Probing Inquiries

From time to time, adventurers may wish to seek out information otherwise not known or obtainable to them through their general journeys and adventures. While some may seek out studious environments from which to do so, depending on the nature of the information sought, a character might instead want to spend some time probing for rumours and tales in person instead of consulting historical tomes, instead using their downtime to mill around a location asking about the local populace directly.

## The Bastion of Kebes (Amber Run-based)

### Inquiry by Timbermitt - 135WD, Pinnul-Greencrown

[...*"ruins all about these parts, quiet and abandoned things. Some of them were probably bastions and keeps in their time, to keep the baddies out, or mark the boundaries of the Realms. Don't remember any places called Kebes though, certainly doesn't sound like a river or mountain to me. But then again, as isolated as they are, I suppose that kind of information gets lost with time - not like you can ask the stones though aha!"*...]

[...*"crossed paths with a merchant with a name like that at Hobs' Fall a few months back. Bold and brash, had plenty of coin to spend, made it trading in Rydoon, said he'd had a bumper crop this year already, even with the turn of Whiterose to Greencrown only recently upon us. Given the size of his belly, it seemed he'd probably eaten half of it already too, aha. Oh, wait, you said you were looking for Giobes, right? No? Well, sorry, all those Concord names sound the same to my ears"*...]

## Bemna's Whereabouts (Snowdrift Respite-based)

### Inquiry by Adrian Frostbrooke - 135WD, Pinnul-Greencrown

[...*"Lyam's wife, right? Terrible news what happened to him, but I ain't seen her around here recently either. Sure, they didn't spend much time at the Respite, but they were regular enough about it, every month or so. Fair prices for their produce, rarely found themselves having to argue the toss with anyone because we knew they had treated things right. If you do see her about sometime, let her know that there is a cup of Cloudberry Mulch waiting for her anytime, even if she doesn't want to talk about Lyam, you know"*...]

[...*"there isn't any value in dancing around a difficult truth, sometimes you simply got to face it head on, give it a moment to mull, then drink it down quick and clean. She vanished in a blizzard you say, and it has been months since? She's not coming back, sorry, whether some beast, or the elements themselves, travelling alone in these lands is perilous at the best of times. All it would take is one slip up in the miles and miles of icy dales, snow-laden valleys and frigid forests and that's that. And I reckon that is indeed that, my condolences"*...]

## Brightember Sightings (Khonoldhur-based)

### Inquiry by Rover Custard Augustine - 134WD, Glede-Amberlight

[*..."myself and a few other folks from the caravan were travelling by means of the mountain passes, really narrow and winding things, but the some folks will pay real well for a Terrorwing egg from the Halmbrae Hills so it is worth the risk. I remember it, clear as day, seeing a shadow looming in the distance, flying quick and swift. No sooner had I called for us to veer off the road, trying to shelter in the shadow of the cliff face did another beast come, chasing the first. Bright as the sun, it wreathed the first in flame, sending it screaming all the way until it shattered and broke on the ground. I prayed to Emes that we'd remain unseen, and when we finally emerged from the crag's undercut there was no further sign. The smouldering roc that nearly crushed us but instead fell to block the path ahead proved more of challenge to navigate however, took us the best part of a day to shift it so we could continue onwards, looking over our shoulder all the way"...*]

[*..."came across a camp of prospectors on my journey up to this shrine my family has visited for generations. Spotted it from afar, lazy trails of thick black smoke against the morning sky. It was a scene of desolation, stacks of furs still smouldering, and a great big cage torn open at the centre. Must of have been something proper strong, I assumed, given the way the metal had warped and twisted. Found one survivor, blackened and crisp in his death throes, muttering something about how they never should have tried it, of course the big one would given chase after its kin. I eased his pain with some Dawn Matron's Embrace's I kept on my person in case of emergencies, though their final words were filled with fear and terror all the same, of red scales and twisted horns"...*]

[*..."bartered with something like that yeah. Swooped down from a cliff top, demanding our strongest horse, for they had a hunger. Said they'd only take one, so that we could continue on our way without issue, presented it like some kind of mercy. We didn't question it much, taking it as a mercy as offered as the evening sun shone across their scales, and so took the saddle off Chant and let it have its way. Oh, on second thought, maybe its scales weren't red - that was what you were after, right? It was one of those evenings, trails of colour in the sky, and the way those scales shone, I wouldn't be able to say for sure - red, orange, brown, sorry"...*]

## Brightember Sightings (Villages of the Central Ironfangs-based)

### Inquiry by Rover Custard Augustine - 134WD, Glede-Amberlight

[...*"there was a creature of that description, yes, intimidating as anything, with twisted and wicked horns like some kind of devil. We were doing well at that time, big flocks of sheep grazing in the highlands around the village, that kind of thing. We've always come to expect a few to go from time to time, picked off by predators, whether they swoop down from above, run alongside the herd or launch themselves from below. Made off with the best part of three-quarters of the flock it did, and it was a big thing, but surely no creature has appetite as large as that, however broad its maw. Fortunately we had enough ewes remaining that we've managed to replenish the numbers again, but it set us back for a time, to be sure"*...]

[...*"a friend of mine had a narrow run in with that flaming foe, he says. Now, I don't assume to know what he was doing travelling as far east as Mount Durnach, but he says that he spied a ruddy great winged creature circling the smouldering peak of the mount, before watching it set down atop a pile of bones, using them to pick at their teeth before burning in all-consuming fire what remained to ash. On the way, he'd passed a pair of villages that had been fully populated by a few weeks later, houses intact by empty - and in doing surely found his answer"*...]

[..*."we've been waiting for a shipment from the west for a while to restock the member of the Matron House residing nearby and rumours have been circling that it got disrupted when a dragon flew overhead, sending the couriers fleeing the other way. We set out to find the packages for ourselves, given that it contained all manner of medicinal herbs - even some Alicorn Bee Propolis if the tales are to believed! When we finally found where the couriers dropped it, we found nothing but the charred remains of a clan of goliaths scattered across the mountainside, with no sign of the package itself"*...]

## Connections of the Material Plane to Salsevain Hollow (Cal Araenora-based)

### Inquiry by Enor - 135 WD, Otealt-Greencrown

[...*"by their very nature, most domains thrum with enough innate magic that they can form connections. My grandfather always said it was a bit like a path, dotted with stones. The sturdier and larger the stone, the more you feel it underfoot. I'd imagine it is probably a like-for-like type thing in that case then, quiet groves, frozen waterfalls, at the heart of a snowdrift. Could be anything of that sort, on the Material Plane or elsewhere in the Wandering Worlds, but I wouldn't know, wrong side of the continent for that"*...]

## Dane's Private Investigator (Amber Run-based)

### Inquiry by Dane Evergreen - 132WD, Ardor-Amberlight

[*..."one of your curious companions, the high elf, has a habit of leaving in the middle of the night, strolling off into the woodland to the north of the settlement. After about four or five hours he returns, his hands often bloodied and his hair streaked with grime. One time, he did so carrying a iron shovel, but did not return with it when I spotted him at the boundary of the town later"...*]

[*..."late one evening, and early the following morning I spied a pompous looking individual from out of town peering in through the windows of the Wild Cape, though as a gnomish individual they certainly strained to do so, given the height of the windows. Just shy of three feet, spoke in an Atral accent as he grumbled back towards across the bridge over the river. While I cannot say for certain, I'm certain he then visited the shop later that same following day, making a purchase"...*]

[*..."more and more guards have been patrolling around the settlement recently, no doubt spurned by the incidents of theft at Skålhalla, as well as in response to as of yet unfounded rumours the Lightfingers may have been seized control of the marketplace in the centre of town, first established by your recently fallen companion. A number of the guards will surely be seeking rapid promotion in these new playgrounds of theirs, and so may have been seeking to investigate alone, outside of official legal boundaries"...*]

[*..."naturally my interest drifted to your colourful retinue of companions who barely leave the vicinity of yourself and your lady wife. In doing so, I discovered the drow, Henrik, has been sending his portion of profits made by your assorted endeavours alongside a series of letters via the system recently installed by the Galeriders at the centre of town. I haven't yet managed to acquire one, but they have all been sent to a contact in Viridell, I gather"...*]

## Fey-Derived Intel on Acherontia (Greater Greensong-based)

### Inquiry by Arnica - 132WD, Loghelt-Amberlight

*[..."water flows downhill, mud and silt is carried upon it. But one of the tributaries in the marshes of the singing forest's younger sibling spreads more than grime. Trees twist, leaves leer, boils burst in place of fresh blooms. The beasts of the forest flee, lest they find themselves sealed as a feast for the chrysalis at its depths. The gentle warmth may feel welcome in the air, but it is a foul air, with sickness hidden beneath the sweet and sultry"...]*

## Flying Mounts (Aviacrest-based)

### Inquiry by Arnica and Ashewan Norvegicus- 134WD, Glede-Amberlight

[...*"not entirely sure who the Feather Fall use to breed their griffons and welkins, but they train them pretty well, good around the people, never lashing out, that kind of thing. Surely there would be those beasts that they struggle to do that with though, might be flogging them off cheap to get rid of the poorly behaved ones, even if the city watch doesn't like that kind of thing on account of the chaos a misbehaving monster might invariably cause, aha!"*...]

