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Chapter 1 - Escape from the Underdark (//%22http://www.efupw.com/old_forums/viewtopic.php?t=2005&start=0%22)

Chapter 2 - Escaped from the Underdark: Archipelago (//%22http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?t=19806%22)

Chapter 3 - Escape from Undeath: Mistlocke (//%22http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?t=55963%22)

Chapter 4 - Escape from Uncertainty: Revelations

Approximately one month has passed since the Darkening and the Apocalypse.

Released by distant and obscure ritual, a sinuous shape of blackness rose from the south, arced across the sky and approached the sun. The Night Serpent Dendar, grown strong on its diet of nightmares, engulfed the Sun in its terrible maw and so was this ultimate life-giving source of light and warmth extinguished.

With the Darkening, the civilizations of Faerun were plunged into chaos. The Night Serpent continued its celestial rampage, devouring many Gods and smashing their realms. Violence, famine, murder, plague, and environmental collapse decimated populations. Deprived even of hope for divine rescue, the apocalyptic catastrophe that took place resulted in near complete devastation of the surface world.

It was then that the Illithid Empire struck. Waiting with cold patience, they had first succeeded at enthralling many races of the Underdark and fashioning them, along with legions of enslaved surfacers and other monstrous creatures, into a cyclopean host of twisted thralls.

Illithid servants roam uncontested upon the barren wastes of the surface. Cities are being raised to the majesty of their masters. Grotesque intellects gaze at the stars, where their counterparts plot to consume other worlds and stranger races.

Yet deep within the depths a hidden settlement of free peoples are establishing Rescue Portals across the realms and offering sanctuary to those of free will who would defy the horrors that have come...

Alturiak 11th : Year 161 : 1383 DR

Throughout Toril and the realm below, the Underdark, a strange schism is felt amongst the faithful - the criers in spellbeggar`s lane seem unsettled - looking to one another as if chaos and disarray have settled in ... the Tymoran in particular looks uneasy...

A strange group arrives in Sanctuary espousing the rhetoric of a new divine entity. Could this be the work of an enterprising trickster, or a legitimate new patron? None are quite sure what to believe anymore, but few openly defy the newcomers.

Alturiak 16th : Year 161 : 1383 DR

In amidst the recent stream of new arrivals to the City of Sanctuary, there have come a strange few afflicted with a terrible curse. Said to hail from the surface island of Ymph, they are seen to exhibit a range of grotesque symptoms.

Vague rumours of several violent incidents involving the cursed folk have begun to circulate. Of particular note was a man who, upon entering the baths of the House of Heroes, rose with his rotten flesh washed from his bones, and assaulted citizens. The rest are less certain, but just as horrifying.

Serena Tower has recently begun to grant necessities such as food, drink, and lodgings freely to those Withered persons who offer themselves as assistants in the Spellguard's undertaken study of the situation, and also to be monitored until it is deemed safe and timely that they be resettled somewhere in Sanctuary.

While some of the few Withered folk gather south of the tower to be processed and taken care of, it's said others have quickly made way to hiding places throughout Dunwarren. Watchers can be seen knocking on hatches, asking questions to residents, and taking some of the few green folk aside.

There is a mood of tension, and swift but silent official action can be discerned - in the corner of the eye, or in passing. But with the green folk under close observation and for the most part no longer in sight wandering the main streets of Dunwarren, most breathe a little easier.

Alturiak 20th : Year 161 : 1383 DR

Individuals who make their way through the farther-flung reaches of the Underdark begin to return with strange tidings. A clan of Duergar, numerous and possessed of fierce warriors and skilled marksdwarves have declared the reaches of the Dark Lake 'tributeground', with travelers forced to pay a toll to make their way through the area. They have been seen ranging as far out as the River Scamander and at times even into the Abandoned Mines near to Sanctuary, prompting concerns that the large number of travelers leaving the gates daily may actually be compromising Sanctuary's security.

Councillors of the Black Guild are reported to be in arms about this development, warning that if indeed these coal-skinned monsters gain access to the rings of foolish Sanctuarians wandering the region, all they have worked for could be threatened. Proposals limiting those who can depart from the city gates to those who have proven themselves capable of handling the darkness beyond have been put forward, obstinately opposed by those of the Red Guild who see the measure as an unnecessary chokehold on the flow of natural resources to the Workmill.

Strangest of all these developments are the occasional report from the Dark Lake which suggests that these Duergar have somehow procured a functional zurkhwood raft and are sailing it around the region, bearing slaves to distant ports. Supposedly armed with a repeating ballista, rumors of massacre and murderbanditry abound, with few travelers considering themselves safe from this new menace.

Alturiak 23rd : Year 161 : 1383 DR

Upper Sanctuary celebrates another small victory against the Chosen, as a large emission of deadly gas is sent through the desolate district of Lower Sanctuary. Accompanied by several Watcher and Warder expeditions in the past few cycles, this has led to a widespread celebratory mood in Upper Sanctuary. Speculation on the dead rat count wavers between fifty and a hundred... fewer and fewer as the extermination campaign has worn on.

Almost unnoticed have been some stirrings in the city of further Withered arrivals, and some of them continuing to trickle away into Dunwarren. Some say Lower. Others, elsewhere. The camp and housing apartments south of Serena Tower have dwindled some, but the Watchers and Warders continue to generously protect and provide for those that choose to remain. Some rumours speak of some Withered folk being led in and out of the tower, seeming less cursed for each trip.

All seems well...

Alturiak 29th : Year 161 : 1383 DR

Shouts and declamations break the silence of Lower Sanctuary as a small group is said to have run amok within the Cave of Ibrandul - Assaulting its denizens and clergy, and desecrating the temple itself. Reactions from the largely abandoned district flit between disinterest and quiet resentment, that so old and enduring an institution might be assaulted.

::[ Ches 5th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

It is said that a large group of monstrous beast-men and other savage humanoids stumbled into the Illusion of the Sanctuary Ruins and began to set up a camp around the Workmill. After heated debate in the closed chambers of the Directorate, Director Gould announced that the beasts must be destroyed and none permitted to escape to spread the tale of a large population of surfacers living once more in Dunwarren.

Under the leadership of the Wayfinders, Watchers, the Society of the Ordered Mind, and the Spellguard Auxiliary a large group of forty or more adventurers established a blockade and then struck swiftly, removing their Sanctuary rings and appearing among the bewildered monsters in a flash. When the dust settled, Director Gould congratulated the adventurers for ensuring none survived and said that the successful operation was proof indeed that Sanctuary's citizens could be molded into a military force that might yet rule the 'dark....

::[ Ches 7th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The talk of Sanctuary is of a minor incident at the Forge underneath Spellguard Tower. Smoke billowed from the tower into Sanctuary proper, and it is said that Auxiliary and Animatrons all rushed inside to secure the area. No public statement has since been issued, but the quips and tales vary from a problem with an Animatron, to an assault by a thrall of the Sleeping Pyrimo...

Most are confident that the Warders have the issue in hand, whatever it was.

::[ Ches 13th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

An announcement from the Directorate this dark has seen the passing of a new law. For reasons of security and stability, it was decreed that those persons afflicted with the Withering Curse were no longer to be welcome in Sanctuary. That by law, such folk are no longer capable of becoming citizens, but would face exile. Immediately following the announcement, the Watchers and Warders secured the camp south of Serena Tower, and a trickle of green folk are being packed up and sent (out of the sight of all but the most curious citizens) into the dark ruins below.

With them have ventured Spellguard Auxiliary and, far less often, Agents... traversing the distance to the empty streets of Lower Sanctuary. A few ask whether the "Lowersmen", the anachronistic rebels and outcasts of Sanctuary-that-was, might disrupt what the orderly relocation. Though whatever sparse strangers and madmen still dwell beyond the shield seem little concern to the Warders' operations, and are little known to most of the people of Upper Sanctuary. If they exist still, they have not lifted their heads or blades. And so the Withered are slowly settled, out of sight and mind...

::[ Ches 13th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The tranquility of Sanctuary was disturbed by a large explosion in the exterior of the Workmill. Although the flames were swiftly put out by the adventuring populace, the charred bodies of two workers and a Watcher were revealed in the rubble and ash.

Judging from the notes left behind, it appears that the explosion was a deliberate assault from someone named Mad Marge (http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?p=350020#post350020) in retaliation for the death of a brother in the Workmill.

It is known that Director Gould has placed a large bounty on her head.

::[ Ches 17th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Wormingers start speaking in hushed whispers about some sort of strange creature that keeps being sighted in the tunnels.

Opinions are mixed on what it actually is they see.  Some say it is some sort of aberrant thing, some claim it's a mutated rock worm, some claim it is just a maddened druid, trying to protect the worms.

Investigations so far have not been called, though some groups of adventurers have been below and found no trace.  So many claim it is just some sort of old wives tale made up to scare off the competition.

Worminging continues unabated, after all, there have been no injuries or deaths caused, and some people have to make a living.

::[ Ches 26th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Mad Marge continues her trail of havok, taking her blooody vengeance out on any and all 'ringscabs' she finds lurking outside of the safety of the illusion of Sanctuary.  Many more names appear on her list of bloodtax victims, the flyers proliferated throughout.  Hushed rumors suggest that the Spellguards latest gigantic 'poison bombing' of the areas near the entrance to the Bowels of the machine may actually have had something to do with her presence being sighted there.

Meanwhile in the Worm Tunnels many strange occurences are spoken of.  The worms, more vigorous and powerful than usual, cause a great deal more trouble for the brave 'farmers' who wander down there.  Many reptiles are sighted, attacking any and all, and wreaking havoc as is their nature where they can.   Also of note, the flayed corpse of a Worminger, found in the tunnels, is said to have been caused by that of a great beast that continues to be sighted.  The first victim of the beast?  Some argue it will not be the last.

::[ Ches 27th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Rumor spreads of the arrival of a large group of Surfacers, apparently brought to Sanctuary by the Spellguard.  The group proceeded to the Canal Ward via the old Gate Road, where they have established a temporary camp.

Meanwhile, in certain circles the disturbing word spreads that a group of adventurers was seen speaking briefly to a dragon in the illusion maintained by the Spellguard, and that these newly arrived, shaven-headed militants each dropped to one knee and bowed their heads in reverence while the creature spoke.

::[Third of Tarsakh : Year 161 : 1383 DR]::

It's no secret that seismic activity has increased in the last week. At times, waves of tremors can be felt moving from one direction of a cavern to another, and only subside after heavily armed groups of adventurers venture out into the darkness.

Some have it that mass migrations of Umber Hulks are responsible for the quakes, although what has caused them to move in such numbers is unclear.

::[Third of Tarsakh : Year 161 : 1383 DR]::

Rumor quickly spreads around Sanctuary of a grizzly event that took place in the House of Heroes.  Though the rumors are unclear of what exactly happened, many speak of a brutal murder of a child and another citizen, and of a horribly distraught mother.  The Watchers were attempting to keep people away from the crime scene in the House of Heroes, as it is said it's gruesome savageness was too much for most to view.

Many turned out for the trial, where three individuals stood charged, two foul-smelling humans and one mute halfling female.  The halfling was said to be the murderer.  It is widely known that Clerk Renee Greystarred was acting Prosecutor, and openly called for leniency for the child-murdering halfling.  She won her case and leniency was granted as she requested, and all three of them were cast out of Sanctuary and into Exile.  

Few seem happy with the verdict, especially the mother of Little Russ, the boy that was brutally murdered.  As the Prefect ruled in Clerk Renee Greystarred's favor the mother screamed and cried out for justice to be done - for the criminals to be stoned.  However, her wishes were not granted as she was led out of the court room by sympathetic citizens.  

Some now whisper angrily about Renee Greystarred's prosecution style, and speak of her sympathy for child-murderers.  Yet another potential scandal could be brewing for the embattled Civil Servant.

::[Sixth of Tarsakh : Year 161 : 1383 DR]::

It has taken a day for the rumors to cease flying with reckless abandon, for those of the Civil Service to come to grips with one set of facts among many, each competing for the limelight in an increasingly crowded narrative. All of them agree, however, that the candidate for Prefect, the late Civil Servant Renée Greystarred, advocate for the Blacks, prosecutor and defender through multiple trials, is dead following her direction of a foul ritual aimed at sacrificing a fellow Hin. The location, all the more horrific, the Katra Vermand Memorial Hospital, where men of Ilmater had apparently begun work attempting to bring some treatment to the withered and destitute of Lower Sanctuary. Had it not been for the timely intervention of the Watch, the responding officer reportedly Hin herself, and the heroism of a stockily-built newcomer to Sanctuary, the dark would be all the more black.

The Civil Service, with the support of the Watch and, it would seem, following careful Spellguard analysis of the scene, report a powerful signature of enchantment magics which suggest that the beleaguered Clerk may have been forced into committing the terrible act. An outpouring of support for the scandal-ridden clerk, from none other than the office of Chief-Herald Penelope Castling, backs the memory and character of the Clerk Greystarred as a devoted, dedicated Civil Servant who could not possibly have committed these acts except under the most extreme form of duress - mental compulsion.

Cheers and cries of jubilation at the news were heard from some parts of the Workmill, where talk of action is discussed more openly, as the very Clerk whose support for Director Gould's operation has had her credibility shattered. Among these and other circles, the rumors of her membership a cult to Shar or even the Night Serpent itself are taken at face value, with abject dismissals of the official line put out by the Directorate and the Civil Service.

Rumors swirl further at the prospect of an inquisition, as of yet unannounced, by the Spellguard into the existence of such cults and the possibility that their members may well be enthralled. Rumors which, of course, the Spellguard vociferously ignores. Amid worker unrest, terrible revelations, and ever-grim tidings from beyond the shield, Sanctuary endures.

::[ Tarsakh 13th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Word spreads that a group of Watchers, in full Watcher regalia, ventured beyond the shield into the in-between ruins to deal with a dangerous cultist of some description.

On their return through the ruins, having incapacitated the cultist, they were attacked by Mad Marge. After a ferocious battle it is rumoured that the Watchers and their companions were thoroughly defeated, only to be rescued by Patrice Vermand and his Half-Orc Companion, who delivered a blow to Mad Marge that nearly killed her. The Scrapgirl fled into the ruins, heavily injured, though with a considerable amount of gold pilfered from the Watchers nevertheless.

Some have subsequently noted that it seems Mad Marge can bleed, just like everybody else.

::[ Tarsakh 15th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Rumours abound that today the Watchers had visited extreme brutality upon the workers involved in the labour dispute.

Witnesses claim they saw a company of Watchers, led by a Sergeant many would recognise as Amory Balfour, raid a home in Sanctuary that was widely known as the publishing headquarters of the protest movement.

Following the smashing of the protesters' printing press, much of their propaganda has seen a greatly decreased circulation, and yet... half a dozen to a dozen women were widowed today, it is said, and their cries for vengeance have not fallen on deaf ears...

::[ Tarsakh 17th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

A small scene was caused by Gwyneth DeVries's revelation that the Causril Commune recruits new citizens against their will and indoctrinates them aggressively.

An emissary of the Causril Commune named Sylus Medret thereafter arrived in Freedom Square to assure the people of Sanctuary that no practice resembling slavery is used to bolster the ranks of the militaristic commune.  His admission that exceptional circumstances on the Surface occasionally required desperate measures have left a few questioning his honesty, though most of Sanctuary seems to believe him.

Those who support Gwyneth's version of the truth are quite vocal about it, however.

::[ Tarsakh 21st : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The town is afire with rumors of what occurred this dark.  There is a great deal of conflicting rumors as people begin to point fingers at each other. What is known and is confirmed is that there was a massive riot outside the recently rented Temple of Waukeen in the Residential District.

According to confirmed rumors the Priestess of Waukeen, Blythe Silverscales, set about to give her planned sermon regarding the current events surrounding the Workmill.  The crowd was deeply divided along political lines, with those of the Black Guild supporting the Workers, those of the Red Guild supporting Director Gould, and average citizens deeply divided.  Things took a turn for the worse near the end of the sermon, when Blythe began to give the workers present a meager sum of gold.  The meager sum caused some to protest.

According to the most widely believed accounts, members of the Black Guild then offered a substantial sum of gold to be distributed to the workers.  This gold was given to the priestess of Waukeen, who immediately was assaulted by sad stories from the workers.  She began to hand out even larger sums of gold, which in turn began to solicit desperate cries from average citizens.  Rumors of gold being handed out by the priestess quickly spread about Sanctuary, and soon the Temple was overrun with desperate citizens looking for their share.

As the crowd grew more agitated and desperate, and more than a few agitators among those present started to show signs of violence, magic was used to try and subdue the crowd. This caused a panic, which almost allowed the priestess to escape unharmed.  However, she was spotted before she got away, and the crowd began to surge toward her.  As this happened an all out riot broke out, leaving many wounded, and a handful dead.  Quite a few citizens spent the dark crammed into a Watcher cell for disorderly conduct.

Things grew worse still, after the Watchers cleared out the area, some individuals - it is unclear who - went back to the Temple of Waukeen and vandalized it.  

From this point forward it is difficult to know the truth, as rumors devolve quickly into finger pointing and political propaganda.

Tarsakh 25th, Year 161, 1383 DR

The rumours say that it was the actions of Alexei Antonov, a lowly and  some say incompetant and embarassing Auxiliary - though now it is contended by many that this was simply treachery in disguise - that provoked such sweeping wrath from the Spellguard. Agents can be seen stoically leading expeditions of Animatrons and Auxiliaries into  Dunwarren, and Lower, searching the sparser and emptier sectors of the Svirfneblin  city and the Machine and questioning every resident found...

All this because, this dark, Alexei stole an  animatron and delivered it into the hands of the Masked Man and his  associates. The betrayal has sent ripples of anger and confusion through Sanctuary, and there is a mood of sullen fury and determination about the Spellguard Auxiliarymen who traverse the ways and streets of the city, placing bounty notices (//%22http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?t=84598%22) and speaking with Watchers... plastering the city with the name "Alexei Antonov".

The only word from the Spellguard thus far is that the events of this dark, if their results cannot soon be undone, will cause the emergence of an existential threat to Sanctuary.

::[ Tarsakh 26th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

It is wildly known that Blythe Silverscales was mugged in plain view of everyone in the middle of the House of Governance by an assailant armed with a crossbow and wearing rusted chainmail.

A group incensed by this audacious crime were deputised by Watcher Argan Brows and Agent Nuul Shazeem to hunt for the perpetrator in Lower Sanctuary, culminating in a daring raid on the Crone.

Chuckling Bill, a one handed man and the mugger were seen later ejecting a battered and bruised group of Upper Sanctuarians from the Crone. Thereafter Chuckling Bill appeared to be sporting some memorabilia his collection was until now lacking: a brand new Watcher Helmet and cloak.

::[ Tarsakh 28th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Cries and screams of terror erupted from the House of Trade when an assassin emerged from the shadows behind Blythe Silverscales as she addressed an audience of customers at her trade stall and ran her threw with a knife. The assailant could be heard saying the following words before plunging the knife into her back:

Quote"What cruel fate falls upon you, my dear, when foundations of love are built on treachery. My Lord cares not for your tale, only that you now welcome his silent embrace."

After painting the floors and walls of the hall with her blood, the assassin fled and was quickly lost to the narrow streets of Upper Sanctuary. Many Sanctuarians mourn the passing of the Holycoin, yet, in some dark corners of Dunwarren, others wring their hands with mirth...

::[ Tarsakh 28th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Shortly after the assassination of Blythe Silverscales, the outlaws Onehand and Slugtongue launched a raid upon the House of Knowledge. It appears that they had attempted to smash one of the glass cases to steal an exhibition piece.

While one librarian was slain in the raid, the rest were evacuated, and the Watchers and Spellguard, incensed by the brazen killing of a noteworthy citizen in the House of Trade, quickly surrounded the building and demanded the immediate surrender of the men within. When Slugtongue and Onehand emerged and refused to lay down their weapons, the Spellguard representative directed several Artillery Animatrons to bombard them, nearly reducing the pair to dust. Many observers note that there was no trial for the pair after they were apprehended, and that the Spellguard's no-nonsense approach was an attempt to bring a sense of order back to the streets of Upper Sanctuary after a recent spate of increasingly audacious crimes.

The pair were never seen again.

::[ Mirtul 16th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Mad Marge is at it again.

Today a Watcher was taken while walking alone, and in uniform, through the In-Between ruins. It is said Marge dragged the Watcher into the Bowels of The Machine, and issued a ransom of five thousand gold pieces.

A group was quickly assembled to rescue the Watcher, and, unusually, he was returned without further incident. The circumstances that led Marge to return the Watcher are unclear, only two things being certain: the ransom was not paid, and there was no significant fighting either.

Many have begun to wonder if this move signifies a change in Mad Marge's methodology: some say she has become more cautious, while others speculate that the significant increase in the sums of money she is aiming to take indicate either a growing ambition, or growing desperation.

::[ Mirtul 17th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Sanctuary was today plunged into chaos.

Following an explosion at the work mill, in which many workers were horribly burned and injured, there was a large riot in the streets. As tensions reached breaking point, indisciminate violence broke out on both sides, with many Watchers, workers and innocent bystanders getting hurt or killed. The Workmill has subsequently been shut down.

During the riot, a large group of well armed bandits launched a raid on the House of Trade. While most of the tradesmen and merchants made it out before the hall was set on fire, the vault was broken into and plundered. It is said that the relief party that arrived to combat the raiders and douse the flames glimpsed Mad Marge moving in the thick, dense smoke of the House of Trade, although no other trace of her was found.

According to a preliminary estimation made by the Scriviner Carmen Evans of the Mausoleum, 18 workers, 7 innocent citizens and 3 Watchers lost their lives today.

It seems certain that they won't be the last.

::[ Mirtul 18th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The workers have today seized both the wares of the workmill and subsequently Director Gould's mansion. One of his personal guard was killed in the struggle and his lifeless body was found below the director's residence: whether he was thrown or fell in the melee is unclear.

The workers retracted the lift to the Director's residence and spent the rest of the day shoring up their position. A series of repeating ballistae bristle threateningly from the elevated platforms, and a surprisingly well-drilled rotation of very heavily armed guards, clad in the finest wares of the workmill, take it in turns to keep watch. It is clear the workers have been planning this for a while, and they have quickly made their new headquarters amongst the most impervious locations to attack in the entirety of Sanctuary proper.

Following their success, they issued a public invitation to members of the Black Guild, Elven Mourners of the Garden, and men living beyond The Shield to join them. It is clear that, should such a coalition be formed, it could prove to be the largest and most well-equipped militia in Sanctuary, surpassing even The Watchers.

First of Kythorn : Year 161 : 1383 DR

With Director Gould's residence occupied by revolutionaries, and the Workmill shut down, Sanctuary has begun to get a bitter taste for the impact. The first signs of the stalling Workmill are observed in the House of Trade:

"But that was only five coins yesterday."

"You sold that to him for forty nine. Don't think I didn't hear you."

"What do you mean there's no more purple buttons?"

It's mild yet, and folk are finding ways to make do... borrowing, or handing down, or what have you. But predictions in the House of Trade are dark indeed, and some merchants in their cups at the House of Heroes have never seemed so sad.

Yet resolute are the hopes that a solution will be found in times to come. With what seems a deafening silence coming from the Black Guild, the elves, and others called upon for revolution. And with no further altercations, the tension has melted some. Indeed, Citizens of Sanctuary are even heard speaking positively that the Watchers have the violence under control, that the revolutionaries can't hide in Gould's mansion forever... and one dark the important people on all sides will just sit down and sort it all out.

But there are others, grieving for friends and family lost in the riots, who watch the Workmill and the guardians of the fortified mansion with quiet, vengeful hope.

And there are those that loudly declare that the lazy rebels should be thrust aside, arrested, tried... to make room for those coming fresh to Sanctuary, who want to work.

Guesses abound, as to whether it is the quiet before the storm, or the last scratchy page before the book is quietly closed on this chapter of Sanctuary history...

::[ Kythorn 4th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Thomas Blanqui today delivered a speech outside the shut-down Workmill, rejecting the deal offered by the Directorate and making an impassioned call to the people of Sanctuary and the workers not to lose heart in fighting for what's right. But his words were met by hostility, indifference, and suspicion from the onlookers. He had come as a furious bear of a man, and left a wounded dog. It seems none, if any, heeded his call.

As his words ended with solitary cries from revolutionaries of "AN END TO DEBT BONDAGE!", "BETTER PAY!" and "FREEDOM!", some say Watchers were chuckling on the sidelines.

For the workers of Sanctuary, the whole event was salt in their wounds. Tales of their suffering filter through the rumours of the dark. A worker forced to sell his only boots to feed his family. Master Zurkhwood Artisans ashamedly begging their friends for coin. Folk already hundreds, or a thousand or more sovereigns in debt taking greater loans to make ends' meet. All the while, it seems... no one cares.

With Blanqui's occupation looking increasingly hopeless, and demoralised workers hurting while the Workmill remains closed, Sanctuary waits.

::[ Kythorn 18th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

News quickly spreads around Sanctuary of the trial of Prefect Liruwen, the self-styled Matriarch of the Elves.  The trial itself was overseen by Prefect Sinclair by majority vote by the Directorate, who had also agreed to abide by his decision.  She was put on trial for numerous crimes, but chief among them treason for consorting with known or suspected thralls and attempting to endanger Sanctuary by letting them into the city.  All who witnessed the trial speak of Prefect Sinclair's open and unconcealed contempt for Liruwen and any who sought to defend her.

Ultimately, the fallen Prefect was declared guilty and sentenced to be burned at the stake as she had sentenced Bjorl the Troll, her most widely known case in her brief time as Prefect.  Prefect Sinclair is said to have been amused at the thought of burning a "knife-eared witch" alive.

However, as she was carried off to Freedom Square to be executed, one of the elves gathered there started to protest openly.  He called on the crowd to not allow the injustice to take place and to take action.  As he was speaking, Prefect Sinclair ordered Sergeant Balfour to begin beating him until he became silent, but before this could happen a horn sounded from the rebel occupied mansion of Director Gould.

At that moment the elf speaking cried out for those gathered among the commoners who had amassed to see the execution to reveal themselves.  Numerous elven warriors, elven marksmen, worker revolutionaries, and a scattering of cultists from Lower Sanctuary revealed themselves to be armed and armored under their robes.

What took place next varies from account to account.  However, it was a massive and chaotic battle, where it became difficult to tell friend from foe.  Bystanders, spurred on by the actions they had witnessed leaped to join the fray.  Friend turned against friend, revealing at last the deep divisions in Sanctuary.  

In the end the majority of those who had rebelled escaped to Director Gould's mansion, where they regrouped and remained for some time.  Each side began to assess the damage and their losses.  It became clear that the rebels had successfully spirited away the disgraced Prefect, but it did not come without a heavy cost.  

Thanks to the advanced planning by the Spellguard and the Watchers, animatrons and additional watchers were on duty.  They were able to capture three prominent rebels, two lesser known Elves, and the high valued rebel named Sigvar who is believed to be the public leader of the Cult of Ascension.

Sigvar was immediately dragged off to Serena Tower, no doubt to endure harsh interrogation at the hands of the Spellguard.  What he will reveal is unknown, though the rumors are many.

However, the rebels had captured a prisoner of their own, a member of the Watchers.  An exchange was arranged and the Watcher was ultimately swapped for one of the lesser known elves.  Immediately after the exchange took place, the Watchers fired upon the occupied mansion of Director Gould with incendiary flames. All who did not make it inside the mansion perished.

After this Sanctuary fell silent and life slowly started to return to normal.  However, what remains of the elves of Sanctuary are fractured, with some elven civilians now the objects of scorn from their neighbors, and hostile anti-elven graffiti begins to appear near the garden of the lost.

Life has returned to normal, but deep resentments and anger seems to be boiling under the surface.  It is only a matter of time before it erupts again.  Meanwhile, the Watchers quickly move to keep the peace through whatever means necessary.

::[ Kythorn 19th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

At long last, the revolutionaries occupying the Gould Mansion have been expunged. This is the tale of the dark, and a mood of relief washes through Upper Sanctuary. The expectation is for the Workmill to reopen, and Workers who took the Directorate's Deal to return to work.

The Scriveners of Doom are seen to move in on the Mansion, identifying bodies with the help of the friends and family of the dead rebels. The grief and rage is palpable in small, but noticeable ways as Sanctuary tries to mend. Among those bagged to the Mausoleum, it is said, was the leader of the revolutionaries: Thomas Blanqui.

Yet even so, there are those who say the troubles are not over. There were rebels that escaped the fray and fled, Mad Marge still jaunts through Dunwarren collecting blood tax, and the dissidents hiding out in the derelict streets of Lower Sanctuary are said to be swelling.

Indeed, the rumours speak of strange occurrences in the lower sections of the city, and the death of one Spellguard Agent Martulio Paub. But the details are vague. They talk of a settlement in the sewers, of gas and Chosen, of an old people from the darks of Sanctuary-that-was. Some adventurers even claim to have seen the likes of gangs and thugs, of pale families, of loners and freaks and madmen, crawling up from sewers below...

::[ Kythorn 26th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The cries from below echo, through wanderers, messengers, and rumour... speaking the same thing: "Lower Lives!"

The streets of Lower Sanctuary have been claimed again by living souls, from both above and below: The strange folk of Sewer Town, and the elves and men of the weary, shattered Revolution. The mood is difficult to place, so mixed it is, mingling defeat, fear, rebellion, opportunity, apprehension, and above all liberation.

In Lower, there are battles over food scraps, and there is worried talk of the Spellguard's campaign against the Chosen, of the gas that could be sent at any moment to wipe out the streets under noble pretenses.

In Upper, there is a furtive but growing debate mounted atop concerns of just what such a blatant settlement of the old "Sanctuary Below" will mean for Sanctuary as a whole, without a shield to hide and protect them from the many eyes of the depths... Lower Sanctuary's safety, and Upper Sanctuary's hidden nature each seem under graver threat than ever.

So too is there low talk in Upper of a coming election, and an opportunity for the Red Guild to take Sanctuary and leave its darks of isolation behind.

Meanwhile, the Agents of the Reformed Order of the Spellguard are seen to be entering and leaving the Workmill... along with Animatrons and Auxiliary all carrying mysterious cargo.

::[ Flamerule 30th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Denizens of Upper Sanctuary are becoming increasingly concerned as a serial killer, colloquially known as "The Gentleman Killer" has murdered three somewhat affluent men in the open streets of Upper Sanctuary. Watchers have begun taking longer patrols to catch the killer, while some ordinary citizens attempt to investigate on their own. Some, like Sal Pennerton, choose to use this opportunity for personal fame and fortune through journalism, while many other citizens begin to become upset with The Watchers for not having caught the killer sooner. A few citizens are heard doomsaying, mentioning that this is only the beginning of the end, where Sanctuary destroys itself from the inside without any help from the Dread Empire or any other external threats of the Underdark.

::[ Midsummer, Flamerule : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Upon the day that many would recall as Midsummer, a time of high heat and frivolity before the fall of Lathander, the Moldmire radiates a strong wave of heat throughout the caverns beyond Fort Mur and into the Badlands. The reminiscent message of Midsummer is not lost amid the irony of the violent conflict that blew through this unusual, fungal cavern recently.

Cries of battle, terrible echoes of singing fires and screeches of unknown horrors can be heard for many hours. In the dusted, bloodied mulch that remains long after these sounds are lost to the Underdark, evidence of a vicious struggle would be obvious to any that walked there.

This recently defiled and often reviled place certainly remains littered with the piles of dead, twisted fey creatures for days unknown. Many spiders that are contorted and stuck between high piles of fallen stalagmites and languishing amid the burned remnants of their ilk tell a horror story of what came to pass.

While the Moldmire burns with a furious energy that is certainly born through magical means, a cleansing fire that rips it's way through the cavern taking with it all infection and hellish abomination, signs of healing become obvious very quickly.

Many hands create light work, and whoever replants and tends this alien garden do so rapidly. New life begins to bloom amid the ashes of all that once was.

::[ Eleasis 5th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

For reasons inexplicable to the people of Sanctuary, the town and surrounding areas were besieged by countless swarms of giant spider hatchlings.  More than a handful of citizens and residents of Upper and Lower died after suffering several horrible bites but most people were able to find shelter and safety from the swarms.

Several adventurers made a concerted effort to clear away as many of the spiders as they could, stomping them under foot as they went.  There is speculation as to the source of the spiders, from Drow to the odd woman who is known to worship and command the foul arachnids, but each theory is discounted in turn.

Another mystery surrounds how the spiders 'entered' into the Shield.  Answers are not forthcoming and eventually the citizenry write it off as just another dangerous and strange occurrence that comes with living in the depths of the Dark.

A small handful of Watchers within the past fortnight have turned in their badges, forsaking Sanctuary for the greener pastures of Lower Dunwarren.

Each member of this trickle of defectors has cited excessive use of authority by Prefect Abala Quickfeet as their primary reason for leaving.  They claim that the chain of command has broken down, and a civilian should not control the Watchers.  More than a few can be heard grumbling about Evvin Maurice...

Other Watchers, however, defend her heavy-handed approach, citing her heroism, her immense popularity with the populace at large, and her divine blessing in these dark times.  They insist that a pure-hearted warrior leader who can rally the people is necessary to keep Sanctuary together.

Many citizens in Upper Sanctuary gossip about the open killing of a new tailor in the city by an elf. Some claim this elf is The Gentleman Killer, but soon after it was announced publicly that The Watchers are setting up Brelm Blazon for trial as The Gentleman Killer within the week. Rumors range incredibly in variety, with a couple claiming that Brelm Blazon must have been enthralled by The Dread Empire to act so rashly.

Word spreads like wildfire that the proprietor of the Forge of Legend, the blacksmith Droggus Munt was, along with his Forge Assistant, executed by the Spellguard for an extremely long list of crimes.  

The formal announcement shocked many with its immediacy, but others insist that the Spellguard know what they're doing and that such a legendary smith would not be killed lightly.

The adventurers are hit the hardest by the loss, lamenting the missed opportunities of past and future.

::[ Eleasis 15th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Whimsical whispers play up to all kinds of old and inherent superstitions amongst the residents of Sanctuary. Mentions of Black Cats ambling by before vanishing into shadows, clumsy accidents and unfortunate circumstances left in their wake. Chatter about sightings of White Kittens and a host of unexpected, fortunate events being reported soon afterwards.

If nothing else, this fritter of gossip provides a few smiles or raised eyebrows. However, others with a more knowing understanding of the Mistress of Luck, are seen to make quick and nervous religious markings in the air, warding themselves from her gaze and averting her attention to those who would blaspheme the fickle hand of fate.

Watchers on patrol quietly complain about new ruling within The Watchers. Lieutenant Pond's displeasure regarding The Watcher's lack of success in capturing the recent string of serial killers has resulted in the implementation of arresting quotas. Watchers, nervous about not being able to make quotas, are seen arresting the citizenry on more liberal interpretations of the Book of Law.

Great patches of ice cover parts of the Low Road and Crossroad Caves.

Some say they are the result of recent cold winds that have been sweeping over the Underdark, others speak of odd groups of winter creatures roaming in the darkness. There is even talk of a furious frost giant doing battle with some of Sanctuary's bravest in the Crossroad.

Most seem to agree however that a series of cold lights were seen above Low Road on the 16th of Eleasis, after a Spellguard Agent left the town for some manner of experimentation.

::[ Eleasis 24th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

A sending was made by Director Crane of the Black Guild.

Quote from: "Director Crane"Good day, Citizens of Sanctuary.  This is Director Crane speaking.  In keeping with the Philosophies of the Black Guild, I am pleased to announce that the Directorate has seen to the reclamation and cleaning of two properties now vailable for rent by the public.  One is a Merchant Hall for an enterprising and estimable Merchant of our City.  The other is a Barracks that might be utilyzed by those more militarily minded.  As with all properties, these are generally reserved for those who have worked towards the good of Sanctuary.  If you believe you have the prestige to reside in any of our properties, please see a Civil Servant to discuss tenancy.  Thank you.

While many who have allegiance to the Black Guild are quick to point out that these improvements to the town are just the sort of thing that the Black Guild pushes, many in the Red Guild mutter that it was their idea and the Black Guild are merely taking credit.

Black Guild members scoff and point out that the Red Guild would never be too late to crow about their accomplishments while Red Guild members point out that the nature of the properties indicates Red Guild involvement.

Several citizens quickly attempted to rent these properties but were turned down by Civil Servants for a variety of reasons.

Rumors quickly spread that the Lower Sanctuary menace known as the Pissrats were either destroyed or dealt a serious blow by a mysterious figure known only as Gorbengolt...

The name Chequon is also mentioned. Whatever the cause, the citizens of Lower rejoice in the gang's lowered activity.

::[ Eleasis 29th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Word comes out from the Workmill that production, it seems, has run into a materials shortage which is keeping men and animatrons from their duties. A lack of refined copper, of all things, seems to be the issue, apparently a critical component in all manner of alloys and devices.

Other materials are being used for the moment, however, it was said that in response to this Director Gould himself spoke before a crowd of adventurers, personally selecting and authorizing a group of six that could go out and investigate rumors of a large deposit somewhere in the region. This done, apparently as elsewhere in the 'dark five unlucky adventurers were killed in some manner of explosion, the group seems to have returned with reports of success.

The Black Guild has immediately risen to criticize Gould's haste and rash action, as they would call it, pointing out that any mining effort would be taking place outside the shield, exposing Sanctuary to countless dangers. The response from the Reds follows that, sans scouring the Underdark, only active mining of the Machine itself will keep Sanctuary's industries functioning (prohibited by the Spellguard), and that raw materials must come from somewhere, else swords, arrows, tools, and all manner of worked goods fall into short supply.

All the while, rumors of an upcoming election swirl...

Rumors begin to circulate through Lower Sanctuary (and subsequently, in a distorted form, through Upper Sanctuary) that an old prostitute relieving herself in the canal witnessed a peculiar sight indeed.
 
As she told it, she witnessed an entourage of Spellguard near the sewers by the canal, five all told.  Four of them were escorting a fifth who had been shackled.
 
The old whore claims that the shackled man, in a feat of sudden and super-human ability, shattered his shackles and slew his four captors with an arcane barrage.  After she ceased to avert her eyes, a grinning man in a hood stood among the dead, greeting the surviving Spellguard Agent with a short embrace.
 
The grinning man passed the survivor a smoldering parcel that stank of brimstone and cinders, and strolled into the sewers.
 
The survivor vanished in a pillar of rock and flame.
 
Many cast doubts upon this ridiculous anecdote, but the Spellguard denies than any of their personnel were harmed in any way, calling this story the ramblings of a delusional woman.

::[ First of Eleint : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The Town of Sanctuary is abuzz after the announcement made by the Chief Herald, Penelope Castling, that Director Ilyna Que'tl's Seat int he Directorship will be up for Election at the end of the month.  Several wonder who might try to run and take the seat, noting that the Black Guild hold the majority vote int he Directorship, but that it could quickly change.

Several wonder if the Director will even attempt an incumbency run, given the disaster surrounding her Prefect choice, which led to many of those who supported her leaving for Lower.  Meanwhile, the Red Guild debates who would best represent their number.

More exciting than the actual Election, to many folk, was the attached announcement that the Great Games would be held, with teams announced on the fifth day of Eleint.  There is much speculation as to who will play and many begin assessing the odds.

All in all, an exciting day for Sanctuary.

::[ Eleint 5th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

An announcement was made by the Stadium Curator, Marvin Pond:

Quote from: "Marvin Pon"And the moment you`ve been waiting for!  Announcement of the Teams!

Starting for the Black Team:  `Madeyes` Booker, Xothkug the Scrivener, Oliver Hartwell, and `Garrett`.  Second string: Charlene Carshby, Gregory Mazorath, Jeb `Rattles` Talbot, and Elain Rona!  A grand cheer for the Black Team!!!

And starting for the Red Team: Captain Prefect Abala Quickfeet, Ordinant Rallick Dess, and Baelian Kalvath.  And of course, Mallory Mopmaiden!  Second string is Carys Greycoin, Arthur Knighton, and Zsigmond Kadar!  A rousing cheer for the Red Team!

Sanctuarians cheered at the announcement and many are excited at the prospect of a the games being played.

::[ Eleint 14th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

As worries of depleted Baublium stores gnawed at the citizens of Sanctuary, the very stones of the cavern began to rumble deeply.  Several adventurers went to investigate when some manner of 'dimensional rift' opened in the cavern of the In-Between.

From this tear came an outpouring of frog-like monsters, called Slaad amongst the learned, and they immediately set themselves upon the adventures.  Men rallied to the call to defend, and the law abiding citizens of Upper fought alongside the rebels of Lower against a common enemy.

Along with the Slaad appeared some manner of vessel, a sailing ship of some sort, crashing from the rift onto the edge of a chasm.  The occupants drafted several of the adventurers into a desperate battle to close the tear and halt the Slaadi advance.  The ship-starved crew known as the Starlings answered the call and set off, along with one of the Spellguard's more prominent Agents.

Upon their return, the Agent held aloft a red stone, calling out some arcane syllables.  In a flash of light, the rift was mended and the Slaadi stopped.  however, the ensuing tremors rocked the vessel from it's precarious perch down into the chasm, crashing on the rocks below.

The Agent was lauded as a hero and some speak about the brave sacrifice of the Starling's Captain.  Still others wonder about the strange vessel and its fate.

::[ Eleint 15th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The dust had not yet settled from the previous days extraordinary events when Marvin Pond made the general announcement that the games would begin, as scheduled.  The two teams made their way to the Stadium, followed by fans, enthusiasts, and the curious.

The two teams took the field and what followed was a brutal game dominated by the Black Guilds chosen players, a hodgepodge of mercenaries and adventurers.  The Red Guild's team was mostly made up of Ordinants of the Society and their allied Wayfinders, led by Prefect Quickfeet.

At once point of the game, the wanted criminal Drogor Splints dashed across the arena, spinning elegantly and in the nude, mocking Upper's authorities and dragging several key peacekeepers from the match in a chase through the near caverns.

Try as they might, the Red Guild could not pull in the win, and the Black Guild won the match 5 - 1.  Jubilant over their victory, many wonder if it is enough to help propel the Black Guild's chosen Candidate in the upcoming election, the relatively unknown Narvis Narfeine, to victory over the well known, if not universally liked, Prefect Abala Quickfeet, running as the Red Guild's Candidate.

After a riot at the Watch House, Brelm Blazon was found dead. A controversial journalist, Sal Pennerton, released a story on the matter. His current issue of his paper, "The Sanctuary Crime Report" is selling high volume after the recent story, which describes the circumstances surrounding Blazon's ultimate demise.

Read the paper here (http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?p=373827#post373827)

::[ Eleint 19th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The first major debate was held by the Black and Red Guilds' respective candidates, presided over by an Ordinant of the Society.

At the appointed time, the Black Candidate surprised everyone in attendance by announcing that he had procured, from the Scrappers, over 60 units of Baublium, bringing the stores to a level not seen in recent memory.  While most of the population lauded the Candidate, many in the Socirty of the Ordered Mind dismissed it as a political 'stunt', a sentiment not missed by many who remember the fanfare surrounding the Wayfinders relatively paltry contribution just a few days prior.  Further criticisms revolved around what possible criminal associations the Candidate must have catered to in order to receive such a boon.  Others simply point to the Baublium meter as if that is enough to end any debate.

The Candidate's momentum at the refinery was slowed in the debate however as a vocal Red crowd voiced support for the Prefect and kept the Elven Candidate off balance.  Narvis was criticized for being long winded and many of the Ordinants in attendance needled him as he sought to respond to questions and concerns, giving further rise to concerns about the Prefects ties to the Society.

As the campaigns wear on, most groups are more interested in what the Candidates might offer them directly and less worried about the results of an exhibition of wordplay.

::[ Eleint 21st : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

In a bolt from the depths, the political climate of Sanctuary this dark went from roiling to an out-right conflagration, as Prefect Abala Quickfeet, candidate for the Red Guild, was brought to trial by the Watchers of Sanctuary. Amid clamoring protests of favoritism and "Black as sin" from the Red Guild, one Watcher-Medic Vincent Volandis prepared and presented a case that was heard before the honorable Prefect Hyram Sinclair.

To the elation of the Reds and the dismay of the Blacks, the case presented did not approach the burden-of-proof established by Sinclair for the extra-ordinary crime of "Corruption", unlisted in Sanctuary's Book of Laws, chosen by the prosecution in an apparent aim to see the Prefect stripped of her seat by judicial mandate. The words of the Prefect Sinclair himself became a rallying cry for the Reds as a not-guilty verdict was issued: "the greatest crime here, in fact, is the monumental waste of my time".

As the accused departed, never having to even present her case, barricades beyond holding back throngs of citizens who could not fit inside the packed courtroom erupted in a medley of cheers and protests - with shouts of treason and collusion, victory and triumph echoing through the streets. Abruptly, evidently in response to this, Watchers who were formerly displaying guild badges upon their belts or elsewhere on their persons, predominantly black, have ceased to do so. The ramifications of the Prefect's acquittal and the rampant charges of politicization levied at the Watchers remains to be seen as the election draws nearer..

::[ Eleint 26th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Citizens lined up at the House of Governance as voting for the First Director's seat opened.  Speculation abounds at which of the candidates will take the seat.  Most people agreed that Prefect Abala Quickfeet enjoyed a strong advantage going into the race but that newcomer Narvis Naerfaine's strong campaign may have made up the gap.

Voters are directed to the voting room adjacent to the assembly hall in the House of Governance.

::[ Eleint 26th, Early Bells : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

As voting begins, the mood that lies over Sanctuary is anxious,  with both sides counting their voters and watching the other for signs  of corruption and malfeasance. The guild offices are engines of  efficiency, with their staffs doubled, and couriers running all over for  final stops.

The Watchers, through all of this, are a bastion of  professionalism. There are no guild badges on display, no subtle hints  as to which side should be supported in the contest, and no other  overt displays of support. For an organization long considered to lean heavily to one  side, a notion reinforced by the accusations against the Red candidate for Director, this silence has many of the Blacks concerned.

::[ Eleint 26th, Middle Bells : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The peaceful and quiet of the opening of voting in the House of Governance was marred the very same dark, as screams echoed from its halls and a cacophony of stampeding men and the shouts of Watchers broke the humidity in a torrent of blood.

At the center of it all was a so-called act of sabotoge, the "Firehead", the traitor "Chandera Morningbright" come up from Lower or some hall of the Machine, seeking to break the voting device with the flames that come so natural to her. This was not to be, however, and while the chaos of that room left few answers to how the melee occurred, she was subdued before she could carry out her plot. One man lay slain, attributed to the traitor's attempts to escape, an innocent bystander in Black colors.

She was taken to the center of Freedom Square and executed for her prior conviction on the charge of treason, Lieutenant Mulgar Troff of the Watchers bringing his greatsword down upon her neck.

The early rush to vote has quieted significantly. While tens of people still filter in and out of the House of Governance, a grim pall has been cast over the proceedings.

::[ Eleint 28th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

A band of rothe hunters returning from a hunt along the shores of the vast Dark Lake are heard by many to be sharing a curious tale.

Apparently, two vessels were observed engaging in a furious battle some distance from the shore-line. The crew of the smaller vessel were defeated, and the boat was set aflame. As the larger vessel sailed away into the blackness of the Lake, the burning boat of the defeated drifted ashore.

In the burning wreckage, the bodies of five savagely slaughtered svirfneblin was found.

Although a tale of some interest, many listeners are heard saying that the battles being fought upon the waters of the Lake are surely of no possible concern to Sanctuary.

Just another tale of the horrors of the 'dark to be told, and then forgotten.

From scrapper to trader and from trader to tavern patron the story of how a Spellguard Agent was killed within the Machine spreads. It is said that Drogor Splints a wanted fugitive fleeing the Spellguard Agent and several Auxiliary, led them into the small and hidden community of Scrappers known as Bartertown. In the fight, after calls for the Scrappers to surrender were made by the Agent, Drogor Splints detonated several powerful alchemical objects within the confines of Bartertown itself, killing wounded scrappers and the injured Auxillary alike. Over the protests of the Scrapper's of Bartertown, Drogor Splints then executed Agent Obersvesky.

Various signs point to the veracity of the rumors truth, such as Scrappers muttering about the 'long falls in the Machine' they would like for Drogor to take and people in Lower Sanctuary boasting that if he tries to have them fight his battles, like the Scrappers, he'll get a quick knife in the back, and a long ride out to the Dark Lake no matter who's hunting him. The most telling is the disappearance of various auxiliaries and the Agent Nicholas Obersvesky from the streets of Sanctuary...

::[ Eleint 29th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

With a day and a half of voting to go, rumors that members of the Society of the Ordered Mind are blatantly buying votes for their preferred candidate, Prefect Abala Quickfeet has many shaking their heads in dismay.  Many Black Guild members are outraged, demanding that the practice of purchasing votes be made illegal and pointing at the obvious links between the Society and their Puppet Prefect.

Of greater concern to the Red Guild's candidate is the effect the rumors are having on independent voters who have yet to reach the voting booth.  The irony is not lost on many of them that a 'Champion of Justice' would allow corruption of this manner in their race.  Previous questions of the hypocrisy of a 'Fallen Paladin' running on a platform of 'justice' resurface along with doubts of her suitability to fairly lead as a Director.

While the Red Guild tries to play this down, the Black Guild fans the flames, suggesting that if the Prefect were truly an advocate of justice, she would step down from the running amidst the scandal of purchased votes; that accepting them amounts to her first act of corruption as a Director, before she even takes a seat.

::[ Eleint 30th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The streets are silent and forgotten campaign posters flutter by in a town where just hours before, jubilant throngs celebrated the election of former Prefect Abala Quickfeet to the Directorate.  Taking a moment to enjoy their victory, many Red Guild members took to the House of Heroes to get a drink and carouse, while the new Director saw to the very first duties of her new role.

The Black Guild, though disappointed, showed restraint in voicing any anger at the outcome.  Quietly and without fanfare, the Black Guild Candidate, Narvis Naerfaine, was raised to the Prefecture, some say as a bid towards the next election.

With the Directorate scheduled to convene in three days time, many wonder what the future holds for Sanctuary, if the fears of an Ordinant controlled Directorate will hold true or a litany of new laws might follow the Tyrran's assumption of office.

::[ First of Marpenoth : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Strange scenes around the boneyard in the Sanctuary Inbetween are noticed as furtive figures wander about it...

When pressed, they simply repeat a strange mantra.  They allude to a time in the not too distant future, and seem to make preparations for something.  A ritual, perhaps?

And the time...?

((1030GMT))

::[ First of Marpenoth : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::



To the Bonepit of the In-Between, the Boneyard, and along the road leading to Fort Mur, they were told to come, at the hour of blood.  

And so they came, and well named the hour was, as portals were opened to a strange arena, within which an representative of the once-dead god Targus was presiding.  He brought forth treasures to show to those who would dare do the holy rite of battle within the confines of his plane, and so it came to pass.

Among the many skirmishes that were presided over, an interesting sight:  twisted and tormented creatures from Ymph, in these dark times a rare sight, now brought forth to the plane to do the bidding of the bloody master of the arena.  Many risked their body and soul for the trinkets and artifacts presented earlier.

It was not only the creatures brought forth that were strange.  Among the participants - Drow elves, Deep Gnomes, and even Goblins came forward.  And bloody battle was had between them - over a powerful sounding artifact that was a wheel of Earth, or so was told by the master of the arena.  Yet it was not the Powerful Dark Elves, nor the Sturdy Deep Gnomes, who prevailed, but a halfling named Booker who took the prize.  
 
But the end of the games took a sour turn, as in the grand melee, while many adventurers bravely battled a Great Wyvern beast, still others hid in the sidelines, biding their time to strike.  Two friends, who won out, over all who fought, and then battled in an unshowmanlike spar before the wrathful representatives of Targus.

But the spectators were not to be denied their sport.  The two friends were made to battle each other to the death - the avarice for an artifact being placed above the bonds of friendship.  And so the halfling known as Drogor Splints killed his friend Blake Kendon, in front of a shocked colosseum audience - one of his brothers watching onward.

The bitter taste left in many mouths remains.  His brothers swore bloody vengeance.  Prefect Abala reminded Sanctuary that this is the consequence of bloodsport.  But treasure and honorable battle is a mainstay of these citizens lives, and life, at least for some, will go on.

::[ Marpenoth 5th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

As rumors of Deep Gnomes, Drow, and worse prowling the near-Dark trickle down to the ears of the common citizenry, the last thing Sanctuary needed was a band of Cyricists terrorizing the area.  The depth of the Mad Prince's respect for the desire of Sanctuary's citizens has been felt, though, as Cyric's cultists -- violent cultists -- have made their presence felt.

A trial was held for the Tychan Acacia Vigne for her role in the death and capture of several citizens by the cultists.  It is rumored that she gambled with their lives, offering them to the Cyricists for the simple roll of a die.  While many condemn the act as malicious frivolity, others comment that it was the only chance to save men and women whose lives were otherwise forfeit.

The Priestess was spared of the charges of outright murder and fined for her role, while citizens grumble that not enough is being done about the real problem, that of murderers stalking the tunnels.

::[ Marpenoth 10th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Amidst the strife and troubles plaguing the citizens of Sanctuary, the governing body continues to carry on, ensuring day to day operations flow as smoothly as possible.

The Directorate met in private to discuss current events and policies.  None know the exact nature of the discussion, but many were surprised when Director Edgin Crane stormed out of the meeting, muttering about Director Abala Quickfeet's "Red Directorate" and complaining that if that was her attitude, then he might as well not attend any future meetings.

As the rumors circulated, Red Guild members simply shrugged, noting that the Black Guild had their time and now it was, indeed, a 'Red Directorate'; those in the Black Guild point out that this is what they were afraid would happen, that the Red Guild was use this opportunity to seize direct control and push policies too far towards their aims.  Together with the extension of time between elections and Director Kingsley's seat being next in contention, many grumble about the Red power grab and the potential consequences for Sanctuary.

::[ Marpenoth 11th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The latest source of political tension was revealed when the Chief Herald made a grand announcement that the Directorate had granted official charter to Zsigmond Kadar and his Wayfinders.  Officially named Wayfinder-Captain, his Wayfinders were granted authority over Citizens outside of the Shield and specific tasks towards securing outside interests for Sanctuary.

Noticeably absent from the House of Governance during the proclamation was Director Edgin Crane.  Detractors of the 'Red Directorate' point to the obvious cronyism in the lines of succession, with Kingsley raising Quickfeet to power and now Quickfeet granting Kadar an official role in Sanctuary's government.  Resentment towards sweeping Red Policies is building at a steady pace.

::[ Marpenoth 12th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

It began with a curious and alarming sending....

  :[ Spellguard Broadcast : Attention citizens. Sanctuary defense forces are hereby ordered to mobilize. A Class B threat is approaching the Dunwarren Ruins. Citizens are advised to go indoors and await further instructions. End broadcast.  ]::

Following the sending, gigantic war machines lumbered forth from hidden warehouses as Upper Sanctuary's defenses whirred into power. A siren sounded as flickering lights emanated from pylons and Watchers mustered from the barracks.

And yet no attack was forthcoming, so as was soon revealed it was the Lower Wards that was under a potential threat. A modest fleet of three drow vessels had sailed up the old Dunwarren Canal and anchored within the dilapidated ruins with a motley band of dozens of drowish pirates, corsairs, and soldiers demanding audience with one of the Directors of Sanctuary.

Director Abala Quickfeet in the company of a full thirty or more adventurers, Watchers, and others descended along with a representative of the Spellguard and several lumbering animatronic war machines. It is believed that the Director and the sinister drow Pirate Lord Captain D'rul, a flamboyant figure dressed in a remarkable lavender coat, bandied words about in reference to the conflict between the svirfneblin of Sapphire Isle and the drowish armada of pirates and Traensyr-survivors. Apparently Captain D'rul offered great prizes and aid for the support of Sanctuary in locating and crushing the mysterious Sapphire Isle of the dark gnomes. It is whispered that this was but the latest culmination of weeks of fierce subterfuge involving both the svirfneblin and drow groups and their deadly conflict between each other. The drow spoke at length of the virtues of alliance, and ended with a dire warning - if Sanctuary refused their offer of friendship, then they would become a target of assault.

After the drow vessels departed, the Sanctuary Directorate held a hurried conference within the House of Governance. After what is said to be fierce debate, apparently a consensus was reached in which a public referendum seeking permission for Sanctuary to go to war would be held. The referendum would be an opportunity for all Sanctuary citizens to weigh in upon the conflict. The details of this unprecedented referendum are seemingly to be announced later.

::[ Marpenoth 15th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Voting for the special referendum to decide whether the Directorate will be empowered to seek alliance and declare war has begun. Although it is a subject of great debate and discussion, few of the simpler folk who populate Starag's Rest and the Public Housing Vault are seen to be voting... it seems that this question will be largely decided by the adventurers and mercenaries most likely to make up Sanctuary's fighting forces.

::[ Marpenoth 17th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Rumors spread of the infamous gang 'The Sons of Cyric' conducting an insidious ritual to bring forth some manner of fish-demon in the old Lower Sanctuary Fortress. Scattered reports suggest that although they succeeded in bringing forth the demon to terrorize Dunwarren, they and and the demon were ultimately destroyed by the combined forces of Sanctuary's adventurers and other, more mysterious denizens of the 'dark...

Some say it started because Upper officials were seen parading in Lower. Some say it was long overdue. Others say it's because Upper folks empty their shitting bowls down the chasms that lead down... But whatever the reasons, many a thug, or desperate-a-man took arms and barricaded the In Between. Within moment adventurers, Watchers, and opportunist pain bearers engaged the rioters, leaving nothing but bloodied corpses on the ground... Nothing good will come of this, says the commoner...

::[ Marpenoth 26th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Several rumors, as of late:

A rothe-hunter passing the lands near Fort Mur claims he witnessed explosions of fire and heard sounds of an naval battle occurring somewhere out in the midst of the vast Dark Lake.

A group of foragers looking for shellfish report that several badly burned drow vessels were found washed up along the shore. Curiously, judging from the mangled and burned bodies found, it was drow fighting among drow, with not a drop of svirfneblin blood to be seen...

Meanwhile, in Sanctuary, it's said that the Special Referendum has as much as passed and only a formal announcement of war has yet to be declared. Director Quickfeet it seems has been busily hammering out the diplomatic arrangements of an alliance with the svirfneblin of mysterious Sapphire Isle. It is likely that soon Sanctuary will be at war.

:[ Marpenoth 28th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Several hours after Director Abala Quickfeet announced that Sanctuary had declared war upon the Dark Lake Drow Armada, several large explosions were set off in Starag's Rest. The explosives were not of great potency, and more victims were badly burned rather than killed.... yet it was nonetheless a great shock to the common and humble folk of Starag's Rest.

Rumor suggests that most of 'Snaphiss' kobolds responsible, perhaps allied with the drow, were destroyed while they sought to escape from the scene of their terrible crime.

:[ Marpenoth 30th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

There is a shockwave of fear and concern that runs through Sanctuary at the news of the blinding, by none other than some terrible agent of the Drow, of Wayfinder-Captain Zsigmond Kadar. With Sanctuary gearing up for war, many now question the fervor with which the city made this decision, wondering how many more will fall victim to the Drow.

Watchers are seen to be tense and troupes of Auxiliaries march through the streets. The Workmill, despite the ongoing lack of copper, hammers out blades, bolts, and ballista in preparation for the conflict to come. The city waits with baited breath, as the lower city hunkers down...

With wild rumors of drow threats (http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?t=90776) and frightening negotiations transpiring beneath Sanctuary's feet in the slums of Lower below, a steady stream of refugees begins to head from Lower to various locales of supposed safety: the majority to hidden places in the ruins, but many also opt for the Public Housing Vaults of Upper above. Various elves, faces streaked with Lower's grime, are also seen to be entering into the Garden of the Lost in Upper above once more. A few are said to even head out into the wilderness.

A deadly quietly comes upon Lower Sanctuary....

:[ First of Uktar : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

... all of Lower's baddest and most dangerous seemingly mobilized to defend their home from the apparent imminent Drow Threat. Although the first drow emissary was not provided the sought after ten rings, a second and far more frightened messenger soon arrived with a most curious and alarming message:

Quote"I have been told to offer the greetings of Captain D"rul, who admires your courage in the face of certain annihilation...

.... he bids me say that he has long sought a port for his fleet, and had hoped to conquer Sapphire Isle.....

.... alas that its illusion has not been so easily breached....

... his intentions, therefore, are to claim his port.... here. He shall take your Canal, and make it his own...

... he wishes to inform you. That he will be coming. With the full strength of himself and his followers.....

... in some darks time. And that if you think to keep him from his prize....

... you had best be prepared far better than now!

// The timing of this event is subject to the OOC availability of certain key players, but tentatively I am hoping for sometime evening GMT in this coming week or perhaps next weekend. Date and time will be announced (http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?p=380822#post380822).//

::[ Uktar 7th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

As Sanctuary`s motley defensive forces prepare themselves for uncertain conflict, there is a certain chilling to the air... a certain scent of brimstone, ever so faint.... characters attuned to planar matters or sensitive to magical emanations might detect the shuddering presence of some new evil.... .. distant still, somewhere, lurking out in the Lake.... but waiting.

As a group of adventurers lingered in Freedom Square discussing preparations, a scaled kobold covered in explosives and with a stolen ring placed upon its gnarled finger emerged from invisibility, screaming that 'Captain D'rul sends his regards!' as he tossed fire bombs about. His final act was to detonate the explosives strapped to his body, and a number of adventurers were badly burned....

A curious rumor spreads rapidly through the frightened citizenry of Upper and Lower..... several mercenary barges and sloops appearing from the gloom of the Dark Lake to join the anchored Armada just outside the mouth of the old Canal...

::[ Uktar 7th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The battle for the Canal Ward has been fought and decided, and although the Sanctuary Directorate was quick to claim victory it has been - at best - a tragic and bloody one.

