News and Rumors

Submissions for News and Rumors can be sent directly to Branwyn.Emerald in world via notecard, or preferably posted to the #wiki-news-and-rumors channel in Discord. All italic posts are considered to be ICly available news or rumor.

Event Calender

Saturday, March 27th Weapons Free wrestling/martial arts tournament (Sean#2153)

March 2021

Priwick, Shewan 1121 (3/22-26/21)

Rumors likely spread throughout Suttenborg and adjoining districts within Arcovia of Valgard's disapproval of any horses being harmed considering their cultural significance to the Alfarians and Riddari knights in particular. Tytos of Valgard even goes so far as to order the serfs and slaves of the hall to spread official word that the actions are not condoned - the honorable battles ongoing within the Argon Hills something that should not be tarnished by a dishonorable display of horse corpses littering the streets and juvenile exchange of notes.

A small group of hooded men are seen carting something through Suttenborg in the early morning. Upon the cart was a bloodied sheet covering something bulky. The group stop just at the bottoms of the steps that lead to the various northern embassies and heave the bloodied and wrapped mass up them and unceremoniously drop it to the ground and uncover it. It was a horse's ass. One of the group kneels down began to write out a message in the splatter of blood that leaked from the carcass. It read "HER THIGHS CAN'T SAVE YOU". As the man stood up, the other tossed a small pile of those rumor-filled fliers that had been posted around the citadel around the scene and then they all depart, heading towards the crossroads.

Rumor spreads quickly across the city that the offending notices have finally provoked a response of some sort, though from where exactly it has come is not known. The scene, left outside of the Telrae'dor council chambers, was described thusly: Your Lies Can't Save You

The plethora of notices posted throughout the Al'Shadar district accusing the Vizier of an affair with the Valgard King's niece, leading to an alliance against Telrae'dor, finally come to the attention of the Arjat Honor Guard.

Guardsmen are ordered to take down any they find and apprehend anyone caught with such a notice on their person. Notices they can get their hands on are set ablaze. The Guardsmen cannot, of course, be everywhere at once; determined souls might well find ways to sneak up new ones in between patrols, but do so at their own peril.

At it again! Some may have see a dark Sythian woman and her darker slave toting off with a potted plant from somewhere in the Aviary district-- ((plant was owned by: ᴘᴏᴘᴇ ᴘᴏssᴜᴍ ᴛʜᴇ xɪɪɪ (aphrissura) )) Those in the Suttenborg district may have also seen this plant carrying (thieving!) duo making direct lines to a certain shop...

A Dubh Gentry man in a steel curiass and green fluffed sleeves has been seen throughout the citadel posting up this message:

Criers from Jarnfell run through the districts....
Let it be known, today's celebrations will be more joyous and blessed. Welcomed to join in the celebration in Arjat for all the northern states, on this most joys of days, jarnfell announces that there will be an alliance of states. The Thaness Nevaeh Wolfram, daughter to the Warlord Kol Wolfram will be joining in union with the Vizier Khalil Zaheem, most esteem of Arjat. May their union bring accord, peace and joy between the peoples of the north and those of our southern brothers.

After notification, in a show of unity to the Aviary district: Halberg men-at-arms would begin patrolling the streets of their district alongside Frem and Dyrling men. Administering another barrier of protection for the good citizens of it's streets. They take up roles in the night, well-rested and ready to face the darkness and any terrors from Al'Shadar or elsewhere that might slither in the gloom. Assuredly, the Aviary is now a staunch bulwark of Arcovia's continued protection: now that the boar is added to it's already considerable defense.

Upon being notified, soon a few extra red-headed guards were instructed to take extra patrol throughout the aviary, checking in and out of shops. Probably grumbling about how they could be at least near the embassy with the whiskey but keeping ever vigilant and watchful through the streets and making sure to stagger along the Dyrling guards to watch where they couldn't.

