nor’Asath, yet despite orders from the Grand Moot turned out to quickly flee in departure to Lurin. In response, a missive of foolishness and warning was given out by the Silver Lubba in response to the Iron Horde’s merciful curing of one of their citizens! While they claim “the holding of our citizens against their will is a vile act”, Kor’garr does note that the tension was settled personally by the Motsham and Silver Lubba. Eventually, Sarah Artenin and her spouse were willing to meet in a neutral location for an exclusive interview with the Kaktuz Weekli! The full transcript is recorded as follows (Spoken Blah is written in Common): ✦✧――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Sarah Artenin: “Alright-tighty, I am ready for an interview.” Kor’garr: “How did you meet each other, brief accomplishments, stuff like that?” Sarah Artenin: “Me and Faeryel met some time ago, actually. I'm currently seventy-six, if it matters. It was in a tavern, and, Faeryel correct me if I'm wrong, overhearing some conversations I wedged myself into the topic at hand. If I recall it was magical in nature. I taught her magic, aaand, well, stuff happened, and we drifted apart. The story resumes some thirty-one years ago, where we then hit it back off with each other, and entered our relationship.” Faeryel: “And I don't know whatever other details you need. I told Sarah my vast and very interesting life story, and she agreed to teach me. This was in the Llyrian city-state, on Arcas, some… hundred and seventy years ago. Hundred and ninety-one, Wow, almost two hundred.” Kor’garr: “Is that not very very old for one cursed with the mortality of Horen’s blood?” Sarah Artenin: “I should mention I have often travelled to the far-reaching corners of the world, away from civilization, where times seem to shift and act differently. Hence why my age does not match this time frame.” Kor’garr: “So, after all that time and voidal connection. You seemed calm and at peace with life. How did Vampirism get mixed into it?” Sarah Artenin: “As I explained at my trial, I was turned to vampirism by forceful means. The way one is turned is by the consumption of tainted blood, and, if you are unfortunate enough, the curse will spread. There was a time where I was very eager to get it removed, however, due to the social stigmas at the time, and the cases I observed of 'cures' often meaning 'burned alive', I decided instead to just hide away. I figured society would eventually progress to a point where curing was normalized, instead of murder, at which point I'd then search it out again. Thankfully, in my time as a blood-sucking parasite, I had one consistent support in my life. Faeryel. It was thanks to her efforts that I was able to avoid attacking the innocent, and we managed to keep my condition out of the eyes of others.” Kor’garr: “Yes, the blind hate against victims of the Dark can work against the goals for a more pure World… And such choices didn’t impact your relationship?” Sarah Artenin: “I think it'd be best if Faeryel answered this one, if she'd like, as she was definitely bearing the burden and strain.” Faeryel: “For me, it was a bit of a… mixed bag. I'm an elf. Sarah's a human. The obvious problem in our relationship hung heavy over my head. I didn't want her to die. I still don't. I think it's monstrously unfair that we should have less time to spend together, just because of the differences in our heritage. It was a curse, yes, and it harmed her in… subtle ways. But I gladly gave up my blood for more time with her. It was more than fair.” Kor’garr: “And yet, it hurt you. It hurt Sarah. It was a danger to everyone that was unaware of the truth, unable to help or protect themselves if everything went wrong. No?” Faeryel: “Well, it both introduced some new fears and assuaged some old ones. I no longer had to worry about my wife dying of old age. I now had to worry about her being hunted down. I would say the fear of persecution greatly outweighed the hurt of extracting a pint of blood every year.” Kor’garr: “So worse than the disease, is the lack of support for the afflicted? And how did you not get it as well?” Faeryel: “I didn't get it because I'm not in the habit of drinking my wife's blood.” Sarah Artenin: “Mhm. And I was not in the habit of trying to feed it to her. It spreads through drinking undiluted cursed blood.” Kor’garr: “So you say, after over twenty years, you did not get sick even when Sarah fed on you. Which means that those afflicted don’t need to worry about accidentally spreading it.” Faeryel: “Indeed, you can only become a vampire from drinking a vampire's blood, so if you're extending someone's life by donating your own blood, you have nothing to fear.” Kor’garr: “Then let’s talk about the curing process.” Sarah Artenin: “Mm! The trial and the cure. What did you want to ask about?” Kor’garr: “I never heard how you were brought to Krugmar, Sarah. Did you seek the cure yourself?” Sarah Artenin: “Uh… Mm, no. That day in particular… I actually came to Krugmar to talk a little about the spirits, to try and learn a little more. I was… Rather unfortunately stricken with ill fortunes, that day, as I found myself surrounded at the aviary, and more-or-less forced into a salt test. I carried no weapons, nor ill will, and