The events of Ugly Uktar 7 began with a series of increasingly powerful earthquakes that shook the great vaults and caves of lower Dunwarren and the surrounding areas. Although the cause for these earthquakes is not fully understood, it is widely believed that it was the work of the mysterious allied Svirfneblin of Sapphire Isle who are understood to have acquired the mysterious Earth Wheel Relic.

Some hours after, there was the terrible, mournful, echoing sound of drowish war horns being blown from the Armada docked at the mouth of the Canal. A terrible assault soon followed.

Shambling undead emerged, crawling, from the murky waters of the Canal. Crude mercenary sloops and barges pushed through the Canal and, even as the ships were smashed by catapults and Spellguard Artillery Animatrons, the desperadoes swam to the shore and engaged with all the might of Sanctuary that awaited them.

The wave of mercenaries was followed by a great fleet of Snaphiss Kobolds in tiny canoes who, despite their bombs and wily kobold tactics, were slaughtered in great numbers.

At last came an old Traensyrian Naval Galleon covered with flags and imagery of Lolth. The Galleon swiftly became the target of choice, and was blasted with powerful artillery. Burning with flames, the Galleon crashed onto the Central Isle and disgorged various Lolthite Soldiers and - most terrifyingly - a massive eight-legged demon, some manner of servant of Lolth who proclaimed herself Nauzghana of the Webbed Pits. The demon rampaged through the forces arrayed against her, slaughtering many, until at last she came to blows with the most potent of the svirfneblin elementals, said to be the once tiny gnome Tomber Schnick empowered by mysterious earth magic. As the demon was slowly weakened, at last a powerful ritual succeeded in banishing her to the Pits from which she came. The battle was over - for the moment.

Of particular note in the fighting:

A war band of perhaps thirty Svirfneblin Warriors and their Stone Friends met their forces head on, and fought with great bravery, but very few are said to have survived.

Elsewhere in the Canal Ward such proud Lowersmen as the Scrapper Scamps, the Hundred Hounds Mercenaries, Jarik Blake, and righteous Hoarite Isma'il Al Hassaan fought bravely and well, defending the alleyways and road that led to Lower proper. Many old Lowersmen in the Crone were quick to toast the names of the brave and dead who fought for their home in the darks that followed.

The forces of Upper Sanctuary under the command of Director Abala Quickfeet set up a fortification in one of the ledges that overlooked the canal itself. Understanding that some manner of infernal visitor had joined the Armada, Prefect Narvis Naerfaine and Kennet Mercer, ably assisted by other arcanists, prepared the ritual of banishment that ultimately succeeded in ejecting the demon from the Prime.

Others groups such as the Spellguard (under the command of Agents Sykes and Robal), the Watchers (under the command of Sergeant Thrar and Inspector Duststone) and the House of Healing (Kellyn Carter among others) were instrumental to the battle's victory. It is said that even the mad-dancing halfling Drogor Splints was seen making an appearance to battle a group of particularly fierce Orog Mercenaries.

... when the fighting was at last finished, and the stench of death and brimstone cleared the air, some began to remark that only undead, mercenaries, ill-equipped drow, and Lolthites had been sent into the battle. Of the Corsairs under the command of Captain D'rul himself, only a single had been present - the feared Corsair Jaezril Baen`dar, who with wild suicidal bravado charged the fortifications on his own.

What had happened to the bulk of Pirates and Corsairs who made up the loyal members of Captain D'ruls fleet?


Alas, it was a question soon answered. A lone svirfneblin vessel soon sailed desperately into the Canal, and its single gnomish pilot proclaimed - with horror and tears - that during the course of the fighting, the Sapphire Isle illusory shield had faltered or failed or somehow been disabled, and that the island was under assault.

In a state of panic, the remaining Svirfneblin and uninjured Allies piled into three Svirfneblin War Barges and set sail to Sapphire Isle. Would it be too late to save the gnomish home?

The lumbering war barges, packed with Sanctuary's warriors, eventually came into sight of Captain D'rul's fleet, and so commenced furious naval combat. Grappling guns were fired, and brave warriors fought from deck to deck against the finest warriors and corsairs that made up the the Armada. It was a terrible slaughter and many brave heroes were slain. Even the great svirfneblin heroes Brocc Rockhewer and Gloik Schnepeck are said to have met their ends after courageously being the first to leap across to waiting drow vessels. Champions Wayfinder 'Madeyes' Booker and Ordinant Algarn Granitesoul as well as The Hundred Hounds Mercenaries are said to have made a great difference in the fierce naval combat that was at last won, slaying at last the feared drow 'Obliterator' who had been left in command of Captain D'rul's flagship.

With various Corsair ships fleeing the battle, the way to Sapphire Isle was clear.

The Island, no longer shrouded by the illusory veil so curiously similar to Sanctuary's own, was revealed. Smoke poured up from buildings, and half-drunken drow pirates staggered about the crudely slaughtered corpses of Sapphire Isle's defenseless gnomes. Cruel and insidious Captain D'rul's plan had to come to fruition - distract the gnomes and Sanctuary's forces by sending disposable mercenaries and unreliable allies into the Canal, while at the same time attacking the undefended island.

But he had not counted upon the retaliation that followed.

The war barges docked on the Island, and the remaining pirates were slain. Captain D'rul himself was found having taken the remaining gnomish Elder Skroanslunk hostage, and although an agreement was reached by which he could leave if he left the Elder unharmed - the cruel drow seemed to be unable to help himself to a final bit of sadistic cruelty, and slew the Elder before attempting his escape. Agent Sykes of the Spellguard used some manner of powerful device to destroy his little boat, and the lavender-jacketed Captain was pursued through waters and the island until, finally, he was killed.

But the fighting was seemingly not over. Although accounts are unclear, it's reported that the svirfneblin levied wild accusations against Sanctuary's forces, particularly the Spellguard, and there was a brief moment of fighting in between members of the two supposedly-allied groups. In the confusion, the svirfneblin hero Sidari Plickenstilt met his end by a sword blow not from drow, but by Sanctuary soldier...

Eventually, exhausted and mostly deeply confused by the wild accusations and fighting, Sanctuary's forces withdrew from the Island and returned to Sanctuary.

Perhaps as a final work from the earlier ritual of earth magic, a massive dome of elemental stone now covers Sapphire Isle. If nothing else, it seems the bones of dead gnomes and drow alike will not be disturbed. The fate of the few surviving members of Sapphire Isle or even the surviving drow members of D'rul's Armada is completely unknown.


Back in Sanctuary, Director Gould delivered a brief speech, declaring victory and congratulating the veterans for what was accomplished.

Although the battle's resolution has proved to be terribly tragic, if nothing else, Sanctuary has proven it has teeth.

::[ Uktar 10th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The wounds of war still seep when Sanctuary is suddenly gripped in a frenzy as a murderer rampaged through the streets.  Many people lost their lives as Dory McBlatt, the 'Sun Killer', expanded from murdering only her kin and their rivals into a seemingly haphazard slaughter of any innocent victim that presented an opportunity to her cursed blade.

It is said that she was captured more than once, but spirited away by men somehow enscorcelled to her bidding.  Her downfall came as yet another of her kin presented a target too enticing to pass up and she was lured into the relative open of the square.  Taken down and rushed to the cells of the Watchhouse, rumors proclaim that Director Abala Quickfeet had the woman executed on the spot.  Black Guild members were too shocked by the violence of the day to note any overzealous use of her power in the moment, though the following day saw tongues wagging.

The Mausoleum counted more than 10 bodies ripped apart by the Sun Killer's dagger and more families weep with the passing of their loved ones.

::[ The 12th of Uktar, 1383 DR ]::

There is a buzz about Upper Sanctuary, centered about the House of Governance. Civil servants of various ranks whisper rumours of Director Kingsley having nominated someone for the position of Prefect.

In many of these whispered rumours, one name is constantly mentioned: Trudeau Dreyfus. While most newcomers to Sanctuary might not recognize the name. Many of the long-serving civil servants speak the name with fondness and nodding approvals.

A number of commoners who have lived in Sanctuary for years also say good things of the man, indicating that he was a popular figure who was key in keeping relations between the Sanctuary government and various factions. especially the Society of the Ordered Mind, amicable and smooth.

The rumours and whispers spread throughout Sanctuary like wildfire. With the upcoming Uktar elections on the horizon, many speak of Dreyfus' supposed nomination as the Red Guild scoring decent political points amongst the populace.

::[ The 14th of Uktar, 1383 DR ]::

Confirming rumours that began circulating a few days ago, Chief Herald Penelope Castling announced that the Trudeau Dreyfus had been nominated for the position of Prefect by Director Rhiannon Kingsley and that a majority vote by the Directorate saw the nomination approved.

Prefect Dreyfus spoke a few words regarding his new position. Jesting with a few light-hearted words at first, he moved on to say that support and appreciation shown to him needs to be given to all of Sanctuary. For such  would make Sanctuary a strong city that did not need to fear what lies out in the Dark.

The crowd reacted positively to Dreyfus' appointment and speech. Though Black Guild supporters mostly held a stoic silence considering that Dreyfus wore the colours of the Red Guild. To some surprise amongst the crowd, Prefect Narvis Naerfaine of the Black Guild personally approached Dreyfus to exchange handshakes.

Some took heart in the Black Guild Prefect's public act. Others, however, murmured about how he subtly inserted a few political jabs into his words to Dreyfus before the two parted ways.

::[ The 15th of Uktar, 1383 DR ]::

A day following Trudeau Dreyfus' appointment to Prefect, Chief herald Penelope Castling made the announcement that the Uktar election cycle would see the Guilds vying for control of the Second Seat of the Directorate, currently held by Director Rhiannon Kingsley.

Black Guild supporters note with that Kingsley's appointment of yet another Ordinant friendly supporter to a powerful and visible position in the government is not coincidental, nor is the timing.  Red Guild supporters dismiss the claims of cronyism, confident that the popularity of Director Kingsley will hold.

None were surprised, then, when the Director announced her intention to keep her seat.  Neither was there any surprise when Director Murik announced that Prefect Narfaine would once again run for the opportunity to sit upon the Directorate.  There are some jokes that Prefect Dreyfus will continue the tradition of new Prefects taking Directorate seats by running against Crane in the next election cycle.

Not strangely, there was more excitement to be had at Castling's announcement that the Great Games would be held on the last day of Campaigning, on the 21st of Uktar.  Players for both guilds began to put in their names for a chance at the Championship.

::[ Uktar 21st : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The games were the talk of the day, as citizens of Sanctuary eagerly awaited the contest, designed to boost the morale of the last survivors of humanity.  And a boost was indeed received for those citizens who identified with the politics of the Black Guild, as their team, led by the Wayfinder 'Madeyes' Booker, routed the Red Guild's team with seven goals over two.

Many Red Guild supporters grumbled dispiritedly at the poor performance of their team, most noting that the team felt like it had been scrabbled together last minute from a pool consisting of a field of schoolyard 'last picks'.  A few wondered that Director Quickfeet, who captained the Red Guild's team in the last game, chose not to return to the field of play.  Meanwhile, the Black Guild's team consisted of several well known, if not all well-liked, names, allowing their fans to identify more easily with the players.

Game analysts further noted that the Red Guild seemed more interested in hitting the opposing players rather than hitting the ball.  As soon as the game started, a one-armed halfling immediately attempted to tackle the Black Guild candidate, Prefect Narvis Naerfaine, only to be shocked when he quickly pulled up a major defensive conjuration which took her to the ground.

The Red Guild further made use of Earth Elementals conjured forth by their Goaltender's magic, technically not illegal by the game's rules, but a breach of the spirit of the games in the opinion of many die-hard enthusiasts.  However, the Black Guild took the brutality in stride and managed to shoulder through and score several goals, led by their Team Captain and the Prefects magic.  Holding spells guaranteed two points, one per each half, as near the entirety of the Red Guild's team was held immobile.

The highlight of the event, in the eyes of the Games most ardent purists, was a one in a million shot by Watcher Sergeant Thrar Latoneir, when from deep in his own defensive territory, in fact practically next to his own goal circle, he managed to launch the ball fully across the field, curving around the Red Guild's defenders, and into the goal circle on the other end of the arena.

In sum, the game was entertaining for all, though the seeming lack of sincerity from the Red Guild in the major event soured many to that political group.

::[ Uktar 23rd : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Whilst in Upper Sanctuary the citizens buzz around, caught up in the hustle and bustle of the elections to the Directorate, strange rumours and whisperings begin to emerge in Lower.  Grizzled gangsters and destitute workers speak in hushed tones of sinister sightings in the back alleys and sewers below, of red glowing eyes in the dark and mysterious disappearances.  A pall of fear and suspicion hangs in the air, with many inhabitants of slum ever more cautious and hostile towards strangers.  Speculation as to what precisely is happening is rife, with many blaming anything from escaped Spellguard experiments to some new danger emerging from the long forgotten depths of the Machine.  One thing is certain, the darkness beyond the bonfires of Lower is more dangerous than ever...

::[ Uktar 23rd : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

On the day after the strange tremors and odd noises that reverberated throughout the chamber housing Sanctuary, rumor and speculation still circulated wildly with stories that ranged from entirely mundane to exceptionally fantastic.  The rumors were further fueled by an ominous sending warning the Spellguard against further intrusion against the 'Sojourners' before the Herald dutifully cut the sender off.  Attempts to capture the offending individual were unsuccessful.  Eventually the tales began to coalesce into a more cohesive and accepted story, though many details remained obscure, at best.

It is said with relative certainty that the events were related to an incursion of extra planar creatures (http://www.efupw.com/forums/showpost.php?p=373369&postcount=48) that occurred over two months ago in Eleint and that those connected to that invasion were responsible for the strange happenings on the 22d of Uktar.  The prevailing belief is that a contingent of wizards and their minions have at their disposal a machine capable of manipulating planar energies, to summon extra planar monsters or create gates between worlds.  Some say they conduct sacrifices of Lowersmen to fuel their gate rituals while others insist that they have a ship capable of travel between realms, seen in Eleint.  Almost all agree that baublium plays a role in their dealings and wonder if they are responsible for recent difficulties in procuring the substance that fuels the Shield.

Given the threat posed by such mages, the Spellguard is said to have attempted to stop the group and word has further circulated that they were soundly rebuffed.  While the Serena Tower denies any casualties as the result of any meeting between the two groups, some claim that there was a spectacular magic battle between them that could not have possibly ended without grievous injury.  Many agree that the half-made sending is further proof that some entity of great arcane might, perhaps to rival the Spellguard, now resides in Lower Sanctuary.  If there were deaths, however, there has been no proof and all Agents and Auxiliary known to associate with the general population in Sanctuary seem to be accounted for.

Many worry at what this means for Sanctuary and the relations between Upper and Lower.  Some call for definitive action while others caution that moving against as yet unidentified adversary, if even they are adversaries, is rash and imprudent.  All agree that a more vigilant eye must be kept on Lower to ensure the safety of the survivors in Sanctuary and the strength of the Shield that protects them.

::[ Uktar 25th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

This dark is one of shock, scandal, and murder.

It all began with a shocking scream echoing through the caves of Upper Sanctuary. Moments later, a woman crashed upon the stone of Freedom Square, blood pooling beneath the broken form.

The scandal that followed was that Prefect Trudeau Dreyfus, the woman's grand-father, was brought to the Watchhouse in shackles. After a Watcher search of the Prefect's residence, the Prefect was formally charged with murder and an announcement of a trial followed. Commoners and supporters of both guilds filled the court room, their curiosity piqued by the trial of such an important figure.

When it was seen that Director Abala Quickfeet would preside over the trial, members of the Black Guild were quick to murmur and bemoan a biased trial, expecting the accused Prefect to walk away with--at most--a light sentence. This expectation was further reinforced when the prosecution, handled by Watch Inspector Hale Duststone, unraveled to be a weak one of conjecture, insinuations, and ineffective evidence.

However, cries of shock and disbelief came from members of the Red Guild when Director Quickfeet declared her verdict for the Red Guild supporting Prefect: guilty. The sentence? Exile, which was carried out swiftly: the Prefect stripped of his items of citizenship and forced out of the illusion.

As the court room emptied, whispers and rumour-mongering quickly changed topics to that of the Uktar Election. With Dreyfus' exiled, many spoke of how the Black Guild had a great advantage because of the damage done to the Red Guild's reputation--a Prefect raised to the position by Director Rhiannon Kingsley was not only guilty of murder but exiled from the city!

Those sporting Red badges, however, grumble and questioned just how loyal and dedicated Quickfeet is to the Red cause and to Director Kingsley's re-election.

::[ Uktar 26th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Following yet another incidence of violence, the mood prevails amongst many citizens of upper that the streets below are less safe than ever.  The latest occurrence according to the rumour mill of gossipers saw a bandit of Lower and his gang establishing a "toll booth" in the in-between ruins.  This "Big Dave" and various wanted criminals are said to have defeated a Watcher led attempt to stop their opportunism and made off with their ill gotten gains.  Many mutter about the failure of the Watchers to crack down on crime whilst in Lower cheers could be heard for this humiliation of the oft hated tyrants above.

Perhaps related, rumours also spread amidst the slums of Lower that a group of celebrants, in a state of extreme inebriation proceeded to vandalise and ransack the Temple of Hoar.  A few grim faced Doombringers have been seen stalking the streets with baleful for any suspects.

::[ Late Uktar, Nightal 3rd : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

A series of sweeping changes and grand events have captured the attention of Sanctuary's war-weary, exhausted population.

The election of Director Narvis Naerfaine, called "Naeferious" by his political opponents, and the unseating of Rhiannon Kingsley of the Society of the Ordered Mind is without a doubt the most widely-discussed event of the past few darks. Men of the guilds both Red and Black blame an anemic effort on the part of former Director Kingsley's supporters to see her reelected, though some cast blame toward the woman herself, claiming that her talents were of better use in the field, amid Black taunts that despite her longstanding service, she was not cut out for political life. Men of the Society and Oathsworn alike rebuff such charges by pointing out the stalwart expertise of the leader of the Society, placing blame on the Black Guild and their efforts to defame her character, along with the war-weary mood in the wake of the conflict on the Dark Lake.

Whatever the case, the "Red Directorate" is no more; power resides once more with the Blacks, and many wonder just how the new Director will conduct himself in office.

Those of the Black Guild who had hoped for a return to Sanctuary's isolationism were sorely disappointed by the events of the 3rd of Nightal, however. Reports from the Wayfinders of Duergar slavers transporting a group of slaves toward Fort Mur prompted the rallying of a large number of men and women from Sanctuary to strike down the murderbandits and the threat they posed to the safety of travelers in the underdark. Lead by senior Wayfinders and men of the Society, including such figures as the blinded Wayfinder-Captain Zsigmond Kadar, Commander Idraen Markem, Wayfinder-Lieutenant Melanie Coppertop, and Ordinant Rallick Dess, the bastion the Duergar had ensconced themselves behind was overrun and the captive slaves returned safely to Sanctuary. Directors Abala Quickfeet and Narvis Naerfaine were both present for the battle that took place, to the elation (and amusement) of the Reds and the dismay of many in the Black Guild.

Some manner of intrigue was reported in all this, as rumors swirl among the adventurers who returned that artifacts of the Reformed Order of the Spellguard were found in the Duergar's possession, prompting accusations from Lower of the Spellguard's collusion with slavers. Most, however, suspect that an Agent was captured or slain in the past, but nothing whatsoever is confirmed...

Such rumors aside, there is near-constant activity at the Chapterhouse of the Society of the Ordered Mind, with deliveries of weaponry and armor arriving from the Workmill near-daily. Many report new Ordinants donning the blues, and both the Watchers and Wayfinders have seen a glut of recruits in the days following the peaceful transfer of power; the second in the history of Sanctuary-That-Is.

::[ Nightal 11th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

Strange squishy flyers begin appearing outside of the Shield.  It would seem Intryzz has once again taken an interest in Sanctuary (http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?p=388286#post388286)

::[ Nightal 18th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::


The streets of Lower are quiet with residents staying behind locked doors after a terrifying night of kidnappings on the 17th dark of Nightal, purportedly committed by the group of infernalists known as "The Cult of the Flesh Forge".

Some suggest that more than ten people were taken from their homes and the very streets of Lower, for what purpose no one can agree. Hit especially hard by these acts is the elven community, as one who escaped her potential captor confirmed that four of their number were taken, though whether by intent or sheer luck is impossible to know, as elves certainly were not the only race to bear the burden.

Though reports of Ordinants leading a charge against a discovered bolthole in the dark alleys of Lower persist, others state vehemently that Lower's own Harbingers chased the cultists away.  In either case, the cult is said to still operate and the people they spirited away are still missing.

::[ Nightal 24th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The terror experienced by Lower was inconceivably brought to Upper when the Cult of the Flesh Forge, apparently using rings stolen in past days, infiltrated into the Public Housing Vault and spirited away over twenty poor individuals, including two Watchers and an Auxiliary Engineer.  The daring raid was performed quickly, with over half a dozen cultists, half-orcs and humans and their demon winged leader at the fore, rushing through the streets.

Rallying quickly, it is said that Hamish of the Hounds offered to lend his aid and Spellguard Doatelu led a force to where Mari Galefist and Wayfinder-Lieutenant Coppertop knew the Cultists had holed up.  There, it is said they faced several demons summoned by the Cults wizard, a peerless infernal conjurer.  The survivors reported that a massive demon standing as tall as two men strode forth to do battle and was only brought down by the combined might of some of Sanctuary's greatest wizards and warriors.

All was for naught when they discovered the lair had been deserted, the demon guards a ruse to buy the Cult time to make off with their victims.

In the aftermath, many are demanding to know how the Cult had gained so many rings and if a Hero might be able to stop the Cult before they strike again.

The eve of Nightal 24th was an abnormally tense one for those inhabiting the ruins of the Sanctuary Below. Strange sights of some manner of lizard, or shark-man roaming the district, bodies with slashed throats, and skirmishes amongst the alleyways are the rumours on everybody's tongue; words is that it has spoken and shouted, at times, with one common word from it's vile maw: "Hound...". The latest victim was a small boy, which has many of the usually grim-featured inhabitants a little more jaded - moreso than the apparent death of a drunk at the hands of the Upper district's officials, and an apparent surge of elementals from the Canal.

::[ Nightal 26th : Year 161 : 1383 DR ]::

The Citizenry of Sanctuary are abuzz with tales of epic battles and dark magics, with the ultimate culling of the so called 'Flesh Forge' cultists at the hands of the 'Tempering' and their allies.  The disgusting and freakish body of one of the cult leaders, a green skinned , winged demon beast called Jovesque, was paraded through the square before being disposed of in fire.

With the loss of the cultists, many believe that the time to strike the heart of the cult, their demon-loving wizard, is now, and rumors persist of a planned raid to end the cult once and for all and perhaps save whatever Citizens may still live within their clutches.

Reports from Society and Wayfinder patrols through the Badlands have, of late, been speaking of the somewhat sparse defences of Traensyr the old drow city, now in the hands of Ysinode forces. The walls, once bustling with thrall soldiers, seem eerily silent. Some say this is a good thing, whilst the more grim and cynical citizenry note that little good can come from a silent enemy. Whatever the truth of the matter remains to be seen, though like as not something will be revealed in time, for good or ill.

::[ Hammer 10th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Stories rapidly spread through Upper Sanctuary of bloody events surrounding the House of Knowledge.  It is said that a pair of minor criminals going by the names "Slim Jim" and "Pockets Maloy" set about a minor crime spree in Freedom Square, pelting citizens with laughing gas, paint bombs and attempting to make off with a large sum of gold taken from their purses.  Reports become confused at this point, with Watchers blaming adventurers and they in turn blaming others, but one thing is certain, one or more of those present savagely beat or hacked to death the thief Pockets Maloy.  

Thus enraged by the cruel murder of his friend, his accomplice called upon a gang of Lower thugs, and managed to sneak them into the House of Knowledge unopposed.  A brief siege ensued, wherein the gang took hostage a number of librarians and attached explosives to several of them.  After making their demands known, to be paid fifteen thousand gold coins and have the culprits of the killing of Pockets tried for murder, a tense standoff began.  Declaring that they would send out bodyparts taken from the captive librarians on the hour, every hour until their demands were met, citizens witnessed frantic Watchers trying to contain the situation and de-escalate rising tensions.

When the kidnappers began to shorten their time frame, a haphazard plan to scale scaffolding behind the House was abandonned as a beam canon was unleashed to blow open the doors, but not before one foolish Watcher had fallen to her death on the cold stones of Freedom Square.  A bloody skirmish thus occurred inside, with the gang being cut down, but not before three captives were killed by the panicked thugs.  

Few words abound of what later transpired upstairs in the House, but all agree that a large explosion was heard and a cloaked figure was then seen sprinting out the front door, pursued by adventurers.  Roughly one hour after this, Patriarch Lhesley Ferrick announced that the now infamous "Slim Jim" had evaded capture and was in possession of several incredibly valuable texts from the inner sanctum of the library.  A bounty of five thousand coins and an artifact from the vaults was offered to anyone who could retrieve the tomes and bring the criminal to justice...

While Upper Sanctuary is often a peaceful and subdued realm of adventurers and those awaiting in freedom square their next contract a slow undercurrent has been building. The Humanity Herald, a popular xenophobic handbill of Pro-Human sentiment has been appearing more frequently throughout the settlement.

Despite its publisher's countless hundreds of coins in fines spent for slander of the Watchers and similar minor crimes the worminger Rufus Mackarthur continues to draw the populace's attention. Some dismissing him as a bigoted joke and pathetic coward who has refused countless duels others begin to look at Sanctuary's non humans in a different light.

Numerous human adventurers and watchers have been heard uttering the word "Speck" with a sneer. The Red Guild seems to take great amusement at the feeble attempts to start a coup amongst the Black Guild to expel the non-human residents from its ranks with upcoming elections looming. The name Lord Connel-Smythe Falconer, a Black Guild Wayfinder, has been on the lips of many as more and more criminals fall to his spear and his Prefect petition continues circulate. Sanctuarian dwarves, halflings, gnomes, elves, half-orcs and half-elves alike though have been seen nervously avoiding large groups of humans as tensions continue to rise...

::[ Hammer 16th : 1384 DR ]::

This dark, the area surrounding the Dark Lake was rocked by a large number of tremors and earthquakes.

Rumours spread of a group of Stewards and their Guardians, along with other wildsfolk who make their home in the natural caves of the Underdark, making their way to an island upon the lake within the maw of a gigantic lake-inhabiting beast.

The area around the lake fell quiet for a time but then an immense pillar of light appeared upon some island of the lake, its light shining brilliantly and flaring with great intensity before dissipating.

What consequences the events upon the isle have wrought is yet to be seen, but those well versed in the magics of the natural world note some subtle changes in the ley magic in the caves of the Underdark.

::[ Hammer 21st : 1384 DR ]::

In the wake of Spellguard Agent Doatelu Robal's death, a sending was made announcing a procession that would travel from Serena Tower to Freedom Square where the departed Agent would then be remembered. Bells from somewhere within Serena Tower rang as the procession made its way, at the centre of which was a tall Spellguard Defender animatron, one that many noted had served alongside the slain Agent.

As the the procession came to a halt within Freedom Square, the ringing bells fell silent. The crowd within the square grew as more and more citizens congregated to listen to colleagues and friends of the fallen Agent offer a number of eulogies.

As the kind words came to an end, however, a sharp and piercing screech stabbed the mind of everyone holding a sending stone. Words spoken by a woman's voice followed...

QuoteOh... Oh Hells... I think I got something in my eye... That was just... Just so sweet... So beautiful... But... It's time to dry your eyes, ladies and gents. The time for mourning's over. Why? Cause it's TIME FOR BLOODY!

Panic quickly swept through Upper Sanctuary as those familiar with the voice explained that it belonged to a terrorizing bandit who had been active long ago. A bandit who had just announced that she had planted a bomb within the city. Citizens quickly fell into a mad scramble, goaded on by the bandit's taunting hints of the bomb's location.

After twenty minutes of desperate searching, a large barrel was rushed out of the House of Trade upon the shoulders of a dwarven Watch Sergeant. The Sergent threw the barrel over an edge and into a chasm just in time as it exploded a mere second afterwards. The shock wave from the explosion caused dust to fall and the ground to rumble

In time, the tremors passed and the stones of Upper Sanctuary fell silent. Frightened and dismayed whispers, however, grew in volume amongst the populace for Mad Marge Miggsley the Scrapgirl had return.

::[ Hammer 23rd : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Scavengers and paupers have begun to report finding a series of gruesome scenes in the sewers of Lower Dunwarren. On more than one occasion a ratcatcher has returned wan-faced to the Crone to tell of the carnage he has witnessed: the dismembered bodies of Chosen torn limb from limb, splattered across the floor like over ripe fruit crushed under the wheel of an apple cart.

Already the rumours have begun as to what manner of nightmare could be responsible for such savagery. By the nature of the injuries sustained to the Chosen, some have suggested an ogre has taken up residence in the steamworks. Others have conjectured that a large defense animatron has found its way to that part of the sewers. Yet one or two whisper of something far more sinister: that they had felt themselves watched as they explored the aqueducts, stalked as if by the shadow of death itself...

::[ Hammer 23th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Rumor speaks of large quantities of peculiar, distorted undead clambering and digging and crawling about in the Crossroads Caves. A huge number of Sanctuary's adventurers rallied forth to destroy this new threat, with a large group heading forth further to destroy the source of them. Among wild rumor and frightful word, can oft be heard the phrase.... 'Accursed Hammer 23rd'

It is said that those who went forth to deal with such a terrible threat returned bringing with them the lingering traces of the Withering Curse.

23rd of Hammer, Year 162, 1384 DR

Following the conclusion of the expedition, a heated debate rose in the Halls of Governance regarding the status of the afflicted. Spellguard broadcasts proclaiming the removal of citizenship and immediate expulsion of those carrying the withering led to a quarantine in the Halls of Governance, where Director Naerfaine, Segeant Bjornsson, Ordinant Dess and Jayesh of the Causril Commune took their stand alongside their supporters. Protesting against what they proclaimed as a coup and break of diplomatic ties, they refused to depart the shield. Director Quickfeet, Agent Mackarthur, Watcher Foltyn and others did their best to contain the situation and ensure the withered did not threaten the rest of the city. Eventually Quickfeet's assembly was able to move the withered into exile until the Directorate could decide upon the matter.

In the aftermath the majority of the outspoken citizenry has agreed with the actions of Director Quickfeet, saying Director Naerfaine and the rest thoughtlessly risked Sanctuary by returning to its streets in the full knowledge they carried the curse. A sizable Black number applaud the swift actions of the halfling director, calling it a surprising but welcomed touch of Black ideology enforcing a previous decision and law of Sanctuary that has yet to make its noticeable marks in the books of law.

While the public is in favor of the imposed exile, a majority especially among the Red political party laud the group which sought to end such a terrible threat to the last bastion of safety. Some echo the propaganda of Naerfaine that this should indeed be officially commended.

As Sanctuary breaths again easier after the political turmoil, eyes are now set upon the Directorate awaiting a decision regarding the withered. Will they stand with the previous accord that all citizens carrying the withering are to be expelled into the Withering Pit, condemning important officials and others to the embrace Sanctuary below? Or will they allow the recently withered to retun within the shield, showing that the actions of the months past may have been unjust to the people evicted below?

::[ Hammer 29th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

On this day a number of Sanctuarians were led beyond The Shield by a man known as Rauvorus to conduct a religious ceremony in the name of Helm. A placard was erected outside the old gates of Dunwarren, some twenty paces from the door of the ruined Helmite Shrine, espousing the virtue of vigilance and commending those that watch on in his name.

Shortly thereafter, an enthralled Drow scouting party arrived, and upon taking note of the sign, ordered a full survey of the hazy devastated ruins that cloak Upper Santuary. Such was the volume of drones and creatures that arrived to search the ruins for signs of sentient life that citizens reported glimpsing ghostly silhouettes of drones and aberrant creatures beyond The Shield, seemingly moving around Freedom Square, waxing and waning as the illusion shimmered and fluctuated.

While many Sanctuarians battened down the hatches and held their breath as the Dread Army conducted its search, a small minority of citizens panicked and decided to remove their rings and attack the aberrations. A group of between half a dozen to a dozen adventurers, led by the Ordinant Baelian Kalvath, suicidally removed their rings and were ripped to pieces by the horrors that awaited them beyond.

This grave breach of security has given Sanctuary a terrible scare, and the Spellguard and Directorate have been seen working tirelessly to both ensure that the integrity of The Shield and the location of Sanctuary was not compromised during this incident, and further, to ensure that this never happens again...

::[ 1st Alturiak : 1384 DR ]::

The beginning of the new month brought little, if any, relief to the common people of Upper Sanctuary. Instead, the crises of the past few darks linger as ever present reminders of Sanctuary's precarious existence.

Despite the trial and subsequent execution of the man many deemed responsible for attracting a Dread scouting party to the city, the common folk continue to whisper with worry and anxiety. Some wonder just how long it will be before another adventurer foolishly attracts the attention of the Dread to their home once again.

Worried words are also spoken of adventurers who may or may not be carrying the Withering Curse. Even though many have offered reassurances that the curse is not in anyway contagious and note that those who do carry the Curse have been ordered to carry an identify badge, many adventurers--especially those of pale and unhealthy complexion--are given a wide berth on the streets and in public areas. Despite there being no reliable way to identify indications of the curse early on, many common people keep their distance from adventurers on the presumption of a mere possibility, no matter how minute, that perhaps any adventure could somehow contract the curse while out on their adventures.

More recently, Watchers can be overheard speaking with common residents about a small rise in missing children who have disappeared from seemingly open, public, and previously thought safe places such as the laneways of the residential flats and Simms Square in the public housing vault. A handful of families are grief stricken over the fact that their boy and girl haven't been seen in darks now. Neighbouring families fret and fuss with the unanswered question of where these children have gone while clutching their own children tightly.

::[ First of Alturiak : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

It began with an ill wind, a howling gale that swept down upon the city of Dunwarren from the depths of the dark.  Amidst the gathering storm innumerable lights were seen, spectral forms of great wolves, predatory cats and savage men astride steeds born of nightmare.  At the gates of Dunwarren spews of blood and crimson light battled for prominence with flashes of sinister lightning that plowed furrows in the black stone of the earth.  The confluence of fearsome power continued for some time, building to a frenzied crescendo and hailing the arrival of a solitary figure, flanked by enormous ghostly felines.  

Shrouded in shadows, this creature spoke in a voice that boomed across the Underdark with reverberations of power.  It's demands, and its offer are agreed upon by most to be simple enough.  That in TWO darks hence that a great Hunt would be called for the worthiest to test themselves against one another, with death for the defeated and enormous savage power for the lone victor.  After delivering this ominous declaration the individual vanished amidst another display of power, leaving only a deathly silence in his wake...

::[ 2nd of Alturiak : 1384 DR ]::

Shortly after the announced capture of the wanted criminal known as Shaakara, a panicked resident of the Public Housing Vault made a sending saying that Molly, the child bartender of the Beetle and Baby, had been taken hostage by what appeared to be a green-glowing zombie.

As adventurers rushed towards the Vault, they found a horrifying scene unfolding within Starag's Rest: the hostage taker was a heavily withered Jayesh of the Causril Commune. Held in his arm was Molly who whimpered and cried fearfully. In one hand, he held a strange rotted fruit, covered in maggots and twisting roots.

Witnesses within Starag's Rest speak of ineffective negotiations despite the efforts of Ex-Watcher Ksenia Foltyn offering to take Molly's place. Seconds after Jayesh learned that Shaakara had already been trialed and executed, someone threw a pouch of choking powder into the mix, causing all out chaos to erupt.

When the cloud of powder finally cleared, Jayesh was gone, presumably having escaped down through the Worm Pits, chased after by a few adventurers. Molly, however, lay upon the ground, the rotted fruit pressed against her chest. The strange thing was removed by others but the maggots and roots had already done their work and Molly had taken on a pale and sickly complexion.

The fears of the common folk of Upper Sanctuary were proven this dark as the Withering claimed another...

::[ Alturiak 6th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Following the Great Hunt of Malar, a Champion was announced.  Decreed in blood upon the walls of the arena, Kavruun Benegor was named the bearer of the Heart of the Hunt.  Evidently not content with the blood letting during the Great Hunt, the servants of the Beastlord further declared that which was won in savage violence must be held by the same and encouraged all hunters great and small to track down and kill the new Champion, thus taking his mantle for themselves.

Amongst the strange happenings of these few darks, a rumour has spread from Lower with frenzied speed.  It is said that as many were settling down to sleep, an enormous werewolf with burning red eyes sprang from the tunnel leading to the Pissing Crone and fled the Lower Wards into the canal district, hotly pursued by two heavily armed figures.  The men of the slum eye strangers with deep suspicion and women hurry their offspring inside at any disturbance.  The heavy pall of fear hangs over the streets at the prospect of yet another Lycanthropic infestation...

::[ Alturiak 18th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Rumor spreads of a bold and audacious assassination or kidnapping attempt on Director Abala Quickfeet that took place outside the Gates. It's said that a band of brightly colored Lowersmen favoring colors of gold and white were responsible, and that the indomitable Director was twice driven down into Upper before the defense forces could be fully mustered and the bold Lowersmen forced to make their escape into the 'dark.

With it being the first assassination attempt on a Director since the dark days of the Sanctuary-that-was, many citizens whisper with fear of the possibility of there being a return to the bad old days of bombings, murder, and armed insurrection...

::[ Alturiak 20th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Commoners speak of a serie of melees that broke in the in-between opposing the Sanctuary loyalists against Ascensionists & Battle-thirsty ruffians -- following the kidnappings and mugging of several adventurers in the sewers by Mad Marge and her cronies.

A Spellguard agent was taken hostage which led Director Abala to organize a war party of ragtags and adventurers to reclaim its defender. However, before all-out warfare broke out -- the Agent was returned in a colorful clown outfit with a ticking bomb upon its chest. The sight sent most into a panic before the bomb, a dud, exploded into a mist of colorful fireworks.

While most of the war party disbanded, a party decided still to descend upon Lower Sanctuary, weapons in hand. They were greeted by a mob of pitchfork along with Mad Marge, her revolutionaries and the Ascensionists. Most of the adventurers were driven back, but not before Mad Marge made out with their savings...

A Spellguard broadcast calling Wayfinders and Associates to Serena Tower was heard around middark on the 21st of Alturiak.

Some uneventful hours later, reports from those who dare to wander outside of the shield speak of an exodus of disheveled and malnourished individuals leaving Serena Tower and heading down towards the Sanctuary below.

Who these ragged and torn newcomers may be is something that remains to be seen.

The large influx of newcomers to Lower has already begun to make an impact.  Understood to be convicts from somewhere on the surface, criminals of all stripe have started to lay claim to the empty alleyways and streets of Lower.  New gangs have emerged and competition over turf is fierce.  Knifing's, burglaries and muggings have increased dramatically as in Upper worried citizens whisper about the beginnings of a potential "crime wave".  

Several larger brawls have broken out within and without the crone, with Lowersmen talking of a particularly rowdy fist fight between a dozen members of the "Varad-Azuul Family" and their associates against the native "Dirty Whiskers".  As the dust settled the dwarves of the "Family" are said to have emerged thoroughly triumphant whilst their foes crawled away to nurse broken bones and savage bruises.

The future of Lower remains uncertain, as speculation runs rife above and below as to how bad this instability may grow...

::[ Alturiak 24th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

The gruesome scenes that many have witnessed in the sewers have become a less regular occurrence. The burst and torn bodies of Chosen are happened upon only occasionally now, though the consensus seems to suggest that this is not because The Thing in The Sewers has been dealt with... Far from it.

Instead, The Chosen seem to be enjoying something of a resurgence. Their movements have grown more organised, their ambushes have become more sophisticated, and their incursions into areas of the Dunwarren ruins populated by humanoid races have become more frequent and daring.

It is clear that something, behind the scenes, is happening, though to date nobody seems to have figured out what that is...

::[ Alturiak 27th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

A momentous day for the Sanctuary-below.

The poorly-defended slum of recent-transplants and eccentric Lowersmen withstood a tremendous assault of a strange new foe: gigantic ant-creatures covered with a hideous and grotesque form of parastic-fungus. These rotting 'formians' poured through the broken and shattered Lower Sanctuary Canal Gate and were slaughtered in great numbers by  the doughty yet disorganized Lower defenders.

As the swarm of rot-ants poured past the defensive lines and into Lower Sanctuary, many vulnerable commoners were seized by the formians and dragged away. All of Lower seemed like it was about to be completely overrun when Priestess Delina Sigerlin, beset by a huge swarm of ants, performed some manner of ritual spell in her last and final moments. Wild darkness fell through the caverns of Lower, and there was a tremendous and powerful earthquake - when it was over, hundreds of formians had been crushed by a titanic cave-in collapse in which large parts of the Canal Ward and the entire Canal Gate area were buried in massive chunks of rubble.

Following the assault, a brave group of Lowersmen were tasked by Winston to strike out into the Underdark in order to rescue as many victims that had been kidnapped by the giant ants as possible. After many hours of arduous fighting far from Sanctuary, it's said that at last the heroes returned with a number of rescued and grateful men and women of Lower.

The casualties were thankfully surprisingly low during the assault, and after the shock of such a powerful cave-in many Lowersmen are heard to remark that, after all, having the vulnerable main gate cavern collapsed is more blessing than hardship.

The disaster was, however, a stern reminder of just how vulnerable the disorganized settlement of 'Lower' really is to any manner of horror that would raid it and its people.

::[ First of Ches : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

A buzz of excitement spills out of the House of Governance along with a number of commoners and Red and Black Guild supporters. The next election has been called and in addition to Director Edgin Crane's seat being up for election, the seeming disappearance of former Director Narvis Naerfaine means prospective candidates will be battling for two open seats.

All throughout Upper Sanctuary, discussions are held regarding the events of the past few months as many consider whether the Reds or the Blacks shall dominate the Directorate in the coming days. Meanwhile, others are excited at the prospects of the Sanctuary Stadium being filled with spectators for the Great Games.

Regardless of each individual's reason, many citizens in Upper Sanctuary are looking forward to the coming days.

Several hours after strange noises and vibrations were heard within Lower Sanctuary,  the curious denizens of the Sanctuary Below begin to find out the cause. Rumors trickle from person to person,  most swearing they heard it directly from a talkative off-duty Sojourner.

After weeks of being docked, the Sojourner ship finally set out on a mission to seek new planes to escape to. Though they did not find anywhere remotely habitable,  the crew did witness a fearsome battle between two other planar vessels. Further details vary, as every teller has their own embellishments upon the fight,  but all accounts agree: The Sojourners returned with the bedraggled survivors of a ship called The Stardrinker,  a curious group of freaks and adventurers who, for now, seem forced to reside within Sanctuary.

The city of Sanctuary has been transformed these last few darks, as the Upper wards are bedecked in varying shades of red and black, streamers and banners of both guilds vying for space with innumerable flyers.  Good natured debate as well as violent scuffles further mark the start of the election season proper.  On the streets advocates of each party clamour for the attention of passers-by, proclaiming the superiority of their own policy and ideals whilst decry their opponents as fools, frauds and buffoons.  

Ordinants stationed in the Chapterhouse and those returning for a time from field duties take to the square and housing districts to speak to any who will listen of the need for action and firm leadership, embodied in their beloved figurehead, Rhiannon Kingsley.  Meanwhile confident and more dubious supporters of her opponent, the incumbent Director Crane speak of his relaxed attitude to campaigning, evidently spending his darks enjoying the company of Sanctuary's finest women and pleasures.

In the other vital race for the seat of the disgraced Narvis Naerfaine, two relative unknowns of the political landscape are locked in a propaganda battle for the hearts and minds of the citizenry.  The thoroughly upper class, noble hunter "Lord" Connell Smythe-Falconer as a somewhat well known monster hunter and wayfinder is said to enjoy the support of a deal of his normally red leaning comrades as well as the powerful Black guild voting blocs.  However, in the poor quarters of Upper many hungry mouths mutter bitterly that a man of privilege who has never known poverty can hardly hope represent them as a Black candidate.  

The lesser known Gerhardus Gunnvaldurson retains popularity amongst the minority of dwarven citizens, evidently leading a small sect known as "The Tempering".  Yet to the vastly human population he virtually unknown but for his association as a Wayfinder-Sergeant.  Though touted as a wise and solid head by the Red Guild he will assuredly need to prove his mettle and excellent policy in the coming darks if he hopes to win the acknowledgement and approval of the voters...

With the Great Game announced to take place in four darks, it would appear to most observers that it is all still to play for in the Ches election cycle.

As the campaigning period begins to draw to a close, with only two more days for the candidates to sway the undecided voters to their camp, both guilds have stepped up their efforts in a frenzy of tireless work.  Slander and insults ring back and forth from the furious mouths of loyalists to each party and in the form of mounds of posters.  

The tale on the lips of many springs from a recent and very public drama in the middle of Freedom Square.  It is said that the Black Candidate, Connell Smythe-Falconer was seen to march into the city dragging a beaten female dwarf known to some as Dolir Lagmalitet alongside a feral gnoll.  This strange tableau swiftly turned bloody as Falconer slew the savage beast and pronounced he had found the supposedly philanthropic artificer Dolir trading with this creature.  Shocked citizens watched on as the dwarven woman admitted to her dealings before an astounded Gerhardus Gunnvaldurson.  Black Guild supporters trumpet this sorry incidence as proof that the Tempering, and by association Gunnvaldurson cannot be trusted, whilst even some of the Red Guild are shaken that their candidate could be involved with such dubious characters.

Meanwhile the Black position has been furthered strengthened after the candidate Falconer returned in the last dark with a trove of baublium, rumoured to have been stolen from the authorities by one of the criminal gangs of Lower.  As the baublium meter returns to safe levels the Black Guild has wasted no time in making political capital from this event...

::[ Ches 10th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Late in the dark, Red Guild candidate Gerhardus Gunnvaldurson gave an announcement and speech at Simm's Square in the Public Housing Vault. There, the dwarf introduced himself to the multitude of residents and commoners who were curious to hear what the candidate had to say. Following a brief introduction and some disparaging words against his opponent Connell Smythe-Falconer, the candidate spoke a few words of how the Red Guild stands for prosperity.

By this point, the crowd that had gathered had been quiet and seemingly unimpressed. That changed, however, when the dwarf set his staff upon the ground such that it stood on its end. A series of quakes suddenly followed, shaking the entirety of the Public Housing Vault. The ground around the standing staff began to twist and turn, large portions of the ground jutting upwards and then moving away like waves upon a lake.

Finally, with one last tremor rolling across the ground, the very earth itself raised a massive boulder of metal oar studded with beautiful emeralds of all shapes and sizes. The dwarf laid into this massive boulder with his gauntleted fists, emeralds splintered off from the main boulder and commoners began gathering them in excitement. Eventually all that was left of the boulder was a single, massive, beautifully cut emerald which the candidate picked up and personally delivered to Sister Sarah Pond within Starag's Rest with the intention of it being used to fund various projects throughout Starag's Rest and the Public Housing Vault.

While Starag's Rest and the populace of the Public Housing Vault is considered a stronghold of Black Guild support and a good majority loyally stand for current Director "Ma" Murik, a small number of residents can be heard openly wondering if perhaps the Red Guild, with the likes of Candidate Gerhardus Gunnvaldurson, could spread greater prosperity throughout Sanctuary.

While recent events in Upper Sanctuary all relate to the coming election and campaigns of the candidates, 10th of Ches had different things in store for the Sanctuary below.

Rumoured to have begun with a bounty set by the Scarhides for one "Captain" Mack Wythers, hours later the central parts of Lower had erupted into a chaotic battlefield between various factions and gangs all looking to make their mark.

The fighting has since simmered down and the Lowersmen slinked off to their respective corners nursing their wounds, yet the hunt for this elusive Captain continues by those greedy or bloodthirsty enough to claim the bounty.

::[ Ches 12th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

It began as a day of revelry for the citizens of Upper Sanctuary, as multitudes of fans and enthusiasts descended upon the vast Sanctuary Stadium to witness this cycle's Great Game.  Good natured rivalry alongside drunken brawling abounded, with many Watchers called in to police the enormous crowd.  The Game itself got off to an electric start, and the first half came to a conclusion with the Red Team two points to one in the lead.  

Yet it is not the scoreline that is the tale on the lips of the people of Dunwarren. As the half-time break drew to a close and the second half was about to begin, a detonation was heard clearly throughout the stadium, followed by a rumbling tremor.  Moments later an ear splitting siren began to scream out a warning to all districts of Upper, a pre-recorded broadcast informing citizens to stay indoors and remain calm.  Some panicked adventurers and more orderly Watchers managed to get clear of the Stadium before it engaged an emergency lockdown.  

What followed the general alert is a matter of debate, given the panic and fleeing masses that swarmed the streets and Freedom Square.  It is generally agreed that some kind of militant faction of the Ascensionist's were able to infiltrate the vital Baublium refinery and therein detonated large improvised explosives.  Exactly how much damage was done remains unclear and the Spellguard are quick to reassure the populace there is no major threat, but have issued a directive stating as a precaution efforts to stockpile the mineral are to be redoubled as the patriotic duty of all citizens.

A running skirmish between the forces of Upper and Lower raged through the In-Between ruins as the saboteurs fled towards the alleys below.  It is said a dozen brave or foolhardy would be heroes pursued the criminals all the way into the slums below, where they were met by a large force of assembled gangsters.  It was not long before the shattered remnants of this expeditionary force were seen fleeing back into the Shield, reporting that a number of their comrades were now captives in the hands of the mastermind of this attack one Edwyn Nibley.  

Thus followed a long and terse hostage situation, with several of the co-conspirators of the attack held prisoner against the release of those in Lower. However as negotiations broke down, and the militant Ascensionists refused to turn over their hostages, the Spellguard declared their actions were tantamount to acts of war.  Even as this ominous pronouncement rang through the heads of those in the city, metal cannisters began to rain down on the streets of Lower Sanctuary.  Bursting on impact, a thin blue gas rapidly spread through the district and the heavily armed gangs, already on edge were nudged into a berserk frenzy by this terrible new weapon.

The slaughter was terrible to behold, screams of butchered women and children echoing up to the city above.   Brother turned upon brother, mother on child as men became wild beasts, tearing at one another in a panicked frenzy.  Streams ran red as rivulets of blood flowed across cobble and earth to stain the streets crimson.

As dust and gas settled, a macabre scene lay sprawled across the every back alley and square.  Worried civilians emerged to weep for the dead, widows and orphans seeking slain fathers and husbands who would never come home.  Negotiations seemed to be reopened and prisoners exchanged, but it is scant comfort to the people of the Lower wards who have paid a hefty blood price.  Many have simply locked themselves in their homes to pray for better days, whilst others mutter about vengeance upon the Spellguard and their lackeys.  Some even advocate sacking the Cathedral of Ascent, bitterly laying the blame for so much death squarely at the feet of Nibley and the Cult...

Meanwhile in Upper, Freedom Square lacks its usual buzz, whilst the paths and House of Trade are virtually deserted save for the lonely merchants hawking their wares.  Strangers are eyed warily as animatrons take up position on street corners.  Watcher patrols and presence has been doubled and in a show of martial might the Auxiliaries of the School of War have been deployed enmasse to the streets and sweeps of the In-Between, ruthlessly surpessing any insurrection, unrest or crime.

::[ Ches 16th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Yesterday the announcement of the first Ches election cycle victor was made before a large crowd in Freedom Square.  In a close run race, Connell Smythe-Falconer was decreed to have won.  Black Guild supporters drank and made merry long into the wee hours, whilst dispirited Red Guilders focused on pushing their agenda in the hope that they could at least unseat Crane and procure victory in the second round for Rhiannon Kingsley.

With the polls open for ballots once again as of Ches 16th, hungover Black Guildsmen took to the streets again to attempt to defend their incumbent Director Crane and secure a thoroughly black Directorate...

::[ Ches 19th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Lower Sanctuary was inundated by an infamous "Worm Rush" in which thousands and thousands of spawning rock worms descended in an avalanche through its streets and alleyways. Although the worms were destroyed in huge numbers, clean-up proved more difficult... despite the best culinary efforts of a local hissing troglodyte "chef." The stench of dead worm lingers in the air, and their juices stain the streets.

::[ Ches 22nd : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

As voting at last drew to an end today, the announcement rang out through the streets of Sanctuary that the second directorial appointment of the Ches elections was decided. The incumbent, charming Director Edgin Crane had lost his seat to the valiant efforts of the Red Guild, spearheading a campaign for the re-election of Director Rhiannon Kingsley.  Loud cheers echoed from Red Guild crowds and the Society Chapterhouse alike, whilst a stoney faced Crane was seen leaving the House of Governance and retiring to the House of Heroes.  Ordinants and Red Guild propagandists have been quick to put about that Director Kingsley will issue a speech in the coming days of her intentions now she is back in power, along with an undisclosed further pronouncement...

::[ Ches 24th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

It was quiet in Freedom Square when the sound of a piercing explosion suddenly burst throughout Upper Sanctuary. An intense and long lasting earthquake followed. Those who made their way found a flickering and mirage-like image of a large rock in the middle of the square. Once some puzzled out that the image was actually of something in the illusion, a few curious folk took off their rings of Sanctuary to investigate.

The rumours that follow say that what they found was a chaos battle scene. In the middle of the square of the illusion stood a large, magnificent ruby gem nearly six feet tall. Surrounding it were adventurers attempting to fight off wave after wave of sinister and swarming shadows.

Amongst the shadows a massive lumbering one that seemed to ignore the adventurers attempting to stop its advance. As the battle raged around it, the massive shadow grabbed a hold of the ruby gem which instantly began to turn dark with its touch. Patches of shadow and darkness grew around the ruby but before it could be entirely covered, the ruby flared with a brilliant light that burned the large shadow away along with all the others.

It's said that, in the process of destroying the shadows, the gem also cracked and shattered. Breaking into multiple large pieces, the the fragments of the large ruby shot out in multiple directions, piercing the walls, ceiling, and floor of the caves--punching large holes through thick stone and rock.

Of the many ruby fragments that scattered in all directions, only one remained to be picked up. This fragment was said to end up in the hands of a dwarf who was a part of a newly arrived adventuring group.

Upon hearing this, many commoners quickly whisper their worries about what sort of omen the large ruby might be. And what trouble was brought to Sanctuary...

::[ Ches 27th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Rumors of wild battle, bloodshed, and hostages involving first Wayfinder Melanie Coppertop and later Watcher Ksenia Foltyn spread among the people of Sanctuary. It's said that Wayfinder Copptertop was taken below by Edwyn Nibley and his allies, and later a fierce and bloody rescue effort was made organized by Watcher Foltyn and her allies. Having crept invisible directly into the Lower Fortress, the rescue group avoided the attention of most of the gangs who prowl the lower streets and were able to have the advantage of surprise. In the bloody confusion, Nibley and his long-time ally Justin Blaine both disappeared and - although Wayfinder Coppertop was freed - Sergeant Foltyn was captured. With both sides unsure of where Nibley and Blaine had disappeared to, the vociferous Sergeant Foltyn was freed with a ransom of some thousands.

The next day, a sending rings out across Sanctuary:

::[ Spellguard Broadcast : The Reformed Order of the Spellguard salutes Sanctuary Patriot Zahir Yn Utem for his capture of the dangerous Lowersmen Justin Blaine & Edwyn Nibley. The bounty has been collected and Sanctuary is safer because of it. ]::

Some folk in Lower are seen to be openly weeping in the streets, with most simply shrugging their shoulders at the inevitability of it all, whereas in Upper the mood is decidedly more celebratory. It's even said one particular besotted Worminger cheering his death over his Sanctuary Gin grew so drunken that he accidentally stumbled off of a bridge and plummeted to his death to the cavern floor far below.

...and then, less than an hour later.:

::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by Mad Marge Miggsley the Scrapgirl : Oh you ugly rat bastards. Eddie Nibs was the second sweetest boy that there ever was. Well I ain`t sweet, and now you`re going to have to deal with me. GET READY FOR BLOODY, RINGSCABS. ]::

::[ Ches 27th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

During a quiet lull in the dark, the doors of the House of Governance suddenly burst open as commoners and civil servant clerks fled out into Freedom Square, screaming in frightful terror.

Those brave enough to rush within found the Office of the Herald barred by darkness and huge lumbering shadows that block the entrance ways.

Within, the Herald could be heard preparing the sending sphere with desperate urgency before another woman's voice--projected into the minds of all with a sending stone--spoke up:

QuoteAttention people of this last, pitiful Sanctuary. You may have heard--or perhaps even witnessed--the arrival and destruction of a certain Ruby these past few darks. There are those who will tell you that these rubies are sacred to Sune. And these same people may tell you that they must gather these sacred things for some greater good or some other silly hogwash such as that.

I will remind you all of something now: Sune is dead. And dead gods have no use for anything. And so, should you happen to obtain this ruby or fragments of it, know that I shall be more than willing to grant such people great and powerful boons should they deliver such to me.

Some of you know me as Cassandra Heartlight. Some of you do not know who I am. But everybody knows the darkness that you exist in. Merely call out to it and I shall hear your words. Deliver to me the ruby fragments and you shall learn just how powerful my words are.

The woman who made the sending, it was said, addressed the crowd with faint interest before she--and the dark shadows--disappeared...

A minor thing, amongst the great battles and tales of Sanctuary.

But today, after a small chat with a Watcher, an old woman threw herself down a chasm.

Although those present say it was despair that pushed her to act, some people wonder why she would do so right after speaking to the Watch.

The people of both Upper and Lower begin to notice a larger than usual number of new arrivals, numbering nearly three dozen. They trickle in and out of Upper and Lower, meek and emaciated. When pressed about where so many of them came from, so suddenly, they relay a frankly bizarre tale:

A group of perhaps a hundred people sheltered in an abandoned surface city, living out a frightened and impoverished existence in the harsh surface environment, were found by would-be drow slavers. After weeks in the hands of their new masters, an eclectic group of misfit saviors arrived. Many speak of a man who glowed with a heavenly light, of a woman with devilish purple eyes, or of a strange (and perhaps insane) lizard-creature. Still others speak of the more relatable human and elf mages who seemed to speak for the group of freedom fighters. Still, the common element becomes clear: each of the former slaves praises the group calling themselves "Sojourners" for liberating them from certain death.

Most of the refugees, after purchasing supplies with coin provided by the strange planar travelers, return to the hidden ship to dwell with their rescuers. Some refuse, however, saying that the membership policies of the Sojourner's are too lax, and that while grateful for their assistance, they could never dwell amongst such freaks.

::[ Tarsakh 4th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Rumors spread in Lower Sanctuary of a strange construction project occurring in the center of the old ruins of the Canal Ward.... lights and the sound of massive movements of earth, all watched over by tight-lipped mercenaries in anonymous grey armor....

::[ Tarsakh 9th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Sanctuary is in an absolute uproar and state of near panic.

After a series of illegal and taunting sendings from Mad Marge, the forces of Upper arrayed in defense of Wayfinder Hall. The attack, however, came at the House of Heroes... this venerable edifice, a towering monument to Sanctuary's adventuring population, was bombed. After a raging fire, sections of the wall began to collapse and the House is believed largely destroyed...

As the Watchers chased after the first bombers and others worked frantically to put the fires of the House of Heroes out, a second - smaller - explosion was heard. This time Wayfinder Hall was struck, and much of its front was collapsed into rubble.

Mad Marge, Aracknar Blackgem, and other unknown assailants are believed to be responsible.

::[ Tarsakh 9th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

A series of sendings:

Quote from: Director QuickfeetThis is Director Quickfeet. Today, Tarsakh the Ninth, a day that shall never be forgotten. This day, the people of Sanctuary saw taken from them brothers, sisters, children...

For no reason, no reason beyond the pursuit of petty vengeance and bloodlust... indeed, this was not a battle that Sanctuary asked for. It was a battle that Sanctuary worked and labored, with every ounce of its being, to avoid.

But the rubble of the House of Heroes, from whence merry songs ring no more, reminds us that avoidance we can do no longer. This battle has come to our doorstep, and we shall answer the call. ]

People of Sanctuary, I swear to you- this shall never be permitted to happen again, so help me Tyr, blessed and almighty. Justice will be done.

Quote from: Mad MargeGot your Tavern. Got your Hall. Got your boy Zahir - guess what, turns out he was a THRALL for ORMULAX and delivered poor sweet Nibs to that damn beholder before getting gold from you lot.

And, some hour later, another explosion... this time in Lower. In apparent retribution for the attacks, Spellguard and Upper forces - authorized, it's said, by an enraged Director Quickfeet - bombed the Cathedral of the Ascension.

::[ Tarsakh 12th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Rumors spread of Director Abala Quickfeet being kidnapped by the feared Dwarven Bandit Aracknar Blackgem at the Upper Gate. Subsequently an unauthorized sending from Mad Marge herself claimed that she would meet at the In Between with terms for the return of the Director.

In exchange for the director, it's said Marge demanded 15,000 gold, the release of her imprisoned parents, and a paid holiday for all employees of the Workmill to be called "Marge Day." Although at first everything seemed to be going her way, towards the end of the negotiation Director Quickfeet somehow escaped from where she was imprisoned below - supposedly a dwarf named Krenshaw, later offered a medal for his service, was responsible.

With the hostage gone, Mad Marge was attacked by the combined forces of the Watchers and Spellguard and other Upper Folk and forced to flee, cursing and screaming insults, into the Machine. The elderly couple was returned to the Serena Tower, the gold re-distributed, and there are no plans for any holiday for the workers of the Workmill....

Late in the night Director Abala Quickfeet announced that the wanted criminal, Aracknar Blackgem,  bandit and kidnapper, had been captured. Blackgem, wanted for terrorizing the city with his banditry and the abduction of more than one Director, was handed over to the Director, though few know by who.

What followed was a short affair, with the Director executing the dwarf herself in Freedom Square. Blackgem is said to have been somewhat mad during the event, proving himself once and for all the greatest creature of avarice seen in the city by conning a man out of two-thousand gold even while he awaited execution, only to throw the money in the air and let it surround him as he was beheaded.


The people of Sanctuary rest a bit easier, knowing they no longer have to clutch their purses quite so tightly.

