Ruins of Adventure

Slums Academy Faculty

5 Nightal, Year of the Helm

Name: Manabu of the Burning Mind

Professions Taught: All manner of wizardly spellcasters
Average Training Time: 2 weeks (per level)
Weapons Taught: Blades Broad Group, Spears Tight Group
Non-weapon Proficiencies Taught: Modern Languages (Jogishk, Tharian, Auld Tharian, Chuklian, Daraktan), Literacy, Survival (Arctic), Acting, Disguise, Etiquette, Information Gathering, Intrigue, Alertness, Looting, Spellcraft, Ancient History (Tribes of Thar), Teaching, Chaos Shaping
Magical Paths Taught: Path of the Bandit, Aberrant Path, Giant’s Path, Path of Swords, Path of Smoke, Timekeeper’s Road, Path of the Mind, Jeweler’s Road, Road of True Names, Road of Seals and Wardings, Firesight Path, Path of Counterspells, Walled Path, Lifeshielder’s Path, Prophet’s Path, Servant’s Path

Name: Wollaeger the Chandler

Professions Taught: All manner of priests
Average Training Time: 2 weeks (per level)
Weapons Taught: Arquebus, Warhammer, Quarterstaff, Sling, Whip
Non-weapon Proficiencies Taught: Modern Languages (Yugoloth, Lillendi, Gith, Mulhorandi, Tharian, Planar Slang), Literacy, Ancient History (Mulhorandi), Athletics, Religion, Hiding, Herbalism, Chandler, Lens Crafting, Glassblowing, Engineering, Clockwork Creation, Ropemaking, Knot Wards, Major Knot Wards, Bribery, City Familiarity (Phlan)

Name: Huafk

Professions Taught: All manner of warriors
Average Training Time: 2 weeks (per level)
Weapons Taught: Shortbow (High Mastery), Longbow (Specialization), Light Crossbow (Specialization), Bows Tight Group, Crossbows Tight Group, Shortsword
Non-weapon Proficiencies Taught: Modern Languages (Tharian, Chuklian, Warg), Detect New Construction, Detect Pits and Deadfalls, Land-based Riding (Warg), Animal Handling (Warg), Venom Handling, Bowyer/Fletcher, True Aim, Camouflage, Hunting, Foraging, Venom Handling, Artistic Ability (Wood Carving)

Name: Ohlo

Professions Taught: All manner of rogues
Average Training Time: 2 weeks (per level)
Weapons Taught: Hornhead Staff (Specialization), Katana (Specialization), Long Blades Tight Group, Staves Tight Group
Non-weapon Proficiencies Taught: Disarm Traps, Locksmithing, Pick Pockets, Hiding, Literacy, Astrology, Astronomy, Navigation, Gem Cutting, Ancient History (Kur-Tharsu), Spellcraft, Recharge, Sabotage, Raise Army, Offensive Tactics

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SEP/2020

The Strategic Dungeons Incantation Limitation Treaty (SDILT)

5 Hammer, Year of the Wyvern, 1363 DR

Here contains an account of SDILT by Falthin Arakis.

The Strategic Dungeons Incantation Limitation Treaty, commonly referred to as SDILT, was an agreement between adventuring companions within the Rough Rack adventuring group, Curufinwe Nightstar of the Elven Court, his elder brother Maglor Maehdros and Baron Mak’kar of the Twilight Swamp. It was overseen under the supervision of Falthin Arakis, Diplomat of Archendale during a time period when tensions between The Rough Rack and their Elvish Adventuring companion Curufinwe Nightstar were high. This culminated with the coming of Curifinwe’s brother Maglor, on an errand to pressure the former to return to his homeland and fulfil his duty.

Maglor, clad in helm and riding upon a Griffon was viewed by those staying within the fort as a potential aggressor. Fearing for some of the horses stabled within the fort, Thiondar Cadrona gave the order for archers manning the walls to loose arrows, piercing the beast many times. Recognising the likeness of the Rider’s Griffon to the one he knew as a child, argued that an expedition to verify the identify of the helmed rider should be undertaken. Supported by members of the Rough Rack, Falthin Arakis and 20 horses that were summoned by Jack the Bird, the party left the fort gates and returned shortly thereafter with the elder of the Elven kin.

Shortly after entering the fort the question of a successful expedition into the Ruins within the Twilight Swamp came into question. Members of the Rough Rack and the Elvish brothers both possessed a vested interest in entering the ruins but were unable to control their language twoards one another when discussing terms of the expedition. Under permission from Baron Mak’kar, Falthin mediated the conflict and, in doing so, drafted an established set of guidelines that members wishing to enter the ruins would agree to.