In response to recent outbreaks of hostilities in Al'Shadar, Telrae'dor has increased it's military presence within the Aviary district. More guards patrol the streets, observing and keeping the peace, and should any witness known citizens of Al'shadar pass through it would be noted that the guards are quick to send word back to their captains. It's rumored that Telrae'dor is encouraging other city-states residing in the aviary to do the same to keep the peace in Arcovia.

Novawick, Raa'Edan 1121 (3/16-20/21)

Arcovia Annoucements

Beards longer than three inches below the base of the chin have been deemed no longer suitable for the citizens of The Arcovian Citadel. Such facial hair is unsanitary and has become a method by which unsavory individuals identify one another. From this day forward, any individual with facial hair exceeding three inches below the base of the chin will be barred from entry into any Guild run buildings until the hair has been properly shorn. If an individual’s facial hair is deemed to be too unruly or unkempt, the individual in question may be expected to pay a fee each week until they attend to the matter sufficiently.

Henceforth, bodies of the deceased that are discovered within Arcovian city limits will be held in a Guild facility for a period of five days. If the body is unclaimed after this length of time, the body becomes the property of the Guild and shall be disposed of in whatever manner it deems proper. This sentiment holds true regardless of burial practices of the deceased’s city-state of origin. The Guild is also not responsible for discovering the identity of the body, or seeking out and notifying next of kin. If an individual is missing, notifying a Guild member and scheduling a supervised visit to the holding facilities should be a top priority of concerned parties. The Guild requires a three day notice to schedule an appointment.

After a thorough review by the Arcovian Guild, claims regarding mislabeled weight of bread have been proven unsubstantiated. Multiple samples were provided from each day’s production to the members of the Guild for the period of a month. Each loaf was then tested rigorously for adherence to standards, and each loaf fell within the acceptable margins of weight. Any further claims of impropriety regarding Pain Quotidien in The Aviary district should be disregarded as slander.

Duels remain, as always, a self regulatory means of dispute resolution that are fully approved by the Guild. With the new influx in Arcovian citizens and foreign dignitaries alike, clarification regarding the Guild’s involvement in any such disputes is required. Firstly, if two parties enter into terms (either verbal or written) to partake in a duel, and a member of said party does not arrive at the agreed upon time or location, that member is in breach of contract and subject to Guild punishment. If all parties involved decide against carrying through with the deed before the agreed upon date, they must do so through a formal documentation that can be verified by a third party if needed. The Guild encourages dutiful documentation, or the presence of witnesses when agreeing to take part in a duel, and the terms of the duel itself. This makes for greater ease in determining fault, should any breach arise. Any outcome of a duel that does not violate the party’s agreed upon terms, or any Guild edicts, is acceptable within the city’s bounds.

Finally, we want to remind all of the people that we will be on high alert during this weeks Spring Fertility Festival for inappropriate celebrations! Last year no less then four score of people were detained, chargeed and fined for breaking the modestly laws! I expect you all to do -better- this year!

Tiberian Legionaries

This morning, a group of Tiberian legionaries in gleaming lorica led by a centurion arrived to call upon the Tenysian embassy. Joined by a Tenysian group of dignitaries, the squadron proceeded back through Al-Shadar where they took up positions around the bathhouse. Casual bathers are turned away at the entrance as the attendants apologize for the private event in progress.

To Sythian Citizens

The council of sythian dignitaries residing in Arcovia has posted an announcement, for the residents of Tenysia and for those stationed in the Citadel working for Tenysia "Sythian citizen are advised to stay out of the Al'Shadar district to avoid unnessisary hostility as the area is currently unsafe. The Tenysia Head Agents are attempting to resolve the issue at hand. If you enter the Al'Shadar district without the invitation you do so without the protection of the Tenysia embassy."

More then they bargined for

Upon recent events that have occurred in the district of Al'Shadar, Bheka being disturbed about false rumors of their diplomat have gone to the same lengths as Arjat and Tiberia. The agreement that was underway with Tenysia has been broken and annulled by Bheka and there might not be a chance to recover. As Amahle knew that something like this would happen, she would go to extreme lengths to not bother with Tenysia or any Sythian for that matter. Yet, she has a faltering standing with Arjat since they were part of that deal and should've kept Tenysia in check. Someone would get more than what they bargained for from Bheka.