:[ Tarsakh 24th : 1384 DR ]::

Rumours quickly spread of the arrival of Lady Veronique Pallione, a beautiful spellcaster who arrived within the illusion with the Rosethorn Mercenary Company in tow. Given an amicable yet cautious welcome by Prefect Aden Connley, the self-involved and narcissistic woman claimed to be seeking the Ruby Fragments of Sune and promised reward and riches to those who brought her what she desires.

After making her purpose within the Underdark known, the woman and the mercenary company departed the illusion and made for parts of the Underdark unknown.

A few hours after the departure of the new arrivals, a series of earthquakes--with varying intensity and duration--rumbles through the dark caves surrounding Dunwarren. Many are quick to dismiss the quakes following the woman's arrival a mere coincidence but others wonder just what sort of magic she is capable of...

::[ Tarsakh 24th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

A series of startling events this dark began with a simple sending, that Sergeant Tacitus Martialis and Watcher cohorts had been overborne by a band of necromancers somewhere in the Low Caverns. A frantic band of concerned citizens led by another Watcher was seen hurrying from Sanctuary to confront these kidnappers and returned less than an hour later, battered and bruised but with three of the assailants in tow.

After being marched into the Watchouse, it was announced there would be a trial for one and a public execution for the others. Scarcely had this message sunk in, before an alarm bell began to ring deafeningly through the streets of Upper, with a call for the city's defenders to hasten to the Public Housing Vault.

Within the streets of the Vault a tense drama began to unfolded as it was revealed that two of these "Resolute Brethren" who escaped capture by the Watchers had infiltrated the shield and held a score of hostages within the Beetle and Baby inn. Having fortified the building with a number of undead minions, a standoff developed over the following hours.

One terrified woman emerged from the inn to deliver a list of demands, including the freedom of those captured along with something taken from the necromancers. Each demand was evidently agreed to in turn, with the threat that every soul inside would be slaughtered should any refusal or rescue attempt be made.

Onlookers watched as the men held for execution were presented to a negotiator, in the form of a floating human skull, for inspection and then permitted to leave with the disarmed Director Connell-Smythe Falconer.

Eventually as the dark wore on, the Watchers were allowed to send in a private to inspect the hostages, and the men within emerged to be escorted from the city in safety for the return of the Director. Shockingly, a small withered girl by the name of "Molly" pleaded to be allowed to accompany them, and was taken in hand by a sinister figure referred to as "Ghormant Oderian". The strange group was watched to shuffle through the armed mob, towards Starag's Rest, but in a shocking turn of events Sergeant Martialis is said to have ordered his  host to descend and kill both hostage takers.

A short brawl ensued, with rampaging skeletal warriors battling hopelessly against the citizenry and Watchers. In the chaos it is said one of the necromancers made good his escape, whilst the other was cut down by the brave sergeant still clutching his new ward.

In the aftermath it is said the freed Necromancers were pursued, with an elven wayfinder and member of the cult being killed. As peace returns to Sanctuary, many wonder how these extremists were allowed to strike into the very heart of Sanctuary, and what these Brethren might do in retaliation for the killings of their own...

::[ Tarsakh 27th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Rumors spread in the Sanctuary below and above that the long-running and mysterious construction has been completed in the Canal Ward. A lift now extends from the Sanctuary above to the Canal under the control, it's said, of Director Gould.

With rumors of Director Quickfeet recently having returned from a trade mission upon the Lake, it's widely believed that the goods produced by the Workmill will be flowing down this lift and from there to different settlements out upon the vast Dark Lake.

::[ Mirtul 12th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Sanctuary's people are shocked and frightened by the news that the at times controversial but generally trusted Director Abala Quickfeet died during an encounter with the Dread Empire. Groups of citizens are seen to be reading and re-reading Director Gould's speech (http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?p=410890#post410890) and wondering fearfully how the face of their Sanctuary might change....

::[Mirtul 23rd : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

A disturbing rumor circulates among hard-bitten hunters and veteran traders and slowly spreads to the public: that a Watcher was abducted near the outskirts of the city, carried to the walls of Mur and there eaten alive. Who the man was is unclear, yet of the villains it is said were an ogre, a half orc, and their gnome slave. For a brief time gossiping neighbors grow quiet when patrolling Watchers pass nearyby, in sympathy and fear.

::[ Mirtul 23rd : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Some citizens remark with some interest that the Watchers have a new third branch, "The Frontier Branch." Supposedly formed of what remains of the old Wayfinders, it's widely hoped by some that this new branch will help the Watchers bring the fight to Sanctuary's many enemies beyond the Shield. Others are heard to be darkly speculating that this sudden interest in events beyond Sanctuary is sure to bring trouble.

Elsewhere, the old damaged and dilapidated Wayfinder Hall has been boarded up and locked shut...

::[ Mirtul 26th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

A great melee on the Low Road today when several adventurers set out to hunt the ogre slaver Vrarikorg and his fiendish minions! The would-be heroes led by the warrior Rand were nearly victorious in finishing off the beast, but in the end were overcome by sheer ferocity. It is said the creature let them kiss his feet for mercy and were set free, all but one, whose mouthiness determined  she would be taken into slavery. Nica Smithson of the Spellguard Auxiliary was purchased by an ogre guard to be made it's bride. A warning perhaps to all defeated enemies of the value of contrition.

::[ Mirtul 26th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

The old men and desperate drunks at the House of Heroes have something to tell worthy of the place's name, and which puts warmth and pride into them.

Though no prize nor coin was proffered, when a call went out to help goodly folk in need few were surprised to see Alvarn Granitesoul of the Society step forward. Under his command were loyal Raran Roundbrick, cynical Jasmine Ilvastarr, and the caveman Eoghan Gwrn. Together the group tracked a caravan of slavers and their cargo out of Mur and into a burgeoning hive of Hook Horrors nestled within the Badlands.

When most would have turned back at the sight of hundreds of the creatures swarming and feasting upon the slaves, these four waded in, desperate to save whoever they could. Out of that stinking pit they rescued two small children and brought them safely home.

::[ First of Kythorn : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Word spreads quickly across the Dark Lake of a massive force of over a dozen strong armed and armored adventurers assaulting the hideout of Vrarikorg's Vandals in the shadow of Fort Mur.

Nearly all of the Vandals were captured in the process and dragged away by these adventurers, their ultimate fates unknown to the denizens of the Dark Lake. Vrarikorg himself, somehow escaped their clutches and many a slaver and mercenary alike can be seen toasting to his future success.

::[ Kythorn 11th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

A dark day for the residents of Lower Sanctuary as news circulates about the death of Orin Sidian, high priest of Ibrandul. According to those present, mad cultists of Ghaunadaur, a human and a halfling, barged into the Sacred Cave and demanded a tithe of flesh from those present. Orin Sidian and Andalee Farida denied them and the cultists proceeded to attack everyone within. After the battle, Orin was dragged off by the cultists and sacrificed to their foul god.
 
Residents grow more suspicious, with many heard voicing fears that they or their loved ones would be next.

::[ Kythorn 12th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

A rare occurrence in Sanctuarian history occurred this dark. While plans had likely been underway for a great many darks, the Mustering Order held today by Agents of the Spellguard revealed that an attack was to be made upon the Rosethorn Company and the woman they served known as Lady Veronique Palionne--who had been attacking citizens in their search for mysterious Ruby Fragments. A plan was explained, orders to prepare were given, and soon after a small army of Sanctuary Watchers, Spellguard Auxiliarymen, Society Ordinants and other citizen-adventurers departed the gates of Sanctuary.

Strangely, however, as the small army marched through the abandoned mines towards the Dark Lake, they found themselves harried by treacherous traps and skirmishing mercenaries. Despite this, the army continued on and eventually made their way to the Rosethorn Company Camp on the shores of the Dark Lake.

Arriving at the camp, the attackers found that the Rosethorn Company were more prepared than anticipated with additional reinforced terrain defenses and more hired mercenaries who screened the attackers. After the screening mercenaries were defeated, the two armies kept their distance--exchanging fireballs, catapult fire, and arrows. As a group of attackers attempted to flank the Rosethorns, they found their alternate path riddled with traps. Soon after these traps sounded loudly, the Rosethorns shifted their catapult fire upon the flankers.

Eventually the flankers broke through the side and the main attacking force charged forward. The battle was grueling, bloody, and hair-raising. After cutting down innumerable veteran Rosethorns, cheap-hired mercenaries, and even duergar sell-axes, the Rosethorn Company Camp was finally taken.

The Temple of Vera, however, was another great obstacle for the attacking force. Breaching the Temple proved to be an exhausting battle of attrition as men and women were forced shoulder-to-shoulder in a tight corridor. With blood, sweat, and tears, however, the attackers finally broke through into the main chamber of the Temple of Vera and there they confronted Lady Veronique Palionne.

It is said that Lady Palionne greeted the invaders with seething anger: "The world lies in ruins above, I am so close to making it beautiful once again. Yet you dare desecrate my Temple!?". A conversation was held between the Lady and one of the Spellguard Agents leading the attack. This conversation, however, proved futile. With a loud stamp of her staff upon the floor, Lady Palionne unleashed her magic--the steel of bloodied weapons followed.

Palionne's personal bodyguards and her magic appeared to be too much for the attackers. This battle was short. As Lady Palionne watched, her bodyguards drove the attackers from the Temple of Vera and even out to the shores of the Dark Lake. Negotiations were offered by the Rosethorns Company but as the terms were being discussed, another battle broke out and the Rosethorn Camp was retaken by the attackers.

When the Temple was entered yet again, however, a harrowing sight was found. The fallen of Sanctuary were gathered and Lady Palionne stood within a small maelstorm of magic and fire which seemed to move and act at her command.

Again, words were exchanged. The Spellguard Agent, in seeming befuddlement at the attack plans being picked apart, asked how it was Lady Palionne was so prepared. The Lady answered by mentioning that a Mister Oak had provided her with the plans and then went on to make her demands: hand over any Ruby Fragments the attackers possessed or the fallen would be made ash by the magical fire that surrounded her.

The Agent seemingly refused to meet her demands and it was said in a short manner of seconds, the corpses of numerous Sancturians were burnt to fine ash--among those were the well-known Wayfinder-turned-Watcher Scout Gylin Allinsk and Spellguard Agent Gernfax Arundar.

Yet again, battle broke out but this time it was a much shorter affair as few were willing to fight alongside the "negotiating" Spellguard Agent whom allowed their fellow Sancturians to be obliterated in flames.

With the leading Spellguard driven off, Lady Palionne turned to address the surviving Sanctuarians. First, she demanded the name of the Agent who spurned her demands. She was given it: Nicodem Skalarius, the Maimed. Second--and to some surprise--she turned to the other fallen Sancturians she had gathered and announced that they would be freed and allowed to return to Sanctuary: "As I said: I am here to return beauty to the world. And mercy is beautiful."

With her final words blaming Agent Skalarius for the Sancturian dead, Lady Palionne ordered all others to exit her Temple--an order swiftly followed. Palionne was not as patient as she is merciful.

When the last of the attackers exited the Temple of Vera, the gates suddenly closed shut with a loud bang. A barrier of light rose from the ground, surrounding the Temple like a protective cocoon.

Hours after the disastrous battle, Adjutant Robert Oak was placed on trial. Having been named by Lady Palionne, he was charged with treason. The man defended himself angrily, blaming Watcher Paul Weston as the true Rosethorn infiltrator who compromised the plan. The court, however, found him guilty and he was executed in the square, his last words a promise to see Weston in the Hells.

::[ Kythorn 18th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Lower Sanctuary had a surprise when numerous Slaadi began to pour into the streets, killing everyone in their path and causing mass destruction of property. Lowersmen and adventurers took to the streets to block their advance, and despite incurring many casualties, the Slaadi threat was defeated.

After the majority of defenders had been defeated or departed, a small band of Lowersmen, accompanied by Winston, investigated the threat and discovered a portal had been opened within a building in the Southeast Outskirts. Through no small effort, they were able to destroy the portal and prevent it from spewing forth more of the foul toad-like creatures.

As the citizens of Lower Sanctuary clean the Slaadi bodies from their streets, one question remains on everyone's mind: who is responsible for this assault on their home?

::[ Kythorn 19th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Upper Sanctuary is rocked by an explosion, followed almost immediately by a second explosion, as the Distillery is set aflame by terrorists from Lower Sanctuary. A portion of the building collapsed in on itself, sending up a cloud of choking dust and debris that smothered the flames before they could spread too far and damage the nearby Workmill.

Some time after the fervor died down, a sending could be heard:

::[ City Sending by Richard Quargus : Dick Quargus. By order of the honorable Prefect Bakran, Drake Baker and Naridwyn Dy`ner have been executed for their crimes against the city. ]::

As the owner and his workers begin the arduous task of clearing the rubble and rebuilding the stills, Sanctuarians begin stockpiling their beloved gin, hoping to have enough to get them through the feared dry spell ahead.

::[ Kythorn 20th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Upper Sanctuary is abuzz with excitement as a new election has been announced for the seats of the late Directors Quickfeet and Falconer. Speculation runs rampant, as citizens discuss whether the Reds or the Blacks will triumph in the elections to come.

Still other citizens are excited to see a new Great Game held in the Sanctuary Stadium, one that will ideally be more pleasant than the last one, interrupted by the Refinery's bombing. The period of mourning for the two Directors has come to an end, and Upper Sanctuary is full of excited and heated discussions once more.

::[ Kythorn 29th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Word spreads rapidly through Sanctuary about the shocking events over the past few darks. A lightning bolt onslaught on Freedom Square that injured a Watcher and a Prefect and resulted in the abduction of the Red Guild's candidate has many wondering how the Spellguard can let one of their Agents commit such brutality upon Sanctuary's citizens.

In the mean time, posters litter the walls and streets, proclaiming the virtues and flaws of one candidate or another, and many windows and buildings have been decorated in reds and blacks, showing off the support of those who dwell within for the political guild of their choice.

Upper Sanctuary remains in the grip of election fever, and many wonder excitedly what new scandal will rock this election next.

::[ Kythorn 30th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

It is a sorrowful dark in Upper Sanctuary, particularly for members of the Black Guild, as their electoral candidate Azriah Chand was knocked out and abducted from Freedom Square by an elven dissident.

Shortly after, citizens discovered the late Prefect's head impaled upon a spear in the illusion with a message implying that candidate Aurelia Larskul was responsible for the deed.

Sorrow and mistrust are commonplace in Sanctuary this dark and will be for some darks to come. Worried citizens whisper nervously as both Guilds remain conspicuously silent on how this will affect the elections and the Great Games.

::[ Flamerule 8th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

The results of the first half of the Flamerule election cycle was announced in the House of Governance. Edgin Crane was declared the winner, leading to boisterous celebrations among the Black Guild supporters.

In addition, the Black Guild candidate was announced for the second half of the Flamerule elections. Feregor Iganfar, is a devout of Ilmater, and known for his rather extreme displays of religious fervor.

Having two such zealous candidates has lead many to wonder whose faith will prove triumphant in the election to come, and whether the people of Sanctuary feels more beholden to the charity efforts of the Ilmateri, or the Shield and other magical boons provided by Mystryl's Weave.

::[ Flamerule 15th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

It has felt as though a lifetime has passed since the sun disappeared from sky of the surface world, to be replaced only with an oppressive and unrelenting blackness.

But a rumour has spread like wildfire throughout Sanctuary and the wider Dunwarren ruins: new arrivals from the surface speak of a sky that has grown slowly brighter over the last few 'days', in parts blushing a faint salmon pink, stained as though in anticipation of a rising sun.

Though none can say for sure what might be causing this, those that have supposedly witnessed this phenomenon are certain that something, somewhere, is happening... (//%22http://www.timeanddate.com/countdown/to?iso=20141221T21&p0=%3A&fg1=ea0606&fg2=951a20&msg=%3F%3F%3F%3F&csz=1&swk=1%22)

::[ Flamerule 17th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

As numerous residents of Upper Sanctuary turned out to hear the results of the second set of Flamerule elections, many members of the Red Guild were overjoyed to see their candidate, Aurelia Larskul, declared the victor.

Before she could even complete her victory speech, however, a sudden attack by a group of elven dissidents occurred right in Freedom Square. The attack was met with powerful resistance due, in part, to forewarning received by Sanctuary's defenders from a man who worked with the elven rebels.

In the days that follow the attack, many whisper about the uncertain loyalty of the relatively small group of elves that remain in Sanctuary, and whether actions should be taken by Sanctuary's leaders to ensure that they can't harm honest, innocent citizens in the future.

::[ Flamerule 17th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

A shudder rattled through the underdark on this day, announcing the arrival of a billowing red dust cloud, charged with an overwhelming concentration of arcane power. Caverns in which the red particulates either hung in the air or settled in a fine film upon surfaces experienced potentially lethal wild magic surges. Bizarre, glowing red lights of almost pure magical energy began to appear within the dust storm, lashing out at travellers with an dizzying assortment of spells, attracting countless magic eaters from across the region, making passage through the underdark vary between treacherous and impossible.

A further rumour has begun to spread, though not enough time has elapsed to confirm it: it is said that the sky of the surface world has returned once more to complete darkness.

::[ Flamerule 18th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Cavern winds carry the dust cloud away after around a day, restoring everyone's ability to contact the weave in a controlled manner.

Nobody can say for sure what the cause of this strange phenomenon was, nor does anyone know for certain whether it was an isolated incident, or something that is likely to reoccur.

Interestingly, one or two adventurers returning from beyond The Shield have noted small amounts of baublium cropping in areas that were affected by the dust cloud.

::[ Flamerule 20th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Surface reports confirm the rumours: the surface returned once more to darkness.

The latest refugee arrivals to Starag's Rest, however, have said it has begun once again to blush in places, a faint pink...

::[ Flamerule 20th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Travellers return to Sanctuary with stories of mature baublium veins in the outlands. Gems of the weavestone appear to have cropped in the wake of the red dust cloud, attracting all kinds of opportunists to the wilds. Several altercations have been said to have broken out while various groups scrapped over this precious mineral.

::[ Flamerule 22nd : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Reports from the surface continue to confirm rumours that the surface sky has once again begun to brighten. In some regions it is said the sky has become stained a deep pink, and the Red Star has grown in luminosity.

Many have conjectured that this signals the arrival of a second red dust cloud, though having no means to predict such a phenomenon, and having only witnessed one instance of their mutual coincidence, no-one can say for sure.

EDIT: Click here (//%22http://www.timeanddate.com/countdown/to?iso=20141226T21&p0=%3A&msg=%3F%3F%3F%3F&swk=1%22) for an OOC Countdown (//%22http://www.timeanddate.com/countdown/to?iso=20141226T21&p0=%3A&msg=%3F%3F%3F%3F&swk=1%22) issued so you can log in for the event. You should not metagame this or profess any IC knowledge of when this event will occur.

::[ Flamerule 22nd : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

A second red cloud billows through the underdark, pushing further across the land this time. The particulates float toward Dunwarren, over the Crossroads Caves and East, finally seeping into the cavern that houses Upper Sanctuary, and immediately it is apparent that something is very wrong.

The shimmering illusion that cloaks Upper Sanctuary crackles and fizzes as it interacts with the overwhelmingly powerful arcane energy contained within the cloud, and begins to flicker. A panicked Civil Service issues unconvincing calls for calm over the sending system, and the Serena Tower comes alive with activity, becoming a beacon of public address, firing instructions with a controlled sense of urgency, that all citizens have a duty to immediately increase baublium deposits at the refinery. A sinking feeling accompanies the realisation that strikes all those that possess a Ring of Sanctuary simultaneously...

The Shield Has Fallen.

Sanctuary trembles in the knowledge that its hitherto blissful complacency has in an instant become its greatest weakness: unmanned walls and no secure gate leaves it exposed to the myriad enemies.

Ysinode's marching thrall armies, the slavers and raiders of the underdark, monsters and horrors native to this harsh, inhospitable region, and not least the foe on Sanctuary's doorstep: the exiles and outcasts of Lower Dunwarren, who, waking up in their flea riddled hovels, are stoked by bitterness and anger, spurred on by the memory of a failed Revolution, of a cadre of mourning elves that sacrificed their lives for the cause of freedom, of all the Ascensionists and chainbreakers that tried in vain to liberate them from the yoke of Spellguard oppression, raise their heads, sharpen their knives, and draw their plans against those that dwell above...

::[ Flamerule 22nd : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

This day was the first day in a long time the streets of Sanctuary were set ablaze. Slaver ogres, opportunistic goblins and desperate bandits pillaged the homes of those that dwell here, and Sanctuary was one again exposed to the horrors of the underdark. It is said that even Mad Marge Miggsley did not miss this opportunity to make an appearance.

By order of the Serena Tower, adventurers were despatched to retrieve the baublium deposits that were brought in with the red dust, and return a huge quantity of it to the refinery, that The Shield might have a chance at being restored.

While a group of adventurers stayed behind fight fires and clear the streets of monsters, an expeditionary force collected and returned a sufficient amount of baublium for The Shield to be returned to an operational state.

The last of the fires have yet to be stamped out, yet already tensions have begun to arise: whereas the Red Guild are stressing the renewed importance of understanding and harnessing the power of this red dust and its capacity to produce baublium, today's events have served as proof enough of its fickle and capricious nature for the Black Guild, who, having seen The Shield fall as a result of this wild magical interference, warn that the cause of this phenomenon must be found and destroyed.

::[ Flamerule 24th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Reports from the surface suggest that, once again, the sky is beginning to stain with a faint pink. Nobody can know for certain when a red dust cloud will appear, though many have, after recent events, assumed that one is well on its way.

The debate surrounding this issue has intensified between members of the Red and Black guilds. With tensions running high, a particularly heated debate between guildsmen descended into a brawl in the Grotto. It is rumoured that amongst those involved were an off duty Watcher who wore a Raven pin upon his lapel, a Junior Engineer of the Auxiliary whose nose was bloodied by an Elven Mourner, and a Society Ordinant who was arrested for affray but later released without charge.

::[ Flamerule 28th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Many had predicted, by way of extrapolating the time gap between the last two dust clouds, that the next one would be due to arrive on Flamerule 27th. The day, however, passed without incident, suggesting that such simplistic calculations are no accurate means of anticipating when a wild magic storm might strike.

While the quarreling between the Red and Blacks continues, Sanctuarians of all stripes are agreed upon one thing at least: the sudden surprise of a falling Shield was both a blessing and a curse, for while it took Sanctuary by surprise, neither were its enemies poised to capitalise on such an opportunity. This time, however, things may be different, especially if the creatures that skulk in the darkness have found a means to predict the storm's arrival...

::[ Midsummer, Flamerule : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Midsummer, an extremely auspicious day in the calendar of most religions, marking the middle of the year, normally blessed by clement weather, a high sun and feasting.

Now, a bitter day for most that dwell in Sanctuary. Many remark in sour tones that the ultimate irony and insult would be if the pseudo-sun of the Red Star were to send a blizzard of red dust to take the lives of innocent folk on this day...

::[ Midsummer, Flamerule : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

The Shield fell again today.

In summary, the following is widely known by all citizens of Sanctuary:

The undead svirfneblin spilled out of the In Between Ruins and into the Watchers and citizens posted to defend the plateau that leads to Upper Sanctuary, and were repelled. A tribe of goblins also tried their luck in a raid and were pushed back.

A defense force organised by the Watch were sent to hold the Old Gate above Upper Sanctuary to prevent a repeat of Flamerule 22nd, though their lines were bypassed by tunneling formians, leading to heavy civilian casualties in the housing vaults of Upper Sanctuary, with at least a dozen citizens carried off by the formian workers. This tactical blindspot has cost Sanctuary dearly, and what would otherwise have been a stalwart and commendable defense effort, has now come under bitter criticism for the lives that were lost today.

It is widely rumoured that this same defense force paid off a giant that threatened to attack the city if his ransome was not met: a move that is met with approval by some.

Absent was any sense of premeditated, preplanned attack, which suggests those that would threaten Sanctuary have yet to find a means for predicting the arrival of these storms. Rather, these attacks still appeared to constitute opportunistic raids.

As before, though with considerably greater organisation, an expeditionary force was despatched to search for baublium deposits. Most agree the adventurers that formed this expeditionary force struggled to locate sufficient baublium within an acceptable time period, though there is little consensus on why this is: it is suggested by some that they struggled to meet the challenge of ranging in the wilderness under the inclement conditions of wild magic, where others say they are not well situated to take advantage of the baublium deposited by the dust storms, and are always doomed to be soundly beaten to the punch by other, more enterprising, more ruthless, more greedy actors in the region. Whatever the case may be, it is widely agreed that this method for gathering sufficient quantities of baublium to boost the shield to operational capacity is at once far too hazardous, and far too time consuming to be a practical response to this so called 'Shieldtremble'.

Indeed, some would wonder aloud whether the considerable strain of running the baublium refinery on sustained overdrive for the entire duration of the wild magic storm makes this approach unviable as a long term solution.

::[ Third of Eleasis : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

A strange tension has descended on Lower of late, with an increase in the number of murders amongst the gangs of the slums below.  Beginning with the mysterious deaths of a number of common thugs, in the last few darks rumours have surfaced that several prominent figures of the Silver Brand gang have perished in odd circumstances.  Whilst few are willing to speak openly for fear of retribution, it is commonly held that something unusually sinister is afoot in the ruins of Dunwarren...

::[ Eleasis 12th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

A quiet dark in Sanctuary was disturbed when the doors of the House of Governance suddenly burst open as civil servants and numerous other citizens fled into Freedom Square in a panic.

Within, it was said the room housing the sending system was obstructed by shadow as a mysterious woman made a sending:

QuotePeople of this pitiful hole in the ground. It has been some time since I last spoke with you but I'm sure you all remember the voice of Cassandra Heartlight. I shall be brief: this dark, my most sacred of sanctum of shadows was burglarized by four fools who do not realize what they meddle in.

Algarn Granitesoul, Issachar Zakur, Rallick Dess, Saul Faerstine. These are the four thieves who dared violate my holy place and steal from me. I wish their heads. And the hammer-relic they stole from me. Whom ever accomplishes such a thing shall be greatly rewarded.

I know there are many among you who have the stomach to commit a few murders here or there for personal gain. Should you happen to acquire what I spoke of, merely whispering my name into the darkness of the caves shall gain my attention. I shall leave you now to the darkness.

After the woman finished, a citizen called forth fire elementals to push back the shadows. A brief melee broke out as fire elementals and adventurer citizens battled a small swarm of shadows, but it seemed the woman had disappeared in the confusion.

Throughout Upper Sanctuary, looks of concern and worry can be seen on the faces of common citizens, worry as to what machinations have been disturbed of these dark forces.

::[ Eleasis 16th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Travelers report seeing columns of smoke rising in the territories beyond Traensyr, visible even from a great distance, swaying in the cavern breeze as they reach for the ceiling, indicating the presence of a massive army, camped somewhere in the outlands.

One or two particularly dedicated scouts remarked that the columns have been present for the last few days, and have moved steadily closer to the ruins of Dunwarren since their first sighting. though none have ventured sufficiently far out to offer more insight.

::[ Eleasis 20th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Those mindful of the streets of Lower Sanctuary notice a curious change occurring. Seemingly, more and more Cultists of the Ascension have taken to the streets of Lower to preach and proselytize. Driven by some sudden inspiration, the Ascensionist take to the streets in such nuumbers so that their members can be seen on nearly every corner and thoroughway.

Though whispered words and conversations spread throughout Lower, it's not clear what exactly has motivated the Ascensionists to such renewed activity. Regardless, the hopeful optimism and ideals of the Ascensionists has definitely lead to more visitors and greater traffic to their Cathedral.

::[ Eleasis 22nd : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

The campfires have moved into the Dark Lake region, and by most estimations the massive army responsible for them will, at this rate, arrive at the gates of Dunwarren within 30 hours.

::[ Eleasis 23rd : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

The Khaganate arrived at the gates of Dunwarren today, and the following facts are well known by virtually everyone in Sanctuary and its environs:

The host was many hundreds, if not thousands strong, comprised of highly disciplined, well but lightly armoured and extremely mobile orog raiders. These warriors were accompanied by various slaves, subjugated peoples and creatures, including but not limited to:

• Massive, exotic giants, much larger than those typical of the Dark Lake region, wearing correspondingly enormous shackles, wielding huge clubs
• Strange woolen mammoth creatures, four times the height of an ordinary man, carrying both bountiful supplies for long campaigning, as well as a massive wedge potentially used as a battering ram
• Subjugated orcs of lesser species, including common surface orcs, mountain orcs, wild orcs and even orogs of other tribes: some shackled, others apparently 'free', virtually all of them entrusted with weaponry of various kinds
• Chained minotaurs, also given weaponry
• Ogre Mercenaries, without shackles, apparently fighting willingly under the banner of the Khaganate
• Servile gnolls, gleefully subservient to a powerful master, many wearing collars though nothing which could be described as a shackle
• Enslaved common peoples of the Underdark, drow, duergar and svirfneblin, the vast majority of whom were unarmed and unarmoured, likely used for labour
• A few odd humanoid creatures of different kinds here and there, not native to the Dark Lake region, variously shackled and subjugated.

Along with phenomenal man-power, the host seemed to boast war machines and siege technology that far exceeds the capabilities of other orcs, including catapults, rock throwers and ballistae of a variety of kinds, clearly captured from more technological advanced peoples such as Svirfneblin.

At the head of the host stood a huge black skinned orog, wielding a curved sword, its length twice as long as a man is tall, flanked on one side by a silent, shrewd looking drow swordsman of remarkable poise, who was the only drow not to bear the manacles of slavery, and on the other side a bulbous orog with exaggerated features, who wore a bear pelt and appeared to glow a faint crimson.

The massive black orc, the 'Khagan', proclaimed himself the new master of the peoples of Dunwarren and gave them until the next 'Red Omen' to submit and kneel, or be crushed beneath the heel of the Khaganate.

::[ Eleasis 24th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

An increasing number of streets and alleyways in the outskirts of Lower Dunwarren begin to bear a bloody sigil, with a number of these sanguine symbols appearing closer to Lower Sanctuary proper, as the influence of whoever is responsible for these signs visibly spreads.

::[ Eleasis 28th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Amidst ever growing concern about the outlands and the looming Orog threat, it  was Lower and its environs that were the focus of frenetic happenings this dark.  For hours on end, men of the Silver Brand gang were seen tramping away into the depths of the alleyways, accompanied by strange men garbed all in black, hollow eyed youths and coarse looking mercenaries. When this odd exodus at last drew to a close, there began a mysterious rumbling, emanating from the depths of Dunwarren, with small groups of adventurers and even lawmen descending to investigate the earth tremors.  The people of Lower speak of a company comprised of mages in white and black, Ascensionists and affiliates from numerous other groups that ventured through the streets in search of the source of this instability.

Few seem certain of what precisely occured in the interim, but after several hours of clanging steel and battle, punctuated by explosions, most of the miscellaneous mob of adventurers returned battered but alive, only to race towards the docks.  It is said that this mass of humanity came upon the infamous crime boss "Don" Alberto Vigglioni and a few remaining Silver Brands as they attempted to board a ship out of Lower.  It is agreed that blows were exchanged but eventually some kind of agreement between the groups was reached.

The most extraordinary part of this tale, which has already suffered from theatrical embellishment with each retelling, is that upon approaching the leaders of the mob, the Don was struck down by some foul magic or curse, his heart torn clean from his chest.  The manner of this witchery is the subject of fierce debate and fear of such terrible power is palpable, yet one thing is now certain, a new era is about to begin the chaotic saga of Lower Sanctuary.  Already gangsters are seen sharpening knives and upstarts are eagerly eyeing the power vacuum that has appeared.

::[ Second of Eleint : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

As the perpetual night of the surface begins to break into a russet dawn once more, deep below the surface of Toril, citizens of Sanctuary worry about the promised invasion by the orog horde known as the Khaganate.

Tensions have once again begun to rise as many have felt that, through a mixture of complacency and incompetence, Sanctuary has sleep walked to the edge of the abyss, and it may now be too late to avert imminent disaster.

Many accuse the Directorate of having made no serious attempt to resolve the ongoing crisis: some say the political class have dragged their feet over a rumoured deal with the duergar prospectors of Mutulakt to provide additional baublium to the refinery, which, they contest, would have at least provided a stop gap until a more permanent solution could be found. Others claim that party politics has paralyzed the Directorate, and scuppered any hope of a fast response to this pressing threat, though such moderate voices are drowned out by the panicked finger pointing of the Red and Black guilds, whose representatives, in their desperation to hold their counterpart responsible, have been frequently found brawling in the Grotto, the House of Trade and the House of Governance.

There is an overall sense that Sanctuary is, rather than standing united against a common threat, slowly descending into chaos.

// If you have found a means to predict the arrival of the incoming storm, PM me.

::[Third of Eleint : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Rioting broke out in Freedom Square today between a contingent of Red Guildsmen and a group of Black supporters.

Witnesses claim the Blacks had left the Grotto after an informal meeting, led by Prefect Irene, and ran into the Reds as they adjourned from a meeting in the House of Governance, with Prefect Duke Laverne among them. Harsh words were exchanged, and the situation quickly deteriorated into increasingly incoherent slurs and insults.

Rotten fruit was thrown from the Black entourage at the Reds, which cause a robust and physical confrontation between an Ordinant and a grizzled adventurer in fullplate: their respective parties quickly rushed to their assistance and the throng of bodies began to riot. Among the rioters were the aforementioned Ordinant and a large adventurer, mourner elves, dwarves in black, at least one Watcher sporting a raven lapel pin, manual labourers, a Spellguard Auxiliary sporting an Eagle pin, several humans in red robes and at least one well known merchant from the House of Trade.

The situation was eventually brought under control by the pacification animatron, but not before around a dozen men and women of both stripes had been knocked unconscious: one Red Guildsman is reported to have died from a head trauma in the altercation, some say from an intentional blow to his temple, others say he was struck fairly but had the misfortune to perish from his resulting fall to the ground.

Sanctuary has not in many months, even years, stood so divided as it is now, even in the face of impending doom. While the Red Guild enjoy a majority in the Directorate, the common voice, informed as it is by the 'Black Rag', "The Writing on The Wall", often speaks favourably of the Raven.

::[ Eleint 10th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

This dark, the stillness and silence throughout the caves is interrupted by a trembling quake that rolled through nearly all regions of the Underdark. The quake was a powerful one, tipping over bookshelves and furniture throughout the homes of Lower and Upper Sanctuary in addition to tripping numerous people to the shaking ground.

At first, the quake just seemed to be another natural phenomena of living many miles beneath the ground, but along the Dark Lake, a sudden burst of light fired upwards from the Temple of Vera in a show of magical energy.

A number of adventurers made their way to the Temple of Vera in an attempt to discern the details and reasons for the strange show of magical energy, but their curiosity was answered with the sudden appearance of a strange guardians of ruby who stood shoulder to shoulder just outside the light shield surrounding the Temple of Vera.

The ruby guardians did not present a welcoming face to the Temple of Vera, a number of postings throughout Dunwarren (http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?p=425371#post425371) still presented an invitation to the Temple of Vera for a future time...

::[ Eleint 11th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

A dark after word spread that Lady Veronique Palionne had gathered the much sought after and elusive Ruby Fragments of Sune, the Lady opened the doors of her Temple of Vera, allowing all to come and witness her ascension to godhood.

Things, however, seemingly did not go according to plan. Though accurate reports are difficult to come by, word is the ritual was interrupted a number of different entities and forces ranging from: one of the band of Sunite adventurers whom originally arrived alongside the large Ruby of Sune; an awe-inspiring womanly figure clad in impossibly beautiful golden armour; a dark and purple clad witch; and a swarm of fell, sinister shadows that attacked everything and everyone.

The ritual that would have lead to the ascension of a new God, instead, resulted in a chaotic battle that resulted in numerous dead and wounded--including word that Lady Veronique Palionne was disintegrated to ash and dust by the armoured woman. As the battle raged, the walls and ceiling of the Temple of Vera began to collapse in on themselves and soon after what was once a beautiful, striking structure had been reduced to a pathetic pile of rubble.

Hours later, after all had fled, only the sinister shadows could be seen to roam the abandoned and ruined Rosethorn Camp.

Later that dark, a number of people who lay their heads to rest find no comfort as their sleep is a disturbed one (http://goo.gl/vuYoEg)...

Following the events at The Temple of Vera, it is widely known that a profound melee broke out amongst the rubble of the ruined structure. It is whispered that the notorious bandit Sabra Ur, also known as Black Sabra, allowing with a menagerie of cohorts and companions â€" among them Carie Welten, of the ‘Dunwarren Militia’ - attempted to overcome the contingent of Sancturians present following the Ritual.

Panicked Sendings by Director Larskul for reinforcements might have initially suggested the warriors of Sanctuary braved poorly â€" however, it is now widely circulated that Black Sabra was captured during the fighting.

A mere half a bell later, panic once again gripped Sanctuary as a profound explosion rocked the cavern. The location of the blast â€" the abandoned Barracks, more recently home to a company of dwarves â€" had seemingly been set ablaze through use of an incendiary device. As the masses of adventurers rushed to render aid however, it became clear the blast was merely a diversion. Simultaneously an attack was launched on the House of Governance. It is widely understood that the attack itself resulted in no initial casualties, but that both Civil Servant First Class Spithiwick Nurb and a Herald of Sanctuary was taken â€" along with a Watcher, now identified as Watcher Yengrin. Negotiations were then said to have begun for an exchange of hostages, whom were said to have been kept within The Cathedral of Ascension in Lower Sanctuary for the duration.

What is not widely known is what happened next. Rumours persist that Black Sabra may have been given a summary trial behind closed doors before execution. Other Watchers claim she was never conveyed to their care. Many Citizens â€" most of them Black of affiliation â€" claim that she was in-fact taken to the private quarters of Director Larskul, for a foul magical sacrifice in the name of her fickle Goddess of Weavery.

Whatever the reason: When news was relayed via the Sending system of Black Sabra’s death while in custody of Sanctuary, the dissidents below are said to have responded with the murder of captive Watcher Yengrin and, later, the Herald herself. Civil Servant First Class Spithiwick Nurb is understood to have escaped the carnage somehow.

A macabre exchange is said to have occurred then â€" the corpses of Watcher Yengrin and the Herald in exchange for the remains of Black Sabra.

Many residents of Sanctuary are shocked and aghast at the sudden escalation of hostilities with those below. Infrequent robbery now teeters towards something closer to a minor revolt. That both parties exchanged corpses rather than prisoners is perhaps a testament to the deteriorating state of affairs between the two settlements.

The Herald is said to have returned to her duties â€" though shaken and subdued. Spithiwick Nurb remains uncharacteristically terse and taciturn over the issue, refusing to relive the ordeal if asked. Watcher Yengrin meanwhile has been laid to rest at The Mausoleum.

Public opinion remains divided. Some guildsman from both factions are overtly petitioning the Civil Service for a posthumous granting of The Shield of Sanctuary to Watcher Yengrin for his brave if failed defence of the Herald’s office during the dissident assault. Others instead focus on the issue of Justice, hoping that the Watchers and Warders of Sanctuary can identify, track down and bring to trial those responsible. Another significant faction questions the treatment of Sabra following her Capture. They question the utility of her death, and wonder aloud if the fallen Watcher might not still live if not for the ‘rash action’.

Though with the Red Storm looming, and Orog of The Khaganate still marshalling to assault Sanctuary, it seems the events of this previous dark are sure to be only a minor diversion from the profound events to come.

A ripple in the dark...

Strange floating bubbles have been sighted. Most people believe them to be emprisonnement bubbles send by the Dread to capture slaves effortlessly.

Some travellers boast of "poping" a bubble, though some say the broken things emit a low wheezing sound as they do, and do not linger to see what happens after...

Nor does anyone know what actually happens when a bubble captures some poor soul. Rumors say some pilfer the brains of their victims, leaving a dead corpse intact on the ground...

::[ Eleint 19th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

A strange series of happenings occurred this dark, centred around the rather eccentric and irksome former wine merchant, Coriolanus De Valera.  The man, once known to many in Upper's high society as a peddler of the finest vintages, had reputedly been complaining for a good tenday of swarms of rats in the pipes and foundations of his house, though no evidence could be found.  The individual had become something of a byword for wild imaginings and paranoia of late, reduced to poverty after abandonning his business and becoming a sleepless nuisance troubling the citizenry in his search for enigmatic rodents.

Quite astoundingly for many, the Prefect Irene Ellet and her companions were drawn in by his story and were seen investigating his abode to no avail, before leaving as exasperated as many felt with the mad merchant.  However, later that dark, the same band was seen hurrying back to his house in Sunset Flats, and ordering the door battered down.  Though the circumstances remain mysterious, rumour has spread that De Valera vanished without a trace from behind a locked door, and that the case is being treated as a criminal investigation.  

The people of Upper are now left wondering as to the nature of these strange events, and if the wine seller De Valera was so delirious afterall...

::[ Eleint 25th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Todark proved to be an exciting and dramatic day for political enthusiasts and pundits in the city of Sanctuary. It began with rumours spreading that Spellguard Agent Pierre Du'Ponte confronted Prefect Irene Ellet, demanding that she make her way to the Watch House to face a trial overseen by the Directorate itself.

Within a matter of minutes, the court room was filled by curious commoners and supporters of both political guilds. Though it took some time for everything to fall into place so the trial could begin, when Prefect Irene Ellet was finally seated before the Directorate in the prisoner's box, the anticipation was palpable in the air.

With Agent Du'Ponte acting as the prosecutor, it was finally announced that Ellet was being trialed for the crimes of Treason to Mankind and Repeated Serious Offenses. What followed was over two hours of arguments, bitter sniping, and drawn out examinations of evidence. Of the enthusiasts in the crowd watching the trial, many say that Director Edgar Crane openly mocking Du'Ponte's evidence was the highlight of the trial. Others say that Director Rhiannon Kingsley verbally berating and threatening to find Ellet in contempt of court for mocking the prosecutor instead of rebutting the evidence was the most dramatic moment of the trial.

Eventually, however, both sides presented their closing statements and the Directors recessed to discuss the verdict. It was some minutes afterwards before Director Rhiannon Kingsley, speaking for the Directorate, stood up to announce the verdict.

Citing a body of evidence that lacked hard substance and depended heavily on drawn conclusions, Prefect Irene Ellet was found not guilty of Treason to Mankind. Additionally, the Prefect was also found not guilty of the second charge of Repeated Serious Offenses, in this case due to a lack of developed and concluded cases against the Prefect.

As Prefect Ellet basked in her victory, the court room was quickly filled with the murmurs of onlookers discussing the outcome. Black Guild supporters celebrated vocally that their Prefect would keep her position. Red Guild members, meanwhile, grudgingly and quietly admitted that the prosecution was disappointingly weak. As the crowd filed out of the court room, however, many agreed that the political rivalry and wrangling between the prosecuting Agent and the defending Prefect seemed far from over...

The first casualties of War have come to the safe and serene streets of Sanctuary herself at last.

Earlier this dark, the sirens of alarm situated in The Housing Vaults were raised in a terrifying cacophony or urgent desire. By the time Watchers and other defenders had arrived to answer the call however, there was little left to be done.

Rumours remain hazy as to precisely what occurred, but most witnesses claim that a terrifying Orog leading a small band of humans and at least one gnome or halfling undertook a brazen and lightning fast assault on the streets of the Housing Vault. As many as four Watchers were slain, in addition to some two dozen of the Housing Vault's Residents.

Delgado Flats was also breached during the fighting. Within, a heroic Watcher was no match for the furious and bloodthirsty attack that spared neither women or children. Of greatest note are the whispers that several Rings of Sanctuary were found upon the bloodstained floor belonging to notable members of Sancturian society:

Ordinant Rallic Dess
Sergeant Dalley
Watcher Faerliams
Prefect Jasmine

Upon the lips of Black Guildsmen and mourners alike are the same urgent questions:

How did this Orog obtain the means to Breach the Shield, and will those responsible for making this tragedy possible be held to account?

As the services of the fallen during what is coming to be known as 'The Delgado Massacre' conclude this dark, public sentiment is slowly shifting from somber and mournful to agitated and incensed.  

The final death count stands at 19. Whilst it is somewhat less than originally reported - it is seemingly still sufficient for few denizens of The Housing Vaults not to have known at least one of the victims in passing.

The Beetle & Baby has become a hotbed of discussion about the circumstances of the raid. Whilst 'The Herald', the Orog that spearheaded the assault, has been spitefully condemned for the senseless brutality of the attack - far more scorn is piled upon the names of those Sancturian notables that were found to have lost their Rings of Sanctuary to this monster - and thereby made the attack possible to begin with.

Citizens begin to wonder if their safety is starting to be ignored by the brash and bold Adventurers of the city, who have consistently failed to take the proper precautions in their travels. More vocal are those calling for justice and harsh reprimand for those found to be responsible for losing their ring through carelessness - and in particular retribution against those responsible for this particular breach.

Elsewhere, one of Director Crane's assistants has offered up the following notices around the city:

QuoteCitizens of Sanctuary,

Director Edgin Crane will be making a brief announcement in The House of Governance at this time (http://www.timeanddate.com/countdown/generic?iso=20150307T2030&p0=136&msg=Speech) regarding the recent tragedy. All Citizens are invited to attend and hear his words.

A speech by Director Crane (http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?p=427958#post427958) was delivered last dark. While it offered fairly sincere platitudes to the people of the Housing Vault following the Delgado Massacre, the attempted assassination of Director Crane by his own Prefect Jasmine has almost overshadowed the substance of his words - and has become the subject or much bemused debate by Citizens.

Also well known is that once the speech was over, Director Crane took several questions from the gathered adventurers and Citizens. Whilst initially presenting a confident air, Director Crane was eventually challenged by a burly Worminger named Borivik Straynogo

The man is understood to have made an impassioned plea for the justice he was promised over the massacre - which is said to have resulted in the loss of both his wife and only son. Specifically, he challenged Director Crane for not going further the punish the Citizens and Adventurers responsible for losing their rings to the Orog horde, and making the attack on his family possible. "Safety, Security, Sanctuary" were promised and denied, according to the man - and it is well known that Director Crane did, for once in his life, struggle to find the right words.

Borivik and his fellow Wormingers eventually departed, unsatisfied, but with some veiled threats of further action should the city of Sanctuary ignore their calls.

Director Crane has meanwhile retreated to his manse once more, reportedly surrounding himself in sympathetic flocks of his most ardent supporters and preparing to appoint a new Prefect.

Meanwhile, the Red Guild has issued the following:

QuoteThe Red Guild shall always be a Guild of action and boldness. To this end:

In response to the Delgado Massacre, we offer more than empty platitudes. Director Gould personally sponsors:

3,000 gold to whomsoever locates the hidden forward camp of the Orog menace.

5,000 gold and a treasure from the fabled Serpent's Horde to whomsoever returns the Orog known as 'The Herald' to face justice for his crimes.

Sanctuary is not as weak as these Black cowards presume. Let us show these monsters that we will not be bowed.

Good hunting, Sanctuary

::[ Marpenoth 23rd : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Another long awaited 'Red Storm' struck today. Much of the citizenry had been awaiting, in trepidation, an massed incursion by the Khaganate, though what occurred was in some ways far worse.

A group of Khaganate raiders infiltrated the shield, bearing rings of Sanctuary that had had the names of their previous owners filed off. While adventurers, Watchers and Spellguard Animatrons massed to the walls, the refinery was struck. In the confusion, many rushed to the assistance of the Agents and Auxiliaries on duty there, only to realise that the strike had been a ruse: the flames rising from the House of Governance confirmed it as the real target.

A large group of adventurers rushed into the blaze and fought through the lobby to reach the upper floors where, it is rumoured, Director Rhiannon Kingsley was found, bleeding heavily, having been taken by surprise by half a dozen Khaganate raiders. Despite wearing nothing but her directorial toga, it is said the Director managed to incapacitate the orogs using nothing but a chair leg as an improvised sword, thereby rescuring Director Ma Murik who was in the process of being abducted, though not without being mortally wounded in the process.

Sendings were later issued by the Watch and Civil Service, noting the many dead from the raids, and insisting that, contrary to the rumours, both Directors were alive and well. Despite this, Director Ma Murik made only a brief appearance thereafter to thank adventurers and citizens for their bravery during the invasion, while Director Kingsley has not been seen nor heard from since: the Chapterhouse has yet to issue a statement regarding the status of their premier.

::[ Marpenoth 29th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

While Director Rhiannon Kingsley has still not yet made a public appearance or announcement regarding her health, increasingly rumours surrounding the Chapterhouse suggest that she is slowly recovering from her injuries.

A clerk of the House of Governance claims to have see a walking cane propped against her door in the Directorial offices, and has speculated that she will not allow herself to be seen in public while she has need of such rehabilitating aids.

::[ Uktar 6th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

The dark began in a bizarre manner: a Watcher was seemingly thrown from the High Apartment platform, his body crashing to the ground just outside the trade house. When Watchers and adventurers alike went up to investigate, they found a High Apartment was broken into. As a crowd formed from the neighbouring apartments, the sound of a fight could be heard within.

After a few minutes, a young man, his hands tied in rope, was seen escorted from the apartment. Numerous curious and inquisitive whispers were spoken as the man was brought to the Watch House but whatever was witnessed within the apartment was seemingly kept under wraps.

In time, however, a trial was called. Commoners flocked to the Watch House not just to witness the trial but also to perhaps puzzle together what happened in the High Apartment. And, sure enough, what was revealed shocked the court and quickly spread by word of mouth. The young man was Wellen Carisle and he proudly plead guilty to the murder of Mr. and Mrs. Miggsley--the parents of the notorious and most wanted bandit known as Mad Marge Miggsley--in an act of vengeance of his own family members killed in Marge's attacks upon Sanctuary.

The crowd in the court house sat in stunned silence. But then someone cried out in praise and support of the Wellen. While a minority, there were those e in the court house who were willing to blame Marge's parents for the sins of their daughter. Watchers removed rowdy elements in the court, allowing the trial to continue, but it did not take long for Prefect Hyram Sinclair to accept the guilty plea and to sentence Wellen to death. And all the while, those with sending stones had their minds pierced with the screeching sounds of unauthorized sendings made by a distraught Marge Miggsley from somewhere within the Machine...

After Wellen was lead outside and placed into the stocks, there was some confusion as to who would actually execute the man. Once a decision was made, however, and just as Wellen was asked if he had any last words, the illusion shimmered and Mad Marge Miggsley appeared alongside a number of cohorts.

Whispering a few words, Marge fired a crossbow bolt into Wellen's forehead before the Watch could execute the man. What followed was a mad melee as Marge and her cohorts were attacked by the crowd who. The battle was quick, chaotic, and over in a matter of minutes. Marge lay face first on the ground, groaning--either in pain or in defeat.

As shackles were placed onto Mad Marge's arms, however, a strange, rapid beeping sound could be heard coming from her body. Uttering one final curse upon the ringscabs of Sanctuary, Mad Marge was swallowed up in a massive explosion that also wounded and killed a number of others standing nearby around her.

When the dust settled, nothing remained of the notorious bandit woman that had plagued and terrorized Upper Sanctuary for the past two years...

::[ Nightal 7th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Like a slow, creeping fog, a new faint sense of unease seems to have taken Sanctuary by surprise. For the past few days, rumours have been spreading of slavers becoming more active in the underground environs surrounding Dunwarren.

The people of Lower Sanctuary, ever wary of threats to free men, watch the streets and alleyways with paranoid eyes for any signs of would be slavers. This cautiousness proved warranted when a small band of slavers suddenly conducted a raid upon the Lower market. The Lower gangs quickly--if in a disorganized manner--repelled the attack but as the gangs took a count of their losses, it became apparent that the slavers came for the able-bodied as those in the ranks of the gangs themselves.

In Upper Sanctuary, the slaver rumours are treated more as curious gossip but more serious and worried words are brought from the traders and sailors arriving via the Lower Canal Ward docks. Traffic upon the Dark Lake, it seems, has increased and much of it going to and from Sorrowfeast Isle.

Though many questions are left unanswered, it seems labour is in great demand...

::[ Nightal 9th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Rumours in Upper Sanctuary swell with speculations on the coming of the next Great Games, and of long awaited Elections.

Rumours tell of crates and packages making way from the Workmill to the Society Chapterhouse, where it is said that preparations of some kind are underway...

Rumours speak of the completion of the Simms Memorial Orphanage and School... of the nearing opening of a great institution of charity and education.

And strangest of all... Rumours tell of a young man named Finn Mouldercrest, who has struck great fortune. It is said that Director Roaldhe Gould himself chanced to sample the beetle stew so often enjoyed by the common folk and stingy adventurers. Unlike these humble appreciators, Gould's powerful praises have created a sudden new fashion among Sanctuary's elite in a very short time... Everyone who is anyone wants to have tasted Mouldercrest's. Civil Servants, Prefects, Guild Officials, and fops from the High Apartments have all scurried out early to lunch to buy the beetle stew. Dry witticisms and sarcastic dismissals come from the lips of the cynical and uninitiated. But within the dark, lines have begun to extend all the way out of the House of Trade as the popularity of a nothing little store called "Mouldercrest's" has exploded beyond belief.

::[ Nightal 18th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Throughout Lower these past few months a series of developments have been underway.  With demise of the leader of the Silver Brands and the vast majority of its gang members in mysterious circumstances, the criminal economy of the slums has become a much more dispersed and disorganised affair.  Much of the smuggling and organised crime is now in the hands of the Varad-Azuul family in the Canal District or small independent actors in Lower.  The resulting power vacuum from the collapse of the Silver Brand's network of fiefdoms and petty gang captains gave way to a brief period of peace, which is now being disturbed by the makings of a new anarchy.  Free from fears of overbearing thugs and welcoming flocks of new desperate souls, the Church of Ascension has swollen in numbers of late, its preachers flooding the streets with the word of Frederick Bresley, often flanked by ragged looking fellows brandishing arms in the makings of a ramshackle militia.  

Whilst the teachings of "hope" appeal to many of the lost and abandoned souls of Lower, there are those who's lives are too bleak, to filled with misery and memories of horror to escape into the fantasies of idealism.  For the men and women mired in despair, the comforting embrace of quiet and darkness draws them to the Sacred Caverns of Ibrandul, where this ancient cult of the Underdark seems to be undergoing a resurgence.  Pale, skinny youths and old men with drawn faces beckon kindred spirits to join the faith and the call is slowly but surely being answered.

Meanwhile, something stirs in the fetid, murky shadows of the Sewers that run below the old ruins.  From the grates and canals a spreading slime can be seen marking walls, pavements and even living creatures.  Hushed whispers speak of slimed monsters crawling out from the hidden places of the earth to drag away unsuspecting folk to a fate unknown and doubtlessly horrifying...

Finally in the wake of the disruption caused by the fall of the Silver Brands, a new drug seems to be hitting the streets.  Known colloquially as "Bloodshot", for its effect of reddening the eyes and veins of addicts, it is proving a potent and dangerous threat to both users and average citizens.  A habit largely confined to the desperate and powerless, the appeal of the supernatural strength and physical abilities the drug is said to bestow is enough to continue it's voracious spread, despite numerous horrible side effects.  More than one corpse has been found stiffened in a state of agonised convulsion, or reputedly with their heart burst from their chest.  Rampaging and paranoid users are a constant threat in the back alleys, exacting a bloody revenge on a world that has scorned them.  Despite the prevalence of the danger, no one quite seems to know exactly where the drug is coming from, and it is reported to only be supplied by silent dealers, covered head to toe in black leather and iron masks.

::[ Nightal 25th : Year 162 : 1384 DR ]::

Earlier this day an enormous explosion ripped it's way through the ground floor of the Sunset Flats.  Amidst billowing smoke and gouts of flame, a Watcher, Agent and unaffiliated individual mage of some sort were seen stumbling forth in a badly scorched state.  Onlookers repute that rather than deal with the fire which was building to a towering inferno, the Watcher present proceeded to speak angrily with the other two, whilst the Agent bellowed for assistance.  As time dragged on vital moments were lost and soon the entire apartment building was engulfed in fire, terrified residents were seen flinging themselves from the windows in the hopes that the fall would be less dangerous than the devouring flames.  By the time sufficient response was mustered the situation appeared hopeless and animatrons were deployed to demolish parts of the building to create fireblocks and prevent the spread to other housing blocks.  At last a catapult was brought up to collapse the tower, fired by the first attending Watcher.  Some have praised his tough action to quarrantine the fire, but many more condemn the collapsing of the building with citizens reputedly still alive inside and note it would not have been necessary if not for the earlier failures.

As the citizens mourn the loss of what conservative estimates claim to be at least five lives, serious questions are being asked about the ability of Upper Sanctuary's protectors to deal with emergent threats with the atrocity blamed on a drug cartel developing in Lower.  Sobbing relatives, officials and even members of the Directorate have been seen laying wreaths and flowers at the site of the blast whilst work is already underway to clear the rubble.  Some droll individuals note one bright spark amidst the misery is that the rising star Finn Mouldercrest was not caught in the terrible collapse as a former resident, having recently moved into finer accomodations with the newfound success of his stew business.

::[ Hammer 8th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Todark, an announcement was made within the House of Governance that an election season is begun.

The Guilds have begun to prepare their candidates and campaigns.

And it is said that the Great Game will occur in about a week. Already citizens speculate on who will join the teams of the Red (//%22http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?105147-The-Great-Game-Red-Guild-Team-Sign-up%22) and Black (//%22http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?105146-The-Great-Game-Black-Guild-Team-Sign-up%22) Guilds. Following that, full directorate election campaigns will be on... with all seats up for grabs, and the future of Sanctuary hanging in the balance.

Amidst the excitement surrounding the election season, some other good news filters through... That for the first time in many, many darks... the Baublium Meter is in the green.

::[ Hammer 10th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

More good news comes to Sanctuary... It is said that the famous businessman Finn Mouldercrest is due to be married to one Alicia Gould, the niece of Director Roaldhe Gould.

The rumour goes that they fell in love at first sight, and after only weeks have decided to be bonded for life. The ceremony is expected to be a grand one indeed.

::[ Hammer 14th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Word quickly spreads of a Red Guild victory in the Great Game. The team, made up of participants Marco Valdal, Rallick Dess, Ving Swift, Henrik Welten, and Fifur Bouldershield... and captained by Dorissa Sennesse, brutalised the Black team. Although controversies linger over the Red Guild's provided uniforms giving an unfair advantage, and the Black Guild dabbling in illegal performance enhancing substances... ensuing riots were driven mostly by bitter and drunken Black Guild supporters.

Freedom Square and the House of Governance are the site of a glum cleanup by Clerks, Watchers, and Scriveners... as trash is carted away and battered revellers are peeled off the streets and sent home in bandages.

Word also spreads of the trial of the Red Team's captain, for capital crimes of treason for dealing with dark elves. Ordinant Dorissa Sennesse was to be delivered a painful guilty verdict, but chose to appeal the decision to whatever Directorate emerges from the Hammer Elections.

::[ Hammer 22nd : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Nervous scholars and desperate priests are united todark in warning of what bad fortune may come tomorrow, on another anniversary of H'bala the Maiden's release...

.. Hammer 23rd...

::[ Hammer 23nd : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

It began with a speech, over the sending system, from a familiar voice.

Quote from: "The Masked Man"Hello Sanctuary... It has been some time.

I cannot bring myself to apologise for disrupting your farcical ritual of choosing what colour leaders you would prefer. But for what has been done this dark, I hold in my heart a glimmer of regret.

Yet despite the chaos that comes, the Order of the Spellguard's grasp upon the Machine, and their maintenance of the false world you inhabit... must drastically wane, if you are to see how hollow your dilemma is. If you are to Seek again.

In the battle for your hearts and minds, you have been given a choice between cowardice and avarice, between hiding and fighting, between the Spellguard black and red. Today, I extend to you a new choice...to Seek. Today, I have sent an Idea to the heart of their dominance...

Today, I have freed the Machine.

Upper Sanctuary, only beginning to decline from the height of its electoral season... was stunned into silence, and locked down as signs of panic rose.

A 'response team' was quickly gathered at Serena Tower, and - according to official announcements - "anomalies" in the Machine have been contained and destroyed. Rumours vary on what these are, but the most persistent tell of a contagion, or an infection, afflicting Animatrons in the Machine.

Commander Barkely himself was heard to make a short speech in the House of Governance, congratulating the defenders and warning that these renewed threats to Sanctuary were not truly defeated yet...

In the days left of the election, the Guilds are poised to claw some advantage from the crisis...

::[ Hammer 30th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

In a stunning move (//%22http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?105527-Director-Kingsley-s-Withdrawal-from-the-Hammer-Elections&p=436673#post436673%22) on the eve of voting, Director Rhiannon Kingsley has withdrawn from the Hammer Elections. Citing her belief that the Crusade's best hope is the election of a Red Majority... Kingsley pledged her Society, its Oathsworn, and whatever support she still commands, to the three remaining Red Candidates.

Some of her supporters have reacted with bitterness at what they see as a betrayal and a retreat by the Director, but others see Kingsley's act as one of wisdom and personal sacrifice for the greater good. Noting the weakness of the Society's campaign, the gambit is that the support for the cause of the War against the Aberrant can bolster the Reds, whilst avoiding the Society's recent image problems. Yet the sudden the announcement comes as a rude shock to many, with some saying Kingsley should have made her intentions known long before today.

In any case... Voting has now begun, and citizens make way to the House of Governance to cast their single vote.

Most agree that the elections have proceeded without a clear winning Guild. This has made many folk nervous, and stimulated those with strong guild allegiances. Campaigners discerning enough to see this only became more ravenous for victory. The five available seats, the inexperience of new candidates, and the baggage of old Directors... have all made the race more desperate than any in memory.

Todark, none can say what the future holds for Sanctuary.

::[ Third of Alturiak : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

With voting ended, the results of the Hammer Election season were announced todark... and a new Directorate has risen to lead Sanctuary.