SDILT Guidelines (First Draft)

1. The established looting rules shall be adhered to (in reference to the agreements outlined between Baron Mak’kar, the Rough Rack and Elvish companions)
2. Members who enter the ruins willingly are not to, in anyway, be placed in harms way without willingly accepting the risk (referring to the ensuring the safety of Elvish folk in entering the ruins)
3. Spells and effects, notably those that aid in underwater exploration and breathing, are to be cast to the benefit of all party members in mind. Magical effects that would act in the interest of self over the interest of the mission shall not be used without permission from those who would be adversely affected.
4. Parties shall acknowledge the mutually beneficial relationship by which elven, half-elven, and any other bloodlines gain in accomplishing the mission. (Referring to mitigating the racial divides between Curufinwe and Falthin, and members of the Rough Rack and The Elvish Brethern)
5. Those of elvish descent shall, if possible, report and advise on how those of non-elvish bloodline may proceed through the warded areas of the ruins (Referring to the necessity of discourse and team work between all parties involved in the expedition)

Upon introducing these items multiple amendments were made and appended until the majority of participants agreed they were acceptable. These additions are omitted from this document for security reasons and known only to those with access to the formal document.

The legality of SDILT is of some debate. In fact, historians debate as to whether or not the members who agreed it even intended to enforce it in the first place or whether or not everyone at the meeting participated in the ceremony solidifying it. Despite this, it did pave the way for future documents and agreements of a similar nature to be used or enforced in order to solve disputes.

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OCT/2019

Falthin's Log Journal Entry 3 Hammer, Year of the Wyvern, 1363 DR

I have since returned from Slash’s village and after being presented with a medallion of friendship by he and his peoples. It was a great honor. It took me great pains to leave and miss the opportunity to acquire their speech but I have, instead, opted to return to Mak’kar’s fort and request he train me in the ways of riding horse. Bringing my horse Shadowmane here was folly and I owe it to her an honest effort of increasing her chances of escaping alive. That task begins with me learning to ride her in this manner of terrain.

+ 2 days.

My training has begun. It is difficult but enjoyable. In my downtime I have befriended the Kenku Seabhag, a curious traveler. From looks alone he frightens me, but I feel he will be a useful and knowledgeable companion in the place we are about to travel.

+ 1 day

I have agreed to aid Seabhag in creating a laboratory. Although my buttocks are sore from riding, I provided him with servant to aid with some heavy lifting and movement of useful objects. I hope that one day I can impart some additional knowledge I carry to him.

+ 3 weeks

Mak’kar is a tough person to understand. Perhaps it is a necessity for a man in his position. I requested additional supplies to help Seabhag, hoping my diplomatic ties to my homeland would be of some influence. This was an utter failure. He is adamant that the kitchens contain nothing while refusing entrance to verify such a claim. I suspect he’s hiding something. Without proof though I must operate under the assumption that he is earnest in his claim.

+ 1 week.

Training complete. I realize that Curufinwe is of importance to the impending expedition. Each day I question whether to accompany the party or not. My only choice is to move forward with my mandate though.

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SEP/2019

Falthin's Log / Journal Entry 26 Uktar, Year of The Helm

This is a recording of the events between King Slash, formerly ‘Slash’ and his people as written by Falthin Arakis of The Archendale.

Participants included:

King Slash The Rider, formerly ‘Slash The Rider’
Lizard tribe
Thiondar Cardona
Curfinwe Nightstar of The Elven Court
Jack
AGnegNegdariagn StongFeather
Seabag aka ol’Blue Eyes
Falthin Arakis of The Archendale

Let it be known that the events preceding this meeting are crucial to the matters documented, but that they are all together a separate tale. For any party wishing to understand the proceedings in further detail, any of the participants of this meetings would be of use. For this reason, I and I alone (Faltin Arakis of The Archendale) shall keep their identities secret until acquired knowledge of what occurred surpasses the need for anonymity. Participants of the meeting are, of course, exempted from this pledge, even if it means placing myself in harms way. Had it not been for myself coming to this foreign land, it is entirely possible that the matters discussed would be lost in time. Thus, this journal is, as far as I know, the only living document for what occurred on that day.

Let it be known that the legality of matters discussed in this journal are of no concern to this document.

Let it also be known that the details contained within this document were first communicated in Lizard Speech, between Slash and his people and then translated into Tharian by Slash, to Falthin of The Archendale. For this reason, certain words, phrases and expressions may be debatable and not entirely accurate. It is entirely possible, although I deem it improbable, that the final words spoken by Slash were altogether false, devious, deceitful or misguided.

How to begin…

This, as all other stories, is but another weave in the knots of time. It is not for us to measure the validity of such tales, but rather to play our part as others have before us…

And so it was that Slash the Rider was crowned King of his people, a title that carried both great responsibility and honor. This achievement was partly due to circumstance and deed. Regarding the former, Slash is one of the few remaining able bodied creatures within his Tribe. By default this provides him with a strong claim to the throne. Regarding the latter, Slash slew the former leader of his Lizard tribe, who he viewed as misguided. He then bravely entered The Baron Mak’kar’s fort where he negotiated a treaty to release his tribe’s eggs which were being held hostage. The eggs were taken to his tribespeople, a deed which assured the survival of Slash brought the eggs to his tribespeople and assured them that their bloodlines would live on. Approaching the council, Slash imparted this information willfully to his people and they accepted his claim to the throne. In addition, they welcomed those with which he traveled, showering them with gifts of food, health, coin, gems. Of especially notable interest were the following:

(OOC: These items would be drawn with as much detail as possible in the journal, and their descrpitons would be documented alongside the sketches)

Arrows: https://ruins-of-adventure.obsidianportal.com/items/alicorn-arrows?fbclid=IwAR22WJrLQIuRUkjsPltwc9siOVqCHLln7zgqyn-nvjnu60km3biglEDt-vI

Sword: https://ruins-of-adventure.obsidianportal.com/items/invincible?fbclid=IwAR2l8H075wLsYPLGpgQXKxFWqog0VhuTB6JGdyx48uyTiSSoAjmQQ2DPfBg

Ring: https://ruins-of-adventure.obsidianportal.com/items/ring-of-shifting-stars?fbclid=IwAR2_hFuitakl6gEQ8DAaQmmFqP44KGqFXa5FTW9FfoaHflmpl_j5DqcJaxY

As Curfinwe Nightstar peered his head over the pile of jewels and treasure being presented, Thiondar Cardona and Zolushika reached out and studied three items of interest.

Signed:

Falthin Arakis
26th day of Uktar, Year of The Helm

(OOC: The dialogues and words spoken during this meeting as translated from Lizard to Tharian and then written down, would also be contained within this journal entry. These occurred over period of several weeks during June/July of 2019).

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JUL/2019

Campaign Lore: Regarding Adamantite

From the writings of the deceased sage Elminster…

Let’s get this out of the way: ‘Adamantine’ is an adjective. ‘Adamantite’ is an ore. ‘Adamantium’ is the finished product.

Fact: The hardest metal is adamantium.

Adamantium isn’t just hard the way that steel is “hard”, it is hard the way that the Pythagorean theorem is true. Once a piece of adamantium has cooled, its atoms are (nearly) immovable with respect to each other.

Most items made of adamantium are thinner than you might think, since a small piece is just as strong as a large piece. The size of adamantine items has more to do with the difficulty of forging them.

Adamantite ore is found only in starfalls. Once it has been forged, the metal is beyond strength. Many speculate that the metal becomes lost to time, impervious to any change at all. An adamantium object will survive the heat death of the universe. When the solar system collapses into a black hole, it will be covered with adamantine swords.

Speaking of adamantine swords: the best adamantine swords are mostly made from steel. Only the merest sliver near the cutting edge is made from adamantium, since an adamantium toothpick is as strong as adamantium girder. The steel is only there to give it weight, since a featherweight sword is still a poor cutting instrument.

The cutting ability of an adamantium weapon is decent, at best. Since the blade can never be sharpened, the edge can only be honed prior to quenching. No one is certain how the ancient blacksmiths sharpened their adamantium blades to such a fine point, but that information would be worth a fortune if it were rediscovered in some ancient dungeon.

Adamantium makes for better armor than weapons, although it is defeated by its cost. Any king who can afford a suit of adamantine armor can also afford an army—and that king is much better served by the army.

Because of this, newly claimed adamantite is usually destined for architecture or furniture.

There are a few different ways to forge adamantium. The most commonly known way is use one of the dwarven lightning forges, a task that requires as much diplomacy as luck. There is a well-known forge among Clan Griff, but securing the location is difficult. A finished item of adamantium can never be melted down, reforged, or remade in any meaningful way short of a Wish or similar magic.

It is also a perfect insulator, but few people care about the insulating properties of adamantium, since it isn’t very relevant to swords. Still, the thermal sensation of adamantium is closer to styrofoam than steel.

It is commonly believed that adamantite meteors are actually fragments of the original sun, which displeased Ao with its blasphemy.

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JUN/2019

Falthin's Journal Entry 26 Uktar, Year of the Helm

I have been afforded the luxury of traveling to the fort outpost of Baron Mak’kar in the swamp adjacent to Phlan. As protection we’ve been afforded a small contingent of guards and a herald (Lyra). She is a curious creature. The journey, by Lyra’s estimate is not long, although the last 2-3 miles through the swamp are rumored to be difficult. Lucikly I have Shadowmane to bear my belongings.

My official purpose on this mission remains the same: Observe, document and, when viable, report. This is a precarious situation and my heart tells me something is awry back home and I do not know if or how it is linked with the decision to send me here. As such, I have decided to only report what is necessary to the Archendale command. Any and all correspondence regarding the true nature of my errand shall be entrusted within the contents of this journal, which I will carry on me at all times. Information of a more sensitive nature will be, when viable, delivered to the one that I trust.

Before leaving, I took tie to prepare the necessary spells in case trouble arose on the road, feed Ash and see to it that my belongings in New Phlan were situated appropriately upon my return. It is difficult to read the situation in this city at present. We depart at daybreak.

Falthin Arakas

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JUN/2019

Proclamations and Rumors: Week 18

24 Uktar, Year of the Helm

Proclamations

The following proclamations have been posted outside the Council Hall:

From the City Council of New Phlan to all brave and hearty adventurers:

Proclamation CLIV
Be it known that the council has proclaimed a generous bounty for each undead killed within the bounds of Valhingen Graveyard. Be it also known that in addition to said bounty, the council is willing to provide a special enchanted item, useful in the destruction of undead, to any group of adventurers which accepts the commission to cleanse Valhingen Graveyard. Apply to the city clerk for said commission.

