Kingdom of Kohlingen

[Elorathall]

After participating in the cleansing ritual, and the delivery of Lord Gregory's remains to the temple, Aernoud was escorted to the inn by a paladin of Tyr. There he remains, under guard. Not long after, a message is sent to Greengarden - and a public notice is made.

"Berndurd Galfast is hereby appointed Acting Steward of the Duchy of Kohlingen, to tend to day-to-day affairs. Brant Redwald is hereby appointed Acting Captain of the Militia, to ensure the safety of the Duchy's people.
- Duke Aernoud of Kohlingen

[Jes]

In the evening, a notice is placed in Fort Cystana and delivered to the militia at the gates in Greengarden. Further, militia and citizens in Greengarden may catch sight of Silver Dragons patrolling the Trade Way and beyond the outskirts to the west of Greengarden lands. They notably make no effort to enter the Duchy itself. They just patrol the areas surrounding it and further enhance the security of the surrounding areas.

Royal Announcement

People of Kohlingen

It is my solemn duty to announce that Lord Gregory Simmons has been called by the Lady of Strategy to return to her side in her divine realm. We undertook the Cleansing of the Construction Site today. It was a grand, joint venture between us and many of our allies, led by the Great Druid Malandria and the wizard Corrick Vostryl. A plethora of casters of different callings worked together to support the ritual, and the contaminated magics were successfully purged. As the ritual neared its end, Gregory turned to me and told me that the Red Knight needed him to finish his mission. He sacrificed his light, his soul, so that the ritual would hold strong over the land in perpetuity, to ensure that the wicked magics uttered by the Wanderer could not fester unseen.

It was his final gift to us, his people - all of us his beloved family, that we may return to peace and safety.

The High Priests of the Triad shall maintain his body, and he will lie in state at the temple. The temple is yet unfinished, so there will be a space for him there before it where the people may view him and pay their respects over the coming days.



The royal family wishes to personally offer our utmost thanks to the following people for their assistance with the Cleansing.

• Great Druid Malandria
  Corrick Vostryl
  Lord Lazarus Parmunster
  Duke Aernoud Van Brabant
  Archdruid Neley
  Ania Viranirn
  Galandizax
  Captain Zac 'Blue Lute' Rudiger
  Sir Maximilian Du Lac
  Kurchin
  Devlin Faramond
  Deanic Hadel
  Rosary Doodlekins
  Wilfire Strongfeet
  Fendall Spellworthy
  Blink Ironbuckle
  Ly'nes Dwin'iplith
  Sana
  Dorje Siachen
  Ilianna
  Almare

May the gods of Kohlingen bless you for your part in helping to maintain the safety of our people.



And may they bless all the people of Kohlingen as we come together to celebrate the life of our former King and mourn the loss of his light among us.

With love,

Zellani Simmons
Regent

[Elorathall]

After a respectful period of quiet after the sacrifice of Lord Gregory, messengers are dispatched to Greengarden and a proclamation is posted and read in the realm's public spaces.

A proclamation from the Duke of Kohlingen

Let all people of the Kingdom know:

One.

I have been accused of Treason, Usurpation and Blasphemy by Lady Zellani Simmons. In the absence of a crowned king to turn to for justice, I have turned to Tyr. Lord Randolph has agreed to conduct the trial, and I shall submit to the judgement of the Even-Handed. By his request, I have surrendered into the custody of the Temple of the Triad.

Two.

Lady Zellani stated I intended to summon the then-members of the council to account for their crimes against the Duchy and the King’s authority. This is true. I presented her with a draft summons, two days before the recent meeting in the Cystana city hall.

It is also true that she urged me to wait, so that she could speak to them first. I granted a delay of three days for her to convince those involved to openly recognize their transgression, and submit to justice of their own initiative. At no time did I recognize or charge her as Regent in this matter - I merely yielded to a request for trust from one I thought worthy of it.

The delay of three days has passed. Rather than a public statement from the councillors in question, Lady Zellani claimed they had withdrawn their illegal proclamation. Incidentally, it was during the same meeting she revealed she had been invited by the council to take the throne.