[...*"heard about some halfling chap that sometimes makes the rounds at Lemontree Square selling mounts to the well-to-dos wanting to be able to navigate the isles of the city faster. Its alright for the winged folk, but for the rest of us it can grow a bit tiresome climbing all those winding stairs all the times, so he always finds good business when he does. Takes him time to replenish his stock, says he's got some breeding ground set up in the Halmbrae Hills, and so tends to only swing around every few months. Haven't seen him for a few months though, I must say, so might be any time soon"*...]

## Flying Mounts (Khonoldhur-based)

### Inquiry by Arnica and Ashewan Norvegicus- 134WD, Glede-Amberlight

[..*."oh, you'd be looking for Makzor. Big brutish looking chap, though sweet as anything around his beasts. Calls them his children, and he has a lot of them that keep him comfortable when the wintery cold starts to blow through the Climb. Big ones with feathers, ones that love nothing more than bashing their heads together, others that look at you as if they want to gobble up your guts when you ain't looking. Not that they ever would though, he trains them well, but as he's like to say, you can't just buy someone's children for a light pouch of coin"*...]

[...*"ha, well if you are looking for something to get you away from Khonoldhur, whether north, south, west or east, be the mount fleet of foot or wing, then surely Beivailur's your man. Always returning from the Shifting Dunes with some oddity that he reckons he can strap a saddle too, or some egg that he jokes he'll sit on until it hatches. Of course sometimes mother comes chasing after her young, but he'll throw in a pointed stick too to shoo them away if you ask nice enough, I'm sure. Just don't mention the business with Emgromn though, or he'll like charge you triple for the trouble"*...]

## Gathering Information on the Thrice-Damned (Viridell-based)

### Inquiry by Ashewan Norvegicus - 134WD, Gantul-Whiterose

[...*"isn't that their whole thing though, rejecting authority? Embracing chaos, shunning law and engaging in all things piratical and illicit. They call themselves an organisation, a nation, but they aren't either of those things. They are all bandits that revel in preying on those that work hard, taking what they have not the strength or intelligence to gather, create or cultivate for themselves. Regardless of what captain they follow, they do not nothing but bicker and argue over their ill-gotten gains - and when arguments don't solve it, they'll be at each others throats with blades, no doubt"*...]

[...*"I've heard that there are hundreds of ships, everything from skiffs to full-size warships that they seek to use to rival the Triumvirs on the waves. No wonder Xaldir and the others paid off the dragon turtles to go attack them, keep them in check - know what I'm saying? Perhaps one of these days we'll hear news that one of them has gobbled down one of the most troublesome amongst their ships. The Wolffish, the Varlet, the Crescendo, all have got quite the bounty on them nowadays".*..]

[...*(following several seconds of heavy laughter)..."oh, you are serious?! If I knew, I wouldn't be hawking trinkets to visitors to the Perchance Port, boy-o. I'd be right up to Old Alycon to visit the Lapidarium. The Triumvirs would probably play a bag of gemstones for every ship they managed to sink acting on that information!"*...]

## Giant Crab Attacks (Rydoon-based)

### Inquiry by Moxzi Bluhedd - 135WD, Pinnul-Greencrown

[...*"my brother nearly lost a leg to the beast. Monstrous it was, with claws enough to cut someone in half, wide enough to pin the two pieces in place before casting them through the air. It latched onto their ship with its mighty jaws, eating its way through the hull, spilling cargo and people alike into the water as the vessel was torn beneath the depths. He said that it took the figurehead of the ship as a trophy, pinning it to its shell, and there were dozens of others there, a patchwork of twisted metal and rotten wood. Lucky bastard said he managed to cling out of sight on a piece of wreckage, then swam all the way back to the shore. Tell you what though, the tavern folk love the tale, said he's never made as much coin peddling his songs before, aha"*...]

[...*"oh, the Bay is an accursed place for the greedy and avaricious, for certain. Its got a long standing history of it, anyone that has engaged with the histories of the Realm of the Giado Territories will tell you. The Giadoese respected the Bay, just as the merfolk and sea elves that resided within it did so too. One day a particularly rapacious fisher came along, making off with a monstrous hoard of shellfish, crabs and fish, and all around the Bay suffered for it, and the Bay did too. It was said that a priest that resided beneath the waves brought down a mighty curse that day on any that would act with greed, and so the punishment continues to this day. Fisherfolk still offer up the first catch of the day to this day to show their meekness, and there is wisdom in such an act, as the histories proclaim"*...]

[...*"superstitious folk are like to evoke curses and hearsay in any which case. The waters of the Bay are tumultuous, and there are surely those that use that to their advantage. Corsairs and raiders steal across the waters towards the juiciest of prizes, as they do across the world, then hide beneath the veneer of ghost tales. The Archonos has a great deal on his plate already, and seems to be doing a fine joy balancing it all - we don't have time to ensure that self-serving money-grabbers don't get caught out by a winter gale or pirates"*...]

## Goings-ons in Redbloom (Redbloom-based)

### Inquiry by Moxzi - 136WD, Gantul-Whiterose

[...*"there was a huge bar fight at the Wand and Quill a few nights ago, started between students from the two sides of the College. Of course there is nothing official, but there are rivalries between the Schools of Evocation and Transmutation, particularly in the latter years of their training. Supposedly there was a disagreement on the interpretation on some divination granted for Augur at the start of the month, and then the spellslingers started doing what they do best - slinging spells. Caused a few hundred gold pieces worth of damage at the very least, I heard"*...]

[...*"Marquis Alcourt was in the city for a short visit a couple months ago, brought a huge retinue with him as he's known to do. Spent a lot of time at the Vardon Pavilion, discussing and doing whatever it is the nobles discuss and do in their fancy courts. He did then make his way round much of the rest of the city, stopped at the College for a few days, sat in on some lectures - along with the Gilded Guards following him around - and paid visits to shops and taverns, though never seemed to eat, drink or even touch anything, always had someone else to do that kind of thing"*...]

[...*"We've had a few disappearances from amongst the more senior students over the last year, and even one of the professors - Ylomyn Boonspan - who taught classes about the intrinsic links between arcane magic and historical art pieces - and so a full investigation was launched, fearing foul play. In the end, it turned out all had been recruited by the Tethered Harness, headhunted for their school. Naturally the Archmages were incensed, and talks between them and the Quantos Prime are ongoing"*...]

[...*"In a few days the students will learn who has won the Lorin Grant, given to the most promising individuals that have just finished their martial training to become official Spellslingers. It recognises those that have already started to embody the Virtues, and surely have a bright future ahead of them. Marquis Verninac offers up scholarships, grants and prizes too, but the Charbafosses are always very generous with their offerings too, so it is always hotly contested - not that the runners-up find themselves lacking for employment prospects either"*...]

## Gnoll Camps/Goings-On in the Bristlebacks (Hobs' Fall-based)

### Inquiry by Elinor - 135WD, Gantul-Whiterose

[...*"reports from Melcreek are mixed. The hills have grown quiet, the clamour and call of gnoll howls has definitively fallen near absent, save a few stray minor camps filled with nothing more than lurching hunters and covert outriders. The Silvertowers have seized the opportunity, creating dozens of new watchtowers throughout the region, stretching to the northern tip of the mountains beyond the Heartsword Pass, and deep into the mountains themselves. Orders are being made to start their garrison promptly"*...

*..."elsewhere though, it is like the mountains themselves are growing increasingly hostile in themselves. True to their name, each day is prone to bring new bristles that fall underfoot, straining the backs of those that travel. Trees have started to grow bark covered in spines like the cacti of the Shifting Dunes, even the native beasts are growing increasingly vicious. A few months ago, a patrol encountered a monstrous bear that had slain a entire herd of deer, far more than it needed to eat, even anticipating their habit to bulk before hibernation. And that's it, not all of them are hibernating, instead roaming through snow, ice and dirt"...*

*..."we received a report from a herbalist residing but a few days partway between Melcreek and Amber Run. Said they'd discovered some new plant, said it was similar to Blight Yarrow, but the colouration was all wrong, and it seemingly had no way of producing fruit, despite the long Amberlight months. I'll check in next time I have chance to swing by, see if I can persuade Muguet to share some of the Bluecrown he makes from his herd of goats. Exceptional with an Allizeaux, I assure you"...*

...*"fortunately for us, the small earthquake that rumbled through the Bristlebacks from the north didn't seem to travel that far. Certainly only passingly felt it in Hobs' Fall, may have been nothing more than like the sound of thunder in the night in Amber Run. Got a few colleagues that work to protect the trade caravans passing through the Pass, said that the orc, goliath and ogre tribes had grown restless since though, some of their valleys collapsing into vast rockslides that have damaged their holdings. Thankfully, they don't seem to be venturing far, just raiding for things that they seem to need to help them rebuild rather than anything truly malicious. Well, mostly."*...]

