THE RETURN OF ASLIN DREVEN

Princess Aslin returned to Dreven City recently, although the exact date of her arrival appears to be in question. Shunning fanfare, she apparently took up lodging at a local inn and promptly set about establishing a male harem currently consisting of ex-Ambassador Edail Archiras, ex-Klock Captain Shieh Sioriin, and Nik Somebody (it would be a pity if this handsome youngster ruined the pattern and wasn't an ex-something!). The Un-Princess was invited to tea at Taysàyad by the Steward's daughter, but one wonders if it was a ploy and it is really the Steward himself behind the invitation.

While the Silver Moon Knights were quick to offer their (apparently undesirable) services, neither did Arboria waste any time trying to weasle into Aslin's good graces. An elf going by the name Ki'Leana -- and reputed to be a geomancer -- was quick to try to attach herself to the princess's side.

Public opinion about Emperor Tumian's sister varies wildly. There are those loudly celebrating her reappearance, those who fret that she'll 'ruin everything,' and those who fear that -- purposefully or not -- she will be the cause of another civil war. Any and all consideration seems to be on hold, however, as her royal self disappeared from the Dreven Scene in approximately (as near as this reporter can tell) the middle of Soothcool. It is anyone's guess what she will do next.

Crosswinds Bartender Victim of Attempted Kidnapping

In one of the stranger news stories to cross our desks as of late, a bartender at the Crosswinds Tavern named Cristian was the victim of a kidnapping attempt on the Twenty-Eighth of Soothcool. According to reports, the assailant hit Cristian over the head while he was on the front porch and dragged him off into the woods.

The young man was rescued by a number of patrons who were present at the tavern that night, including Baron Streylan and other tavern regulars Kirin, Cate, Jinx and Kee. The kidnapper sustained several injuries during the enthusiastic rescue, including a few bite marks.

After intense questioning by authorities, the would-be kidnapper admitted he had believed that Cristian was for some reason both rich and a Mayor, and that he had hoped to solicit ransom for his safe return. When informed that Cristian was in fact 'just a bartender' and also often 'full of it,' the kidnapper used excessively foul language that cannot be repeated here.

Staff at the Gazette have been unable to confirm reports that the following tenday the young tender had given himself a promotion and was now telling everyone he was an Emperor.

Freetown, Easttown, and Lanton all have sent reports of a record fishing season. Shipments of dried and smoked fish should arrive at the Dreven Market before the end of Goldfall. Merchants predict a fall in the price of dried and smoked fish due to the surplus produced this year.

News of a change in the Black Wolf Company leadership has reached us. Both Captains, Rulyar and Taal, have been promoted to oversee the day-to-day operations while the Company Founder will attend to more delicate matters. We managed to ask General Rulyar if this change would force her to resign from her current Council position. The Lady informed us that she has no plans for leaving the Council and will still serve the people of Dreven and this promotion will not take her away from Dreven in the foreseeable future.

Due to the increase of students at Dreven University new additions to the existing buildings are being considered. The university plans to hold a contest to allow all architects a chance to submit their drawings and ideas.

By Order of the Dreven Magistrate

On the 5th of Moonshare, Mistress Anola Bredar was found guilty of Assault. Brian Fanir, her victim, was found guilty of petty theft. Mistress Bredar caught Brian Fanir stealing pies she had set out to cool and proceeded to chase the young man with a broom and administer a severe beating to him. Mistress Bredar was fined 5 gold pieces along with the cost of the vivomancers and Brian Fanir will be serving a punishment of two tendays in the stocks.

On the 4th of Moonshare, Randar Klein was found guilty of Murder of his brother-in-law Clarus Metzger. He was publicly executed by hanging on 13th of Moonshare.