But a statement from the council’s newest member does not undo their actions. Should those whose decisions affect many lives beyond their own not be held to the highest standard? Are those who make and enforce our community’s rules and agreements not most expected to act by them?

And so, let all loyal and true people of the Kingdom know:

In the name of His Majesty Gregory Simmons, I declare the following individuals charged with Crimes Against the Realm, undertaken within and against the Duchy of Kohlingen and the King's authority.

Lord Walter Mortimer: Treason, for willfully betraying his charge as Lord Protector by supporting acts to usurp the king’s authority, and Usurpation, for claiming the authority to overrule the king’s decrees.

Lord Laterius Parmunster: Usurpation, for claiming the authority to overrule the king’s decrees.

Lady Johanna Evington: Usurpation, for claiming the authority to overrule the king’s decrees.

Lord Winston Cunningham: Usurpation, for claiming the authority to overrule the king’s decrees.

Thoven Shieldheart: Usurpation, for claiming the authority to overrule the king’s decrees.

They are called to surrender to the custody of the Duke of Kohlingen or the Church of Tyr within three days, to answer these charges and be judged.

May Tyr's justice account in all balance. The king's law stands.

Three.

I seek no escalation of the current hostilities, and seek no harm against any of the kingdom’s true and faithful people. I have surrendered myself to the judgement of Tyr, and pray those above to do the same. I pray there shall now be peace, during which time current matters can be resolved through law, with dignity.

That said, by the decree of His Majesty Gregory Simmons, I remain charged with the defence of the Duchy and its people. None shall be permitted to abuse this time of trial to seize the land or harm the people in my charge.

And so, let all loyal and true people of the Kingdom know that:

From this day, and until Tyr’s judgement has been declared upon the charges against myself, and the charges against the then-members of the Council:

No member of the Silver Dragons, Mageguard, Everguard, Platinum Knights or the Council, nor their servants, shall be permitted entry to the Duchy without my explicit permission.

In the event of acute and mortal danger to the people of the Duchy, Acting Captain Brant Redwald holds the authority to grant entry to the Duchy to those who seek to assist in the removal of the threat. Those granted access must depart when the threat has been removed.

Those who respect this decree and its spirit shall be heard at earliest opportunity. Those who do not shall be considered undertaking acts of Rebellion, Sabotage and Espionage, and be dealt with accordingly.

In service,

Aernoud van Brabant,
Duke of Kohlingen

[Frozen-ass]

The ambassador of winya sends a formal request to zellani or acting stand in, for a meeting with the duke, aswell as petitions the duke formaly for a meeting. (and informing both he requested permission)

[Jes]

Zellani forwards this to Randolph of Tyr and sends a reply to the Ambassador that she has done so, explaining that the Duke is in the High Priest's custody, so it would be most appropriate to ask him.

[Hrafingar]

A old wizard is seen delivering all sorts of puzzles for ages two and up to the manor of House Simmons, including a small notebook with all the solutions.

[Elorathall]

Provided this is allowed by the temple, a reply is soon sent to the Ambassador confirming the request, and directing him to Duke's current lodging at the Silver Flagon Inn.

[Dovesong]

Once some of the kerfluffle has died down, a stocky and well-armed contingent arrives in Greengarden. Dwarves, and wearing the insignia of Clan Thunderhammer, make their way to the Van Brabant residence. To a man (or woman? Who knows) their expressions are dour, stormy even.

It would appear that they aren't much for talking, and keep to themselves, even in gruff grumbles, and an axe serves as an impromptu doorknocker. Once opened, come the only audible words thus far.

"Aye, Ilythalu. Ye called?"

[Frozen-ass]

The ambassador of winya can be seen entering the flagon to meet with the duke formally (with approval). After a relative short meeting he leaves again.

[Dovesong]

The Dwarven contingent, wary glances all about as they wait, sends one of their number inside. The newly-minted Court Mage can be seen entering the house, and a few moments later, the rest of the contingent departs. A meeting, perhaps, betwixt arcane-ish kin? Or the after-effects of the renewed efforts of Queen Thunderhammer to bring life back to the Citadel? Hard to say for the onlooker.

However, hours pass....

