Brightshore

Ambassador Duka Killed, War on the Horizon?

Prepare for the worst my fellow citizens.

Tragedy has fallen over Brightshore. In previous months, the neighboring Hobgoblins – The Stalwart Shield – and Brightshore had established a peaceful alliance. In an exchange, Brightshore and The Shield traded ambassadors — Sir Maximilian Von Tibblesworth, representing Brightshore, and Ambassador Duka, a prevalent member of The Shield — solidified Brightshore’s adherence to the terms of the treaty: No westward expansion into The Shield’s territory, and no “atrocities” for one year.

As of Monday, Triciary 16th, Ambassador Duka was declared dead.

But what has crushed the hearts of nearly every citizen is the main suspect, Council Member Selene Skipriver, who sits in the Greystone behind bars as you read this. She will soon face the charges of murder, should no other conclusions or evidence be discovered by the authorities in the meantime.

But the atrocity does not end there, fellow citizens. Per the numbers of the Guard, and any and all militia or adventurers available, Brightshore is brutally outnumbered, outgeared, and underprepared in comparison to the might of The Shield. We can only pray to The Four, that they are merciful and forgiving as this is not the first time peace has failed with the Hobgoblins. Prepare for the worst, my fellow citizens.

Hellions’ Mouth Sealed At Last! (Special Field Report)

Loyal readers of the Voice may recall that it has been one year, nearly to the day, that Indomitable Malcolm Bradford was rescued from the fiend-infested cave south of town that came to be known as Hellions’ Mouth. In the following months, intrepid adventurers returned in two consecutive attempts to eradicate the fiendish scourge. The first claimed the soul of poor, brave Binval, and the second avenged his death, slaying the fiend that had slain him and returning Binval’s ashes to Brightshore.

Yet the rift that let these twisted creatures into our world remained open. Despite continued urgings from the Council and promises of gold rewards, a full five months passed with no further attempt to end the threat. I know from my conversations with others in town that I wasn’t the only one to feel increasingly uneasy about this doorway to the netherworld lying open not a day’s journey from our walls. And as the Olteus River took on a most unnatural shade and stench, I simply couldn’t sit and wait for others to do something any longer. I put down my quill, picked up a sword and pack, and headed out for Hellions’ Mouth on my own.

I now have a greater appreciation for what the courageous defenders of our town face when they venture into the wild. And I can attest that when a guard tells you it’s foolish to go out there alone, you should listen. I lost my tail to a hungry flock of axe beaks (thank the Four it was only my tail), and that was before I’d even reached the dreaded cave. Inside, I heard disembodied whispers and felt a creeping, stabbing cold. There was writing on the walls that made my eyes spin.

Words can scarcely relate how grateful I was when a party of adventurers arrived on the scene. But I didn’t just stand by as they saved the day. I helped them decipher the otherworldly scrawl, and when we discovered that only a blood sacrifice would allow us to complete our quest, I volunteered myself, not even knowing for certain if I would survive. As luck would have it, I did, but the demonic energies our ritual released very nearly claimed my soul.

I must give credit where it’s due. While I wrestled with the darkness spreading through my body, the others ventured into the rift itself. I wish I could tell you first-hand what lay beyond, but then again, I’m glad I was spared that grisly sight. The others described a world that resembled ours, but only in foul parody. They fought their way through abominations of ooze, shadow, and claw, and somehow all survived to destroy the source of the rift’s power and return in one piece. For a few terrible seconds, I glimpsed one of the creatures as it burst from the portal — a pillar of living slime with a single, burning eye — but Borivik the dwarf forced the creature back into the crack just before it shut.
With the path to the netherworld closed, that dark magic lost its hold on me, and I soon felt like my old self (minus the tail). I have never been happier than when I saw the trees of the wilderness give way to the rolling farms of home. But, while I’m not eager to relive my harrowing experience, I don’t think this will be the last time I set out on a field report. There are strange things happening outside our walls, and though it may be frightening at times, you deserve to know what’s out there.

Ezra’s Expedition Returns

This month saw the return of the expedition that had set out to explore and map strange new lands to the south. Though townsfolk turned out in droves to meet The Albatross at the docks, they found not a triumphant crew, but a deeply battered group that seemed grateful to have survived to make it back to Brightshore.