The Apple Tree

This cycle saw the opening of a new bakery called The Apple Tree. Proprietor Akia Devlin offers a large selection of cakes, pies, fritters and even meatpies. Many things are cooked fresh to order and she offers her skills of baking and cooking to the less skilled amongst us. Special orders are always welcome. The shop is attached to the Gettin' Place, another successful local favorite, and opens one candlemark after sunup for breakfast and closes one candlemark after sundown. Miss Akia Devlin will take special orders through the morning to be delivered in the evening hours. It has already received a glowing revue from on of the Crosswind Tenders.

'I stopped by The Apple Tree before my shift and it was very busy. I bought a little of everything Akia had left and brought it in to the Crosswind tavern, where it was enthusiastically received. Several of our regulars have given her great reviews as well. I highly recommend this new venture.'
~ Sasha~

Arts and Entertainment

The S'Oshan Way - One of the more popular exports from the islands is "The S'Oshan Way," a wildly talented musical group that consists of percussionists, singers and dancers. The dancing is not for the faint-of-heart and frequently involves audience participation. You won't want to miss this show!

The Crosswinds Tavern Acting Troup is proud to present their very own murder mystery/musical, 'The Disappearance of Lady Hermione Cruikshank.' The author(s?) gleefully weave a madcap tale of murder and mayhem in which the lady's children attempt to get rid of her in order to claim their inheritance. Surpise guest appearance by Magistrate Walter Trask.

A Look Outside Shadokhan's Borders

Oceanuusians Making Waves

'Merrot' continues to ruin the looks of many Mer 'pets,' though there has as yet been no word that progress has been made in eliminating the scourge. Healers, snake-oil salesmen and street-corner tinkers, though, offer an astonishing array of miracle cures.

The usually reticent Archmagess Miri Bayani earned public favor by supporting government funded schooling for children of all ages, races and economic background. In a startlingly bold statement, she suggested that funds used to keep the expanding society of 'pale-haired pets' in style and comfort might be better used in an endeavor that would help assure the future of all S'oshans.

Thermador

Ever since their return to Thermador, the tribes have been rebuilding their lives and homes as best they can. Greystone has been quiet on the outside, but rumors from inside its walls say that the Council is in an uproar. They are denying Latani and Tandiri what they feel is their rightful place as Arch-Magess' of Thermador. Many families throughout Thermador are waving off the recruiters of the school in fear they will lose even more loved ones to another mad leader.

News from Luminii

Turmoil at Desleben. Reports have surfaced that Anara Midiere, long believed missing, is likely dead, but no one has yet stepped forward to explain what might have happened to the Archmagess of Vivomancy. Anara had served as Archmagess since Moonshare 1272, and was well-known for her efforts to maintain peace both during and after the Klockwork Rebellion.

With the reports of this unfortunate passing has also come news that a new Archmagess has ascended to leadership. Julia Galyn, a former Nostrellan who was believed killed by the Klocks after the Tivili Decree, resurfaced mysteriously in Damansque and soon afterward brought back to life a young woman who had been killed in an unspecified accident.

The new Archmagess is the elder sister of Lady Nadiya Galyn, manager of Galyn Wineries. The Lady Galyn also serves as an advisor to the Archon.

A Summit at Fort Wantlokin. The Gazette has received word that the Lord General has put out the call to Silver Moon Knights throughout Hyathis to join together at Fort Wantlokin for an important summit. Knights should be receiving orders from their commanding officers soon, with information on when to report.

Vinoricco Horse Racing. The final race of the season will be happening on the Tenth of Goldfall, weather permitting. Results of the race on the Thirtieth of Soothcool are as follows: 'Dawn's Early Light' in First Place, 'Daydream' in Second, and 'Earthfreeze' in Third. 'Will's Folly', an early favorite coming into the race, was unable to compete due to injury.

Arborian Rustlings

With the recent lifting of Trade restrictions Arborian wines, teas and liquors are once again flowing in Dreven. While some may rejoice to taste the grapes of Arboria again, we here at the Gazette wonder if the newest 'wine' the forest nation has allowed to cross its borders is not all that it appears. Rumor has it that Starwater may cause the consumer to crave more and more of it. Is this how Arboria is trying to enslave the rest of us to their will?

