AMIA ARCHIVE • View topic - Diplomacy's Game Continues: Blood and Rebirth

For the first time in too long, a slow, simmering heat builds behind Braham's eyes as he reads Eli Hodgewall's proclamation. Not only is the administration's decision misguided, it is also extremely dismissive. Even though his mind races and tells him that he is feeling pettiness, and might actually be hurt that his offers were so handily shoved aside, the black balm of his faith reminds him that such moments are fleeting. He siezes the moment and pens a simple letter to the Acting Speaker Xee.

After several hours of work Grim, the Keeper of Tarkuul sits inside Igor’s building. Sprinkling some ash and bone-dust over the multitude of names recorded in his tome to let the ink dry. He knows there are many more hours of work ahead of him before all the dead are scribed and given a proper burial.

As the High Captain had remained dauntless in his task in West Cordor so will he with his work on Moribund.

The dead had so far been given the proper ritual according to Waukeen. Coins had been placed over the eyes and those buried in a single grave, were accompanied by a sum of their gold. For those many without any living relatives, the bodies would be placed on a barge by the water, to later be sent off to sea as he had been told was their custom.
Just as warriors feel at home on a battlefield he had found the crypts of Moribund familiar to some degree. The skull brazier at the entrance was a nice décor he thought while pacing the hallways, turning what restless unliving dwelled in there. Striving for order in death it was seen to by him that those with the bond of blood would be laid to rest together down in the crypts.

The wills of the deceased were neatly organized for Igor to send out as he had time to do it and as the ink dried in his tome, he picked it up and left the building. To endlessly toil until all were accounted for and scribed into his tome, in the name of his lord; Jergal, the protector of the names of the dead.

"This city is a giant bomb. And I won't let you set it off with your blood while my men inside."

The High Captain stood in western Cordor, between Hodgewall and a mob of angry, armed citizens in Western Cordor. He knew that they weren't going to listen to reason. They were angry, idealistic and ready to die.

If you start killing here, you won't see a single ounce of the food we've brought. I am not here to fight your war, and I won't be playing party to the Arcanum's magic.

That seemed to give Ivan's men pause... but only for a moment, stirred on by emotion and hate. Things were on the verge of getting bloody, and the Living Guard was standing right in the middle of it. But then... something foolish happened... so foolish it was brilliant! The Terrorist Richard Johnson showing his face in the west directed absolutely all of the people's ire toward him. As they seemed at their most ready to strike, he fled the scene maintaining minimal wounds. Afterward it was mutually agreed by all parties in Cordor that Richard would hang if he were to return. A bloodless death, to which the High Captain of Tarkuul did not object.

After that the Guard relocated to Moribund, from where they would distribute supplies to every district in Cordor and guard over the Keeper while he gave the dead their proper rites and went to work cleansing the graveyard. It would seem that the Living City was out and about in Cordor that night.

Adela keeps on her work on cooking at the Chapel of Lathander offering meals for those in need.

Last edited by ShadowRayne on Mon, Oct 21 2013, 3:56 AM, edited 1 time in total.

Silent as a Shadow he moved through the back alleys of Cordor, watching the assembled of Tarkuul march towards their destination to deliver the supplies.
The shadow watched quietly for a while before slipping back and stringing up a nearly invisible trip-wire across an alleyway nearby, rigging the Alley to explode in a sudden eruption of sound and force when it's tripped.
The figure left the Alleyway behind and watched from a distance.... several minutes later as the last box of supplies was set down a thunderous crack resounded from the Alleyway and the Trap exploded as one of the Living Guard tripped it.
The figure grinned then stalked back through the city, looping out and around the people who were now moving to see what the sudden disruption was.

It slid up along the side of the Commonwealth building and quietly listened to the talk. After a few minutes he judged the timing right and hearing some children beginning singing in the streets, the figure strung up another trap. Stretching another unseen wire across the path from the Commonwealth building to the Market Hall, concealing a device against the wall of the Commonwealth building. Then moving away and making his way silently and unseen from the City.

The children's singing continued for a while, the anthem of Cordor ringing out of their tiny mouths happily until it was disrupted by the screams. Screams so full of pain and agony that all singing died away.
Three commoners suddenly struck by several blasts of lightning lay crumpled and burned on the path outside the Commonwealth center, still smoking.. their children screaming in agony, loss and pain.
Meanwhile, the Shadowed figure moved about the Amian forest walking easily before stopping beside the road to eat and have a drink. A few minutes later a Woman in cheessentan gladiatorial armor, muttering about Terrorists in Cordor and a Triple Murder. Which caused the shadow to smile....

// Edit: Edited the first part with the first trap, it was set off by someone else.

Crow is seen more often through Cordor North, and East. He heads directly to the Chapel of Lathander. More often than not, to help Adela. When he is done, he usually wastes little time in leaving the city.

Depending on the method of delivery, those writing letters to Xaviera, the Acting Speaker and Minister of Health and Public Welfare, might or might not be made aware that she remains imprisoned in the Cordor jail awaiting trial for alleged crimes against the Commonwealth and its people.

Last edited by Elorathall on Mon, Oct 21 2013, 21:23 PM, edited 1 time in total.

Across the span of an hour or so, printed notices are placed up by the easily recognized Sunmaster on various noticeboards throughout all districts of the city - and within a day or two the notices likewise find their way to Guldorand. In many public places, such as markets, Marcus steps up to read the contents of the notice to the crowd, before placing copies up.

Quote:
Citizens and visitors of the Commonwealth,

We hereby declare ourselves gathered and united into the Citizen’s Tribunal, to once and for all end the current division of the Commonwealth and all Citizens through means of law and impartial, fair judgement. Through this undertaking, we rise to bring an end to the strife, suffering and death that has plagued our lives too many days, and restore peace and hope for a greater and brighter dawn once more.

We hereby declare the Citizen’s Tribunal to hold the three following objectives:

1. To oversee and judge by impartial and fair trial by law of the Commonwealth all individuals charged with high crimes against the Commonwealth.

2. To oversee and administer by impartial and fair means a popular referendum on the establishment of the Foundation of the Commonwealth, of which the outcome will confirm or deny the legitimacy of the Foundation of the Commonwealth as a valid and legal document of law and governance of the Commonwealth.

3. To oversee and administer by impartial and fair means general popular elections for the Council of the Commonwealth, while the Foundation has been approved by popular referendum, or the Council of Ministers of the Provisional Government of the Commonwealth, while the Foundation has not been approved by popular referendum.

Furthermore,

We hereby call all Citizens of the Commonwealth to support and validate the Citizen’s Tribunal's actions and judgements as that of a politically neutral entity, empowered to abjure the current civil division and unrest through impartial means of law. We further call all Citizens of the Commonwealth, be they Guardsmen, Scouts, Law Knights or others of all districts to support the proceedings of the Citizen’s Tribunal and facilitate a return to general peace and order.

Furthermore,

We hereby declare to relinquish the established mandate and all associated authority upon the completion of all three objectives of the Citizen’s Tribunal.

Furthermore,

We hereby appoint Marcus Aurelius, Sunmaster of Amaunator (Keeper of Law, Keeper of the Eternal Sun, Lathander Morninglord) as field representative and legal advisor of the Citizen’s Tribunal.