[Jes]

Ilythalu leaves the manor briefly to give a couple letters to the militia by the outer door, asking them to see that they are delivered. She then goes back inside and neither she nor the dwarf who had been left there come out again. The home is still, dark, and silent. Even the nanny isn't seen again for the time being.

It's clear quickly enough that Ilythalu and the children, along with the nanny, had left with the dwarven Court Mage at some point through some magical means.

[Bag of Felt]

After the ritual in the Construction Site, along with the sacrificial pouring of life force into the land by abdicated King Gregory Simmons, it is clear that the land was greatly tainted, as the poisons that infested it, both the material and divine, continue to evaporate from it. Workers refuse to work in the area until it is completely clear.

It is evident that the magical healing of the land was also very powerful. The effect spreads outward from the area, causing new plant growth and vibrancy in color added to the landscapes adjoining.

Meanwhile, Fort Cystana prepares for the trials to take place. A court room hadn't been built yet, and now workers scramble to set up something that will work. The foreman is seen rubbing his temples as he thinks of the timeline to prepare.

"I wish they would give more notice for things like this," he mutters.

[Bag of Felt]

The Scion of Siomorphe Ruth Winter is seen at the door of the room where the Duke of Kohlingen is awaiting his trial. She enters it apprehensively, and leaves it sadly. She then goes to the City Hall, and uses the services of a notary scribe. She then packs her bags and takes ship back to Waterdeep.

"Lady, help them to rule wisely and well," she prays as she looks back at the disappearing Fort.

[Bag of Felt]

Meanwhile, the foreman proudly examines the courtroom. It isn't finished yet, but the statuary that had been in storage was set in place, the floor was down, the gallery up, and temporary seats, desks, and partitions were up.

"That should do until we can finish," he nods to himself as he gives the podium one last swipe of a dust rag.

[Jes]

The Trial of Duke Aernoud Van Brabant lasted for two days, the new courtroom (still under construction, but determined to be safe) packing with spectators as well as guards to ensure the safety of those in attendance. At the end of the second day, Randolph of Tyr and Lady Rosette Brionne of Siamorphe took part in the final judgment and sentencing...

Shortly after, public notices are placed in Fort Cystana and Greengarden. Similar messages addressed to the recipients are sent to the leaders of Barak Runedar, Cetha, The Dale, Oakmist Vale, Moonpier, Winya Ravana, the Eilistraeen Shrine, the Salandran Temple, and Blue Lagoon.

People of Kohlingen

Let it be known that the judgment of the Even-Handed has been passed down. At the close of the Trial of Aernoud Van Brabant, Randolph of Tyr found Aernoud guilty of Treason, Usurpation, and Blasphemy. He has been stripped of his title of Duke and exiled from the lands of the Kingdom of Kohlingen. Aernoud's exile is not intended to be permanent, for Randolph declared that Aernoud can appeal the exile after he has sought penance through continued service to Chauntea.

I believe that Aernoud is a good man who believed he was doing what was right, but he fell victim to paranoia and the manipulations of shadows that would tear our kingdom apart. I truly wish Aernoud and his family the best in all that they do from here on, and I genuinely hope that we see him again in the kingdom once he has met the terms of his eligibility for appeal.

May we move forward from this together, arm-in-arm against the shadows that sought to tear us down. And may we show mercy and forgiveness under the grace of our gods, and assist Aernoud in his recovery wherever we may be able.


Regent Zellani Simmons

[Bag of Felt]

The people of Greengarden are shocked to receive this word. Their duke had left to help with the cleansing of the construction site and didn't return, but they got word of his arrest. Most were relieved to see the patrols of Silver Dragons outside the patrols of the militia although there were whispers that Greengarden might be a prison, or the Silvers might attack at any moment. They acknowledged the stewards the duke had put into place until his return. Word that he wouldn't return at all angered some and frightened others. A few nodded their heads as if this was an outcome they expected. Others thought it could have been worse - there could have been an execution. Nearly all were sadden - the duke had been well liked by his people, and his tavern well attended even in its temporary state. They would drink and say, "The man surely brews good stuff. I will miss this, unless a way is found to import it from wherever he is."