QuoteRoaldhe Gould - 1095 (PC votes: 4)
Austanias Glademore - 899 (PC votes: 5)
Ma Murik- 798 (PC votes: 1)
Szul Thrazaluun- 797 (PC votes: 11)
Finn Mouldercrest- 788 (PC votes: 4)
Edgin Crane - 611 (PC votes: 0)
Albrecht Vauclair - 573 (PC votes: 5)
Aelmaroth Calamir - 485 (PC votes: 5)
Paul Weston - 189 (PC votes: 6)

While a Red Majority Directorate has emerged, the Black Guild is quick to note that overall the most votes went to the five Black Guild candidates.

At celebrations, the Red Guild's tales of their victory are divided... Some hail Director Kingsley's self-sacrifice and the Black Guild's folly as the most credible source of the victory, while others triumphantly declare that Sanctuary has unequivocally endorsed a Greater Sanctuary. Arguments between anxious Ordinants and Oathsworn, and the supporters of the three ascendant Directors, can already be heard. There are many on the side of the Society who do not believe that the Red Guild's new Directors will truly pursue the War against the Dread with all the vigour and dedication required...

But however one makes sense of what happened, all agree that a new era has begun in the city of Sanctuary...

::[ Alturiak 3rd : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Curious events struck Upper Sanctuary this dark, beginning with the hosting of a contest of arms by one Doban Cherninshat the grand Sanctuary Stadium.  As citizens of all stripes went to do battle or enjoy the bloodsports, it is said a pair of strange men entered the vast complex and after a short while the larger of the two vanished into the backrooms.  Whether by design or chance, intrepid spectators are rumoured to have stumbled on a nefarious plan to take hostage all within and seize the Stadium for some manner of chaotic "game".  Evidently the security being insufficient, the armed criminals involved were able to wrest control of the entire colosseum, sealing terrified people inside the main chambers and cutting off communication or alarm with the rest of the city.  Those within report that they were then subjected to the insane shenanigans of the mysterious mad man known as the "Bloodshot Baron", a feared drug dealer wanted for producing the recent drug epidemic in Lower.  The specifics of this orgy of violence and anarchy remain hazy due to the reticence of many to speak and tight Spellguard control of any information regarding damage to the Stadium.  

This confusing and fearful event has left many citizens of Upper Sanctuary wondering if anywhere is safe from the dangers of that haunt the streets below and the world beyond.  Bodies covered in heavy cloth carried from the stadium along with the awful smell of charred meat belie a terrible fate for some of those who were trapped within.  The question on everyone's lips remains, who is this "Bloodshot Baron" and is there any agency in Upper Sanctuary capable of stopping the rising body count from his actions...?

::[ Alturiak 23rd : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

After several sendings announcing that Gould & Company will be arranging for a herd of domesticated rothe to graze in the shroom-filled mines near Sanctuary, a large group of adventurers set out to assist in the defense of the herd. Their mission was a tragic failure and the people of Sanctuary will seemingly be deprived of the opportunity for cheap rothe-burgers.

According to reports, a monstrous, gargantuan PURPLE WORM managed to tunnel into the mines and devour the entire herd before finally being driven off by the adventurers. In its thrashings and wild wriggling, the huge worm even collapsed the precarious mine shafts and it appears the entire complex has fallen into ruin...

As for the worm, although greatly wounded, it was not destroyed - and will surely return once more, when it hungers again.
 

::[ Alturiak 24th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

A few strange happenings have occurred around Sanctuary in the past week and a half, beginning with a burgeoning spate of murders, most grotesque in nature. Twelve darks ago it is rumoured the Sanctuary Watchers found the mangled body of a streetwalker, dead from what appears to be a wild animal attack. This, it is said has been followed by two more murders in a similar vein, one a wandering salesman and the other a prominent merchant. The details remain unclear and numerous citizens whisper that the Watchers are keeping the matter under wraps to avoid panic, but it is commonly understood that someone, or something most foul is at work in Upper.

Meanwhile, just five darks past, those who were wandering beyond the confines of Dunwarren report a vast rumbling and shaking of the earth in the vicinity of the Dark Lake. Sailors and merchantmen speak in hushed tones of a great upheaval and terrible sounds emanating from the cursed spit of land known vaguely as "Cape Harrowden", a grim and ill fated place long avoid by decent folk...

::[ Ches 17th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Rumors spread of a major Mystrilite ritual attempted by former Director Aurelia Larskul in some hidden laboratory of the In Between. Although it's believed the Spellguard declared the ritual unauthorized and attempt to interrupt it, somehow the the Priestess accomplished an entire ritual in but a blink of an eye...

Wild magic and red star gloamings crackled through the In Between until the stalwart Warders of Sanctuary managed to contain them, but it's said that the Mystrilite and the popular Watcher Medic Flynn Ross were never seen again.

::[ Ches 17th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

The darks are full of the news that Sanctuary is at last unveiling itself to the Underdark. With construction work beginning on the Dunwarren Gate and Beetle Ranches in lands beyond, the humiliation of the failed Rothe farm seems behind the Red Guild's expansion agenda. This time, columns of Spellguard Animatrons shake the caverns with their steps, and the trained eyes of Watchers scan the darkness.

There is talk, too, leaked through the civil service or perhaps the Black Guild... of the Red Directorate's desire to organise diplomatic envoys to nearby settlements, as well as those across the Dark Lake.

But though much excited and sceptical talk is heard, it is not Upper Sanctuary that has felt the march of Greater Sanctuary. In the Sanctuary Below, news of Upper Sanctuary's movements has sent new waves of anxiety and malaise through the downtrodden folk... In response, the dominant cults have begun to jostle for influence... preaching, recruiting, and making claims, as though preparing for some expected conquest from above. (//%22http://www.efupw.com/forums/forum/information/information-for-new-players/64152-efu-r-factions-associations?p=554500#post554500%22) Though none seems forthcoming, especially with Director Glademore's "Right of Repentance" finding resistance from his own guild. Rumours tell that Roaldhe Gould remains unwilling to consider forgiving the crimes and debts of those who occupied his mansion -- no matter how virtuous they may be in the eyes of the gods.

Last, but not least, comes the talk of the Spellguard's preoccupation with an old problem returned... some contagion in the Machine, spreading out of control. There is talk of a stern response, to shut down valuable access chambers and begin a Machine-wide search for the entity known as "The Host".

::[ Ches 18th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Rumors spread of some sort of assault on a Scrapper convention that resulted in the theft of unknown objects and deaths of many Scrappers. A huge band of adventurers, Spellguard, Watchers, Ordinants, and others mustered to make a response.

Rumors speak of grotesque creatures covered with maggots and fungal growths that used a huge worm to burrow into old Dunwarren, and battle at terrible cost.

All manner of strange and implausible rumors spread as to how the entire affair concluded, but it is known that whatever scrap that was stolen was seemingly not recovered.

 

::[ Ches 23rd : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Rumours leak from the House of Governance of a diplomatic mission soon to be organised to formally meet the Master of the Mound in the name of Sanctuary. The details of the mission vary wildly. Some say that it is a cover for the slaying of the Red Dragon Magnatz. Others say that Magnatz, the great sorcerer, is to be captured and brought in chains to Serena Tower. Still others speak that the trickle of coal smugglers that secretly service Sanctuary's hunger for fuel will soon become much wealthier when a trade deal is struck. Some speak of the Mound's strategic importance to Sanctuary, as a route to the Lowerdark and a waystop upon the Low Road. Others say that Magnatz will be the first to purchase animatronic labour from Sanctuary, and free his monstrous minions.

The tales vary. But all agree on the one point... that Prefects and Officials - hungry to prove themselves and be chosen to lead the mission - are said to be scouting for a few suitable candidates to join them, and help determine the future of Sanctuary.

 

::[ Ches 25th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Citizens of Upper Sanctuary speak worriedly about a sudden assault that started in the middle of the Freedom Square. It is said that a small group of the Society of the Ordered Mind attacked a citizen from the shadows, kidnapping her right in front of the Watchers on guard duty. The motley crew of Ordinants managed to escape the Square swiftly but met resistance before they could reach their Chapterhouse. Two innocent citizens were caught in the middle of this fight, both of them seriously injured by explosive fire magic that the Ordinants were said to have used.

As the Ordinants bolted and locked the Chapterhouse behind them, the Watchers, some men of the Auxiliary and ordinary citizens gathered outside the Chapterhouse demanding the release of the assaulted citizen. Finally an angry Sergeant of the Watch arrived to the scene and cordoned the area. Then he entered the Chapterhouse with a group of Watchers as well as with a member of Auxiliary who pushed in front of him a badly injured Ordinant.

What exactly happened inside the Chapterhouse has remained blurry among the general populace but the rumours say a fight broke out again. After a while, the Watchers and Warders who went inside emerged from the Chapterhouse, carrying a burnt corpse of a citizen. Soon after them a battered crew of Ordinants, supposedly responsible for the kidnapping, walked out of the Chapterhouse and they all went to the Watchhouse.

A trial was held and one of the Ordinants, Hubert Cline, was sentenced to death while another by the name of Roland Vordhael received a heavy beating for his involvement in this unlawful and chaotic operation. Third Ordinant, Abberforth Bleakfyre, was exiled. At least one more Ordinant is rumoured to be receiving a judgement on her actions as the investigations to this sad affair continue.

The Ordinants claimed that the citizen had been a thrall who needed to be eliminated but in the trial, no substantial evidence to support this claim was actually found. Their wild, sudden and unauthorized actions against a citizens of Sanctuary have been largely deemed as unneeded vigilantism. Not only did the citizen Sybelle Verlisk suffer a burning death by their hands in a situation that was more than vague, two innocent bystanders were injured in the poorly planned abduction of this supposed thrall. The condition of the other two citizens is still critical but fortunately for the Society’s already tarnished public image, they are said to likely recover from their wounds.

Citizens are having a mixed range of emotions regarding this whole event. Some speak of the Ordinants with fear and anger, whispering that they are nothing but zealots who will attack anyone they want - with or without a proof of thralldom, paying no respect to the law enforcement of the Sanctuary. Other more aggressive souls have been seen and heard publicly shouting rude comments at any Ordinants passing by. Whether this event will calm down as "just a few bad apples in the basket" remains to be seen.

::[ Ches 28th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Rumours tell that a deal was struck between Magnatz the Red, and the city of Sanctuary.

But the events of todark tell of a price paid in blood. All of a sudden, it seemed, dozens of people made their way out of the Sanctuary gates in a trance. Knights and nobles, among them the old Donrick family of Sanctuary and other familiar faces. They travelled into the Underdark, followed by worried relatives and panicky adventurers, who vainly attempted to deter them from their destination... the Mound of Magnatz.

It is said that Magnatz had cast some spell over them, used some powerful ill-gotten relic containing a remnant of Siamorphe's power... in a ritual to call forth those of noble blood to his domain. There, to have their veins drained.

The rumours speak that Prefect Albrecht Vauclair did battle with the powerful giant sorcerer Magnatz to regain the lost relic, but after a valiant battle fell to the savage might of the Bloodmage.

Todark, the people of Sanctuary grimly observe, Magnatz drinks the blood of Sanctuary, toasting to its new alliance.

::[ Tarsakh 5th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Rumors speak that Director Szul and select few Spellguard Agents are garnering support for a dangerous freedom raid on the Outskirts of Ysinode. According to the tavern whispers, the director has stumbled by chance upon key information that could help strike at the heart of the Dread and free hundred of slaves.

Nevertheless, should it be successful, the names of those who ventured on such a dangerous task would surely be the talk of the town, and greatly aid in the Directory's popularity. Other voices are greatly worried that this operation would attract undue attention from the Dread Empire...

The assault is said to happen in the next few darks...

[ooc: EST Evening]

::[ Tarsakh 7th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

On this cycle, a joint operation between the Spellguard, the Watch, the Society and the Knights of the Golden Chalice -- led by Director Szul -- in the outskirts of Ysinode led to the liberation of hundreds of slaves, whom were all promptly checked for thralldom by Sanctuary's finest. While many slaves have perished during the escape, the operation is said to have been a success with hundreds of foul creation of the Dread Empire fallen by our saviors' hand as well as several illithids finding their demise.

Sanctuary, as a whole, was in festivities regarding the strike and the surge of new population is slowly being integrated into the city.


 

Wild Rumors in the Dark

The residents of the great Vault of Dunwarren are filled with all manner of rumor and wild tales of recent deeds and occurrences. Of particular note -

- The streets of Lower have become noticeably more tense as of late, with residents being rallied to the causes of three major cults: the gloomy Dwellers of Darkness, the optimistic Brotherhood of the Ascension, and the fearsome Cults of the Ooze. Although tensions between the three are merely simmering at this point, there's no doubt that eventually matters will come to a head.

- There is likewise a heightened tension between three major institutions of the Upper Sanctuary Establishment: the Watchers, the Reformed Order of the Spellguard, and the Society of the Ordered Mind are all seemingly at odds over various matters. It's known that many among the Watchers stand deeply opposed to recent political relations reached with the Mound of Magnatz, particularly the provision that calls for Sanctuary to start providing rare bloods to the fearsome Master of Magnatz. It's also whispered that both the Society and the Spellguard seem to perhaps both be searching for something somewhere in the darkness. Although what this may be is not known, it is noted among certain sly gossips of the Grotto that the Society seem more interested in matters of the Machine than in the past, and that the Spellguard have enlisted a gravel-mouthed dwarf on regular prospecting missions into the 'dark.

- On the subject of the Machine, certain Scrappers have begun to report the presence of heightened Chosen activity and renewed zeal of the monsters in its deepest sections. Strange new forms of Animatrons have been spotted, and some complain of an unpleasant mold that has begun to grow in damp & dark corners. On a more pleasant note, the water piped into Upper Sanctuary for the benefits of its residents has never been cleaner or done so with a greater water pressure.

- Of concern to some are reports of a powerful band of Chultan necromancers prowling around in the 'darkness, rumored to possess the ability to conjure forth powerful shadows and assemble armies of the undead. It's whispered that the Chultans have been digging up old bones of long dead monsters, and are working with the necromancer Thomas Alqvin to create some manner of powerful undead creature.

- And above all else, there is discussion of the Dread. Is it true that they are working to refit the old drow Traensyrian navy, once greatest naval power of the Dark Lake? How goes their conquest of the surface? Why have they made no great response to the recent raid on one of its outlying laboratories? Will they ever turn their attention to an emergent greater Sanctuary? What will happen if they do?

If you are current or returning player and interested in getting involved in any of these plots, don't hesitate to contact me or another DM on IRC to discuss how that might happen

::[ Tarsakh 18th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

It has been some darks since Sanctuary and the Mound struck a deal and exchanged Ambassadors. Rumours - often wild, or paranoid - persist about the details. What is true is that there is a half-drow provocateur serving as the "Mouth of Magnatz" in Sanctuary- and it is said that he refused testing for thralldom, flaunts the laws, and has been given every accommodation in the High Apartments along with his monstrous servants. This despite the extensive demands of blood, doubtless to fuel the giant's sorcery from the veins of Sanctuary..

Red Guild members are holding fast against the unrest, anger and criticism coming their way. Some claim the best is yet to come in the relationship with the Mound, particularly as trade truly begins to flourish. Their opponents among the Blacks counter that "Bloodhunters" are already being marched into the Watchhouse, that soon monsters will be walking the streets - and even sooner, perhaps rioters may mass violently in the streets again as they did during the Workmill Revolution.

Watchers are careful not to speak their minds in the open, as it is said the Patriot Inquest (//%22http://www.efupw.com/forums/forum/in-character-forums/house-of-governance-official-proclamations/643630-the-patriot-inquest%22) will very soon be felt in the ranks, and without the strong voice of Prefect Hyram Sinclair (gone to represent Sanctuary as Ambassador to the Mound) to defend their interests.

::[ Tarsakh 21st : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

The denizens of Lower remark upon the arrival of a motley band of individuals with large, prominent silver collars....

And what follows is a curious sending:

Quote::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by An Unknown Voice with a Sembian Accent : People of Sanctuary, within the streets of Lower Sanctuary can be found individuals around whose neck you will find a prominent silver collar. These individuals are bound by ancient magic to be utterly loyal to whoever defeats them last. ]::
::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by An Unknown Voice with a Sembian Accent : They are presently loyal to none, and surely need your help lest they be put to some terrible purpose. ]::

After some fracas in the streets, the word is spread that they do seem indeed loyal to any who gives them a good beating.

::[ Tarsakh 28th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

The streets of Lower have grown increasingly violent, with Ascencionists and Dwellers in Darkness often to be found scuffling on the streets. Many of the non-aligned of Lower are pointedly not yet throwing their loyalty to one side or another, instead weighing and evaluating how the respective cults handle themselves over the coming darks.

Of far more concern to many are the increasingly common and highly out of the ordinary presence of Rotting Creatures throughout the territories near Sanctuary and even within the Machine itself. Most notably the Machine has become filled with a strange and unpleasant mold with clumps of disgusting wet fungus seen growing here and there also, with the Rot creatures often to be founding crowding around the fungal clumps, almost as if they were drawn there....

Certain Scrappers report that they've spotted pools of rotting sap and juices glowing green at occasional moments, and it's almost as if the mold starting to cover much of the Machinery then grows stronger.

Perhaps most alarming yet, some Scrappers report that the mold seems to be rusting and damaging sections of the Machine and some of the scrap they've been finding has been of a very poor quality.

:[ Tarsakh 29th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

It began with a sending:

Quote::[ Spellguard Broadcast : Attention. Attention. The Reformed Order of the Spellguard will be conducting a brief test. Do not be alarmed. The elderly and easily excitable are advised to find shelter in-doors. ]::

Citizens report that the reclusive and famously bad-tempered Animatron Dhimani, secret genius of the Spellguard's machinery operations, was seen to saunter out from the Serena Tower with a curious device held in his left-animatronic hand and with a large Animatron carrying an umbrella following him obediently.

After making several remarks near Freedom Square, the irascible Animator manipulated the device. With a great groan of rusty old pipes, water began to trickle down from pipes throughout the Sanctuary vault - a deluge of water raining down upon Upper and turning Lower's streets into a terrible muck of mud. Residents of the Canal Ward report that the Canal Waters frothed enormously during this time, to the point that it would have been highly dangerous for any ship to move in or out of the Canal.

After several minutes of downpour, it's said that Animator Dhimani used the device once more, the water stopped, and Sanctuary was left the same as before - just a little muddier.

::[ First of Mirtul : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Sanctuary above and below is filled with gossip regarding the events of yesterdark....

First there was a public and & controversial trial against Ordinant Dorissa Sennesse.

During the trial, it's said that a band of Ascencionists took advantage of the distraction to attack some Spellguard Outpost deep in the Machine. It's said that the assault was unsuccessful, although several of its defenders were slain and some damage done.

The Spellguard later retaliated by releasing their experimental blue "Crazy Gas" into Lower. Most of its inhabitants, warned first by a shrieking halfling scrapper and later by the Spellguard's own announcement, retreated indoors and sealed their windows and doors as best they could. Those who could not find shelter succumbed to the gas, temporarily driven into a sick, frothing, violent fit. Many of the residents of the Rat's Nest were particularly afflicted, with outbreaks of violence and mad stabbings....

Later, when the gas started to dissipate, a single Spellguard Auxiliary took it upon himself to prowl the streets and abduct those Lowersmen that he could find. After wild bloody battle in the streets, it's said that the Auxiliary was captured and later executed. Perhaps in retaliation, am Ascencionist Collared elf who had been taken captive was stoned to death in Upper Sanctuary.

Some in Lower speak approvingly of the actions of the Brotherhood in attacking the infrastructure of the hated Spellguard, however many are angry of the provocation that led to another gassing and remind others that the raid did not even succeed.

The power vacuum in Lower endures...
 

::[ Mirtul 5th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

The trial of Ordinant Dorissa Sannesse has concluded in a remarkable and unexpected way. After a lengthy exchange of evidence, the notoriously impatient Prefect Blaggit asked that the Ordinant swear on the name of her deity whether or not she had been involving herself and conspiring with the Cultists of the Brotherhood of the Ascension. After the Ordinant declared in the name of Helm that she had not, Prefect Blaggit decided - with some hesitation - to offer her a choice of either exile or an opportunity to prove her innocence with Trial by Combat.

She chose Trial by Combat, and it was decided that she would face the notoriously dangerous Auxiliary Ambrose Barsali. To the surprise of many, during the combat, the Ordinant managed to hold the Auxiliary in place with an enchantment and - after much labored striking - cut him down. As he lay bleeding at her feet, the Ordinant coldly brought up a device of searing ray and ended his life despite it having been made clear that the conditions of the duel were such that she did not need to kill him.

Enraged by what was seemingly an act of deliberate execution, the other Auxiliary present - led by the chainsword wielding halfling Engineer Rustbucket - attacked and made an effort to save Ambrose's life. In response, the Society surged together to defend their sister that the gods had deemed innocent. After a fracas in which the Society were largely defeated, at last Prefect Blaggit restored order and the two groups slunk off to their respective quarters.

What is clear is that a terrible chill has fallen between the Society of the Ordered Mind and the Reformed Order of the Spellguard. Many of Sanctuary's citizens are uneasy that such an extreme and public rift has widened between two of the three most important and powerful institutions.

More fighting in the streets of Lower this dark. Starting out small as nothing more than what appeared as a series of duels between a lone Ooze Cultist and Dwellers from the Sacred Cave, matters quickly escalated and broke out into a larger brawl with more parties involved seeking to spill their share of blood.

Rumour has it that a member of each Cult was eventually dragged off to an uncertain fate. Tension in Lower Sanctuary remains high...

::[ Mirtul 17th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Although held in relative secrecy, rumours begin to spread of the trial of Prefect Yorrick Vanderbleu... over some alleged treasonous dealings with Mutulakt or Fortress Mur. Though the Prefect seems no worse off for the experience, and must have been innocent or spared if the rumours are true.

Other tales tell of the distribution soon beginning of Director Szul Thrazaluun's "Charles' Revenge Mark II" device... a machine for adventurers used to launch explosive projectiles. To get one, it is said an adventurer's license must be presented to a Clerk at the House of Trade. The Black Guild claims a rare victory, through the negotiations performed by Thrazaluun. Though some in the guild remark bitterly that the devices will probably be used in yet more brainless attacks on Ysinode.

::[ Mirtul 25th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

It began, as so often it does, with an earthquake.

Shortly after the trembles ceased, panicked sendings and rumors spread of some massive, many-hued giant of pure baublium that emerged from the choppy waves of the Dark Lake. Wherever the Baublium Giant went, wild magic and devastation followed. After rampaging through the Underdark... it chased a group of adventurers back to the Barbican of Dunwarren itself, there smashing one mighty defensive animatron to pieces and slaying several Watchers.

After the Barbican, it descended and rampaged about the In Between, before descending into the Illusion.

It rampaged about in the Illusion. Until at last... with a terrible crackle-fizzle, the Illusion faded and was broken, and the Giant rampaged in Upper Sanctuary itself, destroying yet more Animatrons and defenders.

To the horror of many, it rampaged into Starag's Rest, focused on the unchanging form of Grigor Starag, and smashed the venerable stone of the Old Councilor to dust. Swatting away the panicked adventurers that chipped away at it, it rushed back out and headed towards the Street of the Gods. There it found the young priest of Grumbar, Kathaz Myzaram, and pulverized him.

At this point.... Society Ritualist Rallick Dess began shouting out words of praise to Grumbar, which seemed to enrage the Baublium Giant even further and led it to chase him through the streets. The other Ordinants, joining in these words of Grumbarite praise, led the Giant into their very own Chapterhouse.

Although what happened next is somewhat unclear, it is known that there was massive fighting within between representatives of the Spellguard and Ordinants of the Society. In the end, those not of the Society found themselves somehow ejected by some unknown force... and huge, seemingly impenetrable crystalline growths grew to cover the exterior of the Chapterhouse. The wild magic ceased and it's whispered that the huge mass of Baublium was somehow absorbed by some secret Crystal that the Society had long hidden from all others not of their order.

As a great mass of adventurers and Sanctuary defenders stood staring at the now Crystal-covered Chapterhouse, several emerged from within and declared that they would have no part in what was done. Commander Markem stated that the Society had fractured and those within now served an entity of some unknown origin. He and others stated that they would depart Sanctuary and continue to pursue their Crusade in their own way.

Spellguard Animatrons and Auxiliaries have taken up position in a siege surrounding the Chapterhouse, and it's now widely considered that a state of open war exists between the two organizations.

Time will tell which group proves to be triumphant.

::[ Mirtul 26th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Strange events abound once more this dark. As many fishermen and traders upon the Dark Lake went about their business, they report suddenly seeing a huge beam of golden light burst forth from the Shore near the Blue Mushroom and plunged into the Lake itself, standing as a column of brightness in the murk. Many fearful and superstitious crews steered well clear of this oddity, but it is rumoured some in Sanctuary went to investigate. What transpired is not widely known, but they reportedly found the smouldering corpse of the enigmatic Magistrar Klementin Alvinciz by the shore...

Later that same dark a harried man by the name of Isar D'Qur made his way into Upper Sanctuary, and relayed messages from the supposedly deceased Knights of the Golden Chalice. He told a wild tale of the rise of a mad and terrible "God" beneath the waters, the former leader of the Knights said to have conducted a black rite and emerged as an undead monstrosity. Confusion and disbelieve swirls around the rumour mill of Upper Sanctuary, but the Priory of the Golden Chalice stands all but deserted, save for two Knights and their ward, the "Prince" Chesley...

::[ Second of Kythorn : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Rumors spread in Sanctuary that a large group of children were observed being hurriedly escorted from the Sanctuary above to some waiting vessel in the Canal Ward. According to report, the vessel - crewed with duergar - departed swiftly as soon as all the children were on board....

 

::[ Second of Kythorn : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Sanctuary is a state of tense near-panic after reports of recent events.

It's said that the Directorate offered a temporary truce with the Society of the Ordered Mind and authorized their strike against the Dread Fleet in Traensyr.

Although there is a degree of confusion about what happened exactly, it is generally believed:

That the assault was largely a failure.

That Clerk Wolfgang Kreutzhof was revealed as a thrall of the Dread Empire, and was intimately involved in ensuring that the strike was a failure.

That Rhiannon Kingsley herself was taken by the Dread.

That Traensyr nonetheless experienced a number of powerful explosive blasts, and that the old Temple of Jultar itself may have collapsed on the Lower Traensyrian Quarters. That four ships of the Traensyrian Navy was destroyed, leaving many more.

That although many adventurers and Ordinants died, a core group survived by virtue of the strange and uncertain powers of the Society's Crystal.

::[ Kythorn 9th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

The people of Sanctuary nervously whisper of the now formalized declaration of war upon the Spellguard from the Society of the Ordered Mind.

Shortly after the proclamation first appeared, it's said that a Spellguard Outpost deep in the Machine was attacked and largely destroyed. Indeed, the high water pressure and purity of water that Sanctuary's citizens have as of late enjoyed is now gone.

The Spellguard continue to blast at the crystalline formations that surround the old Society Chapterhouse, yet - thus far - it shows little sign of being broken....

::[ Kythorn 13th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

It began with a note of nostalgia for the darks when Lower Sanctuary was emptier and prey to the skulking Chosen...

QuoteCitizens are warned of increased Chosen activity within the deeper bounds of the Dunwarren Metropolis. A perfunctory test of the Dunwarren ventilation systems will thus commence shortly. Thank you for your consideration, and remember, the Spellguard cares.

As Lower Sanctuary filled with gas, the people fled indoors, taking shelter with the Brotherhood in their Cathedral, the Dwellers in their Sacred Cave, the ale supplies in the Crone, or their own little havens. Soon the streets were empty and silent, but for the stray cries of the robbed, the beaten, and the mad.

It was then that the Dwellers in Darkness took the crisis as an opportunity to strike against the Cathedral of the Ascension. A motley band stalked through the gases, led by Isabel Talia one of the Fades that inspired the wretches of the cave. A battle within the Cathedral ensued, leaving the corpses of innocents and Ascensionists alike strewn around the altar to Frederick Bresley.

In the aftermath, neither of the feuding Cults are left unbloodied, but the Ascensionists have suffered the more grievous blow. The Cult of the Ascension are seen to pile and bury their dead... meanwhile stringing up the corpses of their fallen enemies to blasphemously bathe them in the light of the Ascended One. But their number have taken dramatic losses, their Cathedral was desecrated, and a mood of impotent anger and disbelief pervades.

The Ibrandulin step more boldly in Lower Sanctuary, but their once benevolent veneer as the saviours of Lower Sanctuary has been stripped away by the deaths of innocent Lowersmen taking shelter from the gas in the Cathedral, and some of their strongest and most devoted Dwellers are not to be seen. The familiar faces of Abbaoro, Amber, Isabel, and Onyche all met their ends in the Cathedral... along with a number of others said to be Goretusk mercenaries - including Gurnkey Goretusk himself.

It is told that the Man in the Mask himself appeared at the Cathedral, and aided no small amount in the deciding battle... alongside the winged elf Talaspir, a great warrior freed by the Ascensionists some time ago from the clutches of a blood slave caravan en-route to the Mound. But the last known (if self-appointed) Seeker, a young man by the name of Niel Dannon was slain. And Gorzhel Beedle, the friendly face of the Cathedral... was also laid low.

By the dark's end, when the streets of Lower clear and begin to show signs of life again, the accusing words of the Masked Man rise above the quiet tension of a new chapter in the war among the cults.

Quote from: "The Man in the Mask"Today a dagger was thrust by the shadow of a tyrant into the heart of this free Sanctuary. On that coward dagger was engraved the name "Duke Barkely". It is strange... so strange... Even as the Order of the Spellguard grows weaker, more desperate, and more fearful with every passing hour- the love you hold for your chains and your masters has intensified as much. They are all that you know.

I have a question for you, Sanctuary. Your fathers, brothers, and sons among the workers have been crushed and discarded... The Society of the Ordered Mind has thrown off Red and donned Blue, and now their Chapterhouse is under siege - their crime? - refusing to heel for their true Commander.

The very children of Sanctuary have been sold to slavers... [A long pause] I have a question for you, Sanctuary.

What will it take?

Meanwhile, a deeper darkness comes over Lower Sanctuary, as Frederick's torchbearers dwindle.

::[ Kythorn 19th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

This dark, the quiet streets of Lower Sanctuary was broken by the curious whispers of onlookers gawking at the arrival of a group of twenty freed slaves. Escorted by a number of Society of the Ordered Mind Ordinants and a handful of Lowerfolk, the freed slaves were guided to the New Beacon where Winston gave them what warm food he could muster and relatively comfortable beds.

Much louder, however, was the angry and rage-filled arrival of a duergar in the centre of Freedom Square in Upper Sanctuary. Claiming himself to be Ambassador Durmakt Grindnose of Mutulakt and flanked by two guards wearing the dark red and black steel of the duergar island fort, the duergar went into a rage calling for representatives of Sanctuary to show themselves.

Stepping out from the House of Governance, Prefects Isar D'Qur and Celia Riovane greeted the ambassador and quickly found themselves assaulted by the duergar's bellowing voice. In a constant, ear-deafening voice, the ambassador claimed that twenty slaves bound for Mutulakt were stolen by people of Sanctuary. While it was explained to the angry ambassador that those who freed the slaves were likely Ordinants and enemies of Sanctuary themselves, the ambassador countered by referring to the public confession of one Tristan of the Silvered Lord who, in a sending made just minutes prior to his arrival, admitted to aiding the Ordinants.

Accepting none of the response from the Prefects, the the ambassador continued to rant about Mutulakt's lost slaves before finally saying, in a quieter voice, that the duergar city would get its slaves. One way or another, the ambassador added, making an ominous reference to the honoured guests that Mutulakt was currently hosting, Mutulakt would get its twenty slaves.

After the still fuming ambassador finally departed, a number of people in Freedom Square began lamenting and arguing over the arrangement made with the duergar city. The anxiety quickly spread into the common populace. One could easily tell, just by seeing the look of regret and worry on their face, which parent had their children safely at home, and which parent did not.

This very dark, Auxiliary Hector Thorn lead a company of men to reclaim an old gemstone mine in the vicinity of the Windy Canyon caves. Is is said aberrants had nested within the mine's lodgings, and that stranger things had been made to come alive within the gemstones themselves. Although the company was successful in claiming many raw gems to be processed at the Workmill, those present claim the mine finally collapsed as they slew a drow jewel enchanter. Though undeniable feats of battle were claimed this day, the asset that such ressources might have proved is now lost forever...

::[ Kythorn 21st : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Todark ended enthrallment testing procedures following the betrayal of the Society's attack on Traensyr, with some now calling for immediate action to crush Traensyr with the full military force of Sanctuary, and others calling for the return of Sanctuary's children from Mutulakt.

The rumours of Upper Sanctuary have dwelt long on the matters of the children and the siege against the crystal barrier protecting what remains of the Society of the Ordered Mind. But little news has come from Mutulakt, nurturing a plethora of wild claims about what the duergar have done. And the Chapterhouse remains unconquered despite increasingly ardent and sophisticated efforts by the Spellguard. The mysterious Society Crystal, some say, seems to be responding... thwarting... even predicting the Spellguard's tactics. Others say it is only a matter of time before the Spellguard resolve to end the siege and defeat the Society overcomes all concerns and constraints.

Those with long memories, and most members of the Black Political Guild, compare the troubles with Mutulakt to Sanctuary's previous dealings with duergar, in which many from Sanctuary-that-was were robbed of their banked savings. Much more is now at stake, and the Red Guild's calls for a greater Sanctuary now hang in the balance.

The death of the Black Director Szul Thrazaluun has been unwelcome news to the Reds, who viewed him and his Machine Age agenda as complementary to the Red vision. Without Szul, the word from the House of Governance tells that the reticence (some say cowardice) of Director Austanias Glademore, and the sluggish pace of developing new military options seems likely to delay decisions on the Directorate's most pressing crisis for now. Worse for the Reds, Szul's death also demands the election of a new Director - an election the Reds are in a poor position to fight. The Black Guild, by contrast, seems more energised than most have ever seen it. Red Guild Members hopeful for a bolder Sanctuary lament the sorry situation they've landed in.

As Upper Sanctuary wrestles demons of its own creation, Lower Sanctuary has begun to silently submit to the Dwellers in Darkness. After the raid on the Cathedral of the Ascension, three new sects of Dwellers have emerged...

• The sect of the Darkmen, wrapping themselves from head to toe in dark rags, linger in empty streets preaching oblivion... and are whispered to be a source of a recent spate of murders and disappearances.
  
• The sect of the Feasters, having tasted the hearty food and drink they plundered from homes and holes once protected by the Ascension Cult, now eschew the measly "Shadowstuff" the Ibrandulin weave from the Sacred Caves. And they speak of "the Last Meal", a final feast in which everything will be devoured by the darkness.
  
• The sect of the Black King's Bastards are only a little more than bandits, opportunistically coattailing the Dwellers in Darkness for blood, fun, and coin. They have laid claim to a few chambers of the Fortress of Lower Sanctuary, in the name of some heretical "Black King"... but they mostly seem bored with the success of the Dwellers, and rumours tell of decadent and depraved events going on within the Fortress.
  

Despite the power they now timidly wield in Lower Sanctuary, the Dwellers of the Sacred Cave do not seem totally comfortable with the new sects under their sway. Division and difference is already testing the Dwellers' tolerance, and pulling apart the blanket of darkness poised to snuff out the Cult of the Ascension.

Meanwhile, in the sewers far below, rumours tell of very worrying developments. The slime has risen...

::[ Kythorn 23rd : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

The past two darks have changed the ongoing Spellguard siege of the Society Chapterhouse, into a grander siege of the Shield by the Society and its Crystal.

It began with the Spellguard's latest attempt at penetration of the Chapterhouse using an array of beam cannons fuelled with large quantities of baublium. The Society of the Ordered Mind entered Upper Sanctuary in response and destroyed the cannons before slipping away.

The cannons, however, had broken through the barrier... and a team led by Phaele Gedreghost took to the Chapterhouse. However, rumours from the survivors tell of the demise of high calibre Spellguard assets Nelly Rustbucket and Phaele Gedreghost... adding to the erosion of confidence in the Spellguard.

Since that incident, the Spellguard have created a perimeter around the Chapterhouse, and many in Sanctuary await their next movements.

Todark, it was the Society that made a move, conquering the illusion with a fragile crystalline army and erecting crystalline spires which hum and vibrate - churning the illusion around them. They spoke to Sanctuary...

QuoteI greet you... people of Sanctuary, with a message of peace. I am the Speaker for the Crystal. The bearer of the Truth. The Crystal has long been nurtured for this dark... that which will be remembered as the beginning of the downfall of the Dread Empire.

In some darks' time, the Shield will fall... and the Society of the Ordered Mind will displace the machinery of the Spellguard with a new Order- an order of Truth... an order Blessed by the Great Crystal. All the lies, all the illusions, will be gone.

Do you wish to know the abuses you have been dealt? Do you wish to know that which has been concealed from you? You have but to join us... Gather baublium to our mighty Crystal... remove your rings... and join us in dismantling the false world.

Now Upper Sanctuary itself is under siege. All within are beckoned by the two warring forces. An ascendent Society and the mysterious Crystal they worship, who promise the downfall of the Dread. Or the Reformed Order of the Spellguard, the guardians of the City of Sanctuary for over one hundred and sixty years, who tout that the promise of Final Sanctuary is near at hand.

Both call for the Baublium of citizens to be delivered to them, and both begin to make honeyed words, evocations of fear, assertions of their authority, and charitable gestures to secure support. Only the people of Sanctuary can now decide the true victor of the war...

The people of Lower Sanctuary look on in numb surprise, as the fate of the 'Spelltyrants' and of Sanctuary hangs in the balance.

::[ Kythorn 24th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

One dark after the Crystal forces of the Society of the Ordered Mind began its occupation of the illusion shielding Upper Sanctuary, Dunwarren was wracked by earthquakes. At first thought to be a natural phenomenon, the tremors proved to be the work of an opportunistic tribe of orogs who used explosions to bypass the Barbican and tunnel their way into the illusionary hazy ruins that were in reality Upper Sanctuary.

In response, the Crystal forces formed a defensive line in the ruins, bringing their crystal blades to bear against the orogs alongside a number of adventurers who decided to also fight the humanoid brutes. The battle was a brutal slog but was, for the most part, isolated to a minor portion of the illusion.

Chaos, however, quickly grabbed hold as a number of Spellguard Auxiliaries and a number of their allies joined the fray, attacking the defending battle line from behind while accusing those fighting alongside the Crystal forces as dissidents and traitors. With the defenders divided and distracted, orogs began to break through the lines, skirmishes began to bleed into different sections of the ruins.

Crystal warriors, orogs, and adventurers all fought one another in all corners of the illusion. And though the orogs were defeated first, the battles continued for some more time afterwards among the Crystal Warriors, Auxiliaries, and adventurers before the fighting eventually petered out. In the end, the most notable rumoured results of the messy melee included: the Ordinant dwarf Deoradhain Stonespliter being captured and dragged away by an Auxiliary; while War-Priest Gaius Calvo was last seen chasing Ordinant Rallick Dess into the Lower Ruins.

As word began to reach the ears of the commoners in Upper Sanctuary, the war continued but blades and bludgeons were replaced by conversations and arguments. Some pointed to the event as evidence that the Society of the Ordered Mind, along with their Crystal forces, were actually quite capable of being decent defenders of the city. Others, however, argued that the Crystal forces attracted the unwanted attention of the orogs in the first place and that a hidden city was a safe city.

Regardless of who the commoners voiced their support for, it was accepted by all that it would not be words that decided the outcome of this war.

::[ First of Flamerule : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

After the words of the Directorate and Commander Barkely, sentiment in the city of Sanctuary has solidified in favour of the Spellguard and the new promised world of Final Sanctuary. Brash new Aspirants, Auxiliary, and Watchers walk Upper Sanctuary gathering baublium and booming with adulations for the Spellguard and the Directorate. Citizens are more cautious than usual in what they say about the Spellguard and about Sanctuary.

Among the rumours about the ongoing battle between the Society and the Spellguard comes talk of baublium gained in mining operations on the Dark Lake, from omens of Mystryl, from Scrapper Conventions, and more.

Yet the siege upon Sanctuary's shield has made little progress. Distant battles in the Underdark are said to have favoured the adherents of the Society's Crystal - an entity which is coming to be known as "the Ordered Mind". But the Spellguard boast having strengthened the Shield, and speculations continue to mount about the form their retaliation will take.

::[ Third of Flamerule : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Todark, the gates of Dunwarren were a strange spectacle indeed.

Commander Idraen Markem of the Society is said to have returned from the Lowerdark after many darks. Flanked by Malark Amblecrown and Tau Masemba, he beseeched the Directorate to grant entrance to he and his men and allow them to assume the rightful place of the Society of the Ordered Mind within Sanctuary.

After a tense exchange, the Directorate and Markem failed to come to agreement. Instead, it is said that a vote will be held to determine whether or not Markem and his followers will be accepted into the city. Some speak of this favourably, calling it a stroke of genius and moral fortitude from Austanias Glademore... others say it is another example of the spinelessness of the elf and the indecision of the Directorate.

The rumours speak of what this all means for the siegework of the "Crystal cultists", whether Markem can be trusted and whether he will fight his former friends, but most of all... they run wild with talk of the freaks - tentacled, many-eyed, inhuman, "aberrant" - that stood amongst the lost brothers and sisters of the Society. Sanctuary will soon stand to vote on what may be its most dubious allies yet.

In seven darks' time, Markem's Ordinants will return to have their answer.

::[ Flamerule 22nd : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Commander Idraen Markem, Malark Amblecrown, and their followers returned to the gates of Dunwarren some darks past and were conditionally welcomed into Sanctuary. They have since been relegated to a section of the Public Housing Vault, where all kinds of rumours are spreading of strange occurrences, thralldom, and aberrations. Fear and anger among the poor folk of Starag's Rest has been directed at the Red Guild, and Finn Mouldercrest in particular, who had won the love and support of the common people there. But most of Upper Sanctuary go on with their lives largely unconcerned by the return of the Commander and the strange men in his midst. Some even celebrate it as a sure blow against the worshippers of the "Ordered Mind", though the Commander himself declines to spill the blood of his brothers and sisters.

Rumours also tell of a quest to the island of Ymph which has seen some rare old works returned to Sanctuary. But it is said that of the ten companions who set out - among them two noted Watchers Sergeant Iestryn Delvar and Ilythir Faelandlar, and a promising Spellguard Aspirant - only three returned: The late Spellguard Agent Nthras Nasvana, the Spellguard Auxiliary Tybalt L'Arcell, and the Disgraced Black Guild Prefect Isar D'Qur. The dragon is still believed to be alive, with many treasures yet unclaimed.

The darks ahead are uncertain. The Society and the Spellguard are each preparing for a great battle. The children of Sanctuary still wait in Mutulakt under the 'protection' of the Duergar. The Cults of Lower Sanctuary rest in the uneasy dominance of the bloated Ibrandulin.

Meanwhile, threats gather. News of Traensyr's buildup has been scarce, but Dread movements and spies have been increasingly sighted in the Underdark of late (most terrifying are tales of the enormous, enthralled Pride of Jultar loose in the 'dark). The Chosen, as well, have begun to grow bolder as the Watchers and Warders withdraw to reinforce Upper Sanctuary.

While the Dunwarren gates have been refurbished by the efforts of the Red Directorate, Sanctuary's own naval buildup has delivered only "The Jewel" (quickly commandeered for Spellguard projects) and the skeletons of a few other vessels. And no one dares to raise the spectre of what may happen in the event of a Dread invasion.

The alliances forged, the armies gathered, the betrayals committed, and the secret weapons found in the times ahead will prove decisive in the coming battle...

QuoteOOC: Posts will be made in individual faction and association forums about diplomacy & possibilities regarding coming events.

::[ Eleasis 4th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Many sights can be seen in passing in the city of Sanctuary...

The Sanctuary Watchers sharpening their weapons and drilling in the streets.

The Reformed Order of the Spellguard and their Auxiliary hard at work, firming up the defenses of Sanctuary's most important assets... busily chasing deals and ideas... collecting baublium... delving into the Machine... and in all ways preparing. The most intriguing rumours have been those of an enormous animatron recovered from the Machine, doubtless to be very quickly converted to Spellguard control and used in the coming battle.

It is said that the Mound of Magnatz the Red has transported a great cauldron of brew to Sanctuary, as a token of support. And tales of Idraen Markem's strange Society continue to come out of the Public Housing Vaults, with notes of fear, fury and resentment.

Other events in Upper Sanctuary, which have only come about very recently, are the terrible rages of Director Roaldhe Gould. A series of public outbursts and incidents have followed in his wake todark. Some say the stress of the war is getting to him, while others say there has been some more serious disagreement among Sanctuary's elite.

All throughout Sanctuary, preparations are underway for uncertain times...

In the Siegeworks, and outside of Upper Sanctuary, much else goes on...

The Crystal Spires which have long stood dispersed about the illusion have been dismantled and carted to the centre of the illusion... where they are being reconstructed together for some unknown purpose.

Some say there is some movement among the cults- Ascensionists, Ooze, and Hoarrans -though to what end is not known... for they are few and keep their heads down in the dark times below. Far more note the strange and out-of-control squatters and upstarts that the bloated Ibrandulin have attracted to their caverns and streets. Some even say they have added a pretend dark elf House to the list of bizarre sects in their midst.

Meanwhile, there are stirrings in the Boneyard, and in the colonies of the Myconids.

And strangest of all, there is talk among the druids of the dark about the coming of a Dragon.

::[ Eleasis 7th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

The titanic battle between the Reformed Order of the Spellguard and the Society of the Ordered Mind is over. The Spellguard were victorious, and it is said that the promise of Final Sanctuary will now be fulfilled. But it has come at a cost. The aftermath of the war has left Upper Sanctuary in a battered state, if relieved.

While the war raged in a glitching, illusory battlefield somewhere between Upper Sanctuary and the Illusory Ruins, the emptied streets of Upper Sanctuary felt a flurry of activity. All over Upper Sanctuary, graffiti and property damage can be seen. Of most note, all public statues of Former Spellguard Commander Stephanos Simms have been broken. With fewer Watchers and Animatrons than usual on post or patrol- given the losses sustained in the battle against the Society -citizens freely gawk at the works of vandalism, which most put down to the Brotherhood of Ascension. Much laughter is heard...

Word says that in the illusion, the crystal spires have crumbled. Now and then, adventurers and wanderers claim to have seen scenes of the battle playing out... the final stands of the Society's finest warriors: Ritualists Rallick Dess and Algarn Granitesoul,

Meanwhile, the Baublium Gauge has taken a dramatic plunge...

A few items of business remain until this chapter of Sanctuary's history is over. The destruction of the Crystal, a Ceremony of Victory, and a grand feast to be hosted by Director Roaldhe Gould.

::[ Eleasis 18th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

News spreads of a raid of the Chapterhouse, conducted by the Watchers and Warders and volunteers, which ended with the implosion of much of the Chapterhouse and the destruction of the storied Society Crystal.

A dim aftermath has continued to creep over Sanctuary, with the occasional candle-sputter of peripheral chaos to light up demons lurking in the dark. The Chosen. The Dread. The Cultists of Lower Sanctuary. And other fears.

The blows to Sanctuary still smart, and small humiliations linger and fester in the streets... but already a reaction is building. Mutterings of patriotic fervor, war widows cleaning off Ascensionist graffiti, questions and protests gathering over the children still far away in Mutulakt, and the first giddy sparks of expectation for the promises of Final Sanctuary.

They say that the Ceremony of Victory is to be held soon...

[hide="The Ceremony of Victory"]//OOC: About 12 hours from this post, the "Ceremony of Victory" event will be held in Sanctuary, rewards and medals will be bestowed to PCs from the recent events.

Surviving PCs from the final battle between Spellguard and Society... & PCs who raided the Chapterhouse are all invited to attend. But will receive their rewards regardless. More on this after the event.[/hide]

...celebrating the sacrifices of those living and dead who stood for Sanctuary, and paving the way forward for the city.

And all the while, somewhere buried in the rubble of the Chapterhouse, a shard of crystal softly glows.

::[ Eleasis 19th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

The Ceremony of Victory occurred todark. It began with the remembrance of the sacrifices of those lost. Commander Duke Barkely and Sheriff Marshall Greer posthumously raised outstanding personnel to higher ranks... among them Operative Phaele Gedreghost, Chief Engineer Nelly Rustbucket, Operative Bartholomew Shaw, and Sergeant Amber Nettlefield.

Just as the awards were to be given, explosions destroyed the central monuments of Freedom Square and killed a number of citizens. Although disrupted, the Ceremony quickly shifted to the House of Governance. There, after the honours were bestowed, it is said that the Commander of the Spellguard made inspiring words about the future of Sanctuary.

The rumours tell that further cooperation between the Watchers and Warders is coming. Some insist wild-eyed that the Watchers themselves will soon become Animatrons... but most reserve judgement on the Commander's "special program", waiting to see if the promised new technology to revolutionize law enforcement will truly come to pass. Most celebrate the news, seeing tighter cooperation as necessary given the troubles of the recent darks.

Patriotic fervor has only risen with the explosive events... with many blaming Lower Sanctuary. Others name dark elves, and the traitorous Prefect Isar D'Qur as responsible. There are frenzied calls to "Gas Lower!" or invade the Sanctuary Below... crushing it once and for all under the might of Sanctuary. Calmer voices urge caution, that Sanctuary - although done with the Crystal War - is far from through with its full share of perils.

[hide="Ceremony of Victory - Notes for Absentees"]//OOC: For those PCs unable to get to the event... If you were a survivor of either the Meeting of the Minds or the Raid on the Society Chapterhouse, contact me for your reward. [/hide]

::[ Second of Eleint : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

As the darks go by... Rumours swirl of a large shipment of Baublium reaching Sanctuary, escorted by adventurers and Spellguard personnel aboard the Jewel. As it is gradually fed into the Refinery, the reserves reach heights never before seen in history. Word intensifies about the coming of Final Sanctuary, and what precisely it means for the city and its people.

Meanwhile, it is said that the victory feast of Director Roaldhe Gould is soon to be held...

//OOC: The Feast event is set to occur around 9 hours from this post.

::[ Third of Eleint : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

By most accounts a joyous occasion, there were to be but a few incidents which lingered in rumour about Gould's great feast. That was before the murders came to light. Now all has been forgotten, except for the two men dressed as Mouldercrest employees (whether they are genuine employees, or not, is hotly debated) who slew numerous accomplished chefs in cold blood.

The story from the ensuing trial is that the men claimed to be working for former Director Edgin Crane. They were trying to kill Director Roaldhe Gould, they were helping ruin the feast and remove the chefs so that a new restaurant could dominate the Red Lantern.

Many mutterings are heard about the murderers and their story. And many rumours fly about the status of Director Gould himself. Some say he is dead, and that an announcement of a new election will come soon. Others say that he left the feast perfectly alright - and is merely sleeping off one of the greatest meals Sanctuary has ever had (or is likely to have, in the future, with the murder of all the best chefs). Still wilder tales gain credence and crash - in waves - as the city waits for news on what really happened, and what is to become of the conspirators.

Some darks past, Watchers stormed the apartments of Former Director Edgin Crane. Crane, by all accounts drugged or drunk, squealed and hollered indignantly as he was dragged to the Watchhouse... there to await trial.

No one had seen Director Roaldhe Gould for over a tenday. The heart of the Directorate was beating slow and twisted... delivering no confidence, as talk of conspiracies amongst its members deflated celebratory and patriotic moods.

It is said that the trial, overseen by a grim and skeptical Prefect Hyram Synclair and prosecuted by the zealous Sergeant Odelstad, was never resolved in guilt or innocence. Instead, a Watcher betrayed the course of justice and led Red Guilders - baying for Crane's blood - into the courtroom. The corpses of Edgin Crane, and others, were taken away by Scriveners.

Still, though many darks have passed, Director Gould has not emerged. But throughout Sanctuary, something is afoot. Watcher ranks have begun to swell, while the sight of Auxiliary has dwindled in proportion. Rumours have begun to flow that the Sheriff has spoken to the Watchers of a temporary suspension of elections, and of war that awaits. Talk swirls about who was really responsible for Gould's disappearance, with strong denials of Crane's involvement uttered in many a quiet conversation.

Meanwhile, Majordomo Quintus Zhelk and other subordinates of Roaldhe's - including Director Finn Mouldercrest and his Prefect Yorrick Vanderbleu - now manage the vast Gould estate and industries.

The rumours continue to come out of the Public Housing Vaults of strange happenings among Idraen Markem's men - lingering from the darks of the Crystal War. Watchers patrol more often, and checkpoints are set up in Starag's Rest from dark to dark. Some say the government knows not what to do with these troublesome folk. Others believe none of it will not matter when, at last, Final Sanctuary comes.

::[ Eleint 22nd : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Throughout Sanctuary notices go up and several sendings proclaim the imminence of an important announcement from the government of Upper Sanctuary this very dark. Citizens, eager for any news in the aftermath of Gould's feast and the troubles of the past few months are seen gathering to discuss what revelations might yet be to come. Helpful civil servants and employees of the state are seen informing any inquirers to assemble at the House of Governance in six hours...

//Approximately 6 hours from this post. 11PM GMT.

::[ Marpenoth 11th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Such tales have spread through Sanctuary...

QuoteThe Reformed Order of the Spellguard has been seen making expeditions through Dunwarren, performing tests of Machinery. The arrival of Final Sanctuary drawing ever closer, according to Engineers and Agents close to the developments. Auxiliary, meanwhile, are said to be lining up to join the Sanctuary Watchers- as the words of the Sheriff and the Commander, the success of the 'Experimental Branch', and the wave of patriotism since the fall of the Society Crystal thrust new conditions upon the Watchhouse.

QuoteAnimatrons sent to aid the mining works at the Mound of Magnatz the Red have been torn to pieces. The scrambled metal has been used to reinforce new bloody walls of the Giant's lair...

QuoteThe Chosen are growing bolder.. their skulking forms darken the corridors of the Machine and the sewer pipes below Lower Sanctuary. Disappearances in the Sanctuary Below are on the rise. Gnawed bones, and bloody drag-marks herald the return of darks remembered only by the Lowersmen of old. The Watchers and Warders, having withdrawn their broad extermination campaign during the Crystal War, show few signs of reinstating it...

QuoteA number of Rebel Watchers are seen leaving Upper Sanctuary and joining the Brotherhood of the Ascension in Lower Sanctuary... unable to serve any longer with the Spellguard and their lackeys.

QuoteThe Cults of Lower Sanctuary, meanwhile, linger under the uneasy and bloated dominance of the Ibrandulin. Little stirs in dark streets, but like a pile of rocks growing too tall, the many sects of the Dwellers cannot stand for much longer. Whatever dark powers battle invisibly in the bottom of that dreary cave, it is sure that one must rise to rule. Be it an earnest Ibrandulin, a Sharran puppet, or some still darker power...

Nothing has been so tumultuous and transformative for Sanctuary in recent times as the merging of the Sanctuary Watchers and the Reformed Order of the Spellguard. But the passing darks have changed Sanctuary, some parts slowly and others swiftly... like the creaks and groans, and then the sudden breaking of a dam.

Very early todark, Spellguard Agents and Engineers were seen wandering here and there, configuring machinery and coordinating with working parties. Then with strange trepidation, they returned to Serena Tower.

While the Warders beavered away, the rest of the city of Sanctuary rose to an inauspicious dark. But it was not an ordinary one. Soon came the words...

Quote::[ Spellguard Broadcast : People of Sanctuary. I bring you great news. The greatest news. The Final Sanctuary is come. But to create this paradise, of which you have but glimpsed the palest shape, there is a grave and courageous thing that we must do. ]::

::[ Spellguard Broadcast : Todark we cast away our fear. We dare to be noticed. The Shield, and the Illusion, which have so protected us- so comforted us- are no more. Now... all of our devotion flows to Final Sanctuary. Todark we blaze with pride, with the dawning of a new world. ]::

::[ Spellguard Broadcast : Please stand by for messages from your Directorate. ]::

 ::[ City Sending by Director Finn Mouldercrest : It`s just what G-Gould would have wanted. Heh. Sanctuary is growing up n-n-now. We`re going to b-be getting m-more friends, and lots of... new stuff coming in. ]::

::[ City Sending by Director Austanias Glademore : I did say. And now you will all see. An age of beauty and divinity, it is upon us. I hope that I will see you in the next world, dearest friends and peoples of Sanctuary! ]::

::[ City Sending by Director "Ma" Murik : Dears, this is all very well and good. But what about the people of Starag`s Rest? Are they going to have a part in this Final Sanctuary as well? Will you be seeing beggars and orphans in Final Sanctuary, Austanias? I hope so. I hope so...  ]::

::[ City Sending by Sheriff Marshall Greer : All of you will remain SAFE. The Watchers and Warders have established CHECKPOINTS at every entrance to Sanctuary. The Spellguard have deployed trained apprentices, and are recruiting more, to bolster our magical defenses MANUALLY and perform thrall testing. ]::

Shortly following the words, the pylons maintaining the Illusion all powered down in sequence. And the Sanctuary Shield, too, fell.

Only moments afterward, the pylons powered back on. But it is strange... something is different. Where Serena Tower once stood, looming over Sanctuary, there is- Nothing?

::[Marpenoth 18th : Year 163 : 1385 DR]::

It began with a chill wind flowing off the Dark Lake.  Soon reports came flooding into Sanctuary that a vast fleet had taken to the waters, sailing forth from the Dread Empire occupied harbour of Traensyr.  Panicked and fearful sailors report at least thirty large warships, along with dozens of smaller skiffs, rafts and longboats in the armada.  From the shore onlookers watched helplessly as the huge naval force destroyed or captured any vessels foolish enough to be caught, the survivors of these wrecks dragged aboard barges for horrors unknown...

It is said that the larger ships of the fleet proceeded immediately in the direction of the Duergar City of Mutulakt where they formed a ring, blockading the city from the trade lanes of the Dark Lake and immediately began a pounding bombardment of the immense city walls.  Yet a potion of the armada was witnessed to have broken away from the blockade and made a rapid descent on the central island of Lobliibloop, barges spewing out scores of enthralled Drow soldiers and hordes of hideous aberrants.  Sailors who have since fled the island talk of the fury and speed of the Dread forces' advance, which quickly captured all but one corner of the island and began placing strange beacons upon the cliffs.  The purpose of these beacons rapidly became terribly apparent as hideous fleshy, pulsating masses out in the water began to drift towards the captured pirate and trading vessels sitting at anchor on the island.  Though many brave defenders of Sanctuary and a contingent of Lowersmen hastened to the island's defense, they were evidently unable to prevent all of these "living bombs" out on the lake from striking their intended targets on the piers, and explosions were heard far from the island.  

Though it seems from early reports that the islands natives, ably assisted by the adventurers of Sanctuary were able to repulse and defeat this landing, this hub of Dark Lake trade has suffered serious damage, and with the destruction of numerous ships on the Lake, the sea lanes of the Underdark are now firmly under the control of Ysinode.  Even more worringly, it is rumoured that the Mindflayers deployed some kind of implanted horror from the depths of the Lake in their attempts to break the defenses of Lobliibloop, many wonder what other terrible works of these alien minds may yet lay in wait...

::[ Marpenoth 21st : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

The Revelation of Sanctuary, as it has come to be known, has caused no shortage of visitors to hobble to the exposed checkpoints of Upper Sanctuary. From grovelling goblins and kobolds, to sly Duergar, to swaddled dark elves, to wandering beasts and animatrons, to some of the desperate peoples of Lower Sanctuary - running from some trouble below. The rumours tell of the surprising leniency of the gate guards. Those who ask entrance into Sanctuary are almost always permitted, so long as they pass the Test. Voices are rising for and against the "monsters" of the depths. Some have been indulged with food and water and sent on their way, or are given the healer's touch. Word is spreading fast throughout the Underdark about Sanctuary, a great and rich and righteous city which has finally dared to show its face. Unfamiliar folk are beginning to dribble in from far off places, and conversations are rippling through Sanctuary about the "dark races" or "the freeholds of the deep".

For their part, the Directorate meet the new darks with mixed feelings. It is believed that Director Mouldercrest is in heated exchanges with the "council of fat men" administering Gould's estate who have gone to great lengths to lock Finn out of all decisions. Numerous rumours of falsely advertised meetings and pranks played on Mouldercrest have filtered down, to the chagrin of the Director. However, on one thing the Director and the faceless council agree furiously (if at arm's length): and that is that Sanctuary must reach out and open itself to the freeholds. The Red Guild have ramped up their rhetoric, and in equal measure Director Murik has rallied the Blacks. Director Austanias Glademore is heard to speak his piece on permitting entrance to any creature virtuous enough to take up the worship of the gods. The Sheriff and Director Markem both keep a steely silence, though the most popular speculation among the scholars of the House of Knowledge is that these practical men must know that the coming of monsters to Sanctuary is inevitable if the Dread are ever to be fought effectively.

Rising as well are questions about Final Sanctuary, the promised paradise. There is talk that Serena Tower will soon initiate the next steps of its plans to migrate the population of Sanctuary to Final Sanctuary. Many openly wonder at who will be allowed inside. Angry and bitter words are heard throughout Upper, though others are optimistic that they will one day make it to the new world.

Even with the growing political battles, Sanctuary rests in an odd, stagnant peace. Many of the Watchers have been freed from beats and guard duties by the deployment of Emergency Panels. They have begun to spread to duties further afield, to protect Sanctuary's trade routes and holdings. Almost every dark now, patrols move out from the Barbican to tame the darkness.

Meanwhile, in Lower Sanctuary, tales tell of infighting among the Ibrandulin. The Feaster sect is no more, and the rumours say it was at the hands of two slayers from among the Darkmen. The Darkmen themselves are philosophical or fatalistic on the subject, barely bothering to utter denials.

::[ Marpenoth 23rd : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Many skirmishes were held between the Watchers and Warders, as well as adventurers, against what can be seen at times, a united front of the cults of Lower Sanctuary. While the Watchers and Warders remain quiet about it, the rumors from Lower Sanctuary claim that in most of the battles, the people of Lower have emerged victorious. Citizens and adventurers are starting to speak fearfully about an increase of the goblin bandits in the Inbetween, as well as incidents of Watchers and Warders flee the scenes of battles, leaving others to fight for their lives.