Signed,

Jacho Borimus
Franton
Tristina of Waukeen
Dawnmaster Redweth
Hil’Rash
Captain Reynolds
Ser Hector Godric

Signed in support,

Marcus Aurelius

Many of the notices find themselves vandalized.

Elorathall wrote:

Ser Hector Godric

Signed in support,

Marcus Aurelius

This here is proof, citizens of Cordor, that even our alleged Law Advisor is working with NOBLES who work together with the HARPERS to enslave us into what THEY think is better for us by forcing their tyrannical laws upon us! Stand up against this tyranny and fight for our own freedom! For Cordor! For the Commonwealth!

The vandalism goes unsigned.

As Marcus regularly moves trough the city and Guldorand, any vandalized or taken notes are soon replaced again by other printed copies. In the event that he is questioned on the vandalism, his response is fairly short.
"Pay no heed to this meaningless rabble-rousing by anonymous and cowardly adventurers and outsiders, who would take pleasure in seeing us tear our Commonwealth apart and leave us at their mercy. Ser Hector Godric is one of our dedicated Law Knights, who represents their number on the Tribunal, and I certainly have and never had any intention of doing the bidding of Harpers or other anarchists.

*A Young bald woman would spend more and more time in Cordor North, especially around the idol of Chauntea and with the various farmers whom she supplied with high quality farming equipment on occasion.

She seems to have taken it upon herself to tend to Chauntea's idol and visits it daily at the least, cleaning it if need be and tending to the flowers around it. Allways planting a small flower near it whenever she visits the first time on a given day.

When she is around she enjoys talking to the farmers, assisting them on the fields if needed or even if allowed to. She always asks for news and their opinions on matters related to the commonwealth.

If asked her own opinion by a farmer or resident of Cordor North she seems to be highly sceptical of anyone declaring themselves anything without an election and that includes the announcement from Marcus and friends.*

Eli merely smirks reading the vandalism and responses. If asked for a reaction about who is on the Tribunal, he simply states:

"As one of the accused awaiting trial, it is not my place to question the stature or standing of the judges unless, of course, the majority of the people of the Commonwealth do."

Beyond that, he simply works with every party giving aid to Cordor, making sure that -all- districts (including West) receive their share of the given support.

With the last of the orphans or displaced children evacuated from the Academy, it now sits empty like the Orphanage, aside from its guard. However, a new notice appears on its front door, reading simply:

"REOPENING FOR FREE MEALS. DOORS OPEN:

BREAKFAST: 8-10
SUPPER: 19-21

ALMOST ALL ARE WELCOME*

*Agents of Tarkuul not allowed."

Elorathall wrote:

Across the span of an hour or so, printed notices are placed up by the easily recognized Sunmaster on various noticeboards throughout all districts of the city - and within a day or two the notices likewise find their way to Guldorand. In many public places, such as markets, Marcus steps up to read the contents of the notice to the crowd, before placing copies up.

*An attached list is placed upon several spots around town*

Jacho Borimus -Guldorand
Franton - East District
Tristina of Waukeen - East District
Dawnmaster Redweth - East District?
Hil’Rash - East District
Captain Reynolds - Guard (South)
Ser Hector Godric - Noble
Marcus - Guard (South)

....who do they think they're kidding? 'Fair'? 'Unbiased?' .... no one from the West, no one from the North, no one from Central. It's just Guards, East District, Nobles, and maybe -one- decent representative from Guldorand.

What a farce! Don't fall for the noble ploy! You won't get justice with those jury members!

*The notice is also unsigned*

Just like any other anonymous rants, the notes are taken down when discovered - and dismissed as the "ravings of anarchist adventurers and outsiders, who would only benefit from a continuation of the city's suffering".

Elorathall wrote:

Just like any other anonymous rants, the notes are taken down when discovered - and dismissed as the "ravings of anarchist adventurers and outsiders, who would only benefit from a continuation of the city's suffering".

*At the response of seeing some of them taken down, he places more up, some in more inconspicuous places, the backsides of doors, under chairs, bathroom stalls, wayyyy up high on a light-pole or two, and some even in the sewers. The area of heaviest concentration is the West District*

Alkor wrote:

Elorathall wrote:

Across the span of an hour or so, printed notices are placed up by the easily recognized Sunmaster on various noticeboards throughout all districts of the city - and within a day or two the notices likewise find their way to Guldorand. In many public places, such as markets, Marcus steps up to read the contents of the notice to the crowd, before placing copies up.

*An attached list is placed upon several spots around town*

Jacho Borimus -Guldorand
Franton - East District
Tristina of Waukeen - East District
Dawnmaster Redweth - East District?
Hil’Rash - East District
Captain Reynolds - Guard (South)
Ser Hector Godric - Noble
Marcus - Guard (South)

....who do they think they're kidding? 'Fair'? 'Unbiased?' .... no one from the West, no one from the North, no one from Central. It's just Guards, East District, Nobles, and maybe -one- decent representative from Guldorand.

What a farce! Don't fall for the noble ploy! You won't get justice with those jury members!

*The notice is also unsigned*

A few copies of the note are made and delivered alongside Tarkuul's food shipments from the camp at Moribund to locations overseen by the western militia. Most have added to them:

'They're taking these down, but it's relevant.'
~Regards from the Living Guard.

DustSpray101 wrote:

Furthermore, no visiting parties are permitted entry to the Commonwealth Center, where all voting for the new Government will be held, nor will any activity toward meddling in Commonwealth politics be tolerated.

"... As expected, The Unliving City has once again overstepped its bounds and proven itself unreliable and driven to corrupt and violate any and all agreements."

Throughout the late evening hours... a publication from the Clarion goes out... starting from West, but quickly spreading to Central, then East, then North. A few tattered copies can be found in South, posted publicly.

CLARION OF THE COMMONWEALTH, by Bill Hurst wrote:

Murder in our homes!

It is the sad, but unfortunate duty of the Clarion to announce the death of Gilroy Reed, first class clerk of the ministry of Law. He was brutally murdered in his home, along with his friends and protectors, by none other than the TERRORIST Richard Halifax Johnson! But if this wasn't enough, dear readers, to be under the thumb of the TERRORIST that murdered Arwen, that he was aided in this brutal, lawless task, by none other than the TRAITOR Eli Hodgewall and the HARPER Andrew Fryar, who is married to a NOBLE. Our ministers, turned against us so! That they would deal with not only HARPERS and NOBLES who invade us and work against everything the commonwealth stands for, but work with TERRORISTS as well? Good people of Cordor, for how long has this TERRORIST bent the ears of the leaders who now stand against us? TERRORISTS who have brought violence and murder to our doorsteps!

It is also our sad duty to say, that three people were murdered right by the city hall as minister Hodgewall was giving a speech! And what's more, the TERRORIST Richard Johnson was on the scene! Minister Hodgewall, how could you let this TERRORIST murder our citizens with impunity! Minister Xee even said he was not to return, on pain of death! Why is it then, that they have continued to work with this murderous TERRORIST! Our ministers have betrayed us all indeed!

A friend of the commonwealth steps forth!

