The Haven Chronicles: Year 5

Continue your adventures in Phanterra here! Want to gather a party to scout out that mineshaft full of undead? Want to figure out what the results wereof your destruction of the world-rotation device? Find out here!

Moderator: Admin

Post Reply
GM-Mike
GM
Posts: 4491
Joined: Wed Sep 10, 2003 11:14 pm
Contact:

The Haven Chronicles: Year 5

Post by GM-Mike »

Call for Settlers! Find your fortune in the Wildlands!
By Josiah Mason, 2nd Scribe – The Chronicles of Haven

By the order of the Crown, all those seeking fame, fortune and adventure are hereby invited to settle in the newly-acquired Wildlands. Not for the faint of heart or weak of arm, these untamed lands offer great opportunities for those daring enough to carve riches from the wilderness. A new colony will be established in the next few moons, and those who are lucky enough to be among the first to settle there will be the first to make their mark. 

In addition, the Crown is offering grants of land and coin to a select number of citizens who apply to settle the Wildlands. Interested parties can apply for consideration at Blackwatch in Minister Francis’s office. Only a limited number of applicants will receive grants, so Minister Francis advises completing your application before the beginning of the Farmer’s Month. 

From the Seas
Seraphim Fleet Captain Spotlight
Gin Steel, Captain of the "Glorious Purpose"

By Arvellon Talmin, "Eyes and Ears" - The Chronicles of Haven

Time and permission was granted to sit down with each of the Captains of the Seraphim Fleet, answering many questions but leaving others in the winds. I was given an audience with the master of each vessel and present such so that the Kingdom of Haven and its Allies knows it has nothing to fear. If their actions since their reappearance weren't too silent, perhaps their words will be louder to listening ears.

The first spoken with was a man named Gin Steel, who was assumed to be the admiral of this fleet due to his vessel. That being the man-of-war "Glorious Purpose," largest of the Seraphim Fleet's assets. I instead learned that the fleet sails as a collective, under the command of not one but all as a group. I asked of Captain Gin how he approached command of his fleet, only to be calmly rebuffed. Gin replied, with a bit of a smile:
"I don't command a fleet. I captain a ship, as do my friends. The same tactics and reliance we have on each other in combat transfer well into our naval combat. We chose our ships based on that, and no amount of titles will improve that."

I also asked of him how he and his friends came into possession of these vessels. Gin responded as follows, and also gave us some insight into his past:
"I was a captain in the Silverthorne Navy before the cataclysm, and lots of ships got lost and thrown around. My original ship ended up in a desert...that one got stolen though. One was in a mountain; that one was a pain to recover. But in the end with the help of old friends and rumors we were able to find the ships you see before you."

Each Captain Spotlight will be presented in kind. Continue reading to learn of all 5.

In other news Seraphim Fleet recently came together to bring their full might to bear against a Kraken that had taken up residence off Haven's waters. Under sustained fire and unable to inflict damage on the vessels due to crew action the beast was driven off.

Change of hats in Haven Navy
By Linnet Summers, 2nd Scribe - The Chronicles of Haven

Since it's inception the Royal Navy of Haven has been a constant sight, both in port and on the seas. And always in command have been Commodore Zandron and Commander Mahto, the former leading the sailor while the latter lead the marines. But recently full command was granted to Commander Mahto, with Commodore Zandron taking a leave of absence. This incident came shortly after the loss of a second vessel of the Royal Navy, a full-rigged frigate christened "Indomitable." The vessel was lost during a violent encounter with an as-of-yet unknown enemy fleet, with at least half of her 110-man crew going down with her.

Cause of her loss was cited as poor command of her in the melee and unsound battle tactics. King Korrigan, while mourning the loss of so many brave sailors continued to express confidence in the Royal Navy and it's leaders, Commodore Zandron and Commander Mahto. The King continued, citing the Royal Navy's numerous victories against piracy and opposing forces, both manufactured and natural in Haven waters. Despite the confidence Commodore Zandron silently stepped down, granting full command of the Royal Navy to former Commander, now Acting Commodore Mahto.