as I saw the salt coating the dagger, well, I didn't want to experience the searing pain that comes with the salt test. So, I simply admitted that I would fail the salt test specifically, and asked if I could leave Krugmar, never return, and that could be the end of it. After all, by this point me and Faeryel had established a routine, and I was causing no harm to any others… Alas, 'twas not to be. They subjected me to the salt test anyway, despite my admittance of guilt, and summarily grabbed me, threatened to break my bones if I resisted, and dragged me to trial. Then begins the trial part, which, well, I'm sure you're aware of that part. I think you were there? It's all a bit of a blur, in truth. My nerves got to me, and I emptied my stomach on the floor twice. Couldn't stop shaking. Very terrifying experience.” Kor’garr: “Well, it is good that you told the truth before being stabbed, though I do wonder how you were chosen to test. Orcs are rough when confronted with unexpected surprises. But that is no excuse. How are you doing living in Nor’Asath?” Sarah Artenin: “Mm, I wonder too. One of lifes mysteries. I was unarmed, that day, and not wearing armour. I thought wearing a smile and a peaceful enough look'd dissuade folk. It usually did. Uuuh.” Faeryel: “It remains a mystery how they deduced that Sarah's be a good person to corner and test.” Sarah Artenin: “Regarding the movement situation. Mm. Well, in truth, the Motsham's words were a little… Abducty. I was more than willing to learn about the spirits before-hand, hence why I travelled to Krugmar in the first place. I wanted to go to my home. In Lurin, the place I've lived for many, many years. I was told that I lived in Nor'asath now, and that it wasn't really my decision to make… In their insistence in attempting to brainwash me, it actually has driven a fearful wedge between me, and my enjoyment regarding learning of the spirits. So, admittedly, I am sad to say I am currently residing in Lurin, a little bruised and scarred from the situation… My education on the spirits comes, now, from a few friends of mine from Nor'Asath that I'm in contact with, and some of the Haelun'orian shamans.” Kor’garr: “I will say at least in part that was intended to keep you both safe from crusading Canonists or other unspiritual types. I offer to educate you as well.” Sarah Artenin: “… It set my desire to learn to a pitiful amount. I really wanted to learn, I really, really did. But… The Krugmar-Nor'Asath experience really ruined that for me.” Kor’garr: “I am sad to hear that… And your voidal connection? Has it ever complicated the condition or curing?” Sarah Artenin: “Uhm, well, my voidal connection is a little unique, you see. It's distanced from me, in fact, which results in the poisoning I experience being heavily restricted. My magics are hindered, and most masteries I had are rendered null and void, as I can no longer cast the big spells. My strength and stamina are functionally identical to what I could've achieved pre-poisoning. In fact, I'm pretty shredded, actually. I even roam in half-plate, most of the time.” - “But to answer the question as to whether or not… I've considered completely disconnecting myself from the void? Well…. Once, maybe twice. It pops into my head as a passing thought, but it's been such an integral part of my life for so long that… It'll take a lot of time for me to do it, if I decide to at all, you know? It's a major, life-changing decision. Not something that can be so readily forced on an unwilling soul. To let that go, you need to be certain, I feel.” Kor’garr: “Now that you are not Vampire-kin, will the connection shorten your lifespan?” Faeryel: “No, garden-variety voidal practice has no effect on your lifespan.” Sarah Artenin: “Mhm.” Kor’garr: “Alright. And what of the future?” Sarah Artenin: “The future… Well… To me, our future is us. I think that no matter what comes next, whether it be my disconnect from the void, or, some other path… I'm sure that I'll make it through okay, so long as I have Faeryel.” Faeryel: “. . .My thoughts exactly.” Kor’garr: “So, what would you recommend to those in the same struggle as yourself, Sarah? Seeking a cure, but fearing for their life from zealots?” Sarah Artenin: “… I… Would advise them to confide in close friends, and their support circle, who can try to reach out to people that can cure the individual, without necessarily endangering themselves to the zealous who believe redemption is impossible. Trust in your friends, and your family… And try to get help early. I found that the longer I was afflicted, the less I wanted to turn back, personally.” Kor’garr: “Despite the actions against you, have you heard of the stout who got cured from their void affliction, willingly?” Sarah Artenin: “Mm, I've read that missive. I was mentioned by name in it. I'm happy that the dwarf was able to find their peace in parting with the void, and wish them all the best on their new journey through life. Hopefully, it's a happier one than the one they lived.” Kor’garr: “Given the Moot can in fact peaceably cure those willing, would you recommend that those afflicted with Vampirism reach out to the Horde of their own volition?” Sarah Artenin: “You know, actually.” - “I was surprised by the efficiency, and