[Bag of Felt]

And some are wondering....whatever happened to Mortimer?

Uktar 4, Walter stormed out of the counsel meeting, completely insulted by the idea that a treasonous bastard like Aernoud would accuse him of treason. He stomped off, not really looking where he was going, but found himself at his lodging, with a couple of retainers looking at him a little oddly. He immediately felt embarrassed, and regretted his rush out, but was not inclined to return immediately. So what to do?

He looked at his retainers, noting them to be of ranger training, stealthy and circumspect, yet thoroughly trust-worthy and willing to put their lives on the line. Just what he wanted and needed at the moment. He quickly gave orders for them to get the three of them bivouac gear, they were going to be roughing it for a few days. After complying, Walter and his men left without letting anyone know where they were going.

They traveled south through the construction site, battling the malformed there, and continued south to deal with bandits. Walter felt it good to be on the road again, being a man of action instead of one at a desk. He vented his frustrations on the malforms, and when the bandits saw his fury and expertise, they withdrew. Unmolested, they headed to the road through Amia forest leading eastward. There they encountered nothing but the wild life, and Walter felt himself relaxing into the habits of a soldier on the march again. After a while, they made their way northward again, on the other side of the isle. His ranger retainers helped him remain fairly stealthy and unseen as they passed the area of Kampos, and finally made their way to the Salandran Temple. There, they were refreshed, and Walter took some counsel with the healers there. The healers, seeing an honorable man of action having been put in a position that had stymied his talents, suggested that he go on to the lodge nearby.

There was only the bare minimum of retainers at the lodge in Whitestag - Duke Cunningham was in Fort Cystana, doing his duty as a Council member. Walter guiltily made himself at home, then sent his retainers to see what was going on in Greengarden. He paced incessantly until they returned later. What they had to report filled him with concern.

The settlement was filled with rumors:

• The duke intended to march on Cystana.
• Lady Zellani was outed as a Harper.
• The Harpers are mounting a coup to install Lady Zellani as queen.
• There was a near riot at the idea of a dragon-person as a queen.

Walter sent his men back to keep an eye on the place, to trade out who would send back reports. The idea of Aernoud marching on Cystana seemed ludicrous, but he had been actin paranoid and unpredictable for quite a while. He wanted to be able to send word to the Fort the moment anything looked like a muster.

Once his people got into place, one came back almost immediately with the report that the town gates were closed, so they would no longer be able to walk freely in to directly interact with the people there. Security appeared to have heightened and more patrols were seen, but there didn't seem to be an mustering at this time. Soon word came back to Walter that a squad of Everguard and Silver Dragons had approached the gates and read out a letter that said they were there to help with the problems of the area. He was as shocked as his men to hear that crossbows had been aimed at this squad. It was concerning to learn that what appeared to be the entire contingent of Silver Dragons and Mage Guard including Eddington and Tanner left Greengarden, along with 22 citizens. Walter then feared not only for Cystana and a possible march in that direction, but for the people of Greengarden, as much of their protection was removed.

Soon after this, it was reported that an arrest warrant had been made for Aernoud. Walter clenched his fists in frustration as he realized he didn't have sufficient numbers to arrest the man himself. He was gratified to know that there still didn't appear to be a muster taking place.

Then the reports of murders in the town. This was confusing - how and why would there be murders there? What was at work? Soon after a contingent arrived that included covered wagons and a formidable force of people he consider reliable, along with Zellani. He knew that whatever was in hand, she would be able to deal with it, especially backed up by the people with her. He was surprised when Aernoud was not taken into custody, for surely that must be what the visit was about. Then he corrected himself - she would have brought a contingent of Silvers if that had been her intent. It appeared she was taking steps to not escalate the situation. He felt pride in her foresight at that. The contingent left, and it seemed there still was no muster.

The report of a pink hin and a kobold leaving with 2 Greengarden militia in the direction of Cystana was curious, but didn't feel threatening. And the small contingent of guards that road out with Aernoud wasn't enough to mount an attack. He counted up the days and realized this was about the time that the ritual cleansing of the construction site would be done. He wondered at Aernoud going - it was a brave thing to do, knowing there was a warrant out for his arrest.