Proclamation CLXX
Be it known that the council is interested in obtaining information concerning bands of insect-men known to plague the grassy planes to the west of New Phlan. Said insect men are a hazard to transportation to and from Zhentil Keep. A reward is offered to any person or persons who return with complete information on the, location, disposition, and intentions of the insect-men. Apply to the council clerk for a commission.

Proclamation CCI
Be it known that the council is interested in clearing obstacles to re-establishing a trade route to the east. Said obstacles currently include an infestation of lizard men in the swamps to the east. A reward is offered to any who can locate the source of the infestation and remove the lizard men as an obstacle to trade. A commission may be obtained from the Council Clerk.

Proclamation CCXXVIII
Be it known that the Council has proclaimed a generous bounty for any information pertaining to the rash of petrifications happening in the are around the Old Library. Be it also known that an additional award shall be presented for the removal of this threat to our city and its people. A commission may be obtained from the Council Clerk.

Proclamation CCXLIV
Be it known that it is the desire of the Council to bring outlying settlements and villages under the protection of New Phlan. Deeds, titles, and emoluments shall be granted to any person or persons able to bring such a settlement under the Council’s jurisdiction and defend it from outside threats.

The following advertisments have been posted outside the Training Hall:

Open Positions:
The Council of New Phlan has immediate openings for instructors in the arts of Mysticism, Shadow Walking, and ~~Genie Binding~~ at the Public Training Hall of New Phlan. Only fully-credentialed, trained educators with extensive field experience need apply. These are full-time positions and may include some administrative and student advisement work. Starting pay is 100gp per week (commensurate with experience). Candidates should present themselves to the clerk of the Council of New Phlan.

An Addendum: All faculty positions for Practitioners of Other Arts have been filled. No further applications for these positions are being accepted. Anyone attempting to put forward such an application shall be ejected from the premises immediately.

An Addendum to the Addendum: All faculty positions for the schools of Magecraft, Languages, and General Education have been filled. No further applications for these positions are being accepted. Anyone attempting to put forward such an application shall be ejected from the premises and set on fire.
…This means you Silren. — signed Taleah Loughgren

An Addendum to the Addendum to the Addendum: Be it known that we have a faculty opening in the School of Magecraft. Only wizards showing particular aptitude and specialization in their field need apply. No applications for Generalists are being accepted at this time. Anyone attempting to put forward such an application shall be ejected from the premises, set on fire, and thrown off the wall.
…This means you Silren. — signed Taleah Loughgren

By Personal Request of Councilman Ulrich Eberhard
Be it known that a ~~substantial award~~ reward of ~~ten-thousand~~ ~~fifteen-thousand~~ ~~twenty-thousand~~ ~~twenty-five-thousand~~ thirty-thousand gold pieces shall be offered to any heroes recovering the painting titled “False Chanterelle” by the artist Sheklesh from the grounds of Kadorna Mansion. Those wishing to claim the reward should bring the fully intact painting to Eberhard House during the first or second watch. Ask for Guillaume.

For Auction:
An artifact of GREAT POWER discovered in the ruins of the Old Library. Auction to take place in the plaza in front of the Cadorna Textile Mill, at two bells after the Forenoon Watch, on the Feast of the Moon.

General Rumors about Town

With all the free slaves confiscated by the Council, the Cadorna Textile business is booming.
In addition to the food shortages, all of the coin in town is apparently debased…nothing but Electrum. Inflation is out of control.
The Council has put forward a bill to begin minting its own currency.
The Gnoll Army still hasn’t attacked. Maybe they got lost.
The Gnoll Army was just an illusion, created by the Necromancer of the Quivering Forest.
The dragon was sighted flying over the city again. This time the witnesses all agree that it was Silver-coloured…or maybe just gray…or white.
The Undead from Valhingen Graveyard have started venturing forth to attack the North-siders.
The Sunnites have been on a rampage lately, smashing all the statues left by the Basilisk attacks because the looks of terror on all the faces were too ‘unattractive’.
People taking water from Kuto’s Well have started complaining about fevers.
A new Bazaar has sprung up out near the far end of the West Phlan Road, past Kuto’s Well, for merchant’s trying to evade Council Tariffs.

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DEC/2018

Proclamations and Rumors: Week 15

3 Uktar, Year of the Helm

Proclamations

The following proclamations have been posted outside the Council Hall:

From the City Council of New Phlan to all brave and hearty adventurers:

Proclamation CCI
Be it known that the council is interested in clearing obstacles to establishing a trade route to the east. Said obstacles currently include an infestation of lizard men in the swamps to the east. A reward is offered to any who can locate the source of the infestation and remove the lizard men as an obstacle to trade. A commission may be obtained from the Council Clerk.

