Brightshore

Unlike the past two months, this edition of the Voice of Brightshore is well printed on sturdy paper.

Goblin Encampments Raided

Indomitable Bradford authorized retaliatory strikes against the goblins that recently attempted to invade Brightshore. Military targets were chosen in order to maximize the forces available for the mission, and a special strike force was assembled by one of Bradford’s top civilian military advisors, Ezra.

When asked for comment on the counterattacks, Ezra said, “We showed those primitives what happens to those who stand against Brightshore!” He characterized the mission as a success, and said, “We struck back against the goblins and showed that we can’t be pushed around, yet showed mercy by giving the inhabitants time to evacuate if they chose.”

When this reporter asked about who inhabitants referred to, and if this was in fact a military target, Ezra said, “We did not intentionally kill non-combatants, but in the chaos of battle these things are not always easy to determine,” and that “In a war for survival, every target is a military target.”

When asked if he had any final words, Ezra had this to say, “We have won two great victories; we are manifestly destined to prevail.”

There have been rumors of other small bands of adventurers hunting down stray goblins as well, perhaps in part influenced by the new bounty being offered by the Defenders. The Defenders will pay 2 sp for the right ear of any goblin brought to the central guard station.

Murderous Priest Defrocked, To Be Executed

Beauregard Durnquist, a once retired priest of Olteus of much renown, has been officially defrocked by the temple and will be executed publicly for unspeakable crimes that have just been brought to light.

Durnquist was hailed as a hero four years ago when he miraculously cured the plague that was beginning to take hold and which no other priest had been able to treat. But he has now, in the twilight of his years, confessed that he in fact murdered the victims prematurely in order to halt the spread of the disease. He turned himself into the council.

His sudden change of heart came just after a party of adventurers visited his manor, responding to pleas for help from his estate. Apparently the priest had been suffering from terrible nightmares.

The same adventurers solved the mystery of the murder of Priest Ullman who had died a few nights prior during an attempt to exorcise the source of Durnquist’s nightmares. They say a hag named Myrtle Mousedipper had come to take Durnquist’s wicked soul and carry it to the underworld. Fortunately, the adventurers disposed of the hag permanently. Citizens of Brightshore can rest assured that Myrtle won’t be visiting them in their dreams.

Western Ruins Remain Dangerous

Due to a string of deaths in the ruins of the city to the west, the city guard wishes to remind us that the ruins across the river are still quite dangerous. Though passage is not barred from those seeking entrance, it is recommended that only large, well-equipped groups venture over the bridges, and then only during daylight hours and for no longer than necessary.

If you must venture to the ruins, it is also suggested that you make prudent arrangements with your next of kin.

Creased Page Under New Ownership

The Creased Page has reopened for the first time since the murder of Orfilin. Nelicano, Orfilin’s son, will be taking over operations of the shop.

This edition of the Voice of Brightshore appears to be handwritten on what could only loosely be called parchment.

Battle of Brightshore

On the 24th, the long rumored goblin army finally struck at Brightshore. Hundreds of goblins and bugbears swarmed the walls and came up through the sewers, and it is my belief that the city would have been lost but for the aid of many of the adventurers who call Brightshore home.

The Battle of the Bay saw the bloodiest action. A tide of goblins thousands strong aboard rafts and boats attempted to make landfall, but the Council Ship Lewis and the Luminaire held the line. The Luminaire was itself boarded during the fierce naval combat, but an elite group led by Errol Twice-Blessed fought them off. “There at the end, we were wading through the goblin blood. We cut down dozens of them!” said a talkative Captain Gombold, who was in temporary command of the Luminaire. Captain Gombold also credited them as the strike team that disrupted the foul ritual the goblins were using to create the fog on the water. “When that fog came in, we couldn’t see anything to shoot, if they hadn’t risked their lives taking the fight to the goblins, we would have lost the harbor for sure. Brave bunch, nearly died you know,” said the Captain.

When asked about his role in the battle, The Twice-Blessed said, “It is only by the grace of the Four that Brightshore still stands. We must not forget those who have passed on to dwell with Unre. The victory in the harbor can be attributed to the dogged determination of those willing to give their lives to protect our precious home.” The Twice-Blessed was also quick to thank the rest of his strike force, saying “I can’t thank Captain Gombold enough for his fearless leadership. And Cleo’s unwavering determination, Ezra’s timely spells and Baern’s stalwart fortitude were instrumental in successfully stopping the ritual producing the fog.”

