Baracus Kul at Rest; Barbarian Freeholds Established

The return of the undead Mummy Barbarian Queen Baracus Kul was heralded by the strange appearance of a monolith outside the Mages’ Guild on the evening of August 30th. Puncturing the ground like a tomb stone, the monolith immediately appeared with a Circle of Power to keep the citizens away from its rune-encrusted surface. In dazzling display of magic and light, the monolith pulsed as if alive, seemingly daring the foolhardy to attempt to pierce its protective shell. Heralding great tribulation, the monolith apparently acted as a gate, bringing all sorts of strange barbarian visitors—most of which were out for one thing: Revenge against the citizens of Ashbury.

Soon after the appearance of the monolith, barbarian chieftains arrived in force to demand their lands back from the hands of the Barony of Nordenn. Demanding land be turned over them, negotiating was turned to Duke Bryan who assembled the barons present at the time to begin discussing the potential for freeholds for the barbarian people. With the granting of lands to the Sand Tiger tribe recently by Sir Radric (the Military governor of Trellhiem and master of the Tower Hills Citadel), the constant demand for recompense as a result of lands taken in the Northman Wars of earlier this century has continued.

It is imagined that Duke Bryan’s biata heritage was the basis of concern for the Barbarian people. With the onslaught of various powerful undead such as Pansolore and Baracus Kul, it became clear that the time to negotiate for barbarian lands had arrived.

Among the barbarian tribes indigenous to the area of Ashbury, there are apparently small factions devoted to their tribe’s beliefs that have gathered together in a council of sorts. Chieftains arrived in Ashbury to begin negotiations for lands to be returned to their peoples.

The heralding of their arrival was in a most peculiar manner: Crowsclaw, a member of the local faction of the Raven tribe, appeared before the Duke and begged him to attack the delegation of chiefs that was arriving! Later the reason for this strange request became apparent as many of the local barbarian chiefs despised living under the rule of an undead abomination.

Among the different tribes represented were Bear, Phoenix, Raven, and Wolf. They allied against the Snake tribe, the other member of the council, due to their dislike of serving Baracus Kul. Each chieftain possessed a key which would allow the monolith within the circle to recognize six individuals access to the monolith.

In order to obtain these keys, a quick agreement was made with Crowsclaw to attack the chieftains and obtain these keys, and the non-Snake chieftains would be revived to bargain with Duke Bryan. The snake chieftain would be kept unconscious until the bargain was finished and would be confronted separately. When the chieftains arrived, Duke Bryan carefully did not offer Hospitality, and in a matter of moments gave his characteristic attack phrase “These beings offend me.” Quickly ordering that none of them be killed, the keys were gathered and placed within the hands of the Duke.

Bargaining with the chiefs was difficult and heated, and neither side committed, but the agreement narrowed down to five estates to become barbarian freeholds—one for each tribe—in the northwest corner of the Barony of Nordenn. Duke Bryan was particularly nasty in his meeting with the Snake chieftain in order to prevent the chieftain from alerting Baracus Kul to the new alliance with the other barbarian chieftains. The chiefs departed with a strange announcement that the Duke would “know when the time was right” to assemble individuals to strike at the various areas of Baracus Kul’s powerbase.

In the last hours of that same evening, the capital city was swarmed and assaulted by the minions of Baracus Kul. The Mummy queen of the Dragon clan mustered a force of her elite warlords and solidly spanked the defenders of Ashbury. Although her assault killed several of the city’s prominent citizens such as Smith the dwarf and Petra of Forestwatch, many nobles also fell victim in the first volleys of her attack, such as Sir Algar Winterwind, Sir Balynthalis Wellbringer, and the Duke himself.

Baracus Kul’s minions raised the unfortunate victims into zombies and mummies, and added their power to her horde. Baron Tristan was also killed and his sword stolen from him, but by Baracus’ whim he was sent back to the Ashbury citizens gathered to fight and he received a Life spell. Many other citizens died in this attack by Baracus Kul and her minions. Guildmistress Daphne Green was overwhelmed with the amount of resurrections performed. Luckily all resurrected fully.

As savage as the attack was, Ashbury possessed the knowledge needed to strike back at this vile undead abomination and eventually lay her to rest.

As the citizens of Ashbury resurrected, the mummy queen returned to the monolith with her troops and promised to return to take that which belonged to her people: the lands of Ashbury. Even as the people of Ashbury planned their next course of action, the queen was moving her pawns accross the gameboard.

Meanwhile, Baracus Kul’s minion Aslaghor led a party of adventurers into a drake’s lair with the promise of treasure. While the adventurers (Sir Agnar, Lupiticus, and Derek Dreamweaver among them) looted the drake’s hoard, Aslaghor managed to palm one of the Drake’s bottles and smash their clutch of eggs before making good on his escape. The Drake’s anger would later be directed at the Ashbans, while the bottle itself would fall into the hands of Baracus Kul.

The following day, the people of Ashbury used the monolith keys to infiltrate the camp of Baracus Kul. Each group of six performed a different task in order to undermine the queen’s power. The town was mostly successful in their endeavors.

One such group consisted of Lord Zachary, Squires Jaret, Olin, and Lupiticus, and the gypsies Findrago and Natasha. Their mission turned a barbarian tribe against Baracus Kul and retrieved the recipe for the construction of a bone hound, a construct-like creature that Baracus Kul had meant to use against Pansolore.

Crowsclaw later returned to guide several citizens on a quest to obtain the bottle of Baracus Kul, which was wrested from the grip of the Snake clan elders.

During that same evening, the monolith glowed briefly as several of Baracus Kul’s elite warriors made ready to create the Drake (via his bottle) into a liche. Several citizens attempted to parlay with the undead, quite a few of which were unbelieving in that the scroll and components were the real thing. Once it was proven that the magic could authentically be cast, the drake entered into the parlay.

The undead were apparantly unimpressed, and the ritual grew dangerously close to completion. Finally, Sir Algar had an idea. Knowing that the circle in which the ritual was being performed only admitted barbarians, he contacted local barbarian Cormack. Cormack accepted the suicide mission and heroicallyleapt into the circle and disrupted the ritual, causing a backlash. The backlash withered all his limbs, leaving the undead unharmed. The undead were able to easily kill him in his defenseless state. The undead, having no further need for the drake’s bottle, returned it in exchange for the promise of the drake staying out of the Queen’s affairs. The drake later rewarded Cormack by placing some rituals on his weapon, and punished Derek by giving him a spirit linked weapon which constantly attracts revenants.