Rumors from Balthazor

While goods continue to trickle across the border from Balthazor, rumors flit along with the pounding of mounted patrols. Why are the borders being watched so closely if greater trade with surrounding regions is desired? Those who travel by land rather than portal report unrest in Sturrbith, Upland, Nearcoven even Stonetimber. The upsurge in renovation and building that was taking place throughout the baronies seems stalled in some places for unknown reasons, yet unaffected in others. Indeed, from the far north come reports that the roads are safer, the ways clear... and many goods and craftsmen are rolling toward the Requiem to build. Unexplained and frequent deaths are on the rise, though reports are that everything is under control -- but from whose point of view?

Cloosidian Update

There is no news available from Cloosidan at this time. Watch this space for more information in the next issue! Or perhaps the one after that...

The local druid predicts chilly weather with the end of Moonshare and the onset of Goldfall. A few rain showers are to be expected in the coming tenday. Travelers beware. With the changing to Goldfall the first snowfall can be expected Sturrbith Mountains and make travel by wagon and foot more difficult.

by Remus Vlad

In and out of Favor

Just as autumn brings a change in colors, the cooler winds must be having an effect on the hearts in and around Dreven City. While this may be bad news for those that have been broken, it is good news for the rest of us still looking to find a special someone to keep us warm over the winter months.

News has it that the dashing Baron Westin Knowles is back on the Market. Before the ink on the wedding invitation had dried, he had a change of heart and high-tailed back to his home in Thermador. This is not the first time the Baron had saved his own skin from marriage. One wonders if his tastes run to short and stormy romances rather than lengthy devotions. I would not be disinclined to spend the cold winter nights in Thermador to find out just how much this handsome man can warm one up. Which brings us to...

A Woman of Varied Tastes, or,
A Very Tasty Woman

The mysterious Cate Elphinston. Until just a few cycles ago, nobody had heard this name, and one wonders where this dangerous vixen came from? She made her social debut in the Crosswind Tavern, and quickly drew attention with the many hot and steamy arguments between herself and her former Fiance. Baron Knowles or not, it did not take her long to turn other heads. Yes, gentle readers, she flutters from man to man like a butterfly in springtime. Will the race to her heart - or lips - be won by Duncan Mallory or Sir Joss Kiersaark? The latter may leave the field to Mallory, because...

Chivalry Lives!

Joss Kiersaark may prove a hard nut to crack for dear Cate. We have it from good, (and well paid!) informants that the Gallant Knight has fought back not one, but many attempts from Cate to taste his kisses. Neither is she the only woman trying to catch the eye of Sir Tall, Dark and Quiet. He is frequently seen in company with the hunter Ysanne Solaste, and rumor has it that his quarters at the fort are stuffed to the rafter with love letters from an unnamed source (or sources!). Who could this mysterious admirer be, and how much of a danger does she pose to Kiersaark's status on the Eligible Bachelor list? And yet the Blushing Knight remains stoically courteous and unfailingly polite. Finally, a sign that our Knights in shining armor are back. My heart sings at the thought of Chivalry returning to Dreven. While all of our hearts are a-bumping in our chests, are...

No More Things Going Bump in the Night?

With Mooncalling right around the corner one wonders if we will hear more about our Balthazorian Guests. Has no man in Dreven charm enough to catch the eye of Ambassador Soledaad? She beats a poke in the eye with a sharp stick, but maybe it is the many pointy and sharp things she carries on her svelte person that keep the menfolk from venturing to buy her a drink or two. Sister take this hint to heart: lose the swords and somebody will show you how to have a good time Dreven style!

Talking about Ambassadors, former Ambassador Morded Anubis has finally left his grand estate and was seen enjoying a few ales at the Crosswinds. He must be done with sulking over his latest heartbreak. Ladies, this dark and handsome Elf is back on the market and may just be the perfect escort for your Mooncalling Evening. Who better than a master of the dark arts to escort you through the night of the dead? Which reminds me about a few other...