Soon thereafter, the retainers brought back news of Aernoud's arrest and Aernoud's proclamation that no Silvers were to be sent to Greengarden, no person he didn't approve of was to be allowed in. The satisfaction of the arrest, the rage at the assumption of the proclamation and the fear for the people of Greengarden were tempered by word of the passing of Gregory.

Soon it was noted that there were Silvers patrolling outside the bounds of Greengarden. Because the people of Greengarden would be protected, and because the leader of the possible muster was now arrested, and because of word that Gregory had died, Walter decided it was time to return home, and report to the Council his actions - and apologize to Zellani for having been absent during a time he would have been useful to have a round. He would submit to the judgement of the Council, and perform what penance was required of him.

[Jes]

Zelly traveled to Greengarden today with a small group of adventurers who came along, as well as Lady Eddington. She stayed for some time, speaking to the locals about recent events and about the future. When she left, she seemed in good spirits.

[Jes]

Formal invitations are sent out to allies of the Kingdom of Kohlingen, indicating that the Coronation of Zellani Simmons will take place on Alturiak 12, 1391 DR in the Hall of the Even-Handed in Fort Cystana.

// I meant to do a proper invitation post earlier, but I've been dead sick. Caught Covid right before the holidays started and I'm only just coming out of it, naturally. xD

If your character is allowed into Fort Cystana, they are welcome to attend! It'll be Sunday, February 12th at 1pm EST/6pm GMT!

[Bag of Felt]

// So, I am in a hotel that apparently lets me get online, but I can't see anything but a black screen. So, this event is postponed until the stars align again.

[Jes]

// The new date for the coronation will be February 12th at 1pm EST/6pm GMT! (Updated the invitation post.)

[Jes]

More invitations are sent to the allies of Kohlingen and placed up in public locations throughout the Kingdom of Kohlingen.

// In case anyone struggles with the image: "Come to the Kingdom of Kohlingen's PLATINUM GALA. Located in Fort Cystana North at the new Keep. Exchange Gifts! Dance at the Ball! Indulge in the Feast! Show your Mettle in the Royal Tournament! Hammer 29, 1391 DR."

This will take place on Sunday, January 29th at 4pm EST/9pm GMT. If your character is allowed in Fort Cystana, they are welcome to come!

[Jes]

Notices are placed within the Kingdom of Kohlingen and sent out to all allies/invitees.


-----------


Schedule for the Platinum Gala

Start/Arrival: Gift Exchange participants deliver gifts to the Regent in Fort Cystana North.

First Event: We will kick off the the Gala with the Royal Tournament outside of Argent Keep!

Second Event: Next we will enter the newly-finished parts of Argent Keep in all our splendid clothes and head to the northern wing to attend the Ball!

Third Event: Our final event will take us to the southern wing of Argent Keep for the banquet!

More details below!

Gift Exchange

The Platinum Gala Gift Exchange

If you wish to participate in the gift exchange, give your gift to Regent Zellani Simmons at the start of the Gala. She will be in Fort Cystana North, outside of the brand new Argent Keep. If you're late, that's okay! You can just give your gift to Zellani whenever you arrive in order to be added to the exchange list. The exchange will be finalized during the final event: the banquet. If you're unable to stay till the end, but you provided a gift at the start, that's okay! A gift will be set aside for you to pick up at another time.

Tournament

The Platinum Gala Royal Tournament

Rules:

• This is a Martial tournament, so ranged weapons will not be permitted. Magical summons are also not permitted. No magical spells may be used offensively. You may cast spells on yourself ONLY after the start of the match when your opponent is able to attempt to interrupt your casting.
• Magical items, including ioun stones, potions, and any other source of magic that does not come from your own preparation are not permitted. Only spells or abilities which specifically only target yourself will be permitted. For example, you will not be permitted to cast Darkness or Battletide, but you can cast Invisibility on yourself if you know the spell and can physically cast it.
• The Overseer of the tournament shall provide weapons and armor to all participants, who will be able to use the provided changing tent to equip the tournament gear. Other physically equipped gear (such as your own rings, cloaks, etc.) can be used. If these pieces of equipment have spellcasting capabilities, you are not permitted to use them.
• Provided equipment and weapons MUST be used, to ensure a fair benchmark for all participants. As such, polymorphing, shifting, and shapechanging are not allowed.
• Any other natural abilities are permitted. Bear in mind if you use these abilities or spells that none may offensively affect the target. They may only target and affect yourself.
• Failure to adhere to these rules will result in immediate forfeiture of the match.