## Gnoll Camps (Rydoon-based, Specifically Tinia paa Wormswoe)

### Inquiry by Ashewan Norvegicus - 135WD, Gantul-Whiterose

[...*"oddly enough, the festering hides of those monsters has been cast far and wide from my mind of late. Odd that, huh? A third of your home city population gets turned into dust, not even that, in nothing, and suddenly your focus finds itself shifted. And what for, saved from tragedy by a tragedy. Now, every yearning of the Battlemistress' breath within me stirs to stroll out as I once could, Hivebreaker and shield in hand, cutting down brigands and monstrosities freely and readily. I've got a city to rebuild, we all have. This side of the Bristlebacks the wounds still bleed, and save a few scattered few keeping to your Atral tenets of vigilance, we stand here together, not amongst jagged peaks looking for scraps of savages"*...]

## Grumebract Sightings in the Aethelweld (Velenthir Estate-based)

### Inquiry by Cassiope Winterthorne - 136WD, Onteer-Greencrown

[..."*can you describe what it looks like? Red, cream, about this tall, grows in darker spaces? You sure it isn’t a mushroom of some kind you are looking for? You’ve got agarics, panther caps, apple bolete, ox tongues, maple brackets, all have that kind of look. Of course you’ve got to be careful with which ones you eat, but some of us are more resilient to those kind of problems anyway, but many of them can be delicious if you know what you are doing - and a few others besides make the most wonderfully relaxing and mind-expanding teas if you brew them just right. I can show you if you want, no bother at all!*"...]

[..."*that’s the stuff that they were saying was used to corrupt a load of dryads in Cal Araenora and the surrounding area, wasn’t it? Who’d ever do such a thing? It is one thing to destroy a heart tree, to twist and corrupt it surely doesn’t do anything but cause pain and madness. No good-meaning individual should have any reason to grow such a thing, and by the Lord in the Quiet Places nature itself rejects its growth - you could get the finest soil, rich and fertile, and it’d never take root*"...]

[..."*not had much of a chance to roam about to keep an eye out for anything like recently. Me and a few folks have found ourselves busy in the Candlegrove, keeping an eye on those new lumberers from Whittengrove. In the past the Oathsworn have been particular with the terms of their activities, but obviously that hasn’t been the case for the last year or so, and now they are growing bolder, taking more than they had before, whether the trees, or the animals residing amongst them. There is great demand for both in Whittengrove at present, I’d wager, and they are trying to get in on the rush*"...]

[..."*foul stuff, wretched and cruel. We were involved in cleaning out a den used by a trio of hags - the Fell Light Flame they called themselves - and they were growing it from the bones of, well, anything they could catch. Beasts, monstrosities, a few good and honest folk. We managed to save a few, but most were too far gone once I and the rest of the Shiere Knights reached them, or had already gone. Supposedly the Grumebract is stronger and more potent the more the creature afflicted is aware of it, so those from humanoids are best, but we cared not for the details. We burned it all, Flame destroyed in flame. I’ve not crossed paths with it since, and I’m thankful for that*"...]

## Hag Activity in Ahlus (Cal Araenora-based)

### Inquiry by Enor - 135 WD, Otealt-Greencrown

[...*"by chance I crossed paths with a few folks that had ties with the Wavecrest. The Archfey had been offering aid to a group of Sea Elves somewhere far to the south, deep in the Cobalt Sea that had found themselves assailed by a huge force of malign folks, augmented by beasties with too many eyes, dozens of tentacles and long needle-like teeth, all commanded by a powerful sea hag. The Dreaded, she was called, I think. Don't hear much about the sea this far inland, but it is certainly hasn't sold it to me. Quite happy on dry land for the time being, or at the very least a pond in which I can see the base"*...]

[...*"well, they are as much a feyfolk as an eladrin is, or a pixie. Could be anywhere, up to much and more. Some like mountains and hills, some frost and snow, some just forests, or rugged coastlines. There are a few that prefer cities, I'm sure you could find a few throughout the settlements of the Aethelwald. I'm sick and tired of folks just assuming - perhaps it made be typical and common, but it doesn't represent each and every case. Respond to actions, not thoughts, appearance or nature. My sweet Ruha wouldn't be still with me without the help of Singing Myrta and her healing arts. Didn't even have to leave the Cal"*...]

[...*"ha, fortunately I haven't crossed paths with any hags of late, praise the Walking One! You and the other Shiere Knights are good at keeping such things in check, of course, but there is plenty to keep you busy, no? Between that dryad that went rampaging about a year or so ago, the windows in the Golden Copse shattering onto the crowds below, that fiasco at the wedding between whatshisface and umm..., and then the Wayward Blossoms seem, well, more wayward than usual too - very busy indeed!"*...]

## Hexbloods of Note in Ahlus (Whittengrove-based)

### Inquiry by Arnica - 133WD, Jas-Greencrown

[...”*not too many of them out and about all in all. I mean, the forest folk of the Aethelwald certainly have a few that look that way, thorns, branches, leaves, that kind of thing, but that might just be part of their aesthetic I suppose. Either that or they just went through a bush and hadn’t had a chance to tidy themselves up yet - no offence of course! But more seriously, there was one such lass, green of skin, piercing spring eyes, bark in patches here and there, acted as an envoy from the Vigil of Blinkwind while I was in the area*”...]

[...”*I’ve heard there is a Cleric of Iotl in the city that claims to be able to cure folk like that of their lineage. They can’t restore what was lost, they say, but can remove what still lingers. Some fellow was raving about them after they managed to exorcise a fiendish presence from their family dog, and promised their aid could help in other ways too*”...]

[...”*ooooh, you’ll be wanting after Lady Maliskha of the Wickerbasket. All the Outer City and half of the Farmhand’s Ward go to her with little things here and there - and folk of high status besides for the more juicy titbits to chatter about at their fancy balls, no doubt. As much as fertility charms and poppets, she seems to just know things that other folks don’t, so best save up a good secret or two for her if you go visiting*”…]

## Iskren (Whittengrove-based)

### Inquiry by Matthias Tavares - 133WD, Jas-Greencrown

[..."*Iskren Cardailon? Quite the philanthropist him, mostly through his investment firm Cardailon & Xaldir, although they are more famous for small loans to businesses, bigger and more substantial options for those with the collateral to back them up I suppose. Old money, they say, and well his investments seem to have paid off given how generous he's been recently helping those displaced and so forth. Ha, they say ever beggar upon the streets wishes to cross paths with him, given how he likes to get them tidied up, dressed up real nice like and set them forth on some new venture to better fortunes*"...]

[..."*I sold him a small metal statuette recently. Pretty thing, found it while I was fishing in the Lotus Run, polished up nicely once the grime, clay and netting had been brushed away. Had a confident and self-assured about him, for certain, but never imposingly so. Heard he also purchased a carved wooden figure from a girl in the street too, just stopped his carriage and offered her a platinum piece for it if she could tell him the story behind its making, what it meant to her*"...]

[..."*got himself a fancy cabin on the Galerider, the ones with the shiny cog on the doors. A sleek thing, a sort of muted green like polished jade or the like perhaps. Heard he often heads over to the market in Oxresh to sample the various auction lots, see if anything catches his eye. Also heard he, or some of his retinue got in a good and proper spat with some collectors from Rydoon over a few choice items, though I hear he got his way in the end when he raised his bid three times past what had originally been expected!*"...]

## Magical Maturation (Chalimar-based)

### Inquiry by Moxzi Bluhedd - 132WD, Onteer-Whiterose

[..."*a few decades ago the Marquis of Vardony was holding a masked ball at the Vardon Pavilion, celebrating the marriage of his son to some well-to-do noble from the east, and well they had a strict policy of no children, even for the commonfolk feasting in the streets outside. Now, I was just at the cusp of adulthood, and surely wasn't keen to miss such an opportunity - my my, certainly not! Kenilda was going, and well, I couldn't let her be surrounded by bachelors of all kinds, particularly once the wine starts flowing, the good stuff from Stalrose, not the cheap swills. The Marquis was said to be in a generous mood, and his daughter-to-be's parents were also paying. Mother always said that Aita blessed me with a youthful face, sweet and fresh, but it would surely not be of use if I was trying to get through the guards. So I visited a herbalist on the northern edge of the Greater Greensong, paid her the best part of quarter a year's wages for her to provide me with something to grow a vibrant beard, thought that might help, you know? Instead she just offered up some ritual and that seemed to do the trick, more so than I'd ever hoped - but it was more than just a beard, for I gained a few years, and now don't my joints ache like nothing else. What I'd do for a few more years of youth, taken as they were in pursuit of a pretty face. Alas, I cannot complain too greatly, for my sweet Kenilda has blessed me with several strong sons and daughters - although there is not a beard amongst them"*...]

[...*"ageing? Usually people ask about the opposite, aha! Well, perhaps two ways of going about it really, though you'd probably be looking at someone in the larger cities with more skill and eye for such things than me. Alchemists are devious with their creations, I'm sure they could perhaps put something together for you with the right mix of substances, or perhaps one of those healing types has something to undo what hexing chaos is capable of doing such a thing"*...]