A quick headcount indicated that more than half of the crew had been killed in actions within what has come to be called Goodleaf Jungle, including the entirety of the specialist corp that had set out to unlock the mysteries of this strange new land.

Expedition members seemed to be universal in their assessment of the Goodleaf Jungle, that it was incredibly dangerous and a mistake to go. Gilded Shield Cleo of the Defenders said, “Going on this expedition just reinforced my beliefs that money and treasure mean nothing if you place it above your own life. When you chase rumors for glory… you remain a memory. Why would it all matter when you lose what actually means a lot more to you? Your family, friends, and your life. Money won’t matter when you pass away.” Longtime resident Baern said, “Worst expedition I’ve been on, but at least I survived. Bradford says that means it’s a success, but tell that to the men and women who lost their lives on a poorly planned trip to a jungle hellscape.” Expedition leader Ezra refused to comment, as did Flint.

Captain Hardwick Fairbeard, an accomplished captain from the Smoking City and captain of the newly built defender warship Albatross, said, “It were th’ most dangerous seas I e’er seen. Squalls and hurricanes there and back, whirlpools and mor’ storms around the ruins, and then the sea devils and a kraken! Be it not fer that halfling hero Finn, me ship would be at th’ bottom o’ th’ sea an’ I’d be shark food.”

There was one bright spot, however. Arbat the Druid, thought killed in an earlier attempt to map the coast to the south, was found alive in the ruins of an ancient dwarven city that has been named Boviomatua. She was seen meeting with both Indomitable Bradford and Professor Colin, but has otherwise refused to talk with anyone about what the jungle was like. Those who knew her well from her time tending fruit orchards around Brightshore say she has changed and shudder at what she must have experienced to survive.

Rumors have also spread that the dangerous jungle hides vast riches and incredible magic. They say that there are cities made of gemstones and temples full of gold, untold riches hidden for any strong enough to take them. No one knows if these tales are true, but a strange native of the land, who professed her newly discovered love of mead, has been seen wearing a fortune in gemstones she appears to consider but baubles, so there does seem to be something to the rumors.

Triton Contact

Little public knowledge is known at this time, but contacts close to the council indicate that a new undersea nation has been contacted by Brightshore diplomats, and peaceful relations have been established. The docks are awash with speculation of what this might mean, and some sailors are already crediting these tritons with keeping Founder’s Bay relatively safe. I will have more information as I can.

Goodbye to a Hero

To all those reading this today, I first thank you for your time.

Today, I formally write this to say goodbye to a close friend of mine who gave up his life so I could be here today to share his story with you all. Finn Goodleaf was more than a friend and Defender ally; he was an unexpected brother. We first met almost a year ago and believe it or not, we were afraid of each other at first. Over time, we started getting to know each other better and went on adventures together, which continued to forge a bond of friendship between us.

Finn Goodleaf was a halfling who had a large heart, regardless of his height. He was always considerate of others and always knew what to say to help make people feel better. He enjoyed drinking this alcohol stuff, but never let it go to his head. Keeping busy all the time, he still seemed to make time to check in with those he cared about and help out with high ambition and determination. He was part of the Arcanum and had two students he taught magic to. He also worked at Gost Citadel as the barkeep. Among all that, he still made time to join The Defenders and put his life at risk for the safety of all others.
While he did have a troubled past, his friends and family would all be proud of him now due to his sacrifice and his actions. I would not be here today if it wasn’t for him, so I owe it to him to make sure he is not forgotten.

Finnan Goodleaf, I knew you well enough to consider you my tribe brother and family member. You helped me through my worst and was there when I was at my best. You not being here leaves a void everywhere I look that will not be filled, but it will help me in remembering what you did. You shall not be forgotten as long as I can help it and I will remember all you taught me since we met.

–Cleo Catra

Those Are Big Owls

Frightened citizens reported witnessing horror ensue in the crossroads district at the beginning of this Duolus. Not one, but two enormous owls dove out of the sky into Brightshore. Experts estimated their wingspans were around 90 ft. across. But as they landed, both were observed shapeshifting.

The first owl — a large white owl, reported as injured — carried something with it. We have received mixed reports of what that item was, but what was consistent is that the owl appeared to have turned into a wood elf. Citizens pealed backwards as the wood elf screamed nonsense just before the second owl arrived.