But yet even amidst this all, the Commonwealth receives aid! For the city state of Tarkuul has delivered aid to our doorsteps in our dark, time of need. What aid, do you ask? Delicious, delicious mushrooms! I know dear readers, that this may sound like an odd form of cuisine, but I was among the first to sample these. And let me tell you, dear readers, that these are among the best mushrooms I have had the delight of tasting! They were rich, delightful, filling, and flavorful indeed! I believe I speak for all the hungry souls of Cordor who thank Tarkuul for bringing us these delicious morsels as a show of good will from one city to another! It brings comfort to us all to know that our city states can work with mutual understanding and respect, unlike the NOBLES of Kohlingen who would bring violence to our doorstep in an attempt to force themselves to rule over us once again!

Dear readers, we live in dark times indeed, but should we stand together, strong and united under the commonwealth, we can prevail!

The responses to the flurry of recent events is yet to be fully measured, but activity is still abound throughout Cordor,... the citizens perhaps feeling overwhelmed from many of the recent developments. Uncertainty boils still...

A response to the latest published article by the Clarion comes swiftly from Andrew. This newsletter is left in fairly large quantities the Nomad. the Long and Short, The Theater and most other public gathering places in Cordor. A few are left in the Commonwealth Center. A few even find their way to Guldorand.

REED AND THE MINISTRY OF LAW

I addressed a bit about this in my last newsletter in regards to the push into West Cordor for the attempted arrest of former Secretary Mover and the late Clerk Reed. This section is mostly in response to Mr. Hurst, who is wanted for tax related criminal activity, and his latest publication. He alleges that Clerk Reed was killed – this is, to my knowledge, true though I was not involved with the death. Reed, much like Mover and Hurst, should have been placed under arrest so they could be brought to trial. Hurst forgets that Mover and Reed are not only wanted for affiliation with the Arcanum (which there is solid evidence of), but also for declaring Mover a minister without any kind of legal authority or popular vote of the city – a blatant act of sedition. Let's not forget that Mover, Reed and their ministry of Law was the same that sought to punish watch-dogging, routinely broke the rules of due process, covered up murders and the evidence/trial of the Arcanum in a veil of bureaucratic ribbon and was ultimately censured by the late Speaker Maximilian so he could investigate corruption within the Ministry.

When the late Speaker was assassinated in full view of the people of Cordor East, with his last breath, he declared the Arcanum enemies of the state. Mover has been complicit with the Arcanum for who knows how long - I have published such evidence and reason in these newsletters. Hurst and the remnant Ministry of Law have proven to care nothing for the evidence and would instead throw out baseless accusations and buzzwords in all capital letters, such as 'NOBLE' and 'HARPER' (of which Mover or the Ministry of Law never attempted to arrest me for during their time as legitimate members of the Ministry of Law). Instead, my wife, who is a former noble who renounced her family ties and was cleared for release by the former secretary Mover himself, had been placed under arrest without charge or any kind of trial for a month. What about the mysterious murders of innocent families in West that were only investigated by the late Lt. Hole? Or the disappearance of the dockworker, Cole, who the Ministry of Law has never answered for? Or guards who would threaten non-humans and turn a blind eye while they were lynched? This is not the makings of a regime that supports the people.

A Journalist requires exactly two things to get started: A commitment to truth and the ability to write. Hurst has only one of these, and he is clearly literate. Instead, like Penn E. Pincer, he has garbed himself in finery and fattened himself on food.

TARKUUL

Tarkuul has accepted Eli Hodgwall's invitation to provide aid to Cordor. I will reprint my story on Archmage Mherun Xilphas of the Council of Tarkuul. It was written in response to him denouncing the Arcanum for corruption – this part I did not take umbrage with. Rather, I took offense with the implication such a man would care for Cordor from a selfless point of view.

Quote:

People have no doubt seen the article by a member of the Council of Tarkuul by the name of Mherun Xilphas. That last name is an anagram for Silphax. Who is Silphax? Jane Silphax was a resident of Waterdeep who came to Amia to find her sister, a resident of Kohlingen. Even so, she dedicated her time to various causes around the island, including helping former High Priestess of Sune Kaytie in regards to our own Temple of Love. It was soon discovered she was pregnant and that the child was magical and growing swiftly.

She was kidnapped in Tarkuul by a man known as Luca and one of his associates, and brought to the City of Shade. Yes, of ancient Netheril. I was among the people Jane requested visit her in the final days of her pregnancy. On the date of the birthing, I was brought there to the place where the remnants kept her prisoner, along with Kaytie, Corinn and Richard Johnson. I had snuck a portal wand into my boot with the intention of helping Jane escape since, as you can guess, she hated it there. We were told the child was the reborn Mherun, a great Netherese mage.

The birthing was horrific. When the child was born, Jane more or less exploded and was absorbed by the child. Soon, it began draining everyone else in the house, killing all of the guards, and nearly draining myself and the other visitors. I was just able to trigger my portal wand before I fell into unconsciousness. The rebirth and rapid regrowth of Mherun Xilphas, of the Council of Tarkuul, was powered in a blood ritual. A blood ritual fueled primarily by his innocent 'mother'.

For these reasons, I, the Academy and its staff will be refusing any aid from Tarkuul. I do wonder, however: why is Hurst so eager to praise Tarkuul?

TRIBUNAL

Several citizens of Cordor have formed a tribunal to oversee a vote on the Foundation, the election and the trials of high crime. This seems to have the blessings Eli Hodgwall and Xaviera Xee, who have agreed to submit to trial by the tribunal. The tribunal consists of:

Jacho Borimus of Guldorand
Clerk Franton
Tristina of Waukeen
Dawnmaster Redweth of Lathander
Hil’Rash
Captain Reynolds
Ser Hector Godric, Knight of the Law

Lieutenant Marcus Aurelius supports them as a field representative and legal advisor. The Tribunal has three stated goals:

"1. To oversee and judge by impartial and fair trial by law of the Commonwealth all individuals charged with high crimes against the Commonwealth.

2. To oversee and administer by impartial and fair means a popular referendum on the establishment of the Foundation of the Commonwealth, of which the outcome will confirm or deny the legitimacy of the Foundation of the Commonwealth as a valid and legal document of law and governance of the Commonwealth.

3. To oversee and administer by impartial and fair means general popular elections for the Council of the Commonwealth, while the Foundation has been approved by popular referendum, or the Council of Ministers of the Provisional Government of the Commonwealth, while the Foundation has not been approved by popular referendum." (quoted from their own release)

Upon completion of which, they promise to disband. Reception to the tribunal seems mixed across the city.

FREE MEALS AND BEDS

The Blue Skies Academy of Cordor is pleased to re-open its doors for free breakfast and dinner for any one who needs a warm meal. Breakfast will be served from 8 to 10 hour and supper will be served 19 to 21 hour. Meals vary from day today, but are balanced to provide vegetables and meat with fruit for dessert and occasionally sweet pastries.

Due to the temporary relocation/evacuation of the Academy's students and the orphanage, the Academy will begin offering free shelter for those in need until the Commonwealth stabilizes. There are limited beds and it is on a first come-first serve basis. Please contact Andrew Fryar to apply.

BUDGET

6,000 coin has been taken out of the Academy's funds to commission a large wagon and purchase two oxen. This vehicle, The Blue Sky Ship, will be used for transporting students on field trips and to transport students in Guldorand and across the city from the Academy to the building on a daily basis when school is in session.

Two letters, very different in composition and method of delivery, would leave the foreboding streets of the Living City that night, bound for Cordor.

