EFU:R Gossip, Major Events, and Rumors (IC Knowledge)

[Tala]

::[ 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...

[Talir]

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...

[SanTelmo]

::[ 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.

[Kinslayer988]

::[ 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.

[Talir]

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.

[Tala]

::[ 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...

[Kinslayer988]

::[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.

[Kinslayer988]

:: [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.

[Kinslayer988]

::[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.

[Kinslayer988]

::[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.

[Ironside]

::[ 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.

[Tala]

::[ 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.

[Gippy]

::[ 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?

[Ironside]

::[ 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.

[Kinslayer988]

::[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.