A disturbed slumber

Domina Caelia, head agent to the diplomat and the eyes and ears of the Rex woke after a fitful night. Dreams or premonitions assaulted her slumber, leaving her to toss and turn through the night. As the day broke, she was once again assaulted by the pitter patter of tiny feet, muffled talking and the ever unwelcome knock on her chamber doors. "Enter" she called out, already rising from her bed as the messenger entered along with a half a dozen grubby unkempt children. "Domina..I could not" her messenger began, but quickly fell silent as Caelia raised her hand to mute him. Handing her a missive, she read the news about Miles, her advisor, on a mission for HER, and his arrest. Her ire continued to raise until it was like a molten hot core inside of her belly as she continued to hear about what had transpired during the evening hours in her district. The children, her "rats" gave further accounts until Caelia felt her head might explode "Enough!" she bellowed out, snapping her fingers at her handmaids, her servants and anyone that ventured near her chambers "Feed the children and give them coins" she barked "And find my rapier. I will speak with every head agent involved this day and may they pray to their gods that my temper has diffused by then" Caelia continued to shout and give orders, the normally placid diplomat earning every bit of the Tiberian namesake of a raging bull with horns.

A change in the political tempo!

About two hours or so after the Sythian noblewoman is driven from her improvised stage, it becomes clear that quite a few in the district were, in fact, listening. New orders have passed through the Arjat Honor Guard. Those caught spreading word of these rumors are arrested, or worse. One not even necessarily need be Tenysian to draw their ire; simply being pale enough to pass for one or thought to look too similar is justification enough to be targeted as well.

Still, the Honor Guard are very few compared to the population of the district, their ability to patrol limited even more by the increased security at the Arjat embassy. For every one person apprehended, there are undoubtedly dozens more able to go unnoticed. This indiscriminate and violent reaction to the declaration from the Sythian no doubt adds fuel to the fires of unrest.

An announcement by one of Tenysia

Along the streets of Al'Shaddar, people can see the figure of a bloodied and injured Sythian noblewoman and her slave, accompanied by a Tiberian in sythian/euresu armor, and a Bantu, walking along as mobs swarm them. A panther is seen growling towards the mobs, in an effort to keep them away, but violence and havoc are at a peak in the district. Suddenly, the noblewoman and her slave run up the stairs to a platform, seemingly to regard this angry mob. Whether any of it is heard or not, is up to who wishes to hear it. The slave is reading from a parchment in common, the noblewoman hiding behind him:

"Residents of Al'Shaddar, the claims they speak of the Tenysian people are false, a ploy made to bring us war when all we ever wanted was peace..! We gathered, with Bheka and Arjat, to discuss an alliance only two days prior, and I, Lady Pimjai, have offered my sister as a bride to Vizier Zaheem! But a former Warmaster in our council, Goro bindu Al Zuma, was found giving treatment, as he called it, to none other than the red headed concubine of the Vizier, who wished to have intercourse with him! She was taken back to Al'Shaddar, by Lady Pimjai herself! This, in no part, was done by the Tenysian Embassy, but by a RAPIST, exiled from Tenysia and her extensions! Not affiliated with the dignitary council! This same man, has claimed to give treatment, as he calls it, to AMAHLE KHANYISILE, the Diplomat of Bheka, and Vizier Zaheem's lover! If there has been poisoning, it must have been done by our former, treacherous Warmaster! But Tiberia, we ask you! Lady Pimjai asks you..! If we poisoned a Domina, why is it! That you sent your own soldier! To ask us for help! In determining the poison in your fruits basket!"

Before they can say anything else, oranges, vases, bottles and just about anything else is thrown in their direction, the noble woman screaming and running back down with her slave to seek refuge.

Arjat Embassy Guards

Guards around the Arjat embassy increase significantly not long after the soldiers march into the streets of Al'Shaddar. The increase lasts through the evening and into the next morning. Those who come to visit are ushered inside in a hurry so the doors may be closed behind them. The reason for this is is easily explained by significant unrest and increased violence in the streets of the city district.