The following night, Baracus Kul returned to collect the lands promised by the Duke. After a brief foray into the woods, the mummy queen and her minions gathered on the field opposite of the citizens of Ashbury. It seemed as though a fight was inevitable. The Duke, after being urged by the gypsy Ursula Valente who had cursed Baracus Kul many years ago and whose curse was removed by the nobles of Ashbury by mistake two years ago, called out to the queen, stating loudly that it was time she go to her final rest. Many were shocked to hear the queen reply, “I agree!”

After several tense moments, the queen chose an emissary from the barbarians of Ashbury—Etor of the Sand Tiger Tribe—since the Duke would not deal with an undead. The Queen then demanded three estates to be given to the living members of the barbarian tribes; in return, she and her minions would depart, many of them going to their final rest.

His Grace stated that he could only give his word that he would try to give the lands as freeholds, because the King could overrule him. This upset the undead, and many of Baracus Kul’s minions were overheard demanding that the queen attack. But Baracus Kul stayed her hand, instead asking for a guarantee from the Duke that the lands would indeed be given. Again, the Duke refused.

It was at this point that Ursula Valente came forth and handed a glass dagger to the mummy queen. Words were spoken between them, and it seemed as though a compromise was reached, at least between the two. Baracus Kul crushed the dagger as Ursula returned to assist the Duke.

Minutes passed as each side considered the compromise. Many of the people of Ashbury urged the Duke to attack and dispel this undead force. Likewise, the mummy queen’s minions demanded to be allowed to retake the land by force. In the end, the promise was given by the Duke and this seemed to please Baracus Kul, and she moved with her minions back to the monolith, leaving the Ashbans with mixed feelings over the entire encounter.

The estates that have been turned into Barbarian freeholds include Morin and Small-borough. The citizens living in these estates do not have to move, but only have to adjust to living under the rule of a barbarian council. So far there has been no outright rebellion, but some of the locals are complaining about having to answer to the clans. The barbarians meanwhile have begun organizing. They have assured His Grace that they will obey all Ashbury laws and procedures.

In the aftermath of the encounter with Baracus Kul, many citizens were outraged that a compromise with undead was reached; many were relieved that lives were not to be lost; but all were chilled to hear Baracus Kul’s voice come back to them in the darkness, “Should you break your word, I will return!”

Ducal Proclamation Released; Laws and Policies Clarified

Lord Chancellor Faustus Neumacht recently posted the following Ducal Proclamation around the Duchy. Obviously, references to “Her Grace Duchess Mara Tirane Nordenn” should be replaced with “His Grace Bryan Nordenn.” The Proclamation begins with this short comment from His Grace:

Considering the recent terrible massacres, terrorist attacks, and fermenting of civil unrest in Ashbury, the following important changes have been made to increase the protection of the citizenry. Also included are legal changes recently enacted personally, and through the Lord Chancellors Review of the Laws. All the major changes in the laws of Ashbury since Alaric’s removal are summarized below. Thus all citizens are asked examine it, as ignorance of the law is not a defense. Finally, there are guidelines of commoner protocol toward the nobles. All the following measures are enacted for the protection, respect, and efficiency of our fair duchy.

Duke Bryan Islevarr Nordenn

Servant of the Four Peoples

Ducal Proclamation #184/596:

Measures for the Preservation of Ducal Security

On this day, the 30th of July, in the 596th Year of Evendarr, the following measures are enacted to preserve the Security of the Duchy of Ashbury. These laws shall take effect immediately in the name of Their Graces Duchess Mara Tirane Nordenn and Duke Bryan Islevarr Nordenn.

184.1: The fanatically loyal Red Phoenix Company of the Ducal Army has been quartered in key locales within the capital. This illustrious unit, which has guarded the rulers of Ashbury from Oliver Songbringer on, is located only minutes away from Gwendolyn’s Field, and can rapidly deploy to Ashbury in the event of war, rebellion, or uprising. Generally they will be used sparingly to augment the protection of our non-adventurer citizenry. These Ducal forces have strict orders to obey only the Duchess, Duke, Chancellor, and Warlord. Insurrection will not be tolerated, and will be crushed without remorse. It would be preferable that these elite troops never be used for such grave duties, but with rebels active and threats to Royal and Ducal authority, their presence is necessary.

184.2: The Warlord is recruiting for a special forces unit of the Ducal Army to be levied within Ashbury. Medics, Scouts, Footmen, and Sorcerers will be recruited from the competent and talented adventurers within the capital to undertake special missions and serve the Duchy. All recruits will be given rank, privilege, and pay within the Ducal Army on a reserve status, to be activated during times of war or when their special services are required. This unit will be given a company name of their choosing and must be willing to swear allegiance to Their Graces. Excellent performance may lead to noble sponsorship at the advisement of the company commander and the Warlord. Medals of valor and public acclamation can be expected for bravery and loyal service. This special forces unit will not do garrison duty or conduct conventional Ducal Army practices, but instead shall actively root out evil within the Duchy. No longer will Ashbury be a mere victim of such organizations as the Fist, the Dockside Thieves Guild, or the Black Masks—our sword will strike clean, fast, and sure.

184.3: The availability of the Ritual Executioners has been expanded—allowing for the sentence of Obliteration to be speedily executed. The Duchy will gladly supply Obliteration primary components for instances when they are available, but fully intends to utilize all resources now available from the Crown to punish those who plot treason, terrorism, and crime against our fair Duchy. Criminals can expect no mercy if they conduct themselves outside of the King’s Law and receive a sentence of Obliteration.

184.4: All Barons have been given the rank of Ducal knights for the purposes of levying justice. Barons will defer to the Lord Magistrate or the estate holder in all circumstances as they occur. Barons may be restricted from this right at Ducal discretion, and levying justice without trial will not be tolerated. Accused citizens may request to be tried by the estate holder or the estate Lord Magistrate. Abuse of this power is grounds for removal. All nobles are expected to show deference to an estate holder or appointed Magistrate, and proper respect upon any fief that is not their own. Barons are not privileged to place “death” orders on entire estate populations and racial hegemonies or any race consider as “legally defined as citizens,” but instead must try each individual in question with appropriate evidence.