## Mount Durnach (Aviacrest-based)

### Inquiry by Ódóvir Jotunsson - 134WD, Glede-Amberlight

[...*"don't travel much that way in truth, and certainly wouldn't want to fly an aership in that direction either - I can't say for certain whatever possessed the insanity of building the eastern route of the Great Conduit so close to it, given that it seems to wake from time to spew clouds of ash for a day or two skyward, spitting flaming stones onto the mountainside. The landscape around it looks pretty bleak from what I've seen from afar, the ground parched and arid, the only plants withered and browned"*...]

[...*"there was this down on their luck half-elf alchemist that made a big show of setting forth for that accursed mountain a while back, saying they'd return with a wealth of pricey and choice ingredients to make their fortune. Fire Lichen, Dragon Fennel, Kilntar, Devil's Crown and Princely Yortfane. Burned those names into my head she did, chatting of nothing but the sort while buying me drinks to keep her company with what little coin she had remaining. Sure, when she started speaking about gemstones my ears pricked up a little, but when she started explaining how she'd always wanted to be a jeweller instead I found myself drifting of once more, blame it on the Mist's Breath, ha! As far as I know, she never returned from that trip, so I doubt her herb clippers or jewel tweezers did her a whole lot of good out there"*...]

[...*"now, you didn't hear this from me, right, but a colleague of mine that knows someone who repairs the armour of the Feather Fall says that he overheard some member of the guard mentioning to their patrol partner that one of the enchanters the Solace Summit used to put the magic on the Feather Fall's armour so that they don't tumble too quickly from the walkways had overheard reports given to Magistrate to deliver to the Aethnarch that an aership had been lost when it flew too close to Mount Durnach. He said that they said that she said that he said that it had been one of those Cloudskimmers, the smaller ones, but that it was no accident - it had been pulled from the sky by either a huge screaming bird, a giant flaming fist or a dragon with dull and deep scales, depending on who is telling the truth, seemingly the story changed each time"*...]

## Mount Durnach Dangers (Khonoldhur-based)

### Inquiry by Lazarus - 134WD, Tarra-Whiterose

[...*"I've heard that there are these rifts here and there, like the ground has been pulled apart by acts of nature, or perhaps huge claws, and that fire and haze brews within them all. Thick clouds of yellow, black and green, hanging low to the ground but enough to choke even a stalwart dwarven folk in a matter of seconds, like those that sometimes they find digging deep in the Roots. Heard that Wanaak at the Third Wish sells a fancy necklace that helps against such things, though certainly seems to be too pricey for a common mining folk!"*...]

[...*"the next house along has now been filled with some folks that fled from that kind of way. Used to live in a village near the mount, I gather, the volcanic ash is excellent for growing crops, some they never found themselves hungering after anything - save perhaps seafood or something, I suppose, ha! Nonetheless, they said that when the land had grown more and more unstable, they'd been forced to move. Not all of them had, others instead went to the mountain to make offerings to beseech the gods, the spirits, the land itself, whatever, to try and satiate it. Last they'd heard, the mountain still stirs - but it hasn't erupted truly, unlike those down on Corrogo, so maybe they managed it"*...]

[...*"got a colleague of mine that swears on the Lantern Lord's scales that he saw a huge spider out that way, except it fired molten rock in place of web. Now, he says the density of gemstones he found in the area made the trip worth it, but you know what, I've seen the gemstones he came back with and sure there are a few of particular rarity here and there, but in his hands, I can't say it would be worth much - he'll chip them to pieces on his workshop floor before they are worth risking your life over"*...]

[...*"something big resides in that mount, I don't doubt it. Never ventured near, I'll freely admit, but it always has. The peak shifts and turns, grumbling into noxious clouds of smoke, plants devoid of life, little more than dust for miles and miles. I knew a group of Brotherhood members a while back, ran alongside them for a short while. What can I say, we enjoyed each other's company, until we didn't. Learned a thing or two in that time. The tremors, the sulphurous scent, the empowerment of flame, I know the signs. There's a dragon in that volcano, I guarantee it"*...]

## Nihlertrium & The Academy of Erudition (Oxresh-based)

### Inquiry by Rinn Zelnolar - 133WD, Glede-Amberlight

[..."*just the natural balance of things, surely. The Sixteen are contrasted by the Malign. The day by night, the light sourness of kvass by a smoked venison sausage. For long the lands of Ahlus has benefited from the boons of a substance of arcane made physical. It would make sense that its opposite would exist - an absence of magic, its scourge, an antithesis. A perfect balance must exist in all things, and so the scales shift towards their resting point once more"*...]

[..."*it is an alarming development, for certain. Do the Atrals not fear that to use this substance to build with crumble their strength? They are a nation build upon magic, be it arcane, be it divine. The moment they use it, their foes will seek it - and with it they have far more to lose. But perhaps, maybe, that is the intention, to understand it more greatly, to seek out how to nullify the nullifier, lest it be weaponised*"...]

[..."*there have been some interesting reports carried back by operatives of the Ministry of the Curio of pockets of the Ashenvale falling quiet, like clearings in a forest. The forest always regrows into the space that was created however, the weeds of unfettered wild magic are difficult to tear out down to the roots. If this substance serves as a way to suppress magic, perhaps it is related? Seems dreadfully wasteful though, like a poorly thought through experiment*"...]

## Ports Destroyed by Powerful Winds (Viridell-based)

### Inquiry by Moxzi Bluhedd - 135WD, Jas-Highreign

[...*"not sure whether it was powerful winds that did it, but there is a stopping point near the tip of South Pakulo, you know, in the Corrogos, that seems to have vanished since I last passed by. It was little more than a few shacks on and in the cliff-face to start off with, and the population kind of waxed and waned - I don't even think there was a permanent fixture of fellows there in truth, just whoever happened to be passing by - but nonetheless, the rock face had just given away when we sailed last, bound for Lambert Quay. The fact we didn't stop actually meant we got paid a little extra, hence the fancy hat you see before you. All worked out fine, even if I do find myself craving the fresh jacu-jacu - they just don't get the juice blend quite right here!"*...]

[...*"the Thrice-Damned are always changing their port, only way that they know how to evade the Triumvirate's fleet for any meaningful amount of time. They raze everything that was left in their wake, so only smouldering wrecks are left by the time their sails are seen on the horizon. Take, take, take, that is all they do, seizing whatever they can, burning what is left so that the ash in the breeze is all that remains for us common folk - may the waves rise up to take them all, I swear"*...]

## Posters Targetting Arnica (Amber Run-based)

### Inquiry by Anivia Reman - 135 WD, Ardor-Amberlight

[...*"I was up all night the one that the posters started popping up all over the place. The Kittigriffs had been squabbling all day in the tree directly out front, tearing up the leaves and branches, leaving their waste all over the floor. So I was keeping an eye out, waiting for them to start their nesting so I could trap them - not to do them any harm, of course, but to bag them and release them on the road down to Hobs' Fall or something. Anyway, I waited all night for them to return, but perhaps they got wise to it or something. Nonetheless, by the time the sunrise came, my sack was still empty, and there was the poster pinned to the gate all the same - didn't see anyone do it, so I suppose we got ghosts hunting hags here in Amber Run now"*...]

[...*"the nails they used are mine, aye - got the Maker's Mark that I put on all the produce from the forge. But there's been construction aplenty recently, so we get a few dozens people buying them every day, every week, but only really locals as best as I can recall. Familiar faces coming and going, you adventuring lot, the common populace. Unless someone snuck in here to get some nails - and I don't think they did, the locks are all fine - then they'll be a local you are looking for. Maybe, if they believe it strong enough though, they'll make themselves known if you shout loud enough, aha"*...]

[...*"we are looking into it, so worry not - both sides, that is, the source of the posters, and the claims made upon them. We've be inundated with people asking about them, and that's even considering that half the town seem more interested in the day to come, than parchment that appeared during the night. But every Silvertower in Amber Run, myself included, have been approached at least a few times. It seems the posters first appeared on the southern end of town, near the houses leading to the C.C.C. coach station and stables, and then spread out through the town from there. Your efforts are welcome, but most likely unnecessary"*...]

[...*"I got caught on the road north from Hobs' Fall, so arrived late. There is always a little activity, regardless of the time, even if it just the guards making the rounds. Gave a few revellers a wave as I rode past the Fountain, and I think there was someone at the noticeboard then, fiddling with the posted bills. I'm sorry, it was so dark, I didn't see much - a cloaked figure of average height, average breadth - but they faded into the night silently, as quiet as you like, as if their boots barely graced the cobbles"*...]

[...*"there was another person saying similar things a while back, wasn't there? I saw some posters or something about, or a leaflet maybe? Oh, yeah, that was it, the Amber Run Crier? I mean, if a different person is having worries, shouldn't it be at least looked into. I'm sure the Silvertowers and the Maire will get it all sorted, whatever it comes down to, but I don't think it is a bold statement to say I wouldn't want to live in the same town as a hag. First the gnolls, now this!"*...]