The second owl was black, with a trail of billowing, dark smoke and red eyes. The black owl descended upon the wood elf. Some say there was a horde of creatures that came with them; others say a natural tornado suddenly appeared as the black owl turned into something horrible, like what you’d describe living in the woods to scare your children.
Thankfully, both owls left Brightshore without causing harm to anyone, a fate we hope continues as we fear for our safety with such beasts — or whatever they are — still out there and clearly aware of our city.

Catra Manor Infestation: Oh Rats

Disturbing reports have been streaming in regarding a recent disaster at the Cleo Catra Manor, a shelter to help those in need of warm food, a warm bed, and new opportunities. Guards and citizens reported an innumerous amount of rats pouring from below, into the kitchens! Just before all hope was lost, the notable Mrs. Morgan Bradford and a group of brave, rat-fighting adventurers arrived. The adventurers volunteered to lock themselves inside the kitchen and the town waited in angst, safe beyond the barricade. Alas, our heroes survived and snuffed out the beginnings of the epidemic! Thank ye heroes.

The Nicked Rock Reopens

The final days of the month saw the grand reopening of the Nicked Rock. Now owned by local legend Errol Twice-Blessed, it appears to have been built to exacting specifications to look and feel exactly like the old Nicked Rock. Somehow, they’ve even managed to mostly recreate the smell of the place, which has led to rumors of Arcanum involvement.
The Twice-Blessed had this to say, “I am thrilled that the Nicked Rock has been returned to us after its tragic destruction. Many of us in Brightshore have had memorable moments here, so it’s only right that it be restored to its former glory. The Gods willing we will all have many years to enjoy its unique environment.”

Dragon Statue in Park Now Features Real Dragon!

An unusual, tiny dragon that calls itself Fancyscale has made a home out of the smoking dragon statue in the park.

While investigating, I found several of my missing quills in its so-called “Lost and Found,” but Fancyscale also made sure to let me know about an upcoming contest to win free item enchantments. Fancyscale refused to elaborate, but I will keep trying to uncover how this contest works–and maybe find more of my missing items!

Archon to Make First Public Appearance Since Son’s Disappearance

According to a source at the Temple of Olteus, Archon Jacinta is scheduled to resume teaching her midwifery and reproductive health classes at the Temple of Ava this month. This will be the Archon’s first appearance since her son, Marco Savedra, escaped from the Graystone two months ago after being accused of fraternizing with devils. While several of her students stated that they are happy about their teacher’s return, many Brightshore residents remain concerned about the well-being of the Archon and her husband, Chancellor Orrin.

“I can’t imagine the shock she must have had, that they both must have had,” said Wisteria Palyu, who sells vegetables from her cart in the Market District with her 16-year-old son, Abel. “If it were my son accused of doing all those horrid things…well, I would just simply die of it.”

Abel, for his part, expressed disappointment in Marco, who was well-liked up until the accusations made by Malcolm Bradford and several other Brightshore residents. “He didn’t seem the type to ever make a deal with a devil,” said Abel. “He was always telling me to keep my nose clean and do what Ma told me. I used to kind of admire him.”

Illuminator Ignatius, administrator of the Temple of Ava, states that while the midwifery class will return to its normal schedule and is open to anyone interested in learning to birth babies, the Temples have not yet determined a date for the Archon to resume the rest of her duties. He further states that the Archon will not be fielding any questions regarding her son during the class and requests that persons who do have questions on that topic wait for a more appropriate time. He refused to comment on Marco’s possible guilt.

Lightning-Struck Brightshorians Bring Back a Surprise!

Just earlier this month, reports were received about a group of adventurers who sat in a strange metallic array to willingly take on the blast from a lightning strike – crazy! Everyone lived, thank the Gods, and the group – who was easily identifiable with frizzy hair and burns – was seen leaving into the ruins. Their faces were remembered, but rumor has it that another face returned with them. She has been the talk of the town since, and for good reason too! Who knew that the Indomitable Lord Malcolm Bradford had a wife?

Expedition Departs for Far Off Lands

The middle of the month saw the departure of the newly commissioned Defender warship, the Albatross. Its first mission was to undertake a daring expedition, led by Ezra, to a far-off land. Little is known about the expedition’s goals or what they hope to achieve, but this represents the first serious attempt at exploring the wider areas around Brightshore since the disastrous expeditions of year 4, year 7, and year 15.