The tournament follows a standard bracket elimination. If there are not enough participants for bracket elimination, then the Overseer shall decide the opponent setup.


Prizes:

1st Place: Gold Trophy & 1,000,000 gold coins
2nd Place: Silver Trophy & 500,000 gold coins
3rd Place: Bronze Trophy & 100,000 gold coins

Ball

The Platinum Gala Ball

We will have a few changing rooms and tents set aside for you to change, if you need. The ball will include music, dancing, drinks from the Bistro La Suzail, and a casual competition with cash prizes! If you wish to be noticed for your most wonderful dancing skills, then dance to your heart's content! Our secret judges will be watching!


Prizes:

1st Place: 500,000 gold coins
2nd Place: 250,000 gold coins
3rd Place: 50,000 gold coins

Banquet

The Platinum Gala Banquet

The final event is the grand banquet! Food and drink will be catered by the Bistro La Suzail, and we shall have a social gathering whilst we celebrate Midwinter. During the banquet, the Regent shall go about and deliver the results of the Gift Exchange. Reminder: If you are unable to stay until the end but offered a gift for the exchange, that's okay! A gift will be set aside for you to be delivered at a more convenient time.

[Jes]

Announcements are put up in Kohlingen, the Wave & Serpent, Kampo's, Winya Ravana, Barak Runedar, and The Dale, inviting merchants from all over to attend an event!



Kingdom of Kohlingen Trades Festival


You are invited to attend the Trades Festival to take place on the main road in Fort Cystana on 25 Ches, 1391 DR!

All merchants who are not barred entry to Fort Cystana by local laws are welcome to set up shop and show off your best wares, goods, products, or whatever else you want. Any items displayed which were crafted by yourself or by an employee in your business will automatically be entered into the Trades Exhibit Competition. Three winners shall be chosen from the Trades Exhibit and will win prizes!

Come partake in the fun (and probably chaos) of the Trades Festival. There will assuredly be plenty to see and do, as all legal and admissible businesses (and individual merchants) are welcome to set up shop. Food, drinks, baubles, weapons, and everything else in between!



// This will be on Saturday, March 25th at 7pm GMT/3pm EDT! You can make anything you want to be entered into the competition. It can be literally anything, as long as your character made it themself! Go wild with Job System customization or request something special beforehand. It's up to you!

[Frozen-ass]

A Large Ship is Anchored of the coast of Cystana's docks. Clearly Man-o-War sized and well armed. Occasionally a sloop or dingy sets off back and forth between the ship and the docks.

Fancy dressed people with well groomed hair and manners mostly to be the people from the ship.

The Guards are keeping a eye on it but so far not much ells is publicly known.



Mean while.. in the city itself there seems to be a increase in reports of pickpockets and other minor crimes. (This seems unrelated to the ship as that only just arrived, a nd those coming and going from it are closely watched)

[Frozen-ass]

*after a meeting at the court, the massive ship moves closer to the bay, not blocking traffic, but trying to get as close to shore, the deep laying vessel can to get. what follows is impressive, many small sloops desent on and of to the boat, unloading easy a few dozen if not many more people, all fancy dressed, some heavy armed. All desending onto the flagon, renting out half the tavern.

one odd sight is a single person of the group, is striped of a fancy jacket, and with lowerd head departs away from the city*

[Albacksen]

Unease settles over the Kingdom. Whispers benign and malicious both speak of the young Prince's waning health.

It is questioned how long had it been since he had been seen publically. Some speculation suggests the Prince is cursed because the wound that ultimately claimed his father.

Fewer voices, belonging to the more careless and uncharitable of the populace wonder if the Queen is not keeping the boy ill herself. Perhaps ultimately trying to secure her place on the throne.