Plant Theft

Unexpectedly and swiftly, a certain Sythian and her dark slave may have been seen entering and leaving the Al'Shaddar district to steal a pink flowered plant... Those in the Suttenborg district may have likewise seen the flower-pot carrying slave and her Kamakii (Mistress) making way to the shop across from the bath-house, where said plant (and a 2nd!) may be seen to reside...

Poison and Assault in Al'Shadar

Tenysian citizens living in Al'Shaddar, along with Sythian visitors to the district have been assaulted en mass. Men dressed in armor of golden sand and black obsidian clearly belonging to Arjat and the prominent Red and Black of the Centurions of Tiberia seem to be working in Consort to drive them out. When questioned an answer is actually given. “Sythians have engaged in poisoning and manipulation through drugs of prominent citizens.” Furthermore Sythians carrying any letters or correspondence belonging to a noble who lives within Al'Shaddar gets released. It is well organized and seems to be have been planned.

Slaves, servants and shop-keeps rumor the poisoning of the Domina and the removal of an infamous harem girl of Arjat from the embassy were both linked to the machinations and actions of Sythian manipulators. Further spurring on acts of violence against their people in the Arcovian district.

Octwick, Raa'Edan 1121 (3/12-15/21)

Alfarian patrols within Suttenborg increase. Tis no rumor, tis clear as day to those that frequent the Northern district.

After a week of silence and business away from home, the caravans of Valgard return from beyond the borderlands of the Citadel, with new goods for the Northerners and for Trade. Led by the Old Wolf, once again the Caravans are bringing exquisite ingredients for bread, and mead, and other resourcers to strengthen their position within. It is clear they are not hiding this.

Rumors of tensions potentially rising between Northern factions of Suttenborg and visiting Dyrlings might spread. Whispers of Telrae'dor's agents allegedly seeking to steal a Northern slave during a sacred moot are perhaps upon the tongues of some in Suttenborg among the small crowd that likely witnessed the events of what may have been a stand-off.

Rumors would spread of a promiscuous pussy bearing their nipples and genitals to the masses within the district of Chayuan. Some offended nobles about sent for guards on a wild chase around the grounds but the brazen harlot escaped into a tea parlor.

A cousin of a brother's uncle's second wife, heard from her best friend's friend- who happens to be from Jarnfell, that one of the guards that visited the sake shop had at least two of the three predictions come true. Two out of three.....want to know your future?

Septwick, Raa'Edan 1121 (3/10/21)

Whispers Convene

Whispers convene within the streets of the Crossroads and Al'Shadar. Two legionaries accompanied by a well known noble lady were seen casually speaking in the streets before the lady was seen to have coughed up blood and carried away by the centurion. The other warrior sprinting in the opposite direction; seeking help no doubt. Al'Shadar citizens witnessed the centurion carrying the woman into the baths, his backside covered in blood.

Septwick, Raa'Edan 1121 (3/9/21)

Dark Clad Warriors

Word spreads quickly through the Aviary and the rest of the citadel, that a group of dark clad warriors, numbering a half dozen, went into the Albion Embassy and left with someone hauled over their shoulder with a rucksack over their head. They went off to an undisclosed location.

Khonzhou and Fendahl

Khonzhou Imperial officials would announce that a formal alliance has been agreed upon between Khonzhou and their distant relatives and neighbors of Fendahl. Although time will tell whether the people of the two city-states can really overlook each other's differences, the close partnership can be seen as the first step in unifying the East.

Halberg's Spymaster

Halberg agents in service to the small council are hereby officially notified that on this Sept'wick of Raa'edan your Emissary has rendered a charge of treason and issued a sentence of death for the Regidor to Halberg. Any Halstein wishing to challenge the lady von Röth's justice may do so during an open council meeting on the morrow at the bell's eleventh toll

Septwick, Raa'Edan 1121 (3/8/21)

Fortune Teller

Word has it, that if you seek to understand your future, one only has to visit the Fenrii dressed in white and her tiny companion in the Sake and Teawares shop in Chayuan. She might be slightly elusive, but if you catch her on the right day, secrets to what lay ahead may be bestowed upon you, as well as a free drink of sake.