Despite expressing uneasiness at the change Acting Commodore Mahto has taken to the role and continued where Commodore Zandron left off. It is said that Acting Commodore Mahto's first act was to find the vessels responsible for the loss of "Indomitable" and bring them to justice. The enemy was brought to battle in deep waters, but evaded heavy losses. It is said one disabled enemy vessel was intentionally scuttled before it could be captured. The Acting Commodore was noted to be in good spirits but showed remorse that more had not been accomplished.

Only time will tell how the Acting Commodore performs, and if Commodore Zandron will return to the fleet.

Earthquake shakes the land, damage reported across the realm. 
By Josiah Mason, 2nd Scribe – The Chronicles of Haven

Brandybrook scholars have confirmed that the massive tremor felt three nights ago was an event known as an "Earthquake". Reports have reached the Chronicle from as far away as the Troll Kingdom that people and buildings were damaged as a result of a violent shaking of the ground. 

Interior Minister Nellie Duncan told the Chronicle that some of the older residences in the villages suffered damage, but that most of Haven's structures escaped unharmed. Many residents reported livestock acting strangely before and after the event, and residents are asked to be on the look-out for several missing Axebeaks that escaped the Axebeak Ranch during the "quake". 

Haven scholars and sages have tracked magical traces back to the Wildlands, but are unable to investigate further due to the presence of a surprisingly violent storm. The Chronicle will release more information as it becomes available. 

Words from the Wild
Violent weather sends wildlife scattering

By Snarl Strongjaw, Wildlife Expert - The Chronicles of Haven

Odd non-seasonal weather has been present on the frontier recently, violent storms erupting on nearly a daily basis. Rather, it's been difficult to tell when one storm has ended and another has begun. A near-continuous barrage of lightning and high winds, accompanied by copper-sized hail and heavy rains has been lashing the frontier-lands following a rather hefty earthshake. Whether the two events have anything in common is only speculation, but it has caused an obvious change in the flora and fauna of the area.

Most swift herbivorous animals have left the immediate area in a massive exodus, though documentation shows not all of the large numbers of animals have departed. Some have appeared to hunker down in the relative safety of the forests, including local wolf and large predator populations. Migratory birds also left just prior to the earthshake, and aftershakes continue to rock the farmlands. The area will continue to be monitored, and the hope is for a change in the weather and return of the animals that left in the chaos.

Land Management Accounting Office announces new Property rules
By Josiah Mason, 2nd Scribe – The Chronicles of Haven

Due to the increasing size of Haven's population, and the growth of is borders King Korrigan has ordered the formation of the Land Management Administrative Offices, administered by Minister Bartholomew Francis, to regulate the disposition of land within the Kingdom. Those that desire to manage lands within the Kingdom will have two choices. 

The first will be the ability to purchase "Crown" Holdings, these holdings will be those that produce crops and materials for the Kingdom and will be sold directly to the Market at a favorable rate, which the owner will receive in coin. Come see the Land Management Offices if you are interested in more details.

The second type of land for sale will be "Frontier" Holdings, these holdings are those located within the newly annexed Wildlands. These holdings will be more directly under the control of the owner but due to their volatile nature and distance from the primary market, they will not share the favorable sell rates that "Crown" holdings enjoy. For more details please see the Land Management Accounting Offices or Minister Francis.

Along the Road
Bandit attacks more coordinated in recent months

By Linnet Summers, 2nd Scribe - The Chronicles of Haven

Increased emphasis on protected caravans has arisen in the wake of a series of highly-coordinated bandit attacks in the frontier-lands. Wagons containing goods such as medication and building materials were stolen, their smaller crews rendered unconscious but not slain. Those crews, when located were disoriented and had difficulty remembering the events in question. Veteran sages from Haven's investigative branch attempted to scour the scenes of the thefts, only to come up empty with an explanation.