184.5: It is recommended that all audiences sought with the Principality Court of Greenmarch and the Royal Court of Evendarr be requested via the Lord Chancellor of Ashbury. Those individuals who persist in subverting the nobles of Ashbury for their own selfish reasons may be tried for Treason and Sedition. Legitimate grievances against the ruling order will be acknowledged, but the hierarchy of command will be enforced in this process. As all requests for audiences are usually spoken and told to their graces, it would be most intelligent to inform them of discussions as it will likely be forgiven and/or acknowledged. Failure to do so is at the risk of the individual in question.

184.6: The crime of Sedition is officially established, defined as incitement or promoting of public disorder or rebellion against the lawful government. Its normal punishment shall be death, though this is not mandatory. As a clarification, the crime of Treason covers actions against the lawful government, and is the more serious of the two, now requiring a minimum sentence of one death.

184.7: The crime of Ritual Assault is reaffirmed as the casting of ritual magics upon or affecting an unwilling recipient. Ritual casters will not be held legally responsible for flaws or backlashes in these sometimes unpredictable magics, unless it is proven that the caster intended to cause such disturbances.

184.8: Possession of the following articles or items without express Ducal permission is grounds for the new criminal charge of Possession of Contraband, and may result in fines, taxes, and/or possible confiscation or destruction of said item.

(1) All individuals utilizing a Spirit Store ritual within the boundaries of the Duchy must gain due permission from the Duchess or Duke. This includes storage into all manner of creatures be they golems or living creatures. Failure to gain such consent may result in forcible removal from said vessel.

(2) Creation of Limited or Permanent circles is illegal within the Ducal Fiefs and all Ducal Estates without a writ from the Duke or the Duchess. Unregistered Circles will be subject to prompt destruction by the proper authorities upon discovery. Management of Circles on Baronial estates is up to the discretion of the Barons.

(3) Summoning of extra-planar creatures such as Elementals, Pantherghasts, Celestial Hounds, etc. may be performed within the capital city only with verbal consent of the Duke, Duchess, or Chancellor.

(4) All slavers passing through the Duchy of Ashbury must have a proper Writ of Ownership, proper escort, and must have paid a 25 gold sovereign Slaver Tax to aid in the protection of the hated and despised institution of Slavery. Ashbury cannot violate the Royal Treaty Between Evendarr and Niman Regarding Slavery, but the Duchy retains the means to levy taxes for its implementation. This tax pays for border guards and aids in capturing of rogue slavers operating within the borders of Ashbury illegally. Failure to present the proper Writ of Ownership, signed by lawful Nimani nobles, as well as proof of Slaver Tax payment will result in the confiscation and release of said slaves. Slavers caught within the Duchy of Ashbury attempting to retrieve escaped slaves, capture new slaves, or attack honest Ashban citizens are subject to a minimum mandatory sentence of death.

(5) Possession of the primary component for Obliteration is restricted. Therefore all primaries are can turned over to the Ducal Household for safekeeping or registered with the Lord Chancellor. The Ducal household will compensate those citizens who wish to sell such components with a reasonable and fair price. Unauthorized performing of an Obliteration ritual itself carries a minimum mandatory sentence of Obliteration. Performing an Obliteration ritual upon a noble of Evendarr or Ashbury within the borders of Ashbury carries a sentence of mandatory Permanent Death, reducible only by Duchess Mara Nordenn, Duke Bryan Nordenn, and of course their superiors.

(6) The possession of the formal magic scroll Spirit Walk is hereby restricted in the Duchy of Ashbury. The possession of said scroll outside of the Guild leaders of the Royal Mages’ and Healers Guilds’ (not their members) is hereby illegal without Ducal authorization. Spirit Walk scrolls (as well as their components, which do remain legal) may be sold to the Ducal Household for compensation. Failure to register such scrolls will cause them to fall under the levy of contraband.

(7) Possession of any necromantic potions or items, as well as Euphoria and Enslavement elixirs, is illegal. Such items must be destroyed as soon as they are identified or given into the custody of the Royal Healers’ Guild or Ducal Household if they cannot be easily destroyed. Possession of all other scrolls, potions, and elixirs is legal, though naturally, using harmful items upon an unwilling person constitutes Assault and perhaps Torture.

(8) The possession of Forget poisons remains legal, but if it is determined they have been used in a crime, an additional charge of Assault will be levied.

184.9: The act of Gypsy cursing is not itself illegal; what is illegal is placing a curse upon an unwilling legally defined person. Placing curses upon all variety of monsters (not legal persons), as well as declared group or races who are enemies of Ashbury (i.e. Sessuar, Jhivantane, the Fist, Black Masks, etc.), and wanted criminals are all perfectly legal. Magistrates may even compensate gypsies to administer curses as part of sentencing. The Duchess reserves the right to change this policy in the future at her will. A review is being conducted by the Duke and Duchess to examine this for future amendment.

184.10: Assaults committed against the lawful Royal Mages’ and Healers’ Guilds will result in the additional charge of Treason upon the perpetrators. (The additional rights of the Royal Guilds were delineated in Ducal Proclamation 142/595, available at both Guilds.) Those individuals attacking Baronial Manor Houses will also be charged with Treason in addition to any other pertinent charges. Treason against the Ducal Household and assault against its hallowed halls is an attack upon a direct vassal of the King—minimum mandatory sentences of Obliteration will be levied against all involved in such acts, in addition to other charges and sentences according to the particulars of the incident. Bounties across the Duchy will be placed on all involved in such high Treason.

184.11: All commoners are expected to acknowledge the formal and traditional honoring of all nobles in their presence. It is expected that formal titles and addressings of honor will be acknowledged and utilized. In the capital this will be enforced with fines and criminal charges, as necessary, barring reasonable error. As traditions have been far more liberal on local estates in the past, proper acknowledgment of a liege may differ from fief-to-fief. However, it has become a concern that this tradition has been increasingly ignored in the capital. As Ashbury city is the location of political gatherings and examples to our many visitors, it is expected that the following mandates in addressing a noble be strictly followed:

• A reasonable and courteous bow to a Lord or Knight before addressing by his or her title.