Septwick, Raa'Edan 1121 (3/7/21)

Knights of the Iron Hand

A warning is nailed to the walls of every district. It contains the following message:

We will reclaim our traditions back in blood. We are weary of our just ways being trampled upon by the degradation of societal values. Now is when we will act before it is too late.

We will take back our culture before it becomes too sickened by the impure diseases of wickedness and immorality. We will demand chaste virtue and moral righteousness at the points of our swords.

We are the militant defenders of what is good and holy. We will defend the just and the righteous by killing the morally bankrupt. All that is evil will be made to suffer before death.

Consider yourself warned by the Knights of the Iron Hand. Tread carefully with your morals. You have been notified.

Septwick, Raa'Edan 1121 (3/6/21)

Announcement of the Ball

Come one, come all to the Arcovia Citadel Raa’Edan, first sign of green jubilee

In celebration for the cold break in the Central lands and the waters fall in the South signaling the coming planting the Citadel will be hosting a ball for natives and guests of Arcovia who wish to mark another blessed turning season with merriment. The festivities are funded by a council of local business’ and patrons, hosted by Eckard Asher von Wahle with the blessing of the Arcovian Guild.

The gathering will be on First Septwick of Raa’Edan at the fourth bell of the evening. All are encouraged to dress in the traditional garb of their home to celebrate what their State provides for the wider community.

Sexwick, Raa'Edan 1121 (3/5/21)

Rumble in Chayuan

Peace in the East District! The Jurchen rejoice, celebrating a successful showing of their ancient martial arts when Hanza of the Red Sun, Lord of House Sekura defeated the Sythian menace terrorizing their fair maidens. The benevolent act finally puts an end to the rippling effect of the Snake People’s tumultuous arrival. Men, women and children alike; all rekindle their love for theatre and song while re-enacting the ‘epic’ fight, singing praises to the local hero.

Meanwhile, it’s not all flowers and lanterns after a prominent business owner in the area has gone missing. Sources say it was punishment by the gods, others have entertained the idea of gamblers taking revenge for the loss; a wager gone wrong. This comes after repeated reports of illegal activity in the Tea House.

Still, many believe these events are.. an attempt to sully the honor and prestige of the upcoming First Continental Martial Arts tournament hosted by Khonzhou; where combatants from all over the realm are expected to showcase their homeland’s martial strength. A blood sport.. in unarmed combat!

Back Alley of the Aviary

One of the walls in the back alley of the Aviary was found to have been graffitied. Local youths are believed to be responsible for the Golden Rooster image that will be cleaned up once the guild dispatches someone to wash it away.

Sexwick, Raa'Edan 1121 (3/3/21)

Arcovia Guild Announcements

Henceforth, quivers may contain no more than 5 arrows within the city bounds. The only exceptions to this rule are certain specified training areas, arenas where contests are being held, and within one's own domicile. Any individual found to be in violation of this decree shall be penalized with no less than a week in the stocks and a fine to be determined by the number of arrows that exceeded the enforced limit.

Shirtlessness within the city proper is forbidden, except in designated areas. This rule applies to all citizens regardless of age or gender. The allowed areas of shirtlessness are provided in a list that can be picked up at The Aviary, but include areas such as brothels, bath houses, private domiciles, and certain training facilities. If a guild member witnesses unauthorized shirtlessness, the individual is required to leave their location immediately to obtain a proper garment, after their name is taken down. Both those who refuse to cooperate and those who are repeat offenders will be subject to time in the stocks.

A reminder: All deaths of Ceon birds are considered the purview of The Arcovian Guild, and thus all matters regarded their deaths shall be investigated by The Guild’s agents alone. Any attempt to hinder an investigation or spread unverified suppositions before investigations have concluded will be dealt with harshly. Citizens are encouraged to refrain from any actions that could be construed as causing a hindrance to the spread of verified information.