This comes after bandit attacks had been severely reduced due to Haven and it's allies rooting out encampments and cutting off supply by sea. Recent military and naval actions had all but abolished banditry, and the influx of jobs and living space had provided so much for many within the borders of Haven and it's allies. One sage did inform us that given the resources utilized to disguise the crime scene from them, the group in question is highly resourceful.

Due to the nature of these attacks the armies under Haven's command have begun to supply the trade and travel routes to the frontier-lands with more troops. Exact numbers have not been confirmed, but it is hoped that it is enough to quell these attacks and bring the individuals responsible to account for their actions.

Riddle Resurfaces!
By Liar Luris, scribe - The Chronicles of Haven
At last! It seems we finally have the whole story of the Tears of Gold riddle that has fascinated and enthralled people from all over the Vanguard alliance for the better part of three years. The third installment was found posted as the others before it, but with an unexpected and unprecedented post script.

So much time left unspoken,
Memories lost and left for Broken,
This treasure more than Tears of Gold
A world remade if the stars behold.

This Doom delayed as long as skies,
Beyond where strands of shadows dies.
A plea, a cry to see the sun,
That what was wrought shall be undone.

The Forgotten Throne will wake once more,
Fate locked behind the Blackfire Door,
The Moon calls out with subtle song,
Unweave the prison held so long.

– Please... help me.

And so it seems we will unlikely receive another piece of this puzzle, as whomever has set the Alliance this mysterious challenge has never revealed themselves and has thus stated their simple conclusion. Scholars still hotly debate whether these three riddles are even actually related, differing as they do in tone, but it is the opinion of this reporter, and most treasure seekers, that they are, in fact, one single connected work. People are more driven than ever to decrypt the riddle in hope both of answers and of unimaginable treasure.

Funnies (Answers at end of publication)
1. How much does a pirate pay for corn?
2. What's it called when you lend money to a bison?
3. Why did the cookie cry?
4. Did you hear about the hyena who drank a pint of gravy?
5. What do you get when you cross a sheep with a bee?
What does the cannibal do after dumping his girlfriend?

Corw'in'Dar opens Library, Expands beyond Borders
By Ieram Allshead, Foreign Correspondent - The Chronicles of Haven
Today marks the grand reopening of the Obsidian Library of Corw'in'Dar. This hugely elaborate and colossally sized edifice is styled in sweeping obsidian that looks like polished waves of smokey golden glass. Sitting as it does at mouth of the Silver River, so named for the unique metallic silver quality of the water, it has access to the Corsair Sea. The city seems to be the perfect Elven Seaport. With these factors in mind, the director of the Library hopes to see a free exchange of lore between the other such institutions popping up across the Alliance.

The Regent of Corw'in'Dar Alyssias Starwinder commented that he 'looks forward to seeing the collective wisdom of all peoples increased and enriched by a collaborative effort to preserve and spread learning. The more we can dispel the fog of ignorance and barbarism and become a more unified, enlightened people, the better life for all of Phantara will be.”

In order to support this desire to spread learning, the Obsidian Library had begun talks with many of the members of the Alliance seeking grants to found smaller, satellite libraries to work in partnership with the main branch. It is their sincere hope that in this way, they can assure the right and proper exchange of lore and ideas.

Whispers are, however, that not everyone in the elven kingdom is happy about this new policy of open learning and cultural sharing. Some still harken to an age of what they consider elven superiority. While most have put the War of Elven Aggression behind them, some, it seems, are not so soon to forget.