Comings and Goings

Even the Steward of Dreven likes to spend a few coins now and then at the infamous watering hole. One wonders what keeps him coming back -- Is it the titillating company of Nadiya Galyn of Galyn Wineries in Luminii? ( It was overheard he offered her a bath in the lake, not the best way to win a Ladies heart.) Or is it the opportunity to drink to forget his troubles over Baron Streylan? Shocking news out of Taysàyad Keep has it that the handsome baron has resigned as the Steward's Weaponsmaster. Did the baron's pique at being left behind during the grand battle with the Therm Archmage provoke his desertion, or is there something more going on behind closed doors? What could account for his sudden (and mysteriously unexplained) departure to parts unknown? Why would anybody leave the lovely Baroness and her Baking skills for an extended holiday?

Councilor Bliss Lovejoy may have a bun in her own oven. Is it time to congratulate the newlyweds? With all the talk about someone named "Bob," one can't help but speculate on the identity of the father. Which brings me to her husband and his twin. Once again the brothers were in the middle of strange events in the Crosswinds. Mikkaill Gideonn was returned to Dreven Society -- in a heap at his brother Ricoh's feet -- by nothing less than some kind of murderous shadows. Only the daring and fiery efforts of Xiph Silvermoon, the bard and part-time bartender, kept the shadows at bay and made sure the Tavern's patrons would live another day.

While we are on the subject of shadows, some folks seem to come and go without much notice or fanfare. The notorious Crosswinds' patron "Vexie" is one of those. Or perhaps she wishes she was, because clearly she's been noticed by someone, and speculation is stirring. Is she one of the dreaded shades that haunts the Tavern of Ill Repute? Does she actually talk to people? Is she a figment of our imaginations? (I'd like to take that little figment home with me!)

Captain Shieh Sioriin has been strutting his stuff all around Dreven and the Crosswinds. One particular Lady appears to have caught his eye: the one and only Aslin of Dreven. Ever since her return to Dreven, he has made it a point to seek out her company. One wonders if it is truly an affair of the heart or not just a ploy to gain political power. Maybe he has finally learned a friendly takeover may be a smarter move with the Drevens.

While on the subject of takeovers. I am highly disappointed in Brom Stoneheart. Is his latest move of promoting our Kendra Rulyar to 'general' of the Black Wolf Company merely a bold attempt to keep her locked up in her office and away from other interested men? Shame on you! We still have not forgotten how he sent young Amorina out of Dreven and robbed us of her wonderful charms. Drinking a few bottles of lotus does not make us forget how Stoneheart has been trying to get some play between the sheets for himself, either. Given his latest drinking companion and how she glues herself to his side, it looks like he has been more successful then his other new general, Adron Ta'al. Last we heard, all that Ta'al could manage after his long absence was yet another argument with his paramour, who is none other than Lady Kendra. Is this relationship doomed before there are even any juice parts? If she is lucky, some other chap may take the hint and offer his services to rub the tension out of the poor Councilor's shoulders.

Talking about Temptations! Connor McGill and Tristan Black are sorely missed. Have both their lucky Ladies managed to seal the deal with rings yet? We breathlessly await news from Balthazor. Another one of our favorite couples, Angel and Havoc Sadani (How is it again that he doesn't share his father's surname? Inquiring minds want to know!), have spend a lot of time and coin at the Crosswinds. Separately. We are on pins and needles to find out if the rumors about a rift between them are true.

And what may cause a rift between the Crosswinds and its patrons? Asa's latest addition to the staff. He once again is trying his hand with some unknown, inexperienced Lad. Honestly, the old man must be going soft in the head if he insists on hiring every street rat that knocks on the door!