• Kneeling to a Baron before rising and addressing by his or her title.

• Kneeling and remaining kneeling until told to rise when addressing a Count, Duke, Duchess, Princess, Prince, Queen, or his majesty King Mykel II. When on the field of battle or within the environs outside the capital it is acceptable to perform a low bow and address the noble, however all must bow before his majesty unless told to do otherwise.

• Failure to address a noble honorably and with the proper title may result in criminal Mockery charges. A noble is expected to show proper respect in turn to the petitioner, who shall have recourse to informing the Paladins in the case of ill treatment. Dispensations to these formalities may be granted by the individual noble in question on a case-by-case basis, but commoners should assume that these formalities be adhered to in the absence of statements to the contrary. Ashbury has been notably lenient with regard to the Mockery of a Noble Title law in the few years since Alaric’s fell reign, but after this period of rebuilding trust and confidence in the nobility, we must return to the traditional standards of Evendarr nobility—not oppressive, but formal and respectful.

184.12: Petitioning the Duchess or Duke: On the Saturday of most gatherings approximately at noon, formal Audiences are open to commoner and noble alike. It is expected that the citizenry take advantage of this, and schedule an appointment with the Lord Chancellor or Ducal Herald. Their Graces reserve the right to order individuals away from their person without a properly scheduled audience—in the past years Their Graces have been quite permissive and open regarding impromptu Audiences at all hours of the day. The burdens of leadership must force an end to this policy. However, Their Graces do retain these Audience times specifically set aside to hear the petitions of Their subjects. Citizens are still encouraged to petition Their Graces, only they are asked to do it properly and register with the Lord Chancellor for a scheduled Audience. Dispensations may be granted for an immediate Audience on a case-by-case basis, but observing the proper respect for the this tradition will allow individuals optimal concentration and the Their Graces full attention. However, failure to appear at a scheduled Audience is deemed a grave insult, and will result in the revoking of this gracious privilege for that individual.

Myrr Embassy Established in Ashbury

It began nearly two years ago with the reratification of a trade treaty between Ashbury and the sarr homeland of Myrr. Now, with the return of Ambassador Aravis Shahruud, it seems as though the Myrrian embassy is about to become a reality.

The Embassy, while having no official charter, would be more like a cultural center for local sarr. It would of course be subject to all of the laws of Evendarr, a fact which doesn’t seem to dampen the sarr’s enthusiasm at all. “There is actually little change for many of the young gorbe, since the majority of them have, in fact, spent much of their lives outside of Myrr,” said the Ambassador. “The Embassy will serve as a place of Myrrian culture and tradition, but for the sarr and for any who wish to experience the ways of our people.”

To facilitate the setup of the Embassy, the Ambassador herself will be staying on to deal with the day-to-day operations. While seemingly pleased with this decision, the Ambassador was also quick to state “The Council of Grand Matriarchs decided that I would remain with the Embassy until another female can rise to the position. I am, of course, pleased that my work has allowed me to remain in Ashbury, but my stay here is temporary.”

The Embassy is currently in its early stages, despite the fact that it has been approved by both Duke Bryan and the Council of Grand Matriarchs. When asked the reason for the delay, the Ambassador said that the Council wished for the Embassy to be “as similar as Myrr as possible so that our culture and tradition can be shared and preserved even in a land as far away as Ashbury. Thus much of what has been donated has to be shipped from Myrr.”

So far, public response to the Myrr Embassy has been favorable. “Duke Bryan was very supportive of this venture, and the citizens of Ashbury, noble and commoner alike, have expressed interest,” she said. “The concept of a place where one can go to experience an entirely different culture appeals to many people, and we at the embassy welcome any all visitors.” The Embassy will be open to the public sometime in November.

Ashbury Men Still Marrying Hags

The green-skinned Norn sisters were back in town looking for husbands—or at least two of the three were. Backwash, currently married to Roland Valinor, was reportedly on her home plane sick with pink eye (the third eye that is). But that didn’t prevent Rothvomit and Cruedah from coming back to Ashbury to replace their previous husbands found at the Way Station this past March.

Marriage to the hags produced a “link” whenever the hags were on the same plane, and this link granted the husbands certain abilities.

Rothvomit’s husband Darwin Xavier had permanently died shortly after their marriage in a supposedly unrelated accident, and Cruedah’s husband Nextor was just not around enough for her liking, so the links to both were broken upon their arrival. Their mourning lasted only seconds as they set their sights on other men in town.

Local Ashbans were very helpful, with Smith escorting them to the tavern as it was the “most likely place to find men.” Everyone they met kindly recommended Randiron, also known as Buck, as the most eligible bachelor in town. For Cruedah it was lust at first sight. Randiron was hers. Meanwhile, Rothvomit targeted in on the second most eligible bachelor according to the townsfolk, the infamous healer Robert Oakwood.

After a brief Norn ceremony behind closed doors, the disheveled men appeared with their new wives, visibly marked and ready to explore the town with their new “gifts.” Robert proudly showed the gathered crowd his ability to make any weapon he picked up glow magical in his hands, while Randiron stood there and took his blows without injury. But the Norn soon grew tired of their new husbands and rifted away, promising to return in a few years.

Only minutes later, the Norn rifted back in with their five-year-old daughters (having apparently rifted to a plane with an alternate time line). Unfortunately for Randiron and Robert, they took after their mothers in both their looks and screeching voices. After a short family reunion, the Norn family once again rifted out, promising to return soon for some quality time.

Wild Elf Clearbrook Becomes Grumblebelly Goblin King

Recently several adventurers were recruited to help a goblin Tribe. Such a thing may sound unlikely for the citizens of Ashbury, but this was a special case. The chief of the “Grumblebelly” tribe was dying, and his daughter had come to Ashbury seeking a replacement. Her name was Princess Whimpers-for-Cheese, and she appeared to be even dumber than the usual goblin, for when one adventurer asked her why she couldn’t marry a goblin and make him, King, she explained it was because she was the Princess.