Catastrophe in Woodhold. Uneasy Relations.
By Carmac Winterwater, Senior Scribe –The Chronicles of Haven
The Vanguard Alliance held a silent memorial marking what has now been a month since the shocking assassination in Woodhold. A month ago, royal guards discovered King Roderick and his daughter Daalny encased in stone, and all attempts by scholars to undo the process have failed. Members of the Wizards Guild in Woodhold have been baffled by the curse, which they believe was a deliberate attack, and they fear that even if the royal family could be returned to flesh, that they would not be living at the end of the transformation. One of four recently unearthed second cousins, Terrowin Gilbain, has taken the throne. Tensions in the Vanguard Council have never been higher, as sources say Terrowin until recently believed that Haven was in some way responsible for the assassination, though no proof has been put forward, and no culprit has been found. King Korrigan and the Vanguard Council meet again with King Terrowin tomorrow. It does not seem like the new king of Woodhold will leave the council, as some have feared, but sources say it makes for a very uneasy alliance.

Brandybrook Grows
By Ieram Allshead, Foreign Correspondent - The Chronicles of Haven
Due to the recent influx of new lore and learning, Brandybrook announced that they will begin more ardently pursuing options and plans to expand their network of libraries and learning centers. They already have a few such institutions peppered about several of the cites of the Alliance, but with the population and cultural growth the region has seen the need for more education and lore cataloging has also increased.

The most recent additional to the growing Acadamy is a new branch opening in Caldonia, collecting the works found in the cities old condemned homes. A large number of books detailing the history of the Avayana, a mysterious race at the best points in time, have caused a number of birds to roost in the burned downed buildings. Some have begun to rebuild, hoping to find more information on their complicated history.

It is their hope that within the next five years they can have a true university constructed, with sister library centers in every capitol in the Alliance. In this way, they can encourage and nurture the educational development of a region seeking to truly embody all of the best aspects of civilization.

Silverkeep Begins Talks with the Alliance
By Idyyrilah Enthrada, Foreign Correspondant - The Chronicles of Haven
Far to the north of Haven proper is a city few even know exists. Pulled out of time during the Joining Cataclysm, the fortress city of Silverkeep only really began interacting with Haven a little over eight years ago. Run by the old Silverthorn Knights of the Rose and Thorn, it is also the home of many diverse but keenly defined organizations that have survived mostly unchanged since the days of the kingdom.

Queen Fionna and Sir Marcus visited the city that has often welcomed the couple once more this spring to celebrate the first day of the new season. The two are familiar faces 'round the walled city, having made frequent trips to establish relations between the two cities. This visit seems to have drawn a good deal of anticipation, as insiders report that there are talks between Silverkeep and Haven as to the nature of their diplomatic standing. Silverkeep has long stood as an autonomous City State, but with borders never being firmly established, talks are needed.

The Mages Academy also reached out, expressing that members of the Alliance were more than welcome to send their best and brightest to the Academy if desire should arise. This was met with interest by many, and wariness by others. Even in this late age of the world, it seems, some are still cautious about too many mages gathered in one place.

For the time being, Silverkeep retains its beneficial friendship with the Alliance, happy to see the people of the world reestablishing order out of the chaos of a decade ago.

Featured Focus: Beastmen
By Ki'tal Lor'sith, Foreign Correspondent - The Chronicles of Haven
The Beastmen are an interesting race as they represent one of the more diverse Phanterran people in existence. It is common knowledge that the Beastmen did not exist until after the second cataclysm, where men were turn to half-beasts and some beasts were turned to half-man. This is actually not completely the truth. In actuality, many types of beastmen existed before the Cataclysm, but in very small numbers. Most groups were dying out and on the verge of extinction when the Cataclysm occurred. One could say this massively destructive force re-birthed a dying nation!

The most frequent question I hear asking about the wild and untamed ones is their life expectancy. It would be understandable to assume that the individual will only live as long as their bestial side, but this would be wrong. Actually, it stems from what the individual was BEFORE the Cataclysm or who her parents were. If she was human before being changed, then she would live as long as a human would. If she were changed to a half-human, then she would live as her bestial side would. By-the-by, it is not wise to question one old enough to have lived through the Change (which is what most refer to the Cataclysm as). I have heard only a handful of stories and they are some of the most painful experiences I have ever heard.