The Battle of the Sticky Gate was spearheaded by the defensive measures laid down by Thorin, a druid that lives near the town. His webbing was instrumental in protecting the town from attacks in that direction and the goblins there never stood a real chance.

The fight at the Western Bridges was perhaps the biggest victory of the battle. Riyla, a bard renowned for her songs at the Wink and Whistle, is now the subject of her own songs of heroism, as many of the city guard credit her and the adventurers with her for holding the gate against a stream of goblins, bugbears, and wolf riders. The forces there managed to keep the horde from entering town despite the collapse of one of the gate towers, and even managed to capture the bugbear war leader after fending off a surprise attack from the sewers. The bugbear leader, Ox, is currently being held by the council for questioning.

While all of this battle raged elsewhere, the goblin Warlord herself attacked the Tower District wall, apparently making a beeline for the Tower itself, where Chancellor Orrin himself oversaw the defenses. The goblin force hit hard, and mangonels rained down rocks upon the outer walls. Using the cover of night, the goblins advanced to the very walls themselves, and attempted to climb them while also making their way through breaches. Arbiter Zdenko was seen to bravely position himself on top of the rubble in an attempt to stop the advancing horde, where he was nearly crushed to death by a boulder from the goblin siege engines.

Sources indicate that at this point, apparently being familiar with his renowned battle prowess, Chancellor Orrin himself requested that Galvan Gost deal with the goblin siege engines. Galvan bravely and unhesitatingly accepted the impossible task, and alone, set out to end the threat of the hurled stones. One source said that tears were shed upon Galvan’s departure, so sure were they that they would never see the brave warrior again, and as the wall’s defenders once again joined in battle, cheers of “For Galvan!” rang out. But amazingly, Galvan accomplished his goal and survived. Though fighting alone deep behind enemy lines, Galvan single-handedly killed every last goblin siege engineer, and ensured that no more boulders would land against the wavering walls.

Then the goblin warlord herself appeared from the darkness, riding atop a giant metal construct. It easily smashed through the wall and the brave wizard Zren strode out to meet this monstrosity that was on the verge of victory. Enacting some kind of mind magic, Zren convinced the warlord to simply leave, and to turn her forces around.

Though disaster was narrowly averted, it is difficult to qualify the actions in the Temple district as a victory. The warlord was allowed to leave, as were the remainder of her forces. We will no doubt see them again, and next time, the warlord will no doubt be far better prepared.

In related news, Indomitable Bradford has made it known that he is seeking hearty souls to put and end to the goblin threat, and that he will not rest until the goblin warlord’s head is atop a spear above the walls she destroyed.

Expedition Returns from the Dark Forest

A pair of brave adventurers, identified by Marshal Veil as Ixi and Kujo, were sent deep into the Dark Forest located far to the southeast. Many such small scouting parties have been sent into that forest in recent months, and very few have ever returned.

When asked about the experience, Ixi spoke at length about the glory of Ava, and told of a land that did not know Ava’s light. Ixi said that they traveled through time to witness a great battle in a city that housed a great gift of Ava, and of the great sorrow when that gift was shattered.

The story, as incredible as it is, is given weight by the unusual spear Ixi now carries. It seems to possess an almost blinding radiance and carries a strange symbol on it. When asked about it, Ixi said, “Ixi was given this by Ava herself. It fell from the sky with the first light of the Sun. The symbol is of an ancient aspect of Ava. Ixi believes it is a reward for defeating creatures that would defy her will and blot out the sun.”

The warrior-poet Kujo filled in some additional, if equally unlikely claims. He mentioned a mysterious Guide that delivered them back in time and claimed that the shadows of the past would extend into the present if they didn’t change history. Kujo further went on to explain that He explains that they were unable to stand against the overwhelming forces of darkness, so Ixi heroically destroyed the artifact to keep it out of evil’s clutches. While that seems to have stopped the immediate threat, it appears some remnant of the gem may still exist in the present, and the Guide said it was imperative that they find it as soon as possible. Kujo also mentioned that this battle against the darkness involved a larger conflict with two characters, one called the Duke of Shadow, supposedly an enslaved and corrupted wizard of the light, and the other called Kalad.