Among the adventurers who answered her call were Corbin, Azylyryal Leafwalker, and Clearbrook the wild elf. Whimpers-for-Cheese was accompanied by a human fighter named Sam, who assured the adventurers that they were not walking into a trap. Indeed not! As they approached the land where the Grumblebellies dwelled, only a few miles outside of Ashbury, Whimpers-for-Cheese informed the group that they would first have to deafeat her “elite goblin ninja force.” This consisted of four or five goblins standing behind trees with their hands over their eyes, proclaiming “You can’t see me!” at intervals. The Ashbans quickly dispatched this group, and learned that when they hid their eyes, the goblins were unable to see them. Whimpers-for-Cheese was impressed.

The next task appointed the Ashbans was to move an enourmous stone sphere that had fallen from the sky and landed on the Goblin King’s throne. A local troll demonstrated that it was hard to lift, barely budging it, even with his immense strength. It was Azreal Leafwalker who suggested that they roll it out of the way. This suggestion thoroughly astonished the goblins, and they quickly held a heated discussion, which resulted in the unsurprising conclusion that goblins do not know the meaning of life.

Whimpers-for-Cheese then announced that the Ashbans would have to face Mukmuk, the dreaded Goblin necromancer. He had stolen the entire treasury a few days before. While admitting she had never seen Mukmuk cast a spell, Whimpers-for-Cheese assured them that Mukmuk was a necromancer “because he said so!” Mukmuk was protected by living goblins who pretended to be undead; this was ascertained when Mukmuk used a magical brooch to cast a Cause Light Wounds on a goblin “minion,” who yelled “Ouch!” The fight was over quickly, and Mukmuk taken captive by the Grumblebellies.

Whimpers-for-Cheese then took the adventurers back to the open-air meeting hall where they had moved the stone. A large non-magical circle had been drawn; in it stood a goblin of immense proportions. Whimpers-for-Cheese introduced him as Bumpkin, the goblin champion. Defeating him in honor combat was the final task. The Ashbans were able to easily defeat Bumpkin and one of his assistant “bonkers.” The other “bonker” proceeded to declare himself the winner, until the annoyed Ashbans finally silenced him.

Whimpers-for-Cheese then declared the Ashbans the winners. Whimpers-for-Cheese then asked the adventurers to stand around her in a circle. She closed her eyes, twirled around, and stumbled blindly forward, hands extended, and bumped into Clearbrook. Upon opening her eyes, Whimpers-for-Cheese proclaimed Clearbrook the heir to the Grumblebelly throne. Suddenly, there came a noise from the nearby dais. Flysnot, the sick King, had fallen from his throne and was writhing on the ground.

Whimpers-for-Cheese ran to him and began to cry. Alas, Flysnot was indeed dead. The Princess then turned to Clearbrook and hailed her as the new Goblin King. The goblin placed the Bracelet of Kingship on the wild elf’s wrist, then paused, thinking. “My father Goblin King,” she muttered. “You now Goblin King . . .” Then Whimpers-for-Cheese’s eyes lit up. She threw her arms around Clearbrook and cried, “Daddy!”

Sarr Defeat Nightmare Creature

A huge gnoll-like creature known as the “Dom Ghassab” was defeated by a group of local sarr, along with the help of various citizens. The creature, sporting a collection of sarr tails, proceeded through the city, hunting sarr to kill.

It was first met by Rowell Ka’taan and Myrr Ambassador Aravis Shahruud in a fierce battle outside of the Mages’ Guild. Non-sarr were repelled from the creature, much like a pantherghast repels those it is not targeting.

The Dom Ghassab, an obviously intelligent creature, had a number of powerful hyena scavengers as its minions, and they provided assistance. However, by their very nature they are a disorganized creature and were even seen attacking their own members from time to time. They were easily dispatched by the adventurers present.

The Dom Ghassab at one point seemed to be defeated by Rowell Ka’taan, but just at the point before Rowell could deliver a killing blow, a group of Baracus Kul’s barbarians emerged from the obelisk and attacked. The Dom Ghassab rose again, took down Rowell, and collected his tail before heading off towards the Dragon’s Flagon.

Some helpful but ignorant townsfolk pointed the creature directly to the Myrr Ambassador who was having her injuries tended in the tavern. They attacked each other on sight but ended with Aravis’ defeat in the kitchen doorway. Before the creature could collect another tail, Rowell stepped in its way having been healed on the battlefield. The fight traveled outdoors quickly, with Rasq entering the fray. Rowell once more went down bravely, this time due to an Instant Death gas. Still the battle continued.

Without the help of Maximus, Severin, and other healers, who kept the sarr up and fighting, the battle would have soon been over; but with the help of their friends, the sarr were able to finally defeat their mortal enemy. With fierce roars of triumph, the sarr fell upon the kill, tearing out its heart. For several minutes, nothing but savage growls were heard from the bushes where the creature had fallen.

The sarr finally emerged and gave their thanks to the brave citizens of Ashbury who had helped them to destroy the Dom Ghassab.

Unconfirmed rumors hold that Oradell, the Nightmare Elemental, was involved in sending the creature after the sarr.

Cadmus Invades Ashbury Again

The evil sorcerer Cadmus recently sent his forces of dark dryads into the heart of Ashbury again to attack his hated enemies.

Early on the morning of Monday the 2nd of September, the trees around Gwendolyn’s Field erupted with dryads and wood golems bringing “greetings” from Cadmus. They attacked the forces gathered upon the field and were able to do great damage, especially with their ability to charm others despite any magical protections they may have. The start of the battle was not too difficult for the biata, elves and Mystic Wood elves of the town, who attempted to stop or break as many charms as possible, and many of the mages of town had studied Awaken spells anticipating their need for the expected fight with Baracus Kul that never occured. However the dryads soon used up all the Awaken spells in town and even the elves began to fall prey to the insidious charm abilities of the dryads.

The field became a scene of chaos as the townsfolk began fighting each other. Several townsfolk fought their friends as if they were now the deadliest of enemies. Baron Konrad was seen to throw a death spell at one townperson for attacking the dryad he was charmed to. Sorceress Shalizar reportedly killed Roland Valinor for her dryad after no more Life spells were available to the town.