My favorite subject is within the realm of Beastman physiology. The children of Beastman are the most fascinating subject for discussion. It seems that the child will take on the bestial traits of a single parent, not both. On top of that, the life expectancy of a child is based on the parents as well. The number of children a parent can have, the ways in which a Beastman may rear their child, and the manner in which they treat their young is very unique as it combines in a very intricate and delicate way aspects from each parents heritage.

The last point I will touch on is a very specific subset of Beastmen: birds and oxen. It is a complicated manner to tell the difference between an Avyana or Tsunotaur and their distant cousin the Beastman. They are similar in appearance, attitude, and mentality. Most Tsunotaur and Avyana find it insulting to be called 'Beastman', where most Beastman do not care either way. I, unfortunately, can not tell you how to identify them properly, only to warn you not to assume.

Savage Beast killed!
By Zee Zee Manderlay, special correspondant, The Chronicles of Haven
A beast in the woods that has caused the deaths of nearly a dozen innocent people over two months is no more. The tracker, a man named Gelaran Trask, who led the expedition after it confirms that the beast is well and truly dead. 

He also says the resident Hearthknight Marcus Gideon was instrumental in ending the twisted beast's reign of terror. "The man can't hardly follow his OWN tracks in the woods, so I was doubtful at first that he would be much help out there," Gelaran commented, "but you know what? When we came face to face with that thing, I was damn thankful for the hurt that big hammer of his can lay down. And he sure showed a lot of care fixing up my hunters that were nearly killed in the process, too. When it comes to putting down unnatural, bloodthirsty creatures, that there's a man I definitely want on my side."

Harrison’s Gift
By Carmac Winterwater, Senior Scribe –The Chronicles of Haven
A Sylvanni caravan from distant lands arrived in Redemption yesterday with a message for the queen, and a gift of two wagons, painted exquisitely in giltsilver. The Sylvanni claimed they were gifts from the former queen and her brother, Esmeralda and Aeric Harrison, who had left them in the Sylvanni’s care seven years ago with the cryptic message to deliver them upon Fionna’s marriage. It took the far afield caravan three years to hear the news of matrimony and return. After abdicating her throne, Esmeralda Harrison left with her brother on a quest to save her unborn child from a deadly curse. The Sylvanni heard rumors that they were not successful, or perhaps only partially successful [there are conflicting reports that the former queen gave birth to either one child, or twins, and either one, or both of them, died]. Esmeralda and Aeric have never been seen from since. It’s said they may have forsaken the world completely in their grief, or died from a sickness related to their quest far from Haven. Perhaps in some way they knew they would not return, for sources say their message was not a letter, but simply twin engravings upon the wagons: ”Congratulations on your wedding. Our dearest love goes with you.” And, “Haven prospers in your care. Our dearest hope goes with you.”

Haven Heroes Travel for Big Wedding
By Zee Zee Manderlay, special correspondant, The Chronicles of Haven
Haven was quiet these past few days as many attended the wedding of Serith, the new Emperor of the Da'Lenal Empire, and his lovely bride, Adonalyn. As you may recall, just over a year ago Serith was finally able to successfully lead the people of Damara in a revolt and overthrew the Emperor Arkheon. The wedding was well attended and reportedly much merriment and fellowship followed

Counselor Toritaka visits with newly named “Savage Phoenix” tribe in Dar’dakous
By Josiah Mason, 2nd Scribe – The Chronicles of Haven

The group of Ga’vin living in Dar’dakous received a visit from Counselor Toritaka yesterday, according to a statement released by the Interior Ministry. Haven’s foremost expert on relations with other cultures, Counselor Toritaka was escorted through Dar’dakous by Commander Mahto, the defacto leader of the Ga’vin living there. 

While in Dar’dakous Counselor Toritaka witnessed the return of several adolescent Ga’vin who then participated in ceremony marking their transition into adulthood. Commander Mahto then named the group the “Savage Phoenix” tribe and a celebration began shortly thereafter. 