Being a Brief Account of a Meeting with Giantfolk

My fellow citizens: In order to dispel the rumors and gossip about the recent experience of myself and several other Brightshore residents, you will find below my first-hand account of the initial meeting between us and the giantfolk. Should you desire a more complete and detailed account, a record of the incident can be found within the library in the Temple of Unre. Respectfully, Guard Captain Redford Bolt.

On the 8th of Unicus, during my recent vacation, I was approached by Enkeh Nere, Kujo Funabashi, and a tabaxi named Storm, who requested I accompany them on a journey two days south, to retrieve the annual Red Springflower on behalf of the Temple of Olteus. On the third morning after leaving Brightshore, our party observed two dragons locked in combat. Their age was indeterminable due to distance, but it was clear that one was red and one copper. They flew away before we could examine them further.

We then observed the astoundingly rapid approach of a floating city upon a cloud, from which descended a giant who introduced himself as Count Sarzus. This Count Sarzus indicated we were “fated” to resolve a dispute among him and his fellow giants, making it clear that he would not accept a refusal.

Count Sarzus then took us upon his floating cloud city, where he informed us that we would resolve the dispute by facing various trials. These trials each had a basis upon one of the four elements, though notably due to the giants’ attention being required elsewhere, we were spared the trial of fire.

After the completion of these trials, an assembly of giants asked us which of the four elements was the most powerful. We deliberated, and Enkeh felt strongly that magic was above all the most powerful. The giants were pleased with this answer, then stated they would grant us the highest reward they could give. They asked us which of the four elements we favored, and being a follower of Unre, I answered “earth”. The giants then teleported our party to a cavern, deep underground. Whether this place was indeed the Elemental Plane of Earth, as speculated by some, remains unclear.

We set about trying to determine the best course of action, and encountered a golem-type creature holding a spear, of which Storm relieved it, giving it his spear as a trade. Another creature, ostensibly an earth djinn, found us and, pleased that we, or rather I, had chosen his realm as my preferred, returned us to the location from where Count Sarzus had initially kidnapped us. This same Count Sarzus then appeared again and gifted us a bouquet of the red springflowers for which we had been searching before his floating cloud city retreated to the far south.

At this point, we returned to town.

Notice of Bridge Closure

Witnesses report that a man named Finder Sinclair blew up the North Bridge with mighty blasts of lightning.

Repairs are already underway.

Kobold Raiders

Residents to the east of the city are requesting help as several farms and camps have been attacked by kobolds in recent days. Before a group of adventurers drove off their “god”, a large blue dragon, the kobolds had not adventured so close to the city, but have been since stirred up and have been raiding settlements closer to Brightshore.

A Note From the Editor

Fellow People of Brightshore,

I have let you down.

When I wrote the first hundred copies of the Voice by hand and stood at the Crossroads passing them out from dawn to dusk, I promised you I’d do everything in my power to bring you the truth of what was happening inside our walls. You put your trust in me. And I betrayed that trust.

As more and more adventure-seekers stepped onto our docks, it seemed each new day brought a new expedition, disaster, or scandal. I could tell you that, as the days grew too short to pen all the stories and deliver them to The Creased Page in time to print, it became necessary to rely on the contributions of other writers, and to pass those contributions on unchecked and unedited.

But that would be an excuse. And there is no excusing the skewed, derogatory, and inflammatory letters I have blindly accepted, printed, and distributed alongside the real news of our town.

I regret that this comes perhaps too late, but I ask that you put your trust in me once more as I renew my original promise. This is not the Voice of the Elite or the Voice of the Agitators. This is the Voice of Brightshore.

And if there are others like me out there who seek the truth and wish to share it, perhaps it’s also time I admit that this job is turning out to be more than one tiefling can handle.

You know where to find me—standing at the Crossroads.

A Response to a Very Concerned Citizen

There are factual matters that are incorrect in the article “Council Overreach at the Citadel!” that must be corrected.

First, the workers were not dismissed due to Arbiter Zdenko’s manner. A dwarf foreman got the wrong idea about the techniques being used to close passages to the Drow regions and foolishly sent the workers home without verifying the techniques would be dangerous. Sir Gost did indeed pay them for the rest of the workday.