Regardless of what the true reasons are... The concerns over the growing likelihood of a succession crisis are all too real.

[Frozen-ass]

*The (mostly lowlife) locals are clearly in times of uncertainty, they always loved the queen, even if they had less love for the nobility exited.

People panic and talk over drinks, the back allies are a whisper whirlwind, and people seek guidance. It seems where the middle and upper class finds it in the leadership, the lower class finds it elsewhere.

After a few days it seems a new wind blows trough the back ally's, and a surge of work is done like never before. Ships are loaded/unloaded faster, construction is sped up, it even seems some beggars are now better dressed. Though this might be a a trick of the mind of course, cause who knows for sure what happens in the alleyways.

Talk of goodhod is not for them, but whispers of the monargy is over, do float about. Something is brewing with the back allies, but is this new surge good or bad? in support or not? It sure makes some middle class and nobles scratch there head to see the surge*



*Meeeeeaaaaaanwhile, in the flagon, half is still rented out by the Welters, they are also in all states, sending letters, whole hoards of doctors of variuos expertise's to the keep, to aid in any way possible, they offer their manpower, their connections and whatever is needed to the keep. Mostly ignoring whats happening on the streets.

The welter heads personally attend as often as they can, and always have a runner nearby if they arnt so they can be summoned*

[Frozen-ass]

For the most part, it was just a uneventful but dark night. However some people seem to suffer from some mental trauma and speak of the city being attacked by all kinds of wild lower plains things. It is thus far unclear what causes these rumors, but it seems most of the locals simply have no idea what they (those who talk of the attack) are talking about.

As morning comes, the city springs to life as it has been in the past week.

There is one exception, a number of guards and locals seem to report sick, all with the same symptoms: Murdering headaches, loss of energy, feeling depressed and minor hair loss. Upon closer examination, they all seem to be very dehydrated, though its clearly not the cause of the symptoms, but rather a symptom aswell, as drinking barely resolves it.

// all players involved in last nights mist event, suffer to a minor degree of the same symptoms, those that "died" suffer from the full effect (at your own discretion how your character deals and feels (with) it)
Also, all players involved will randomly see for a spilt second things from last night where normal things are. (feel free to take it as you wish for you char, but note it happens not all the time, and only a split moment) examples:
- Seeing the beings head and glowing eyes on faces of normal people around you
- Mist approaching on the horizon while the sun is bright and warm
- People dead around you that are actually fine
- Suddenly being alone while being surrounded by friends

[Frozen-ass]

In cystana nightmares and the like persist, people reporting seeing all kinds of thing, mass hysteria or actual real? No one knows for sure but mages report all kind of falls readings in magical detections.

Meanwhile suddenly, a large part of the clergy in the city seems to operate the churches amd shrines on a skeleton crew only, non urgent appointments and such are posponed for the time being. Most of the clerics in question are seem to be holding meetings, and above ells rest and prepare for something soon.

The city officials seem to start stockpiling massive amounts of Herbs, oils, and incense, and soon shortages are reported of these resulting in outside they city imports being sought in due haste.

Whatever it is, something massive is being prepared.. and bound to happen soon.

[Elorathall]

Meanwhile, an exile stalks the borders of the kingdom. Pacing. Waiting. Observing. Planning?

[Legion]

The borders of the kingdom are shored up by increased Silver Dragon patrols, Kohlingen Ranger Patrols and join patrols of the Allies of Kohlingen, Winya, and the Grove.

[Jes]

Following a harrowing ordeal the night before, during which that mysterious mist and fog had rolled in again, a message is circulated through the court and to all associated personnel and allies that a meeting hosted by the queen will be taking place tomorrow in Whitestag at the Cunningham Estate.

// This is tomorrow, Sunday the 27th, at 7pm GMT/3pm EDT.

[Jes]

The meeting held in Whitestag had a rather large turnout, with nobles and officials traveling all the way there to bear witness. Presumably most of the meeting was spent creating a plan to address current issues. Following that, it is said that Deanic Hadel was named a knight of Kohlingen by the Lord Commander. And then the final bit of business was for the Queen to abdicate and pass the Regency to Lord Walter Mortimer, to both of which the Parliament - most of whom were present - agreed. Presumably notices and announcements would soon be forthcoming.