[...*"I heard the tap tap tap of the hammer on the door, thought it was the drip of rain or something, because we certainly weren't expecting visitors at that time in the night. Nonetheless, I got up, grabbed my cloak, boots and what not to go check it out - my wife's mother had been threatening us with a visit in the last few letters she wrote, and I thought it would be just my luck that she made a surprise appearance from the gloom, especially given the house is a mess at the moment. What were we talking about again? Oh yes, the posters! Well yes, by the time I got to the door, whoever had been hammering away was gone, vanished into the dark - they hadn't even disturbed the leaves on the path to the house, like they just up and floated away"*...]

### Inquiry by Anivia Reman - 135 WD, Glede-Amberlight

[...*"there are a few of us starting to get a bit jittery about this all, to speak plainly with you. I get you must have your own reasons to ask about these things, we've seen you with her before, going off and doing things. But adventurers generally, well, they attract things, don't they? It could be hags, it could be dragons, or something else entirely. The truth of it doesn't really matter, not really, because here we are anyway - my family and I are planning on moving away, back to Hobs' Fall perhaps. As much as you can, try and keep things to yourselves, and for all the Owl's Wisdom, don't drag us into whatever trouble this is"*...]

[...*"happy to say that the Kittigriffs seem to have cleared off for the time being, haven't seen them anywhere on the eastern part of the town at all recently in truth. Perhaps they'll be back in time, but for now I'm just enjoying the bliss. No feathers or fur scattered in front of the doorway, not screeching in the middle of the night - no I've been sleeping well, and feeling all the better for it. I know that isn't much help for what you are looking for, but I like sharing good news nonetheless, even if it means I'm even less likely to spot something than I was before, sorry!"*...]

[...*"I didn't think much of it at the time, in truth, you know how folks can get after they've drunk a bit - and so there is always a bit of leeway to behaviour when passing by Skålhalla, the Fountain, the Nest and Web. I've seen people diving out of windows into the arms of their friends waiting below - they usually catch them - I've seen people swaying and dancing into the gloom, going from poise to stumbling headfirst into the road. Last night I did spy someone going into the Nest and Web - headfirst through a window, real gracious and dextrous. I couldn't see much, but they were of average height I suppose, but moved quickly and with a real sense of purpose - I just assumed they were so keen for bed that they couldn't be bothered to make their way to the doorway, shrugged and headed for my own"*...]

[...*"fortunately my trance hasn't much found itself interrupted, even though I'm barely a few stone throws from Skålhalla and all that Doom Rider stuff. No, beyond that the western part of the town is pretty straight forward, we keep to ourselves, travel to the merchants as needed. Of course we've been talking about it all, but sorry, I didn't, nor did my neighbours - none of us saw or heard anything. Though we have started watching out more - do you really think a dragon could come here, to Amber Run? Maybe it would follow her scent, or the smell of those delicious cakes she's been giving out to try and curry favour. Tempting things, that"...]*

## Recent Activity of the Avneclave (Howell Town-based)

### Inquiry by Adrian Frostbrooke - 135WD, Pinnul-Greencrown

[...*"Vrakskan led the way in the most recent Greencrown Hunt. Was a bountiful year this time round, by the look of it, all manner of monsters quelled before they could turn their claws and maws upon the innocent folk. Did as he usually did, dancing through the air, voice booming loud and proud, cape of emerald stirring in the breeze. Quite the showman really, the kids love the sparks and whistles that he conjures in the air. As he's done each year, he did the presentation to the Whiteclaw's Bane too. The new Imperator of Caterwaul, Frath Lotarrow got it, and for his efforts during the hunt found himself with a fancy new blade, sleek thing that changed its configuration - from spear to flail to whip to sword - the fellow in the crowd next to me said that Vrakskan had designed it himself"*...]

[...*"a servant working in the Hold said that the Carmine Lady doesn't really live in the keep, although that isn't anything new. But she has been visiting recently, lots of dinners with the Lord. Some are grand things, with guests, others more low-key things. Well, I say low-key, still a banquet by any normal folk's measure, that isn't to be doubted. Difficult to tell exactly how much time she spends there though, given that she doesn't use the entrance and exit like the others. Thankfully for the cleaners, it seems the fiery doors she steps through burn so hot and pure that they don't leave soot everywhere - small things, ahah"*...]

## Recent Activity of the Hadean Tide (Viridell-based)

### Inquiry by Athun - 136WD, Otealt-Greencrown

[...*”had quite the run-in of a lifetime on my way from Storm’s Break, ask any of my crew and they’ll say the same. Now, you’ll recall that a while ago the Triumvirate were having issues with a pair of dragon turtles demanding tribute from merchant ships, so they paid the pair off with a big tribute to hunt down Thrice-Damned raiding vessels. Well, they haven’t been seen for a while - until last week that is! Spied one of them dozing on the shoreline near the Sultan Sulk reef, right where the Thrice-Damned just cleared out the Shellspear Six. And that’s not all - they were being scoured and cleaned by a veritable army of lizardfolk, wielding big fans and everything. Suffice it to say I steered well clear, lest they rouse from their slumber”*...]

[...*”some odd goings-on in the northern Wavebreakers recently, at the edges of the vast kelp forest there. Usually it is good pickings for pearls, abalone, even some larimar if you are particularly lucky, but there were reports by a diving group returning from a trip to the area of hauntings. They lost their friend to the depths a year or so ago, I gather, some incident with a coral drake, and yet they swear they saw them, or what remained of them shambling across the sea floor - and they weren’t alone!”*...]

[...*”the soil and stone keeps shifting, and with it there are always new islands to be found. Ones that spring up overnight, volcanic, craggy and barren. The Corrogos started that way, Perianths too, it’ll take time for them to grow vegetation, trees, shrubs, that kind of thing. Then they’ll be as vibrant as the others, but that hasn’t stopped someone starting to claim one of them. There’s a little island, just south of Emershal that has something being built on it - extending into and under the water too”*...]

[...*”absolute bloodbath in the waters between Corrogo and High Pakulo, the remains of all sorts of creatures just scattered and floating. It was like someone had chummed the waters, and by all means, it had worked. Swarming with sharks, feasting on the remains of fish-faced humanoids, aquatic beasts and each other - absolute feeding frenzy. It was like a vast battlefield, but the carrion birds were eight-foot long sharks”*...]

## Recent Activity of the Avneclave (Howell Hithe-based)

### Inquiry by Adrian Frostbrooke - 135WD, Pinnul-Greencrown

[...*"there was a ship captain chatting away in the Fountain about how he'd seen Lady Fiona late one night, down at the docks. Said he was looking over one final bit of inventory before calling it a night - though given the cut of his jib I suspect that maybe he was just dozing on the wharfside, aha - but nonetheless, there was this flash of light and she just strolled out, clad in a cape of crimson that seemed to smoke and smoulder, melting the snow at her feet. Up on the northern stretch of the port he was saying, on the Bay proper, where they moor Fonteyne's Fleet. Curiosity got him then, so he followed, got as far as the private dock where the Lord's own flagship Fortune is docked. Begs the question though, if this captain talking through his cups is to be believed, why didn't she just make herself appear there, instead of walking all that way?"*...]

## Sightings of Briars, Giants and Hags (Howell Town-based)

### Inquiry by Enor - 135 WD, Otealt-Greencrown

[...*"The Lord's hunts have seen an end to both their kind here. He felled the dead that occupied the halls of the Silver King's Hold, then razed the accursed place and all the bones and rot within to dust. The bards still tell the tales of his conquest against the Circle of the Empty Chalice, each of the three crones slain by his very hand. The foundations of Ironbreach stand upon ruins of a shattered stone citadel so large that it must have been shaped by giants some time distant and long ago, but they are forgotten. Their ruins are everywhere, from Grimvern to the depths of the Uldingweld. Save the body of a frost giant or a hag paraded through the streets sprawled broken on a cart after the Greencrown Hunts, the people and their children stand safe against such things here, and have thankfully never had to gaze upon such creatures"*...]

[...*"if you seek tales of such foul and awe-inspired creatures my friend, could I possibly interest you in a ticket to the show this evening at the Howell Hippodrome? We have a marvellous performance of 'The Blood of Malice Falls Heavy on the Snow', featuring the talented cast of the Silk Borealis Troupe, as well as the musical talents of both Baldemar the Bistre and Capucina Six-Horn. Giants, Hags, even Dragons - all and more are found within the five acts. A bargain at 6cp in the stalls, or perhaps a private box for you and a private companion for but a few silver pieces!"*...]

[...*"giants? Not in this city, no. There was one in Snowdrift for a while a few years back, the goliathfolk raised them to their Chieftain for a time, before his head clearly got filled with all sorts of thoughts it shouldn't. Aspirations got too lofty, even for a giant, that Gallus, trying to insight rebellion against the Town. The blizzards hit us all tough, and allowances had been made for the fact that they are bigger, but still, we've got to band together on these things. His head isn't so high anymore, haha, fell hard and true, I'm sure, once the White Coats got to work. Got a new leader now they have, closer to the soil and stone in both stature and expectations"*...]