Second, the work was able to resume the very next day as Arbiter Zdenko confirmed that there was no danger to the workers. The schedule for the Citadel’s completion should not be adversely affected. This is important to note.

Third, a reason for the actions were given by the Arbiter. There was no instruction that they not be made public. The actions were twofold – to seal the Drow away from the Citadel and seal the Citadel away from the Drow. Certain events over the past months had lead to the impression of provocation on either side and the Arbiter’s decision was to limit interaction.

-A Witness to the Events

Tower Lights Up The Sky In Unprecedented Lightshow

Late at night on the 3rd of the month, the Kintsugi Tower lit up the sky and shook the foundations of the town with thunderous peals. The entire tower was encompassed by a white, glowing nimbus, and the jeweled scar was lit with a rainbow of oscillating colors. Periodic booms from deep inside the tower shook windows throughout the city, and as onlookers gathered outside to watch the spectacle, a beam of light shot from the top of the tower into the heavens. After several minutes, the incredible light show stopped.

The council has made no explanation as to what happened, or what might have caused the Tower to behave in this way.

A Miracle from a Tragedy

All of Brightshore was shaken by the eldritch explosion that leveled the beloved Nicked Rock tavern recently. Eye-witness accounts vary, but the general consensus is that the proprietors were again engaging in the time-honored tradition of encouraging patrons to strike at the mysterious namesake rock the tavern was built around with their mightiest blows, when Galvan Gost unleashed a magical smite which caused a resonate shockwave. The bar was completely leveled, and many patrons were maimed, while seven were outright slain in the incident.

Many ran away, but a few brave heroes ran towards the explosion and sounds of calamity. Among them was Harriet Dartan, daughter of the Dartan noble family and apprentice priestess in the temple of Olteus. Although she had never manifested any magical potential previously, the young woman claims she felt the spirit of her god flowing through her that night, and thus she miraculously was able to restore all of the deceased bar patrons to life, and heal the many grievous injuries of those present. No one has been able to explain this miracle, but this hasn’t stopped Harriet from throwing herself into aiding the community, as citizens suffering from injuries and maladies that have long resisted both mundane and magical healing are flocking to be touched by her curative hands at the temple of Olteus.

As for the Nicked Rock, it has been sold to the local hero and well regarded patron, Errol Twice-Blessed. Reconstruction work is already underway, and the Twice-Blessed has promised to restore it just as it was.

Though many citizens are clamoring for the perpetrator to pay damages and distribute money to the victims of the incident, those affected found some satisfaction when Galvan was jailed for his crimes.

Galvan has announced plans to open a “safer, friendlier” competing establishment in the near future, but the famous rock that survived the disaster remains at what is now a crater of rubble, still unscathed as construction begins around it once more.

River District Rises from the Ruins

The River District, once stomped to rubble by a giant construct, is again a bustling hub of activity. Due to wise management decisions from the council, many faces new and old have set up their homes in the district, and rebuilding efforts are either underway or completed.

This offers some much needed relief to Brightshore’s growing housing shortage. As more people continue to arrive in town, citizens have increasingly begun to request permission to clear out the western ruins and secure the rest of the ancient city.

Tower District Terror

The murderer truly responsible for the series of murders around town has finally been brought to justice. Lady Luna Drumlin, an aged and respected member of Brightshore’s upper class was found to be the mastermind behind a halfling assassin. Guards brought on to protect her discovered a hidden basement where Lady Drumlin was illegally imprisoning innocents, encasing them in stone, and then killing them. The adventurers rescued several, and Lady Drumlin was killed when the adventurers confronted her about her misdeeds, but her halfling catspaw escaped.

Further investigation determined that Lord Drumlin had also been murdered by his Lady, as was the husband of their daughter, Leslie Drumlin. After extensive investigation, Leslie was cleared of all wrongdoing, and is now the sole inheritor of the massive Drumlin fortune and estate, and rumors are that some uncouth suitors are ignoring mourning protocols and already knocking on her door.

Galvin Gost Arrested

Galvan Gost, who has had increasingly common run-ins with town authorities, was arrested late in the month for defying council orders to hand over an evil flesh eating manticore. He was apparently trying to raise the foul creature on his property. During the arrest, Gost attempted to smuggle the beast out of the city, but the Rangers told townsfolk they had nothing to fear and that the problem had been taken care of, and assured citizens that the events of two decades ago would not be repeated.