When asked about the battle itself, Kujo said “although we slew at least a dozen of the shadowborn demons, there were far more than the two of us could face alone.”

Peace Reached With Hobgoblin Tribe

The council announced that a tentative peace has been reached with a primitive hobgoblin to our west. At council behest, a group of adventurers assisted by a translator were sent deep into the forests beyond the furthest farms, and bested the primitives at their own games. Now suitably humbled, they agreed to stay off our lands.

Additionally, as a show of good faith, we have agreed to stay off their lands as well. Further westward expansion will be halted.

Though hostilities have officially ceased, we encourage citizens to remain wary, and to report any incursion to the Defenders.

Opening Soon: Balmond’s Brewpub

Balmond’s Brew Pup will soon open, and the owner says that his new brewery will provide the finest brews to local business. Balmond’s will also include a taproom with limited hours of operation for special events and tastings.

This edition of the Voice of Brightshore appears to be inexpertly printed. It is misaligned, smudged in places, and otherwise not up to its usual quality. 

Orfilin Murdered, Creased Page Ceases Operations

Orfilin, beloved owner and operator of the Creased Page, was found murdered in his shop on the 24th. According to Captain Bolt, the murder fits the pattern of the serial killer that remains on the loose. He has implored anyone with information to come directly to the Central Guard post, and has promised a reward for any information that leads to the capture of the killer, dead or alive.

Orfilin was a dear personal friend as well as a friend of the Voice of Brightshore, and will be missed.

Goblin Threat More Severe Than First Reports Indicated

Adventurers have returned from a scouting mission which indicated that not only are there more goblins and bugbears than were first reported, but that the creatures are in possession of warships and a metal construct similar to the one that recently rampaged through the River District.

The Council attempted to keep this matter secret, but newly elected Council Member Commander Bradford loudly proclaimed the threat publicly to his new cadre of recruits in our new military force, the Defenders of Brightshore. Bradford vowed upon his honor that the Defenders would ensure that the threat was dealt with.

The adventurers were also seen bring a goblin into town, and rumors suggest the goblin is one of the members of the force that appears to be assembling to assault the town. Many are quietly–and not so quietly–questioning the wisdom of giving an enemy soldier free run of the town. Abigail Farnsworth said, “First it was that screeching harpy of an elf woman, and now goblins? Why can’t these adventurer types just leave well enough alone?”

Riot at the Temple on the Day of Ashes

A local sect of Unre worshippers stormed the temple plaza during the Day of Ashes celebration in protest against the worship of Ava and sacrifice to the goddess. Clad in slate grey robes and calling themselves “The Underground,” they attempted to take the stage on which the Everburning Flame burned for some unknown purpose. They were held at bay by the temple clergy and a few brave citizens, and while there was violence, thankfully there were no casualties. Those member of the Underground who were subdued were taken into custody and are being interviewed as to their purposes. Illuminator Ignatius, head of the temple of Ava in Brightshore, declined to comment.

The Voice of Brightshore did receive an unsolicited message from someone calling themselves Alabaster the Righteous and claiming to be the leader of the Underground. In this message, which I have been asked not to publish, Alabaster claimed that Unre was the mother of Olteus, Ava, and Menran, and thus the only one deserving of worship. He also lamented the state of the temple and called them unworthy leeches on the workers, farmers, and tradespeople of Brightshore.

When asked about Alabaster and the Underground, Illuminator Ignatius again declined comment, but did say that the churches of Ava and Unre will be donating a large amount of recently quarried stone as well as skilled labor to the reconstruction effort of the River District.

Good Ship Gecko Fuzz Lost at Sea

The Good Ship Gecko Fuzz is confirmed lost at sea. The only three known survivors of the doomed exploration expedition were seen dragging themselves ashore from a primitive wooden canoe, and were barely recognizable due to their ordeal at sea.

Captain Grewill and the rest of his eleven crew members are reported dead. Also reported dead is the beloved druid Arbat, well known for the aid she has given to farmers with their crops over the years. She will be sorely missed.