*-*-*-*-*

The first would be carried by a man possessing of a "jolly" appearance, a rounded paunch covered by simple pants and shirt akin to those found on any working, common man of the realms. However the faint stains of various cooking oils and flecks of spices, as well as the plethora of aromas which cling to his oily hair and skin, would mark him to most as the cook that he is. Though he takes the road leading to the northern gate of Cordor to avoid whatever plague might linger near the Delta (if the rumors are even true), he makes his way through the streets to the Western district soon enough.

Stopping the first official-looking individual he might find, he would greet them cordially (if in his usual rough'n'tumble accented Common) and ask that the rolled bit of parchment find its way to Mister Hurst, courtesy of the creator of those truly delicious mushrooms, Chef Marigath. With his message delivered, he would take the next gondola to Moribund and would surprise the Living Guard on duty there with a delightful treat of some of the "home cooked" fish that he proudly proclaims to have caught himself that very day. "It were this big when I pulled it out'o'the water!"

Should the letter find its intended recipient, Hurst would find himself in possession of Marigath's very own recipe for Ripplebark Pie.

((All OOC credit actually goes to Bini for creating the recipe))

Quote:

Crust:

2 1/2 units of Blue Cap spore flour
1/8 unit of sugar
1/192 unit salt
21/16 unit cold butter, broken into small pieces
1/2 unit frigid water

Measure the Blue Cap flour, sugar and salt together, stir to combine.
Add the chilled butter pieces to the bowl. Cut them in with a pastry cutter or knife, be mindful not to over mix them.
Add the frigid water. Mix until the dough holds together (employ additional frigid water, if necessary).
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, knead it together, then divide in half.
Flatten each half into a disk, utilize a Prestidigitation to aid the dough in retaining its moisture and chill for half an hour.
Roll out one of the disks on a lightly floured surface until you have a circle that's about one standardized measuring unit in diameter.
Put the circle in a 3/4 standardized measuring unit pie plate, trimming any extra dough from the edges with a sharp knife. Return it to the refrigerator until you are ready to make the pie.
Add the filling evenly as detailed in the 'filling' section.
Roll out the second ball of dough and cover top. Use your fingers to pinch the edges together then cut a couple slits in the top.

Filling:

1/3 to 2/3 unit sugar
1/4 unit Blue Cap spore flour
1/96 unit ground nutmeg
1/96 unit ground cinnamon
A mere pinch of salt
8 portions of the fruiting body of a Ripplebark mushroom (a medium portion amounts to approximately 1 unit)
1/8 units butter

Heat oven until the thermometer within has reached the etching denoting 425 thermal units. It is imperative this temperature is maintained.
Was and slice the Ripplebark mushrooms, being sure to keep the slices approximately equal.
Mix sugar, flour, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt in large bowl.
Stir in Ripplebark slices.
Pour into the pastry-lined pie plate as detailed in the 'crust' section.

Baking:

Bake for 2 score minutes to 2 1/2 score or until crust is brown and juice begins to bubble through slits in crust. Remove from oven and let cool for at least a score of minutes before serving. If the pie has cooled by the time of service and it is desired warm, utilize a Prestidigitation. Serve on clean plates with clean cutlery.

*-*-*-*-*

The second letter would arrive at its intended destination much more quickly, an almost signature pile of greyish powder sitting directly in front of the Academy door. The letter would be sealed in a uniquely ornate tube of wrought iron filigree and though it bore no seal, the intended recipient - marked as one Andrew Fryar - would almost assuredly be able to guess from whence it came.

Should anyone deign to "pop the top" they would find an intriguing letter inside...

After some of the graffiti is brought to his attention, Eli pens an open letter to Ivan and passes it out at the entry way to the West, "West Occupied" Central, and on Moribund.

Mister Ivan,
It has come to my attention that the interests of the West are not wholly represented on the Citizen's Tribunal. I invite you to seek out Mister Marcus immediately and see that a representative of West District receives a chair as well. I personally will protest the trial until all districts and provinces are represented, but, I cannot stall the proceedings.

Your fellow citizen,
~Eli Hodgewall

Said letter container is picked up by Andrew, though it remains unopened and its seal unbroken.

Dawn seemingly not paying much attention to the city around her, possibly in shock from recent events since apparently Xee went along with Tarkuul instead of what was a previously understood agreement, carries a letter for Xavi then sets off to have it delivered as already arranged. Whilst looking to get it delivered Dawn asks about Xee and how she's been doing lately since last time she saw her she wasn't in the best of shape.

The Keeper of the Crypts frequents Cordor central and Moribund after his invitation. He can be seen walking between the market hall and then back to Moribund to continue his work several times per day.

The midnight oil burns fiercely night after night from a locked office in the government building where one redhead seldom leaves--her mail goes unanswered, as are knocks on the door. Some may speculate that the woman inside may be dead, until she is spotted getting water at a fountain, or boiling some coffee, or receiving takeout in the lobby or browsing heavy bound books stashed away in the basement, or a crawl space, or some attic, or in some closet of the Records Building. She certainly puts the clerks to work and keeps them busy and employed, which she herself lives on as a recluse and ghost of the government building, nearly always behind a locked door.

Deep beneath Cordor brewed a battle few would even hear whispers of.

Their enemies seemed omnipresent as they swarmed over the group. The elf switched rapidly between bow and blades as the tides shifted around him, engaged in furious battle. They were not yet challenged, but the threat was so vast it could have overwhelm them regardless. He dashed forward to cut a divide through a breach in their lines, trusting his skills to preserve him - it would have been enough. He heard the sound of crumbling rock and felt the instinct to dash out of the way - panic and confusion overwhelmed him for a precious few seconds before his head was struck hard and, for a time, all was dark and silent.

He jolted awake, aching all over, though he yet sensed only darkness and silence beyond the pain. "...What... happened?" he choked out, but there was no reply. Wherever he was, he was alone. He was able to rise to a crouching position, his blades mercifully close - at least he could defend himself, if the threat was not yet vanquished. In that peace of brief respite, he thought back to what had come before - the place, the melee, the groan of earth as it churned. He'd been separated from his allies - that thought struck him quickly, and terror with it. He feared for their safety, but also for his own. He quickly secured the worst of his injuries with bandages, and set about a swift exploration of his surroundings. The tunnels were unfamiliar, but the air felt the same - stale, dusty. He had not gone far. But no matter how much he strained his ears, there was nothing but silence. Whatever the fate of his companions, he could only worry for himself.

Slowly but surely he would set about the task of extracting himself from the unstable underground, doing his best to ignore the growing sense of unease at being so confined - it would suffocate him, if he allowed it. But survival did not seem to be a great threat - all he needed was time, and it seemed for once to be on his side.

Velden could only hope that the same could be said for his allies.

At the end of the night a dim light was lit from the Seven Stars Academy tower, it seemed to shine out in the night both as lighthouse and as vigil.

The next day, a small group of unlikely adventurers portal out of Kohlingen in broad day with two tall tick-tock beings with hourglasses for faces. They return to the gates a few hours later, covered in blood. The tick-tock beings are not in their company.

A letter from prison wrote:

To the People of Cordor and the Commonwealth,

It saddens me greatly to hear that the strife between the Western district and the remainder of the city continues and that, because of it, food is not reaching those who desperately need it. We have suffered great losses in recent weeks and I pray that all citizens will see the importance of putting aside their differences and working together to help each other rather than supporting violence on behalf those who pursue individual power and wealth without concern for colleagues, neighbours and loved ones. It was to promote peace and love that I established the Temple many years ago, in the hope that Amia would turn away from greed, violence and hatred, but it appears that, in this, at least, I have failed.