Abigail Farnsworth was not convinced, and had this to say, “I told everyone these adventurer types were no good. Only thing worse than an eccentric rich fool is an eccentric rich fool that regularly seeks their own death for a few more coins they don’t even need! Look at me, I just sell my oysters and I get by, don’t see me wanting to raise evil beasts do you?”

Cult Defeated But Kraken Remains a Mystery

It was a busy month for captains Marxa and Gombold.

Mere days after returning from her voyage to bring to Brightshore a literal boatload of dwarves, Gombold’s Tide Dancer was stolen, and a force of strange creatures invaded the docks. They seemed to be the corpses of people lost at sea, reanimated and covered in brime-frost. With the assistance of a few adventurers who luckily happened to be close at hand, the guards defeated the creatures and apprehended their apparent leader. She later turned out to be a member of the insidious kraken cult that recently killed the actor Benvedere and the warrior Victorio. Four of Brightshore’s brave guards were killed in the invasion, adding to the brave souls claimed by the cult.

Gombold and the adventurers boarded Marxa’s Eel, which had also just returned from a voyage, to speed through the frigid water after the Tide Dancer. They returned five days later with Gombold’s ship in tow. According to the captains, adventurers, and crew, the kraken cult was responsible for the theft of the ship, and they have been dealt with. They should no longer be a threat to our city.

As for what happened out at sea, the crew reported that they pursued the Tide Dancer into the outer reaches of the Fog. A fierce battle between the two vessels was waged there. Aat the end of it, they say they heard a terrible, booming voice resounding in their minds. Some swear that it was the dreaded kraken himself.

The Council could not be reached for an official comment, but Veil Silvershield saw fit to remind us that the kraken is only an old sailor’s legend, and no sign of anything of the sort has been seen during 23 years of ships coming and going through the Fog. Still, this writer wonders if it’s only a coincidence that the same creature appeared in that ancient play recovered not far from our shores.

Jailbreak, Orrin’s Son Marco Escapes!

The sturdy stone walls of the Graystone were ripped asunder as a giant flying devil clawed its way into Marco’s cell and then immediately flew off with him. Marco, Chancellor Orrin’s son, had been imprisoned since last month on accusations of devil summoning, and the investigation had been ongoing.

Guards and adventurers gave chase and followed the devil into the ruins across the river. Upon their return, rumors spread like wildfire, and worst of all, the most shocking of the rumors seem to be true. Sources at the Guard, the Shine of Ava, and the city council all affirm that Marco was indeed seen stepping through a portal to the burning lands of devils, and that he issued a warning to his father as his last words before he sealed the portal shut behind him.

Chancellor Orrin has not been seen since the incident, nor has his wife, Archon Jacinta.

Council Overreach at the Citadel!

This month, Sir Galvan Gost, Lord Commander of the Order of the Black Veil received an aggressive, unexpected visit from an armed Arbiter Zdenko, allegedly the neutral scion of law. As many are aware, Sir Gost has spent much of his gains from his heroic deeds employing everyday crafters, laborers, and other laypeople to work on the Gost Citadel, a bastion of hope for Brightshore’s overlooked citizens.

Recently, Sir Gost – who prefers to go by Galvan – was working to secure entry points from potentially powerful enemies at his own cost. However, the self-appointed Council of Brightshore marched onto the Citadel’s work in progress with an army of nearly two dozen guards and powerful clerics and demanded entry. Galvan allowed them into the Citadel after they refused his kind offer to allow him to prepare to receive such guests. Due to the aggressive nature of Arbiter Zdenko and the Council, Galvan dismissed the laborers on his estate, still paying them for the day, for their own safety.

Unfortunately, the Council has yet to provide a public reason for entering the Citadel. It was observed that several priests of Unre were swarming, looking in every doorway, cellar, and even moving rocks for something. After several days of investigation and noted failures, the clergy left the Citadel, and Galvan was able to resume work.