## Sightings of Briars and Hags (Khonoldhur-based)

### Inquiry by Enor - 135 WD, Otealt-Greencrown

[...*"heard about a few folks that had stumbled across an old grove shrouded in the mists of the Morlet Cascades. The Whiterose winds had been blowing a mighty gale that day, so they'd sought cover further down the mountainside, and came across it. They nestled up in the roots of the few trees there for shelter, bedded down for the storm to pass in beautiful surroundings. They all awoke with a start though, seeing figures made of gnarled bark looming over them, voices like furious bird song. They just ran, tripping over roots and vines as they did, mist sparkling overhead"*...]

[..."*I was planning on making a journey through the Shifting Dunes to visit some traders on the eastern edge, so went to go hire a mount from Beivailur. Don't know if you know the chap - eccentric elven fellow, big hat, bigger bugs. Nonetheless, he said he gets some of his beasties from this halfling chap up to the north. He hadn't heard from him for a while, and well, it sounds like this chap had a natural talent for said creatures, so if he was in a spot of bother, it surely wouldn't be them. Not that it narrows it down a lot, heard the Halmbrae Hills are the haunt of all sorts of monsters, so it could have been anything - might go looking for briars and hags, and come back being chased after by dragons and trolls!"...]*

[...*"they like shady places, quiet places that kind of thing, don't they? Somewhere they can do their scheming from uninterrupted, without ever crossing paths with good normal folk. I suppose only really a few of the valleys of the mountains are frequently travelled, though those near the Heartsword Pass to the far northwest are home to orcs, harpies and and all other kinds of monsters. Why not a hag too? Or maybe that'd put them off, all that squabbling and violence between the tribes and clans"*...]

[..*."I've got a mother-in-law that I'm sure is probably something of the sort. I knew the risk I took when I married my precious Karsade, but by the Thunderqueen's Thunder, she nags my ear right off. It's always 'Frorthrimm, you need to go buy some pebble peppers,' and 'Frorthrimm, the house smells worse than a sacer broodpit'. Best yet, 'Frorthrimm, you can't go out wearing those shoes, they've got a hole in the side of them - it'll let the rain in'. We live inside a mountain, there is no rain! Absolute crone of a woman, but she's had her two hundred and thirtieth birthday recently so maybe the Daughter of the Veil will come visiting soon enough"*...]

## The Courrak People (Howell Town-based)

### Inquiry by Ódóvir Jotunsson - 133WD, Glede-Amberlight

[...*"troublemakers, all of them! Opportunistic bandits that would steal away the labours of the lands from the good folk of the Expanse. They wait in the shadows of the Notchbark, watching as the river ferries pass. Whether they pick at random, or with deliberate effort doesn't matter - it takes coin from the coffers of the Lord, from the coffers that build the walls to protect us, to buy us grain from the south. Caterwaul keeps them at bay along the Weeping Water, but the Last Gasp is a different matter entirely. But not much longer, the Imperator has already captured a few of their number, the rest of the Wolfborn won't be far behind. And not a moment too soon, we'll all sleep better knowing those savages are dealt with!"*...]

[..."*there were a few that colonised along the banks of the Barrow Beck in the day, before they were moved aside with the building of Howell Hithe. They weren't commanded to go, nor forced by sword or flame like their kin are like to do, but they just left by their own accord, clambering off to the west. Forest folk they were, but they'd grown accustomed to the river over the years. Sometimes a few come by to path penance at the barrows, small offerings to bestial gods and ancestors long-gone, that kind of thing*"....]

[..."*heard they maintain all sorts of queer customs. Suppose they'd have to to survive in the frosts and snows of the northeastern stretches. Nothing but snow, ice and death masquerading as a mixture of the two up there. Remorrhazes, frost salamanders, giants, all hunt those lands, and for that we are thankful for the Lord's hunts. Clear the breeding pairs, break the cycle of renewal. He did it with the dragons, he'll do the same with them all in time*"...]

## The Onyx Shroud (Amber Run-based)

### Inquiry by Arnica - 133WD, Jas-Greencrown

[..."*a group of vampires you say? Well, I am delighted to say that I haven't across any such folk around here, not today, not yesterday, not for a hundred years or more they say! Didn't you hear, there are not more vampires, they all died out! Ha, well, died again I suppose. Although, between you and me, my neighbour Raine certainly has pointier teeth than most, but that is because she is a Shifter, bwhahahaha*"...]

[..."*an onyx shroud? Seems a rather particular order, make them look really quite pale against black cloth - although I wouldn't want to besmirch the wishes of the departed. I'm sure if you ask around the various weavers they might be able to create something of the sort to suit what you are looking for*"...]

[..."*not convinced they ever even existed, personally. There are enough other foul things out there that could be held accountable for attacks like that, so even if people keep using them as a story to get the kids home before nightfall, then what is the harm? Bears, worgs, aurumvorax, harpies, redcaps, there are many things that are much more real that like the taste of blood all the same. Besides, even if there was, the light of Taranis would burn them to a crisp, good and true - that's what they are weak too, yeah? Sunlight, actual sunlight, not just a bright light or glow. Doesn't get much brighter than the light of the Burning Eye*"...]

## The Onyx Shroud (Cal Araenora-based)

### Inquiry by Cassiope Winterthorne - 135WD, Ardor-Amberlight

[...*"no, thankfully there hasn't been anything more of the sort recently. That doesn't make the nights any shorter for those with good folk, family, friends, whatever to worry about. But at least they aren't adding to the number. The Shiere Knights roam back and forth at the Lord-Commander's design, and they are yet to sweep up shadows where they should not lie - at least we can find a little peace in that"*...]

[...*"the Verdantborn has been making the visits. We thought her away too, like the rumours say her siblings are - though no official announcement has been made, of course - but there she was, doing as she does. Once saw her create a bird from a block of wood with nothing but a chisel, hammer and a few minutes, and yet it flapped its wings and circled the plaza all the same. Some sweet joy for those missing those that are still sick and being cared for, that's what she reminds those sorry few of"*...]

[...*"had a customer complaining that a wall in their house had started to blacken, the air of the affected room musky, with this thick and hazy gloom to it. We took precautions of course, a while back managed to get a fancy pendant that warded against toxins and the like, courtesy of a wealthy merchant that I helped at the roadside. It was foul, all in all, like a spider's nest of black, green and grey, and oh my, the smell. But with a good scrub, replacement of the wall and instillation of an outlet for ventilation, that solved the mould well enough. I reckon the customer will just stick to the baths at Velenthir Estate in the future, instead of trying to make a sauna for himself"*...]

[...*"there was a spritely half-elven lad that was asking after something similar a few weeks back, said he was a herbalist, or a herbalist-in-training maybe? Wanted to see if anyone had any samples of the stuff that the corruptions were enacted with. Seemed that it had all been burned, rightly so, and so he seemed a little lost without it. Last I saw, he was talking to a few of the city watch, they were trying to help him best they could"*...]

[...*"when Reldari turned up pale, hanging by their leg from a tree, folks were quick to point fingers and make calls of vampires. The violent death, the bite marks across their body, a terrible way to go for such an acclaimed tracker. It would only be when his bow and quiver were found in a nearby harpy nest that the rumours stopped, both they and he returned to his family once the Shiere Knights had swept through and slain them and the Matriarch"*...]

[...*"there's more of them? We've heard the stories about this Kristoph, the malice he sowed through the town on that threatful and terrible night, but when stories started to circle that he'd been slain by a group of heroes backed by a pact of Archfey in the Feywild, I thought that was the end of it. But there are others? Working under the same banner? I... I need to go - we can't stay here, what if they come again? My darling Liana! Oh, my hertis rote, father is coming for you!"*...]

## Smiths with Knowledge of Drow Adamantine Blades (Khonoldhur-based)

### Inquiry by Anivia Reman - 135WD, Tarra-Whiterose

[...*"all the best forges are in The Roots, right where they draw the ores from the ground. There are finesmiths through the Heart that work with those fancy and exotic metals, for sure, but it is smaller things, jewellery, filigrees. No, for the forging of weapons, of armour, it is the Roots that you should be heading to. There are a few folks down there that have been working since before Khonoldhur was Khonoldhur, most of which work at the Vicehorn Forge, or in smaller pockets dotted throughout the tunnels themselves"*...]

## The Sproutling (Cal Araenora-based)

### Inquiry by Arnica - 135WD, Pinnul-Greencrown

[...*"Sproutling? I'm sure I used to know a dryadborne once that went by that name. Or perhaps it was just a pet name of sorts, maybe, like Sweet Pea, or Hertis Rote, or Ducky. Nonetheless, they used to make sell fresh fruit and vegetables in the market, every other day. Always good quality, fresh as you like, but usually on the smaller side. Maybe that is why they were called Sproutling - you know, because of the smallness"*...]