Afterward, Zellani, looking exhausted and worn after just a brief sojourn, was seen heading south alongside the Lord Commander, the new knight, and a few other friends.

[Frozen-ass]

Announcement of the regent

Citizens and allies of the realm,

With a heavy heart and mind, I address you all to share the following.

As per 27th Eleasis, 1391 DR Our beloved Friend and Queen Zellani Simmons has abdicated her position as queen under the articles of feeling unfit to rule. Wile we are sadden by the decision we understand the reasons and respect her wishes, I ask our people to pray for the royal family's well being in these difficult times.

With the Gods blessing and courts approval, I have taken the seat as Regent till either The crown prince comes of age, or a better candidate is found.

We also like to address the issue of the entity that has chosen our city as its grounds. A multi sided plan, with heavy support of the whole island is put in place, and will be put in play soon. In this regard I ask all citizens and allies to be mindful of our forces enacting these plans, as well as to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary. We also like to request all abled bodies to report for support roles, especially if you are skilled in healing or arcane/divine inclined.

There have been rumors about our clergy, and I like to put them to rest. The clergy is currently preparing for a massive ritual, and unless dire need wont be able to provide any services till it is over. We welcome any donations of Herbs, incense and sacred oils for this as well. There also has been put out a call of Bone wands, please donate these directly to the shrine of Elistraeen.

I like to end this announcement with news of happier nature.
As per 27th Eleasis, 1391 DR Sir Deanic Hadel was released as herald, and knighted. All hail Sir Hadel.
As per 27th Eleasis, 1391 DR Magister Izmiranda Auvre'athem as been appointed as court Magister, and will advice and lead our arcane endeavors.

Also we like to express our gratitude to allies and neighbors for their support in these dark times. All of the following have provides support in one way or another, showing as a island together we can overcome all.

• Shrine of Elistraeen
• The Dale
• Winya Ravana
• The Oakmist Vale
• Greengarden
• Moonpier
• Southport (Swords of the South)
• Traveller's Rest

~ Regent Walter Mortimer
Kingdom of Kohlingen

* The announcement brings a lot of worrie to the people, but in general the mass seems to deeply respect Zelly's decision and offer support. The Silverdragon recruitment office has to assign extra help to handle the influx. Retired knights, silvers, clerics and mages line up to be placed on active duty. The temples are getting crates of resources from all over Amia.

For once, in a long time, the whole kingdom seems to be of a single mind "we can do this".*

[Amarice-Elaraliel]

*as promised, the commander has worked out a new rotation system for the guards, silver as well as everguard to expand security over the next weeks. Additionally she worked out a plan to assign an everguard to each of the clergy for their casting as protection, - and should the number of clerics outmatch the number of Everguard then a seasoned Silverdragon guard - as well as serval mage guards to assist with magically dispersing any fog that may arise/slip through during the rather long casting time.*

[HomingDevice]

*The newly appointed Magister begins plans on casting Antipathy spells against demons to encompass the entire city. This should preferably be completed before the clergy starts their rituals, as it may provide additional defense against the entity that is assaulting the city. She requests the mage guard's assistance in gathering the necessary materials as well as casting the spell itself in various key points across the city, so that no area is left unprotected.*

[Frozen-ass]

*After a long LONG week, it seems the city of Cystana is slowly resuming normal paterns, The rituals are done with the last being in the streets of central themselfs finishing this morning. All clerics look like they just stepped out of a grave, or soon fall into one. Clerical services are still at emergency need only, and there are some reports on deaths even of them.

On the upside any entering the city would feel a peace and calmt of mind, provided one is not on evil nature, or worse, undead. As the city is now fully hallowed and is save a few designated spots, anchored.

However, there was another night of reported heavy mist, and quickly a large panic spready trough the city about demons taking your children by leaving toys on the street, and that the streets themselves have demon-lycans buried in them, ready to jump up at any time!

It took a lot of the city guards and commander to calm down the city to at least a functional state, the rumors and fears still continue*