It is obvious that the Council is afraid of the power of the people. If the choice were given to the citizens of Brightshore, they would no doubt have Galvan, a noted benevolent leader and man of the people, lead Brightshore to a great new future. A future where goblins would not raid us, where we could expand into the ruins of a former great empire, and where an everyman’s opinion is as welcome as that of an absent father of a devil worshipper. A future not determined by someone who builds a tower to his own hubris alongside our blessed temples and spent years manipulating the aging Council, but rather someone who set foot on our shores with the goal of making Brightshore a place for everyone, powerful or weak, crusader or craftsman, rich or poor, checkered past or pristine examples of greatness.

It is up to us to make sure that the Council does not step over those they are afraid of. Do not let this trespass against such a noble person go amiss!

Signed,
A Very Concerned Citizen

Kobold Raiding Party Captured

In an unusual first for Brightshore, a group of hostile kobold were spotted to the northeast and were captured by a group of adventurers. The kobolds intentions are unknown at this time, but Abigail Farnsworth had this to say, “Can’t never trust a kobold. Slimy little things, having one in town already is bad enough.”

Chancellor Orrin’s Son Marco Arrested for Summoning Devils!

Shockwaves rippled through the Council Chamber as Indomitable Bradford and six witnesses charged Marco with summoning devils within Brightshore. Later, Indomitable Bradford submitted hellish weaponry into evidence, and other scholars have confirmed that such weapons and armor could only have come from hellfire fueled forges.

Marco, who has been placed in the Graystone while an investigation takes place, has continued to maintain his innocence. Chancellor Orrin has refused to comment and has been seen little since the accusation on the floors of the Council Chamber. Rumors say that he has been spending ever more time in the tower, but no one knows for sure.
Arbiter Zdenko Ryll has promised a full and fair investigation, which he cautions could take months.

Abigail Farnsworth said, “I always knew there was something off about that Marco kid. Too nice, too laid back. It’s always the quiet ones you have to watch out for you know?”

Bell Salvaged from City Ruins

An ancient bell was salvaged from the ruins of the city across the river. The bell reportedly weighs nearly 70,000 pounds and is nearly sixteen feet in diameter. The bell was hauled into town, where it was turned over to be melted down for metal.

The band of adventurers that accompanied the bell also brought back a goblin wizard named Zrogeh’ziz from the ruins. Bystanders said that the adventurers claimed the goblin helped them and was willing to help the town.

Zrogeh’ziz was escorted to the Arcanum to join the other wizards of the newly founded wizard’s guild of Brightshore. Rumors persist that Zrogeh’ziz is obsessed with the power of lightning, and longtime locals have insisted that the frequency of lightning and storms this winter has been exceptionally unusual, as is the apparent concentration of storm clouds over the Arcanum.

Nicked Rock Invaded by Lightning Flinging Slime

Normal business activities were interrupted at the Nicked Rock when a lightning flinging slime that was chasing Sephilia Everglory burst up from the basement. Eleven patrons were killed before the slime could be subdued, and the tavern itself suffered some minor damage.

The famed rock of the Nicked Rock was, of course, unharmed.

Adventurer’s Ashes Returned to Brightshore

A band of adventurers once again made the trek back to the Hellion’s Mouth cave. They returned with the ashes of Binval, who was killed in the cave, and also with the hulking form of what a specialist identified as a vrock. This anonymous specialist also noted how unusual it was for a demon not to immediately turn to dust upon being killed, and said it was an “ill-omen” that the corpse has persisted. He urges whoever is in custody of the vrock body to incinerate it and douse the ashes in holy water before dispersing them on the four winds.

Official Exchange of Ambassadors Between Brightshore and Stalwart Shield

Sources on the council have confirmed that a council-sanctioned Ambassador was sent to the Stalwart Shield hobgoblin and orc tribe in an effort to further build relations. The council has also announced that they hand-picked Ambassador Maximilian von Tibblesworth to represent our fair city, and welcome Ambassador Duka within our walls.
The council has confirmed that all hostilities are to cease with the hobgoblin and orc tribe, and that our western border is to be considered set until further notice. Travel westward into Stalwart Shield territory at your own risk. We have pledged not to violate their borders just as they will not violate ours. Additionally, the council has confirmed that the Stalwart Shield will view any “atrocities” as a treaty violation as well, and that such actions would likely hurt any attempts at future neighborly relations. They declined to define what was meant by “atrocities.”