The band of six pickpockets that were menacing the marketplace in Al’Shadar have been discovered, and punished. All six boys have had two digits from their right hand removed. There is a suspected seventh party that is believed to be the ringleader of this band of thieves. Any information regarding the identity of the youth is required to be provided to a Guild member as soon as possible. Anyone found to be withholding information will be subject to the same degree of punishment as the individual they are protecting.

Caravans from the North

The arrival of several Caravans of the North announce the coming of Ilcarion Wistari and his family to the district of Suttenborg, with the intent of trading the northern goods. More than six or seven full carts of different products from the Northern Lands could be seen entering the region guarded by several rough Valgard men.

The approach of more Northern men and women start to become obvious as Suttenborg becomes lively with new fresh faces eager for a chance in the great Citadel.

New Tenysia

After coming to a lull, irrigation and commerce slowly awaken in the mystic Mvau Marsh communities, there is still a mystery in general as to what happened that had cast what locals now refer to as “The Black Fog” over the month of Al-Sargas where Sythians en masse were sent to Arcovia, stifling governmental functions; causing some delay in the ssswing of things.

In Chayuan, the arrival of the “snake people” has been observed to cause a minor disruption in local businesses who live in relative peace that may have not been accustomed to these new exiles’ eccentricities. Patrons of the Teahouse reportedly heard a prominent merchant of the land proclaiming the eastern district as “New Tenysia”; the tail growss before it is eaten.

The streets of the Al’Shadar district seems to have been more grey in tones than its usual vibrant hue as the owner of the pottery shop has succumbed to death presumably of natural causes. New tenants have moved in as sightings of snakes crawling about the nearby garden, of varying sizes and color, rises. Two dead bodies wrapped in dirty linen has been reportedly seen being dropped off near the Bhekan embassy; body count: 03.

Sexwick, Raa'Edan 1121 (3/2/21)

Alteration in the Aviary

Passers-by in the aviary district report sightings of an altercation in the noble district. One witness says that after repeated insults, a Dyrling man with pink hair attempting to punch the other in the face whilst a darker-headed man stood by and watched. Another witness says it was an all-out brawl complete with hair pulling which awoke her from her sleep. In other news, the new diplomats have been chosen for Telrae’dor, and there is some speculation as to who was actually chosen. The public eagerly awaits word on who will be in charge of their prosperity.

Sexwick, Raa'Edan 1121 (3/1/21)

Opening day news ...

The city-state of Valgard has no current allies nor enemies. They are awaiting their winter wheat to bring to market. Alfarian armies have been seen on the southern border of Valgard and Telrae’dor as the fortification there is reinforced.

Tenysia remains, as ever, on unsteady footing with its surrounding city-states. Generally reviled but still, a provider of necessary resources, no clear lines of allyship have been drawn. With a treaty regarding shared trade routes with Bheka set to expire in the near future, tensions between the two city-states are at an all-time high.

Rusavik has begun its slow and deliberate expansion, bringing it dangerously close to conflict with Halberg. Relations with Valgard remain cordial, while those with Khonzhou are chilled but silent for now.

Khonzhou is enjoying a period of relative peace with its neighbors, its only current goal being to patrol and secure their part of the Ulikh Steppes, continuing to honor the Khonzhou/Halberg treaty of 1044. The current noble politics of Khonzhou can be divided into two groups: Those who support the warlord and his expansionist views, and those who support the unity and stability of east Essealas, with centralized power in the Emperor. Travelers bring rumors of an upcoming martial arts tournament being held in Arcovia.

Arcovia and the guild have expanded the wealth and grandeur leaps and bounds from years past. Prosperity reigns and new lawful measures have been expedited as a means of producing and maintaining peace in the city streets! Arcovias soldiers have gone out and expanded the hold of the city so as to maintain and keep strong its “neutral” borders. New officials from across the continent to oversee the handling of all communications. We are excited for the change away from the old guard.