Duskfall?

Your intrepid reporter has heard rumblings of a Temple at Duskfall. After reviewing these rumors with the Librarians of Unre, there are no records of a location called Duskfall nor a Temple called anything similar. When one cleric came to interject, mentioning something about planes, I was roughly shoved out of the room. Perhaps there is more to this Duskfall that a local Tuxedo Tabaxi was asking about. I will not rest until I find out more!

Bradford Ascends to Council Position!

Malcolm Bradford, wealthy philanthropist and businessman, shocked attendees of his most recent social gathering with a lengthy diatribe that indicted the council for inaction in the face of numerous external threats. He made the case for raising a properly equipped army, and also made the unprecedented request to be allowed on the council to take command of this new force.

Sources present at the party witnessed the council withdraw to chambers to deliberate, but the calm was shattered when a brazen assassin attempted to kill Bradford in the middle of his own dining hall. Luckily, a band of hardened adventurers were present at the gathering, and quickly tracked down the assailant and delivered swift justice.

The council, spurred on by the violence of the night, quickly confirmed Bradford to the council, and bestowed upon him the title of Commander. He is now in charge of raising a force capable of fighting off the threats rising to our north and west, and rumors from the guard say he is already mobilizing resources to properly train and equip the army.

When asked for comment, Bradford expressed his deepest thanks and gratitude for those who supported him as well as saying, “Too long has the council sat idle while threats rose around us. No more! I will keep us all safe, and eradicate all those who would see us come to harm!”

One of his first acts as Commander was to retain the services of a sorcerer named Ezra as a military advisor. The sorcerer is well known as of one of the adventurers who saved Bradford from the clutches of fiends two months ago, and who again helped during this night that saw Bradford’s ascension to power.

Demon Threat Eradicated

A band of adventurers have reportedly found a portal to the lower planes near Stromsburg’s farm to the west of Brightshore. They bravely faced down the evil fiends, and are said to have destroyed the portal, though not without their own losses.

Binval, a warlock of some renown here in the city, selflessly gave his life to ensure the threat would be ended. Though we mourn his passing, we are grateful that the demons no longer present a threat.

Commander Bradford has promised to hunt down any stragglers that remain on this side of the portal as soon as possible.

Newcomers bring new tales and secrets!

It seems as though Captain Sol has made it back in time to train a new crew, and brought with him a number of new colonists! All of them seem ready for the hard work that we are known for, but a variety of skills from fishing to archery. Rumor is, one of them even has a magical book with them that they are studying at the Temples. Your brave and intrepid reporter will find out more!

The Three Triumphs of Ava, A Review by Beryl

As the owner of the premier theatrical venue in Brightshore, I’ve been honored to see many of Ms. Oneshoe’s productions and her latest has not disappointed. While I will confess that I am generally not of a religious bent, I was captivated by the intensity of the action scenes and the careful respect given to the dialogue. I’d like to also give my most sincere congratulations to the Wink and Whistle’s own Olivia Nochten, who gave a passionate, if occasionally overeager, performance. I’m sure once you’ve gotten over your nerves, you’ll become quite the regular on our stage.

But I’ve teased you all long enough, the true triumphs of for Ava this time were the inspired special effects. The use of the <i>faerie fire</i> spell to capture the beauty of the third act was breathtaking. Of course, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the spectacle of having a live Griffon for acts one and two. My most thunderous applause to the heroic adventurers who delivered this magnificent treat to our city.

If you’ll forgive the pun, this wasn’t all sunshine for the temple. Mr. Thornog’s portrayal of Menran left much to be desired, and the disruptions from the crowd were unseemly. I don’t know what that crazed stagestormer meant by “a child claiming her mother’s deeds” but his ravings certainly seemed childish to this critic.

In short, be sure to catch a performance before the festival ends. I give “The Three Triumphs of Ava” 3 winks out of 5.

From the Desk of Yeoman Selene
First Tower District Plot in Private Ownership

After reviewing the excellent works of Galvan and his requests for a plot to be close to the Council to better serve Brightshore, the Council has approved his request to purchase 1 Eastwind. As some may recognize, this plot has a few ruins, including some stable structures, as well as space for a garden and a second, smaller building. Galvan has committed to improving this building to be a gem in the Tower District, including hiring local workers.