Orchard Arsonists 
By Carmac Winterwater, Senior Scribe –The Chronicles of Haven
Just south of Redemption, the orchard of Arniesta, famed for its blue-green apples, caught fire last night, and many trees were damaged. Authorities suggest it was arson. It took all night, and most of the morning to put out the flames. Knights of the Green –now members of the Council of Knightly Orders thanks in large part to Marcus Gideon- were seen on hand organizing water lines, transporting saplings, and building barricades of earth. Arniesta herself reported a mysterious winged dwarf amongst them, carrying plants back and forth. “I say, those knights are very odd, but they know their stuff. Bandages, fresh beds, healing salves- and I mean all for the apples! Who knew you could heal an apple!”

Loki, Tyr announce new music offerings at The Tipsy Traveler. 
By Josiah Mason, 2nd Scribe – The Chronicles of Haven

The Tipsy Traveler would like to announce a new concert series featuring two regular favorites, Tyr and Loki. After playing back-to-back for many months during the Tipsy Traveler’s dinner hours, Tyr and Loki have decided to combine their efforts and create a new and unique concert experience. 

The show, called “The Bard and the King," will begin this weekend and run through the summer. More information is available at the Tipsy Traveler. 

Soldiers in Uggtown
By Carmac Winterwater, Senior Scribe –The Chronicles of Haven
Minor threats from King Terrowin of Woodhold in reference to Uggtown have caused King Korrigan to position troops in the mining settlement purely as a defensive measure. Uggtown, on the border between Haven and Woodhold, sprung up three years ago when ore was discovered in the area deep underground. Originally populated by orcish minors, both Tsunotaurs and humans alike have flocked to the area, lured by the promise of easy wealth, and the town has only grown since. The king and queen have promised that no harm shall come to the mining town. No battles have erupted, and all hopes are that things can be settled peacefully soon. The increased garrison was greeted amicably, and Uggtown officials have been working in conjunction with Redemption to build temporary housing to keep the soldiers well out of the way of the miners.

Illund amongst those to Settle Wildlands
By Zee Zee Manderlay, special correspondant, The Chronicles of Haven
Illund, the young man who has been a feature of this newspaper in a previous edition and who many of us Havenites have watched grow over the years, will be, along with his mother, one of the first settlers of the Wildlands. He will be assisting Wynthor, a respected craftsman of the Fishing Village, in creating many of the buildings for the new settlers.

Rumors
It seems that a large group of Ga'Vin have settled near the wildlands frightening a large number of farmers. They seem peaceful at this time, but given the relative silence which they maintain, it is hard to understand exactly what they are looking for.

A new devastating weather phenomenon has been sighted near the Chaos Mountains. The 'Hurricano' seems to be a spinning cyclone of magical fire. Researchers from all around the Vanguard Alliance have begun the journey to see this new strange phenomenon.

The Corsair Isles have reported a significant drop in fish populations. After a brief study, it was found that they had all descended an additional thirty feet down. This poses a difficult time as fishermen must adjust their lines appropriately. Further study is needed to find the reason and long-term effects of such an odd occurrence.

Personals
The Brandybrook Academy and all of its sister locations are asking for any and all interested in adventuring for lost treasures and ancient knowledge to please inquire with a a local representative. Donations welcome!

The town of Uggtown would like to express their thanks to Sir Marcus Gideon for his aid in raising the new water wheel for their mill. There was much appreciation that day for the effort (and strong backs!) that he arrived with- almost as much as there was for afterwards, when all those sore muscles happened to have a paladin in attendance! 

The Yo-Yos for Youngsters Group is meeting again this month on the second Second day to create these special toys for the youth of Haven and surrounding areas. They will be meeting at the second house south of the Graves Family (the first Graves family, not the Second) at two o'clock.

Funnies Answers
1. A buccaneer
2. A Buffaloan
3. Because his mother was a wafer so long
4. He was a laughing stock
5. A bah-humbug
6. Wipes his butt
Post Reply