Proclamation CLXXII
Be it known that beginning this, the twenty-eighth day of Eliasis, The Year of the Helm, 1362, the the buying and selling of male and female slaves of humanoid disposition shall not be allowed within the bounds of New Phlan. Any person or persons found to be engaged in the buying or selling of a humanoid slave shall be subject to a fine of not less than twenty and not more than 60 gold coins, and all properties, both fiscal and personal, associated with such a transaction shall be remit to the sole use and discretion of the Council of New Phlan in perpetuity.

The following advertisments have been posted outside the Training Hall:

Open Positions:
The Council of New Phlan has immediate openings for instructors in the arts of Mysticism, Shadow Walking, and Genie Binding at the Public Training Hall of New Phlan. Only fully-credentialed, trained educators with extensive field experience need apply. These are full-time positions and may include some administrative and student advisement work. Starting pay is 100gp per week (commensurate with experience). Candidates should present themselves to the clerk of the Council of New Phlan.

An Addendum: All faculty positions for Practitioners of Other Arts have been filled. No further applications for these positions are being accepted. Anyone attempting to put forward such an application shall be ejected from the premises immediately.

An Addendum to the Addendum: All faculty positions for the schools of Magecraft, Languages, and General Education have been filled. No further applications for these positions are being accepted. Anyone attempting to put forward such an application shall be ejected from the premises and set on fire.
…This means you Silren. — signed Taleah Loughgren

An Addendum to the Addendum to the Addendum: Be it known that we have a faculty opening in the School of Magecraft. Only wizards showing particular aptitude and specialization in their field need apply. No applications for Generalists are being accepted at this time. Anyone attempting to put forward such an application shall be ejected from the premises, set on fire, and thrown off the wall.
…This means you Silren. — signed Taleah Loughgren

By Personal Request of Councilman Ulrich Eberhard
Be it known that a ~~substantial award~~ reward of ~~ten-thousand~~ ~~fifteen-thousand~~ ~~twenty-thousand~~ twenty-five-thousand gold pieces shall be offered to any heroes recovering the painting titled “False Chanterelle” by the artist Sheklesh from the grounds of Kadorna Mansion. Those wishing to claim the reward should bring the fully intact painting to Eberhard House during the first or second watch. Ask for Guillaume.

Notice: Heroes and Sellswords needed
for research expedition. Some potentially dangerous work hunting monsters, but pay is excellent. Must be willing to work in the presence of magic. For more information, seek out Velinax the Vermilian and Tarren Traskar at the Laughing Goblin.

General Rumors about Town

The Council refused the Xvimlar’s petition for official recognition again. This can only mean war with the North-siders.
With the new wall complete, housing prices in the old Slums are starting to skyrocket, forcing people out into the district around Kuto’s Well.
Because of food shortages, the Council has put forward a bill to outlaw all festival activities during the Feast of the Moon.
Matteo’s smithy had to close down after the council started dumping criminals off the New Wall right beside his shop.
A group of monstrous insurgents, apparently going by the callsign ‘F-K-A’ have built a fort right outside the New Wall, right under the Red Plumes noses.
Several new businesses have opened inside the New Wall. Not that anyone can afford them with the Council’s tarrifs.
Dozens of adventurers have hunted for the Basilisk believed to be stalking the Old City. Most haven’t returned. Those that did were empty-handed.
The new Pub being built just inside the New Wall is supposedly run by a dwarf, but says it’ll be serving Hillsfarran Dragonbreath Ale. How’d they pull that off?
The Marquis of Kryptgarden has shown up in Council Session again. Guess he wasn’t killed after all.
The Cheeseeater Goblins claim their homes and farms were attacked by a Gnoll raiding party.

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DEC/2018

Proclamations and Rumors: Week 12

13 Marpenoth, Year of the Helm

Proclamations

The following proclamations have been posted outside the Council Hall:

From the City Council of New Phlan to all brave and hearty adventurers:

The following advertisments have been posted outside the Training Hall:

An Addendum: All faculty positions for Practitioners of Other Arts have been filled. No further applications for these positions are being accepted. Anyone attempting to put forward such an application shall be ejected from the premises immediately.

An Addendum to the Addendum: All faculty positions for the schools of Magecraft, Languages, and General Education have been filled. No further applications for these positions are being accepted. Anyone attempting to put forward such an application shall be ejected from the premises and set on fire.
…This means you Silren. — signed Taleah Loughgren

An Addendum to the Addendum to the Addendum: Be it known that we have a faculty opening in the School of Magecraft. Only wizards showing particular aptitude and specialization in their field need apply. No applications for Generalists are being accepted at this time. Anyone attempting to put forward such an application shall be ejected from the premises, set on fire, and thrown off the wall.
…This means you Silren. — signed Taleah Loughgren

By Personal Request of Councilman Ulrich Eberhard
Be it known that a ~~substantial award~~ reward of ~~ten-thousand~~ ~~fifteen-thousand~~ twenty-thousand gold pieces shall be offered to any heroes recovering the painting titled “False Chanterelle” by the artist Sheklesh from the grounds of Kadorna Mansion. Those wishing to claim the reward should bring the fully intact painting to Eberhard House during the first or second watch. Ask for Guillaume.