Several of the more powerful dryads exhibited the ability to enslave others with their gaze. These seemed to concentrate on the earth casters of the town, warping their will and causing them to cast foul necromancy against the defenders of Ashbury. Anakin was seen to cast necromancy upon the battlefield but was known to have been under the influence of these dryads.

The dryads had a mission besides random violence. They sought the lives of several prominant townsfolk for their “crimes” against their King Cadmus. Baron Konrad, Sir Faustus, Lord Aloryn, and Squire Olin were all on the list of those wanted for death. At the end of the battle, several survivng dryads left the field returning to the trees from which they came, they left several dead bodies behind. The other thing they left behind were a large number of townsfolk who had been rendered unconscious in order to stop them from fighting with the dryads. The town was totally out of Awaken spells, potions, and scrolls, and had no recourse but to knock out these people and stack them like firewood in the tavern and Ducal Manor house until the charms wore off.

The last of the dryads to leave was heard to intone the typical evil warning to Ashbury and those who would stand against the power of their lord and master Cadmus.

Twilight Lords Foiled

The Twilight Lords, a group dedicated to the destruction of practitioners of celestial magic, recently made an attempt on the life of visiting mage Cygnus Ausfeilser, a celestial researcher from the Acadamy of Arcane Arts and Sciences. Shalizar, who has dealt with this group and their minions before, sent Senior Guildsman Dame Kittery Valinor to deal with the attempt which she had learned of. Dame Kittery led a group to save Cygnus from Samuel, a traitor from within the guild itself who was working with the Lords of Twilight.

The group managed to save Cygnus and capture the traitor, setting back the plans of the Twilight Lords and ridding them of an effective agent.

To date Shalizar and her guildsman have captured two of the Lords of Twilight and stopped many of their minions and hirelings. However, to the best of information available, there are still five Lords free to work their evil, including the mysterious “Dark Lord.”

Knight Wins Thief Competition

A team consisting of Sir Algar Winterwind, Squire Xavier Kimball and Squire Roland Valinor obtained the most “tokens” in the second Voltan Legerdemain Competition and were to be rewarded by Voltan businessman Vestrin Bellicose.

Relying on a strategy of “if it takes longer than a minute, skip it,” the team was able to travel farther than any other and obtain more tokens.

The Corner of Chivalry: Negotiating with Undead

This month’s discussion will focus on dealing with undead.

There has been much discussion about town comparing the actions of our nobles during two separate encounters with the undead Baracus Kul. During her first visit, Dame Mara and Lord Justice began by speaking with her to find out her intentions. This is not a violation of the code. You cannot hope to deal with a possible threat effectively if you do not gather as much information about the situation as you can beforehand. However, you should not take all that is told to you at face value without further support from other sources.

During the discussion, Baracus claimed that she and her armies could not rest until every living creature left the city of Ashbury, as it was the site of their ancestral burial ground. During the exchange, Lord Justice argued in favor of total evacuation of the city for five days, believing that this would lift the curse from Baracus and her people. Baracus said that the five day abandonment might be enough. Lord Justice based his stance on the word of an undead alone. That was his choice. When it seemed as though the conversation was turning towards negotiation, Dame Mara made several attempts to find a living representative to negotiate with. When none proved forthcoming, she made it very clear to Lord Justice that if they negotiated with Baracus Kul directly, they would both be commoners in the morning. He agreed to the 28 day nonaggression, and a deal was struck. I

n contrast, Duke Bryan was informed of Baracus Kul’s return in advance and was able to negotiate with living barbarians for the resettlement of the estates before her arrival. He had fulfilled his commitment to the living barbarians as citizens of his duchy, and also avoided direct confrontation with Baracus Kul, which would have undoubtedly caused heavy casualties among his people. By granting the land to her descendants, he was able to aid in ending her undead existence.

Not every duchy within the kingdom of Evendarr interprets the code the same way we do. On a recent visit to Ashbury, Royal Justicar Sir Cedric Hampton informed our nobles that our stance on dealings with undead was particularly harsh by kingdom standards, and had gained a certain amount of notoriety in Evendarr. But, he said that it was for the keepers of the Code, in this case the paladins, to determine the official interpretation for their duchy. Therefore, our interpretation is, and will remain as such: there will be no deals made, treaties forged, nor promises given to an undead that will not be seen as violations of The Code, unless they clearly bring about an end to their undead state.

This will put an end to the discussion of whether it is permissible to break your word to undead. If you do not give it, you cannot break it. It is also never permissible to lie to an undead, because a lie dishonors the one who tells it as well as the one who has been deceived. A lie is a lie, and it violates the code.

The Code of Chivalry is not here to justify vicious acts against those we dislike, nor substantiate attacks against those who disagree with an individual’s ideas. We do not discuss points of the Code each month so the populace at large can discover new avenues for removing nobles. If you choose to accuse a noble of violating the Code, do so out of moral obligation, not out of spite, and be prepared to present evidence and firsthand testimony to support your claims. Always consider your honor and the honor of those around you, be they noble or commoner, so that they too can remain on the right path. The Code is the groundwork for a better way of life for everyone, and lights the way for a truly noble existence for those who keeps its tenants in their hearts.

The Paladins of Ashbury

Magistrate’s Report

To the citizens of Ashbury,

I am pleased to announce that it has been a relatively quiet month in the estate of Ashbury. However, there are some things I would like to bring to everyone’s attention.

A couple of “business” women appeared in our fine city recently only to later be convicted of dominating a local townsperson and then attempting to escape while they were being escorted to the ducal prison. I would like to remind everyonethat unless you trust someone not to go walking off alone with them. These women could have easily murdered the man in question had they wanetd to.

Another recent case of note was that of the ritual caster who spirit forged five people against their will, and subsequently the same five people were enslaved by a man under the employ of the caster. While it is possible the caster did not know they would all end up as assassins, or that they were enslaved by a person under his employ when they appeared at his circle, he bears the responsability of the safety of those five people and was sentenced to one death for the crimes.

Two hoblings, Setkel and Bobo, have brought charges against Kiegan McEwan in the death of one of the hobling clowns several months ago. Due to some evidence that I was not aware of at the time these charges are being investigated and will be dealt with very soon.