With hushed whispers about the siege of Mutulakt, and the assault on Lobliibloop, can this new coalition of the Reformed Order and the Watchers really defend Sanctuary now that the Shield is gone?

::[ Second of Uktar : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::


Amidst the blackness of the Underdark, the Dark Lake contrary to its name is shimmers with light from the fires and strange alien glows that burn brightly around the besieged city of Mutulakt. The seemingly impenetrable ring of drow warships of the Traensyr Fleet that surrounds the harbour of the Duergar fortress continues to deny any attempts at relief for those trapped within. Only the brave and foolhardy dare venture out onto the once placid waters of the vast inland sea, such is the looming threat of Ysinode's patrol squadrons capturing unfortunate sailors. In the ports of various cities, sailors scowl into their cups, unable to take their vessels out from their berths.

A constant stream of arrows, catapult rounds and barrels of fire-oil mark the defenders continued bitter resistance to the Illithid forces on the Lake, yet the question on all lips remains: "How long can Mutulakt hold on?"....

::[ Uktar 26th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::


A grisly and macabre display heralded the tolling of the morning bells in Lower this dark.  Members of the Brotherhood of Ascension, their gilded cloaks stained crimson with blood, were seen dragging one of their former flock out into the streets before the Cathedral.  Denouncing the man as a traitor and a tyrant, they raised him upon a great pyre and burned him alive.  His screams echoed through the nearby alleys, a dire warning and a deadly promise to those who would stand in the way of these self-proclaimed freedom fighters.

The sullen and pale Dwellers in Darkness are said to be greatly troubled by these events, and one eyeless beggar was heard to curse the Ascension for murderers and madmen, promising that such crimes would not go unpunished.  Men of the infamous and bloodthirsty Black King's Bastards are seen to mutter darkly among themselves, sharing cruel japes and sharpening their blades on the steps of their fortress, and congregations of the notoriously aloof Darkmen are spotted, droning strange prayers in the dark corners of the slum.


   

::[ Nightal 6th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::


Mutulakt Burns.

The industrious Duergar fortress-city has languished under a protracted Dread Siege for weeks now, and this morning marked a new stage of the Dread Empire's terrible strike against Sanctuary's sometimes rival. Bizarre and blinding coronas of an indecipherable color burn beneath the docks of Mutulakt, and queer shrill warhorns echo across the shining waters of the Dark Lake, reverberating each hour through Dunwarren's canals.

Rumors spread among the people of the Upper and Lower cities that emaciated and listless Duergar have been seen wandering the shores of the lake, crying out in vain for aid - the lucky few to have escaped before the city was isolated from the rest of the Dark. In the shadowed corners of Sanctuary's watering holes, members of the Watchers and Warders can be overheard whispering of an effort to aid the besieged city, a strike they've come to derisively call the "Fool's Errand."

The Deep Forges burn with crimson fire, and hazy, shimmering reflections of titanic war machines can now and again be glimpsed in the space where Serena Tower once stood.

Nightal 7th : Year 163

All around Sanctuary, Watchers and Warders can be seem whispering amongst themselves, some louder than others. Some citizens have already managed to hear the topic, and now the rumours spread like fire. "Mutulakt can`t hold on any longer". Most of the citizens don`t care, as Sanctuary is still in no immediate danger. Many however, remind of Sanctuary`s children who are still present in Mutulakt. Engineers are seen running back and forth between the Deep Forge and the Watchhouse. Aside from a few guards, Warders retreat back to the Forge and Watchers to the Watchhouse. All, no doubt to prepare for their orders, and to what seems like a battle soon to come.

In Sanctuary: Proclamations of an assault in order to aid the city of Mutulakt can be heard from the House of Governance. Watchers and Warders are seen prompting adventurers and other citizens to join the assault, with promises of gold, medals and honor.

In Lower: Most of the Lowermen ignore this matter. However, a select few whisper of bettering themselves and joining the storied mercenary companies around the Dark Lake. And a bold, brave number allegedly wish to join and plunder whatever they can from what they believe to be now a doomed city. Some, however, are still not too eager to board the boats of the Spellguard. Fortunately, fliers reeking of brimstone and sulphur advertise an alternative vessel for the brave of heart...

In the Canal: Animatrons can be spotted carrying heavy equipment onto Sanctuary's boats, and these loaded war barges ferry lumbering animatronic weaponry to and from the isle of the Kuo-Toa

While not everyone is happy with this assault, the powers-that-be insist that If Mutulakt falls to the Dread, they will be poised to bring their victorious fleets to Sanctuary.  The Blacks, an ever-dwindling minority under Murik, decry the efforts as a fool's grasp at glory undeserved, while the ever-burgeoning Reds, spurred on by Director-Marshall Greer and Director Mouldercrest (or, at the very least, the Fat Men who now control the late Gould's estate) board the waiting warships en masse.  

It's said even a luxurious pleasure ship has been dredged into the Canals from Final Sanctuary, where the well-to-do intend to observe the coming battle, as if it were an evening's entertainment...

//Event planned to this time (//%22http://www.timeanddate.com/countdown/generic?iso=20160514T20&p0=136&msg=Mutulakt+Event&font=serif%22)

::[ Nightal 10th : Year 163 : 1385 DR]::

In the hours following the Battle of Mutulakt the burning hulks of dozens of ships continues to illuminate the stygian waters of the Dark Lake. The fortified city itself glowed with it's own grim lights, as vast pyres fuelled by the furnaces of the Duergar burned away industriously, reducing the slick mounds of dead bodies to charred bones and ash. After months of anxiety about the imposing Dread Fleet, the victory of Sanctuary's coalition forces has buoyed the hopes and spirits of all those opposed to the preponderance of Ysinode. Returning aristocrats and observers speak in elaborate, even poetic terms of the titanic clash, painting a picture of the courage and skill of the crews involved. The descriptions offered by those sailors, soldiers and adventurers involved in the struggle are distinctly more prosaic, bespeaking the heavy toll paid in blood for the victory over the Dread Empire's troops. Sanctuary's fleet returned to it's moorings considerably worse for wear, but afloat at least, many other allied ships were not so fortunate.

Despite the losses, it cannot be denied that the Battle of Mutulakt was a stunning victory for Sanctuary and her cohorts, demonstrating the growing martial might of the new Final Sanctuary and its rulers. Official and spontaneous celebrations have broken out across the city, with many on the Red side of the political spectrum hailing it as a triumph for not only the Spellguard, but as vindication of their program of military expansion and aggressive action. In the Canal Ward, labourers and artisans are seen rapidly erecting a huge stone monolith as a testament and memorial to the sacrifices made by the brave warriors of freedom.

Nightal 19th : Year 163

While many have thought a new age has come with Final Sanctuary, this was just not meant to be, as shortly after the Battle of Mutulakt, a chain of scandals has hit Sanctuary's Officials.

First, the one who led the initial attack on Mutulakt, Agent Vyrgil Vendelstalh, has insulted those who arrived to pay respect to those who fell in the battle, during the Memorial to the fallen. Some cannot even describe the words he used. Those who've seen him during the ceremony swear that he acted like nothing more than a drunk.

The other, more serious matter is now linked to Prefect Geldgier Schicksal, who is currently believed to have slaughtered an ambassador from Mutulakt. The Prefect was led to the Watch Barracks where a trial was about to begin, until it was suspended for further investigation.

Both the Red and the Black guilds remain unusually quiet, trying not to comment on either of these events, or show their support. Many fear for the future of what seems now to be a very short lived Sanctuary-Mutulakt alliance. However few of the radical red guilders believe Sanctuary should take opportunity with this recent chaos, betray Mutulakt, and conquer the city while they are still weakened from the siege...

::[ Nightal 30th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

An altercation ensued in Starag's Rest this evening, involving viscous goo, grubs, and senility. Diligent members of the Watchers and Warders were seen scurrying to and from the Public Housing Vaults in various states of urgency. Shortly thereafter, a commotion at the Barbican drew curious citizens attentions to a lone wanderer at Sanctuary's great gate...

Director Idraen Markem, his armor rusted and rent and his helm dented and warped in a hundred places is said to have returned to the city after being presumed dead, a casualty of the titanic clash between Sanctuary's forces and those of the Dread Empire at Mutulakt. The Director made no official announcement, and quietly withdrew to the Vaults to confer - it is rumored - with Malark Amblecrown and the few surviving Ordinants of the Society. Though Markem submitted to the testing of the Reformed Order, dark murmurings in the Grotto and the Vaults insist that this auspicious return smacks of something other than happenstance, and some mark it the work of the Dread.

::[ Nightal 30th : Year 163 : 1385 DR ]::

Rumours quickly spread throughout the Upper Sanctuary saying that Prefect Ner`as Amarillis has been murdered in his own office at the Headquarters of Windwraith Trading. It is said he met his end cold-bloodedly in the hands of his own underlings, namely one called Aidan Galloway and another accomplice. The Watcher guarding the entrannce sounded an alarm after a loud yet short battle began but it was too late to save the Prefect's life. The culprits remained calmly at the scene of their crime, until Watcher reinforcements arrived and they were escorted to the Watchhouse.

Further investigations into the matter were conducted within the confines of the Watchouse, although it is said that a quite large cadre of Watchers and some concerned citizens were present. A bit later Agent Vyrgil Vendelstalh arrived to the Watchhouse and took the situation under his control. Meanwhile the body of Ner'as was seen being transferred to the Deep Forges. Later, a number of Watchers and Warders went to the Deep Forges likewise. Sending made by the Spellguard followed after some time, claiming that Prefect Ner'as had been influenced by aberrant forces, praising the killers as heroes and good citizens of Sanctuary for their deed. However, it is also being said that the investigations into this matter continue.

Many from the poorer standards of life mourn the death of Prefect Amarillis, who had been making sure that some of the profits accumulated by the House of Trade was being transferred to alleviate the needs of the poor. There are also some who simply "can't believe Prefect Amarillis had anything to too with the Dread Empire, he wasn't the sort". Although none seems to be openly celebrating this brutal event inside the House of Trade either, and some even whisper if the safety of their own wares and life can still be quaranteed inside the common market, there are a quite sizeable amount of those merchants who speak gladly about the passing of the Prefect. The siphoning of profits to the poor was certainly not to the liking of all fair tradesmen...

The City of Sanctuary though soon settles down, because Prefects seem to have a habit of dying an early death and there is always a new reckless one chasing the mantle. Time will tell who replaces the position left open by this sudden and tragic event.

::[ Hammer 4th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

The streets of Sanctuary run crimson this eve!

The trial of one Aidan Galloway, murderer of Prefect Amarillis, ended messily this dark when a crowd of Black Guild ruffians led by a band of armed thugs calling themselves "Ma's Boys" clashed with the Watchers and Warders. The rioters set fire to a Mouldercrest's stall, blaming the rise of the Red Guild for their recent hardships and the poverty of the Public Housing Vault and demanding the rights to hang Galloway themselves for murdering Ma Murik's chosen prefect. As the 'Murdercrests' smoldered, Watchers led by a burly dwarven soldier of the Defensive Branch descended upon the crowd with bludgeon and blade to disperse the rowdy commonfolk, leading to a confused and bloody melee. In the aftermath, Galloway's execution was botched by an inexperienced headsman, and the mangled body was set ablaze by a passing rioter who had not yet fled.

Rumors of a further incident, involving Watchers and Warders bearing steel and spell against one another in the streets over some quarrel or another, persist... Though authorities are quick to deny such allegations, Watchers and Warders share icy glares across the Freedom Square, and Inspector Marigiri and Sergeant Bolton can be seen leading trains of Watchers with bared steel to and from the House of Governance in the twilight hour. Agent Vyrgil Vendelstalh, meanwhile, has not been seen since the onset of the riots...

::[ Hammer 20th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

In a series of bizarre events, concluding with the trial of Gorathak Yrehp, leader of the fearsome mercenary company The Shattered Shore, the Orog Warlord has found his demise. By the accounts of citizens present for the trial, an adventurer assassinated him with a cast of spell from a scroll, hidden in her papers while reading her testimony.

Many Watchers and Warders are seen raising a glass for what may be seen as a happy occasion, to be ridden of The Shattered Shore's leader, as they won't have to deal with the monster anymore, or be intimidated by him. Some of the citizens however, understand that now, this group without a leader, may become even wilder and direct their anger and hostility on Sanctuary. They start to question if working with monsters truly worth it, and popular support starts to lean in the favor of the Black Guild.

 ::[ Hammer 23rd : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Rumor quickly spreads of a breach in containment.  Following a Spellguard sending for citizens to remain calm, a squadron of elite personnel in Watcher and Warder colors stormed through the Housing Vaults.  Within half an hour, all that was left of the aberrant threat detected by Sanctuary's Epsilon Squadron was a smoking pile of ash.  The residents of the Housing Vaults are more fearful than ever, and it's unclear whether the threat of thralls or the threat of being wrongfully incinerated is worse.

In other news, some witnesses say that Brett Janowski was murdered by Brett Janowski and several others in Freedom Square.  Others say it was some kind of tentacle-mimic freak.  The amount of incendiaries Scrap-Hero Edward Velosia employed during and after the incident left little evidence to confirm either way.

::[ Hammer 23rd : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Following the events in the Housing Vaults, a thick blanket of mist settled in over Sanctuary and the surrounding regions of the Underdark. While this was no more than a cause for confusion to most, some of Sanctuary's learned scholars and those residents whom could still remember a life on Ymph spoke with dread of the "Accursed Hammer 23rd" as a date of significance before the world's fall.

After swirling and cloying about the caverns for a time the mists seemed to congregate within the Crossroads, with travellers and adventurers bringing back reports of a path opened through the haze by the solitary harbinger Baltaire Magnolian, whom declared himself to be the last disciple of "Rabbanatha the Pure".

Through the veil it is said that impossible visions of a times past were seen, and by some even experienced in full.

::[ Hammer 25th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

A series of numerous minor events of strangely varying degrees pester Sanctuary this dark. Stories range from a man killed by a drow, prefects being reprimanded for crimes such as "washing a monster" and "revenge for vandalism", and a small structure being set to flame.

Regardless of each new batch of problems that arise, many citizens are consistently praising on-duty Watchers and Warders for their diligence and quick response time.

::[ Hammer 28th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Word is spreading around about the troubles of the Public Housing Vault. Some say that aberrations and sicknesses have surfaced there. While others note that many of the monsters, troublemakers, and outcasts brought into Sanctuary since the Spellguard's departure have been "encouraged" into the Vaults by the Watchers and Warders. It has been whispered that the gates built in Starag's Rest some darks past are nothing less than a containment, a quarantine, that the Directorate and the Watchers and Warders have not revealed to the people.

The place has turned into a dumping ground for the problems of Upper Sanctuary, and some voices cry out for the monsters who loiter in Upper Sanctuary to be turfed into the vault "where they belong". The Black Guild is in disarray over the new trends, abhorring the monstrous influx and yet powerless to stop the force of Upper Sanctuary's disgust and the quiet consent - some say - of the Order of the Spellguard. And so the Public Housing Vault, where many of the most loyal supporters of Ma Murik dwell, is changing before their eyes.

Amidst the rumours, the strongest tale is that the Society of the Ordered Mind, led by Director Idraen Markem, are hard at work solving the crisis in the Vaults. Those who question or contradict this mantra - daring to point out that Malark Amblecrown and the Ordinants in his company may indeed be the source of the problem - are not heard from again. The Watchers and Warders have heightened their presence in taverns and at public gatherings, and a conspiracy of silence has solidified around the gates of Starag's Rest. Few dare to say what is really going on inside. Meanwhile, the affluent people of Upper Sanctuary are glad to signal their support again to the Crusade of the good old Society and its charismatic Commander Markem.

::[ Hammer 29th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Horror and chaos strike the settlement once more as rumors of dealings with a giant beholder reach Upper Sanctuary. Amidst the dealings, injured Watchers commend the fact that many brave souls attempted to slay the foul creature, yet were laid low by overwhelming force. Others hail the wisdom of a prefect and other crafty men with their ability to placate the monstrosity in negotiations.

Rumors spread that the shipments that arrived were a large number of crates ranging from foodstuffs, beetles, metal scraps, bombs, and whatever else the layman might imagine. A commotion erupted from the Watchhouse regarding the behavior of many in these dealings, with many ranking officials of the Watchers and government seen storming in and out, sometimes with tales of violent confrontations.

In twine with the happenings in the Public Housing Vault, it seems that strange lifeforms and chaotic circumstances are becoming all the more commonplace.

::[ Hammer 30th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

It began, as it so often does, with a trial... Prefect Reman Havelstein of the Red Political Guild was ushered quietly into the courtroom this evening to face charges of nebulous nature but clear origin. Presided over by a tribunal of Black Guilders including Prefect Yseult Vatein, Prefect Brent Kendall, and Inspector Marianne Marigiri, the trial was swift, merciless, and its overseers unanimous in their judgement. For the crimes of murder and treason, Havelstein was put to death.

This spark would grow into a roaring inferno as not long after members of the Red Guild (rumored to have been on the payroll of the "Fat Men") made a vicious attempt on Vatein's life in the very heart of Freedom Square. Chaos reigned for a fearful hour, and after several deaths and a bout of fisticuffs between Brent Kendall and Hyram Sinclair the situation was diffused.

An uneasy tension falls over Sanctuary, as members of both Guilds cry out for vengeance and for blood.

::[ Alturiak 7th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Following hot on the heels of the late political upheaval is the intensification of problems in the Public Housing Vault. Almost overnight, the majority of the Vault has been filled with bizarre flora and fauna - and a mysterious and terrible plague has broken out, afflicting many of the poor and unfortunate souls living there.

Sanctuary's authorities have largely been silent regarding this new development... save for Director Idraen Markem, who has proclaimed that he and his True Society under Malark Amblecrown will do all that they can to manage the symptoms of the plague many have begun calling the "Twisting Malaise".

Rumors fly...

::[ Alturiak 9th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

When the dark of Alturiak 9th arrived, Prefect Brent Kendall and his cohorts made way to the Public Housing Vaults to liberate the people of the Vault, under heavy supervision by the Watchers and Warders.

Whatever went on there has been buried under a rockfall of confused stories and plastered over by comforting messages from the Watchers and Warders and the Directorate. Word spreads of confrontations, necromancy, and bloodshed... but Director Markem has given Upper Sanctuary assurances that he and the Society are doing their best to keep things under control.

What is surely true is that Prefect Kendall is no longer the Prefect of the Vault, and has led a following from the Vaults to settle in the Crossroad Caves. Though hundreds and thousands remain, defending their homes, enduring. They now look to Ma Murik and their new Prefect - Morgan Dubois - for guidance in troubled times.

18th of Alturiak, 1386 DR

Word from the Barbican speaks of a small party of gnolls having appeared before the gates. Not risking a potential raid the Watchers and Warders of Sanctuary closed and dug in while waiting to see their intention. A group led by prefect Brent Kendall set out to investigate and quickly came to blow with the visitors.

Scouts now report of increased sightings of gnolls in the surrounding caverns, especially near Bresley's Bulwark.

::[ Alturiak 26th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

For a few darks the citizens of Sanctuary have been waiting impatiently to the rumored trial of Markem's Prefect, in charge of the Housing Vaults, Morgan Dubois. Although many were more worried of what will happen after the trial, how the Red guild, or Markem's "True Society" might react, as the memories of the last time a Prefect stood for trial, riots between the guilds and the Watchers and Warders followed shortly after.

Finally the time of the trial has come. This time however, the ones to judge the case were no others but Directors Austanais Glademore, Ma Murik, and Idraen Markem. Rumors from those who attended indicate that the ones who led the prosecution were Agents Daro Dalibor and Vyrgil Vendelstalh of the Reformed Order of the Spellguard which led people to believe the Prefect has done terrible things, to warrant no less than two Agents of the Reformed Order investing their time in such matters. However it was soon discovered that the crime of "Treason to Mankind" they tried to push was nothing but a farce, aided by confusing testimonies, long speeches and mishandled evidence, which only supported the crimes of assaults by other citizens of Sanctuary, and the questionable performance of the Prefect.

It is said that throughout the trial, Director Murik motivated the prosecution with their case, while Director Markem showed the flaws in their case multiple times. The tensions between the two were clearly felt, the result of the current state of the Housing Vaults, no doubt. At a certain point, Director Glademore gave the Agents a time limit to end their case, as it has been proven a valuable waste of time for all involved. After a failed attempt to save their case, Director Markem has made an inspiring speech to those in the room, and in the end of it, fired Morgan Dubois. Finally, Director Glademore has delivered the sentence of innocence on the former Prefect, and the trial was over.

While many believe the whole incident hurt the image of Director Idraen Markem, many also praise him for taking responsibility for his former Prefect's questionable actions. The citizens also view the Directorate in a better light than before, as they arrived and judged the case justly, with no riots or violence following the sentence, unlike when the Prefects and Officers are in charge. Many also question the odd behavior of the Agents during the trial, however aside from careful whispers, they know better than to raise their voices out loud...

::[ Alturiak 27th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

The last weeks and months have seen turbulent changes to the Sanctuary of Upper Dunwarren. The restructuring of Sanctuary into the sprawling metropolis of Upper, inhabited by all manner of folk and monsters and the gleaming hub of the elite, Final Sanctuary, has seen a rise in tensions as the gap between the "haves" and "have-nots" of society has exponentially increased. The disappearance of the once imposing and monolithic Serena Tower into the reaches of Final Sanctuary has left a strangely devoid spot in the skyline of Sanctuary for those who have dwelt in the city for decades. Few dare complained openly as yet in the teeming streets of Upper, with the enforcers of the resurgent and ever vigilant Reformed Order at every gate and on every street corner.

In the Public Housing Vaults the "Twisting Malaise" that has afflicted a growing minority of residents is a topic of fevered conversation. Although the vast majority of citizens in the vaults remain unaffected, some fear the spread could intensify. For many poor and disaffected communities however, leaving their homes, scant work and support networks in favour of fresher climes is simply not a viable option, and so they stay, hope and pray for alleviation. Despite the best efforts of the Director Markem and his strange company, supposedly supported by the Directorate and officials of Sanctuary, there seems to be no end in sight for the spreading blight. Some even whisper that this sickness might not be such a bad thing, for at the very least the city can no longer ignore their plight.

In news seemingly unrelated to the major shifts going on in the city, some citizens report that the perennial issue of nightmares has grown worse of late. A spate of manifestations of terrible psychoses and sudden bouts of madness or aggression has begun to emerge, culminating in a reported triple homicide and suicide the previous dark by an unremarkable worminger. At present no one seems to have any answers, but amidst the strangeness of these times, even the nightmarish has become strangely commonplace...

29th of Alturiak, 1386 DR

News arrive at last in full of recent tragedies at Bresley's Bulwark, prefecture of Brent Kendall. A tribe of gnolls, first encountered at the gates, has in the recent tenday preyed upon the settlers and twice raided the small settlement. During these events seven people from various places in Sanctuary had emigrated to live amongst the settlers. Of them nary a soul returned.

Rumor has it that after the first raid was thwarted, the gnolls were preparing for a second strike when the prefect made his own attack upon the gnoll tribe hideout -- battling beastmen and demons alike to end the threat to his people. While the forces of the prefect was occupied the gnolls made their strike, killing and abducting some of the residents of the crossroads. Two days were spent searching for the missing members of the Bulwark until they were found, and not a gnoll remains left to tell the tale of what had taken place.

Of five people abducted, the prefect was able to bring back four. However tragedy struck as one of them had been driven mad of the torture done during captivity, twisted into what seasoned rangers call a kryshantel -- savage soul -- who turned upon the survivors.

Residents of the Public Housing Vault now seem more supportive of the work done by Markem and his men. With the Bresley's Bulwark being no escape from the Twisting Malaise they are forced to hope for salvation in their own home. In Sanctuary some loudmouths declare trying to live elsewhere in the Underdark as madness and accuse the prefect of having lured these people to their death, trusting instead upon the defenses set by the Watchers and Warders. Whatever the incentive it seems few now are eager to stake out a living in the crossroads.

Yet, amongst the surviving residents of Bresley's Bulwark, there is not a single word of fault in their leader. Guards now can be seen standing uneasily near the Bulwark's entrance, steadying themselves for what perils may come next. The settlers make do in their diminished numbers, trying their best in a place away from sickness and governmental turmoil.

::[ Ches 5th, 1386 DR ]::

A cold unease has begun to seep into Lower Sanctuary. Whispers of bodies and corpses being found amongst the alleyways and ruins of and surrounding Lower Sanctuary seem to grow more frequent by the dark. While many of the chaotic and lawless settlement wouldn't think finding a shivved corpse to be entirely unexpected, tales of corpses being found in states of ritualistic desecration--drained of blood, carved with queer symbols, cruelly disemboweled, limbs amputated in stages--bring pause to the normally apathetic and indifferent.

Cults and madmen are not uncommon in Lower Sanctuary, but many now travel through the littered streets in pairs or groups when possible. Even those expecting the strange deaths to fade in frequency like many other tragedies that have befallen Lower Sanctuary can be heard uttering prayers to the Gods that they don't end up the victims of someone or something sinister.

::[Ches 5th, 1386 DR}::

As the dust settles two days after the end of the brief campaign of terror bombing launched by the so called"King of Bones", Upper Sanctuary is astir with nerves and fear. Many citizens wonder how this savage and his accomplices could have circumvented the vast security apparatus of the Watchers and Warders, conducting a pair of devastating explosive attacks in the heart of the Public Vaults and Upper proper. The first explosion to rock the city is said to have occured in one of the many abandoned buildings in the Vaults, but the fire quickly began to spread and might have done considerably more damage if not for the prompt efforts of many citizens and officials who raced to extinguish the incendiaries.

However, it quickly became apparent that the first blast was merely a distraction for another crime committed in the House of Knowledge. It is said the Bone-King and his accomplices including an Ascensionist used the departure of so many Watchers and Warders to effect a daring robbery. Although official sources remain tight lipped on what precisely was stolen, rumors suggest it was one or more relics from the higher floors. Although some library staff and lingering Watchers are reputed to have put up resistance, the robbers escaped with their prize.

As the chaos began to abate, a series of sendings were issued from Lower, demanding that unless Watcher Irina Dolokhova was slain by the hands of Sanctuary's citizenry and piked at the Barbican then the necromancer would detonate another bomb every fifteen minutes until his demands were met. Following a very public battle of words through the sending systems, as promised, fifteen minutes later a second blast ripped through Upper. It is said that many Watchers and adventurers had already left the city seeking vengeance on the home of the Bone-King and thus the city was vulnerable to infiltration. When it became apparent the bombers had targeted the Simms Memorial Orphanage, the people of the city were horror stricken at the callous attempt to kill orphaned children. Although the official line is that none were harmed in the explosion, it is commonly held that this is not entirely true.

One thing is evident in the wake of these tragedies, yet another threat has come knocking at Sanctuary's gates, what remains to be seen is how her defenders will react...

::[ Ches 7th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

The natural world is left shaken in the wake of a supposed dark ritual performed by the infamous Bone King and his cabal of followers, said to have been a harrowing that took place deep within the energetic field of life known to it's keepers as The Ley. The Circle of Stewards were said to have attempted valiantly to repel these wretched advances, yet in these grim days their numbers are few and the Circle's name is hardly ever mentioned, it is clear that now the Druid's are not so dormant..

Several are said to have died during this blasphemous rite, although names are scarce and rumours leave out key details, it is certain this is not the last foul act upon the Bone King's dark list.

::[ Ches 10th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Recently, across Sanctuary, both in Upper Sanctuary and the Public Housing Vaults, Scriveners are seen more frequently, for the reason of a few incidents of people collapsing on the street, and instantly die. Besides the oddity in the deaths, they appear to be unrelated, as the casualties were of different races, and different occupations. Most residents of Sanctuary are not overly concerned, however a few already shut themselves at their homes.

In what appears to be a complete unrelated event, a Worminger was seen shouting near the gates, then jumped off the cliff, all to the uncaring eyes of an Agent of the Reformed Order, and the Watchers and Warders....

::[ Ches 15th : 1386 DR ]::

Tragedy struck this dark as screams rung out from the Niceview Flats of the residential corner of Upper Sanctuary. Those responding found dark clad cultists with undead at their call cutting down innocent and cowering civilians. After a long and desperate battle, the last of the undead and cultists were slain but the surviving residents of the flats spoke of a sinister portal that some abducted residents were taken through. A group of random adventurers jumped through the portal in pursuit, causing its closure. It was some hours later on that these adventurers seemingly returned, announcing their victory via sending.

Rumours quickly spread of the adventurer's miracle-like victory as all of the abducted residents were rescued. At the same time, however, many whisper fearfully, wondering who these cultists could be and what their motives are. Some wonder if the cultists spreading fear in Lower have made their way above while others simply hope they have nothing else in mind for the citizens of Sanctuary.

::[ Ches 18th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Grisly murder shattered all hopes for a peaceful dark. The maddened Apprentice of the King of Bones struck at the 'Bulwark' this evening, seeking vengeance for his foul master. Utilizing the blackest and most heathen arts at his disposal, he stole away a valiant knight by the name of Kemsith. Determined to tear her husband-to-be from the clutches of the Apprentice, the Prefect of the House of Gods, Araneidae, was seen to muster a force to enact his rescue and march off into the wider Underdark...

Some hours later, this same party returned, bereaved and bedraggled, carrying the fiendish necromancer's head...

...And the limp, entangled carcasses of Araneidae and her beloved.

The Mausoleum's dolorous bells ring in the evening...

::[ Ches 20th : 1386 DR ]::

This dark cultists yet again strike the Residential Flats of Upper Sanctuary. Word is a woman of the Bright Sea Flats was kidnapped and whisked away through a portal by a small group of cultists. Six adventurers entered the same portal to give chase and enact a rescue, but when they returned things took a startling turn to the dark and dramatic. A commotion quickly broke out in the Flat, witnessed by many residents, where the kidnapped woman's fiance accused the adventurers of murdering the woman so they could return laden with treasure instead of rescuing her.

After a minor physical scuffle, the fiance hastily made a sending calling for a Watcher. However, as the man was in the middle of speaking with a Watcher in the House of Governance, he was suddenly killed by a bolt of lighting flung by a mage who was quickly taken into custody. Milling commoners and civil servants within the House of Governance are quick to share aghast and scandalized words about adventurers willing to hire killers to seemingly protect their reputations.

After a string of cultists attacks, fear and anxiety in the Residential Flats is at an all time high. With this latest incident, however, the residents have become fearful of not just cultists, but also would-be adventurers who appear to be willing to kill defenseless common residents instead of protecting them.

::[ Ches 21st : 1386 DR ]::

Sanctuary Endures.

These words resound throughout the city, carried on chapped and bloodied lips, bellowed from sore-raked throats, and belched into the ceilings of the Grotto and the Baby both. The dark has been one of pain, fury, steel and sorcery, as Sanctuary and her beleaguered defenders fought tooth, nail, tendril and piston for their lives against the greatest assault yet mustered against them by the forces of the Dread Empire. Overseer Rhiannon Kingsley, flanked by twisted mockeries of her once loyal Ordinants, brought countless multitudes against the great Barbican Gate of Dunwarren, demanding their capitulation and surrender. Thanks to the valiant efforts of Sanctuary's defenders under Greer and Dhimani, timely aid from Magnatz the Red, and a final valiant push by Ser Malark Amblecrown, the people of Dunwarren will live for another dark.

Of the combatants, a few names are murmured more oft than their peers, and rumors fly high and low of their distinguished deeds:

Fallen Prefect Brent Kendall - The Hammer of the Bulwark, who stood against Rhiannon Kingsley and her elite cadre of Chosen, martyring himself upon the very gates of his holdfast, and so buying the defenders time to rally.

Benedekt Tarkatzous, the Knight of Flies - Who stepped over the fallen Prefect and (it is said) dueled Kingsley blade to blade amidst a field of the fallen, holding his own admirably against the scion of Sanctuary's demise.

Agent Elizabeth Thynne, the Sword of Serena - Who, despite being elevated to her rank but an hour hence, led sortie after sortie into the Dread's ranks, her greatsword blazing with crimson fires - poets and artists attest that she was the very vision of Melinda herself.

And a score of other heroes, their deeds unwitnessed amidst a swirling torrent of gore...

Though good feelings and cheer are shared in abundance, there are whispers at the edge of this revelry... asking troubling questions, and casting dark clouds over the thoughts of those who hear them... What did the Dread want? How soon - for surely they shall - will they return?

And what fell powers will they bring to bear, now that Sanctuary has shown itself a tenacious and worthy foe...

Many recall the conquest of their surface homes, and shudder...

​What will come next?

::[ Ches 24th : 1386 DR ]::

The sound of battle rung out from the Residential Flats this dark and when a number of Watchers and adventurers came to investigate, they were surprised to find that that the residents of the Bright Sea Flats themselves had barricade their own flat in an attempt to prevent Watchers and adventurers from entering. Within, a heated argument quickly broke out with the commoners demanding the Watchers and adventures leave while those who responded to the sound of battle demanded to why it sounded as if a melee was occurring within the flat.

With the commoners distrusting the adventurers due to the events of a few darks past (//%22http://www.efupw.com/forums/forum/information/announcements/63722-efu-r-gossip-major-events-and-rumors-ic-knowledge?p=664551#post664551%22) and disillusioned with the Watchers for their apparent lack of interest in following up on the murders of their friends and neighbours, a stand still came to be. When Watchers began to violently tear down the barricade keeping them out, it is said one or some of the adventurers turned upon the Watchers, forcing the law enforcement agents out of the flat. It was this such action which impressed the residents who then changed their minds and allowed a small group of adventures within.

What happened within the flat is obscured and obfuscated by exaggeration and rumour-mongering, but it is agreed by many residents that this group of adventurers--consisting of Alia Millis, Calard Odileon, Darius Sand, Devintus Kesh, Francois Helmuth, Kaylee Leverage, and Presolt Beske--managed to not only stop a foul ritual underway by cultists who forced their way into the flat, but also managed to do so without any serious casualties to multiple hostages.

With such a great success, the adventurers were hailed as heroes and improved resident attitudes towards their type. The reputation of the Watchers amongst the residents, however, approaches a pathetic low...

::[ Ches 28th : 1386 DR ]::

This dark has been a blight upon Sanctuary.

Everything began with another skirmish between the Watchers and Markem's Men in Starag's Rest over, what people can imagine at this point, another trivial matter. During the chaos, a few innocent people, including a child, have found their deaths, but none can really pinpoint who caused it. The conflict seems to have ended with Markem's Men "win" and allowing the Watchers to head back to "Middle" Sanctuary, more or less unharmed.

While it seemed it was the end of it, it was not to be. Shortly after the battle, three explosions occurred in various places in the Public Housing Vaults all at once: Simms Square, The Roaches Encampment and a Housing Apartment, all suffered ruined properties, dozens of injured from the blasts and a few deaths. Markem's Men, lead by Rebecca Locke, and the Civil Servants, lead by Prefect Clarence Carlyle have handled the flames, while risking their lives when the flames nearly destroyed a power source, which caused heavy damage to all around. It was noticed by all that no Watchers, nor Warders, have showed up to help in the attempts to control the flames, and the Agents who have arrived did nothing but talk, about what can only be considered during such an event, a trivial matter, and left shortly after.

It appears that Markem's Men believed the Watchers to be in charge of the explosions as they quickly set out, lead by Benedekt Tarkatzous, to face the Watchers and demand answers. What they found was a blockade by the Watchers and Spellguard in Starag's Rest. Another battle soon took place when both sides couldn't find common grounds. Markem's Men have quickly gained the advantage when the savage Skuld Arondottir charged ahead, cutting at many as possible, and slaying Watcher Champion Ragnor Rathmore. When most of the Watchers and Warders were knocked on the ground, The Sword of Serena, Agent Elizabeth Thynne, has managed to even the odds, when single handily managing to cut down most of Markem's Men to the point of them gathering whatever wounded they could, and fleeing the scene back to the Public Housing Vaults, with Agent Thynne rushing after them. During all the chaos, Agent Vyrgil Vendelstalh has struggled in a mage duel against a Cunning Goblin Warlock.

The conclusion of the events is unclear to most. Markem's Men have caught Agent Thynne in her rampage, and after a failed assassination attempt on her life during captivity by an unknown woman she was escorted back to the Deep Forge. Some moments later it was announced that the Half Drow Merchant Ilindiira Harper was in charge of the explosions in the Public Housing Vaults, and she was executed for her crimes.

More and more residents of the Housing Vaults start to understand that the Watchers and Warders have abandoned them. Watchers grow bitter by their superiors ignorance to their lives, as slayers of Watchers, such as Skuld of Markem's Men are allowed to walk freely unpunished. The stench of death, fire and blood lingers across all of Sanctuary, while the sense of danger, both from inside and outside of it, is felt all around.

::[ Tarsakh 4th : 1386 DR ]::

This dark, relatively calm and uneventful, was marred by murder.

It's said that it all began when Prefect Clarence Carlyle was making his way through Upper Sanctuary towards the Watch House to deal with some rudimentary issue. Along the way, he was accosted by a pair of commoners. In reaction to the Prefect seemingly pardoning two goblin monsters who served as minions in the attack upon Upper Sanctuary by the Substance-addled Geldgier Schicksal a few darks past, the commoners accused the Prefect of being a goblin sympathizer in less than polite words and pelted him with rotten fruit.

A short but violent scuffle broke out and a second later one of the commoners lay dead on the ground while the Prefect's pike dripped with fresh blood. The surviving commoner fled, quickly spreading word of the murder before being detained and brought to the Watch House by Watchers. Upon arriving, Agent Elizabeth Thynne called out for the Prefect to be arrested which was done after the Prefect reportedly attempted to flee.

After the Prefect was brought to the Watch House in shackles, an awkward stillness seemed to come over Sanctuary. A crowd had began to mill about the slain commoner's corpse, unsure of what to do and wondering of what will happen to the Prefect. It was roughly a half hour after the whole ordeal began that the Prefect, Agent, and surviving commoner exited the Watch House. Together, they made their way to the House of Trade where from within the Prefect made a sending:

QuoteSanctuary! It appears there was but an egregious misunderstanding. The situation has been handled with all due care by our Watchers and Warders. I have been cleared of all wrongdoing after having defended myself from a vicious attack by a vaultsman brute. Please return to your business. Tah!

Moments later, the surviving commoner could be seen scurrying towards the Residential Flats with her head down, clutching an engorged coin purse to her chest.

With the aftermath of the dark's events resulting in an esteemed citizen of Final Sanctuary suffering no consequences for such a brazen murder, the mood of Middle Sanctuary grows dark and somber.
 

::[ Tarsakh 13th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

On this dark, far and distant from Sanctuary, a god was devoured. In some strange distant planar realm, the deity Shaundakul was consumed after long chase by Dendar the Night Maiden. Consumed nearly whole, a single hand of Shaundakul did dribble from the maw of the serpent and land upon a far distant strange mountain of spongy purple-blue and unfamiliar hue.

And there the hand waited.

Somehow aware of the Hand and the powers that it promised, the Cults of Lower Sanctuary learned of how passage into this distant realm could be secured and so sent forth their boldest and most devoted champions.

Although what occurred in the beyond is not known in great detail, it is known that the three respective cults faced each in terrible and murderous battle. Slime Cultists, devoted Brethren of the Brotherhood of the Ascension, and Dark Dwellers fought against each other with every fiber of their being.

With great effort, the Hand was dragged back to Sanctuary. The fighting continued... but in the end, the Slime Cultists proved victorious. Gibbering in their exalted happiness, the Cultists heaved the Hand and their own frail bodies into the vast bulk of the swollen slime Slp'slp'grlp'alshlpt.

And so, empowered by some small measure of the power of a God, the SLIME rose.

And what followed....

• ::[ DM Shout : A foul stench begins to rise from the sewers.... ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : Panicked Lowersmen begin to run for shelter... ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : And a tide begins to rise. A smooth, cresting wave of slime.....burbling masses of jelly oozing up from every crack and crevasse..... ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : Burble... burble... burble.... ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : From its earliest beginnings as a small jelly... Slp`slp`grlp`alshlpt has been fed by legions of devoted followers.... every rat, every sacrificed paladin or unfortunate follower.... ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : .... it has grown. Become engorged.... fat and swollen.... ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : Yet also has it missed its progenitor, its father... hidden in the Dark Lake far from Sanctuary. ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : Now, fed the HAND OF A GOD.... does it realize it is time to go home, at last. ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : And the slime rises. ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : And the people of Lower scream.... as the wave of slime floods through the streets.... ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : The remaining champions of the Sacred Cave of Ibrandul utter a chant... and rocks fall. Yet the slime seeps through the cracks... ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : The champions of the Brotherhood, tears streaming down their faces, battle the quivering jellies... yet, they too, are driven from their home. ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : The Slime rises, and washes over Lower. The Mourning Elves...... hold each other`s hands in a moment of quiet reflection as they are consumed.... ]::
  
• > ::[ DM Shout : The Slime Rises... seeping through the buildings of Lower.... ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : And yet... and yet - ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : As the flood rises... the great, quivering BULK of Slp`slp`grlp`alshlpt emerges from the Sewers. And it slowly inches and slides.... ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : Its smaller parts and quivering jelly children making way.... ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : It quivers and enters into the Canal, smashing up shipping and docks on its way ]::
  
• ::[ DM Shout : And Slp`slp`grlp`alshlpt sinks into the Canal, and swims into the Dark Lake beyond, seeking to rejoin that from which it came. Some darker purpose awaiting it. ]::
  

The relative peace and 'normality' of the Housing Vaults was shattered late last night, when there was rumour of a brutal murder of a group of hungry citizens in the shanty alleys. A group of investigators from the Collective attempted to uncover the perpetrators, but we're seemingly unable to, despite their best efforts.   Word is that the brtual and bloody attack was over a cache of food which is becoming ever more scarce after the influx of refugees from Sanctuary Below after the Flood.  Though there is not much else to be discovered about this worrying attack, it serves to forewarn of potentially further brutality to come...

::[ Tarsakh 15th :1386 DR ]::

As it is said, tragedies strike in threes, and this dark violence visited the Bright Sea Flats for the third time.

Word spreads that a resident of the flat, a man known as Ted Kleiner, was killed--assassinated even--by a pair of men masquerading as deliverymen. As soon as Ted opened the door to his room, the two bullrushed the door, stabbed Ted multiple times, and then fled--killing two other commoners who were unfortunately in the the path of their escape.

Unlike as has happened in the past, however, it was noted that the Watcher response was relatively orderly and measured. Though the identities of the two murderers remain unknown, some residents voice their appreciation of the thorough investigation undertaken by an unnamed surgeon, lead by a stoic Watch sergeant, and the gentle questioning by a man of Tyr who just recently enlisted with the Watchers.

::[ Tarsakh 17th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

A caravan of men and dwarves departed from the Spire, torches aloft, rothe in tow. The beasts of burden were laden with supplies and precious minerals from the Foundry of Thane Vulkan Highhearth and were bound for the Public Housing Vault of Sanctuary. Unfortunately, the Thane entered the gates with nary a rothe in sight, supported by a mob of Watchers and Warders bearing the bodies of his companions.

The tale that followed in his wake varied wildly from speaker to speaker. Those deep in their cups mutter of treachery- some dark bargain struck between those enthralled and the free-minded; a sacrifice for the safety of those that limped into the city. Others regale listeners with bloody depictions of enthralled Drow and war horrors cut to pieces, strewn across the Low Road. Dwarven laborers and miners raise their cups in salute as they speak of the Thane Highhearth dueling one of the Swords of Kingsley- to a standstill. But while the exact details of what befell the caravan's defenders may be in doubt, what is known is that not a single rothe reached their final destination. The more cynical Ravens of Sanctuary have been heard to wonder aloud if this does not herald some greater strike on Sanctuary itself by Overseer Kingsley.

This cycle. An emissary to the Dread Empire, Overlord Orgollithid of Sector IV, approached the barbican of Sanctuary and demanded a parley with officials of Sanctuary. The specifics of the talk are lost to all but those who were present but rumors that Sanctuary has 1 dark to deliver preserved 'savant' brain or be raided by the Overlord's vast thrall army situated on the coast of the dark lake.

Infighting was seen erupting around those gathered about the proper course of action.

Sanctuary`s finest delivered 5 brains preserved in vats -- the exact source of these brains is unknown to most - while those who witnessed the townhall meeting believe these were the brains of old svirfneblin engineer stored in brine fluid in tube deep within the machine. The Overlord was pleased of the offering and departed from the gates with his minions. Although Sanctuary avoided this battle, paranoia seeps into the mind of many as to what this entails for the future.

Will the Overlord return and what will his demands be at that time? Will the Overlord protect Sanctuary from the malevolent eye of other ambitious mindflayer such as the one directed ex-director Kingsley? Will the secrets of the machine be discovered by the Mindflayers now that svirfneblin high engineer brains were delivered? ...

Only time will tell.

::[ Second of Mirtul : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Denizens of the Underdark murmur of strange purple mist briefly passing over them before fading out of sight. Rumour in the Sanctuary speaks that some sort of opening ceremony for 'games' was held at the crossroads, where now an enigmatic purple sphere stands atop a stone pedestal. While the exact rules and nature of the game remained somewhat a mystery, it is said that a full set of nine 'cards' should be brought to the pedestal to claim victory. Indeed, already a few of adventurers and travelers have told about finding odd card pieces in the most curious of places.

::[ Mirtul 8th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

The quiet of Sanctuary was broken this dark by a rumbling tremor throughout the Underdark, shaking books from shelves, drinks from tables, residents from their beds. A panicked sending by a Dwarven cleric of Berronar Truesilver led to confused and conflicting reports of her goddess' unresponsiveness. Some believe the entire Dwarven pantheon to be extinguished, while others speak of a 'prophecy' foretelling the betrayal of the Dwarven gods by Abbathor. Director Austanias Glademore called for an assembly within the House of Knowledge and explained that while he could not speak with authority as to the fate of the Dwarven gods, proof of some lingering Divine spark had been discovered. These relics and artifacts of the gods- fallen or otherwise- are sought desperately by the Director, who urged the adventuring population of Sanctuary to bring any they recover to the attention of the House of Knowledge.

There is an unmistakable aura of dread among the Dwarven populace of Sanctuary...

::[ Mirtul 10th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Rumours tell that the Sanctuary Below is now occupied by servants of the ooze, who call themselves the Covenant of the Pure.

Of course, the truth is as murky as the waters of the flooded ruins. The people of Lower Sanctuary, it is believed, have entered into the Covenant, along with ooze-slurping cavemen, and the drow that now occupy the Lower Sanctuary fortress.

How exactly this strange deal and completely undetected migrations came about is anyone's guess in Upper Sanctuary. Few believe the stories that the giant ooze masses in Lower Sanctuary warbled wet songs and opened like maws to spill out the unwelcome travellers. Few believe far-fetched tales of a formative meeting that occurred within the giant ooze in the Dark Lake itself, or in Lower Sanctuary, or in a variety of other speculated places.

But none can dispute the existence of the Covenant, and its intents to free the slaves, cleanse the world, and destroy tyrants.

The Watchers and Warders maintain stability amidst the transformations wracking Sanctuary. Meanwhile, the diseased (or as some conspiracies say, the aberrant sympathisers and monsters) of the Public Housing Vaults continue to stir anxieties in Upper Sanctuary. It is said that Idraen Markem's mysterious mentor, Malark Amblecrown, gathered together the Society for an urgent meeting regarding recent developments... Tales swirl. The Spellguard clamps down, ever denying the troubles of the vaults, ever quietly championing Director Idraen Markem's leadership of the Society and his efforts to reign in the strange excesses of the vaults.

Something older and stranger has risen now, and it threatens to break the brittle lies of the Watchers and Warders in pursuit of its quest for absolute purity.

Amidst the tumultuous emergence of new powers in the city of Dunwarren, rumours spread of lesser, but evidently no less concerning developments for the city of Sanctuary.  Notably, a peculiar outbreak of madness which has run the gamut of social status and geographic location within the metropolis.  The talk of the taverns is that at least half a dozen, if not more, citizens have been afflicted by a strange malady of the mind which seems to reduce them to screaming, horror stricken shells.  The gruesome self-mutilations, murders and suicides that have resulted from this hysterical insanity have left many people living in fear, given the silence of the Watchers and Warders on the matter and no evident cause or cure for those affected.  

Furthermore, within the Public Housing Vaults, the "Twisting Malaise" continues it's spread, with ever more strange sightings reported by the multitudes who yet dwell there.  Though many vault dwellers laud the efforts of Director Markem and a small band of his most loyal ordinants in attempting to quell the outbreak, deep suspicions surround the deformed Dark Brothers of Malark Amblecrown who stalk the vaults like nightmarish, surrealist impressions of the once noble knights.  Amongst the chaos brewing there, tales abound of a growing turf war between established criminals and upstarts, fled from the now ruined and ooze-ridden Lower...

::[ Mirtul 16th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Strange purple mist passes through the Underdark, whispering to its denizens: "The Champion... Tullus Horatii... has been Crowned." It fades into nothingness as swiftly as it came.

Travelers notice that the mysterious, glowing sphere on the Crossroads has vanished.

::[ Mirtul 17th : 1386 DR ]::

A few minutes towards the fifth bell of the dark, a strange phenomena seemed to affect all living, sentient beings in the Underdark. Some people experienced a strange sensation of deja vu, as if they relived the same ten minutes twice in a row. Others, however, recall a harrowing vision or hallucination: an explosion out in the wilds of the Underdark triggering a monstrous earthquake cracking Sanctuary into falling rubble--the High Apartments crashing into the major landmarks of Upper Sanctuary, causing Freedom Square to subsequently collapse into a Lower Sanctuary below with whole portions of itself drained of slime.

The phenomena ended as suddenly as it began. Confused people found the streets of Lower Sanctuary to still be inundated in slime and Upper Sanctuary stood where it always has.

A few inquisitive types, however, wondered if the loud explosion heard originating from out in the Underdark did or did not happen... (//%22http://www.efupw.com/forums/forum/information/announcements/71643-new-content?p=668419#post668419%22)

::[ Mirtul 18th : 1386 DR ]::

Explosions rocked the landscape deep in the further reaches of the Underdark. Battle raged within the Lava Pits, and rumors soon fly disseminating the tale of dwarves and adventurers invading the home of a Fire Giant, eventually emerging from the cavernous chamber bloodied and battered but weighed down with gold. The wild and belligerent exclamations via sending of one dwarf in Sanctuary suggests a more sinister motivation to the attack than racial grudges or Dwarven expansion. Nature abhors a vacuum, it seems, and but one cycle later, a grim contingent of armor-clad Duergar made their way towards the Lava Pits, bearing the sigil of the eye of Ormulax. Soon, the sounds of bellows working and hammers pounding echoed once more through this region of the Underdark as the new residents made themselves at home with practiced ease.

 But not all dwarves within the foundry bore skin of coal and snow-white beards. A regiment of dark-eyed Duergar heralded the arrival of the newly named Liason-Lord Vulkan Highhearth, ambassador of Barom Ormulax. The ambassador and his entourage saw a mixed reaction from Sanctuary, the most hostile from what would appear to be the former laborers of the "Slagspire", who hurled vitriol at the former exile for his tolerance of the Duergar. Undeterred, the procession made their way into the city proper, to the ambassadorial embassy of the High Apartments.

Red Guild merchants and craftsmen are already rubbing their hands together at the potential influx of arms and armor flowing in from the far reaches, while Black Ravens are quick to bring up the questionable history of the former Thane, and the untimely fate of the last emissary of Ormulax.

::[ Second of Kythorn : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Mounting tensions between the Black and Red Guilds came to an explosive head this dark. It began in the Public Housing Vaults, where the construction of a sculpture crafted entirely from dung by goblin 'artisans' drew the attention of Red Guild Prefect Jamren Sabreen. A spirited argument between the "goblin prefecture" and Markem's representative soon devolved into name-calling and threats. It was not until the arrival of Ma's Boys that the gathering turned violent-- though no one is quite clear which side drew first blood. While the Boys were repelled by the united forces of the Vault-- Eagles, Exiles and in-between-- explosive devices carried by the Ravens detonated as the survivors searched among the corpses, wounding several and immolating Prefect Sabreen.
 
Sabreen's body was ferried to the mausoleum by friends, admirers and inhabitants of the Vault. Many of his well-wishers, with narrowed eyes and clenched fists, swore vengeance on the Black Guild for this grievous blow, while others preached of turning this tragedy into an opportunity, to unite the Guild and honor Sabreen's spirit. Drinks were had in the man's memory-- his preferred brand of wine passed from hand to hand.

Some believe this attack may have been inspired by a Red rally held outside the workmill by a priest of Tempus who called for the expulsion of 'Craven Ravens' from the city. Others whisper that the late Prefect brought down the ire of the Guild himself, with his decision to change parties late into his tenure as Prefect. Whatever the case, it seems clear that it has become riskier than ever to carry a badge of the wrong shade.

::[ Kythorn 4th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Throughout the flooded channels once called Lower, the burbling slimes are shot through with ruddy crimson. The gutters are slick with sanguine gore and grime, and the scorched and mutilated corpses of once proud warriors float waterlogged - bobbing along on their journey to join with the Source. The Ancients and the Anarchists yield to the dead a dirge of slurping and shuffling.

Above, in "Middle" Sanctuary, a solemn and private ceremony is held for the fallen of the Watchers and Warders - never again to take up their post - and for the adventurers who stood at their side. Higher authorities have yet to issue a statement, and what dregs of the Covenant below who still dare the streets glower darkly over their cups in the corners of the Grotto.

Wounds are nursed. Grudges are sworn. And another dark begins...

::[ Kythorn 15th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

The citizens and residents of Sanctuary tell of the successful mission carried by the adventuring population of Sanctuary where they destroyed a band of Orog slavers, all while managing to free dozen of human slaves. Shortly after the operation, a series of new rumors can be heard of large groups of humanoids patrolling next to Sanctuary, and judging by their tracks, these creatures don't frequent Dunwarren's surroundings.

// Edit: Postponing it to tomorrow. Time will be about 4-5 from the original post time

::[ Kythorn 28th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

An envoy garbed in the tarnished colors of Kingsley's Swords arrived at the Barbican Gate of Sanctuary soon after the midday's meal. Boldly standing before the defenders there, it announced the latest phase of the Dread's twisted machinations in Dunwarren: Overseer Rhiannon Kingsley has made it the prize of hundreds of the Empire's lesser champions. Whosoever among these macabre multitudes grinds Sanctuary to dust shall be granted dominion over the ruin, and - or so it is claimed - a place of honor within the Hierarchy of the Empire.  The Crusade of the Solitary Mind had been declared.

Naturally, defenders of all stripes balked at the notion that they could be defeated - the city, they claimed, had already resisted the Overseer herself. What chance had any of her subordinates?

That is when the Dread Envoy grinned, and made his second proclamation:

That the Empire was intimately aware of the brewing divide among Sanctuary's denizens. That any who betrayed their loathed kindred would receive amnesty from the Dread, when their inevitable conquest came... but whilst Covenant, Warder, and Exile eyed their neighbors, the first would-be warlords of the Crusade appeared to claim their prize.

What follows is chaos - a score of disparate Dread-loyal forces fell upon the Barbican and the Canals of Dunwarren. Maniac Drow leading packs of mutant hounds, cabals of gibbering mentalists, rapacious rat-speakers and their hordes, and a score of other horrors came swirling down.

And death came marching after...

::[ Shieldmeet : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

As new quotas and calibrations were enacted by the Watchers and Warders, the assorted freaks of the Vault murmured and griped amongst themselves of "the latest oppression". Tensions rode high during the week prior to this once celebrated holiday, and as panels were pried apart and knives were sharpened all knew trouble would come sooner rather than later.

Starag's Rest, and the Warder checkpoint there-in, would play host to the first catastrophe to follow on the heels of the late Spellguard-led containment efforts. Members of the Knights of the New Path, led by the Knight of Flies, clashed with Watchers and Warders under the command of Agent Elaine Vadrell. As these two captains of their respective forces battled, the elven lord Ikharias Lareth and his retainer entered the fray - slinging spellfire and high sorcery in ten-thousand directions, and slaughtering friend and foe alike.

As the Vaultsmen and Watchers struggled to diffuse the situation, the elven cadre quit the field - and a confused manhunt began, ending in the deaths of two notables of the dwindling number of the Tel'Quessir who remain in Sanctuary...

While this upset seems to have stalled the heightening conflict between the long-time authorities of Sanctuary and the newly risen devout of the Great Journey, most believe it only a matter of time until blood is shed once more.

And all the while... something stirs below...

::[ Eleasis 4th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

The Street of Gods was the site of a "miracle" this dark... renowned Priestess of Mystryl, Ophelia Ashmar, was seen to enter the humble alley after an announcement that her fickle Goddess would reveal her powers to any who came to witness. Unfortunately for the Priestess, few came to hear her sermon... few among the mortal, that is. While the tales vary, all agree that the Street of Gods was soon rocked with a terrific and powerful outpouring of sorcery. Blinding multicolored lights, galloping phantasms, explosive balls of flame, and choking crimson clouds filled the lane and set to flight or to the grave many of the petty "Spellbeggars" who had for so long called this little corner of Sanctuary their home...

After the catastrophe ended, the Priestess was dragged away by the Watchers and Warders... and what little sorcerous residue remained was quickly dissipated by the diligent Warders and Agents on scene...

The strange grew even stranger though, in the hours after... as a crimson light is now seen to burn within the once empty Temple.. and curious scholars, inquisitive magi, and the odd madman find themselves taking up shop in the stalls abandoned by the clergy of old...

In the Grotto, patrons in their cups begin to murmur that perhaps t'is time the Spellbeggar's Lane had a change of name...

::[ Eleasis 8th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

A routine arrest became something far more sinister this evening, as prominent Watcher Atreas Vatrath and the esoteric priest Dratheqkos Iso came to blows.  The Watcher was quick, but the Priest and his flunkies were stronger at-arms, and carted Vatrath off into the Housing Vaults...

The crowd that gathered would be witness to a terrifying sight, as the Watcher was - to the shock of the gathered - revealed to be a Thrall to powers unknown.  Amidst false accusation, confused accounts, and perjury, the Watcher escaped first the custody of the Vaultsmen and then the shackles of his brothers-in-arms...

A manhunt was called and the Underdark was combed for the suspected Dread Thrall, and rumors abound that he has sought asylum with distant settlements... or perhaps brokered a deal of some sorts, winning amnesty from the shadowy Exiles.  Reports fly in from all directions, of sightings in the slums below, the Vaults, and even one crazed explorer claiming to have seen the Thrall boarding a ship bound for the Shaggalands...

Paranoia abounds.  Warders are seen to double their posts at the Checkpoints, and random screening of citizens recommences to a degree not seen since the advent of the Crystal War...
 

::[ Eleasis 23rd : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

It began with a somber occasion - Prefect Zaresh of the House of Trade held a 'going away' sale within the city, but this evening his store contained a quite strange curio indeed! A clutch of Illithid Imprisonment Bubbles, which hatched within their container and flooded the House, resulting in a catastrophic and hectic melee that saw several men of the Exiles, Watch, and Covenant making their rounds upon the cold floor. The Dark continued, as the mayhem spilled into the streets of the city proper and her Public Housing Vaults - the hectic brawl culminated (as so often these things do) with the taking of hostages, and a duel betwixt a self-proclaimed Knight of the Covenant and Ser Malark Amblecrown...

Just as things seemed to be settling, the Dread Forces of Kingsley's Crusade came a-calling at Sanctuary's gates. Amidst blood-slicked cobbles and a rather bizarre mutiny among the aberrant ranks as Ser Amblecrown struck their rear flank, the city endured - though one of her defenders was found curiously missing when the smoke cleared. As perplexed defenders formed a search party, the infamous bandit and Pilgrim of the Great Journey, Kalin, stole away with a woman of the city...

As the braying hounds of the growing manhunt closed in around him, Kalin was said to have cursed his pursuers and former friends... before being executed for his many crimes by the combined forces of Middle Sanctuary...

Late into the evening, Prefect Zaresh's voice was heard over the sending system speaking of a coming important announcement. He bid all to gather at the House of Governance, where himself, Prefect Miriam, Ophelia and Mub'slp'slyss'op were to speak on current events.

The House of Governance filled with people, all eager to hear what announcement might bring such varied minds together as one...

​The announcement was brief and to the point, speaking of how the current Lawbook of Sanctuary was declared void and that the Prefects in attendance would instead be dictating a new one in the days to come, divorced from the rule of law of the Watchers and Warders.

​There was very little time for these words to sink in with the attended, as in a flourish of light and sound, Chief Herald Penelope Castling appeared upon the stage, and after a duelling of wits and words with the Prefects, they were ushered into the House of Governance offices, where they remained, for some time.

​Little is known about what was discussed, however the Prefects later emerged with expressions of grim determination. Many believe they were dressed down by the Chief Herald, on behalf of the Reformed Order of the Spellguard, but none know for sure.

​Soon afterwards, a number of fights broke out throughout Sanctuary, and with the Watchers and Warders quite unsure about where they stand, they were met with very little resistance.

The days to come, for certain, will be days to remember...

 ::[ Eleint 4th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Rumors fly in the dark after a series of sendings... and the whispers in the streets that followed them... of Prefect Jaysef Tyura's brutal death at the hands of some nameless Drow at the very gates of his prefecture.


.





The people of Sanctuary are left with unease and hopelessness, stirred by an ineffective and incompetent Watch, the Prefect Miriam's rebellious tearing apart of the institutions of Sanctuary, and the general sense that justice and law no longer exists in Dunwarren save for those strong enough to look after their own. Some flee to the ooze soaked streets of Lower, or petition the Knights of the New Path for retribution or the powers to defend themselves, but more simply go silent and hope that something will change for the better...