The people of Cordor have always faced troubled times together and bent their backs to shoulder heavy loads in support of each other; I urge you now to act as you always have, to take down your barricades and turn your strength to helping those who need it most. Our city will not long survive if it remains divided; if we cannot work together then I am compelled to predict the very destruction of Cordor itself - not at the blood-soaked hands of the Arcanum and the criminals in league with them, as I had long feared, but at the hands of our own. You are people, not beasts, and I implore you not to turn upon each other, but to find peace in the common cause of healing and love.

To this end, and most importantly, I urge the people to accept the authority of the Tribunal of prominent citizens and clerics that has been formed to judge the truth of the accusations and counter-accusations made these last few weeks, and to abide by their rulings, in order that the madness that has turned neighbour against neighbour may soon be brought to an end. If this is not to your liking, then let each district choose one of its own as a representative. Regardless, it is essential that the trials be conducted as soon as possible so that the wounds that scourge our Commonwealth can be healed and that we can move forward together once again. I remain firm in my commitment to the welfare of the people of Cordor and it is for this reason and this reason alone that I await the judgement of the people to be pronounced upon me for my actions as Councillor of the Commonwealth. I pledge, myself, to accept their judgement, and I call on all those others who will stand trial with me to commit to this as well. Naturally, I hope to be vindicated but, if the Tribunal should happen to decide against me, I will pray that the city is thereby healed and that at least some good will therefore come of my own loss.

I ask you all to do what is best for the city as a whole, not just for yourselves. Speak out in support of the trials and the Tribunal; open your ears to the facts that are revealed and your hearts to what those facts say about the motivations of those who face judgement. The future of Cordor is in your hands now - you hold a precious gift, and I pray that you will not squander it to satisfy the desires of evil and power-hungry men, but will nurture it with your commitment to the well-being of all those others with whom you share your lives.

~ Xaviera Xee

*It all started with a bald scrawny woman in tattered robes making round of round in Cordor North, shouting herself hoarse for people to gather at the idol for choosing a representative on the council.

Slowly farmers, merchants and other people of Cordor north gathered near Chauntea's idol and the young woman, now a little hoarse, explained how Cordor North needed an honest representative in her odd accent, passion and determination more then making up for any words she pronounced oddly.

Minister Xee's last edict was read and save for a small over enthousiastic interruption was met with solemn approval. Candidates were selected with vigour and after some kind words from the black bard voting was done swiftly and decisively; a representative was selected.

The news no doubt would spread that

Gilbert son of Holvin, priest of Chauntea,

was elected by Cordor North as representative in a very cordial and peacefull meeting which was concluded by a gift of food from the shrine and a few good mugs of ale for all!

The bald young woman took a very active part in regulating the elections but wasnt up for elections herself if she could help it. The outcome seemed to please her immensly.*

Through the early days, word spread of a murder that happened in plain view in Cordor east, the Murder of one Lieutenant Aurelius.

Guard patrolling is kept high and alert... and any showing Wiltun's colors or suspicious behaviors are subjected to a long series of questions.

Far away from the chaos and turmoil of the once 'Jewel of the Trackless Sea,' a head adorns a spike next to the gates of imposing Fortress Wiltun. It is marred and disfigured, and has a simple wooden placard nailed into the forehead. And the message is clear to any who travel by:

"The Fate of the baseborn who dare harm Wiltunian Nobility."

A prominent member of the Wiltunian Nobility regards the newly adorned gate ornament without a hint of sympathy. However, his mood is indeed soured by its presence.

"Horrible timing."

A young man walks into Cordor for the first time in awhile. His armor seems to bare the colors of gold, steel, black and red. Though he seems not to look much different then the average person he smiles lightly looking to the sky as the rain hits his face. A sack is adorned on his shoulder where a long red cloak hangs behind it. He looks around at the streets and the people and simply walks through minding his own business. Though as he passes by the people those he see's hungry he takes some food out of his pack and passes it to them. Those who seem to need medical aid he offers kits to freely.

The man seems to be looking around the city. Assessing something, as to what who can honestly tell.

Cordor North seems to be doing better these days, having a handful of ironwood tools to replace their lost metal ones, as well as some of the farmers wielding mithril scythes to work their daily burdens, along with silver sickles. They seem hopeful that they might be able to save their harvest for the coming winter.

Cordor South as well has been faring much better recently, having a recent surplus of metal and wood means that many needed repairs were done, and the docks are operational once more. Still in a reduced capacity, but taking in shipments more readily. The people also seem to be arming and training up. A new group, 'Swords for South Cordor' help keep watch and keep the peace, and also keep an eye on troublesome sorts and anyone from West or Central Cordor. They do their part in manning the barricade to the entrance to the Central district. There are however, a large abundance of abandoned homes, a horrid reminder as to how many people were lost, and indeed, parts of Cordor south when walking among them feel like ghost towns...

People from West and Central Cordor eagerly meet in the city theater, debating various issues, but talk of secession is rather prevalent.
In Cordor West, hope is bleak, and while fed for now on the aid they've been given, many have low hopes since Reed's death. There is a lot of hushed talk of leaving Cordor and running to Tarkuul, and indeed, many of the folk of West have been packing their things in preparation for a journey. Still, for the moment many hold resolute, and patrol their streets armed with clubs and what weapons are left from prior surplus. Despite slackening confidence, they remain stubbornly antagonistic towards those they feel have betrayed the Commonwealth. The Tarkuulian delegation is by in large, still treated with a good deal of fear and respect, though the more 'monstrous' comers are more looked upon with fear than respect.

The Tribunal has the firm support of Cordor North, and some support from Cordor East. The other districts are highly suspicious of it though, Cordor West in particular is poised to outright deny it. Correspondence from the ministers there is ignored.

Meanwhile, on Moribound, the excessively large pile of corpses Igor and his few aides have to bury steadily becomes less excessively large, Igor quite grateful to the Tarkuulian delegation for their aid in keeping the graveyard secure and help in laying those who have departed to rest.

Cordor East is on high alert since the extremely public murders, guards at checkpoints question non-citizen visitors extensively,...

Days march on...

Greyweaver wrote:

Dawn continues as well to assist in the souplines oft time being seen going to Okappa's for the use of his kitchen since it's nearby. Three large vats of mostly onion, carrot, and various vegitable soups are prepared daily in large quantities using as little of the food stores as possible. One thing to note is there is no sign of the mushrooms that had been offered by Tarkuul in any of the soups. She seems adamant in insisting of such to any she comes in contact with while cooking. She's even went so far using her skills from her shady past as an assassin to learn as much as she can about the mushrooms thats been sent from Tarkuul searching for any trace amounts of any addictive ingredient, as well as using spells to detect any magical dweomers that might be eminating from them. Lately she has been mostly in Cordor east but some may have noticed her and Andrew visiting the jail not long ago. Speculation could surmise they visited former minister Xee but such would merely be that, speculation. Dawn does visit the jail fairly consistently for one reason or the other and makes no effort to hide the fact. Having curiousity getting the best of her, which any that know her wouldn't be surprised to hear, she does investigate the sewers and the rumblings herself staying mainly to the shadows.