I would like to take this time to happily announce that crime in the estate of Ashbury has been on a steady decline in the past six months. Let us all hope this trend continues.

Lord Magistrate Naerfen Kel-tier’lin McEwan

Killian the Jester’s Monologue Discovered

The following jokes were left behind somewhat crumpled up near the “stage” where Blythedale jester Killian Drake performed recently.

Top 10 Reasons Why Justice McCoy Should Still Be Baron

10. Commoners don’t know what to do with their new found wealth.

9. Biata population is going through the roof.

8. It was easier keeping track of all the felons when they were on a unified team.

7. Jesters would have had a lot more jokes if he hadn’t been disciplined.

6. Duke bored—no one to argue with.

5. Ashbury now plagued with fudge shortage.

4. Merchants fear surplus of red and black tabards.

3. Paladins no longer have someone to use as an example.

2. Upstart commoners need someone to put the fear of Tyrra in them.

1. Undead need friends too.

Duke Bryan declared that all Oaths of Fealty to Baron Justice McCoy were null and void. That got the squires of Trellheim upset. He also declared all Oaths of Fealty to former Baron Morgan null and void. That got the knights of Trellheim upset. As an afterthought, he also declared all Oaths of Fealty to Pansolore null and void. Boy, that really got the Harvest Moon upset.

Did you hear that Robert Oakwood was in possession of Kinslayer, the talking sword which compels you to kill your family? Talk about justice. . .Well, at least he has someone to talk to.

Ashbury now has three paladins: Lord Chancellor Faustus Neumach, Dame Kittery Valinor, and Sir Ivan Drake. Essentially we have a beer maker, a beautiful woman and a virgin as paladins. If that doesn’t spell trouble, I don’t know what does. . .

Did you hear that Baron Konrad Valinor adopted eight orphans from the Drake Technical School for Wayward Children? He is certainly deserving of our applause. . .Of course, after everyone left when he took over the Ash Forest, he had to get somebody to boss around. Now personally, I would rather make eight children with Dame Kittery than adopt them but, hey, different strokes for different folks. And apparently someone isn’t getting his strokes. . .

A Little Birdie Told Me

by Sue D’Onym

Let’s talk for a minute about Public Notices, shall we? I’ve personally found some interesting things in them lately.

Take last month. There was a notice which said basically “Kelial, you are nothing but a coward!” and it was submitted by someone who signed their name only as “H” in order to perserve his anonymity. I say! Who’s calling who a coward here?

Now, if someone wrote something in a public notice to “Sue” and I couldn’t understand what it meant, I’d naturally assume it was for some other Sue, wouldn’t you? Not Corrine DuFore, who in this month’s Public Notices angrily assumes that anyone with the same name as hers must be a “lying coward.” “Always assume the worst in everybody” seems to be the motto of many of those on the court of Trellheim nowadays, so I guess I shouldn’t be surprised.

How does Naerfin get away with it? Since he’s been magistrate, he (1) gave an order allowing anyone to kill Fist members without a trial (Hey, didn’t Justice get his title removed for something like that?), (2) authored a writ allowing a thief to steal from a wealthy merchant’s home; and (3) allowed some of his fellow McEwans to kill some hoblings with no punishment. Well, I hear he might actually do something about the last one, so maybe I’m speaking too soon. On the other hand, his “confiscation” of the magical sword Kinslayer (which apparently is intelligent and tries to get its weilder to kill certain races) from Robert Oakwood against his will has angered the Duke Bryan so much that Naerfin has been banished from the Manor House.

And speaking of Justice, I have heard that the Duke is so upset at him for not showing any remorse and for criticizing His Grace and Dame Mara instead of attempting to clear his own name that he has vowed that Justice will get his title back “when the Elemental Plane of Fire freezes over.” Justice has also apparently gone back in time, as he is claiming “credit” for the Duchess’ resignation, even though she resigned weeks before Justice ever made his claims.

Meanwhile, the Paladins (Ivan, Faustus and Kittery) seem to be taking a harder stance about this whole Trellheim thing than His Grace himself. They think the Duke is being too kind to Morgan Blackbourne and those who continue to be convinced of his innocence. (Shades of Alaric Dragonhart!)

Justice and Trellheim were the subject of debate in the Dragon’s Flagon recently when Royal Justicar Sir Cedrick Hampton appeared and spoke to those in attendance. Sir Radric was there trying to mend fences and improve the image of his barony—er, military district. Yngvar was heard saying that he didn’t understand why Trellheim was unliked by the commoners, and Quentin snidely replied that it was a shame that the members of Trellheim “get stereotyped simply because of the people they choose to follow and obey.”

The biggest surprise was when some of the local biata (led by Zatarina, Selina and Kelsea) said that it would help relations tremendously if Trellheim would destroy the magical sword Slavetamer which has biata writing which says something about enslaving and killing all biata. “It’s bad enough that we have to constantly see a symbol of our race’s subjugation,” the biata stated, “but to have it in the hands of a noble team which recently ordered our deaths is doubly insulting.” Sir Radric agreed and said that he would have the sword destroyed to which he was lauded by Sir Cedrick. However, Slavetamer’s current owner Morgan Sunstar was astounded and kept saying “Can someone tell me what just happened here?”

Selina and Drakonis the wild elf meanwhile were having a joking debate entitled “My people are more oppressed than yours.” You should have seen the feathers fly! (Oops, sorry).

Tara the Sarr has been spending an awful lot of time recently secluded away with Gemma the Dark Elf. . . Anyone wanna guess why he’s all scratched up? Gemma wasn’t the only one bearing clawmarks, though. . .Voltreg the barbarian and Garnaralf the Sarr shared scratching post duties for Tara, and Perplexicaticus was often off with Sadya the Sarr. Just what is this newfound attraction to fuzzies?

Speaking about barbarians, how about that Cormac fellow? Is he itching to get that Kadorr award or did he just figure he had to go through with that heroic circle thing once asked by a noble?

As death threats and other complaints continue to rage against Daphne Greene, the latest news is that her superior Lady Eleanor Tuttle is taking a very personal in interest in Ashbury. . .