We look forward to the continual improvements the good knight provides to our colony!

HELP WANTED

Want to learn about medicine and natural remedies? Talk to Thorin over at the Wink and Whistle or in the Tower district. Hard workers only!

Notice

The Bay will be closed for naval training activities as Captain Sol and the other Brightshore captains train new crews. These activities will take place in the bay and may include use of ballista, sword-fighting on ships, night movement, and practical swimming exercises.

Any complaints should be directed to Harbormaster Solsson.

Peaceful Rest Once More

The nightly wailing that has plagued our fair town has been resolved. Apparently a ghostly lady lost her doll and was looking for it. This also apparently solves the most recent break-in at Sweets Smithy as someone foisted the ghost’s problem on him by leaving the doll in his shop. Hopefully, with some new locks on his door, One-Eye will finally get some shut-eye.

Adventurers Return from Ruins Bruised and Sopping Wet

The guards at the Brightshore Bridge noted that a few adventures ignored their warnings and went into the ruined city. Errol Twice-Blessed and Ezra were among their number as was a newcomer named Grimm, who looked familiar to some of the guard, and a tabaxi warrior. They claimed to have gotten into a fight with some goblins and returned a couple hours later soaking wet with quite a few scrapes and bruises. The tabaxi in particular looked rather unhappy at their situation.

Ancient Library Found

An ancient library was reportedly found within ruins to the north. The council has said little about what was found within, but sources have said that scholars have recently come into possession of a great epic play written by a poet named Latoro.

The play, which is said to date to an ancient period of Brightshore’s history, details the heroics of King Oefelion, possibly a mythological figure. Professor Colin refused to comment on the existence or the nature of the play.

Northern Wilds Grow More Dangerous

The Council has advised against further expeditions or travel to the forests north of Brightshore. Goblin and bugbear forces have been spotted in great numbers there.

Around Town

There are two new bards performing at the Wink and Whistle. They arrived days ago aboard the Tide Dancer, and have quickly made a name for themselves with their cheerful melodies and unusual instruments.

In related news, the guard seeks another passenger who arrived at the same time for assaulting Ulver of the Nicked Rock. Eyewitnesses said that the aasimar muttered something about the Rock being a scam after failing to dent it, and that the she stormed out before fleeing the guard.

Murderer Remains on the Loose

A spate of murders and disappearance have rocked the tower district this past month, as have allegations that the guard sought to downplay the severity of the cases. The guard had the culprit in hand when a wagon accident on the way to the execution allowed the culprit to again escape into the city.

The guard frantically combs the streets while residents in the Tower District keep their window lockup up tight.

To make matters worse, Yeoman Selene has been seen re-allocating guards to the outer city gates, and has been sending scouting patrols outside of the city. Perhaps she too hunts for the culprit, but merchants are beginning to complain about having their wagons searched for no apparent reason.

More fiends in the Outskirts

Farms to the west of the city continue to report attacks by a fiendish diabolical cult of red and green madmen. Farms have been razed and fields have been burned, and farmers’ pleas for protection seem to have fallen on deaf ears as the city guard tends to the rebuilding of River District and the search for the Tower District Terror.

New rumors from those who said that they managed to escape the mindless slaughter say that the devils can change shape and can assume any form human or animal, and that many innocent lives have been lost to the foul creatures.

Bradford’s Song
As performed by Hector the Bard at the Wink and Whistle

Swift toward the Hellion’s Mouth they rode, the party o’ Sir Galvin Gost.
Fleet time they made through farmers’ fields, but oh my at what cost?

A goliath’s blade, Karst the shamed, this butcher slaughters many.
At Ezra’s call, these peasants fall, the blue blood gives not a penny.

Maevis the beauty, a peculiar duty, the dancer asks for this violence to end.
Not so cold, never in it for gold, my lord cries that the party rescind.

Thrall the Stout, with commoner’s clout, leads our heroes to Stromburg’s stay.
Errol Twice-Blessed, now cursed like the rest, feels the gaze of his gods turn away.

Cider in belly, served toast and jelly, off to find Bradford the generous.
Not just a vandal, a scandal I’d say, no help received from his butler the venerous.