The city-state of Tiberia is in active negotiations with both Arjat and Bheka to establish fair trading routes and commitment to not place forces on their borders. The talks are strained due to previous declarations of a 40 year trading ban on Tiberia. For now, they are peaceful discussions, but that may change should anything upset this delicate balance.

Aside from the previous comments about communication, Arjat has been keeping to itself and quietly expanding its borders. There is a sense of resentment or bitterness toward Tiberia and a feeling of friendship toward Bheka.

Bheka has begun establishing a solid friendship with Arjat. Although, there might be some debate about the line splitting the Flood Plains. There is some progress with Tiberia in developing a tradelines through Arjat and a possible connection with Halberg. No clear negotiation with Tenysia yet but things are strained a bit since there’s been bad history for a long time.

The Northern menace that is Jarnfell, continues to focus its raid efforts on Telrae’dor in response to their taxation. With the wolves otherwise tolerating the other neighboring city-states, their interactions with Albion has increased from necessity over want. In the meantime, with their armies on the move, it is rumored that they are looking to expand their reach.

During the month of Al-Sargas a cote of ceon departed from Halberg and arrived within the Arcovian city proper. Within days it was noted that a large number of the more recognizable and tenured members of the Halstein corps of agents have weighted travel wagons and left noble Arcovian residences empty. However recently, the decimated Halberg contingent of agents, has been showing signs of restoration. Unfamiliar, but distinctly Halstein, persons begin to descend upon the city. A drastic ‘changing of the guard’ is apparent though the cause has yet to reveal itself. Meanwhile, an aged and trusted bird arrives with a message from Halberg for the local Tenysian delegation, however before the delivery of its urgent words the bird is felled to a natural demise. It is rumored, in the absence of more detached modes of diplomacy, the first steps in a diplomatic dance between strange bedfellows has begun.

Ever a cautious crew, there have been rumors that the careful city-state of Fendahl has been shoring up resources. Those in power have been notably tight-lipped when questioned, but it seems like the prudent Fenrii may be preparing for something significant. A recent heavy increase in the Fenrii population within the bounds of The Arcovian Citadel seems to substantiate those rumors.

No other news is available from Albion and Telrae'dor.

Rusavik and Khonzhou

News quickly spreads of a formal land agreement between Rusavik and Khonzhou. In a show of mutual cooperation, Khonzhou has ceded land containing a derelict stronghold (shown in red) in its north-western territory over to Rusavik. In exchange, Rusavik formally recognizes Khonzhou's borders and vows to keep its troop movements outside of Jurchen land.

Khonzhou's proponents of war and expansion would likely interpret this gesture to be a move of cowardice, surrendering land to one of their oldest enemies. However, those who favor unity and progress would likely see this as a wise and strategic decision diplomatically, further legitimizing and strengthening Khonzhou's position in the east with recognized borders.

Last Month near Tenysia

Bog of War

A black fog has been seeping from within the Mvau Marsh towards Mirkwood, as if there has been the burning of flesh and surrounding foliage. Though witnesses say this ‘flash fire’ seems to be more contained than that of one that is wildly spreading. It may create an illusion of the swamp being more ‘haunted’ than it is, specially from a higher vantage point like the Ulikh Steppes. Rumors of a plague and the Omen abound as parties and social celebrations for The Scorpion, Al-Sargas cycle held by many Sythians come to an end, where many tend to continue the revelry and festivities for days, weeks and even months.

However a more pressing matter regarding the Black Forest and its surrounding borders being blocked off by what looks like a “dam of dead naked bodies” where news of “swampy boiling blood and melty rotting corpses” have been floating upstream contaminating the river passages are abound. Speculation is the entire Royal Banquet was poisoned, which has put the Tenysian commerce at a stand still.

With this comes reports of more smugglers, illegal trades happening in the routes established with Bheka, no official word was given about the matter except that Sythian delegates have been sent out in what locals are calling a ‘mass exile’ in which many claim is a “deliberate response for the befallen bird”, whatever that means.