//posted in Cordor Life as well

On the general success of the efforts to bury the dead, much of the Living Guard presence in Moribund starts to break camp and prepare to return to Tarkuul. The High Captain being conspicuously absent, one of the Watchers would take the liberty to inform anyone who asked that Tarkuul forces were no longer needed in the city proper, having concluded their investigations into Arcanum activity. They would take the time to reassure any who asked that Tarkuul's promise of relief supplies will not be broken: Food will still be supplied, and the dead would still be buried, however Tarkuul had completed its side of the bargain and its search for the Arcanum had come to a conclusion. Therefor, no more significant military presence on behalf of Tarkuul would be needed.

Later the same Watcher would post up signup sheets for any who might wish to leave Cordor by boat to resettle in Tarkuul, with ships being chartered and paid for apparently out of the Living Guard's coffers (and likely that one particular Watcher's own pocket). Safe passage would be supplied for any who wished to leave, along with cargo holds allowing immigrants to take along more than merely what they can carry.

Peacock's Passage 13. The neighbours know it to be the apartment of Joon, that Oghmanyte teacher and librarian. The apartment has been silent for months now, but a candle lights the window on the evening of the 9th of Uktar. Next morning, two sturdy handcarts pushed by two sturdy workers arrive in front of the house, and the scholar comes to the door to let them in. He must have gotten up uncharacteristically early, since his face is flushed and clothes covered in dust. Half an hour later, the man start carrying crates of books and scroll tubes, various bottles of ink and wine, and a few sacks of clothes onto the carts. They make another round for a few bookshelves, a creaky bed and a small altar.

On the door of Peacock's Passage 13, a note is tacked: "Room for rent."

Another note is distributed to his neighbours and posted by the Theatre.

Quote:

"To my good neighbours and fellow citizens,

I was recalled by my superiors to attend a clerical seminar in Waterdeep some time ago. Upon my return, I discovered the tragedy our city has suffered. I also saw the seeds of a better tomorrow. I am committed to that better tomorrow. Sadly, our neighbourhood has grown restless. I cannot condone what has happened in West Cordor, nor can I in good conscience listen to the words of disunity and disloyalty that sound from even our local streets and the theater.

I know most of you are good people and good neighbours, who would never participate in violence or tear apart our Commonwealth any further. Nonetheless, I fear that my stance in this matter will put me in personal danger at the hands of the frustrated and dispossessed who have lost their cool. It has happened to others. To continue my work in the library and the Blue Skies, and wherever else Cordor needs me, I need a safe place of refuge. Peacock's Passage is no longer that place. With regret, I leave my home for someone else to make it their own. I am no longer a Centraler.

Oghma guide your way,
Joon of the Binder, ever your neighbour

P.S. You are welcome to attend the meals at the Blue Skies Academy if you wish to see me. I hope some of you will."

Early in the morning seven caravans laden with goods were dispached from the dwarven citadel of Barak Runedar via the portal in Kohlingen, escorted by twenty stout guards. They would have made their way southward across the Minimar Bridge, through the Forest of Amia, along the Dale road and into the Amia Frontier heading towards the northern gates of Cordor. If making their journey and given entry to the city they would unload their delivery of goods at the Chapel of Lathander with the instructions for the supplies to be distributed where they are most needed in the city.

The goods would be tallied as follows:

Quote:

Meats -- 2753.5 Ibs
Grains -- 563 Ibs
Fruit & Veg -- 96.3 Ibs
Dairy -- 272.3 Ibs

Iron Forge Bars x 500
Metal Farming Tools x 71

Quite some agitation filled Cordor's Southern and Eastern districts today, as a patrol vessel of Cordor's fleet made its way to port, bearing some sort of urgent message. While the ship's crew stopped by The Long & The Short, for some unexpected but not at all unwelcome shore leave, the captain proceeded directly to the Commonwealth center, where he was seen speaking to Franton and Sir Godric. After a fairly brief discussion, the captain was seen returning to the docks, if not to his own vessel, and having a brief conversation with the captain of another coastal patrol ship, that soon after left port.

Not even one hour later, three massive galleons (allegedly flying the flag of Amn, though it was too dark to tell), lit up by a myriad of oil lamps, weighed anchor a short distance from Cordor's docks. Given the sheer size of the behemoths (each one 160 feet long), it was more than likely to do with the fact that they simply would not fit. A smaller craft, belonging to Cordor's Navy, ferried a small group of seven individuals to shore, where they were met by a ragtag group of adventurers and cordorian elite guards.

The small delegation, consisting of one hooded mage and six bodyguards, slowly made its way to Cordor East, where they stopped at the Nomad. After a brief chat with some of the locals, the foreigners withdrew upstairs, to get some rest before meeting with "Cordor's council" as they called it.

Early the following day, the three ships set sail out of Cordor's waters due East after a small cordorian vessel ferried twenty eight more individuals ashore. Once on Commonwealth land, the delegation quickly made its way to the Nomad, where their comrades from earlier were still awaiting a meeting with the city's authorities.

Eli, being made aware, makes his way to the Nomad to share a meal with the visiting envoys and invite them into the Commonwealth Center to speak after the conclusion of the meal.

This newsletter is left in fairly large quantities the Nomad. the Long and Short, and most other public gathering places in Cordor. A few are left in the Commonwealth Center.

MISSION STATEMENT

This newsletter is an attempt at further transparency in my own department as well as a few other interest pieces. Because of the multi-faceted nature of this publication, the cost of printing and materials was taken out of my personal funds and not the school's.

BLUE SKIES ACADEMY OF CORDOR

Schedule
Currently the Blue Skies Academy of Cordor is closed. We are set to open on the First of Hammer. Class will be held on the first seven days of the tenday, with three offdays to round it out. The school year will run until the 17h of Kythorn. Holidays: High Harvestide, Feast of the Moon, Midwinter, Greengrass, the Autumn Equinox and Commonwealth Sovereignty Day.

Enrollment

Children 4-16 may enroll. Additionally, adults over 16 may request literacy or Citizenship exam tutoring. All of these services are free of charge or tuition. Students 12 and over must choose a vocation to study. All costs of apprenticeship/internship are covered by the Academy. They will only take classes in the morning so they may focus on their vocation or trade study in the afternoons and evenings.

Current Teaching Staff (Blue Skies Academy of Cordor)

Headmaster Andrew Fryar: Government, Philosophy, Law
Astraea-Celes: Math, Science
Joon of the Binder: Geography, History, Religion
Castiel Fryar: Student counselor, Job/skill counselor
Keliana: Literacy/Literature

Current Operations

We are currently split between soup kitchen duty and tending to the orphanage, who remain evacuated.

TRIBUNAL

North Cordor recently elected their own representative to the Tribunal – Gilbert, son of the late Holvin. He was brought before the Tribunal and allowed to join unanimously. That satisfied, North has agreed to support the Tribunal.

So far, no timetable of when to start performing their duties has been set out due to the mix reactions to the Tribunal.

What follows is my own personal opinion.

They accepted Gilbert, and they seem open to accepting representatives from other districts as well. I have also received word that Lt. Marcus Aurelius, for excessive force and guard brutality, will be facing trial for imploding multiple people in front of a child. With both of these in mind, I feel reasonably confident in endorsing the Tribunal.