[...*"look, you seem nice enough to me, but I've got to trust Harps here. Her judgement has never led her astray in all her years, and while her fur is naught but grey by now, her mind is still sharp. If she says something is up, then something is up. Best be on your way Miss, there are folks far more superstitious than I about"*...]

## The Sword of Flame's Hunt (Lotusbloom Bastion-based)

### Inquiry by Cassiope Winterthorne - 135WD, Loghelt-Amberlight

[...*"came as a bit of surprise the announcement. All had been quiet from the Radiant Vanguard for a while, I've not heard a peep from Lord Amaril, and little more from the Swords - Corvyn and Leshanna that is. Then huzzah, out of nowhere comes the Sword of Flame, with this grand announcement. Seems really taken with the idea, so naturally folks have been speculating over the prizes being offered, they say there is to be a buffet of magic items available, as well as gifts and opportunities for further adventures. Bold and bright, our Corvyn, and more so than he's ever been before"*...]

[...*"oh, the Bastion is a great place for it. You've got woodland, both the copses and the denser thickets, then the banks of the Blindbight and the Fairstone. To the west you've got the hills that stretch towards the Bristlebacks, the heights of Mount Bisame, the dells of the Campion Meadow. Lots of variety, you can see why so many people come to the Bastion to track, watch and hunt. I think the groups entering from Lotusbloom acknowledge that, they know they've got the home advantage"*...]

[...*"lots of excitement about it, of course. We've got folks that have been baking and brewing aplenty, stuff imported from Atralran, from the Concord, from the Estate. There are many in the Bastion that are spoiling to take part, particularly so given the Sword of Flame has forbidden the usual hunts and adventurers into the Weald's Wake over the last couple of months - folks are saying it is so the forests grow a little more wild, making it more challenging and exciting for those taking part. Word of caution though, I wouldn't go anywhere near the Eresloth's Grotto, I dread to think what its become over the last few months without Shiere Knights patrolling nearby. Best to stick near the manor house, you can swing by for a mulberry scone or two instead, best in a hundred miles, I promise you"*...]

[...*"what are they hunting? Well, isn't that the platinum question. Many folks have tried to work it out, but as best as I know, well, nobody knows. Of course, it is possible that some people know, and they just aren't telling, strategy to that line of thinking, give them an edge on the competition, but I couldn't say for certain. There are all sorts of marvellous beasts and vicious monsters roaming in the Weald's Wake, owlbears and grondols, trolls and boulder toads, harts and wolves, and then up near Fairstone you've got spirits of the land itself, beings of soil and mud and water. All we know is that a travelling merchant passing by offered to sell Corvyn a manticore of great size to act as the centrepiece, and the Sword of Flame declined - so clearly he's got something specific in mind"*...]

[...*"I've spied some folks from the Velenthir Estate that seem to have set up camp, readying themselves for the process. Not sure how fit they'll be for it though, as best as I've seen, they've just spent the last few weeks dancing, singing, drinking and feasting - treating the whole thing as some grand holiday. But they're having fun and lining the pockets of the tavern keeps, so even if it they are hazy of head the day the hunt is called, no harm done - they certainly seem to be enjoying themselves. They've found some common cause with a group of mercenary types too that seem able to match them drink for drink, or close to. Members of the Scions, I gather, keen to take part too"*...]

[...*"not that I've heard of, no. Besides, all the noble folk are busy with other things at the moment, so even if they wanted too, I don't think any of the Velenthirs or Quelenneths or Boreallus. Although we aren't lacking for noble blood in its entirety though. There are a few Atral houses keen to take part, I've seen their banners on the edge of the Estate, a few flying from the walls themselves while they are guests of the manor - four pink towers, a bow and antlers, and a broken bridge. I think they are all planning on competing together!"*...]

## Unusual Cloud Formations (Viridell-based)

### Inquiry by Moxzi Bluhedd - 135WD, Jas-Highreign

[...*"I was on the Galerider a good few months back, visiting some friends and family in Aviacrest. Naturally your eyes drift over the horizon, not much else to do in the Copper Suite besides try to make melodies of the screaming children and baying goats. Could have sworn I saw the clouds at the tip of the highest mountain just kind of give way, rolling down the side of the stone like some mighty snow wave like they get up in the north - what's the word, like a mud slide but with ice - avalanche, yes that's it - but it was the clouds, just falling out the sky around the peak. Pretty unusual, for sure"*...]

[...*"oh, nearly everyday. If you squint a bit, you can see the messages that the Pathmaker wants only his chosen few to see in the clouds. Yesterday there was a cockle stalker smashing open an oyster shell, and then later that day I went to the Perchance Port and saw a cockle stalker - get this - smashing open an oyster shell. I knew it was a sign, so I ran right over, and there was this ruddy great pearl sitting there, right in the mud. A gift from the gods, surely - I intend to apply for the position of High Priest of the Wayfinder tomorrow, chosen as I surely am, but I've got the profits of the find to enjoy today first, aha!"*...]

## Vedrana the Chandler ((Chalimar, Rydoon & Whittengrove-based)

### Inquiry by Ashewan Norvegicus & Gwyneth - 135WD, Jas-Highreign

*[…”I’d never forget her, no, certainly not. She was part of a travelling circus, Slatevale and Darda, but she didn’t tumble through the air or do feats of strength. No, she claimed to have the gift of prophecy, to see things that had passed but known only to a few, and from it use the whispers of the dead to foresee the future. Seemed harmless enough fun, but oh by the Dawn, was I wrong. It started well, the small tent of mauve fabric was filled with incense that hung heavy in threads of ruddy-grey, the air warm and sultry with the dozens of candles lit giving everything a soft and gentle light - and well, she was a pretty young thing, even for the scar that marred that smooth skin of hers. That alone was worth the price of admission, I thought to myself, aha. There was a grand theatre to it all as she drew the cards, seemingly from the haze itself, and my heart thumping in my chest.*

*The first was the Swashbuckler, the figure on the card seemingly to shift to match my own bemused face. I’d had a spell mooching from place to place, spending coin as quickly as I made on food, drink, company, all the luxuries a young man could desire.*

*The second was the Hooded One, I took that to mean her naturally, this enigma of allure before me that flustered every part of my being. But perhaps in retrospect I had been wrong.*

*She moved in close for the third card, drawing her hand through that silver-blonde hair of her’s. The final card was the Beast, a promise of great passion, and naturally my heart beat ever faster still with the promise of something primal to come. You can guess where my imagination went, aha. But it wasn’t to be, and so I parted all aflutter no sooner had that card vanished from where it came back into the haze. She did let me keep one of the candles though, the wax still warm in my fingers as I waited for the rest of the show to start, and as soon as it started I found myself enthralled, horrified and delighted all the same, and my thoughts drifted away from the cards.*

*The Beast is that which lurks beneath the surface, unseen until the last moment. Its presence felt, sensed by some primal intuition, but unseen. In my past life I’d crossed paths with many folks, many friends, many foes. It seemed that one of these foes had taken to pursuit as the Beast takes to the hunt. Debts were owed, debts I had fled from, taking a new name, and new place, and yet somehow they found me, following a bloodless trail. Long story short, well, I suppose you can now guess what happened to my fingers and teeth”…]*

## Wanted Items by the Antiquarian (Rydoon-based)

### Inquiry by Rover Custard Augustine - 135WD, Vluk-Whiterose

[...*"wanted items? Well, there is a simple answer to that - it is much more and everything really. If it has a place in cultural, martial, or elsewise history, then the Eclipse will show interest - whether for sake of its preservation, be it for study, understanding or simple enjoyment. Naturally, of particular interest are those objects at both ends of the spectrum, I suppose, those with obvious significance and value, and those too that may be readily discarded by others as naught, only for their true worth to be discovered once the dirt and grime is carefully brushed aside - as is our place as teachers of the populace"*...]

[...*"while we of course do have exhibits that pertain to the Wandering Worlds - last year we renovated our Elemental Sphere Hall with relics from Taifun and Vadslold to the City of Brass and the Citadel of Ten Thousand Pearls - it has always been the interest of the Antiquarian, and thus the operating team of the Eclipse on the more-grounded - but no less fantastical - histories of the Prime Material. Items from the old Realms, rebirthed from the centuries to be appreciated once more, those created, wielded or worn by the Principal Races - it would appear our patrons agree too, for they are ever the more enjoyed regions of the Hall"*...]

[...*"well, we have a number of particularly popular exhibits at present, and are of course accepting donations of all kinds, either to bolster our current displays, or held build future ones. Just for you Kyrios, we have an upcoming showcase tentatively titled - Beneath the Iron Nail: The Might of the Dust Lords. It features a number of priceless relics and items, some lovingly repaired by our team out of necessity, others in their original, untouched state, recovered from the Dunes and Ironfangs alike from forgotten tombs of Anorcor. There is probably still time to add a few additional pieces to the displays, should you happen to come across any on your official travels. At its centre is a marvellous piece, tactfully restored to its former glory - the sarcophagus of greatest amongst the Dustlords, Nakhelos the Sacrosanct. If you can find time, you must come and see it!"*...]