February, 2021

Opening Weekend (2/23/21)

I just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone for their interest in Arcovia and joining us both here, on sim and in the SL group. Given the current progression of joins I am expecting this coming weekend to be very hectic.

To be frank I did not staff enough people to handle the potential influx. Consequently, I am going to ask everyone to help make this process as smooth as possible for new players. If you are able and willing greet new players, talk to them about faction ideas, encourage them, offer tours and try and help them connect with others. Many of you have experience as staff and admins on other RP sims and know what to do, I hope you'll reach out and assist here.

As we settled, and there is enough oxygen to go around I will look to hire more staff.

Thank you everyone for understanding. Branwyn, Bane and Torolf and the rest of the Arcovia Staff.

Regarding Faction Leads

I just want to take a moment to again address the topic of Faction Leads. We do not have pre-assigned faction leads. There are a handful of players who helped me establish the opening storyline. Some of these players intend to take leadership positions in their city state -- some do not. They get a 24 hour early access to choose their preferred role. ALL OTHER ROLES are first come first serve at noon SLT March 1st. More then 36 position will be available. You don't need to do anything to get one of these roles, other then to be the first person to request it via the hud at noon SLT. There is also a number of ways to get the position someone else has: How to Join

In a nut shell, no one know who's going to be ICLY "in charge" prior to opening day, even me. If you need OOC help, you can speak to any of my staff, myself or use the Q&A channel.

Status Update (2/20/21)

I know that many of us are waiting until opening day to know what our RPCSS role will be, and for some that stalls any early role-play. However, its perfectly acceptable to keep your role "secret" until such time as we have actual roles assigned.

Consequently, I both give permission and encourage you to set up role-play encounters with others on sim before we open. Most visitors in non-medieval clothing run through quickly and are easy enough to ignore.

Call it an unofficial soft open as of today if you like.

Hud Testing

There is a new TESTING Hud

1. Please delete all previous copies of the hud that you have.
2. The new Hud is available from the same box at the landing that you got the prior one.
3. Touch the box, not buy contents!

What has changed

1. Your Display name and HP's show over your head.
2. The dice use the account name not the display name so it no longer errors out on weird characters.
3. Using /4 you can type with your character name as a chat overide.
4. /4 afk will toggle on and off afk so you can not be attacked if afk.

This Hud attaches on click, and will deattach when you leave the sim, so you will need to re-click the box on entry again if you wish to continue testing.

HP regeneration and attack delays are still set for testing durations.

Duwick, Raa’Edan (2/11/21)

House Triarius welcomes nobles and citizens alike to the opening of their newly cleaned bathhouse

House Triarius understands that many nobles and citizens have unfortunately been affected by the temporary closing of the bathhouse in the Al'Shardar district. To apologize for this inconvenience, House Triarius has graciously opened the doors to the baths with flourish.

Please join us for a night of exotic food, the very best wine the Arcovia District has and the newly cleaned and sanitary baths.

As a special treat, Fade's Fabulous Pharmaceuticals has offered free oil sampling and perfume to the first 30 citizens. Friday 6PM (SLT) Al'Shardar district.

Menu

Dormice stuffed with honey, walnuts and poppy seeds (limit 4 per customer)

Goat milk cheese with an assortment of nuts, pork and bread

Garum sauce (fish gut sauce) with tender new apples and honey

Plum wine and House wine (dark and oaky)

Priwick, Raa’Edan (2/7/21)

We are on schedule. The sim build is 98% complete, the lore is complete, character bios are being submitted, and even some role-play is happening on sim. Right now we are just waiting on the Hud for testing, which we expect to have this week. We are go for March 1st! The sim will be opening on Noon SLT March 1st which is when the factions will be formed and faction roles are chosen.

The pre-opening faction leads will get 24 hour advanced opportunity to pick which of the four roles in their faction that they wish. All other roles will be on a first come first serve basis at Noon SLT on March 1st. If you are looking to have a lead role as head agent to the diplomat, warlord, spymaster or coinmaster, you will want to be on sim to pick up the hud and set up your profile.

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