FREE MEALS AND BEDS

The Blue Skies Academy of Cordor is pleased to re-open its doors for free breakfast and dinner for any one who needs a warm meal. Breakfast will be served from 8 to 10 hour and supper will be served 19 to 21 hour. Meals vary from day today, but are balanced to provide vegetables and meat with fruit for dessert and occasionally sweet pastries.

Due to the temporary relocation/evacuation of the Academy's students and the orphanage, the Academy will begin offering free shelter for those in need until the Commonwealth stabilizes. There are limited beds and it is on a first come-first serve basis. Please contact Andrew Fryar to apply.

Bendir Dale, Wharftown, Uhm, Winya, the Shrine, and Barak Runedar all receive personal visits from Eli.

The Hin would simply ask for the opportunity to speak with the leadership of each location. If no meeting time could be set for within the tenday, he would instead fill out a letter to be passed along to the leadership of the township.

In the early hours of the day, a publication from the Clarion goes out, spreading mostly to West and Central Cordor, but a few copies circulate around East Cordor.

Embellished Article wrote:

OUR MINISTERS STAND WITH NOBLES!

It is the painful duty of the Clarion of the Commonwealth to make an announcement, that our beloved Secretary of Law, and acting Minister of Law in light of our beloved Joseph Maximillian's demise, Jay Edgar Mover, has been KIDNAPPED in his home by the work of none other than the ENEMY OF THE STATE Nevaeh Tarvencia! Not only that, but she had the audacity to work with the NOBLE Sir Avadon of Wiltun! The woman, who was named as Secretary of law by the NOBLE and HARPER invaders of Kohlingen, who once attempted to assassinate our beloved speaker, and now works to oppress us even now by handing the freedoms and prosperity of the commonwealth to NOBLES that have long oppressed us! Ghastly indeed, that this once beloved daughter of the Commonwealth so diligently works to destroy everything she once swore to uphold as Captain of the Guard!

Dear reader, I had seen the grisly scene with my own eyes! A law knight and many of our guardsmen who worked hard to protect everything we hold dear, struck down in their own home protecting a man who has long protected us. But poor Jay Edgar Mover's body is nowhere to be found! No doubt he was taken to some horrid secret prison maintained by NOBLES or HARPERS! That they would have the audacity to invade us in our own homes and murder us, while speaking lies of peace? Dear reader, we have truly fell upon hard times, NOBLES from all around the isle seek to deny us our freedom and respond with murder and depravity!

And were this not enough, we have yet another foreign invader within our midst, a conquering fleet comes all the way from Amn to destroy all we have worked for! They also work alongside the NOBLE forces of Wiltun! The same one who's NOBLE had kidnapped or murdered our dear secretary of Law, Jay Edgar Mover! And as prior stated, we know that ENEMY OF THE STATE Nevaeh Tarvencia worked with these invaders, and knew about it! As likely did her HARPER and NOBLE allies!
Which brings us to the point, if they knew about it, why hasn't the so called Citizen's Tribunal, filled with HARPER and NOBLE supporters told us anything about it? Or the HARPER Andrew Fryar? Or The NOBLE sympathizer Minister Hodgewall? Or Minister Xee? It leads to some ghastly conclusions, dear reader! That we are beset on all sides by NOBLES and TRAITORS, who approve of the murderous and criminal actions of the alliance of NOBLES and ENEMIES OF THE STATE!

Dark times are upon us, citizens of the Commonwealth. May the gods have mercy on us all.

The Amnish receive a cold welcome all throughout Cordor, though those of North at least are cordial. In other parts of the city, they're held with extremely low regard.

Meanwhile, support for the Tribunal blossoms in East and South, both seem to approve. However, West and Central remain apart. West Vehemently so...

Tension remains at an all time high, though the defeatist attitude in West and Central Cordor continues to skyrocket, many who once proudly walked the streets remaining locked in their homes, as if grimly awaiting the end of times.

This newsletter is left in fairly large quantities the Nomad. the Long and Short and most other public gathering places in Cordor. A few are left in the Commonwealth Center. One is nailed right onto the Clarion offices.

OPEN LETTER TO BILL HURST

Dear Bill Hurst,

I hope this message gets to you, where ever you're hiding, no doubt stuffing your face on the fats of the people who trust you. Let's take a quick look at your situation:

Throughout the trouble in West and the rest of Cordor, you continued to dress in fine clothes and ate well despite the hardships the rest of the city was enduring. Alongside the Ministry of Law and the Arcanum, you essentially boosted yourselves as the unofficial aristocracy of the young Commonwealth. You all stood aloof from the suffering of the people. You were never at any riots, nor did you ever help the poor. You silenced and condemned dissenting voices repeatedly, including throwing my innocent wife in jail for charges of nobility that were outdated and false. However, this isn't about me. It's about you. How did manage to fare so well while owning the Recorder? Kickbacks.

What is attached here is a short excerpt of some of Bill Hurst's tax documents – the same that had been displayed by Eli during the riots some time ago. They show some wrongdoing.

There. I've provided proof that you're a tax fraud.

The charges laid against Secretary Mover are even worse than yours. You state that Nevaeh Tarvencia is an enemy of the Commonwealth, however the late Speaker Maximilian, as he died, not only forgave Tarvencia, but also declared the Arcanum enemies of the Commonwealth, based upon evidence that was published in a previous edition of my newsletter. These clearly showed that the Arcanum systematically kidnapped and murdered several citizens of Cordor, undermining their right to trial and basic human decency. The Ministry of Law later came under condemnation from the late Speaker himself for breaking these same right to trial for another citizen, Amber Agravar. You also took this opportunity to defend Lt. Hole, a guard who, despite your own words, does not have a record as a good guardsman and was suspected of the murders of citizens from both South and West.

Yet, Mover has ties to the Arcanum and signed off on their murders. You call me a Harper. What is a Harper? You've never laid out any evidence or cause for calling me this nor were any charges ever brought on me, even when the Ministry of Law's regime was still prevalent. Not until after you were placed under arrest for crimes against the Commonwealth – to be brought for trial – that Mover declared me an enemy of the state and ordered my arrest. An arrest I resisted because - as you recall –there hasn't been a public trial under the Ministry of Law's regime pretty much since the Duke's trial and even that was suspect. The trial against the Arcanum? Never public, and completely dropped.

Again I ask, what is a Harper? Certainly, it must be better than a mass murderer. The traitor to the people is you, Mr. Hurst. You and Mr. Jay Edgar Mover who, for years, approved the slaughter of the Cordorian People and turned a blind eye to the crimes of the Arcanum in exchange for your own power.

The Light of Morning pierces all shadows,
-Andrew Fryar

*Kalinda would take one of the Clarions statements and one of Andrews and show them around to her friends in North, she scoffs openly at Hursts statement about the tribunal, claiming that man clearly doesnt want a solution and only complains in big letters.

She'd pen a note herself, doing her level best on making it legible. Later she can be seen nailing it under Andrews letter at the Clarions offices.*

To mister Hurst,

Maybe its time you stop sowing fear and hatred and complaining from shadows and do something constructive like suggestion a constructive SOLUTION to Cordors problems.

Right now we need SOLUTIONS and people striving to return Cordor to peace, harmony and prosperity. Not people hiding and doing their best to keep the city as divided as possible. The Tribunal hasnt even been formed fully so how can it tell anything?

Also, insulting good Gilbert who is noble man but not a noble is not way to treat fellow Cordorian and sets rotten bad example to us all.