A source that I will keep anonymous has also ensured the delivery of this letter from our new Ambassador:

“Dear friends in Brightshore, we stand today on the edge of a new continent, and on the edge of history. Before us lies an opportunity unlike any our peoples have had in generations. We all know what we’ve fled, the oppressive empires forged in fire and blood that lie behind us. Now we have a chance to build something new, to be a city on a hill, a beacon of peace and hope to the world. We’ve already baptized this land in battle with our goblin neighbors, but we need not drown it in war. We have in our hands the seeds of a peace treaty that can bind all our races together in a common prosperity. We need only do the hard work of planting and nurturing it. I implore you, friends, do not throw away this shot at a new beginning, and a new era defined by hope and friendship rather than hate and the sword. Ambassador Tibblesworth, out.”

Strong words, it’s easy to see why the council chose him!

Ancient Play Performed

Ever since a group of adventurers unearthed an ancient play from nearby ruins, local thespians have been dying to get a chance to perform it. Unfortunately, the first performance saw this taken all too literally.

The much-anticipated debut performance of Latoro’s epic Oefelion was well attended by citizens eager to learn more about the history of the surrounding area and to see the promised “visual extravaganza” that would accompany the climactic final battle.
However, the performance was interrupted when one of the kraken puppeteers stabbed Benvedere, who was playing the star role of Oefelion, in the eye with a dagger. It was later revealed that the puppeteer was a secret member of a cult of kraken worshipers and that this act was some sort of terrorism.

The town guard and three adventurers chased down the murderer and went to their headquarters to investigate. They found an overwhelming number of cultists. Although they fought valiantly and killed many of the dark cultists, one of the adventurers was slain and the others were forced to retreat.

Captain Redford promises to send another, stronger expedition to stamp out the cultists as soon as possible. Until then, he warns citizens to stay out of the ruins and to avoid walking alone at night or dealing with suspicious characters.

The council assures the townsfolk that there is no evidence of a kraken, despite what the cultists seem to believe. The play, while possibly rooted in historical fact, almost certainly contains a great deal of fictional embellishment. Until we find more documents and artifacts from the era, it will be impossible to be certain.

Benvedere’s funeral was held in the Temple District. The play was performed again ten days later, and was dedicated to the memory of Benvedere and the fallen adventurer, Victorio. Benvedere’s understudy did the best under the circumstances, but unfortunately wasn’t able to replace the raw talent of Benvedere.

Lightning Never Strikes the Same Place Twice Theory Disproved in Brightshore!

Just last week, many citizens reported a consistently striking lightning storm. Columns of lightning deafened Brightshorians every thirty seconds or so, with maintained touch down somewhere in the ruins of Brightshore. Very few storm clouds were reported that day and thus the question must be discussed: What of the source; was this truly a natural phenomenon?

Multiple groups of adventurers were seen hightailing into the ruins. Some were sighted upon return drenched, with strange electrical burns and frizzy hair. Additionally, guards reported a renowned thief voluntarily turned herself in, only to immediately pay her own bail.

Perhaps she was struck by lightning herself! The frequency of storms in Brightshore has only increased since the lightning occurrence. As winter approaches, the Voice of Brightshore reminds you to stay low to the ground should any lightning storms occur; stay dry; and purchase warm socks.

Snail Flails Through Market Square

An unusual giant snail made a wreck of the market district, leaving merchants and bystanders alike perplexed. Luckily, some adventurers happened to be in the area, and put a quick end to the slimy threat.

The scintillating shell drew onlookers from around the city before Defenders arrived to carry the shell off to Indomitable Bradford’s mansion. When asked if he was going to put it on display, he had little to say other than “The matter will be taken care of, no further comment.”

Jorpot’s Shop of Wonders Closes Temporarily

“Jorpot’s Shop of Wonders is temporarily closed while the proprietor recovers from injuries. In the meantime, the city guard will maintain security on the shop.

Anyone attempting to break in will be considered an action against both Jorpot and the City.

Notice: All Admittance to the Gost Citadel, under Galvan Gost, must be approved. Trespassers will be ejected with prejudice.”

-Arbiter Zdenko

Saltrock Quarry Opens

The Temples of the Four is seeking laborers and masons for the newly opened Saltrock Quarry. Applicants should speak to Illuminator Ignatius of the Temple of Ava.