care, that the Orcs took in curing me. It was a much gentler affair than I was expecting. The curing process, whilst painful, was better than I expected. The aftermath wasn't, but, yes, I'd personally recommend reaching out to Krugmar, provided they're treated as fairly as I was through the process.” [We all thanked Skumu here for their wonderful artwork of the interview.] Kor’garr: “Thank you Sarah. Any last words?” Sarah Artenin: “Hmm… Thank you for reporting honestly on the matter, and interviewing me for my opinions and words. It's been a… Good experience, and helps put to ease some fears I had. I'm looking forward to reading the next issue. Um. Um. Oh, and I love my wife Faeryel, she's the best ever wife, and you should put that in the newspaper. That I love her so much, I would give my heart and soul for her happiness.” Faeryel: “. . .It was a harrowing experience. I'd rather not go through something like that again, but my worst fears of Sarah being discovered weren't realized, and our relationship's gotten stronger because of it.” ✦✧――――――――――――――――――✧✦ If lat or someone lat knows wishes to be cured from the vampiric plague, please encourage them to reach out, either to the Kaktuz Weekli, the Iron Horde, or the Grand Moot, for treatment. We will offer all willing a new life without fear of being a Darkspawn, the ability to take up housing, and education on the Spirits. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Welcome to Skumu's second ( Dub ) Buub segment! Skumu has been working really hard to think of hozh facts for you all! What Skumu has learned is that Buubz dream just like lat agh mi! Buubz dream of many things Skumu can barely imagine! But while watching all the buubz Skumu has learned that not only do they dream and kick their little legs, buubz also sleep nose to nose with their bruddas and friends! Isn't that so cute? Skumu wishes she was a buub so she could sleep nose against Skumus' favorite people. Like Kor'Garr! Skumu would sleep nose to nose with Kor'Garr if Kor'garr was a buub. Oh! And Borok! And Lakeidas'Raguk, Oh and SkullCrusha'Raguk! Skumu would sleep nosey nose with them too! Skumu has many friends! ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Kor’Garr and Skumu are proud to say thank you to the Rex of Krugmar! So RULG Borok! Latz support is meaningful and this paper wouldn’t be around if we didn’t have such a hozh Rex!! ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Here is where Kor’garr or other members of the Kaktuz Weekli will respond to messages submitted by our readers! Feel free to Blah with Kor’garr or send a bird to San’Velku’s aviary with your questions or stories, and we will put them into the Paper! “Dear Kor’garr, I am a reader of your Newspaper, the Kaktuz Weekli. It is nice to see someone who observes and writes the events of the world for others to see and learn from. I am from Haense, and was wondering on your opinion of the recent happenings within our legal system?” -Unsigned Reader Luckily for you, the Kaktuz Weekli has already made this article just above! Glad to sate your curiosity. “What motivated you to begin a paper explaining the events of the World? It must be difficult - what prompted you and Skumu to take on such a task?” -Celian Bough When Kor’garr returned from the wild wastes of the southernmost sands, he had been given a task from the spirit Kor himself, to properly record the honorable lives and histories of those entering the Ancestral Realm, my fellow members of Krug-kind. This led me to discover a fierce devotion to spreading the Truth, not just of Orc Kulture but events concerning Almaris at large! It is a calling I follow most fervently, to properly honor the spirits Immortal and Ancestral, as well as my still living kin. Skumu just likes to help Kor’Garr! Nub thing else! “Should the Krug-Hai have more officer positions?” - Kuvirr Kor’garr is not the Targoth, but officer positions sound like a good idea as the army expands. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Next Week: An Archive of the War in Petra! Uruk of the Week makes a Return! More will be added in later issues! Again, Rulg to the Writer’s Guild of Almaris for their support in this publication. Also please note we are still hiring members for a variety of occupations. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Kor’garr - Zkriptgoth, Owner. Skumu - Head Artist, Formatter -- [OOC - Pings and References]
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【♢――】 Bundles of newspapers would be spread throughout Almaris for all to see. While written upon dense sheets of high quality parchment, the pages of blocky script would also be covered in scribbled cute doodles! Including a wonderful BRAND! The scent of jungle berries wafts from vividly colored inks... but for some reason the printing looks rushed, formatting slightly off. 