They found devils and orcs, dodged spears and forks, our noble friends enter the mouth of the cave.
They burned down the wild, albeit this time t’was mild, how many men would they save?

A demon danced, goliath advanced, nobility demonstrated propensity for rule.
prayer fell on deaf ears, the worst of his fears, a cleric exposed bare as a fool.

The lord was saved, his path was paved, Karst journeyed the highborn’s return.
Something undone, deeper they’d run, their mission could not yet adjourn.

Deeper four crawled, mauled and appalled, a legion of fiends lay in wait.
Uncalled but unwalled, Galvin drawled and then stalled, with Errol he closed up the gate.

Remember Galvan the knight, keeper of light, noble among nobles esteemed.
and Errol Twice-Blessed, though a time once hexed, now and for always redeemed.

Giant Felled in Single Combat!

If you’ve stopped in to the Nicked Rock at all this past month, you’ve likely heard Jerom Huecloak performing his new work, The Ballad of Errol Twice-Blessed. The minstrel’s tale tells the story of how the Twice-Blessed single-handedly felled the goliath of a man known as Bullas the Strong, and if you’re lucky you may even hear the Twice-Blessed himself recounting the tale.

The hammer once wielded by Bullas can be found on display in the Chateau of Wonderment, admission price 2 cp, no refunds.

Harpy Threat Eliminated?

A harpy was rumored to have been spotted at one of the outlying houses in the farmlands, though authorities assure us that a capable group of adventurers swore vengeance upon the foul beasts. The group tracked down the remaining harpies in their nest, and put them to the sword.

Some sources indicate that the harpies had captured an elven child and kept her as their own. Accounts differ as to the elf’s state of mind, but Abigail Farnsworth said, “She looked feral to my eyes, barely even elven. If you ask me, they should have done her like they done the harpies, likely to cause even more trouble she is.”

The guard assures us that matters are well in hand.

From the Desk of Yeoman Selene
For submission to Council Records

As the council is aware, the Luminaire had resisted all attempts at entry, both mundane and magical. Due to this failure, a bounty was posted for any that might be able to gain entry, provided that any contents of interest were to be turned over to the city.

A group of adventurers, headed by one who claimed to be the Twice-Blessed, managed to gain entry to the ship. Shortly thereafter, unusual sounds that may have been of battle were heard from inside the ship, though the adventurers departed before a suitable contingent of guards could be mustered to investigate.

Upon leaving the ship, the party claimed to have recovered nothing of value except one tarnished copper crown and an unusual candle. When the guard did arrive to search the ship in greater detail, a large, empty, opened treasure chest was found inside, which calls into question the veracity of the adventurers’ tale. They are being sought for further questioning, including the one who likely falsely impersonated the Twice-Blessed.

Additionally, the ship appears to be sea-worthy, and with some refits to the main mast, sails, and weapons deck, it would be a fine addition to our coastal defense fleet. Clerics have noted a trace of necromantic magic on board, but are confident it can be purified in time. The hull itself remains remarkably resilient, particularly to magic.

Respectfully,
Selene

Errol Twice-Blessed

As performed by Minstrel Jerom Huecloak

Survived as a “heretic” across the mists and sea
A more nobler man there could ever be!
Those Vessar fool called him Errol, at best.
But here was know him truly as Errol Twice-Blessed!
A hammer came to Brightshore with a dark, murderous game
Along with a lone halfling to take all the blame.
He gambled against Twice-Blessed, the Holy
To wit, it would be the giant’s last folly.
All four gods did reach down with grace
Errol stood in light, a smiling saint’s face
As the titan wielding his might maul came near
It was only the titan who felt fear.
Ere did the hammer fall left and right
Errol responding with only divine light
When his armor was rent, beyond the skill of any mender
Twice-blessed offer the foul giant a chance at surrender.
The fool laughed, raising his hammer to clouds
Twice-Blessed struck, echoing divine sound
With a single strike, mighty as a bull
The only thing left of Errol’s foe was a skull
He gifted the hammer, taking a few copper- a price most fair
The followed up to the Rock to lead those in holy prayer
His second blessing would come as he tried to aid another soul
He came to find the halfling, jumping off the hull.
As he rescued the halfling using all of his might
The traitorous rogue began to fight!
Forced into the sea, in armor, with a stagger
The wicked halfling stood in with a dagger
When it seemed that all would end in the bay
The gods blessed him again that day!
Shedding material armor for the blessing of light
He ascended to the surface like an angel in flight
The halfling collapses into the sea like a stone
For the Errol’s return shook him to the bone
Instead of letting him go to Unre’s final land
Errol threw the unredeemed onto Brightshore’s sand
“A mercy!” they cried “It’s far too week!”
“Justice” Errol replied “Is not for the meek”
A hero reborn of our great city’s sea
A hero for all people, you and me
A hero with all the traits most best
A double toast, for Errol Twice-Blessed!