::[ Eleint 5th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

The peace of the evening was broken by the shrill screech of a compromised sending todark, as a man proclaiming himself to be a Seeker of Old Sanctuary announced that this hour would play host to a 'Freedom Raid' - a practice unheard of since the fall of that storied institution.

When curious adventurers arrived in the In-Between, they found a strange sight indeed - 'Seekers' with their iconic leathers stained ooze green, flanked by the fanatical members of the Covenant of the Pure. The leader of the band, one "Johnathan Hayseed" claimed that he and his surviving 'Seekers' had thrown in their lot with the Covenant - and that the assembly of anarchists unified under the Ooze was the most free of all folk in the world.

Utilizing the newfound powers of the Slime, the Seekers tore open a portal into another expanse of the Underdark and led the Covenant (along with a few mercenaries) into the breach... returning a few hours later with a score of wounded, several dead, and with two-dozen confused looking former slaves of Ysinode on their heels.

The brave 'Freedom Raiders' were then seen to lead their prizes down into the flooded, stygian depths of Lower... what became of them there is anyone's guess.

::[ Eleint 7th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

It began with a proclamation - that Sheriff-Director Marshal Greer would soon arrive at the House of Governance, there to give a speech addressing the civil unrest that has shaken Sanctuary to its very core these long months. Standing atop the central plinth, flanked by the entire officer corps of the Watchers and Warders and supported by Operative Kyros Miller IV, Greer openly denounced the actions of the Prefects of Middle Sanctuary.

The account of what follows is hotly debated...

The Watchers and Warders claim that the unanimous mandate of the Directorate came smashing down upon the heads of these traitors to Mother Sanctuary, and the nullification of the lawbook so doggedly sought after by the Prefects was declared void. The Prefects were shamed before their people, their bloody campaign to destabilize the city was condemned, and the Watchers and Warders were re-confirmed as the SOLE enforcers of Law within Middle Sanctuary. The official report claims that the Prefectural forces (led by a malcontent named Wulfric the Red) struck at the Sheriff as he made to depart, in an attempt to claim by force what was denied them by law.

Various malcontents would contend otherwise - that the Prefects and the crowd, spurred on by Dame Miriam Staudenmaier, Dermott Helmsworth, Zaresh Al-Shahrok and Ophelia Ashmar rejected outright the legality of the Sheriff's claims. They call into question the unanimity of the decision, and decry the Spellguard as shadowy manipulators pulling Greer's strings. They go on to say that the Dame and the People held against the Watchers and Warders, who attacked them in a bloody attempt to enforce their new edict.

The climactic struggle of the evening, when recounted, holds no contradiction...

This evening the doors of the House of Governance closed shut, after admitting a crowd of the curious and the bereaved...

And when those same doors opened anew, out washed a tide of spattered gore and arterial spew... and the iron-shod jackboots of the Watchers and Warders soon came marching triumphantly after.

They are calling it the "Night of Crimson Cobbles"

Those who survive lick their wounds - the rebels regroup behind closed doors cowed by their defeat, while the Watchers boast proudly of fresh wounds and gather to the banner of the now-maimed Sergeant Yodert Pond.  It is said that Warder Wyatt Janderson, for standing valiantly alongside his superiors, is to be granted a full pardon for previous missteps... and a commendation, for his service.

::[ Eleint 8th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

As the last remnant of Watcher support was forced to withdraw in order to combat the growing rebellion in Sanctuary, the men of Resistance Row made their final stand within the Public Housing Vaults. Cut off from their allies in the City, the Militia under Captain Arty Vale sealed their own escape in a daring taunt to the Pilgrims of the Great Journey and their Emissary.

For five long hours, the Vaults were silent... those dwelling in Starags Rest could see nor hear what occured within the vast labyrinthine tunnels. When the Vaults were unsealed, it was already over... the starving men of the Row had given in, and now sported the freakish mark of the Exiled. Captain Vale was nowhere to be seen: when adventurers from the City came calling, they found only the infamous Ser Malark Amblecrown... cleaning his bloody blade in the street.

The Resistance - long defiant - has finally and fully capitulated.

::[ Eleint 12th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

The return of Miriam Staudenmaier, Wulfric the Red, Kanedias of the New Path, and a curious oozeling from the surface all bearing a horrific curse sends shivers through the populace of Sanctuary.  Those Prefects and other rebels who accompanied the Dame on her 'redemption quest' to the Isle Ymph are never seen, or heard from again... dark rumors abound - they tell of treachery, they tell of revelations, they tell of ancient rusted ruins and the death of shades long spent... and perhaps most wildly of all, they tell of a Dragon's doom, and the wonders of the Hoard of Slithishulax.  

Many Red Mantles, overcome with a queer mix of elation and grief, bustle in and out of the House of Knowledge ... yammering on of the implications of this journey, and what has been gained or lost in the gamble.

The Watchers and Warders, for their part, strut smugly about the Sanctuary - boasting of the Tower's swift and steady doling of vengeance for the month's bloody revolt.

It would seem that the burgeoning rebellion has ended, before it ever truly began.

And the days march on...

::[ Eleint 26th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

It is a day that marks the dawning of a new era for Sanctuary.  

The surviving rebels (aided by a contingent of Vaultsmen and Covenant) shattered the forces of the Watchers and Warders and stole away into the depths of the House of Knowledge early in the evening.  They left the streets bloody and the Spellguard furious - but what would follow would complicate matters for that ancient Order even further.  As the rebels battled through queer and eldritch dreams within the depth of the House, the familiar image of the Chief Herald appeared all across Sanctuary...

And began to denounce the Reformed Order, reading out a list of their many deceptions to the abject horror of their architects.  The Chief Herald unveiled her true identity - as Observer Calandra Thervion, a top-level Operative of the Tower, and thwarted the attempts of the Agents and Watchers to silence her broadcast.  For several hours, she aired the Reformed Order's dirty laundry before an increasingly baffled, skeptical, and bewildered Sanctuary.  

What was the catalyst for this sudden and shocking betrayal? Nothing less than the discovery of a surviving member of Sanctuary's most sacred and storied bloodline... by the hand of the rebel forces, a BRESLEY has returned to Sanctuary!

As this penultimate truth was unveiled, the city erupted into utter chaos.  The Spellguard attempted desperately to maintain control as years of carefully constructed narrative came crumbling down around them -- The Chief Librarian (revealed to be Agent Lorius Kesler, chief propagandist of the Order) was struck down by rebel forces, and Spellguard Commander Duke Barkely vanished under mysterious circumstances.  

The bloodshed was slated to intensify, when the freshly-promoted Spellguard Commander Kyros Miller IV bid the Watchers and Warders to stand down.. and welcomed the Boy-Mayor, William Bresley, back to Sanctuary.  William, in the company of Calandra Thervion, announced that great changes would soon come to Sanctuary - to rousing applause - before ascending into the House of Governance to begin the reformation efforts himself.  
 

 ::[ Eleint 30th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

The Boy-Mayor of Sanctuary made his first declarations this eve... announcing the dissolution of the Directorate, to be replaced with a Council like that of Old Sanctuary.  The watering holes and taverns of the city are filled with posturing would-be-politicians, eagerly working on their proposed platforms and darning new and strange guild colors to represent their beliefs.  It is unknown how many Council Seats remain, but the Mayor has welcomed all citizens to send him their letters of intent -- and the various cults, madmen and zealots of Middle Sanctuary are eager to stake their claims.

Meanwhile, the Watchers and Warders lick their wounds, dreading the turning tides... and preparing to secure what powers remain to them against the onslaught of petitioners now jockeying to be their headsmen.  

Some say it all began by a "my story is better than yours" contest of refugees gathered around a worm soup in Starag's. Others claim they knew it was a matter of time until "They" reacted to world's end. Most discard the stories as desperate men's clinging on the wild hopes... Depressed souls even speak of yet other futur thralls to increase the numbers of the Dread armies...
 
But more often than not, "Dragons" have begun to appear in tales of survivors from the surface. A Brass one was spotted in his dying forest camp, says old man woodcutter Curwig. A Copper one was seen circling above her wrecked town, says former barmaid Dunlipa. Little orphan Jody swears to whom would hear her that she saw a silver wyrmling spying on an ogre thrall army's camp in the rocky hills she had fled to. Boasting fishermen Ted swore he'd seen a -flight- of Golden wyrms soar above the great plains and bring havoc to Dread troops below. The one handed veteran Kron Van Dec tells a different story, of a Great Bronze flying -away- from invaders.
 
For most long term residents of the underdark, it seems to matter little wether these stories hold any truth to them, or if hope and despair are spinning their webs of lies and illusions. Life goes on. Life goes on... For down below, rumors of great wyrms of the dark, past or present, are nothing new...

::[ Marpenoth 16th : 1386 DR ]::

Rumours of a host of devils and fiends unleashed somewhere out in the Underdark some cycles ago coalesced into fact this dark. What used to be tales told by adventurers of encounters with planar fiends out in the wilderness cavern became a modestly sized army of horrific devils marching upon the barbican gates.

At the head of this army was a small, blue-skinned winged evil identifying herself as Merkara the Swift, Messenger of Queen Dietza Swan whom had grown tired of waiting for Sanctuary to come to her with tribute. Councilors Isedreus Ghaustryn and Wulfric the Red, arrived at the Barbican with a large number of adventurers behind them and spoke on Sanctuary's behalf but it is said that the conversation between the leaders of the defenders and aggressors was especially short as Wulfric consistently interrupted the Messenger with stubborn threats despite Ghaustryn's attempts to learn more about the Messenger, her Queen, and the army standing at attention behind her.

Not soon after the Messenger grew tired of attempting to converse with the Councilors, she returned to her army and a horn sounded. The devils marched upon the gates and defenders of the barbican. It is said that the battle was a clear victory for the defenders, the devils only being able to penetrate the gates via the use of magical portals. Victory came at a price, however, and it was noted during the battle that whenever a Watcher of Sanctuary was injured or fallen on the battlefield, a devil would grab them and flee with the--undoubtedly--poor soul.

Though the fiendish army was easily repelled, friends, family, and colleagues of the fallen and taken Watchers are keenly aware that this devil Queen got the tribute she demanded. And, more importantly, they can't help but wonder if this Queen will demand more...

::[ Marpenoth 27th : 1386 DR ]::

In a little over a tenday, an army of fiends marched upon the gates of the barbican a second time. As before, the blue-skinned Merkara the Swift approached the gates first. Greeted by Councilor Isedreus Ghaustryn and a coterie of adventurers, the messenger made it known that tribute to Queen Dietza Swan was due yet again--and, in light of the previous level of "co-operation", a doubling of the tribute was expected.

The messenger was denied out right--Sanctuary would not offer tribute. Merkara offered a chance for reconsideration, for the demand for tribute to be relayed to the city proper, but the unexpected show of patience was also rejected.

And so the army of devils approached, their grotesque roars and marching feet being the sound of their anthem. As they came within yards of the barbican gate, however, portals suddenly opened up in the air, swallowing the devils and whisking them away.

The defenders were dumbfounded but their confusion was shattered by horrific clarity seconds later as screams of terror rang out in the streets of Upper Sanctuary. Upon reaching the city, the defenders found the streets filled with malignant dretchs and terrifying abishai attack the common people. The battle was brutal and bloody, but like before it did not last long. And soon after, commoners filled the streets despite the sight of dead devils upon the streets to search for now missing friends and family members.

As before, the Queen received the tribute she demanded...

11th of Uktar, 1386 DR

What began with a foul taste in the water for the Public Housing Vault residents soon erupted into an invasion as drowned dead fell from water pipes above the residencies. The horde quickly engulfed the streets in massive turmoil before spilling into Starag's Rest, where the valiant efforts of Brix Colton and Nathzmar Baelghustrg held them at bay from the streets of Sanctuary for a time. Scriveners were at hard work in the aftermath and as the streets got cleared up, theories about what spurred this attack began forming -- the blame passing around in increasingly wilder theories.

Yet a few remember a strange sending made some time earlier, talking about an aberrant disease and a Doctor's cure.

::[ Tarsakh 15th : Year 161 : 1383 DR]::

The House of Governance has been buzzing with activity of late. A line of advisers, aids and prominent leaders of Sanctuary have been coming and going, locked in private discussions with the Mayor and his Secretary. Rumors begin swirling as the military powers of Sanctuary prepare for a potential call to arms in the weeks ahead. Nobody seems to be talking but one popular rumor seems to imply it is related to a vote held in secret by the Councilors of Sanctuary. With nobody talking, interested parties eagerly begin seeking out their favored Councilor for news.

::[ Uktar 19th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Lights flick on throughout the Dunwarren machine. A blur of shadow and bright tells of systems once dormant, or perhaps never used at all, buzzing to life.

In Sanctuary, there are cries of triumph from Agents. Warders whisper to each other in wonderment, in curiosity. What might be the cause of such joy?

Some breakthrough. Some terrific thing.

A rumour spreads that ordinary citizens of Sanctuary can now purchase a Ring of Final Sanctuary for ten thousand Sanctuary Sovereigns.

A rumour spreads of a change in Dunwarren. Of illusion chambers. Of marvels never before seen under the earth.

A rumour spreads that an exhilarated Spellguard Operative: Senior Animator Basian Dhimani was seen in Freedom Square, and there remarked to the statue of Frederick Bresley: "I found the surface for you, idiot. It was here the whole time."
 

::[ Uktar 24th : 1386 DR ]::

Early in the dark, a large host of adventurers lead by the eccentric but entertaining gnome Cosgrove Bilgeburgerbofflebaum departed Sanctuary, making way towards the deep reaches of the Underdark. As word spread that they were setting out to lay siege to the castle held by the Devil Queen Dietza Swan, many spoke of how they hoped these adventurers would be successful in bringing justice or punishment to the devils who had stolen a number of Sancturians.

Many hours later, the world shook and trembled. A great roar echoed through every cave--big or small, winding tunnel or expansive chasm. The adventurers returned; tired, ragged, and grim-faced at the loss of some of their numbers--supposedly two brave and selfless individuals: Chadra Myl, a pious and monastic woman of the Crying God, and Ranir Domov, a mystic sage of the wild lands. But, yet, they spoke of victory upon their return. Victory. Victory and an end to the existence of the Devil Queen.

Now, any who venture out to where the strange castle stood, upon a precarious platform above the Lowerdark, they would find only the mere, empty abyss of the dark.

::[ Uktar 24th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Gossip spreads of a grim experience that took place in the darkness beyond in which many of Sanctuary's notables participated. Summoned by the eerie sounds of a blasting horn (http://vocaroo.com/i/s05QbBrpPikk) a group found their way to the Windy Canyon whereupon they discovered an enormous, pale Box of truly bizarre appearance.

Entering the Box they found themselves the subject of a sick game or experiment.. It is said that they were forced to choose among treasures of various quality and then even between the lives.of different groups of animals and at last humans.

Eventually the experience came to its end, and the adventurers - followed by a pack of animals, several children, and a bedraggled Spellguard Agent who had long been believed dead - returned to Sanctuary.

::[ Nightal 6th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Quietly, rumors begin to spread through Sanctuary. Some say that the Council has made a declaration to cut off all association with the Mound of Magnatz, though more enlightened skeptics wonder where Sanctuary will secure coal with the Mound holding a near complete monopoly in the region thanks to his slave force.

Meanwhile, other rumors speak of insults, grievances and operations that have continuously wronged the feared Baron Ormulux or simply failed to provide what he has been promised by Sanctuary. The hubris of Sanctuary's leaders begins to test the patience of Fort Mur, some say.

All the while signs that the Mound and Fort Mur are consolidating their forces and bolstering their resources, for what it is not yet clear. Sanctuary having done little to appease either of these dominant powers in the region, some begin to wonder how Sanctuary will endure...

::[ Nightal 8th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Arthur Vlach had become something of a notorious figure around town: always sending adventurers off on expeditions to collect this or that unusual curio, always trying to raise funds and sell shares of the business (the "Thirsty Dragon") he supposedly wanted to establish. The man with the stone ring, the bright purple jacket, and the quick smile had a way of attracting both enthusiasm - many adventurers were quick to entrust to him thousands of gold - and controversy - with others claiming that there just wasn't something quite right about him or his mysterious plans.

He had sent adventurers into the depths of demon-haunted duergar mines. He had sent them into depths of the Dark Lake, battling with crab-things, in search of sunken treasure. He had sent them into the depths of the Lowerdark, the deepest sections of the Machine of Dunwarren, and to the Bazaar of Dark Delights deep in the Underdark. He sent them against a cursed Island Fortress crawling with driders. He had sent them into the secret crypt of the hidden Vampire Queen known as the Lady of the Spire, who had long dwelt in its deepest depths. He even sent a crowd of treasure hunters to the wastelands of the surface, there to infiltrate the Repository of a Dread Illithid's in search of Seven Thrones of Seven Conquered Kingdoms.

He even, it seemed, sent two nefarious figures to "collect" the "Curio" of the House of Knowledge Donation Bowl and in so doing earned the spluttering enmity of the Councilor Elmer Blackoak.

But at long last, he had sold every share. He had his 100,000 gold. He had completed his collection.

And so he held a party.

It began with a sending:

QuoteGood dark, Sanctuary! This is your friend, Lord Arthur Vlach. When I came to Sanctuary, all that long time ago, with a dream of opening up the 'The Thirsty Dragon' Curio Shop and Lodge, I never dreamed it would have taken me so long. Well -

I am delighted that at long last, my collection is ready, and the funds have been raised. So, to celebrate, and to welcome the arrival of The Thirsty Dragon, I'll be having a little celebratory party. It will also be a retirement party, for a dear friend, whom many of you might know. Regardless - you are invited.

I should warn you that security will be tight, so don't come thinking there is any possibility to cause any trouble. But if you're curious about my curios, why don't you join me! The celebration begins in 2 hours.

And at the appointed time, they went. Dozens of adventurers, mercenaries, share-holders, and assorted gawkers.

Met by an armored figure with a torch, they were led through the low caverns until at last they arrived at old Thomas Alqvin's Shop of Undeath and Tavern.

As they passed into the venerable old tavern, they noticed that all of its regular undead inhabitants were missing. Everything had been moved out.

They were led further, into fresh tunnels dug down and around into the Boneyard itself.

The vault below was filled with celebrating undead, ecstatic Shadow Tribe Kobolds, and purple-clad cultists surrounding the tremendous bones of the dead dragon Etorix, assembled together in one place at last. And so was the true purpose of Arthur Vlach and Thomas Alqvin, dear friends, revealed.

Etorix would rise once more.

The ritual commenced, with gold poured into a sinister brazier. Gems were placed into eye sockets. Dark words intoned. Seven thrones were crumbled.

Thomas Alqvin himself plucked from his own chest a dusty grey heart and sacrificed everything to see Etorix rise anew.

And in the end, Etorix Once More rose.

The dracolich roared its fury, screamed of vengeance, and collapsed the cavern. In wild panic, the residents of Sanctuary returned to Dunwarren to aid in setting up hasty defenses.

It did not take long for the bones of Etorix to return to old Dunwarren. It obliterated Dunwarren's defenses, tearing animatrons asunder and collapsing the walls and gate.

It ripped through the rubble, and tore through the ruins of the In Between.

Yet it did not advance upon Sanctuary proper, instead preferring to venture deeper into the ruins.

Until?

Arthur Vlach, bruised and with his coat covered with dust, found his way into the ruins. He spoke calming words to the beast, promised vengeance in some other way, and was rewarded by being knocked flat. Etorix seized the purple wearing ritualist and departed Dunwarren.

As to where Etorix Once More went, and what he will do - that remains most uncertain.

[hide=The Shouts]
::[DM Shout : [The torch light flickers in the freshly dug tunnels, twisting down and around into the bones of the Boneyard...] ]::
::[DM Shout : [The bones of the great hulk... slick and oily.... cracked in places, and attached as needed by long strands of glistening dridersilk.....] ]::
::[DM Shout : [Long collected... long gathered.... traded and sold, bartered and lost.... at last, at long last, all in one place] ]::
::[DM Shout : [The cultists in purple seem to be chanting something soft, difficult to hear....] ]::
::[DM Shout : [With great reverence, the purple-clad figure of Mr. Vlach places the huge diamond into one eye socket of the enormous skull......] ]::
::[DM Shout : [He then turns, and takes an enormous Ruby..... before, in turn, placing it into the other eye socket....] ]::
::[DM Shout : [Dripping sacks of gold.... 100,000 in value.... are then poured carelessly into a sinister brazier that burns with a purple flame....] ]::
::[DM Shout : [He then turns to the first of the seven thrones....] ]::
::[DM Shout : And in unison, the cultists chant: "And naught will be left save shattered thrones, with no rulers." ]::
::[DM Shout : And the first throne crumbles to dust. ]::
::[DM Shout : He goes to the second... and once more chants: ]::
::[DM Shout : "And naught will be left save shattered thrones, with no rulers." ]::
::[DM Shout : And the third.... ]::
::[DM Shout : "And naught will be left save shattered thrones, with no rulers." ]::
::[DM Shout : As each throne is destroyed.... cultists and others begin to chant the words.... ]::
::[DM Shout : "And naught will be left save shattered thrones, with no rulers." ]::
::[DM Shout : Once more a throne.... ]::
::[DM Shout : "And naught will be left save shattered thrones, with no rulers." ]::
::[DM Shout : He approaches the sixth throne.... ]::
::[DM Shout : And chants: "And naught will be left save shattered thrones, with no rulers!" ]::
::[DM Shout : And finally, he turns to the seventh throne, and chants.... ]::
::[DM Shout : "And naught will be left save shattered thrones, with no rulers!" ]::
::[DM Shout : He stands before the brazier, a look of sadness in his eyes suddenly... ]::
::[DM Shout : He says: "Thomas, old friend, it is time." ]::
::[DM Shout : The peculiar figure of Thomas Alqvin, once adventurer of the early days of Sanctuary, long exiled, long walking the pale path between life and death, long shopkeeper, long observer and friend to so many of Sanctuary`s villains.... ]::
::[DM Shout : ... stands before the brazier, thoughtfully, and he looks at the huge figure of bone before him..... ]::
::[DM Shout : He extends his skeletal hand.... and uses it to impale his own chest, and with a terrible grimace pulls out a shrunken, dusty, yet-still-beating heart.... ]::
::[DM Shout : With his final act, Thomas Alqvin drops the heart into the brazier, before collapsing and expiring forever more. ]::
::[DM Shout : And Vlach intones loudly : ]::
::[DM Shout : "BUT THE DEAD DRAGONS SHALL RULE THE WORLD ENTIRE" ]::
::[DM Shout : As the screaming ghostly apparitions of the Dragon`s soul circles the chamber.... the chant continues ]::
::[DM Shout : "BUT THE DEAD DRAGONS SHALL RULE THE WORLD ENTIRE." ]::
::[DM Shout : "SO IT WAS WRITTEN, SO IT SHALL BE...." ]::
::[DM Shout : And the ground shakes and then - ]::
::[DM Shout : It rises. ]::
::[DM Shout : The bones... shift... and rise... and Etorix-Once-More stands proud and tall. ]::
::[DM Shout : It gazes over the crowd.....and utters a shrieking, piercing ROAR..... ]::
::[DM Shout : It tenses, as if to leap.... ]::
::[DM Shout : And suddenly utters a terrible word: "VENGEANCE" ]::
::[DM Shout : It flaps its bony wings, and with shrieking shadows.... ]::
::[DM Shout : It rises, and collapses the roof of the chamber! ]::
::[DM Shout : The gathered flee for the side, dodging falling rocks, and - ]::

::[DM Shout : Adventurers climb out of the rubble.... ]::

::[DM Shout : As the huge skeletal-dragon flaps off.... ]::

:[DM Shout : The caves tremble as something enormous and terrible approaches Dunwarren. Something that had uttered one word. ]::
[DM Shout : The klaxon blares as Spellguard Animatrons rumble out of caves and head for the gates. ]::
:[DM Shout : The collosal figure of bone approaches the Barbican.... ]::
:[DM Shout : It stands, silent, gazing... almost as if it is remembering ]::
:[DM Shout : It flaps its wings... roars out a word.... ]::
:[DM Shout : "VENGEANCE" ]::
:[DM Shout : --The Watchers at the gates of the Barbicans stand beside hulking animatrons. Unlike their metal and golemic counterparts, however, many of the Watchers are seen quaking in their boots...--- ]::
:[DM Shout : Shadows emerge and attack.... ]::
:[DM Shout : It tears the animatrons apart. ]::
:[DM Shout : The huge titan of bone begins to rip and tear at the gates, the walls of the Barbican.... ]::
:[DM Shout : They collapse and turn to rubble. ]::

:[DM Shout : It heads for the stairs. ]::
:[DM Shout : It prowls through the In Between.... destroying the small animatrons hurled against it.... ]::
:[DM Shout : It begins to march towards Sanctuary. ]::
:[DM Shout : It continues its inexorable march.... ]::
:[DM Shout : A fresh group of ill-maintained animatrons approach it. ]::
:[DM Shout : The people of Sanctuary begin to scream with panic, running about everywhere.... ]::
:[DM Shout : As it approaches the inner gates into Sanctuary, a final line of defense prepares itself ]::
:[DM Shout : It approaches Sanctuary, and sets to dispatching another three animatrons.... ]::
:[DM Shout : Mere feet away from Sanctuary, but then - ]::
:[DM Shout : It turns... and heads deeper into the ruins? ]::
:[DM Shout : It flaps its wings, and heads a short distance deeper in the ruins ]::
:[DM Shout : Smashing through the rubble as it goes ]::
:[DM Shout : It slays a few very unfortunate bandits on its way ]::
:[DM Shout : It tears at ancient structures in a wrath.... ]::
:[DM Shout : Tearing at the rubble... searching? ]::
:[DM Shout : It flaps deeper ]::
:[DM Shout : Once more it sets to tearing at the rubble.... ]::
:[DM Shout : As Vlach, holding the statuette, speaks to the Dragon in quiet words.... ]::
:[DM Shout : It slashes forward with a huge claw, and knocks him flat. It grabs the stunned form of Vlach, roars once more, and flies off..... ]::
:[DM Shout : It circles once, twice, thrice.... the ruins of old Dunwarren... ]::
:[DM Shout : And then speeds away into the darkness. To where..... ]::
:[DM Shout : You do not know. ]::
:[DM Shout : Exhausted and in a state of shock, the adventurers head back to Sanctuary - much deprived of its defences - yet Sanctuary still stands. ]::
[/hide]

Screenshot Thread (http://www.efupw.com/forums/forum/main-forums/screen-shots-obituaries/676501-praise-etorix-raised-again)

::[ Nightal 9th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Sanctuary is disturbed by a slight vibration - almost as if there was an enormous collapse far distant from Dunwarren itself.

Hours later, a rumor begins to spread by a coterie of adventurers who went to investigate the collapse.

Traensyr, once great metropolis of the drow, now conquered by the Dread Empire, has been visited by a terrible Shadow.

The Shadow came, and parted the huge, ancient webs that supported the darkly splendid upper quarters of the city. Spires and stone stalagmites were collapsed in huge gusts of decaying breath. The upper quarters of Traensyr have apparently collapsed, and the City has been left a rubble-strewn ruin.

After wrecking unimaginable destruction, the winged Great Shadow Death swept away from Traensyr and did not return.

The Dread forces under the enthralled Kingsley, hugely damaged, were forced to withdraw into some deeper protected section. The old Slaver's Road, way to Old Port and the surface above, has been severed and destroyed. Ysinode has, perhaps, been cut off from the rest of the Dread Empire.

Along the docks and shorelines of the rubble-filled Traensyr, ooze have begun to take advantage of the absence of Dread Forces to burble forth and slide from the waters.

As for where Etorix Once More has gone now, none can say.


 

::[ Nightal 10th : Year 164 : 1386 DR ]::

Word spreads of an ill fated attempt to pilfer treasure from a troll cave along the low road. It is said that the last remaining troll fled, rousing Magga the Troll Witch to aid against adventurers.

The adventurers were driven back to the Crossroad Caves, overmatched if not for a timely killing spell by Warder ​Asathiel Visara, sending her form hurtling into the Scamander river to fates unknown. Her death it would seem, drew the ire of the trollish tribes of the region, hundreds of ancient troll forms rising from the depths, the swamps and lurking darkness of the underdark caverns. Adventurers, mercenaries and others were forced back to the now obliterated Barbican, narrowly managing to hold ground. Eventually the troll forces were beat back into a retreat to the Low Caves....

It was at the Mound that a curious meeting between the voice of Magntz delivered through a blood golem, and a barely held together mud form of Magga was found. Even more curious rumors drift back to Sanctuary of a pact made between the two, that Magnatz would take Magga as his "Maiden Fair" in return for the eye of Ormulux.

The people of Sanctuary grow ever more conflicted over their monstrous neighbors, some quietly hoping Ormulux will destroy Magnatz, bitterly remembering the many blood tributes and forced march of Sanctuary nobles to the Mound to give blood against their will.....still others hope to end the reign of Baron Ormulux and his fickle demands from those who are forced to deal with him.

::[ Hammer 5th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Tensions in the institutions of Sanctuary were revealed todark, when engineers began to assemble a machine in the House of Governance under Spellguard direction. Indeed, some say the Senior Animator Basian Dhimani himself was supervising. Amid a larger crowd that included members of the Council, the Watchers and Warders, and the Knights of the New Path, Secretary Calandra Thervion and Mayor William Bresley confronted a smug and evasive Dhimani about the purpose of the machine.

After heated words were exchanged, it was revealed that the machine was merely a dispenser of specialty coffee. Some say that this development left egg on the faces of the distressed councilors and onlookers who nearly rioted in the House of Governance over such an insignificant matter. Others suggest the Senior Animator was stooping to petty provocation of the former Spellguard Operative Calandra Thervion, and that he had better things to do with his time.

Nonetheless, the dispenser itself and its range of coffee selections was received with considerable delight even by the early objectors. Some civil servants say they have never seen the bureaucracy working so well.

Alas, those close to Dhimani say the dispenser was set up for a limited time only to "help an old friend".

 

::[ Hammer 13th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Todark Mayor William Bresley spoke words that have since been called "The Three Decrees (//%22http://www.efupw.com/forums/forum/in-character-forums/house-of-governance-official-proclamations/678426-the-three-decrees-of-william-bresley%22)".

Some remark upon the increasing influence of the Exile Collective in Sanctuary because of William Bresley's talk of reaching out to any and all who would aid in the struggle against the Dread.

However, others point to an olive branch given to the Reformed Order of the Spellguard as more significant, for it suggested that the Watchers and Warders would not be disturbed from their activities within Final Sanctuary and the Dunwarren Machine. It was surely a warning to those still calling for the abolition or further hollowing out of the old institutions of Sanctuary.

Still others speak in more conspiratorial tones that the Secretary Calandra Thervion is the real puppeteer of these developments, and that this whole spectacle might be yet another public volley in the Spellguard's chaotic internal affairs.

Flyers around Sanctuary have begun to take on a new mood: an enthusiastic drumbeat for war.

::[ Hammer 22nd : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Word spreads that the Mythallar Chamber has been opened... and precision surface raids will begin on the morrow.

//As of next reset, our first batch of surface explorables will be available for PCs to discover.

::[ Alturiak 16th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

For almost a month the raids upon the surface world have waged a growing guerilla war on the Dread Empire's patrols. Discovery of the fate of small settlements and homesteads has brought sorrow to the hearts of Sanctuary's people, and the stream of survivors entering Sanctuary has pleased local merchants and landlords alike. The sorting process is swift: some survivors bring strange mutations and sicknesses with them, and quickly find themselves ushered into the Public Housing Vaults of the city... there to be forgotten. Those bringing riches find their way to the High Apartments or Final Sanctuary. Those with martial skills join the Watchers and Warders, or local mercenary and adventurer bands, turning their attentions back on surface conquest. Those few who do not belong, and those disillusioned by the Sanctuary that has "rescued" them, hear the cryptic call of the Covenant.

As Sanctuary changes, so its peoples respond...

• The Spellguard have grown ever more reclusive, in spite of the conflicts with the House of Governance their focus has noticeably shifted into the illusion chambers of the Machine. As long as the baublium continues to flow, they have better things to do.
• The elves of Sanctuary, it is said, continue to mull over a mysterious offer from the Revenant Court following recent attempts to evict them by the late Councilor Howard Godfrey.
• Scrappers are beginning to ply their trade on the surface, with high profile "finds" marking a new era of opportunity for the halfling scavengers. The chatter is that Scrappers brave enough to go to the surface will surely join the so-called "Scrapper Princes" who live out a luxurious retirement in in Final Sanctuary's halfling hills.
• Finn Mouldercrest and the so-called "Council of Fat Men" who manage Roaldhe Gould's estate have been heard in the elite circles of Upper talking about sponsoring surface raids. Along with this talk... it is rumoured also that the former Director, Roaldhe Gould, who has not been heard of since Eleint of Year 163... may be stirring from a lengthy coma.

And todark, word has spread that the House of Governance is organising a critical diplomatic mission to the surface world... and invites the bravest adventurers to volunteer.

//OOC: I will be running a DM quest approx 1 hour from the time of this post

::[ Alturiak 22nd : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

This dark, the House of Knowledge has been engulfed by darkness, and swarmed by shadow entities. A few scholars have been killed, but most visitors and scholars have managed to survive the incident, thanks to the quick response of a few adventurers who were close by. It is said the adventurers managed to get rid of the shadows, but not before a large shadow touched the statue of Deneir, covering it with darkness...

Scholars across the House of Knowledge whisper to each other ever more frequently, of what could this incident mean, and it is even rumored the Fellows of the House of Knowledge have gathered to discuss of what occurred.

::[ Ches 1st : 1387 DR ]::

A great quake rocks Dunwarren--perhaps even the world in its entirety. So violent and so powerful were the tremors that many expected the cave ceiling to come crashing down on Sanctuary. Over the span of a minute, the quake continued to grow in intensity. Just as it seemed as if the very ground itself was about to crumble to dust, silence suddenly fell...

After some time, when it seemed as if the quake was over for good, commoners came out of their homes to check what damage had been done. Fresh cracks and ruined stone afflicted nearly every home and building. However, strangest of all were the dead cats. Not many, but enough to be noticeable. In this corner here, in that alley there, the body of a cat could be found. Even more bizarre is that their bodies showed no signs of injury or wounds. They were not killed by falling or collapsing debris during the quake. Instead, they are found curled up, their bodies huddled in lifeless sleep.

Whether they were brought in through the rescue portals by their owners or wandered in through their own curiosity, cats used to be a common sight in Sanctuary. This strange, great passing of cats, however, is a noticeable reversal. Now more commonly seen dead, a living and breathing cat has become a rare sight for the people of Sanctuary.

Strange tidings, too, come from the wilderness beyond Dunwarren after the quake. Hunters and rothe herders alike have noted, warning all who would listen, that the predator animals of the wilds seemed to have gone berserk. Whether cave wolf or deep hound, stone lizard or dire frog, all such beasts seem to have become rabid despite no other symptoms of the maddening disease.

Yet, as eerie as these strange occurrences are, no matter how mind boggling or concerning, most are just thankful that their homes did not come crashing down upon their heads.
 

::[ Ches 7th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Following the recent incident at the House of Knowledge, the House is funding an expedition to the Surface, set to depart in a few hours. While the aim of the expedition is not known by most, rumor has it that the scholars are after an ancient relic of knowledge...

// OOC: Will be running an event about 5 hours from the time of this post.

::[ Ches 13th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Word has spread of late that the obscure divine power known as Ulutiu has met its end at the hands of invaders of its glacial domain. The giants and tribes that once worshipped Ulutiu are all but gone, and the prayers murmured to the slumbering deity are naught but air.

It was a mission to the surface world, requested from the Mayor by the Jergali Scriveners of Doom that determined this... along with a party of plucky adventurers, Councilors, and rising stars of Sanctuary.

There are rumours about that the Jergali are on heightened alert or interest regarding divine developments, with some whisper of an omen, a prophecy, or perhaps a mere severe commandment handed down by the reclusive First Scrivener.
 

::[ Ches 22nd : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

 Common men and women scoff and drink more deeply from what little ales they have across Sanctuary following the news of yet another in a long string of bewildering and self serving changes to the laws of Sanctuary, according to sendings, spearheaded by the newly appointed Councilor Ainsley Dyn. With bitterness in their voice many recall the events of the Rebellion and ponder how their lives are any better now in this "Golden Age". Hungry men ask their neighbor what the Council has done for any of them - and Sanctuary continues on for another dark.

::[ Ches 28th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

A quiet dark in Sanctuary was abruptly broken when a peculiar trail of darkness began progress towards Sanctuary, marking a path through the city itself and into the Public Housing Vaults. What happened there is not entirely certain but witnesses report a strange creature taking private residence in one of the many abandoned dwellings of the Vaults.

Afterwards a lone, Altani Don Judeneemerged emerged, a bone tail grafted to his spine. A crowd of Watchers, Warders and assorted adventurers had gathered, uncertain of what to make of the man...but whispers of "Dread experiment" soon began to fill the air. An uneventful enthrallment test was quickly dismissed by condemnations of "TREASON" by Councilor Mariums Ludstrom, resulting in a melee between mixed peoples....finally culminating in a drawn out duel between Watcher "Mercenary Captain" Maldwyn Rhwynfyr and the tailed freak.

An ominous countdown from the Spellguard broadcasting system alerted the populace to some secret deployment of Dhimani animatron to deal with the rabble rousers in. However, as the countdown was concluded, only an animatronic conductor appeared, the infamous Senior Animator Dhimani unwilling to expend one of his "masterpieces" to deal with "brainless street brawlers".

Finally the chaos began to subside as Watcher Rhwynfyr was defeated by Altani Don Judene and the House of Governance cleared.

Yet in the aftermath onlookers begin to speculate.....if Councilor Ludstrom is willing to unilaterally declare citizens as traitors and exile them without consulting the Council, how does this bode for the rumored new lawbook he is said to have had a hand in the crafting of? What does this mean for the many "freaks" and "guests" who live in the Public Housing Vaults without a councilor of their own looking out for their interests?

5th of Tarsakh, 1387 DR

Reports of unusual sights at the Dark Lake shore had the Watchers call for volunteers to make a patrol of the area. A group went out and came bloodied home, attributing the reports to the war between Ormulax and Magnatz.  Isidore Bonacieux, proclaimed Knight of Worms, made an inflammatory statement against the Mound in the aftermath of the expedition.

Hunters and other travellers in the dark have increased their preparations for every trek as tales of more encounters and missing people start to increase in number.

7th of Tarsakh, 1387 DR

News spread of a large tribe of kobolds having begun to set up a new home at the ruins of the Barbican. A resident by the name of Navarra got the risky task of approaching the tribe to know their intentions, while the rest of Sanctuary discussed what to do with this new threat. When no resolution was to be had and the prospect of an enemy performing hit and run tactics loomed at the very gates of the city, engineer Eledrik Cyphex set the darkness alight and rained fire and oil into the newly dug kobold tunnels. Their intentions thwarted, the kobolds emerged from the tunnels and were cut down by the stalwart defenders.

In the aftermath a few members of the Exile Collective turned upon the battered defenders. The kobolds -- having claimed to be driven out of their old tunnels by creatures from the Collective -- were accused to instead be another ploy of Magnatz in the ongoing war between the Mound and Fort Mur. The Exiles then left the ruined gates, a strange slaadi-like creature leading them into the darkness.

Tensions rise as news of a direct confrontation between the engineer and the Collective members spread. Citizens worry that this will lead to increased hostility between these large organizations. Yet forgotten by most, whatever caused the kobolds to flee their old home has been allowed to remain unscathed -- lurking in the hidden tunnels of the Underdark.

::[ Tarsakh 10th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]:

The silence of Sanctuary was broken by an explosion in the Public Housing Vaults. It is said than an invisible figure guided a Sanctuary worker into the Vaults. As the local militia grew curious of the drooling old man, the worker was said to explode. Killing several vaultsmen and forcing many of the populace to the square with rage. It is said that Councilor Noldarion witnessed the explosion but did not see the culprit. Questioning was the 'Voice of the People' Altani Don Judene. While he sought answers, a militiaman grew angry with the intention to incite a riot.

Before any hostilities broke loose Altani guided the angry vaultsmen back to their homes. Rumormongers rub their juicy lips as they wonder what form of justice the vaultsmen will take.

::[ Tarsakh 11th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Following on the heels of the prior dark's violence, comes another tragedy. After a brazen declaration to the standing Watchers, a bickering convocation of Drow and savages attempted to whip the dormant slimes within the alleyways and abandoned tenements of Lower into a wild frenzy. What the Covenant claims was a legitimate attempt to cleanse the Housing Vault, the Watchers and Warders are calling an un-mitigated disaster. Whether due to sabotage, the fractious nature of its conductors, or sheer mishap, a slimefolk ritual went awry - and a tide of acidic oozes and shambling revenants washed over the Southern Stair.

Thanks to the timely aid of Sanctuary's adventuring folk, and the intervention of a cadre of Knights of the New Path, the phlegm-choked hordes were pushed back into the slums... leaving behind a ruined and corroded mess where a sturdy fortification once stood. In what some decry as a rank display of opportunism, the Knights immediately took charge of the checkpoint to Lower, pledging to take up the slack for the battered Watchers.

The Knights have wasted no time re-upping the blockade, darkly boasting of the holdfast that men have begun calling the Sewer Grate.

 

11th of Tarsakh, 1387 DR

Hunters and herders report of increased sightings of beholderkin upon the Low Road. They warn travelers heading that way.

::[ Tarsakh 12th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Over the past few cycles, the halls of the House of Knowledge have become louder than usual, and a few scholars even complain and argue in the streets and at the Grotto. From what can be learned from them, it appears their studies and tomes are being rewritten and sabotaged, and scholars of different colors start to blame their colleagues of other colors.

While many ignore these issues and call it just 'petty rivalries', there have also been rumors of visitors to the House of Knowledge complaining that some books don't make any sense, whether if it's because of odd content inside them, or are just unreadable...

13th of Tarsakh, 1387 DR

A member of the Covenant announced a hunt against the emerged beholderkin threat. It is said three hunters made their fortune collecting the eyes of beholderkin. But as the hours pass some hunters have gone missing, last seen heading towards the Low Road...

::[ Tarsakh 25th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Rumors spread from lower to all over Sanctuary that a group of Watchers and Warders assisted by motley adventurers assaulted the Slime Fort inhabited by the Ghaunadauran Drow. It is not quite sure what the attackers were after but their sudden skirmish did not last for long - almost as swiftly as they stormed in they also dashed out, carrying something with them while being chased by a cadre of angry drow. It is said the drow returned back to the Slime Fort soon after, barking annoyed shouts that they'd reward well for the names and heads of the intruders.

Although many Lower people don't seem to care for the troubles of the drow, there seems to be a rising tension and fear amongst the people of Covenant as well as common lower people alike that maybe the Spellguard and their lackeys are turning back to their old ways of showing their strength on the free streets of lower whenever it is convenient for the tyrants above.

A dark later, another story travels from lip to lip. A bloodied drow is said to have tumbled down the lower stairs and falling unconscious right in the middle of the lower market. Where he came from and why he was not wearing a shred on his person except for the ornamental longsword clutched tightly in his bruised fist, none seems to know. After lying there for a while, two annoyed drow emerged from the Fort and dragged the naked drow inside.

::[ Tarsakh 27th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Refugees surged through Sanctuary guided by a group of black and silver figures calling themselves the Silverlights. The large influx of refugees put the enthrallment system in disarray, forcing a mass delay as the testing chamber's numbers grew into the twenties. in the midst of arguments between members of the Spellguard and the disgruntled members of the Silverlights an agitator from the crowd began to shoot various gasses and substances into the crowds, claiming it as riot control. What proceeded was a small riot, leaving fresh blood upon the streets. Angered by how the institutions of Sanctuary treated them, the Silverlights were guided to the Vaults by members of the Exiles. it is said that a deal was made with the Vault's powers and a barracks established.

30th of Tarsakh, 1387 DR

Caravan masters and merchants rejoice as the fall of a monstrous beholder is announced through the sending system. The Warrior's Rest and the Silverlight company members, led by Denorai Akanax and Kirk respectively, ventured forth and defeated the aberration that has been preying upon the Low Road for some time. Yet the victory was not made without a word of caution -- the names of other beholders on the prowl were mentioned, whereabouts unknown.

::[ Mirtul 2nd : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

The wind blew strangely this dark. Over a short period of time, it shifted from blowing strongly into a light breeze, to even massive tornados, if you believe what new arrivals to
Sanctuary, and some adventurers claim. While the wind blew at its strongest, it suddenly stopped in an instant, and for a whole hour, none could feel even a slight breeze. After a while, people could feel the wind again, but it was a chilling wind, colder than before, and it continues to blow colder even now.

While these occurrences happened, a group of adventurers, led by the mantles of the House of Knowledge:  Denorai Akanax and Tasmir yr`Aqath el-Bakran, have traveled to the Surface in order to get answers to some of the mysteries that involved the house for the past few cycles. They have returned with a woman dressed in white, who quickly left for the snowy caverns nearby. When they've returned, one of them said something of "Akadi being consumed by Dendar", and sendings from Akanax have mentioned Auril gaining a new weapon. Some were confused with these rumors, but most didn't pay it much thought, though they complain about the recent coldness of the wind.

A few hours after these events a Kuo-Toa merchant who arrived at Sanctuary, told of many ships sailing at the Dark Lake were drown by a massive storm and waves that took place in the waters there...

::[Mirtul 2nd: Year 165 : 1387 ]::

From the stresses of the House of Knowledge expedition, a chance to unwind was found at the Grotto where brawlers had taken scene. Denorai Akanax tired from his ventures sponsored the battles, bringing festivities and games for all to contend. The powers of Sanctuary fought for spectacle, pride, and honor, until Sergeant 'Mal' Rhwynfyr and Councilor Dyn entered. The sergeant and councilor, accompanied by forces of the order, claimed that one of the battlers, Orasez Emraz, was in violation of the freak free zones act set up by the deceased Councilor Finlay. Orasezcovered in aberrant flesh and fluid was challenged by a Spellguard swordsman. The battle was long but ended in the swordsman and the rest of the Spellguard forces abducting the freak, robbing citizens, and making way to the Deep Forges.

As soon as the man was declared abducted over the sending system, a group of Knights of the New Path emerged from the Public Housing Vaults following Herman Almar a roving knight. The group of knights marched through Sanctuary to the House of Governance demanding their companion in the crusade. Councilor Dyn met them with ire, the rest of the Spellguard forces still in the Deep Forges. To the turmoil of the house, Secretary Calandra Thervion emerged demanding answers, both parties attacking one another for answers. They would come in the form of Sergeant Rhwynfyr returning with a hidden member of the order. Their experiments on Orasez had failed, leaving only a severed head as evidence of their actions. For the crime of murdering Sanctuary citizens, the Sergeant and those under his command were to be charged for murder.

Without another word, fight broke into three forces. Sergeant Rhywnfyr's patriots, Herman Amar's Vaultsmen, and a rustic group of crimson cloaks led by Sergeant Pond. The fight was over before it began as the Vaultsmen, backed by the Exile Collective, Silverlights, and other victims of the Spellguard, defeated both Sergeants forces. It is said that a knight and two crimson cloaks were slain in the battle, along with an innocent bystander. Both Sergeants and their favored allies, were brought before the seat of the Council in shackles to await trial.

Instead of allowing Councilor Dyn to oversee the trial, Secretary Thervion selected Denorai Akanax as a test of his wisdom. Beaten and robbed by Sergeant Rhywnfyr's cadre, the people gathered with curiosity of what foul punishment Denorai would conjure for the surely guilty man. Defending Sergeant Rhywnfyr was his close friend and companion Tasmir yr'Aqath el-Bakran, prosecuting was Herman Amar of the New Path. Evidence heavily stacked against the Sergeant. Two public murders, and a series of malicious behavior in the form of assault and exploitation, were just the start. Members of the crowd confessed more crimes from before he had become a Sergeant. A warrioress from the crowd declaring the man had been hired to assassinate two citizens. A disgruntled, maimed-again Sergeant Pond demanded he not be included with his once-crimson cloak's acts, eventually being sent to the Watch Infirmary for medical procedure.

In the face of this evidence the Sergeant, and some of his closest underlings, were judged guilty. The crowds of the House clamored with excitement, preparing for the justice they demanded. The old man issued a grand punishment- the Watchers would be fired. The masses burst into anger, claiming their riots for not. For a return of the Spellguard pre-rebellious grip. Unsated, Herman demanded duel with the disgraced Sergeant, his living sword twisting and shaking for blood. The two men fought before the people, each blow ready to be their last. After gaining the upper hand, Herman's living blade pierced the Sergeant, with only a few words passing before the man was digested in his entirety by the blade. Leaving only a puddle of blood and digestive fluid. The people unsure of who to fear more: the Spellguard's tyrannic grip or the 'New Path' of the Society.

In retaliation to the Society, Councilor Dyn repealed the freak-free zones act and invited in a number of odd outsiders. One of which is said to have been a mutant with an odd companion. The duo toured Sanctuary, evaluating its environs. Butchering any that would be considered a threat. It is said that the Silverlights and a number of others finally guided the mutant to the Public Housing Vaults. It has not emerged since.

Arguments between the civil servants and remnant Councilors continue over the revision of Sanctuary's law. Debating if the Council truly can survive in independence of the Spellguard.

:: [Mirtul 4th: Year 165: 1387] ::

Another shipment of freaks came from the surface, guided by the Silverights. Strange tribal roachmen wielding spears and bows, weary of their new place below the surface. It is said that earlier that dark their members emerged from the Public Housing Vaults and immediately ran to the House of Knowledge. Submitting a generous donation for a temporary portal. Since the roachmen have arrived they have become the talk of the Vaults. Normal citizens add an extra plank to their doors, Exiles prepare new sermons to enlighten and entice their malformed brothers. The Silverlights remain silent.

::[Mirtul 8th: Year 165: 1387]::

Upon the sendings rose those of a mad priest. His cabal awaiting at the Barbican to deliver a gift to Sanctuary. A strange orb of many colors. The orb was accepted by a Watcher and was to be transported to the Deep Forges. In a strange twist, the Watcher broke his way through the House of Governance, holding the orb as an infant. The Crimson Cloaks called to arms as the orb expanded, showings its form as a dormant Imprisonment Sphere of the Dread Empire. The sphere split into many others, sending them across the House of Governance, trying to abduct clerks and other citizens. Thanks to the wards placed by Secretary Thervion, the spheres were unable to escape with their victims. That a Dread parcel could infiltrate the House of Governance so easily is an alarm to the Sanctuary populace, and it is said a public defense measure will be made with the assistance of Sanctuary's brightest populace.

::[Mirtul 11th: Year 165: 1387]::

Another riot erupted between Vaultsmen and the Council. Said to have raised from an assault on the Sewer Grate by members of the Covenant, when placing charge, Councilor 'Nev' Vearnich simply told the Knight to go back to his home. Enraged at the Councilor, and the constant attempts at enthrallment testing by members of the Spellguard, battle broke. It is said that all at once the crowds began to pick sides, reinforcements from the Vaults bringing shadow and starfire to the fray. At its end, the freak-hating masses of Sanctuary cornered the knight and Councilor Lundstrom who had entered the fray. Threatening his life. Idraen Markem emerged from the House of Governance to deal with them, the thrall detectors marking a void-possessed man. Before a sentence could be decided a gnome said to have been behind the Sewer Grate attack, slew the man with acidic magic.

A dire situation devolved into bloodbath as Exiles took to the fray led by the aged Herman Amar. Attempts at murder, raging of flesh and machine as Pacification Animatrons vurst to the streets accompanied by Secretary Calandra Thervion. When at last all rioters were lined before the House of Governance, a decree was made by Idraen Markem. Clearly torn upon whether to punish or reward his old companions, a new act, restrictive in its nature, upon the Vaults.

Some are calling it the Warden's Act. Said to restrict the passage of the Collective's freakish populace, allowing their disturbing members into Sanctuary with their new wardens, the torn and twisted Society. The angry Vaultsmen entered the House of Governance, Herman Amar emerging as Warden of the Vaults. It is said that the House of Governance's scribes are ablaze with excitement over what changes come.

Among this all it is said that Lieutenant Troff, the paranoid backbone of the Watch, has locked himself in his quarters after purchasing a surplus of water and sporebread. The Sergeants bicker among themselves without orders, wondering when he will emerge.

::[ Mirtul 21st : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

For the first time in what seems an age, the forces of the Illithid have made themselves known again in the Underdark. Dread war parties, led by the fearsome Swords of Kingsley, rampage through the caverns nearby Sanctuary... skirmishers and scouts report that the Imperial thralls seem curiously disinterested in the city's populace, driven by some other purpose.

The hunt for the lost Pride of Jultar.

Rumors abound, and sightings begin to trickle in by the dozens each hour. A freakishly large, implant riddled, venom-dripping terror now roams unshackled through the hollows. Pilgrims and adventurers are seen doubling their provisions and prayers...

Horror roams the Dark.

::[ Mirtul 21st : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

This dark, all the halflings residents of Sanctuary have suffered the same nightmare, the demise of their gods. By every account, they could see in their dream green fields that went on all the way to the horizon, trees, and flowers, truly a joyous place. When suddenly the sky became dark, and little by little, the trees and plants started to wither away. Darkness started to cover the land, and vivid images of six hins haunted the dream.

They could see a hin wielding a short sword and a shield, trying to fight the shadows away, eventually swarmed by them until nothing but blackness could be seen. Another image of a hin, running for his life, all while vanishing and appearing in different places, but ultimately, the darkness has caught up with him. Images of three of the other hins being consumed by the darkness could be seen as well.

All of the green and lights were consumed, all, except for one last single dot of light, amidst the sea of darkness; A female hin shone bright, holding a large shield, trying to hold off the darkness. For a while, she has managed to hold her own, but in time, she became tired, and her shield started to break apart. Tears dropped from her eyes, and every hin could feel her sadness. She was sad, not because of her own fate, but the fate of her children left alone in the world without her. When all hope seemed lost, and the darkness would win, the female halfling started to glitter away, into thousands of small dots of light, piercing away through the darkness, each in a separate direction.

While each hin told of their dream with small variations, they all claimed to have woken up to a bright light falling onto them, waking up with a sense of grief, yet claim they feel an odd sense of protection and the feeling of a mother's sacrifice. Many now claim that each of them holds the essence of Yondalla inside of them, and the only way to bring her back, is if the halflings will all unite as one.

::[ Kythorn 6th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

The city is filled with an eerie melancholy after reports that the "Winged Angel" Seramyssa was struck down by a mob of mercenaries while she watched her longtime companion, and ally, the Captain of the Silverlight Mercenary Company fight a duel of honor against a Red Cloak. Though the story of how she came to be laid low is unclear, most agree it was the bounty placed upon her by the Spellguard Agent Zurello, which as the councilor present made clear had only a tenuous basis in legality as she was not wanted for any capital crimes.

As more and more the refugees from the surface suffer strange aberrant mutations, it was a point of hope to many to see one so obviously good, so powerfully crafted, so proud to face the darkness both within her and beyond the shroud of Sanctuary in the name of good. With the rumor that the Councilor Tasmir was doing all in his power to let her go before the group of mercenaries violently dragged her off to the Spellguard Tower for coin placed on her head, many feel the illusion that this world could have kindness, or justice, was shattered - and some begin to doubt what strength a Councilor has to truly wield against any of the major factions, lest they have their own to back their words with steel and magic.

The loyalists of the Spellguard claim this as a great victory.

The Covenant bitterly sharpens knives, and hammers nails through clubs, and mutter that they will protect their own.

The vault dwellers of the Exile Collective mourn the passing of a just and good soul and eye the passages through Starag's Rest with veiled suspicion that they will be next.

The people of Sanctuary have lost a powerful ally against the evils of the Dark this day... and for what? For what?

::[ Kythorn 7th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

It began suddenly. A raucous explosion shook the city around midday this dark, and a smoky haze billowed out from the Refinery. Maddened Drow in slimy green leathers came storming out, the blood of the workers within still fresh upon their blades. The infamous D'lathos Zyrzanel led the band, and cackled out praise to the Lord of Slimes as he cut down Watchers and Warders in spades. Escaping into the Lower Ward, these Oathkeepers of the Covenant remain at large...

In their wake, the Drow left chaos. The baublium refinery was utterly wrecked, and the majority of its caches were been depleted or stolen. Alarms rang throughout the city, as the various sub-systems and mechanisms of the Spellguard began to power down. The gate wards flickered and faded, the Sending machines were put offline, and (worst of all in the minds of the elite) select citizens were forcibly ejected from the paradise of Final Sanctuary.

After a series of frantic sendings, a strike team assembled by the Spellguard sailed out onto the Dark Lake in search of reprieve, praying that the Ruby Grotto's vast stores of Baublium would be the city's salvation. They found only a ruin, clogged with hungry slimes and scoured clean of the crimson fuel. Battered and bloodied, the Order scrambles to find a new source of power for their miraculous machine craft...

One citizen, an effete and portly aristocrat formerly of Final Sanctuary, was seen wandering through the city in a state of undress, bemoaning his fate: "I paid good money for my Paradise, and now the Spellguard have thrust me away! How can we be expected to live among the slop?" Later reports of this porcine bourgeois being pelted with rotting fruits are unconfirmed.

::[Kythorn 22nd : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

The planes quaked as two titans clashed beyond the material. It is said that the armies of the Foehammer were no more. Gone were his navies, his hordes, and his weapons. The god was left bare against the invasion of his bloodthirsty foe. When the Reaver bore his blade into the Foehammer's chest, the god let out a hearty laugh until he collapsed. The hungry Reaver drank from his divine blood, to take back the power that had been stolen from him. Yet the Reaver became maddened, clawing his face. He began to melt, but not before making a terrible proclamation to the world.

"I am.... TARGUUUUUS"

Violence reigns. Arguments turn to battles, tempers are shortened, and no place is this felt more than Sanctuary. Crimes and chaos are rife in the city. The desire to brawl and riot are greater than ever. Warriors and philosophers alike emerge to speak of the changes, only for their debates to end with bloody noses and broken fingers.Only one group appears to be unaffected by these urges. The disciples of the Red Knight emerge from their meditations with pale eyes and an otherwordly calmness. They proclaimed the patterns showed they were victorious, and each dark an evolution of their thoughts. Premonitions of their opponents before even entering battle, and other strange occurrences become normalcy.

Amidst these changes, the council shifts nervously. Officials wondering of how this will effect the war on the surface and what is to come.

::[Kythorn 23rd : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

The squabbling of the Order and the Council came to a head today after the Mayor himself announced an impromptu public meeting of the powers-that-be. Members of the Council looked on with smug satisfaction as the oft-maligned Agent Zurello was humbled by Mayor Bresley himself. In a bid to startle his political opponents, the Agent revealed that Councilor Tasmir yr' Aqath el-Bakran was the driving force behind the late actions of the Covenant. The Mayor's response was to exonerate the Councilor of all wrongdoing, and place the responsibility (and blame) for the damage of Spellguard materials firmly upon the Order's shoulders.

This proclamation marks a new era in Sanctuary. With the Order and its many properties now fully divorced from the government, it would appear the Spellguard must now play by the Council's rules. The Agent seemed to take his dish of crow in stride, but many onlookers detected a hint of disdain in the magician's voice as he brought to motion a plea...

The Order wished to beg the Council's permission to declare war.

What followed were some hours of bickering. Councilor's Fadl, Beaufort, Ludstrom, and Tasmir debated the merits of a war with the mysterious and powerful Stewards of the Ark. Those sympathetic to the Order claim that the seizure of the Ark would re-vitalize the rapidly deteriorating resources of the Spellguard. Their detractors objected both on moral grounds, and perhaps also to deny the politically troublesome Order its former power.
  Speakers from the Covenant of the Pure, and the Housing Vaults both vied for sway in the assembly, while onlookers jeered or listened intently. A verbal spat betwixt Malark Amblecrown and Ser Idraen Markem unveiled the boiling tensions between the former Squire and his Knight. A drow - a drow! saw fit to take the floor!
 
In the end, the Mayor silenced the chaotic assembly, and announced that the Council would meet once more in a week's time to settle this matter of war.

Later in the eve, a battalion of Warders were seen slipping away into the Underdark... carrying with them a peculiar mechanism.

::[ Kythorn 25th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

A strange dark, rife with bloodshed, murder, and execution. The councilor al-Rahman executed a drow from the Lower squallor and the renowned Drakebreaker Arthur Black was beaten dead and left in sewage. It is said that for the wrongful execution, the infamous D'lathos of the Lower Fortress kidnapped the Councilor and held him hostage. It is said that it was only because of the rage (or heroics) of a wereboar among the Covenant that the councilor was able to escape. After a trade of blows, the Watch celebrated, sending one of their number for promotion.

One by one the news passed across the city. From within his sealed room, it is said that the Lieutenant Troff died of old age. Immediately after, it is said that the watchers emerged again led by a joyous Lieutenant Pond and newly promoted Sergeant Graham alongside councilors. Loyalists cheer with Pond's new orders. Patriotic enforcement, crimson cloaks for all, and a number of fresh experimental power being sent to the Watchhouse. News is yet to be heard however, from the Warders sent deep away into the Underdark.

::[ Flamerule 1st : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

In the dark a cruel cold iron casket churns. In the dark a beating heart of thoughtless mechanism and cold logic pumps the life's blood of the earth down artificial capillaries. An illusory kettle flickers to life somewhere, and whistles to a boil, and an officious looking man sips at fresh tea with a smile. It was about time, he muses.

In the dark, savage drums thrum the ancient songs of war. In the dark, prowling proud primitives pick through the gloom. They grit their teeth against the coming storm. They warm their stomachs with the promise of vengeance. They have watched the blood trickle away. Now, they will watch it flow.

Men of piston and gear. Men of flesh and bone. They sleep tonight, and dream of tomorrow's wars.