【♢――】 Vol. Dub (III) Azh’Kint”Azhty’Gahk (CXIII) (113) of the Second Age ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ FOREWORD Many of you wonderful readers have been wondering why this wasn't released yet, or will have questions about the lack of some usual topics we include. Simply put, Kor'garr is still recovering from severe injusries at the vicious maw and toxins of an exotic broodmother lurker of some horrific origin. More details will be released soon, so We here at the Kaktuz Weekli apologize for the substandard issue. On the other hand, this is getting written anyways because something is better than nothing... And also due to many here giving Kor'garr some very much needed advice the Kaktuz Weekli is looking for writers, reporters and other employees to help make the article part of this organization less of a one orc show. Amendments to this issue may come in the future, maybe not. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ As all across Almaris might know, the undead scourge once known as Cloudbreaker has been defeated by a grand coalition of forces from across Almaris! Irrespective of origins, brave warriors, magic users, medics, and ballista crews worked together to defend the city of Balian from a long siege as a group of expert adventurers fought to destroy the accursed vessel animating the dead dragon… And all forces were successful. While lives were lost in the glorious battle against the Buurz, the sacrifices of the honorable souls are not in vain. A special edition of the Kaktuz Weekli will be released in the near future containing greater details, a recounting of the many events that occurred, and interviews with multiple sources that took part in the battle. If you have reached out about interviews, do not worry, Kor'garr will meet with lat soon. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ THE RISE OF A NEW IRON HORDE! In an unprecedented reveal, a Kukaal (Clan Leader) of Clan Akaal has announced a challenge for the position of Rex against the currently reigning Rex Willy of San’Velku. A public missive posted upon the walls of San’Velku, explains Ar-Borok Akaal’s motivation to shift Krugmar towards a more aggressive stance “against the deceiver, against her necromancers, mystiks, vampyrs and other darkspawns'' as the lands of Almaris prepare for War once more. This is after various claims of Rex Willy, despite being a good diplomat, remaining inactive concerning other hostile nations and the progress of the Iron Horde in general. Meanwhile Ar-Borok is an individual notorious for controversy, including an incident creating tensions between Krugmar and Aaun during the Siege of Shattered Skies. Kaktuz Weekli staff, present in person when the challenge was stated, quote from Ar-Borok “As the Wagh on darkness goes on, it is time for us to return to an age of war. Willy is not a warrior, he is a diplomat, a [Redacted] good one. I had talks with the Wargoths of Clan Ugluk and of Clan Lur, with the Dominus and Rex. Here and now, I claim the title of Rex of the Iron Horde.” We all eagerly awaited Rex Willy’s response and it turns out the former Rex does approve of the mantle passing down. Unfortunately an official Honor Klomp, a practice not seen in generations, will not be assembled for the Spirits to show their favor upon either potential leader… but other leadership announcements have created much change in the Iron Horde. Droku of Clan Lur has taken the title of Huntsgoth to announce a Hundred Year Votar, Kybal of the Akaals is stepping up as leader of their clan, and Skullcrusher of Clan Raguk will now command the Iron Horde’s military as Targoth of the Krug-Hai. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Foreign Affairs: WARNING! A TRAITOR AT LARGE! Despite our recent victory against the Buurz, Kor’garr believes this information is quite important. Recently the leadership of the Iron Horde and spiritual nations at large have released announcements declaring the one formerly known as Kul’Raguk to be a Whitewash and affiliated with the Darkspawn! Specifically, This horrid traitor has aligned itself with beings of necromantic and demonic natures, dishonored the spirits, interrupted the sacred process of a venture into the Spiritual Realms, and openly become a worshiper of cursed Ibless. In turn, Clan Raguk has stripped the Whitewash of all titles and affiliations. In effect, this means Kul “The Red Worm” should be apprehended or killed on sight by the armed forces of any spiritualist or Darkspawn opposing nation. The traitor is a crimson red skinned being around six feet tall, commonly wearing robes and a mask to disguise the lack of proper orcish tusks. Caution is recommended as there have been sightings of Kul using dark magics of unknown nature to evade capture. In addition, an Azh’Kint (100) Minas bounty has been placed upon the head of this horrid criminal, to be presented to the gates of Krugmar either dead or alive. Please contact the Kaktuz Weekly or San’Velku personnel immediately upon capture or murder of this blight upon our lands, so the reward may be handed out accordingly. Individuals to be sought out include the Motsham Al-Uk Yar of the Grand Moot, Ker Shaman Jusiam Guzmia of Nor’asath, Kaktuz Weekli owner Kor’garr the Clanless, Challenging Rex Ar-Borok’Akaal, or Dominus Madoc’Lur of the Iron Horde. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Here is where Kor’garr or other members of the Kaktuz Weekli will respond to messages submitted by our readers! Feel free to Blah with Kor’garr or send a bird to San’Velku’s aviary with your questions or stories, and we will put them into the Paper! ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ “More will be added in later issues! Again, Rulg to the Writer’s Guild of Almaris for their support in this publication. Issues will (now) always be released during the later half of the Grand Harvest. Also please note we are still hiring members for a variety of occupations. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Kor’garr - Writer, Zkriptgoth. Skumu - Artist, Formatter [OOC - Pings and References] References