From the desk of Yeoman Selene
For Submission to Council Records

Recently, the esteemed Captain Sol Hafthorsson returned from a trip through the mists. On the first day of Unicus, the CS Lewis hobbled into harbor, clearly damaged and stressed from the journey. The CS Lewis was guided to the Drydocks for repair by several smaller ships.

Captain Sol brought along some new colonials, including a new tailor, carpenter, and possible new navigator, judging by the hat on the pink Kobold. Marshal Veil assigned them rooms in the barracks while the Wink and Whistle was still closed from the minor fire during the recent production of “The Third Winter”.

According to the new members, they encountered the long-lost Applegate which was possessed by a ghostly Captain Tuff, who was laid to rest at sea. In addition, the mists allegedly smelled strongly of odors they did not wish to name, they were attacked by an illusion of a big fish, and a kraken or squid of sorts attempted to pull down the ship.

Although the CS Lewis did appear to sustain some stress damage, it is difficult to corroborate the stories.

It is thereby recommended that the new colonists be introduced to the jobs available and be allowed to ply their trades with need of repayment, and that the CS Lewis be repaired at cost to Captain Sol.

Respectfully
Selene

Tide Dancer Hauls Hulk

Brightshore has been abuzz with the unusual ship that was towed into port by Captain Gombold of the Tide Dancer. A flamboyant cleric named Errol was overheard in the Nicked Rock, claiming that during the journey through the Fog, the Tide Dancer and her crew braved a tide of skeletons and hordes of giant spiders before finally encountering what appears to be an ancient derelict. Other crew members confirmed the apparent tall-tales, and a handful of gamblers were heard praising the actions of a sorcerer by the name of Ezra. They said, “Aye, he helped burn us through the Fog, but nearly burned the ship with it!”

The ship is of a type never before seen, and it marks the first time since Brightshore’s founding that anything of value was recovered from the Fog. As for the ship itself, no one has yet gained entry to determine what lies within. Emblazoned with archaic Dwarven runes on the bow that read “Luminaire,” the unusual closed deck design of the vessel has thus far resisted all attempts at entry. It is said that the Captain of the Guard is seeking able adventurers to investigate further. Dockhands report hearing unusual noises coming from the ship, but local gossips insist that it’s the sound of long lost treasure rattling around in the hulk waiting to be found!

When asked about the loss of so many crew members during the crossing, Captain Gombold simply shrugged and went back to his cups, and the other crew members hastily made signs to ward off evil before refusing to talk to us. No bodies were recovered and were presumably laid to rest with honors at sea.

Feral Elf Brought to Brightshore

Captain Marxa and the Eel made shore with some more newcomers to our fair city, including a sword-swallowing tiefling who drew large crowds at the Wink and Whistle Tavern.

The tiefling, accompanied by five other adventurers, did not long linger at the tavern and instead set out to resolve one of Brightshore’s oldest tragedies. For 18 long years, we’ve all seen the forlorn posting at the Crossroads about an elven child lost at sea during a storm. Undaunted by the derision of locals who mocked their hubris, the adventurers again set out on the Eel with Captain Marxa on a voyage to Lookout Island.

The Eel returned to Brightshore a few days later. Rumor has it that the newcomers were towing a strange elf woman with them (some suppose a native of the island that they’d taken prisoner, others say she is the child who was lost at sea). She was covered from head to toe in filth and seemed to be completely feral, shrieking and scratching as they dragged her from the ship. No one knows what they’re planning to do with her, but most say no good can come from this.

Gliftrix, Editor in Chief