Wanted:
Chartered adventuring party to acquire rare and valuable magical components. Inquire with Aumry of Umber, Archmage of Old Phlan, at Aumry’s Tower on the New Wall Road.

General Rumors about Town

Food shipments from Kryptgarten have not yet been restored. With Highharvestide past, prices are skyrocketing.
The body of the hero, Taimalg the Invincible was found petrified inside Valhingen Graveyard.
The Red Plumes have closed the Old Library after another patrol was found petrified.
The Slums’ merchants guild, the Free Merchants of Phlan, have officially petitioned the Council to move the Slums Market back inside the New Wall.
An clan of Dwarves have joined the army of Gnolls massing in the great plains. Why hasn’t the council acted?
The Necromancer in the Quivering Forest has killed the Marquis of Kryptgarden.
Lizard Man attacks in the swamps have completely shut down trade with Thentia and Melvaunt.
The Council is considering offering a seat to the High Priest of Xvim.
The High Priest of Xvim is really a WOMAN!
An old tower on the far west side of the city is supposedly haunted. Beggars, kobolds, and goblins squatting near there keep going missing. Those that have been found were either dead and burned to a crisp, or else insane.

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DEC/2018

Proclamations and Rumors: Week 9

22 Eleint, Year of the Helm

Proclamations

The following proclamations have been posted outside the Council Hall:

From the City Council of New Phlan to all brave and hearty adventurers:

Proclamation CIX
Be it known that the Council is offering an inducement to any individual who shall serve in the rescue force for the mercenary band of Taimalg-the-Invincible which has disappeared inside Valhigen Graveyard.

Proclamation CXXXVIII
Be it known that beginning this, the tenth day of Eliasis, The Year of the Helm, 1362, the Council has decreed that all blocks of the Old City, commonly known as the Slums, between the River and the West Phlan Road, as far as Mendor’s Street shall hereafter be considered the rightful territory of New Phlan and subject to the laws and enforcement thereof; and that Mendor’s Street shall hereafter be called the New Wall Road. All those dwelling within said blocks may make petition to the Council Clerk for deeds of property no later than the 18th of Eliasis. Beginning the 19th of Eliasis, all those found in said blocks without the proper writs of citizenship and deeds of property shall be subject to the full measure of the law.

Proclamation CLXXII
Be it known that beginning this, the twenty-eight day of Eliasis, The Year of the Helm, 1362, the the buying and selling of male and female slaves of humanoid disposition shall not be allowed within the bounds of New Phlan. Any person or persons found to be engaged in the buying or selling of a humanoid slave shall be subject to a fine of not less than twenty and not more than 60 gold coins, and all properties, both fiscal and personal, associated with such a transaction shall be remit to the sole use and discretion of the Council of New Phlan in perpetuity.

The following advertisments have been posted outside the Training Hall:

An Addendum: All faculty positions for Practitioners of Other Arts have been filled. No further applications for these positions are being accepted. Anyone attempting to put forward such an application shall be ejected from the premises immediately.

An Addendum to the Addendum: All faculty positions for the schools of Magecraft, Languages, and General Education have been filled. No further applications for these positions are being accepted. Anyone attempting to put forward such an application shall be ejected from the premises and set on fire.
…This means you Silren. — signed Taleah Loughgren

By Personal Request of Councilman Ulrich Eberhard
Be it known that a ~~substantial award~~ reward of ~~ten-thousand~~ fifteen-thousand gold pieces shall be offered to any heroes recovering the painting titled “False Chanterelle” by the artist Sheklesh from the grounds of Kadorna Mansion. Those wishing to claim the reward should bring the fully intact painting to Eberhard House during the first or second watch. Ask for Guillaume.

Wanted:
Chartered adventuring party to acquire rare and valuable magical components. Inquire with Aumry of Umber, Archmage of Old Phlan, at Aumry’s Tower on the New Wall Road.

General Rumors about Town

The xvarts that provide most of the city’s fish have been driven from their caves by some horrible monster.
Aumry of Umber had some sort of fight with the Council and has resigned his position at the Training Hall.
The undead in the Graveyard are under the control of a powerful Necromancer who lives in the Quivering Forest.
The Eraka nomads who live north of Phlan have allied themselves with the Gnoll Army still massing west of town.
A Red Plume patrol was found petrified not far from the Old Library after the Plumes raided the place.
Food shipments from Kryptgarden have all but ceased. The Marquis has not appeared before the Council in over two months.
The nuns dormitory in the Temple of Tyr is secretly a Bordello.
Iniarv’s Tower, that guards the road through the Twilight Marsh, was burned to the ground.
The New Wall looks like it will only have one gate.
With the Wall construction going as it is, most of the vendors in the Slums Market at migrating to Scholar’s Square near the old Library.

View

DEC/2018

Proclamations and Rumors: Week 6

1 Eleint, Year of the Helm

Proclamations

The following proclamations have been posted outside the Council Hall:

From the City Council of New Phlan to all brave and hearty adventurers:

Proclamation LIX
Be it known that the council is interested in reclaiming the remaining blocks of the city of New Phlan. To reclaim said blocks they must be first cleared of monsters, vermin, and other uncivilized inhabitants. To this end the council is offering a reward to any person or group who is responsible for clearing any block of the old city.