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[!] Letters, printed in the vivid inks of jungle berries and flora, make their way to all corners of Almaris [!] ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ To all those who participated in the Siege of the Shattered Skies, In efforts to properly record the whole truth of those brave and honorable actions taken by every living being who fought against the cursed Undead, we invite you to send recollections, details, or even mere snippets of your valiant efforts taken during this glorious Wagh. These missives will be collected for publication and annotation within the next issue of our newspaper in a record breaking epic of an upcoming headline article. Whether warrior, paladin, archer, medic, shaman, citizen, even those of the Dragon-blood or users of the voidal scourges; All are welcome to reply. Of particular interest would be record of our brave allies who fell in battle defending the lives of us all, so they may properly be remembered and welcomed into the stars above wherever their souls might go. And even if you are some still rotting enemy, wishing to let the world know of your continued existence... Kor'garr will spread your name as well, so we can make sure to crush you more permanently next time. Please send responses by bird or contact Kor'garr the Clanless in person at Blarg Nyx (Zero) in the city of San'Velku, Wagh Nation of Krugmar. Thank you all. May Ghorza bless your travels, The Staff of the Kaktuz Weekli. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦
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【♢――♦】 Bundles of newspapers would be spread throughout Almaris for all to see. While written cleanly and vividly upon dense sheets of high quality parchment, the pages of blocky script would also be covered in scribbled cute doodles! Including a brand new BRAND! 【♢――♦】 Vol. Dub (II) Azh’Kint”Azhty’Azh (CXI) (111) of the Second Age ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ It is time for all to sharpen their blades, don their armor, and prepare for a grand assault against our Great Enemy! Recently the Rex Willi of San’Velku, in keeping with the honour and courage of Krug-kind, has declared that the Iron Horde shall stand alongside our allies in Balian to defeat a new threat. In his own words, “The urukim of the Iron Horde declare their full support, militarily and logistically, to the people of Balian in the wake of threats of destruction from the undead dragon known as Cloudbreaker” This support will encompass everything from soldiers, weapons, and magic, to more nub-klomping aid such as protection and vital needs for the civilians forced away from their homes after the undead filth’s brutal attack upon their capital. The Kaktuz Weekli staff are filled with pride and inspiration upon seeing the people of Krugmar set aside the vile curse of Bloodlust in order to work together with our fellow descendants in Honorable combat against our true foes; the darkness that threatens all life upon Almaris. In the meantime, the shara Rex known as His Royal Majesty Alexander the Azht (I) of Balian has announced a grand summit for all the nations of Almaris to attend, so that more of Descendant kind can work together in defeating this monstrosity! In the Human Kings missive he explains “It is with these desires that we establish ‘The Atrus Covenant’, to mark both the occasion of this summit and to cement our united goal in staving off the onslaught of the undead Cloudbreaker and its minions.” Which is a lot of zhara blah for “Lets get ready to Klomp a Nubded Dragon.” PREPARE FOR THE WAGH, EVERYONE! Such an event will happen on the Azhty’H’gakhth (XVIII) day of the next Daumanlob (Snow’s Maiden) at their Palati Monterosa (Kor’garr assumes that’s their bub’hozhest and most fancy castle). ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ After an understandable pause in frustrations due to the general good cheer during the Krugsmas celebrations across Almaris, it is regrettable to see a return to the usual hostilities between the proud Iron Ugz and our aggressive neighbors to the South. The children of Krug have by no means forgotten the past offenses against them, including various heretical insults, slander, false claims against our Rex, and recently the senseless slaughter of a brother who was blessed by the spirits himself to be gifted animalistic features in honor of the Brazen Bull, all of which no apologies have been issued for. Because of this, Rex Willy of San’Velku has released an announcement declaring the Banishment and exile of all those who follow the banner of Celia’nor from lands of the Horde, in order to, in his own words, “Protect all citizens of the Iron Horde from the destructive tendencies and dark magicks the people of Celia’nor wield and use at their disposal with little to no regard