Findrago the gypsy recently celebrated a birthday, and his favorite present had to be the one given to him by the Mystic Wood Elf Kareena, but it must have been a very big present because when they went upstairs to his room to open it, they were there the entire night!

That’s all for this month. Remember to send me your News They Don’t Want You To Know, and until next time, remember—If you can’t say something nice about someone, come sit by me.

Letter to the Editor

Contrary to popular belief by the commoners of Ashbury, the nobles of our fair Duchy are not all power hungry scum. This comment is heard far too often in the capital city of Ashbury. This comment is made because some of the commoners feel that the nobles are “out to get them.” This is not true. Some people of the Duchy may have gripes against others and a few of these people have noble title. This occurrence does not necessarily mean that all nobles are out to get commoners. It means two people have a problem to resolve and if that nobles does not have just cause for the actions he may take to resolve the conflict he will be punished more harshly than the commoner would.

This is the way of the laws and the Code that a noble must live by. The Code of Chivalry is more than a bunch of rules written on a piece of parchment. Instead it is the very core of the beliefs that all who would be nobles must live their lives by. If a noble is found to have violated that Code then they will lose their title but also much honor and respect from their peers. This in and of itself may not sound severs, but I say to you as a noble of the Duchy and an elder as the Council of Elves of Ashbury that my life is not worth living without the honor and virtue that I hold most dear in my heart. I am quite sure that I speak for all nobles in this matter, We are here and in the positions we are in because we hold the lives we have been entrusted with above our own. “For honor, righteousness, and the people” is our battle cry. Ours is a life of service to the people of our Duchy. We are the nobles of Ashbury.

Sir Balynthalis Wellbringer Aldaron

Public Notices

SIR IVAN DRAKE and Killian Drake would like to thank all those who donated to the Drake Technical School for Wayward Children lottery. Congratulations to the winners: Sir Faustus Neumacht and Azreal. In addition, we would like to offer a special thanks to Sheriff Dugal for his generous donation. On behalf of the orphanage, we thank you all.

GUILD MEMBERS: Although I have resigned from the Ashbury Mages’ Guild, I must thank Guildmistress Shalizar and the Senior Guildsmen for their wisdom and patience. I consider myself fortunate to be guided by scholars so adept in the Celestial Arts and willing to accept a warrior within their ranks. However, my first oath will always remain to the Code of Chivalry, never will I swear allegiance to another order until my vow is broken. I must serve the Crown before I consider wearing my own at anothers expense. – Sir Radric Hellfax

DAME SONYA DAWNTREADER of Nordenn, Lady of Easton and Rodyn, is pleased to announce the borth of her son Lord Caspian Angus Dawntreader on the 6th of September, 596

HEALERS OF ASHBURY: Thank you for all of your aid during the Ambassador’s and my battle with the Dom Ghassab; you will not be soon forgotten. – Rasq

SIR BALYNTHALIS: Never have I met an individual who accepted and gave to a stranger more readily than you. Your aid was instrumental in my success and well being. – Dreycloak Minninman

ME NOT KOBOLD! – Aerryl the red faced barbarian

ASHBURY REGISTRY OF TEACHERS. Referrals for a wide range of skills. Discretion assured. Teachers: get students without spending all your time recruiting. See Prof. Turlough Kuranes.

ORANGE AND PURPLE sponges and perfect red gemstones and black pearls, oh my! Seek Maximus.

THE KITCHEN of the Dragon’s Flagon is for the cook only! Anyone who places items in the cold storage will find that the items will be removed or eaten by our patrons! We have been accomodating in the past, but recent abuses have led to this stricter policy. I

WOULD LIKE TO EXTEND my most sincere thanks to those commoners who assisted in the defeat of the Dom Ghassab. Without your skill and bravery, many sarr would have died. Again I thank you – Aravis Shahruud

I, SQUIRE KIT WATERWISE of Trellheim, would like to correct an error made in the July edition of the Ashbury Times. On the behalf of Captain Alex Dumas and the others in our squadron, the group referred to as the “Shattered Dragons” were in fact called the “Shadow Dragons.” Thank you.

DARK LORD: My Guild members and their allies have conquered two of your Twilight lords, killed many of your barbarian fodder and routed out your Celestial stool pigeon. I have many Task worthy mages waiting to prove themselves at your expense, but you have only five lords left. – Celestial *itch

SPICE: You’ve done it now. – S.K.

BONATIFCA! The Baljar Gypsy Tribe vould like to inwite all our Romani couzins to a Waymeet in Axleburg, Volta! Dis Waymeet vill be from October 11 - 14, 596. Dose a you who hawe met us in Rawenholt know vhat fun dat it vill be! Come an join us aroun de fire in de home a de Banoteristi! Let de fiddles play, de scarves dance, and de stories flow like hootch from de bottle! Yours in Blood, Stack-O-Lee MacHine Baljar

HAIL, QUEEN BARACUS! – F.W.

SURELY, had I received a gift of cups, I would remember. . .so who is the lying coward that uses my name? – The real Opposite of Conscience, Trellheim Flygirl, XSquire Corrine DuFore.

I WILL PAY very well for self-sacrificing bodyguards. Your lives will be in danger protecting those who have evidence and information. Contact Zatarina Norvick

FREE DETECT MAGICS cast at the Ashbury Mages’ Guild every hour on the half hour during Guild hours. (Listen for the bell). Hours are noon - 6 pm and 8 pm - midnight. Also: Magic items Identified, Ritual Components researched, scrolls bought and sold, and Rituals cast. Hot tea and cocoa for our chilled customers.

ASHBANS: Thank you for your help in defeating the Dom Ghassab. – Tara

DEAR LADIES OF ASHBURY: Findrago would just like to say that in all my travels I have found no lands that have women as elegant or as lovely as Ashbury. The finest roses bloom in this duchy.

SLICK: Creative, very creative.

GRANDIN LAMOORE : My gratitude I cannot express. The use of the Dragon Mage Sword proved to me that Celestial Casters are not all that bad. – Dreycloak Minninman

BUG IN AMBER component wanted. – Zatarina Norvick

THE ASHBURY MAGES’ GUILD would like to congratulate the following promotion to Guildsman: Tatiana Verakoznie, Barony of the Ash Forest