Proclamation CXX
Be it known that the council has decreed that the threat of the pirates who plague eastern shipping to New Phlan will be eliminated. The council offers a generous reward for the exact location of the pirates stronghold believed to be in or near the Twilight Marsh. An even greater reward is offered for the elimination of the pirates as a threat to shipping. Apply to the Council Clerk for a commission.

The following advertisments have been posted outside the Training Hall:

An Addendum: All faculty positions for Practitioners of Other Arts have been filled. No further applications for these positions are being accepted. Anyone attempting to put forward such an application shall be ejected from the premises immediately.

An Addendum to the Addendum: All faculty positions for the schools of Magecraft, Languages, and General Education have been filled. No further applications for these positions are being accepted. Anyone attempting to put forward such an application shall be ejected from the premises and set on fire.
…This means you Silren. — signed Taleah Loughgren

By Personal Request of Councilman Ulrich Eberhard
Be it known that a ~~substantial award~~ reward of ten-thousand gold pieces shall be offered to any heroes recovering the painting titled “False Chanterelle” by the artist Sheklesh from the grounds of Kadorna Mansion. Those wishing to claim the reward should bring the fully intact painting to Eberhard House during the first or second watch. Ask for Guillaume.

General Rumors about Town

A dragon was seen flying right over the city. Everyone claims they ‘know someone’ who saw it, but no one has any details.
The Hobgoblins that used to live in the Quivering Forest have all left. Something in there has them proper-spooked.
A new pub is being built in the Slums, right beside the New Wall. Finally civilization!
It’s been more than three months since anyone died near Kuto’s Well. Maybe its finally safe?
A huge army of Gnolls has been seen massing in the plains north-west of the city. No one has ever seen so many in one place before.
All of the slaves confiscated by the Council since their ban on the trade are being put to work in the Cadorna Textile Mill.
A young man has been seen visiting the Council Clerk’s office at odd hours. Has someone pierced the old harpy’s heart?
The Council has been in secret negotiations with the Zhents and the Xvimlar. Maybe the Plumes are finally being sold-out.
All of the slaves being confiscated by the Council are being shipped to Zhentil Keep.
Elissa Bivant is pregnant!

View

DEC/2018

Proclamations and Rumors: Week 3

11 Eleasis, Year of the Helm

Proclamations

The following proclamations have been posted outside the Council Hall:

From the City Council of New Phlan to all brave and hearty adventurers:

Proclamation LXXVl11
Be it known that the council is offering a reward to any person or persons who can provide information as to the disposition of several council agents who have been sent to investigate the unseemly happenings in the vicinity of Valhigen Graveyard.

Proclamation CXXXlV
Be it known that the council has declared those individuals who have taken up residence in the mansion of the former Koval family to be traitors and thieves. Be it further known that a reward has been offered for the elimination of these outlaws. A commission to rid the city of this blight may be obtained from the Council Clerk.

The following advertisments have been posted outside the Training Hall:

Wanted:
Chartered adventuring party to perform reconnaissance. A unique magic item of original design, free tutoring in the magical arts, plus a percentage of any booty found. Inquire with Aumry of Umber, Associate Professor of Arcane Arts, at Denlor’s Tower in the Slums District.

An Addendum: All faculty positions for Practitioners of Other Arts have been filled. No further applications for these positions are being accepted. Anyone attempting to put forward such an application shall be ejected from the premises immediately.

By request of Hasan Abdalbane and the Free Merchants of Phlan,
To the adventurer’s of New Phlan:
Be it known that certain monstrous creatures have been spotted in the vicinity of the Twilight Swamp, attacking caravans on the Phlan Road, slaughtering travelers, and endangering Phlan’s trade with its eastern neighbors.Unless these monsters are defeated, all trade with the east could be halted. The Watchers of Helm request the aid of brave and hearty adventurers to help slay these fell threats. Interested parties should meet with Sir Justin Melenikus of Iniarv’s Tower.
Rewards for slain monsters shall be authorized by Sir Justin, Gold shall be paid by the Free Merchant’s Guild upon presentation of a stamped writ from the Watchers of Helm.

By Personal Request of Councilman Ulrich Eberhard
Be it known that a substantial award shall be offered to any heroes recovering the painting titled “False Chanterelle” by the artist Sheklesh from the grounds of Kadorna Mansion. Those wishing to claim the reward should bring the fully intact painting to Eberhard House during the first or second watch. Ask for Guillaume.