for the rest of the realm.” The Kaktuz Weekli wonders how the void-aligned and darkspawn colluding nation will respond, if they decide to at all. The obstinance of the ‘elven’ nation concerning political matters is quite well known at this point… ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Whispers have been spreading around the spiritual circles, mentions of celebration and trials… The Kaktuz Weekli refers, of course, to the upcoming Vau’Loz! The Vau’Loz is a grand ceremony spanning the lengths of multiple Cactus Weeks, where believers in the spirits from all nations and origins gather to compete in trials, give offerings, and prove their belief and strength in the eyes of the Spirits! This event has not occurred in many, many ages, yet the creation of the Grand Moot has finally brought back the connections required to make such a wonderful display of honor, strength, and worship take place. After some discussion with the event organizers, Kor’garr is delighted to announce the Moot is seeking event hosts, organizers, announcers, and laborers of all kinds to help prepare the events and contests. Such work shall be done in Krugmar, Nor’asath, and even other locations, consisting of both building event sites and representing the Moot during said events. Please reach out to Kor’garr or the esteemed Zhomo Qudlia Jusmia for more information, either in person or with a bird… Agh yub, Kor’garr will provide payment. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Many wish to warm up by a roaring flame during the winter chill, or recover from the heat of too much mead with a taste of winter. In that case, look no further than the wonderfully soothing Orcish beverage known as an Ungri Cocolog. Originally made my the brilliant goblin Nin’sqeek’Ungri for her ravenous Olog brethren to recuperate after one too many holiday feasts (hence the name) this splendidly sweet treat is made with decadent amounts of rich pale milk combined with decadent dark chocolate for all to enjoy. This festive bittersweetness is then balanced by the generous dollops of honey and her special ingredient of infused oracle wood extract, creating a soothing calm that can settle even the most voracious olog’s hanger tantrums. What’s best is this special beverage can be served either chilled (making a rich layer of cream float atop the heavier liquid) or heated (making for a smoother drink that will alleviate any post blizzard sniffles)! Kor’garr personally enjoys his cocolog piping hot with some of those wonderful marshmallow cubes the musin introduced me to, as they slowly melt into the beverage over time for more sugary goodness. Nevertheless, these drinks come in staggeringly large bottles and should be consumed quickly after opening, lest the rich milk spoil in warmer weather. P.S. Kor’garr has experienced first hand the folly of serving this to Musin. It is milk based, and they cannot handle dairy to save their stomachs… Please don’t, for everyone’s sake, let them drink it without ample warning. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ This is a wonderful time for any worshiper of the spirits! Recently our renowned Motsham (head shaman) Al-Uk'Yar has announced the beginning of a grand union between spiritual states and nations across all of Almaris! This coalition begins with the formation of deeper ties between the shamanistic circles of Krugmar and the Ashen State of Nor'Asath, and with the spirits blessings will grow to include the Halfling peoples in our near future. In the meantime, concerns have been raised over the origins of the mojo known only to the writer as “Blood Alchemy” within the Iron Horde. Practitioners claim there is no relation to Dark sources of any kind since it follows the methods of alchemy and the strength of Krug-kind’s ancestral vitality, while spiritual traditionalists under the leadership of our new Motsham call the newly popularized art a disgrace to proper shamanism and worship of the spirits. Only time will tell how this brewing conflict continues to unfold within the Horde. ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ This issue’s Uruk of the Week is our new rising star, brother Bumba’Akaal! I was very excited to interview my fellow orc at the Betharuz Tavern and hear all about his recent achievements; This wonderful brother has some hefty aspirations and the strength to peep them through to victory! Note that the following are written in approximations of verbal blah to better capture the character of both interview participants. ✦✧――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Kor'garr: …Zoh diz iz dah tik tu kall latzelv vanzi nayms agh tytulz. [A short chuff of mirth before the interview continues.] Zo, Whoo iz Bumba'Akaal? Dr Bumba'Akaal: Mi ahm Bumba'Akaal, Kukaal ov clan Akaal, Medicgoth ov da Iron'Uzg, Haruspex agh Witch Doctor, Shaman ov Grizh agh Healing. Kor’garr: Yub, veri hozh! Dat'zag lot uv tytulz, agh nub-urukz moight noht uhndurztand awl uv dehm. Kayr tu ixplayn abowtz lat being dah Medicgovv nowz? Dr Bumba'Akaal: Ah yub. Mi have years agh yearz ov experience sakrificing people agh thingz, zo mi haz learned ah deep grukkage on da body agh wub it takes to heal it. Zo mi will uze my haruzpexy agh zhomizm fer such. Kor’garr: Yub, agh 'ow wihl daht