If you want the best for Cordor you join the tribunal and work to heal Cordors wounds, not salt them.

-Kalinda

"Come on! They aren't biting today..."

"But I'm hungry," protested the smaller of the two boys, fishing rod in hand and legs dangling off the water's edge in West Cordor.

"Lets just go home, I'd rather be hungry than get caught by a Southie."

The smaller boy wouldn't reply, staring resolutely at the water as the older boy took a nervous glance around the empty, silent streets.

"Come ooonnn!" protested the older boy, thinking the younger was simply ignoring him now and goes to tug on his companion's shoulder. "Hey, what's the matter with you? I said le-" the older boy stops mid-sentence as he catches sight of what the younger is staring at, the fishing pole all but forgotten.

There, out towards the south, a large "dot" had appeared on the horizon sitting on the water. Even as the two boys watched in puzzlement and dread, they could see that the dot was growing larger, closer, though they remained transfixed by the sight of it.

Gradually it would come into view more clearly, and the shapes of what might be buildings could be made out in the distance. Upon the tops of the three tallest shapes - towers perhaps - massive flags of a stark white would be seen flying. While it's unlikely given the state of affairs in Cordor that this means someone is looking to surrender, it is also recognizable as an intent for parley, or for truce.

As the object comes in closer still, a more clear view of it is formed and it seems to be a "tabletop" of rock, or perhaps a very small island, of a very roughly circular shape, with buildings on top of it... floating right there in the middle of the ocean.

At this point, the dumbfounded effect wears off of the two boys and they gain the good sense to run indoors, only darting back long enough to grab up the fishing pole they'd both nearly forgotten about. Had they stayed longer however they would have seen that this "moving island" seems to take station some five hundred yards, fifteen hundred feet out from the south docks of Cordor. As it reaches this position, it rotates in place, the side that now faces Cordor seeming to be choked with (or perhaps built up with) massive amounts of natural stone, the kind you'd find at the sea floor. The sections now facing out towards the open waters, would have two identical buildings that appear to have "wings" that almost seem to enfold those sections of the small island, protectively perhaps.

A number of cutouts from one of Andrew's newsletters begins to circulate through Cordor, spread by some of the city's beggars and children:

Quote:

MHERUN XILPHAS

People have no doubt seen the article by a member of the Council of Tarkuul by the name of Mherun Xilphas. That last name is an anagram for Silphax. Who is Silphax? Jane Silphax was a resident of Waterdeep who came to Amia to find her sister, a resident of Kohlingen. Even so, she dedicated her time to various causes around the island, including helping former High Priestess of Sune Kaytie in regards to our own Temple of Love. It was soon discovered she was pregnant and that the child was magical and growing swiftly.

She was kidnapped in Tarkuul by a man known as Luca and one of his associates, and brought to the City of Shade. Yes, of ancient Netheril. I was among the people Jane requested visit her in the final days of her pregnancy. On the date of the birthing, I was brought there to the place where the remnants kept her prisoner, along with Kaytie, Corinn and Richard Johnson. I had snuck a portal wand into my boot with the intention of helping Jane escape since, as you can guess, she hated it there. We were told the child was the reborn Mherun, a great Netherese mage.

The birthing was horrific. When the child was born, Jane more or less exploded and was absorbed by the child. Soon, it began draining everyone else in the house, killing all of the guards, and nearly draining myself and the other visitors. I was just able to trigger my portal wand before I fell into unconsciousness. The rebirth and rapid regrowth of Mherun Xilphas, of the Council of Tarkuul, was powered in a blood ritual. A blood ritual fueled primarily by his innocent 'mother'.

Though it sees fewer attempts to spread, a few copies of something called "An open letter to Cordor's people" are left around, mostly at night and only by the most brave (or desperate) couriers:

Quote:

An open letter to Cordor's people

People of Cordor, though we have not found welcome in your city, it is our intent and duty to do all within our power to help both enlighten you to the threats that might be forced upon you by your so-called leaders and allies, as well as protect you from them. Undoubtedly you have all seen the "island" that has stopped within five hundred yards of the city's shore. Some of you may recognize it as Tarkuul, though many likely know it only from rumors and hear-say. So let us bring facts to your attention and we will let you, the people of Cordor, draw your own decisions:

-Tarkuul is an ancient netherese city, powered by a magical device known as a Mythallar. The magics used to create the device have long since been banned by the Goddess of Magic herself.
-Tarkuul's council consists, among others, of Mherun Xilphas and Luca. One is a netherese archmage, reborn through blood magic, the other a servant of the City of Shade.
-Tarkuul, despite being called the "Living City", is host to a number of undead creatures, which its inhabitants allow to exist as guards, a force of labor and even companions.

Why, may you ask are the first two points relevant? Surely, the memory of the Arcanum is fresh in the mind of every single one of Cordor's citizens. What may be, perhaps, less known, is that this cabal that has bled the city for so long was led by Cordor's former minister of magic, a certain Tytalus. Tytalus, or if we were to use his real name, Johann Kurtzweil, was an archmage of ancient Netheril, reborn into our day and age, though through a less violent and bloody ritual. He was responsible for the people's suffering, both in Cordor and in Amn. Or was this a detail your leaders forgot to mention? They were eager enough to paint us as conquerors and warmongers, but did they tell you of our reason to come all this way?

Amn's reason for sending a diplomatic envoy is in response to Tytalus having used his blood magic to burn the settlement of Helmsport, an amnish colony on the continent of Maztica. Our intended purpose is to ensure that Amia can no longer produce monsters such a Johann Kurtzweil and to see that magicians such as Xilphas are properly held in check lest they use you, the people of Cordor, as pawns in their attempts to gain power. Amn's first demand was that the magicians subject themselves to censorship, but it would look as they, and your leaders, value their freedom to pursue whatever magical research they wish more than they do your lives and happiness.

We see ourselves forced to ask: do you see your leaders' attempts at garnering the aid of Tarkuul and its netherese archmage leader as different from when the Arcanum seized power? Is this going to do anything but let another cabal of (undead loving) magicians dictate how you will live out your lives?

We wish not to see Cordor become a vassal of Amn. We wish to avoid war, unless it is absolutely unavoidable. We wish to see the Jewel of the Trackless Sea blossom as a trading hub once more, and for its people to live better lives. And, above all else, we wish to see to it that no man, woman or child shall ever suffer under the tyranny of those who would abuse their gift of Magic.

Lastly, we wish to alert Cordor's people of, perhaps, the greatest threat that still looms above the city: the spilling of blood. It is our understanding that a very powerful magical ritual, called the Blood Contingency, has been worked upon Cordor by Johann Kurtzweil. You have all, no doubt, felt its ill effects: the blood beasts that killed thousands, the blind rage that nearly overtook the city on the day of Kohlingen's invasion. The spilling of blood only serves to empower this foul magic, increasing the danger every man, woman and child in Cordor is under with each drop. Yet, despite knowing this, your leaders have chosen to not properly explain to you, the ones they are allegedly serving, of the immense dangers of it. We urge you, one and all, to avoid the spilling of blood, lest the tragic events of the past be repeated.

In hopes that this letter leads to the beginning of a better understanding between our two peoples,
~Joseph Steinberg of Athkatla

Diplomacy's Game Continues: Blood and Rebirth

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