::[ Eleasis 1st : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Warders sweep bloody spores from the streets of the city.  Watchers bicker one to another, flashing notched blades and pelts of savage folk.  They are twinned in the Mycopolis, where cruel fighting men spin Watcher's helms upon spears and flick badges and medals along the lakeshore like stones.  Seers of the auld way, with mistletoe sprigs in their hair, foretell dark shadows looming  - they speak words of power and anoint their brutal kin in sacred oils.  Agents wielding complex machine-abacuses calculate the risks of the battle to come, greasing the iron joints of their war machines, processing the bloody mathematics of War.

A cunning warrior tears a blessed axe of polished bone through a panther's neck in a single strike.

A smirking Agent looks on as a stainless steel blade bisects a target precisely along the projected line.

The savage and the civilized prepare for their final decisive battle with predatory, murderous excitement...

And beneath it all, something monstrous and dark stirs.  One evil eye snaps open, and turns its baleful lens to mind the bloodshed.

::[ Eleasis 2nd : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

An ear-splitting shriek shattered the silence of the 'dark this eve, as one of the many horrors that haunt the world was finally felled.  At the hands of a party of adventurers led by the stalwart Radvul Stragat, and with the aid of the New Path, the Dread's greatest lingering experiment has breathed its last.  The Grotto fills with a hundred cheers and songs of celebration are sung in the Vaults. 

As the survivors are toasted, so too are the fallen remembered, each martyrs name bearing a new reverent title - Arlin the Wolfsbane, Incarjeras the Mad, Alethia the Wise, and Evron the Kind - among others, trampled beyond recognition, have given their lives to see a terrible foe vanquished.   Pilgrims of the Journey smirk smugly to one another, and share morsels of the gargantuan spider's flesh in dark, celebratory communion.  It tastes of salt, of the deep earth, but most of all it smacks of VICTORY.

::[Eleasis 2nd : Year 165 : 1387 DR] ::

It began with a call from Agent Dimes to the populace. The battle of Mycopolis had come, and Spellguard assets from across Sanctuary gathered to the gates. Watchers, Warders, Engineers, the Sons of Senuspur, Councilor Ingram, and a number of supporting citizens awaited their commands. On the advent of a tremendous wind, Commander Miller himself, alongside Animator Dhimani and Chief Ratapakt gave a sendoff, with speech of a new era and the retrieval of the mysterious 'Ark'. The forces marching with a large animatron dubbed the 'Exterminator Mark V".

Across the lake in Mycopolis, the Elders of the Stewards gathered. One among them known as Elder Vestri held a sparkling device in her hand, and with a magnificent light, the rest of the elders are sucked in. Rumors of a hibernation within the Ark. Vestri spoke close words with one of the remaining Stewards before departing upon a raft into the lake.

Agent Dimes' assault marches from Sanctuary to the ancient shroomstalk, decimating loose packs of tribals and elementals in their way. The large exterminator behind them crashing impossibly large stalks with a great saw and flame. Amidst the razing, a warship departs upon the lake with blades slicing angry ooze and strange creatures in the water. At its mast standing the impressive Lieutenant Pond, hands at his sides bellowing with laughter. Time would be short until a the warship caught up with the tiny raft. Even shorter would cannons fire with a flash, decimating the raft within seconds.

Before the Lieutenant could grab his vial of azurran victory, the waters crashed into gargantuan tides as the Beast of the Lake rose with Elder Vestri leaning from its maw. She called down a storm of poison, plague, and insects upon the ship. Its men sick, diseased, and reeling from bites of incredible size. Unable to fight back, the beast wrapped its slippery body around the ship and began to pull it down into the waters. The Lieutenant cursing his men and the gods as he and an unfortunate watcher jumped ship. Crunch, crunch, crunch as the beasts body wrapped around the ship and broke it apart. When only driftwood made it to the surface did Vestri and the beast leave to isles unknown.

The sight of the wreckage did not bring fear into the ground forces as Agent Dimes and the Dhimani Exterminator approached Mycopolis. Horrible green spores leeching onto the men as they entered deeper into the new land of Malan'qa the Ancient. The forces met with explosive ferocity, the sparks lighting fire upon the stalk-land. The titanic elder myconid released a number of catastrophic spells. Dangerous gasses subdued troops as vines and tribals ripped them apart. When victory was in sight for the protecting tribals, the Exterminator burst from the cavern walls and began to lay waste upon the surviving forces. To stop it was a single man.

"I will not yield!"

The man known as Gaesaeric among Sanctuary had reappeared after years of absence, only to be overwhelmed by the last of the army and the power of the Exterminator Mark V. The sight of the warrior wrapped in chains forced the last of Mycopolis into surrender. The troops cheered as Agent Dimes, Councilor Ingram, and Animator Dhimani stood over the rubble. An angry Lieutenant Pond emerging from the waters to curse his missed chance to mount shapechangers upon his wall. The Animator remained as the rest of Spellguard forces returned with wild treasures and a number of prisoners including the Unyielding Gaesaeric.

Druids and hunters who try to return to Mycopolis after the battle find a territory changed by technology and civilization. A number of Spellguard personnel remain to guide this harvesting operation, naming this acquired land 'Dhimani Ranch'.

::[Eleasis 9th : Year 165 : 1387 DR] ::

It began a few darks earlier with the return of a hunter. "Something is out there! Something is hunting beasts!". A group of citizens led by the Pride-Hunter Radvul Stragat and Councilor Orrell set out into the dark. Among the litter of beasts and prey the hunters found numerous creatures covered in an assortment of alternations and implants. The changed beasts however posed no danger to the experienced men and women. Yet with each den traveled to the aberrancy remained. Something has changed the wildlife of the underdark. Some citizens believe it to be the Spellguard's fault, a result of the Battle of Mycopolis that ended the Stewards of the land.  Others claim that this is the wayward work of the Exiles and the Society of the Ordered Mind. A failure to keep their experiments within their vaults. Vocal of the returning party was Councilor Orrell, and his claim of the Dread's influence.

This dark the 'infection' as many citizens have began to call it, has entered Starag's Rest. Commoners sighted a queer lizard in their stock. An egg-layng broodmother who had long been a staple of the men's production had turned a sickly white and created an ichor from its skin. The commoners begged for it to be removed, and the Watchers available complied. On Councilor Orrell's arrival to the scene however, he ordered that all of the stock be slain. Although the Councilor paid reparations to the men, the commoners who split the plot remain angry. Lizard-jerky is nowhere to be seen across Sanctuary.

The sight of the infection within Sanctuary has created paranoia among owners of foodstock. It is said that Mouldercrest paid over 20,000 coin for the protection of his beetle ranch, and raised the price of all of his wares. Merchants in Sanctuary have followed his precedent, food has began to rise in price among Sanctuary. The rich and wealthy hail the idea of new overpriced delicacies while the tentdwellers assemble new starving comrades in their protests. The poor have set out across the dark to hunt prey pure and unclean, selling the rich meat to established merchants, and the unclean meat to mysterious alleymen who have began to concoct disgusting recipes.

::[ Eleasis 10th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::


A long simmering dispute between Baron Ormulax and Magnatz the Red over control of trade in the region and their standing with Sanctuary appears to once more be boiling up as quarrelsome ambassadors arrived at the House of Governance to meet with the Council of Sanctuary. A tense meeting held in the public space of the House was met with bated breathe of onlookers. The two Ambassadors bitterly argued over cargo, trade agreements and attacks on shipments, the details of which are hotly debated and vary from the telling of one man to the next.

The Council is said to have handled the Ambassadors coolly but that tensions appeared on the rise. An emergency meeting was quickly called between leaders of Sanctuary, the results of which has not yet been made public. Wagging tongues within the House of Governance speak of a turbulent time to come for Sanctuary and that an announcement should soon be forthcoming.

::[ Eleasis 10th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::



Rumors abound of a pack of bloodthirsty elves cutting down "impudent monkeys" in Freedom Square.  Ordinary humanfolk are quite upset ... at least the kinds given to believe such rumors.  Others say that they support their pointy-eared neighbors, who are certainly much better than the kind of filth that this band has been cleaning up.  For a time, blood stains the space between the House of Knowledge and the Grotto.  Some folk don't like the Spellguard trying to interfere with the Council.  Others dislike a Council reaching for increased power to enforce its will when so many owe their lives to the Spellguard's rescue portals.

::[ Eleasis 10th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ] ::

In better time of a year, the people of Sanctuary are excited for the Great Game. Once a symbol of division between the Red Guild and Black Guild, the new game was open to the public with a number of handpicked candidates by Councilor Orrell.

The games came to a head with star players such as Radvul Stragat the Pride-Hunter, Clerk Lahanis Drusandyr, and Watcher Arnold Christianson from the populace. Alongside them many familiar faces from the city's many powers. The audience held their breath in the final grips of the game. When a great boom shook Sanctuary.

The boom eminated from the House of Trade. Watchers, Exiles, and Councilors trickled in to wretched smoke. To their surprise they found Jack Bundy, self-proclaimed Mayor of Sewertown and his companion with armfuls of coin. Behind them the ruins of the Sanctuary Bank Vault. The crowd pounced upon them as Covenant allies poured in from the shadows. It would be the feared drow D'lathos who would bring what was left of the rebel down to Lower with the coin.

Before the chaos could die down another explosion shook Sanctuary. This time eminating from the Workmill. The Councilors believed it to be another sabotage of the Covenant until the voice of a duergar rang off with a screech.


::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by Fort Mur Saboteur: Salutations from his benevolent Orbulence, inferiors. We hope you enjoy your goods exploded, charred and melting. Enjoy hammering your junk together by hand. The Baron never forgets and NEVER forgives insult given. ]::
::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by Fort Mur Saboteur: The Baron will be expecting representives from your city hovel soon, come prepared with gifts crawling on your belly like the worms you are. We give thanks to the Covenant ooze guzzlers for providing the distraction necessary. ]::

Admist burning bodies and the screams of workers, the sabotuers escaped Sanctuary. Leaving the Workmill a terrible disaster.

In the end of such events the voice of a familiar figure battered against the council:

::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by The Man in the Mask : Exciting times, Sanctuary. Blood still fresh on the pavestones here, men and women butchered in the streets. The slaver`s mill, destroyed... ]::
::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by The Man in the Mask : [A bitter laugh] Ohoh, but don`t fear. The Great Games will recommence in an orderly, and timely manner. We wouldn`t want you waking up, now would we? ]::
::[ City Sending by Oliver Orrell : If anyone wants to listen to a man who has yet to reveal himself publically, nor the balls to show himself in the raid that the Covenant just committed, by all means, go ahead! ]::
::[ City Sending by Oliver Orrell : Listen to a man that has yet to really burden the responsibility of running this city, a man that has cowered in piss and filth for years on end, speaking, but never really doing anything. A man of no action. A real proper coward. ]::
::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by The Man in the Mask : From one mask to another, Councilor, let`s be cordial now. Calandra`s pen scratches frantic ruts in a desk, time`s running out. ]::
::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by The Man in the Mask : How long until they clue in, Councilor? That fetchling of the fey has the wrong eye color, my friend. Did you think no one would notice? ]::

Time shortly passes.

A clerk returns from Lower with a sizable sum of stolen coin admist rumors of an arisen Jack Bundy. When the Council returned to deposite the coin, the vaults of the Sanctuary Bank were cleared. To greet them an angry mob of merchants.

"Sanctuary can't protect our coin!", "It is high-time to retire for paradise", "Aye, our funds are safer in Final Sanctuary". Under the nose of the Council the bank and its resources moved to Final Sanctuary with approval of the bank's owner, Roald Goald. Though the Council debates the decision made, Lord Hyram Sinclair has claimed that the bank notes coming from the Gould estate will more than cover the losses.

The people ponder of the terror such darks have become. Who holds the power to defend Sanctuary's interest? Will the taint of meats be temporary? Can the Council prevent war between the forces surrounding it? The people continue to ponder...

//A pastebin of shouts and sendings as this was a very long rumor: https://pastebin.com/2qhAsqRz (https://pastebin.com/2qhAsqRz)

::[Eleasis 22nd: Year 165: 1387 DR]::


Though time has passed since the destruction of the Workmill and Bank, the topic and what it represents has remained firm in the people's minds. With the aid of the self-proclaimed Mayor Bundy and coin from the Robbed Sanctuary Bank the tent-dwellers have turned from ramshackle malcontents to an armed and dangerous militia. They have began to commit various crimes throughout the alleys and are becoming a nuisance of merchants and councilors alike. In response to this the merchant conglomerate of the Gould Estate has worked to open a number of new businesses in Final Sanctuary such as the much beloved Bank of Final Sanctuary.


In this era of open dislike for the Council, no figure has become more controversial than Councilor Oliver Orrell. A doting pretty boy turned idealist, the Councilor became known for letting free a variety of small criminal actions and hosting a number of dazzling events to keep the mind of the citizens positive. Yet after the destruction of the Bank, he began to change. His judgement becoming more cruel, his actions turning from that of hope instilling positivism to violent dedication to his position. Rumors of murder, maiming, theft, and bribery have began to surround his name alongside his two bodyguards. Said to be mercenaries from the port, they have become an iconic attachment to the Councilor and the recent violence of his career. His actions have come to a head, as a group of tricky citizens and watchers managed to catch a wounded Mayor Bundy. In the midst of his final words, a dart pierced his neck, slaying him between words. it is said he grabbed the participating watchers and brought them to Lower Sanctuary for torture. Only one returned, a maimed and bloodied warder.


When a simple decree was to be made regarding decisions of the Mayor and his Council, the chaos proved too much for the young Mayor. With his shrill voice he made his first decrees. The surface campaign is in stale-mate. Only with the aid of special citizen driven campaigns will there be progress. The aberrant meats would be culled from Sanctuary, and become contraband. When he prepared his next decree his voice was shrill and weak to a despicable crowd. Amidst bickering of Spellguard enforcers, tentdwellers, and angry citizens out to catch the murdering Councilor Orrell, small William Bresley rose from his seat and began to throw tantrum. Shouting his decrees with nasty childish retorts against the soft chiding of his secretary. In his fit raising a bounty upon Fort Mur for the destruction of the Workmill offering whoever can defeat Baron Ormulax the Sword of Sanctuary. As he continued on a phrase ringed upon the crowd, "Sanctuary has never been the city it was founded to be". While the Secretary claims that this is a mere overreaction, the people know clearly what the Mayor's will is.


At last he turned to Councilor Orrell with burning eyes, and demanded trial for his various crimes. In reaction the tentdwellers began to heckle and toss fruit at the men of the Spellguard, saying that it can't be murder if its justice. Despite the Secretary's command the men continue to rile the crowd. At last it would come to violence. The Hooded Civil Servants began to brandish their terrible quills, sending the men to sleep before they were overwhelmed by a barrage of weaponry from rebellious citizens. The Secretary whisked herself and the Mayor from the House of Governance For a time, the maddened Councilor Orrell held his own trial with the defeated Watchers.


Before more executions could take place, a lone Lord Hyram Sinclair pulled over the Councilor's bodyguard and Deputy Gaspar Catrell, revealing his position as student to the Lord, and that the councilor be stripped of his rank. A trial would take place the coming dark, and Sinclair has claimed whoever could prove the Councilor guilty with key information, will be given a sizable reward.

::[ Eleint 9th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

During the recent few darks, many interesting rumors have begun to circle among the Sanctuary populace:

----

It is said that couple weeks ago, many drow pirate ships with their crews gathered on a hidden cove for a traditional 'celebration' of some sort. The exact nature of this event called "The Bath of Blood" have been clouded to most non-drow denizens of the Underdark in the past years, however surprisingly this time they left an open invitation for any remaining free denizens of the Underdark to partake in the event.

And so, many interested parties from Sanctuary and elsewhere made their way to the hidden cove on a mercenary ship and witnessed this bloody celebration. As the event commenced, it became clear that the Bath of Blood was not merely a test to show one's mettle on the arena but more a place to clear hostilities born between the various pirate crews. Later on a few sancturians were also drawn to the bloody arena to answer challenges issued by the drow and visitors alike.

Curiously, some speak how the legendary Master Tau Masemba was spotted there, silently watching the battles but not challenging anyone and none daring to challenge him. Although he explained little reasons to why he had left Sanctuary so abruptly, visitors made note how he was not wearing the colors of the Society of Ordered Mind but instead was armed in the full battle regalia of his late brotherhood the Stygian Armada.

----

The shores on this side of the Dark Lake have been quite quiet during the recent times. Only some ships going to Fort Mur can be occassionally seen passing the Blue Mushroom and heading to the Baron's Fort, loaded with all sort of supplies required for war. The trade seems to have significantly reduced because of the continuing hostilities between the Red Giant and the Beholder Baron. The stagnant state of matters is affecting everyone connected to the Low Road, especially Sanctuary who barely has enough gold in coffers to keep up with the raising prices.

With massive amounts of new refugees coming through the surface rescue portals as per the Boy Mayor's decree, Sanctuary is slowly falling into desperate times. When rothe meat is no longer officially tolerated by the city because of contamination risk, some fear that there may soon be ahead times of excessive food rationing. Indeed, many different groups cry out for a spokesman to represent them and their needs, and it is publicly known that the Secretary is looking for new faces to fill the Council so the city can be steered through these coming darks with proper leaders.

As if this wasn't enough, many citizens speak in hushed tone how their nightly nightmares have become even more dreadful and frequent. It is not uncommon to hear wild screams and manic sleep-walking in the inns and homes around Sanctuary but especially in the crowded slums of the Public Housing Vault and Lower where the most unfortunate souls dwell. Some beggars and madmen even tell stories of people dying in their sleep or disappearing during the night but none really takes them seriously.

The only good news lately in Sanctuary seems to be that the three major factions: The Watchers and Warders, the Exiles and the Covenant have not been involved in brash quarrels. Also the multitude of tent-dwellers have neither been raising any wild riots since the trial of the late Councilman Orrell. Most gossipers bet though that it won't take a big spark before it gets bloody on the streets again.

----

A recent discussion topic among adventurers seems to be the mysterious portal to the arena that once again appeared on the Crossroads. Many thrill-seekers and fortune hunters entered the portal and fought dangerous monsters on the planar arena for a chance to earn a prize - or die trying. Although there were many victors on the arena, a couple battles are talked widely even after the event.

Firstly, in a grand free for all brawl, an elven of the Exiles proved victorious and won a special key that supposedly belonged to the Imaskari, an ancient race that commoners don't know much about. Everyone seems to agree though that whatever the key opens must be worth a lot.

Secondly, a group effort made by the same elven exile, a knight of the new path and a priest of the Red Knight. It is said that they fought for an ancient artefact of Imaskari make, a dreadful weapon capable of leveling whole towns or maybe even cities. It seemed to have been depleted of its powers but if one were able to charge it up... who knows, it could become a powerful weapon in the right hands or nightmarish threat in the wrong ones.

----

Among the scoundrels of Sanctuary, a rumor whispers how one shady figure has been offering to kill anyone in Sanctuary the for the price of 100 000 coins.

It is not quite clear why the assassin, who some say is a drow, desires to take the life of someone specifically from Sanctuary but it is claimed he is the same one Mad Marge Miggsley was going to hire to take down Director Gould.

Whatever the case, all those who swear to have seen him personally speak of him with a trembling voice and none seems to doubt his ability to deliver the contract.

----

Of very recent interest is a group of ten or so people who arrived on the gates during a silent dark in Sanctuary. They seemed to have been sharing the same set of colors and arms, likely belonging to a unified group of some kind.

What their agenda is none yet knows but odd is that all of them arrived through the main gate rather than through the surface rescue portals - and none has seen any of these new faces in Sanctuary or anywhere else in the Underdark before now.

::[Eleint 10th : Year 165 : 1387 DR]::

The untended sirens of Sanctuary spring to life accompanied by the drone metallics of the Spellguard broadcasting system: "Unidentified entities detected across Sanctuary, procede indoors immediately or face imminent danger!"

What followed was a shrouding of Sanctuary from broken bottles of shades. From within the sound of whips, cries, screams, and bloodshed echoed through Sanctuary. When the darkness faded the people of Sanctuary found many of their friends and kin missing, and the corpses of Sorrowfeast slavers scattered across the city. The living slavers held gargantuan sacks with an abundance of citizens, new slaves that would feed the hatred of the Ogre Trade Princes.  The people of Sanctuary scattered across the dark to find their people, and were led on a trail to the Mound of Magnatz.

Slaves, ogres, and gnolls blocked the people of Sanctuary as the voice of the Blood Giant emanated from one of his many golems. The people of Sanctuary had forgotten their debts to the Bloodmage, and it was time to collect. For refusing to aid the Mound in the war against the Beholder Baron Ormulax, they would be forcefully conscripted and forced to either toil the mines of the Mound, serve as soldiers, or as reagents in the foul giants rituals. Of the crowd, only one man did oppose, challenging the giant's creations for the freedom of the slaves. The man was beaten and the will of the Mound made clear. Sanctuary must slay the Baron Ormulax or their people would continue to become slaves of the Mound.

New debates come to Sanctuary. A one-sided trade agreement with Ormulax, sacrificing trade for a suitable peace with the beholder. Appeasing the Mound with slaves to end the Baron once and for all. Some claim that Sanctuary will defeat them both, much to the chagrin of the less hopeful.

::[ Eleint 20th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

An extraordinary series of sendings:

::[ City Sending by A Woman With Sad Eyes : I know a tale of a young girl, who on a sunny morning met her true love in a library, near the section of Esoteric Netherese.... much hardship and many years now divide them, but their hearts still seek each other.....and.... and  that`s all. ]::

::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by Zyphaem Faussad : [in a voice thick with indescribable emotion]... and I know a tale of a man, trapped, who who dreams of his love still. My dear, if you have not already, depart this place of danger and find a place of absolute security. Word will come when I can think of what to do. ]::

Shortly after this was a scene of fighting in the Grotto as two Spellguard Operatives, one masked and experimental, descended presumably to abduct Isebel Faussad. And yet... according to rumor... the hafting Statues (known for her set of ambulatory magical luggage) succeeded in escaping.

::[ Spellguard Broadcast : Mrs Faussad, do not be afraid. We have prepared excellent quarters for you here, safe in final Sanctuary. We wish to help you and your husband. We are not your enemy. Do not believe the lies of adventuring rabble. Come to us and everything can be explained. ]::

::[ Spellguard Broadcast : This is an announcement from the Reformed Order of the Spellguard. The halfling known as "Statues" has abducted a person of interest, one Isebel Faussad..... it is imperative, for the safety of all concerned, that she be returned immediately.  ]::

::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by Zyphaem Faussad : There is little reason to keep to my silence now. Spellguard, harm a single hair upon the head of my wife.... and I will find a way to get my revenge. You will leave us alone! ]::

::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by Zyphaem Faussad : People of Sanctuary... long have I been... trapped here, listening to your sendings, but daring not to ever make one of my own. I understand... many have been seeking me. I have learned much, where I am, although dare not speak too much. ]::

::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by Zyphaem Faussad : I ask that you protect my wife, Isebel, wherever she may be, and with whatever friends she may have. I beg of it. And... I will say more when I can. ]::

::[ Spellguard Broadcast : The Reformed Order of the Spellguard only wish to help. [a pause] We offer ten thousand sovereigns for the safe return of Isebel Faussad, abducted by the halfling Statues. That is all. ]::

::[ Eleint 22nd : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

::[ City Sending by Council Courier : On behalf of Secretary Thervion, and under the authority of our beloved Mayor, let it be known that the halfling known as `Statues` and the woman `Isebel Faussad` are under no threat of exile, and any attempt to disrupt the peace of our Sanctuary shall be met with most harshly... ]::

::[ City Sending by Council Courier : .... both are free to do as they please, and shall be considered as under the protection of the Mayor himself, and any overly-enthusiastic supporters of the supposed `Reformed Order` of the Spellguard who attempt to breach the peace of Sanctuary shall be dealt with most harshly. ]::

::[ Eleint 26th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

The conflict between the two foes Baron Ormulax and Magnatz the Red of the Mound has reached new levels of savagery, with reports of wild skirmishes between their respective monstrous forces all across the Underdark.

It is said that one band of mercenaries, the "Bloodscums" enlisted a large group of Sanctuary residents to aid them in attacking a convoy of barges ferrying in fresh levies and mercenaries on behalf of Baron Ormulax.

Some  of the mercenaries, including the infamous "Dirzag of the Iron Halberd" and  the "Three Brothers of the Howling Canyons" were persuaded to change sides and subsequently enlisted to serve Magnatz.

::[ Eleint 27th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Rumors speak of a sad tale, a dark and dismal end for the old Commandant Antoine Trenada of the Stygian Armada.

For a long time the famed Master Tau Masemba, once of the Armada and later of the Society of the Ordered Mind, had been seen about the Underdark trying to raise a huge sum of gold. It is said that Tau had agreed to aid Ragnur of Clan Silverbeard in an assault against Fortress Mur in exchange for a contribution of twenty thousand. When Ragnur and his allied gathered the sum, they sailed to the Lonesome Rock to meet with Tau and hand over the gold.

Waiting for them there was Tau with all the gold he had managed to accumulate. Ragnur added his large sum to the pile and there they waited as various other small vessels arrived. Within each vessel another mercenary came to toss their own contribution to the pile.

Eventually a final ship arrived, and within that ship was the old Commandant Antoine Trenada himself along with the last Dominion Guard, Loyalist Trevor. The Commandant's old lucky coin was tossed in the pile and Tau explained the reason he needed so much gold:

Long ago, when Trenada was Duke of a Dominion above, he gambled the fate of his Duchy in a casino. He sought gold to feed and protect his people and, after having gathered a huge sum through the tireless efforts of his loyalists, went to double and double it again in the old casino of Traensyr.

Unfortunately, Trenada lost then, and eventually lost his sanity. He's been a wreck ever since, a mad and pitiful thing.

Recently, Tau has discovered that the only way to return Trenada's sanity would be to resolve this long-simmering failure and grant Trenada a chance to gamble it all one more time. The sum gathered was precisely the same amount as had been collected all those years ago.

The group departed by ship, Great Lizard Howdah, Gondola, Beetle Wagon, walking, and Smuggler's Wagon until at last they reached far and distant Nyxae. They found the re-established Casino Lhae'rosa waiting for them.

Accounts of what happened within vary, but all agree - Trenada's luck did not turn, and once more he lost at the roulette table. In the end Tau brought out his final reserves and put himself up as personal collateral, but they still lost.

Tau and others were led away to a life of slavery. Kedrian, once known as 'Specialist' Kedrian, did a final favor for the old Duke. It is said he uttered:

"Goodbye, Commandant. Goodbye, old friend"... before slicing the Duke's throat from ear to ear.

In a mad rage, Loyalist Trevor attacked the drow casino mistress. He was skewered by her guard.

Supposedly Ragnur was offered the aid of Specialist Kedrian and a few remaining old Stygians, but their efforts will surely be much diminished by not being able to call upon the services of Master Tau himself.

The only one who seemed at all pleased by the events in the Casino was the drow mercenary Zendrae who had gambled against the others the whole time, and therefore  made a tidy sum.

::[ Eleint 27th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

A strange scene in Sanctuary, as a mighty minotaur servant of Magnatz was seen carrying the slain body of the Mound's Ambassador Zharkmon from his residence.

It's said that servants of the Eye struck at the Ambassador within his home, succeeding in slaying Zharkmon, but were subdued by the Mercenary Rana Al-Saif before they could get away.

::[ Eleint 28th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by Messenger from Magnatz : Let all tremble before the mighty armies of Magnatz the Red! Ormulax the Eye`s pitiful outpost within the forge-works of the further reaches has been smashed, his forces within obliterated and his spawn slain by Gormauth the Great. A great victory! ]::

::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by Messenger from Magnatz : Vengeance for Zharkmon! ]::

::[ Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by Messenger from Magnatz : Gormauth wishes it known that the Red Banner Warriors - Gaspar Castel and Artreez fought well. Also present were the Scions of Nimiety, Zendrae and two companions. And Geoffrey Beaufort. And others who did not utter their names. All fight for the glory of Magnatz! ]::

::[ Eleint 29th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

The sound of an enormous horn (https://youtu.be/lklgA1x8UTw?t=4) echoes through the Underdark announcing a march to war.

From the depths of the Scamander come an army of trolls (https://youtu.be/6Cd3Mt2SDCw?t=22), led by their foul witch Magga.

From the pits and mines of the Mound, come a marching army of goblins (https://youtu.be/TQq4LjSF2rc?t=49) and packs of cackling gnolls (https://youtu.be/XkU23m6yX04?t=23).

Mercenaries from surface lands above and all about the Dark Lake (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLyaCgbEGIo) rally to the banner of Magnatz the Red.

They march to Fortress Mur, and the great gates shut. The Duergar, men, and kobolds under the banner of the great Baron Ormulax prepare for the siege (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zzgvxdPlUwA) with various instruments of war (https://youtu.be/7bFTw95pJp8?t=6).

For now... it is quiet. But soon battle will come.

::[ Eleint 30th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

The battle is finished.

The great monstrous army of Magnatz the Red engaged in a bloody frontal assault upon the forces of Fortress Mur, tearing its huge iron gates asunder. After furious and pitched battle, they proved victorious. In the end, the great Beholder, Baron Ormulax, was slain by the dwarf merchant-lord Ragnur Silverbeard and a small pitched force of elite Sanctuarians and monstrous companions.

[(Twitch video) (https://www.twitch.tv/videos/235195610)]

::[ Marpenoth 15th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Although the bloody war came to an end on the Low Road, preparations have continued on quite another frontier - the field of matrimony. Everyone on this side of the Dark Lake speaks how the Wedding of Magnatz and Magga is about to take place in the conquered Fort Mur on Marpenoth 19th.

The smitten and excited bride has been seen furiously collecting taxes of all kind from unfortunate travelers of the Low Road for the wedding decorations and she is clearly set on making them "the most beautiful and wondrous" wedding seen in the Underdark. In addition to the preparations made by the servants of Magga and Magnatz, the new inhabitants of Fort Mur led by Ragnur Silverbeard and Goblin Chieftain Rayguk have been busily clearing rubble, setting up decorations, gathering food and hiring entertainment for the splendid eve to come. 

It is said that guests have been invited from all across the Dark Lake and many are likely to come, for who would wish to offend the Master who is now both the Master of Mound's Mines and Mur's Port? Many are also seeking to be let into the weddings without a formal invitation, perhaps hoping for a chance to fawn the groom or just witness the whole spectacle. Whether they will be allowed to take part will be seen but one thing is likely to be certain - to come without a proper Gift or Offering is to earn the ire of the newlywed.


//This event will be starting roughly around this (https://www.timeanddate.com/countdown/wedding?iso=20180326T01&p0=101&msg=The+Wedding+of+Magnatz+and+Magga&font=cursive) time. It is likely better to be ready a bit earlier though. The event is open for anyone but one should take into consideration that participating in this wedding between two monstrous creatures may not be without danger.

::[ Marpenoth 19th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Magnatz the Red and Magga have wed, and by all accounts it was an eventful celebration.

The ceremony and gift-giving went largely as expected, however things took a sour turn when Magnatz read a note warning of a plot against him and confronted the Red Banner about their purpose for being there. It seems that certain members of the famed mercenaries had perhaps unwisely given up vials of the blood, and this allowed the Bloodmage Giant to compel one of them - Gaspar Castel - to reveal details of their purpose there and of the mysterious vial that they had offered as tribute to Magnatz. Apparently, the vial came from the surface and was to be used to potentially poison or weaken Magnatz and allow the Red Banner to strike to assassinate him.

For good or for ill, the plot on behalf of the Red Banner was foiled and a prepared Magnatz demanded the heads of those responsible to offer as gift to his new bride.

After brief fighting, two of the Red Banner were captured but two managed to escape. The Giant used his bloodmagic to compel the two captured ones, binding them in a quest to bring to him their former comrades who slipped away. He also is said to have promised a grand treasure to any others who capture the Harlot Rana or the Halfling Vick.

True to his word, those unfortunate Sanctuary citizens  sold as slaves to Magnatz were released and made their return to Sanctuary.

::[ Marpenoth 26th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

The distant drow settlement of Nyxae is no more.

The rumour spreads quickly across the Dark Lake that this refuge of traditional Lolth worshipping drow was recently attacked by an overwhelming Ghaunadauran assault led by none other than Temrariel the Slime Lich. Slaves and dark elves from Nyxae fled the city as it dissolved.

One strange twist in the tale goes that a significant war party of Lolth loyalists was able to escape, and has disappeared into the Underdark under the leadership of a warlord, a priestess, and a demon. Dark elf pirates on the Dark Lake claim that the war party is seeking the site of ancient Illythiiri Ruins where the drow of Traensyr are said to have descended to the Underdark many years ago. Or other ways to the surface world. To what end, no one knows.

Stories begin to circulate again and again about the complete abandonment of other Lolth holdouts in the Underdark. Some attacked by Ghaunadaurans, but others voluntarily relinquished in the name of some mysterious pilgrimage.

Meanwhile, Sanctuary takes in a trickle of slaves hailing from Nyxae. And the Reformed Order of the Spellguard recently celebrated receiving a large shipment of baublium.

::[ Uktar 2nd : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

The forces of Sanctuary led two forces into that venerable section of the Dunwarren ruins known commonly as 'The Bowels of the Machine.'

One group descended into the ruins beyond, destroyed a nest of Chosen, and then blew up the bridges leading into the Bowels, thereby preventing easy access to the Chosen that swarm beyond.

A second group solved a complex puzzle that allowed them to enter into some hidden chamber from which vermin across the Underdark had been entering. This chamber was likewise blown up.

The end result is that the Bowels have been (mostly) sealed off from the monsters and vermin that used to infest it.

Lighting systems have been switched on, and huge rumbling animations have begun to set to work - clearing away rubble, polishing off rust, and finishing sub-systems.

The work on the Machine continues...

::[ Nightal 1st : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

It would take a single meeting of powers to send Sanctuary into a terrible descent. it is said that it began with a trial.


Rumors of Statues' kidnapping and 'robbing' by the Reformed Order of the Spellguard circulated in Sanctuary over tenday. It is said from the librarians that it was Adept Cadyr and the Harlot Rana al-saif who had completed the act, others say that she had simply disappeared in a flash of light. These thoughts would come forward at last with a trial, the entirety of the Reformed Order were to be judged for their crimes. Before the Mayor's feet the projection of the Commander manifested, the face of Kyros Miller IV confident despite the overwhelming crowd. The Mayor raised to the public a scroll of crimes. Missing persons, murders, and enslaved, the name of Isabelle Faussad, the person stolen by the Reformed Order at the top of the list. Under Mayoral Decree Commander Miller would return Isabelle and bring compensation to the Sanctuary government for each of its citizens slain by the order.


The projection remained silent, the Secretary eager at the side of the Mayor to see the Commander pale and craven. "No." The Commander answered with confidence, its illusion inverting to face against the masses of Sanctuary. The Spellguard would not follow the decrees of a diseased and impotent Council. For long the Spellguard had served its purpose as its defenders and military arm. It would occur no more. To the shock of the crowd, the words of the Commander lingered on the ears of all. With judgement of the Council, and echo of the Secretary's decree in months past, the Spellguard would withdraw from Sanctuary.


When citizens left the House of Governance the city laid silent. The Watchers and passerby who once filled the city with vibrancy now carried cargo toward the Deep Forges. A sad Edmund Hart hammering the last board upon the Watchhouse door before grabbing his bounty boards. The silence was broken by a scream. From the gates the first invaders, goblins and bandits. Worming their way through the gates in a storm of blades. Some Watchers frowning as they ignored those they had swore to protect, others cheering as harm came to those who had marked them for so long.


The citizens had fended themselves against the first of many opportunists when an odd force had come before them. A large cadre of Knights of the New Path had returned to Sanctuary at the behest of Malark Amblecrown to witness the state of Sanctuary. Among the desperate populace raised a sense of hope that these Knights would protect the weak the Spellguard had abandoned. As more invaders entered Sanctuary, the knights marched past the defenders, making their way to Starag's Rest. Debate is held of what occurred within as the populace focused upon the invading forces, but rumors from displaced men claim that the knights and a gang of Exiles had abused the absence of the Spellguard and taken over Starag's Rest.


Before the dark could settle it is said that the same gang of Exiles embarked into the city to hunt a number of straggler Covenant pactmakers who had not yet been seen so far. Despite their absence from most of the events, it was clear that a large number of oozes had entered into Upper Sanctuary during the chaos of the post-trial. The rest of the dark was spent in a game of deadly chase, leaving both Covenant and Exile members dead in the streets. Some even recall a number of drow entering from the shadows.


The dark would end with explosions as the Spellguard dislodged a number of old bridges, ill-fitting for their new district. Toward the area of Serena Tower now lay a militarized zone where the Watcher and Warder personnel may find safety. The streets have become a hostile place to live, especially for those in the red and black. Spellguard paranoia has erupted in a level not yet seen since the fall of the Sanctuary-That-Was. Reports through the militarized zone go that many Watchers have already began to go missing. A sad watcher reported that a stray Warder was burned alive in the street. Despite the dangers being a member now poses, a large group of citizens have taken to the militarized zone. Hoping to one day earn entrance into the safety of Final Sanctuary at the cost of service.


Librarians have began to write that the beginning of the end has come for what is dubbed as the Sanctuary-That-Is. Theorists have began to write their tomes on the end,  being jokingly called 'grey-mantles' by veteran mantled of the House of Knowledge. The Scriveners however, are appreciative of these recordings and have taken them rather seriously, encouraging more to speculate on the end of all things. Even offering a possible reward.


In the end to all of this, the Mayor's Council lay fatigued. Its weakness has been irrefutably revealed to the entirety of the underdark, many whisper in fear that the Blood Giant Magnatz may take the opportunity to make demands of the city. With a forced optimism, Secretary Thervion has called forward for a new movement of Councilors. Offering the position to those who desire to see Sanctuary brought from its lawless disorder. Many believe this is to be done to replace the traitor Councilor Mekuria and hide the sour reputation Councilor Gerrard Vaughan...

 ::[ Nightal 5th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Gossip spreads of a very public dispute between Finn Mouldercrest and his wife Alicia Gould. Theirs was a political marriage that secured an alliance between the industrial and business interests of Roaldhe Gould and Finn Mouldercrest.

Once Sanctuary's greatest power couple with - some say - the greatest prospects for dynastic power since the Bresleys, Mouldercrest today was left dumbfounded and crying in Freedom Square. His wife screamed that she wanted a divorce.

The usual know-it-alls and experts-in-hindsight are saying that the marriage was doomed long ago by the long sickness or slumber of Roaldhe Gould. For its part, Gould's estate maintains that the man is not truly dead and is receiving the greatest care possible in his situation.

::[ Nightal 11th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

In the midst of a hostage crisis between the Spellguard and the Exiles, rumors trickle to Middle of a horrible tragedy in Final Sanctuary. It is said that a Watcher obtained a ring, seeking the pleasures of the Resting Heights. Claxons rang through the paradise and Middle as rumors go, before the Agents could apprehend the man he had killed a number of aristocrats and injured a dozen more. He was last seen running through Middle before the Agents pulled him to their militarized zone.

While the survivors and families of the slain were said to have received sizable compensation and special protection from the Spellguard, one victim has sparked terrible animosity. It is said that Alicia Gould was taken from Final Sanctuary and brought to the Gould Estate with a mortal wound. In a tragedy not seen since the sickness of Roaldhe Gould, the estate's representatives have been called from the underdark to speak on their future. The poor and tentdwelling snicker at this assembly of Fatmen, claiming that they will care for Alicia as they did Roaldhe.

Thoughts linger on what some would call a tragedy, or a celebration. Who was the mad watcher? What would cause such tragedy?  Some claim it was an Exile sabotage, even citing the man to be enthralled. While the Spellguard have taken a stance of heavy opposition to the rumor, paranoia remains in the aristocrats of Final Sanctuary.

 ::[ Nightal 13th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Todark, a most strange event occurred in Upper Sanctuary. The former Director Roaldhe Gould slipped down from the Gould Estate in a sleepwalk...

At first he rambled incoherently and wandered. Rumours tell that he spoke against Finn Mouldercrest, rambled about the other Directors of his time, talked about Dendar the Night Serpent, about light, uttered some words about Bresley, and boomed madly about his nightmares.
Then he fell to the ground dead, clutching his chest, in the middle of Freedom Square.

Some say Gould's words were those of a madman, clearly coming from spending years in terrifying nightmares. Others believe there was something prophetic to what he was saying.

One consequence of Gould's public demise is the crystal clear revelation of Mouldercrest's guilt. Already there are moves afoot among the industrial circles of Sanctuary to destroy Mr Finn Mouldercrest, whose fortunes have taken a grim turn of late. A race is on to take full control of Gould's property.

Another current of thought regards Gould's final words as a vindication of Ascensionist creeds. His awed words of a snake, of light, of a nightmare ending, and of Bresley, all contrast with the man's past tyrannical and imperial deeds. For the first time in a long time, there is a stirring of talk about Frederick Bresley, and what the legendary explorer would have done in the bizarre times that Sanctuary now finds itself in.

::[ Nightal 14th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Tumultuous happenings again enveloped the divide between the council and the Spellguard this dark. Many tell tale of combat upon the entry of the Watchers & Warders' forces entering the House of Governance, emerging with a convincing victory shortly afterwards. A large number of hostage were in tow, a few councilors among them.

Fortunately, it is said the evening resolved with a peaceful conclusion and exchange of captured watchers and supporters of the council. Many higher-level personnel of the Watchers & Warders were confirmed to accept the peace during a series of sendings by the council, the Spellguard broadcasting system, and others, citing a general cessation of hostilities.

Meanwhile, outside the city, some adventurers passing through the Grotto talk of significantly peculiar monstrosities that continue to prowl the darkness. The most common stories include pale elves covered in bone and metal, all carrying axes that cleave their foes in two, or shadowy worms spitting projectiles laced with deadly poison and magic...

::[ Nightal 19th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

Darkness overtook the city of Sanctuary. The Spellguard pylons fell prey to what was described as a mechanical defect for nearly a full bell as the citizenry huddled quietly in shadow. And yet, as the lights flickered back into place it was a scene of tragedy that would await them.

Mayor William Bresley, the sole surviving heir to the legacy of Melinda and Charles Bresley, lay dead in the House of Governance. It is said that a veiled drow pierced his frail body as he prepared to give a speech, ultimately fleeing the pursuit of those present and vanishing into the caverns beyond the city. In the absence of any answers rumors circulate the city about the convenient timing of the sudden outage and what part the Spellguard might've played in the deed.

Before the boys's body even grew cold Commander Kyros Miller IV arrived to the scene via a silent projection and strode calmly to the edge of the amphitheater. Secretary Calandra Thervion rose from William's side to face him, offering a tired greeting as the blood pooled by her feet. It was then that the cause for his visit was laid bare: The Spellguard would seek the immediate arrest of the former regent, for the crime of aiding Sanctuary's destruction. The accusation was met in turn with a challenge; a duel between the two wizards who once served as Operatives together. The commander accepted, stating that the duel would be made for all to see. In a flourish of arcane might the pair vanished, whisked away to some far-off battlefield.

The quiet from within the House of Governance did not last as sounds of further chaos washed in from the streets. All across the city images of the pair battling emerged, slinging spells with incredible skill and ferocity. Several fights waged in the same instant, with one image of the Secretary strangling the life from the Commander in the Square even as he burned her flesh from her bones on the Street of the Gods in another. Eventually it culminated in a spell that seemed to shake the foundations of the city itself, leaving no clear victor.

Eventually it was Calandra Thervion who emerged once more from the House of Governance to look out over the crowed that had gathered. Though she struggled to stand fully upright, her robes singed by spellfire and blood running from her temple, she called once more for unity from Sanctuary. Unity not beneath the Mayor and its council... but the Order of the Spellguard. With a flick of her wrist the robes of her office melted away to cinders, revealing the apparel of the new Commander of the Spellguard. Those present could only stand in shocked silence as she made her decree that the Great Work, a silence broken only by the sullen sobbing of Senior Animator Basian Dhimani.

As the remains of the broken council struggled to answer the questions of the citizenry other sprung to action. Within the vaults Malark Amblecrown began once more to prepare his men for war, speaking to any that would listen that the Dread were poised to take advantage of the city's weakness. Down in the sinking districts of Lower the Pactholders shared whispers of rituals nearing completion, and work yet to be done to uphold the three tenets. The bell of the Mausoleum tolled many times, with the most unexpected of the fallen being Savras, the Lord of Divination. With the stroke of a single blade, the future seemed less certain than ever...

::[ Nightal 26th : Year 165 : 1387 DR ]::

It is said that a small group of adventurers has set out this dark on a mission from the church of Targus. They have battled many Orogs until they have slained a champion of Gruumsh, and destroyed a shrine dedicated to him.

During the hours that followed, arrivals from the Spellguard's portals tell of fights and battles across the land of savage warriors against hordes of orcs, with many shrines of the Orc Pantheon currently lie in waste. The worshippers of Targus praise his name and his victory over the orcs and celebrate whatever number of orcs that have surrounded to Targus during the battles and joined his banner.

Whatever will happen due to this recent Targus triumph is yet to be known, and as the state of the gods remain as uncertain as ever, the Scriveners of Doom cross out six more names from their list.

The past few days have been filled with happenings of great import, it would seem, and on the tongues of Sanctuary's gossipers, the following can be learned:

QuoteFirstly, it is said, that the Covenant of the Pure, those that worship the ooze beneath, tasked themselves with a dangerous pilgrimage, to the surface island Ymph, through the old Way used by Frederick Bresley.

Little can be found out about the journey itself, beyond the obvious dangers that would have been encountered, but the happenings afterwards are well known across the Underdark.

Upon their return, it is said they brought with them a scion of the Ooze – a Lost piece of the puzzle that would turn the Great Ooze the most fanatical of them worship, into some kind of demi-God.

It appeared they were successful because, rising in a great tide of filth and ooze from Lower, finally reunited with its lost scion, a new and immense ooze rose, and crashed through the Canal, destroying what boats remained, before slithering and settling within the Dark Lake.

Therein, it is said, the newly named ooze Slp'glp'ytthx'grpt'grlpt'tnsslp'glubt'pssph'gluu'alshlpt was now complete and expand, growing and gurgling, to envelop the entire lake and with it, it is said, a ruinous City rose from the depths.

The Lake now is hazardous for any to swim in, and the fish and animals that live there are consumed and killed – only the hardiest of creatures were able to resist the ooze's coming and have begun to flee the oozy lake for fresher waters. It is even said that a Goddess, hiding amongst the waves of the Lake from the rampaging of the Night Serpent, Dendar, was in turn consumed.

This entire ordeal has caused great problems for the fisherfolk and traders who depended on the Lake for food and sustenance, and the rumblings in the Lower Wards especially speak of empty bellies and muttered curses against the ooze and its ilk...

QuoteThen, only days later, further tragedy struck the people of Sanctuary and their allies. A Courier, posted to the Embassy of Magnatz the Red Giant, spoke of a great Host of Dread forces, having ambushed and lay siege to the newly seized Fort Mur as the giant surveyed his prize.

Sanctuary patriots, Collective members and Spellguard alike mobilised, along side a motley group of adventurers, and marched to Magnatz's aid.

The collective army of Sanctuary fell upon the Host twice and twice were they repelled, with great losses upon each side – then, when they thought that all was lost, reinforcements from Sanctuary arrived and with a third and final push, the line of the Dread Host was broken and the way to Mur was secured.

Though this was not to be a victory to sing of, for the way to Mur was stained with more blood, as the forces fought their way to relieve what remained of Magnatz's host, a few leperous goblins...

Through all this bloody fighting, it was heard a great and titanic battle was being had beneath Mur itself, with the great blood magics of the Red Giant rising and falling against whatever lurked below.

Onwards pressed the bravest of Sanctuary, and into the depths, as they had done just weeks before, they descended once more, prepared to stand by Magnatz's side against whatever horror the Dread Host had brought to bear.

What happened below has been told and retold a hundred times, each speaking of different horrors that were witnessed, though there are some facts that cannot be denied...

They say that a scene of a great and titanic battle was witnessed, with evidence of blood and magic rife.

They say that Magnatz, the once proud and powerful Giant, was brought to his knees and lay near defeated upon the floor.

They say that a great creature, the like of which no man had ever laid eyes upon, had come as Magnatz's Reckoning; towering beyond even the giant immense size, with a body made entirely of brain matter, dripping with vile fluids and pulsing with foul implants, the creature stood.

They say that the Sanctuary forces ran to the aid of the Red Giant, who in his final moments defied the creature with great magics...

And they say that it was not enough. Magnatz, in the end, looked upon the creature with fear. Pleading for aid, even as the creature ripped off his head, the look of horror remaining as the creature consumed his brain.

The rumours beyond this point are addled, scattered, unsure – though there is talk of a hurried retreat, a heroic last stand by a band of Watchers and an Agent of Serena Tower, and the inexorable advance of the creature into the darkness...

Now is come the Reckoning of Man, all will kneel and be judged at the Monument of Hubris.

Quote
Once more, there is movement on all fronts within Sanctuary.

It is said that in recent days, what few Watchers, Warders and other patriots can be found about outside of the Safety Zone, spend their time lounging about the Grotto, swilling drinks, feasting and with their Engineer brothers, talking of their operations of recent days, though all of this is tinged with an air of dutiful sadness, as it is said that many give their lives with every inexorable step towards the Machine's final completion.

Along the Canal, where there once was the incessant sound of drumming and maddening merriment, there now is the cold, mechanical hum of new machinery. A new coolant system installed, manned and well defended, and with it, greater amounts of Substance churn out of pipelines old and new, spilling their filth into near every water source closeby to Sanctuary.

Quote
Madness reigned one night, if only for the briefest of moments. It all started with screams from the Trade Hall and with it, great bursts of dark energies and spellfire. The madness was momentary, but with it came death; word spreads quickly that some manner of creature was summoned, for whatever reason, in the bottom floor of the Trade Hall whereupon it began a brief reign of terror.

This reign was ended as quick as it starter, with word speaking of the two that were responsible finding quick death at the hands of spellfire from the hands of an Agent of the Spellguard, showing no mercy to fools who would meddle in dangerous affairs with little skill or understanding.

Quote
Further dark news reached the ears of Sanctuary's people, yet again, with word of the Great Adversary's movements beyond the borders of the city. Scouting forces report on the great creature, known amongst the fearful as the Monument of Hubris, single-handedly laying siege to the Mound of Magnatz, and without a care, delivering slaughter upon the rag-tag band that remains.

Though the forces of Magnatz are scattered, the Mound's defences seem to hold strong, with the entire Mound finding itself wreathed in a blood-red barrier.

A force of Exile Collective warriors, Spellguard and sundry sought to deliver a strong blow against the Monument and it's forces, yet after a swift engagement, those rallied forces quit the field, retreated to Sanctuary, and abandoned the Mound to its fate.

Some say this is a sensible thing, for there is little to be done against the Monument, whilst others decry it as, at worst, cowardice and at best, the surrendering of a strategic supply route to the enemy, who is no doubt now using the Mound's great Lift to bring goods, soldiers and supplies directly up from the Lowerdark.

Word then speaks of a small group of concerned citizens, making their worries known in a rowdy fashion, throwing fruit and rocks at those they thought to have abandoned the Mound to it's fate. This 'uprising' was dealt a swift and brutal blow, by a female Agent of the Spellguard, whom immolated and slaughtered the entire crowd of citizens who dared speak out against them, leaving their smoking bodies to the rats, upon the steps of the House of Governance.

And through all of this, people wonder of two things - what has become of Magnatz's widow, Magga and what truth is there to the rumours that a troupe of vicious looking goblins, skin as red as blood, roams abroad, of late?

::[ Ches 14th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

The evening began with an unusual sending, calling would-be entrepreneurs to the shores of Sorrowfeast for a chance at the buy of a lifetime. The prize on offer, it is said, was none other than the devious drow  Blathnaid. The few curious souls that came to see the price such an exotic creature would command found themselves joined by a large number of the Covenant of the Pure, rallying behind the furious blademaster Rhyldryn. Denied his half of some deal, the drow was forced to bid a fine sum to win back his female, much to the delight of several present. Many prepared to depart, thinking the spectacle was over.

As the gawping visitors made back for the docks it was the aged monk Ikran who spoke out. "The hour draws, and so it is time." Without a further word he raised a hand to strike one of the Ogre guards, beginning a battle that would rage across the whole of the market. The members of the Covenant put to the sword Marott and his Auction, slaying all within who had grown fat on the suffering of free folk. Though several of their number perished, including the very woman they came to free, spirits within the flooded alleyways of Lower soared all the same. Many a tankard was raised, always to the same cry:

"To Free the Slaves!"

Now, bereft of its commerce, the isle lays abandoned... save for a few wriggling oozes, left in acidic vigil.

This night the Union took back Starags Rest from the Exiled Collective and the dwellers of the vaults. The Union's long planned attack finally happened, however not as any could have forseen. Upon orders of their superiors to not let any harm or damage come to the Rest, a few of the Exiled Collective and their allies sallied forth and lost a decisive battle in the Square of Middle Sanctuary. It is noteworthy that the Knights of the New Path did not take part in the battle, preferring to focus their efforts on their "Crusade" against the Dread Empire and its spawn. Nonetheless the Union - led by its warleader Molgon - and its mixed allies defeated the ragged host, seemingly led by Sophonias Quinn, taking him prisoner and forcing a bargain for his and his host's life.

The refugees of Starags Rest, displaced by the news of the impeding attack, make their return with mixed feelings. Some do not return at all and rumors of families hiding holes in caves beyond Sanctuary filled with Hook Horrors or other deadly perils are whispered with some frequency. Some welcome the Union as their new protectors, whispering that it is a return to the ways of Old Sanctuary's Watchers, though others simply leave for the cramped spaces of the Vaults.

::[ Tarsakh 10th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

An almost forgotten figure has made an appearance this dark in "Middle" Sanctuary. Austanias Glademore, former Director of the Red Guild, wearing a magnificent golden armor and covered from head to toe with relics of the divine, was seen entering the House of Knowledge. He was accompanied by two elven bodyguards, each holding unusual weapons, which many assume to be relics, from Glademore's collection. A few moments after he entered the building, scholars, and visitors to the House of Knowledge were seen rushing out, claiming the elf has urged them to "be somewhere else for a short while". When an alarmed Blue Mantle scholar claimed the elf has reached the Patriarch while holding a sword in his hand, a small group composed of members of the Watchers and Warders, Union members and adventurers, rushed in, with Spellguard Agent Claire Chambers (Girl Genius) leading them in.

The accounts of what followed have slight variations, depending who you'd ask, but most of them mention of Glademore having a short conversation with the distraught Patriarch which was held back by the two bodyguards. The former elf Director then approached the Statue of Deneir and smashed it down to pieces with what many believe now to be a holy sword, as when he did so, a shadow being that was found to lie within it was no more...

As soon as the statue was destroyed, darkness appeared all around the House of Knowledge but quickly disposed of by Glademore and the warriors around. During all the chaos, the House of Knowledge was shaking with many books falling from the shelves. After a bit of observation, it was found that all the books that fell were history books and journals, and they all had nonsense and jibberish written inside them now. Most of the history written in the House of Knowledge was now no more.

Eventually, Glademore left the building, his bodyguards following shortly after, carrying crates, said to be filled with books and relics of Deneir to be added to Glademore's relics collection, or disposed of if found to be corrupted like the statue. He left, leaving words of inspiration and hope, that in a short while all will change, and the Night Serpant will be destroyed. As he did so, Agent Claire Chambers left her words that history is not important, as they will write their own history; That the gods are not important, as they have the Machine. There have been supporters and nay-sayers to both, and time will tell who shall not merely speak, but also act and deliver...

The Scriveners of Doom have crossed out Deneir from their list.

  ::[ Tarsakh 13th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

This night the Spellguard drove home the point that they have simply abandoned Middle Sanctuary to its fate with the formal declaration dissolving the Union and calling for the head of the minor agitator Molgon Merrybrew. A hunting party led by the thuggish Count Carilius Manzahar burst into the Trade Hall, beating down the one mercenary there, took his keys and attempted to find Molgon in his own chambers but only found the ire of The Merchants of the Trade Hall.  While seemingly such petty disturbances, these acts caused reverberations throughout Sanctuary as the last true "Watchers" of the Spellguard quit in disgust over the Spellguard's action and inaction. The Merchants have put out quiet feelers to find the most deadly mercenaries money can buy and there's gossip in the Trade Hall that any violence now will be met with the harshest of consequences from several new faces seen sharpening various implements of death and counting their coins. In defiance of a Spellguard that they realize either needs them, or does not care enough to punish them individually or collectively, The Merchants stand with Molgon Merrybrew and the Union just as he and his fellows have stood in their defense on occasion. The trade merchants mutter that the trade hall stands as an independent bastion of commerce for Sanctuary... (no freaks or monsters welcome!) ... and the Spellguard remains welcome so long as the path to Final Sanctuary remains open.

Not all the news of the night simply reflected poorly on the Spellguard for, disturbing rumors have come from some of the farmers of Starags rest that while they were occupied by the Knights of the New Path their soils were forcibly mulched with aberrant parasites and ever since their mushrooms, molds and even animals have grown strange, aberrant features. The most aberrant of these crops have been carted off to the war effort for the Knight's own consumption, but to the farmer's they are so disturbing as to be useless as food. With the Knights, even temporarily out, many crops have been culled and regrown and the quality of food in Sanctuary is already showing benefits. Many see the Knights as sad tormented defenders of Sanctuary, but more than a few point to this and the increased aberrant rate from the Vaults as a sign that perhaps the Exiles are forcing the hand of fate in only taking 'willing' men and women into their campaign against the Dread.

From Lower the news is that the Covenant is still as alien and loathsome to the common man as ever, though there's increased traffic through the Pissing Crone which has become sort of a rallying place for former Watchers.

A growing sense of hopeless unease continues in Sanctuary, its people scattered and unprotected, they've created makeshift bolt holes in sections of Dunwarren and adventures continue to find corpses of lone men and women that picked the wrong chosen infested house to try and hold up in.

A bounty stands on posts across Sanctuary:

Count Carilius Manzahar, dead. 5000 gold. Selection of rare magical artifact from the Merchant's Stores. - The Merchants

::[ Tarsakh 14th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

A series of sendings, much in a form of a speech, were made by former Director of the Reds, Austanias Glademore:

QuoteGood dark, my children. It is I, Austanias Glademore. I speak with you today on a matter of much importance.

To those who may not know me, [a soft chuckle] I was previously a Director on behalf of the Red Guild. I thought that through politics, and public representation, I could help and guide you towards the path of enlightenment, and inspire the hope of the divine within you. I admit I was mistaken, as the forces of corruption and distrust were well within the governance, and once I realized my errors, I have retired for many moons and suns, meditating and praying for the gods to direct me at the right path.

Now, I return to you, with an answer and the correct path. While at first, I was too blind to see it, the answer was with us all along. The answer is the gifts of the gods to us, in the form of their divine relics!
I have collected these relics for days and darks, and only a few days ago, I have shown you their power, with the removal of the darkness of the Night Serpent from the House of Knowledge!

This was only but a demonstration, but more is needed in order to protect Sanctuary from her darkness and corruption. More is needed before we'll use the gifts of the gods to get rid of Dendar for good!

In order to do so, I, no, Sanctuary requires your aid. I shall send expeditions across the Underdark in order to retrieve powerful relics, the most divine of them all. Once they are safe with us...oh, why to spoil a pleasant surprise, you shall see!

Any people of faith and holy warriors are welcomed to join these, and adventurers and mercenaries will see a nice reward from them. Listen to my sendings, Sanctuary, the days of the darkness are numbered!

::[ Tarsakh 15th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::
On this dark a battle broke out in Middle Sanctuary between adventurers and several extremely strong Orog "mercenaries". Everyone is a bit hazy on the details of why the battle took part, but a sleight from Molgon Merrybrews is said to the cause. After the battle a retinue of Watchers marched up from Lower Sanctuary in bedraggled and ooze crusted green armor under the command of former Sgt. Garth Shennd and agreed to watch over Starags Rest for a fair day's pay. The people of the Rest are relieved, though some whisper that they worry the Spellguard will retaliate against the rebellious nature of Shennd and his men. Notably, the Exiled Collective came from the rear of Starags and into the thick of the fighting, accounting for themselves most nobly. It is whispered that the green armor of the Watch is actually available for purchase in the Halls of the Merchants, though that's just a rumor... surely they could not be so defiant of the Spellguard.

::[ Tarsakh 16th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

For most of this day the ooze stood in agitation with dark ripples undulating the placidity of the Dark Lake. The agitation was on account of the peril of an elder ooze upon the surface. Though Strangeling devices in the vaults, many witnessed the events as they unfolded - a massive ooze, escaped from some sort of Exile Illithid device, ascending and corroding a great Dread tower pointed towards the stars. A dread master, acid eaten and dead lay in its path as the ooze called for allies and faithful across the world to defend it from a host of Undead and the attempts to recover the ooze by an Illithid Master belonging to the Exile Collective - when the battle had finished, both the great ooze and the Illithid Exile Master lay dead though some of the ooze's essence is rumored to have been carried back to Sanctuary. The Exile's covet this essence for the ooze's unique property to fully disrupt an individual's enthrallment and wrestle them back to freedom, upon whom they would use it is a matter of some conjecture - the king in Tethyr, the grand vizier of Calimport, some arch wizard, the Dread General Kingsley? 


The clan of Etorix, led by the mighty warrior-priest Cull made an attempt to seize this essence from Lower but was repulsed by waves and waves of slime. Many in Lower died, including some half-dozen drow warriors but there was losses on the side of the Exile Collective as well and when a trade of prisoners took place Cull and his ally The Count broke ranks with the Collective and set out on a new path, leaving the Exile "Warden of the Vaults" Quinn to carry the heavy burden of his dead comrades to their ultimate fate.


The movement of these great players in Sanctuary after such a long cold war brings a bit of hope to people. This is not bad news this dark, it is simply news and that is a refreshing change of pace.

::[ Tarsakh 26th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

It is a dark unlike any other in recent memory.   The forces of Ysinode meant to retake the city, and re-establish their routes to the greater Empire on the surface - and the alien intellects guided their Monument of Hubris to ensure this was accomplished.