grukkage ov zakrivyze 'elp lat en dah duteez ov Medicgovv? Dr Bumba’Akaal: Well… Der ahm alot ov wayz it will do zuch… mi planz on expanding da medikal zervicez ov da goi. Mi wantz to create ah group ov medical profezzionalz dat haz ah high succezz rate in saving bruddahz like… fifty percent, yub. Agh den mi wantz to make uz well known zo all da Uzg can gruk da powur uv urukim medicinez! Kor’garr: Dat iz'ag veri ambizhuz goal, Doktor Bumba! Wihl deez medikul zervicez bi moztly vor emurgenzi, ohr alzo teyk kayr uv moar muhndayn helth izzuez en dah goi? Dr Bumba’Akaal: Mi zervicez will be open to all peepul, yub… it ahm important fer all people, evun nub-uruks, to have accezz to affordable medicine. While mi practicez ahm extremely, extremely, bub'painful, dey ahm efficient agh will lead to helping bruddahz agh people, yub. Kor’garr: Wehl, wi moight wunt tu yuze zum blizzvoyl vor dah nub-urukz… Meybi'ag travel ohr tryp tu zhow lat'z zkyllz en medizine moight bi hozh vor latz buzinezz tu zpred. Dr Bumba’Akaal: Yub, mi planz on traveling around agh offering mi zkillz to people, but dat ahm ah few yearz down da road…. Firzt mi needz to turn the medical offices into ah known resource, yub. Kor’garr: Dat iz'ag hozh ideyuh, yub. Agh how much wihl lat bi yuzing zhomoizm en dah clinic'z regyulur akzhunz? Dr Bumba’Akaal: Mi will uze zhomoizm a lot, ezpecially on more extreme zituationz like lozing limbz agh zkak… But mi grukz medical haruzpexy ahm ah more holliztic experience, yub. Kor’garr: Kor'garr wihl peep vorwurd tu dah moar widezpred yuze uv Haruzpexy dehn. …Wehl, daht zhuld bi awl Kor'garr needz, unlezz lat gotz eny lazt rimarkz vor dah reedurz? Dr Bumba’Akaal: Mi latz remarkz iz dat mi wizhez to uze mi incredible expertize in medicine to zhow da Uzg da greatnezz ov urukim agh zhow dat der ahm honor in every tik ov profession! ✦✧――――――――――――――――――✧✦ As everyone can see, our new Medicgoth is an exemplary model that Honor is not only to be found on the battlefield or through taking lives, but also by saving them and allowing our fellows to fight another day. Surely more like him will be needed in the coming times, and the Kaktuz Weekli is delighted to find out how his career in medicine develops! ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Recently Skumu has acquired a buub, it was a Krugzmaz gift from Kor'Garr. Skumu is very very thankful, so adding onto Kaktuz weekli is a segment where Skumu shall draw a buub for you all and give you a fact about them! This issue is about how much smarter buubz are than howlers! Buubz are so much smarter they remember where grub is and will never forget! They love grub just like so many Bruddas! Also they can play games! They are the fifth ( H’ ) Most intelligent animal in the world! Skumu loves Buubz so much! Here is Skumu's Buub! His name is Kor'Garr Jr! ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Here is where Kor’garr or other members of the Kaktuz Weekli will respond to messages submitted by our readers! Feel free to Blah with Kor’garr or send a bird to San’Velku’s aviary with your questions or stories, and we will put them into the Paper! ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ “More will be added in later issues! Again, Rulg to the Writer’s Guild of Almaris for their support in this publication. Issues will (now) always be released during the later half of the Grand Harvest. Also please note we are still hiring members for a variety of occupations.” ✦✧―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――✧✦ Kor’garr - Writer, Zkriptgoth. Skumu - Artist, Formatter [OOC - Pings and References]
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[!] Bundles of newspapers would be spread throughout Almaris for all to see. While written cleanly and vividly upon dense sheets of high quality parchment, the pages of blocky script would be unskillfully formatted, with a noticable lack of pictures or other artwork. [!] THE KAKTUZ WEEKLI Vol. Azh (I) Azh’kint’H’ (XV) (105) Second Age Current Events KRUGMAR SLANDERIZED, HYPOCRISY RAMPANT While the topic of Krugmar’s great war against those beings now referred to as the Synods was going to be the headline piece of this issue, Kor’garr cannot simply watch and do nothing as the Ugz lays outrageous accusations at the feet of all Krug-kind. Consider this an apology for the obvious emotion and clear lack of neutrality in the following article. Recently news of the most cursed being Iblees’ return has been announced, and with it a resounding volley of claims that our Rex and those under him have forsaken the spirits and instead bent the knee to serve under the very being responsible for our curse. In particular, The Albai Princess Valyris Ibarellan directly stated in official writing “The Rex has sworn fealty to Iblees” and “prepares for war alongside the Betrayer’s loyal necromancers.” [!] The piece continues on another page further in... [!] ORC KULTURE - Grog agh Grub Prove Your Strength! Heart-eating and its Benefits. It is well known among the children of Krug that simply defeating a foe in battle is not the best of ways to show your own strength over a bested enemy. Instead, it is common for Orcs to obtain and eat the vital organs of adversaries who have proven especially worthy, as a way of absorbing