## The Whereabouts of Avoles (Oxresh-based)

### Inquiry by Ódóvir Jotunsson - 134WD, Onteer-Whiterose

[...*"not to be blunt, but I reckon I would have noticed if there was dragon out and about in Oxresh. Got a keen eye for them I have, you know! Used to fight alongside the Lord of Howell Town, hunting down the wretched white scaled ones of their ilk. They've got this kind of smell to them you know, and once you know what to look out for, then you can't miss it. I'll let you know though if any dragons decide to come close though, ha!".*..]

[...*"I remember once spying a marvellous carriage on the Great Conduit, one of those fancy special ones, made to order. Just before it pulled out of the station, a few of the conductors passed through the carriages, seemingly calling people up at random, one from Copper, one from Silver, one from Gold. Thankfully, it was a particularly talkative halfling sitting across the way that got called up from my suite, at the request of the so-called Brass Magi. Let me get on with my studies in peace, thankfully, though when I caught sight of them on the platform at Rydoon, they looked utterly exhausted, like they'd be up all day and night"*...]

[..."*Avoles? Wasn't she that lass that got thrown out of the Myriad Market a little while ago for holding up the auctions? Yeah, she was offering up a onyx and ivory game board with gemstone playing pieces. Remarkable item, I can still remember the shine and polish of it, and there were surely a lot of big spenders keen for it, but after she'd explained the heritage of the eighth playing piece - with the intent to continue through the other thirty-four pieces - my interest certainly started to wain! They've tried the same thing again since, I gather"...*

*..."well, I don't frequent the Myriad Market all that commonly in truth. I get most of my goods and provisions from the stalls that surround it, and that doesn't leave a lot of coin in the pocket for the kind of things they sell there, let alone the fanciful treasures that this Avoles seems to like to offer up. Still worth a visit though, I'd say, just to see what kind of things are available - but after a while the wanderlust fades, and you grow increasingly aware of the lack of weight in your pocket"...*

*..."last time I saw them though, they'd recently sold this old statuette to some well-to-do noble. Twisted thing, looked like it was made out of rusted nails, but the chap seemed interested enough. Even when the auctioneers corralled them to one side when the story-telling kept dragging on like usual, the noble never seemed to grow tired of it. Really drinking in the details, never once fiddling at his sleeves or high collar"...*]

## Whittengrove Magistrates - Nayeli Dahmythe & Deston Cloudfang (Whittengrove-based)

### Inquiry by Ashewan Norvegicus - 132WD, Ardor-Amberlight

[*..."Magistrate Deston Cloudfang is quick to dissuade claims that he gained his station through nepotism, and over the years has sought to appease folk from all walks of life that have been quick to offer up such calls and claims. Recently though, it seems that he has started to enjoy the boons of having friends with deep pockets, and so widespread adoration from his constituents is starting to wain. He got my vote initially, but now I can't help but feel like my family and I were nothing by a box to step on to reach higher up the ladder"...*]

[..."*Dahmythe may be new to us, but she doesn't lack in ambition. She's got that spark, you know, that eagerness to advance, and pull her surroundings up with her. She's probably held more councillor surgeries since the flooding than Cloudfang has in the last half dozen years. Everything just seems to have fallen in line for her, and she has capitalised on that. Magistrate now, maybe, but who knows when election time comes round again"*...]

[..."*heard that Magistrate Deston is currently courting some lass, her mother some merchant noble based in the Pearls. Been spending a lot of time that way recently, every time he comes back seems more pompous than the last. Nonetheless, as long as he keeps giving out alms of food and clothing I won't fault him too greatly. Maybe not truly altruistic, nor the kind I'd have round for dinner, but as long as he's making sure I have dinner, I can't complain"*...]

[..."*got a lot of friends too, she has, in all sorts of places. Need help repairing your fishing skiff? She knows a fella that was trained by Samsos in Rydoon! Looking to learn halfling to charm the innkeep down the local keg and brew? She'll get you in touch with a scholar that'll have you flirting in no time! Neighbour proving to be raucous and interrupting your trance? Someone will pop by and have a quick word! Need that special something to surprise your parents on their big anniversary? She'll call in a few favours with a merchant friend and see what she can do! Happy to help, she is*"...]

[*..."he is much akin to that of his brother in many aspects, a product of their upbringing surely. Just as the Justiciar is determined, confident in his competencies and convictions, his younger brother Deston shares in as such. The blue blood of nobility may not run through the veins of their family tree, but you wouldn't know it. Many would argue they were made to lead, Deston certainly amongst them"...*]

## Yesora's Moonstone Pendant (Khonoldhur-based)

### Inquiry by Arnica - 135WD, Vluk-Amberlight

[...*"and you say its got a big moonstone in the centre of it? Probably was mined here, I'd say, probably shaped and made here too. Moonstones seem to be drawn up in abundance from the Roots, they say that the Moonstode's recently been gifted one the size of a baby's head - surely it is the largest in all of Ahlus! At the Adamanthane's suggestion, it is to be mounted atop the tallest tower in the Palace of the Duumvirate, a channel cut into the mountainside so that it catches the moonlight for all to see. Heard there is some disagreement whether to leave it in its raw form or facet it though!"*...]

[...*"the pendant you're describing certainly sounds like the ones that some of the members of the Banners are granted after so many years service. And you say it is about this big? Yeah, that sounds about right. For those affiliated with the Moonstode specifically, as you might expect, those more aligned with the offices of the Adamanthane get a brooch made of adamantine - unlike the moonstone ones those are fairly weighty though, so tend to have to be secured very well, chains and clasps, that kind of thing. The Moonstode's token are far more dainty, perfect for a delicate chain or a single pin"*...]

[...*"near every finesmith in the city has some talent with moonstones, really, so I'm afraid that doesn't narrow it down much. Most of the blacksmith's too, the higher-ups in the Bynar Blades do love their adornments. Not just moonstones of course, but also peridots, spinels and sapphires. They are in high demand, so it is a good thing that they are in steady supply - although I've heard that there have been some troubles in The Roots with tremors. Nothing seems to be causing them, the Bynar Blades have seen extensively to that - instead it has been attributed to the shifting landmasses, like those that made the mountains to the west of the Ironfangs"*...]

[...*"I've made a fair few in my time, yes, various designs and filigrees that surround the central gemstone. Hooked swords, arrows and shields for the Bulwark, tools of trade for the Magnate, crops, vines and towers for the Plinth, stars and hands for the Prospect. Most of the orders recently have been replacements following losses - most claim they were stolen by pickpockets and yes, that's an issue and has been for many years, but I know many are probably just absent-minded and misplaced them. Nonetheless, it keeps business steady for the Telphinahi Guild, I can't complain"*...]

## Zeitgeist of Rydoon, 133WD (Rydoon-based)

### Inquiry by Rover Custard Augustine - 133WD, Jas-Greencrown

[..."*been tempted to finally take the Stregarch up on his offer. The salary they are offering for signing up to the army keeps increasing, and now they are offering a bonus to everyone that makes it to their third month of service without fault or issue. Quite a pretty sum really, could work a few years and I'd probably make as much as I do shaping clay in a decade*"...]

[..."*I can barely get my children to sleep at night anymore! And how could they sleep soundly, knowing that they could just be torn apart by a magical storm in the night like their father was? To serve in the retinue of Archon Iolita was meant to be an honour, not a sentence of death! I don't want compensation, I don't want answers, I just want my Zamol back, but there is nothing, not even ash to mourn over*"...]

[..."*only a couple of months to go until the next Games, and I've never found myself so blessed. The Archonos truly provides, and the new agreements he's made with Lord Howell have only bolstered trade. What with the folks of the south stealing up contracts and so forth, I was worried that I wouldn't have the supplies needed for my craft, and yet, I now have more than ever - and for a reasonable price too, all things considered*"...]

[..."*well, I must say, Virtued Master Augustine, the city seems to prosper all in all. Splendid show in the Games, I must say, real splendid, a worthy wearer of Kroai's Laurel of Victory. Now, I don't know if you, with all your influence, do you think you could help me with something? Oh, really? Well, that is great - I've lost my cat. Well, I say lost, more that it seems to have a habit of vanishing for a few days at a time, then returning like nothing happened, smelling like mildew and damp. I'll keep him inside for a few days, then he'll paw at wanting to leave, before racing off into the streets again. Tried to follow once, but you know how they are, slippery creatures*"...]

[..."*there was a time when a sun-filled Carrast would be praised, the rains of Pinnul welcomed, but they'll soon be reaching too far. Every year, it just seems to be worst than the last. Greencrown brings torrential rains that wash away the soils as we till them, Highreign bakes what remains hard and solid, devoid of air, of moisture, of life. Amberlight brings greater winds and storms than before, sweeping in from the Brumal Deep to tear at the crops, and the snows of Whiterose, well, now they seem cruel and malicious, hunting out heat with a voracity unmatched. How can I hope to help feed the Concord? Help feed my family? My cart is half empty now, hardly worth the travel to the city*"...]