...Which would explain why the cooking in the Tavern has so greatly suffered, as we pointed out in our last issue of the Gazette. Finally, the truth comes out. Abby, who tends the kitchen for her father Asa, must be lacing the Taverns pie with Glee! This is the only explanation for the latest rumor coming from the Crosswind Tavern. Men just do not fall from the sky, and turn out to be prophets of doom. Another exaggeration in a vain attempt to drum up more business by Asa? And yet, a little speck of truth may be hidden in this tall tale of the Man Who Fell From the Sky. He asked for the former proprietor Zharyka Jelahldoran, clear proof we are not the only ones horrified with the current offerings at the Tavern.

Disclaimer: The statements and opinions of our gossip columnist are those of the author only and do not necessarily reflect those of The Dreven Gazette staff, the printers, advertisers, or other persons or businesses named herein.

Announcements

Free to Good Home: Darling long-hair white kitten. 7-8 cyles old. Affectionate, playful, good with children, OR handsome 30 year old husband with good sense of humor, strong work ethics, but doesn't like cats. Both are house trained. Kitten somewhat quieter than husband. Stop by 253 Preston Sreet to see both and decide which you'd like.

For Sale: One full set of hardly-used wooden teeth. Only one tooth missing. One gold or best offer. Leave a message for Winston Lewis at the Smelly Rat if interested.

For Sale: an antique desk suitable for lady with thick legs and large drawers. Also large canopy bed perfect for antique lover. See at corner of Petunia and Grove streets.

Cleaning Available: Tired of cleaning yourself? Let me do it. Industrious and thorough. Good rates. Anita Bath, Trippington Street, Dreven.

For Sale: Used Tools. Why go somewhere else to be cheated? Come here first! Elmer's Farm, one mile north of Dreven.

Letter to the Editor

Citizens of Dreven,

Does anyone wonder why there is not a festival in the lands for the fall ofthe Klockwork regime? There are still celebrations of Corneilus I's victory over the Mad Mage at the battle of the Dawn, or Dawn's Early Light. In Luminii there are remeberences of the victory at Viniriccio and of the fall of Nostrum.

Yet, there is not a single celebration of the fall of the tyranny of the Klockwork. There is a simple reason for such a thing to be true, the Klockwork army has not fallen. Why one only has to walk about on the streets of Dreven and see that the oppressors of the people are in power still. For a cycle they hid their true loyalties, but now, once more, the symbol of the Klockwork passes freely through the capitol streets. Making a mockery of the families ruined, the lives destroyed because some chose to believe in justice and honor above blind loyalty.

Now those these brave souls who suffered at the hands of the Klockwork Army to are left to be affronted by the very symbol of the tyranny in their supposedly freed home land. The very simple fact that a Klockwork Captain now roams our streets with his own soldiers, all bearing the markings of the Klockwork Empire is atoricious and alarming. He moves about our lands with impunity and without answser for the crimes commited on the citizens through his own command.

An army that killed, stole, and oppressed the people and the Steward allows, perhaps even encourages this man to resume as if he has command within our city. It is an affront and an insule that the symbols of the Klockwork are not illegal. Let us not forget that this captain would have killed, without question, anyone with the symbol of the Silver Moon Knights, who were champions of the people, and not their oppressors.

This monster, might have hidden behind his oath of loyalty three years ago, but there is no more Klockwork Master, so he admires the ideals of the Klockwork, which preached equality, as long as it agreed with their own wishes.

This captain has no longer a defense, and should not be allowed to roam free among those whose families he caommanded the slaughter of. Yet we are expected, by the "Steward", to act as if there were no crimes against the populous. Hear it clear steward, the people have not forgotten. Where do your true loyalties lie, Steward of Dreven? Does it lie with the people you profess to love, or does it lie to the order to which you declared your unending and total loyalty?

Perhaps General Steelclaw never left our city and once more pulls the strings of power, hidden in the shadows?

~Stewart Corielee
A Concerned Citizen

(The Editor and Staff of this publication neither condone nor support the ideas presented in the above article. It was printed as a warning to the loyal citizens of Dreven that not all your neighbors are as supportive as they seem. Forewarned is forearmed.)