their strength and climbing it as our own! One muscle of special importance where this is concerned is the heart of a slain enemy, representing their vitality in battle and the flow of their Grizsh (The Blah word for blood, which usually alludes to one of the three famous Orcish humors). In order to show true conquest and growth through the ferocity of battle, a freshly fallen enemy's heart will be carefully harvested with a special blade and then consumed at the site of victory raw and uncooked, to better preserve the echoes of lingering life and appease the spirits. A greater amount of the organ being consumed displays a greater victory over the foe and growth in strength, while being unable to stomach the chosen quantity of raw flesh will show clear signs of arrogance and weakness, not being able to withstand the power of a foe you have already bested. In a less ceremonial sense the consumption of vital organs in a raw form helps young Uruks with their swift maturity and need for large amounts of fresh meat to bolster their quickly growing forms… And let’s not forget that hearts are wonderfully tasty, albeit more dense and gamey than other meats. Kor’garr recommends pairing raw heart with lighter and sweeter beverages such as Cactus Fruit Wine, in order to provide a better contrast between the fragrant aromas of fresh fruit and the metallic tang of a freshly slain foe. Also, against some foes the consumption of their raw and unpurified flesh is a distinctly poor idea, such as those tainted by Buurz’Mojo or the cursed taint of Iblees. The Kaktuz Weekli is nub responsible if you flat yourself from poor decision making. ORC KULTURE - Spiritualism The Spirit of Ublulhar! With this being the first ever issue of the Kaktuz Weekli, now would be a great time to mention the spirit known as Ublulhar, patron of hope and new beginnings! A well known and welcomed entity to praise among Krug-kind, Ublulhar is known for supporting acts of creation and welcoming change towards a brighter future. His commonly represented form is that of a small entling, or living tree, bursting from the ground, symbolizing the growth of new life. Uruks tend to avoid the usual methods of sacrifice when worshiping this spirit, instead tending to the growth of young plants or animals as a way to show devotion to the optimism of Ublulhar’s concepts. ORC KULTURE - Uruk uv da Week This is Uruk of the Week, a section where we highlight a member of our great Horde to talk with and ask them about themselves! With the lack of tik available for interviews, this particular issue is less of an interview and more of a self-introduction. So… Kor’garr Blahs “Ug”. Kor’garr is a Clanless orc that was born in the year 1770 of the first age, being brought to Almaris as a child. I am an accomplished Blacksmith, Dinker of Grog, Diplomat, Friend of Musin, and have even been Rex of the Iron Horde in the past back when it was called the Wagh Nation of Krugmar. My favorite hobbies include beating up giant beasts and collecting bottles of fine alcohol to display in my tower. I am an orc of the Red Sand born under the constellation of Ghorza during Agongraz (or the Amber Cold for the Nub’Uruks)... Ah, and I have a distinctly glorious handlebar mustache. Aside from all that, I am now the owner of the Kaktuz Weekli, though it is more of a one-uruk show at the moment than anything else. Q&A CORNER Here is where Kor’garr or other members of the Kaktuz Weekli will respond to messages submitted by our readers! Feel free to Blah with Kor’garr or send a bird to San’Velku’s aviary with your questions or stories, and we will put them into the Paper! Since this is the azht issue, of course, there is nothing to respond to yet. Ending Comments Staff Notes: “More will be added in later issues! Rulg to the Writer’s Guild of Almaris for their support in this publication. Issues will always be released during the later half of the Amber Cold. Also please note we are hiring artists for photography, art, and formatting purposes. ” (OOC References) (OOC P.S.)
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[!] Large posters would be displayed throughout Krugmar, writ upon in bulky yet elegant Blah. Similar works in a surprisingly refined common are spread through Almaris on thick missives of parchment. [!] EMPLOYEES WANTED! As some of you might know, Krugmar will soon release the premier issue of a high quality publication known as the Kaktuz Weekli, a newspaper organized by Kor'garr the Clanless to inform both Krug-kind and Nub-Uruks of Krugmarian happenings. Topics of discussion will include important events both domestic and foreign, explanations of old history, and articles upon Orc Kulture for all to know and understand. For this task we are seeking talented artists and writers to participate in the creation of articles and various media references. Employment will include payment of various kinds, particulars of which can be negotiated with Kor'Garr. Orc heritage is not required, and neither is an understanding of Blah (or Uld Blah), though willingness to become familiar with Uruk Kulture is highly recommended. Please send birds or inquire in person at San'Velku for more information, as positions are limited and time-sensitive. Spirits guide your path, Kor'garr the Clanless