General Rumors about Town

THE PIT, where the bodies of those thrown from the wall usually collect has been emptying unusually fast of late.
More and more petrified victims are being found. At least one every two to three days.
A “Special Envoy to the Council” has arrived from Zhentil Keep, supposedly to negotiate the trade of a powerful artifact discovered in the ruins of the old city in exchange for military assistance.
The new High Priest of Xvim in the Old City is secretly not a priest at all, but rather a powerful demon in disguise.
The Bells that protect Kryptgarden from the spirits of the Quivering Forest have not been sounded in days. The farmers are worried and considering relocating back to the Slums.
An active adult dragon has been seen in Dragonden Pass for the first time since the Great Flight six years ago.
To the west lives a tribe of insect-men who worship normal humans and give valuable gifts to all who find their village.
The slave market by the docks is supposedly closing down soon. Better buy what you need fast.
The Red Plumes have started patrolling outside the wall for the first time in over a year.
A huge war is being fought not twenty leagues north of Phlan and no one has noticed.

View

DEC/2018

Silren the Burnt's Journal, Entry 2

Praise Manos! We're rich! Aka: Troll Frenzy

[Inscribed in Dwarvish Runes, but with the Nogese word structure, in the cramped, anal script of a shopkeep or draftsman.]

YR 1362, Late Summer. The Bitter Blade, New Phlan : Day after last

We’re rich. Praise the Necromancer King Manos, we’re bloody well rich!

The day started innocently enough, with the group whining about this that and the other thing. Embry was feeling ill, and kept to the room. This was fine by me for I felt my possessions were more secured with an ex-bonded party dwarf than alone. ((Work in Progress))

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DEC/2018

The West Gate Tail

Worst. Job. Ever.

Rough Pack

Sigh. No one ever said the life of a Night Mask is easy… but this is ridiculous. I should have known that following a Holy Woman of Beshaba, Mistress of Misfortune wasn’t going to be easy. I must have pissed off the Faceless though, because I have literally been through Hell and back. I will be heading back soon to report her death however, as I just saw Beryl stabbed through the heart by a Red Plume in Hillsfar, bleeding out in the street in the arms of her insane dwarven lover, Zyg the Cursed – a kin slayer who seems to lead the merry band of fucktwits that call themselves the Rough Pack.

I stowed away on the Valkur’s Wake leaving West Gate while following the priestess. Beryl was different than most practitioners of the Unfortunate One. She actually managed some converts in Westgate. One who happened to be a fellow Mask. He plunged to his death a day later during an assassination attempt we’d been planning for months. That was when I was called in… Apparently she had made it on the Faceless’ naughty list. And I was to ensure she didn’t come back to town any time soon and to harry her progress within her church. Well that was the plan however… it was unfortunate what happened next.

Beryl had started orating the fear of Beshaba on deck to any who would listen and had gathered a few eager listeners, mostly farmer refugee settler types from Hillsfar and abroad looking for a new life in Phlan. If you’re reading this missive and have never been, Phlan is a broken shithole that supposedly has promise as a settlement. It’s located at the mouth of the tainted Stojanow River. I guess you can trade freely there and it’s far enough away from Zhentil Keep to not be entirely corrupted by Zhents, but not really if you consider they probably own half the city anyway. I activated my cloak and assumed the form of a shipping crate and listened in a bit while enjoying the lull in action.

We ended up at the quarantined leper isle near town and some of the more heroic types decided to attack some odd gas bag blood suckers that were attacking plague victims. Stupid, if your ask me. After gaining the monsters’ attention they floated by and engaged in melee on the boat itself. That’s where I first really noticed Zyg. A terrible, bloodthirsty dwarf. He managed to kill one, but only after getting impaled himself… And our Beryl for whatever reason decided to heal him. This was the beginning of an unholy alliance. I mean, I’ve done some sick shit, but this dwur takes the cake.

There were a few others on the boat that formed a connection: Shilesque – a rather cute half elf rogue, Snowbell – a catwoman that hid behind me the entirety of the battle on the boat, Merra the Gnoll Shaman, Sasha – a half elf bard (rather quiet for one of his type), Slade – a mage that seemed to always think of poison… pretty sure he’s from Mulmaster. Wretched place. And Caerwyn – a badly disguised drow.

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NOV/2018

It's like 2nd Edition with ascending ACs and Attack bonuses. What's not to love?

5 Nightal, Year of the Helm

24 Uktar, Year of the Helm

The following proclamations have been posted outside the Council Hall:

The following advertisments have been posted outside the Training Hall:

General Rumors about Town

3 Uktar, Year of the Helm

The following proclamations have been posted outside the Council Hall:

The following advertisments have been posted outside the Training Hall:

General Rumors about Town

13 Marpenoth, Year of the Helm

The following proclamations have been posted outside the Council Hall:

The following advertisments have been posted outside the Training Hall:

General Rumors about Town

22 Eleint, Year of the Helm

The following proclamations have been posted outside the Council Hall:

The following advertisments have been posted outside the Training Hall:

General Rumors about Town

1 Eleint, Year of the Helm

The following proclamations have been posted outside the Council Hall:

The following advertisments have been posted outside the Training Hall:

General Rumors about Town

11 Eleasis, Year of the Helm

The following proclamations have been posted outside the Council Hall:

The following advertisments have been posted outside the Training Hall:

General Rumors about Town

Praise Manos! We're rich! Aka: Troll Frenzy

Worst. Job. Ever.