Driven by necessity, an uneasy alliance was formed between the Drow of the Covenant, and the Knights of the New Path.  Led by Idraen Markem, Malark Amblecrown, and D'lathos Zyrzanel, a motley army of freaks and slime-worshippers descended upon the latticed ruin of Traensyr.  Fighting their way to the heart of the city, racing against time, this unlikely band faced all the assembled wrath and ruin of the Dread Empire in the near-middledark. 

Facing down Rhiannon Kingsley herself in the black heart of Traensyr, the warband accomplished a feat long thought impossible - the defeat of the Dread General.

Yet, the victory is not without cost.  The infamous D'lathos Zyrzanel was cut down by Kingsley's Swords, and the arrival of the Monument spelled the bitter, violent end for Ser Malark Amblecrown and his Knights of the New Path.  With a final word to his protege, the scarred knight leaped upon the unstoppable juggernaut, and was torn apart.  In their dying, the New Path seems to have come to its violent and bloody end. 

Traensyr is a ruin.  The Drow who once inhabited Lower Sanctuary's fortress are scattered and bereaved.  The New Path is no more, and Idraen Markem has returned home to Sanctuary, with Rhiannon Kingsley - free of mind, and whole of body once more - in his arms.
Some raise their cups and toast the erstwhile Director and heroes return, while others grumble of bitter victories, and of possibilities lost.  What Rhiannon's return may mean for Sanctuary is yet to be seen...

::[ Tarsakh 26th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

Todark, the restored Commander Rhiannon Kingsley and a party of former Society Ordinants led a mob into the Public Housing Vaults and purged it of monsters and aberrants. A trickle of monsters escaped into the Underdark, but the majority of monsters and freaks in the Vaults were put to the sword or burned alive.

This tiny remnant of the Society of the Ordered Mind now stands watch in the Vaults. There are calls for Rhiannon to assume the position of Mayor of Sanctuary, but it is said that her physical condition has deteriorated since she was cleansed of enthrallment. Some say that she can barely stand after exerting herself to lead the purge and cut down the Emissary of the Exile Collective. Nevertheless, the old Sanctuary is rearing its head amidst the dark and chaotic times. Monsters and freaks find that they are no longer welcome.

However, despite the loss of the Knights of the New Path, the Exile Collective cell native to Sanctuary - the rebellious illithid and their followers are not dead. Talk among informed patrons of the Sleeping Pyrimo suggests that a number of mutants have found their last hope lies in the eccentric Intryzz.

Meanwhile, Lower Sanctuary has slain and expelled the drow that occupied the Fortress. Yet the Covenant of the Pure lives on as well, amidst the rise of the Man in the Mask and his plots. There is talk around the Dark Lake of unusual movements and gurglings in the waters.

::[ Mirtul 16th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

Following a terrorist attack on a Spellguard facility, resulting in the deaths of a number of Watcher and Warder personel  which resulted in a bounty on responsible parties, all has seemed quiet in Middle Sanctuary.  Some of the rebellious individuals such as the halfling Kora Bramblefoot brazenly declaring that she would not be moved from Sanctuary. These small gatherings of rebellious individuals growing in size.

But early on Mirtul 16th an official proclamation was made from Serena Tower, interrupting one such gathering of malcontents.

QuoteSpellguard Broadcast : Greetings Final Sanctuary citizens and hopefuly aspirants dwelling in middle Sanctuary. The Watchers and Warders would have a public service announcement for all hoping for a better, brighter more hopeful future.  Recently there was an attack on a facility key to the Great Work. It is at this time we must remind all people that every action has an equal reaction of consequence. The damage these bright-eyed rebels without a plan for the future have caused has stretched repair crews thin. A number of power systems runing throughout Dunwarren have begun to malfunction. We hope to devote more manpower to these repairs once the terrorist cells responsible are dealt with. In the meantime you may experience occasional `malfunctions` around Dunwarren.

The Watchers and Warders deeply regret the harm and potential deaths this may cause to our loyal Middle Sanctuary residents and travelers of Dunwarren.

What followed is still a matter of some debate within MIddle Sanctuary. A large number of systems around the city began to malfunction with eratic electrical power. Defensive obelisks began powering on and off without warning. As the tension in the city rose, brawls began breaking out over the smallest of insults. The malfunctions came to a final, resounding end as a large conduit of power running beneath the Street of the Gods exploded, killing a number of elves walking the street - strangely absent were any of the usual humans who used to frequent the area.

During the chaos, one "Seeker" Alan Harcourt was seen challenging Chief Engineer Naomi Mekuria as she arrived to assess the damage of the malfunctions. The battle of the pair quickly escalated and became a running battle into the In Between and down into Lower. None can claim to know how the battle went, but residents of Lower fearfully whisper about the frightfully one sided conclusion as the Seeker hero was brutally beaten by a terrifying display of divine power and martial might. It is widely believed that he was dragged off to Serena Tower to be executed, another in a long chain of defeated enemies of the Spellguard.

The fate of Alan Harcourt was left unclear at best, many grieving his loss deeply already. Later in the dark a single sending removed all doubt to the fate of the "Seeker".

QuoteUnauthorised Dunwarren Sending by Alan Harcourt : [An incredibly haggard, broken, and raspy voice...] F-freedom... forever...!

Rumors and myths begin to form as to how he managed to escape - meanwhile people wandering near the Deep Forge complaining loudly about a thick choking smoke that took hours to dissipate with no explanation given by the Watchers and Warders.

Some say that it is clear that the Watchers and Warders carried out these "malfunctions" with clear intent to remind Sanctuary who is in charge, yet even as a large number of elves and adventurers departed the city angrily,  a smaller minority of the pragmatic or loyal to the progress of the Machine proclaim this the natural result of the rebels - terrorists who have brought nothing but misery in their self-righteous and ill-advised war.

In the dark since these events the Union has concluded their election for the position for their Sheriff - pointedly refusing the advice and offer of the Watchers and Warders to use their election system. Balthasar Bancroft has been elected Sheriff of the Union with nobody left alive to challenge him for the position. All eyes look to him and how he will lead the Union in weeks to come.

::[ Mirtul 22nd : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

The dark of Mirtul 22nd shall be remembered by many how a peaceful, quiet dark, sprawled into a dark of nightmares, death, and destruction. All spit and curse as they utter a name "Austanias Glademore".

Over recent weeks the former Director of the Red Guild, Austanias Glademore the Urbane, has made many preparations for a little explained "ritual" to destroy the Night Serpent, yet remained ever elusive on the details. Nevertheless he inspired hope and a youthful optimism in those of faith that would follow his vision for the end of Dendar, bane of the gods.

In addition to the relics that have been gathered for the last two years by scholar Ashani Mendara in Glademore's name, Glademore sent expeditions to retrieve powerful and ancient relics. From the surface, to the underdark and even into the territory of the Dread Empire themselves, relics were gathered by able-bodied adventurers and people of pious virtue.


Early on Mirtul 22nd it was discovered by a group working on behalf of Ashani Mendara that the shrine of Helm at the Barbican had been attacked and its defenders slain by a small number of forces from Ysinode. The former Director Glademore, distraught over the loss of his good friend, sent a band of adventurers led by Kora Bramblefoot to complete a task to bring a relic of Helm called "The First Blade" back to Sanctuary. The details of what happened remain yet murky, but what is known is that the First Blade was retrieved and the deity Helm fell silent.

During the dark that followed, many excited and overjoyed followers of Glademore were seen carrying hundreds of relics from the vaults of the former Director to the Hose of the Gods in Final Sanctuary, singing his praises. As the hour of the ritual drew near, a portal was opened on behalf of the Spellguard to Final Sanctuary. Many residents of Middle Sanctuary made their way to the House of the Gods: Followers and devouts, aristocrats in pursuit of a good show, skeptical scholars, adventurers and also mere common folk who wanted to catch a glimpse of the Spellguard crafted illusory paradise.

The ritual, in the works for years now, was finally underway. But it soon became apparent to all present that neither the former Director nor his followers had any idea what they were doing; Glademore stood in gleaming armor, waving a decorative sword above his head as his followers chanted little more than gibberish of those who had only a passing knowledge of what a ritual was supposed to look like.

However, perhaps to the surprise of all, something began to happen. A hurricane of relics spun around the ritual as one after another they flew into Glademore's sword, coalescing into something larger with each relic. Fearful and confused Glademore fled from the ritual circle as an amalgamation of all the relics gathered rose - terror swept through the crowd as the creature wrought chaos and death to all who had come for a miracle.

In the chaos of the battle few know exactly what happened, only that the Final Sanctuary illusory form of Mask came alive and stabbed the former Director Glademore dead.

The patience of the Spellguard for the antics of Glademore, his followers and all that he had done had reached an end. The immense "relic golem" and all the crowd were expelled, quarantined into secondary worlds of illusion. Traversing from one flickering landscape of exotic self-indulgent vistas to the next in search of a way out.

The struggles of the ritual goers finally reached its zenith in a flickering cave of darkness, doing battle with a seemingly endless army of shadows streaming from all directions. It is rumored that the shadows were the work of the deity Mask himself, or perhaps essences of darkness manifested from the Night Serpent, but others dismiss this as a simple quirk of an illusion gone wild.

In the final pitched moments of the battle, the relics of Glademore are said to have exploded with an exultant release of divine power, only by a miracle of a fading avatar of Ilmater were lives spared.

Sanctuary and perhaps moreso those who have managed to attain a coveted ring to Final Sanctuary real in the aftermath of the events. People gather at watering holes around Sanctuary trying to make sense of how much of what happened was the illusions of Final Sanctuary gone awry and how much was true.

Following the failed ritual of Former Director Austenias Glademore the Urbane, a few simple facts have become irrefutable. Watchmen have grown sleepy and distracted in their duties. Old wounds long healed have re-opened and begun to fester. Even among the shadows, thieves and men of dark dealings remark that their profits from honest work at murder-banditry and pilfering have been the worst they've ever seen. Even after all this, a few concerned scholars can be seen muttering to each other that Glademore's folly had caused more tragedies that are yet to be revealed...

So it is believed that Helm, Ilmater and Mask have fallen in just a matter of darks. All Sanctuary looks to the future bleakly, wondering if there is still yet hope that any of the gods can save them.

Many who have made camp around the dark lake these last couple darks have reported a singular dream. They stand at the gates of ysinode, their weapon dripping blue ichor, while they stand atop the defeated Monument of Hubris looking down upon a cowering Illithid. The night serpent does not touch this dream, and all who have shared it report that it was curiously pleasent.

::[ Mirtul 25th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

Over the last few days, travelers and scouts report of odd occurrences and behaviors of the creatures dwelling near Sanctuary, and across the Dark Lake.

In the crossroads, there have been more and more skirmishes between goblins and kobolds, the victors of each one desperately search for things on the corpses of the losers. Some creatures were spotted standing above a cliff for a while, only to jump to their doom a few moments later. Remains of rock and earth elementals scatter the Underdark, all magic is devoid from them.

Sailors and pirates of the Dark Lake report of no Kuo-Toa priests and whips can be spotted on Loblobliiiblop, with rumors spreading of them locking themselves inside the temple. The Duergars of Mutulakt have stopped much of their trade over the Dark Lake, instead focusing on fortifying their gates and defenses, banishing any visitors to their city.

The final oddity has transpired last dark, as the Underdark was shaken violently, rock slides and earthquakes torment those who dwell within. Many across the Underdark have found their doom, falling through the cracks in the earth, or smashed by the rock slides. In Sanctuary, old buildings have crumbled to dust.

As sudden as the forces of nature came, they have stopped as well, with the ground and rocks feel stable, yet odd to touch, as if something was missing from them.

The Scriveners of Doom have revealed new names have been marked off in their list of the gods.

Quote
Baphomet, Blibdoolpoolp, Diirinka, Great Mother, Hlal, Hruggek, Ilsensine, Kurtulmak, Laogzed, Maglubiyet, Orcus, Pazrael, Sekolah, Vaprak, Psilofyr

Laduguer, Deep Duerra, Kiaransalee, Selvetarm, Vhaeraun

Garguth, Hoar, Sebek, Velsharoon, Grumbar, Talona

The scholars of the Blue Mantle of the House of Knowledge tell to any who wishes to listen (and at times, even if they don't), how the new names mostly belong to gods of the Underdark and the creatures that dwell within, and it is a direct consequence of many of their relics being destroyed or stolen during Glademore's Folly, leaving them weakened, and an easy prey by the Night Serpent.[/i]

 ::[ Mirtul 28th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

Onlookers were shocked to see the famed Red Reaper, Agent Rykas Vaelkarn, return to the city looking rather haggard from a recent battle. Though rumors began to blossom, it did not take long for the truth of what had happened to reach the city. Carried in from a trader's lips it rans through the populace, spreading between tent-dwellers and in hushed whispers in the Rest:

Dhimani Ranch had fallen.

Where only a day before stood the monument to the Tower's industry, churning the energy of the natural cavern to fuel their machines, now sat a smoldering heap of wreckage watched over only by the myconid.  The ecstatic shroom-men were quick to speak of their freedom at the hands of the gentle and wise Spuffisthin, and his several human companions. Though initially it is unclear who could accomplish such a task, the answer soon follows as the bounties of the "Seeker" Alan Harcourt and the Pactholder Ikran are updated, joined by several new accomplices...

::[ Kythorn 5th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

This dark, a large pile of corpses filled the Barbican in an instant, shortly after a mysterious Pale Box appeared there. It is said the corpses were enthralled people of faith and holy warriors of recently captured six bases and temples on the Surface, each base devoted to a different god.

Knights can be seen throwing away their symbols and vows, some retired to the Grotto, while others offered their services as swords for hire. Gamblers complain and whine their luck has ran out, leaving their tables in rage.

The cold winds around the Underdark started to grow weaker, as the Ice caverns at the Windy Canyon start to drip and melt.  Many sparks of light around the Underdark faded away, the Underdark becoming darker than ever. And the magic across the Underdark has become even more unstable, almost as if there are no rules or laws that bind it to any sense...

After the Scriveners have carried the many corpses from the Barbican to the Mausoleum, six more names were crossed off from their list of the gods...

QuoteAzuth, Set, Tyche, Auril, Selune, Red Knight

:[ Kythorn 7th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

Rumors spread like wild of a cataclysmic battle deep in the Underdark in which the mysterious and oft-rumored of "Holy Fount of the Sacrosanct Waters" was invaded by none other than Druviax the Unquenchable, the sire of local quasit-nuissance Dingledar. 

Although many of the bravest of Sanctuary rose up in the defense of the Fount, they could not stop its thirsty rampage until one of the Fount's keepers - Karl Brandt - submerged himself into the waters, sacrificing his life.  In response to this act of sacrifice, The Waters of the Fount rose up and met the Demon Lord in titanic conquest, eventually destroying it - Druviax the Unquenchable's thirst was quenched at last.

And yet the Fount's secret location was fully revealed to all the Underdark's many dark powers. Perhaps all to its aware of its new vulnerability, the Waters of the Fount then traveled from the battlefield to Sanctuary itself in order to gather those who had the greatest need.

Led by Keeper Carmen Aquius, a pilgrimage of Sanctuary's most vulnerable people traveled from Starag's rest to the Fount's hidden shrine. It was there that the Fount, and all who crowded into its shrine to receive shelter, abruptly disappeared.

As to where it went, none could say.

::[ Flamerule 6th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

Rumors spread of a raid deep into the Lowerdark where adventurers attacked a caravan of the Dread carrying large quantities of supplies. After a difficult battle, the dread defenders were slain and many prizes taken.

According to some, a survivor - a human named Jonathon - was found locked in a box. Supposedly, this "Jonathon" was a prisoner being studied by the Dread for seemingly being unable to be enthralled. Jonathon was brought back to the Spellguard, and now remains as a "guest" of Animator Dhimani himself.

Also discovered in the caravan was a large satchel of documents relating to a place called the Gemgrind Mines, which is supposedly some kind of Dread mining operation on the surface where baublium itself was being extracted. For what purpose the Dread would need such quantities of baublium, it is unknown.

Given Sanctuary's desperate need for baublium, it is certain that the news of this mine will be of great interest to the formidable Animator Dhimani.

::[ Flamerule 11th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

Two sendings...

Spellguard Broadcast : Senior Animator Dhimani. By request of the Spellguard Commander, you are asked to return to the Serena Tower at your earliest possible convenience.

Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by Animator Basian Dhimani : This is Dhimani speaking. I will be delivering my little speech in one hour`s time. [a pause] I`ll report in to explain everything immediately afterwards, Commander.

::[ Flamerule 11th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

Animator Dhimani delivered his speech:

Quote"People of Sanctuary.

Few of you know me. Until now, this has always been to my advantage. I don't like most people. They are soft, incompetent, and stupid. Most of you reek and I find you extremely unpleasant to look at. However, circumstances are such that it is time we must become formally acquainted.

I came to the Sanctuary-that-was as a grubby nobody, just like most of you. Unlike most of you, I have found this place to be an extremely pleasing place to live. The Machinery that surrounds us has been a magnificent puzzle; to master the art of mechanistic-engineering and forge new pathways of learning has been genuinely the joy of my life.

From the start my genius has not been fully appreciated. I don't like ass-kissing, I don't like being nice to idiots, and I don't like wasting time. It took some time for the Spellguard to grow to fully undertand the talents I offered. But in time, after some gentle persuasion....

[his eyelid twitches]

... they did. I achieved rank and prominence, but such was irrelevant. What was more important is that I received the resources I required. Even during the fall of Sanctuary-that-was, I had a workshop and the everything I needed. And in return for being given what I asked for; I agreed to labor - unceasingly - on behalf of the Spellguard and through extension for the benefit of the people of Sanctuary.

It was I that reactivated the defensive illusory shields and wards that protected our Sanctuary. It was I that discovered the dhimanium refining process. It was I that designed the gas bombs that rid the ruins of the Chosen. It was I that built the animatronic weaponry that allowed the Spellguard to crush the Crystal fanatic cult. It was I that designed, built, and constructed an army of perfect loyal Animatrons that remains underutilized and under appreciated.

I have never craved credit, accolades, prestige, material reward, or important ranking. It was the joy of the work that was always the source of my own animation.

Yet here we are. The dhimanium reserves, once filled to the bursting with the abundance of dhimanium found in the Ruby Grotto, grown short. The energy acquired from the colonization of the Dhimani Mushroom Plantation is gone.

Sanctuary's situation is far more grave than any of you realize, and yet the Spellguard Commander grows ever more focused on the glittering foolish lights of Final Sanctuary.

Final Sanctuary has been an amusing experiment, but for too long has my genius been wasted on introducing new follies to amuse and placate the fat and rich!

[he takes a few ragged breaths, regaining his composure]

Information stolen from the Dread have revealed that they have a dhimanium mine of their own, far on the surface but within range of our Mythallar Portal device. To what end are they mining the material? I do not know.

I have begged and pleaded with the Commander for permission to muster Sanctuary's animatronic and human armies to conquer this mine. The Commander has informed me that it is far too risky a proposition; that to send forth all of our strength in such a risky mission would endanger our Sanctuary, would antagonize the Dread that seems content to mostly ignore us, and that would threaten the security of Final Sanctuary....

[the man's face grimaces horribly, as he grits his teeth]

The Commander of the Spellguard sees fit to continue to rely upon me in maintaining this place, but no longer do I receive the resources that I require.

The Commander of the Spellguard is weak, foolish, and lacks a vision for the future.

I, Basian Dhimani, was not born to be a grease-faced maintenance monkey.

I, Basian Dhimani, have HAD ENOUGH.

PEOPLE OF SANCTUARY.

I HAVE BEEN PREPARING FOR THIS MOMENT!

THE TIME IS NOW!

I, ANIMATOR BASIAN DHIMANI, DECLARE MYSELF FIRST CITIZEN OF SANCTUARY!

JOIN ME IN TURNING AGAINST FINAL SANCTUARY

JOIN ME IN OVERTHROWING SPELLGUARD COMMANDER THERVION! LET US HURL HER FROM THE TOWER!

FOLLOW ME AND WE WILL HIDE NO LONGER.

FOLLOW ME AND WE WILL DESTROY OUR ENEMIES.

FOLLOW ME INTO A NEW AGE!

.....

::[ Flamerule 11th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

What followed has been one of the most extraordinary and momentous days of Sanctuary's long history.

With the speech concluded, an order from the Spellguard Tower rang out demanding Dhimani's arrest.

The House of Governance erupted into furious battle with the vast majority of the adventuring populace choosing to side with Animator Dhimani in his rebellion.

Clambering into his animatronic "Fist," Dhimani provided temporary rings of Final Sanctuary and led a huge war band of insurrectionists in a raid against Final Sanctuary.

It is said that the rebels fought through any number of challenges in the flickering realm of Final, fighting their way through several defensive illusion-realms depicting the slave pits of Traensyr, the old Lower Sanctuary of the past, and the Sanctuary-that-was.

Eventually they reached the Serena Tower, where Dhimani succeeded in disabling most of its defenses.

The band passed within, and were met by the Clockwork Hero, Marshall Greer. Dhimani was able to disable the man's animatronic armor, however, and the old champion was helpless to stop the group as they passed him by.

They passed into the upper levels of the Serena Tower, where they met Sergeant Kayne Baalesman and a band of remaining loyalist Watchers and Agents. Outmatched, the loyalists were slain.

Eventually they passed through a scrying chamber into the secret, private chambers of the Spellguard Commander.

The projection of Commander Thervion was there to meet them, and she offered total forgiveness and resignation. She agreed to let Dhimani take over - if only he would enter alone.

He declined.

Some ancient defenses were activated, and the group continued. Dhimani's huge animatron struggled with the massive blast doors, eventually wresting them down...

They entered into a second chamber, and this time the flickering projection of none other than Stephanos Simms appeared, begging Dhimani to call off the raid. The huge Animatron simply stepped through the flickering projection, and set to work on the second set of immense doors.

Pylons blasted at the group as well as a stream of dusty animatronic defenders that Dhimani had been unable to disable, but the rebels continued.

At last the second set of doors were torn asunder and they entered into the private chambers of the Spellguard Commander.

Quote from: Narrative Shouts
The door is smashed open.

They enter the Commander`s private chamber.

It is dominated by an enormous tube.

Floating in the tube, is seen an emaciated and ancient female figure. She appears several centuries old.

Surrounding the tube you see four decayed bodies.

The remains of Calandra Thervion.

The remains of Kyros Miller IV.

The remains of Duke Barkely.

And the remains of Stephanos Simms.

Within the tube... is a woman.

A final projection begins to appear.

A projection of Spellguard Commander Melinda Serena Bresley flickers into existence.

Indeed, for within that chamber was at last revealed the true power of the Spellguard - none other than Melinda Bresley herself, sustained in life by floating in the Tube, and orchestrating nearly two centuries of Sanctuary's existence with her projections and scrying.

Melinda Bresley lived.

::[ Flamerule 11th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

Faced with the shocking secret in the depths of the Serena Tower, Animator Dhimani did not choose to cease his rebellion. Gathering his forces, he set to smashing the huge tube in which Melinda's desiccated form floated.

As the massive animatron pummeled the Tube, the projection of Melinda Bresley ripped through the adventurers - casting off an intense barrage of withering magic and slashing at them with her projected sword. A steady stream of animatronic defenders hammered the rebels.

After intense, furious battle.... the rebels proved victorious. The tube was shattered, and the helpless old woman washed out of it to the ground.

The ancient figure stretched out her hand to Dhimani, and the others... and whispered a few final words.

"Preserve.....

Sanctuary... must.... endure...."

And then, outside of the confines of her tube, the extraordinary woman - at long, long last - finally perished.

::[ Flamerule 11th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

In the aftermath, Sanctuary has become a shocked, frightened place.

"First Citizen Dhimani" has set to solidifying his absolute rule over the city. Animatronic forces have marched out of deep bunkers as an aggressive show of force.

While Final Sanctuary remains, none doubt that, bereft of the baublium (now ever more frequently called "dhimanium") that powers its illusions, it may soon flicker out of existence. Many of its occupants have begun to make arrangements to depart... but to where?

Some whisper in fear of a rumored campaign of dangerous conquest on the surface in order to secure more dhimanium to power the old Animator's many projects.

Whatever may transpire, none doubt - the Age of Dhimani will be an eventful one.

Stream of the Event (https://www.twitch.tv/videos/349932116)

::[ Flamerule 13th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

Rumors speak of the Animator addressing the people of Sanctuary in the main square, now renamed 'Dhimani Square.' He arrived in the cabin of a new, enormous war-machine of terrible power called 'The Eye of Dhimani.'

After issuing forth certain demands, now posted in the square, he offered great rewards to one who discovered for him something called the "Jewels of Dunwarren."

After some time passed, a number of sendings rang out....

Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by Zyphaem Faussad : Greetings, Sanctuary, this is Zyphaem Faussad speaking. I have few pieces of baublium remaining to activate this device, so have been rationing my messages, but I have decided to make contact in light of the changes that have been broadcast. I am anxious to learn more and, most importantly, discover.....[static]...wife....[static]....

Spellguard Broadcast : Zyphaem Faussad, this is Agent Isolde Mhaille-Vaughan, Chief Herald of the House of Governance. It`s great to hear that you`re alive and well! I`m happy to let you know that Isabel is also safe and under First Citizen Dhimani`s protection. She had been captured and imprisoned by Melinda Bresley, and the Spellguard would love to release her into your safekeeping.

Spellguard Broadcast : I understand you`re probably far away from your home in Sanctuary at the moment. First Citizen Dhimani would greatly like to talk to you about matters important to Sanctuary`s continued prosperity and securing the future of Man -- and, of course, to reunite you with your loving wife Isabel. Travel safely, friend! We`ll eagerly wait for your arrival at the Tower.

Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by Zyphaem Faussad : Delighted as I am to hear of the rise of Animator Dhimani, I await message from one whose intentions I could possibly trust. I will say this - I am trapped where I am. I can provide instructions about where that is when someone who I can trust in every way initiates contact. Don`t harm my wife.

Spellguard Broadcast : Faussad, before I was an Agent, I was a Theoferrous Knight of the Shining Hammer Society. I`m a seeker of truth and a crusader for humanity. The reign of Melinda Bresley is over. Your wife is safe. I just want to talk; to return your wife and maybe have some questions answered. We`ll be waiting.

City Sending by Azanahn Tafari : The Scriveners of Doom are sworn by sacred purpose to neutrality and, it is in the interest of the Sanctuary Mausolem to ensureyour fate, it is fundamentally unimportant to us if you ever contact Serena Tower. Please describe the desired means of contact if you wish to expedite your release.

City Sending by Azanahn Tafari : The only stipulation we pose is that you provide a summary of your life, to facilitate the eventualy obituaries of yourself and your wife... after the coming fall of the Sanctuary-That-Is.

City Sending by Claire Chambers : There`s no one in this city you can trust, Faussad. Least of all me. I killed half of my superiors because I didn`t like them. That don`t matter. All that matters is that I`m good at what I do- I`m good at the Machine. Why the hell won`t you talk to me? Don`t you want to finish it? It`s a masterpiece.

City Sending by Hakim Al-Wali : Faussad I have read much of your writings throughout the underdark and seek knowledge on great relics and treasure. If you have knowledge of where to find such you can trust me. I also have questions about Tezzeret and other arch mages on Ymph.

City Sending by Claire Chambers : I don`t know why Melinda wanted you, though I`m dying to. Just what do you know? Just where exactly are you trapped? Somewhere in Dunwarren, beside a sending sphere. Aheh. It`s a great little mystery, isn`t it? I don`t know why it`s one you`re so eager to keep secret, but I`m going to find you...

City Sending by Kora Bramblefoot : Kora Bramblefoot speakin`. I`m not one t`get in the way`a a bunch`a tall folks tryin` t`climb over each-other t`rescue someone, normally, but I don`t really trust many`a them t`actually do that. If y`need help, send word t`me, yeah?


Message Relayed by Messenger Girl : Uhh... err... `To this "Faussad" that all have interest in; I am the potentante of the cult of Dingledar the Defiler, who occupies the Fetid Throne of the Corogothian nest. Any who arouses such interest from my fellow human cattle as you do draws His malignant eye. `Know that he will find you before my other bovine bretheren; Know that he shall shall be your doom. Will you be martyr or victim, I wonder?

::[ Dhimany 16th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

It has been an eventful dark.

Some sendings of note:

Quote
Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by The Man in the Mask : The Tyrant is dead. Long live the Tyrant.
Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by The Man in the Mask : Fair dark, Sanctuary. Fair dark, Zyphaem Faussad, wherever you are. Melinda Bresley may be dead, but I for one am not prepared to accept the rule of our new `First Citizen.` Those who think the last bastion of free people can do better than the childish rages of Basian Dhimani, make yourself known, and perhaps the long legacy of oppressive tyranny that has ruled Sanctuary for so far can finally be lifted. As for you, Zyphaem Faussad.... you have my sympathies.
Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by The Man in the Mask : I have many questions these recent `darks, and I wonder if you are the only one who can illuminate these mysteries. I will undertake to find you worthy allies, and we will set about the business of freeing you from where you are trapped, aiding you, and freeing your wife.
Unauthorised Dunwarren Sending by The Man in the Mask : And a final warning for those who serve the new tyrant in red-and-black. It is time to seek a new path. And if you do not, heed this warning - beware!

While rumors vary, according to most, the reclusive Man in the Mask was seen stalking the Lower Marketplace, and attending an enormous gathering of the Covenant and other Lowersfolk to discuss plans to offer aid to Faussad and find him before the Spellguard does.

Curiously, some hours after, the Spellguard announced that they had decided to free Isebel Faussad, and shortly afterwards she was observed walking - dazed - through the streets of Upper.

Shortly after, Isebel entered into the In Between Ruins to escape to Lower Sanctuary. She had not gone far when she and her small group of companions were ambushed by the vile quasit Dingledar the Defiler. Unfortunately for the winged demon, he was attacked by a local scrapper and prevented from kidnapping Isebel.

Stuffed into an old jar once used to keep deviled-eggs, the dead quasit has been mounted atop the display cabinet of the Serpent's Hoard.

Isebel Faussad's location is unknown.

::[ Dhimany 17th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::
As the number of silent gods has grown, one strange exception has begun to draw the attention of the people of Sanctuary.

Indeed, many have realised that the gods of the gnomish pantheon have not ceased to grant spells, blessings, and miracles to those who worship them. It has not escaped the opportunistic, nor the former priests and clerics of dead faiths, that Dunwarren itself is a gnomish city - if svirfneblin - and that it would only be natural to pay respects to the gnomish pantheon in such a place.

And so it has become more and more common among the people of Sanctuary:
...to offer prayers to Garl Glittergold to bless them with luck...
...to pay homage to Callarduran Smoothhands in thanks for Dunwarren's protection and the svirfneblin mechanists who created it so well...
...to beg Flandal Steelskin's aid when working crude smithies and craftworks...
...to ask for protection from Segojan Earthcaller and Baervan Wildwanderer when travelling beyond Sanctuary...
...to thank Baravar Cloakshadow for hiding Sanctuary so well...
...to bless the Watchers and Warders in the name of Gaerdal Ironhand that they may better defend the place...
...to ask for inspiration from Nebelun the Meddler when trying something new, or making something inventive...
...to wish Urdlen's frothing madness and wrath fall only upon the enemies of Sanctuary...

Even among some humans, the wielding of blessings in the name of gnomish gods has started to occur. There is a sizeable minority of folk who devote themselves to the gnomish gods, as all other powers seem to dwindle and fade.

::[ Flamerule 18th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

It has been another eventful day in the darkness.

A strange tale spreads among the people of Sanctuary, spoken of most particularly by those who make their homes in the slime-flooded streets of the Lower below.

Seeking some favor from that mad patron of the Covenant known as Temrariel the Six Fingered, it is said that the motley band of Covenant-aligned active in Sanctuary were offered a number of tasks that they might perform for the lich in exchange for what they sought. Supposedly one possible task for the lich was the recovery of a ring, a memento from its youth as a young noble in Traensyr in centuries past, that was possessed for whatever reason now by the notorious mindflayer Intryzz.

The Covenant and a few of their allies (including among the Society) traveled to the Sleeping Pyrimo to see what they could offer in exchange for the ring. There, an amused Intryzz explained that the "simple ring" was nothing less than the powerful lich's phylactery, and that by keeping it safe and secure the mindflayer had managed to maintain an uneasy truce between the Master of the Depths of the Dark Lake and his sunken Inn for a long time. To give it up would thus be far too great a risk, as the illithid acknowledged that the powerful slimes of the Lake were a threat to the security of his home. Teasingly, the illithid suggested that perhaps they could ally together to destroy the ancient lich - he assured them that by destroying the ring, the Lich would be stunned and vastly weakened, and most importantly could be truly destroyed in a way that had proven impossible even for the old drow matron mothers of Traensyr.

The Covenant refused utterly this offer from the mpndflayer,  and so Intryzz bade them deliver a harsh warning to Temrariel - let no slime even darken the windows of his inn, lest the old lich face an end to its "dusty dreams."

With the message delivered, the lich was goaded into a foul rage, and decided that he would send his army - including his loyal mortal servants among the Covenant - in a grand sunken assault on the exterior walls of the Sunken Pyrimo. The lich explained that while Intryzz was nearly untouchable within the walls of his Inn, the external walls of the sunken dwelling were vulnerable to assault from the powerful slimes and oozes of the Lich.

Temrariel contrived to open passage to the distant corner of the Lake where the walls of the sunken inn could be found, and his mortal servitors led a huge assault upon them. Countless creatures enthralled or otherwise loyal to Intryzz were destroyed. A huge defensive monolith that warded the inn against dissolution was obliterated. Intryzz sent forth many of his most skilled gladiators in a desperate defense of the walls of the Sleeping Pyrimo Tavern.

Temrariel's army was far greater however, and eventually the last of the Pyrimo's defenders was destroyed. The inn was helpless before the huge slimes that slowly dissolved the walls as the mad-eyed lich and his many servants watched.

It was then that a mental projection of Intryzz appeared to address his enemies. The illithid chided Temrariel for the boldness of his assault, and then showed him his Ring - the Ring that the lich desired so to have returned to him.

The illithid then crushed it. With the phylactery destroyed, Temrariel was stunned and vastly weakened.

Intryzz's mental suggestion penetrated the dark waters. "Friends. Friends! Here now is your chance... to strike a great blow! Do not waste it!"

And, it appears that the mindflayer's calculating understanding of the whims of adventurers and folk of Sanctuary seemed to be of greater value than the great slime lich's power and necromantic abilities. For rather than rallying to defend the Lich in its temporary moment of weakness, the majority of the Covenant did indeed seize the opportunity to destroy the Lich with only a select few choosing to try to defend it.

Even vastly weakened, it is said that Temrariel put up a terrible fight. But finally, after great battle, the powerful lich was attacked by a single final psychic concussive blast directed from the Pyrimo - and, with its phylactery already gone, the Six Fingered was destroyed at long last.

The remnants of the Covenant returned to the sunken halls of Vhuln to find the crowds of drow petitioners and slime enthusiasts fighting amongst each other, vying for new rank and position. Without Temrariel's magic to sustain it, the ruins of Vhuln began to crack and crumble and flood.

Seizing treasure - along with whatever it was that they sought in the first place - the survivors of this terrible battle returned to Sanctuary.

But what now will happen with the "Covenant of the Pure"? Bereft of leadership and the patronage of the Elder Slimes, it is doubtful that it will endure in any form much longer....

Partial stream of event (https://www.twitch.tv/videos/352548370#%23)

::[ Flamerule 19th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

Last dark, the former Director of the now dissolved Black Guild, "Ma" Murik has passed away...

Quote from: City Sending by Clorinda Popova
Citizens, it is with a heavy heart I must announce that on this Dhimani 18, ex-Director Ma Murik has sadly passed away after a period of illness. Director Murik was a true public servant and gave her best years to Sanctuary and its people ...
... who will remember her with fondness and gratitude for all she did! Director Murik was a modest and reserved woman who lived out her twilight years in peaceful reflection. She often enjoyed a cup of tea with her close friends, who described her as `just the sweetest old lady`.
Chief Herald Isolde Mhaille will be organizing the funeral arrangements for Director Murik in traditional collaboration with the Mausoleum of Sanctuary. The Spellguard expresses its condolences to any surviving relatives of the late Director.

Many of the Public Housing Vaults have gathered at the inns and taverns around Sanctuary, some just met out in the open with drinks in their hands. All have raised their glass, and cursed the name of Murik, cheering for perhaps a better tomorrow, though with the reign of Dhimani, no one is certain of what the future may hold...

:[ Flamerule 19th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

In the depths of the Dark Lake, strange and sorrowful thoughts pass through the alien and ponderous consciousness of the Elder Slime Slp'glp'ytthx'grlp'tnsslp'glub'psshg'luua'lshlpt.

It its own way, it feels something akin to - displeasure - at the loss of its old companion, Temrariel Mafeyja the Six Fingered.

Long ago the Slime rose at the bidding of Temrariel, and it had enjoyed washing over the docks of Traensyr.

It had enjoyed absorbing its own spawn at the bidding of the Slime Cults that Temrariel had shepherded across the centuries.

The Elder Slime ponders this strange and unfamiliar sense of loss.

In a sulky fit of pique, it chooses to abruptly concentrate itself and rise.

It rises from the waters of the Lake, and there is a terrible sucking sound all along the edges of the huge body of water as it does.

The slime rises, and washes over the kuo-toa island of Loblobliiiblop. In moments, the thunderous ooze tsunami smashes over its old Temples and Structures. Idols of blipdoolpoolp are torn from their altars and fall crashing down. The intense acid stripes flesh from the bone of the masses of kuo-toa in moments.

Ships crack and drow refugees drown in a torrent of foaming acid.

Relentlessly, in its great quivering sulk, the Elder Slime smashes Loblobliiiblop until the entire island is broken and disappears in its entirety under the waves.

Loblobliiiblop is no more.

Satisfied - for the moment - the great ooze settles back into the depths of the Lake....placid once more.

For now.

Gradually, acid-scoured flotsam floats to muddy shores. Word spreads among those brave few who still navigate the Dark Lake that the old kuo-toa island - one of the few remaining truly neutral ports... is gone. Gone utterly....

::[ Flamerule 24th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

Rumors spread of a squad of Dhimani's Army that traveled to the cursed, dead Isle of Ymph far above on the surface lands. It is said that there they slashed through the great growths of unliving vegetation, treated with the Warlock Nightrisers of old Nebezzdos, and passed through the barren dry wastes of the isle's western parts. At last they traveled high into the Prophets' Peaks in search of an old tomb of (it is claimed) none other than Frederick Bresley himself.

The bones were taken from its distant tomb and returned to Dunwarren, although as to what purpose few can say.

:[ Flamerule 25th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

Word spreads of events of great import deep in the Machine.... the long-sealed doors of the Tramway Central Station were ruptured by a powerful bomb, the discovery of Zyphaem Faussad, the Jewels of Dunwarren, and much more.

Streams
Part One (https://www.twitch.tv/videos/355705575)
Part Two (https://www.twitch.tv/videos/355715561)
Part Three (https://www.twitch.tv/videos/355751143)

::[ Flamerule 27th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

With the passing of some darks, tales of recent events have become more clear.

It is said that the Covenant of the Pure, in league with the Man in the Mask, having acquired the 'Rupturer Device' from the hoard of the slain Temrariel the Six Fingered decided to use it to blast through the immense doors and gates of the Dunwarren Central Tram Station. After a slight misfire of the explosion at the hands of the scrapper Morro Springhand, a squad of Dhimani's army entered and the two adversarial groups put aside their differences temporarily when beset by a huge army of Chosen.

The two forces battled valiantly, but were eventually forced through the fissure and into long-closed chambers beyond. Within they found a great hall that led to nothing less than the Engine of the Machine itself.

Within the Engine, it is said that they discovered - at long last - that rumored treasure of the Underdark known as "The Jewels of Dunwarren." The Jewels, it turned out, were not gemstones... but rather a series of astonishing illusions and imagery located in a lightstone mine that depicted momentous events of the past.

As word has spread of the discovery of these huge new chambers within the Machine, a motley collection of pilgrims have begun to journey to the Engine Room and set up crude camps within. Many scrappers, tent-dwellers, wandering mercenaries, former residents of the Housing Vaults, Starag's Rest, Upper, Lower, and more have decided to put aside their differences and venture to this solemn hall of ancient Machinery and assemble there, waiting... waiting, for what?

::[ Flamerule 30th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

Another momentous day in the Underdark.

It began with the sound of a loud explosive crack, echoing through the Underdark.

The waters of the Dark Lake began to CHURN in an INTENSITY beyond description.

The great bulwarks and rock escarpments of the Middledark... cracked and crumbled. The acidic waters of the Dark Lake, of the Elder Slime that has slumbered there, churned those sections of rockwall that separated it from the great abyss of the Lowerdark.

The devastation is tremendous. Huge sections of the underdark have been swept away.

The waters flooded across this fresh chasm and poured in a titanic waterfall into the Lowerdark below.

The tsunami flooded into the Lowerdark with consequences uncertain. The middledark rumbled and churned with the intensity of the changes that have taken place.

Caverns and tunnels have collapsed. Thick acidic spraying mists have risen.

The waters have rushed from the Lake into the depths below. The waters have drained from the Dunwarren Canal and flooded Lower into the Lake. It was hours before a new equilibrium was established.

The canal  of Dunwarren and Lower Sanctuary remain damp, but have been drained. Much of the Dark Lake is now mucky and exposed.

The Lowerdark has become an ocean once more?

It is said that the Covenant of the Pure succeeded in their great mission. It is said that the man known as Marco "Bresley" and the Slime Sipper Tahver gave their lives in sacrifice to awaken the ooze and flood the depths.

It is said that they succeeded.

Much remains uncertain and unknown. Many speculate as to what has happened with the Dread City of Ysinode in the deep depths. Some, optimistically, suppose that it too has been swept away.

Some are more doubtful.

Twitch Stream (https://www.twitch.tv/videos/358094258)
YouTube Stream (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3b1pCYj018E)

::[ Flamerule, Shieldmeet : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

At last.

At last.

A trembling leper, long forgotten by the powers that be in Sanctuary, awakens this night to find that the itching rot that afflicted him these five years has faded from his flesh.  Tumors, sores, boils and buboes all give way to smooth skin and thoughts of maidens locked away are pushed aside in favor of other fancies...

To those who have survived it, a small mercy has been granted  - the Withering Curse of H'bala is no more.

The tale of how this came to be is scattered and sparse, but a few details are universal:

That the Spellguard and their allies journeyed once more above to the isle Ymph, there to claim - by some technological marvel or sorcerous trick - a key component of their Machine.

That they plundered the depths of Nebezzdos, unshackling prisoners long entombed there... and laying one of that dark cities Wardens to rest.

That beneath the burning light of the Red Star, shimmering close above the deserts of Ymph, they touched its crimson Fire.

...And that this Fire brought an end to the work of the Lichess upon Ymph.  The Island is empty now, desolate and picked clean of both its mortal inhabitants and the fleshy dead things of H'bala.

Upon their return, two small gifts were brought before the First Citizen;  stories abound as to their nature, some claiming they are precious gemstones or orbs of light or most quietly... that they are seeds of the great and terrible Doom Tree.

Whatever the case may be, Dhimani has accepted the gifts with glee.  With a devious smirk, he has ordered another two steps to ignition completed.

Whatever these Final Instructions may bring, they near their foreboding terminus. 

// Streams
Part 1 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POGDohJg7fQ)
Part 2 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4mKTWYcnSE)

Flamerule, Shieldmeet : Year 166 : 1388 DR

At a time of chaos, and uncertainty, a brief respite was had today as, following the recent cure of the Withering.

Long since hidden away in the alleys of the House Vaults, those of the 'Wither Pit' finally step out, free from the Withering.

First, they made their way to Mouldercrest's and ate their fill, then finding a guide, lead by a Weary Stygian soldier, they made their way to Engine Town.

Their passage to the Grand Hall was mostly uneventful, having only to content with a few scratches and bites from wayward Chosen.

However, on the last leg of their journey, it is said they were met with a strange sight. A small, polished-silver Animatron, with clean, well-kept, mechanical wings.

It seemed to greet them, and then with some manner of Lightstone Projection Arm, it attempted to converse.

It is said that it asked to help, apparently knowing the Great Work that was being done within.

The group entered Engine Town, the Animatron in tow, and as soon as it entered, it (with an almost childlike glee) set about working on the Great Engine, and busying itself with some work or another, that it seemed to know.

This same animatron, it is said, was none other than the Infamous Host, that in the Breaking of the Witch's Curse, seems to have been freed from its Withered, Infected Chains.

It was not the only happy ending to be had:

The nervous bartender Norrin the Duergar settles himself at the End-of-the-Line Bar, as if he`d never left the Wither Pit, cleaning mugs warily...

The weary Stygian rejoins his brothers, and share tales of their ventures since their parting.

Yors the Philosopher finds solace in conversation with Dogshit, muttering his hatred of the Gods in new surroundings.

And Dull-Eyed Bluto joins Norrin at the bar, eyeing those that come close with his usual, dim-witted stare.

More and more gather about the Great Engine, and it becomes more evident with each passing day that within those mechanized, machine-like walls, the fate of many is to be decided, for good or ill.

PART 1

STREAM: Here (https://www.twitch.tv/videos/363813603) or Here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q139_i2p_hI)

For 166 years, Sanctuary has endured.

At 12th bell of Eleasis 8, Dhimani's Army mustered in the Halls of Governance. The First Citizen had announced a raid upon the Gemgrind Mines, and declared that it was a mandatory assault.

At the appointed hour, all of Sanctuary's strength gathered there. Hundreds of shiny new animatronic war machines, fresh from the forges. The remnants of the Watchers & Warders. The Society of the Ordered Mind. Scrappers and adventurers and mercenaries and nearly all the fighting folk of Sanctuary.

Towering above it all, was Dhimani's newest and great animatronic weapon, the "Sanctuary Siege Carrier," a huge bull with a compartment large enough to fit dozens of warriors within its belly.

Dhimani himself soon arrived in his own personal war machine, the great prancing "Eye of Dhimani."

He spoke:

Quote
"Melinda Bresley was afraid of the Dread...."
"She did not wish to antagonize them over much. Some part of her hated them, but some part of her thought it wiser to hide."
"She allowed them to conduct their experimentations upon our people... she allowed them to send out their Pale Boxes, and their Collared, unknowing slaves....."
"...my policy shall be different. They are a terrible foe, but they can be defeated. And the answer has been here all along."
"I know what the Machine does. It is a weapon."
"A weapon that will ensure none can stand against me. A weapon that can defeat the Dread Empire in its entirety. But first, it needs to be completed."
"To do so, we need more Dhimanium."
"For quite some time, we have been tracking the Dread - learning that they use the substance themselves to power their pylons and spires...."
"They have been mining it somewhere called the Gemgrind mines...."
"We have learned the coordinates of these Gemgrind mines. We have found evidence of its huge stores of Dhimanium."
"Now, we are mustered to invade them."

He then paused.

He walked up to Agent Bordax, the quiet Spellguard Agent who had long been responsible for maintaining many of the Mythallar's Teleportation Powers.

Quote
"Agent Bordax. Are the coordinates ready?"

"Yes, sir! The mythallar portal has been attuned. It will lead directly into the mines."

"Very good. There is only one problem."

"What is that, sir?"

"There are. Too. Many. Fucking. THRALLS in my Sanctuary."

"What...?"

And with that, Basian Dhimani reached forward with his animatronic replacement arm.... and he crushed the Agent's head with his steel grip. The Agent-Thrall's head popped and blue fluid sprayed everywhere, instantly marking him indeed as a nothing less than a thrall in the heart of Sanctuary.

Dhimani turned to face the crowd, grinning, as he worked to change the coordinates in the Mythallar Portal device...

Quote
"The Gemgrind mines await us, it's true."

"Their trap awaits us, it's true."

"So I have a better idea."

"Let's go straight to the problem of all of this."

"Sanctuary..."

"The time for HIDING is over. Ysinode is vulnerable, more vulnerable than it EVER has been. It possesses huge stores of dhimanium in its vault. Huge quantities of gold."

"Sanctuary, let's go to Ysinode."

"They are not EXPECTING US."

"Sanctuary! Prepare yourselves. The ELDER BRAIN OF YSINODE AWAITS YOU! Here, HERE is our chance to SHOW THEM WHAT WE CAN DO."

And with that, Animator Dhimani climbed up into its Eye... and, to the sounds of cheers and shouts and panicked mumblings, Sanctuary's army passed into the assault portal and prepared their assault.

Ysinode and its Elder Brain awaited them.[/I]

PART 2

The attack on Ysinode was a battle like none other.

The Elder Brain of Ysinode had been forced to erect a psionic shield to protect its city from the great tsunami of ooze that had filled the Lowerdark some days earlier.  The effort was no doubt taxing even for its extraordinary mental powers.

Cut off from the surface, much of its forces had been diminished or drowned in the recent calamity.

Ysinode was certainly far more vulnerable than it had ever been, and yet....

It was still a terribly dangerous place.

The forces of Sanctuary raged against it, facing all kinds of new experimental monsters and terrible defenders. It was a war of animatronic machinery and the best of the brave free peoples of the world against the most elite of the Dread's monsters.

The battle raged across the Plains of Dread, through the obelisk-defended superstructure of Ysinode's gates, and into its very streets and spires.

The battle raged into the heart of Ysinode.  And as they approached the Elder Brain's sanctum, a sending from Sanctuary rang out:

"ALERT! ALERT! Thralls from the Dread have seized the House of Governance - they've taken the mythallar chamber - They have linked it to the Dread Empire's armies! THE DREAD ARE INVADING. HURRY BACK TO SAVE US!"

And so, the Army of Sanctuary was faced with a terrible choice. Do they return to try to save their home? Or do they continue to press the assault and perhaps slay the Elder Brain itself?

They decided to continue their assault.

One by one, they entered and destroyed the Shield Generator buildings that defended the Brain's sanctum.

The Siege Carrier then blasted a hole through the walls of the sanctum.

The horrors they found within are almost beyond description.

But, in the end, after terrible loss of life... the Elder Brain was slain, its pleading psionic shrieks and cries of horror cut short as its huge quivering bulk was pulverised and ruined.

PART 3

Although a great victory had been struck in the depths of the Lowerdark, Sanctuary had been left undefended and - with its powerful portal-device linked directly to forces of the Dread that existed elsewhere - was soon overwhelmed.

In Sanctuary, abject scenes of horror play out:

Quote
--- The Grotto fills with shrieking civilians, and old Hoage Smeed has bolted down the hatch... outside the Freedom Square is slick with blood. Dread Thralls run wild on the streets, butchering wailing mothers and dashing their babes against the cobbles. The House of Governance is overwhelmed. ---

--- The House of Knowledge is aflame.. its scholars, those with any talent in the Arcane, usher what survivors they can into the looming bulk of Serena Tower...  ---

--- Sending stones crackle with the wailing of dozens, each new cry for aid cut short with the sound of blades. ---

--- ...The Grotto is overwhelmed. A hulking Umber gores the hatch open, and its ever friendly patrons die bravely - but futilely. ---

--- Smeed sinks a cleaver into the beast, only to be decapitated by a bite.  ---

--- Jarson Coddle claws at the doors behind, spilling sweetpie.. cut down in a flash. ---

--- The Seer of the House of Trade sees her death -- but with no real talent for prediction, she weaves left... when she ought to have rolled right. ---

--- Serena Tower emits a low frequency hum - a final civilian is ushered inside, and then - forgotten for a decade - its old Shield fires to life. A shimmering wall of force and lightning blasts the Dread host as they attempt the Tower`s climb. Whatever skeleton crew remains must have re-birthed the defenses that ensured survival for the Sanctuary that was. ---

--- Serena Tower is a lighthouse beacon atop a sea of madness. Again and again its wards are tested, and again and again they hold... but beyond... Sanctuary is a killing field. The work is methodical now. Precise. Each tenement of the Vaults is emptied, burned, and its meek dwellers enthralled. ---

--- Denizens throughout the Dark feel, as the Elder Brain psionically SCREAM in TERROR, before it is at long last, abruptly silenced ---

--- In Sanctuary, Serena Tower holds behind its flickering shield. The rest of the ruined city is silent... save for one sound. The sound of a wail - twin to the dying shriek of Ysinode`s Elder Brain. It rises from the throats of all thralls present. Their dull peace is broken. ---

--- They fly into a rage. And something thunders behind them... something forgotten.. much to the woe of all. The Monument of Hubris. Now, bereft of its piloting Elder, towers over the smouldering rubble, and raises a gargantuan grey matter fits. It batters the Shield of Serena Tower -- and with a groaning effort -- punches through...
It tears the Tower Serena in two. ---

--- The last survivors meet their doom with all the dignity of Commander Simms, facing down the maw of destiny. ---

But Sanctuary...

does not endure.

PART 4

The survivors of the attack on Sanctuary returned in the Carrier Animatron to find their home had been devastated.

Strange aberrant growths have sprouted from within the House of Governance, and a steady stream of experimental "Bloats" - creatures that oddly resemble old dwellers of Sanctuary's past - have begun to emerge and wander aimlessly through the streets. It is unknown what faction of the Dread is responsible for this peculiar horror.

It is unknown what has happened to the Monument of Hubris, that mighty super-weapon of the Dread.

It is known that all of Sanctuary's survivors have traveled deep into the Machine, there to join the motley camp that has come to be called Enginetown.

What remains of Sanctuary has collected there, and some among them have assembled a hasty memorial. It reads:

Quote
Those who died to slay the Elder Brain of Ysinode

Watchers and Warders:

   Operative-Animator Claire Chambers
Agent 'Chief Herald' Isolde Mhaile
Sergeant Marcus 'Rusty' Goodman
Sergeant Westra 'Nothing Else' Hornraven
Warder-Adept 'Titles' Melissa Hardden
Watcher Waylon 'Forks' Burke
   Watcher Marcus 'Greater' Bryant
   Engineer Jebeddoc Sparklegem
   Watcher Holan Asen
   Watcher Athazar Oakrum
   

Ordinants and Oathsworn:

   Ordinant Davis Stagerdt
   Ordinant Rante Addams
   Ordinant Thavic Darstan
   Ordinant Mulonde Echo
        Ordinant Lothor Eardmarck
   Oathsworn Cecily 'Silver' Morasha
   Oathsworn Ivar Ragnarsson
   Oathsworn Penello Haventree


Citizens and Adventurers:

   Soto 'Survivor' Kon
   Gascoid Huntstag
   Miira Te'lissen
   Feyre Elenth
   Qattor Hazz
   Ordmor Cogswoggle
Mungo Hackney
Corlane Barrencrown
Golg Worgshurk
Ivassar Undolir
Scrivener Garenth Irkrule
Rhelnar Tyletho
Oshur 'The Brains' Aurumvarr
Ulf 'The Fists' Karogaev
Marshall Winter
Stein
Da'jaga Tk'kru

Divicacus Ap Brennus
Silari Moadi of Avoreen
Safira Havengem
Warden Kora 'Bramble' Bramblefoot of Yondalla
'Nails'
Ayrissa
Gyxtra 'Bird' Valix
Ikran
Shreya Berhta
Ramazir Al-Maladin, Protector of the Faussauds
Ianovar Blake
Mehalia

The survivors of all the fighting are left to consider their uncertain future.

Will the Dread forces move from the ruins of Sanctuary to hunt them deep in the Machine?

Will the Chosen muster once more?

And where is the key to the Ignition Switch of the Machine?

And if it's turned on, what will it do?

STREAM: Here (https://www.twitch.tv/videos/363813603) or Here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q139_i2p_hI)

And what happened to First Citizen Dhimani?

It is said that after the raid on Ysinode the First Citizen - conspicuously absent from  the most dangerous parts of the battle - returned to a devastated Sanctuary and gazed with supreme indifference upon the scenes of murder and destruction of the city in which he had lived.

He, like so many others, then entered into the Machine and found refuge in Enginetown.

After supervising the delivery of huge quantities of "dhimanium" into the Engine's fuel receptacles, he dismounted from his Eye and went to the Ignition Switch.

Smugly producing his own specially designed-key mounted upon a finger of his animatronic hand, he declared that he himself would be the Key to the Machine.

When he inserted his 'key' into the Ignition Switch, however, something strange happened.

Something - or someone - seemed to take control over the proud Animator's animatronic arm, and caused his hand to lift slowly.... and throttle himself to death.

Many believe that somehow  some ghostly remnants of Melinda Serena Bresley lives on in the great Machine, and that - filled with fury and sorrow at the fall of Sanctuary - she found her revenge upon the old Animator for failing to ensure that Sanctuary endured.

Quote::[ Eleasis 12th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

In the darkness far beyond, strange lights flicker upon a sickening world. Floating `midst the void, the terrible sinuous immensity that is that primordial devourer of gods.... the manifestation of the apocalypse itself....that great beast known as Dendar the Night Maiden....

.... dreams. She dreams in some strange slumber.

Long glutted upon forgotten nightmares, the Night Serpent dreams her own.

Her body writhes in the agony of her terrible dream.

She tenses - and awakens - hungry. The dream.... the vision?.... sends her into a frenzy.

The serpent hunts, and comes at last upon the form of Oghma, Lord of Knowledge. As the coils of the Nightmaiden wrap around the God of Knowing, he whispers to her a final revelation.... before he is silenced.

The Night Serpent is aroused to an even greater fury. She begins her killing once more. A terrible, wrathful feast.

All characters, depending upon their sensitivity to matters of the divine, begin to sense the terrible silences that follow during the following hours.

As the remaining gods go silent... it is clear the world itself has begun to die. Plant life, everywhere, starts to wilt and fade. Simple animals and insects begin to collapse into some strange lethargy.

// If your character is a cleric with full spell-casting abilities, please contact a DM //

:[ Eleasis 13th : Year 166 : 1388 DR ]::

There is, abruptly, the sound of a terrible horn (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzY099ihULs) that echoes from the House of Governance.

Then, as your sending stones crackle, a sending:

Quote
"Greetings, monkeys. Allow me to introduce myself - I am Maszethilb, and long have been I tasked with the supervision of your society. You have been an interesting experiment, a place where we could study your kind in its natural form without the exertion of direct control. But -

You have broken from the limits imposed on you. You have acted wild and irregular. You have murdered Elder Ysinode, and for this you have been punished.

Now you hide deep in your Machine, protected by your Bull and little else. This we know well. Now you toy with things you do not understand

They will not save you. It is time to put your toys away. Abandon your Machine, de-activate your bull, and throw your weapons into the abyss. Your world is dying, your kind are so few now.... help me help you by preserving your kind in special new ecospheres I will design for you.

It is time to give up. Emerge from the Machine and surrender yourselves. If you do not - in twenty four hours, the Elder Brains have decided you will finally be destroyed. Your Mythallar connects us to their armies. You have twenty four hours, and then my kind will come for yours in our full strength.

Twenty four hours only do you have. This is my final warning."

.

Enginetown was invaded.

A strike force departed and entered the long-sealed Spellguard Prison Complex. After battling its defenders, they found the the Prison Planar Sphere of Vhuuln - and within, the Appetite itself.

The Carrier, transformed into a walking bull form, held open the jaws as the "Appetite Eight" descended into it.

The team detonated eight bombs within, destroying the Appetite, but sacrificing their lives in the process.

The great Key of the Machine was recovered, and returned to Enginetown even as the Dread Armies drove its defenders within.

The Key was turned, and....

Quote
And so, Morro Springhand, turns the Ignition Key of the Great Dunwarren Machine.

Long, long ago amidst the fogs of the Isle of Ymph ,a Netherese Arch Mage discovered tablets of some mysterious origin. They were inscribed with instructions for building a great machine.

He consulted the other great mages of the Netherese Penal Colony of Ymph. It was agreed that the Machine should be built - if only to find out its true, ultimate purpose..

He enlisted the aid of simple native stargazers to construct it. In this effort they failed.

So this Arch Mage traveled into the Underdark and there found the svirfneblin of Old Dunwarren, whom he persuaded to assist him.

Under his instruction, they worked to create the Great Machine. And in their unrelenting labor, the svirfneblin society fractured.


Out of the dimness, the Appetite emerged. It brought with it a terrible curse: The industrious svirfneblin of Dunwarren were transformed into rats and rat-beasts. They scurried into the darkness, their work left unfinished, forgotten.

For centuries, the Machine mouldered in silence, until escaped slaves found the ruins of Dunwarren and built their city there. They called it Sanctuary. Inspired by its mysteries and possibilities, some sought to complete the Great Machine.

Sanctuary rose, fell, and rose again. The world was cast into the darkness of apocalypse. But in the Underdark, the work continued. 

In an abandoned village of the apocalyptic surface, not far from a rescue portal that many of Sanctuary's refugees used to make their way below, a roachman who had peered too long at the stars scribbled a piece of graffiti upon the wall of a derelict building.

"THE SUN HAS GONE OUT. THE SUN HAS GONE OUT. WHO WILL LIGHT IT UP AGAIN? WHO WILL LIGHT IT UP AGAIN?"

As the key is turned, the Machine rumbles. The quarter channels of earth, air, water, and fire churn. The energies of the planes crash together, are pulled into the Machine, and SMASH together....

It begins with sparks of warm light, dancing over the bones of Frederick Bresley.

The sparks surge into flame.

In the instant before your annihilation, your eyes fill with the first brilliance of a new sun. You gasp at its unbounded radiance. You gasp...one final time..



The energy of the new sun spreads obliterating flame over the broken world, and challenges the swirling world-eating god-devouring primordial force of destruction that is Dendar the Night Maiden. 

The howling serpent strikes at the surging light.

It prepares to devour a sun once more.

But the sun continues its expansion, and the immensity that is the head of Dendar is vaporized into a cloud of ash.

In the place of your world, in the place of all that has come before - a new, young sun burns... burns... burns.

The distant light of far stars fades in the illumination.

A new sun has dawned.

And so concludes chapter 4 of EFU, "Escape from Uncertainty: Revelations."

One stream of many... (https://www.twitch.tv/videos/366599635)
Also recommended watching... (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLjp7aDhxf4)