The Rise of a New State

Dreven, Shadokhan - Notice a few of your favorite things at Dreven Market have gone up in price or are suddenly missing altogether? Heard the rumors of Villisport being closed for trade? Not heard from friends in Eastbay for a while? One should not be too surprised. A new state is on the rise and Aelo Ralasu has declared himself protector of the Western Hills in Shadokhan, which may mean higher prices on dried fish and other commodities from that area.

Though not the first area declaring independence from Dreven, Ralasu has managed to rise to the forefront of rumor with his brash claiming of the Western Hills. He may be ruling with a bloody fist, but he is ruling. His newly established power may not be so unwelcome since Dreven's government has been unable to get the city-to-city fighting under any kind of control. Many say the general displeasure with Dreven started last year as the Ashmaker landed on the coast and started to burn his way towards Dreven.

Dreven, they often complain, never bothered to send troops to help against the invading forces, instead putting off action until it was necessary to take a stand to keep the City of Dreven from falling. One could argue that it was necessary to allow this so that Dreven could gain the time to gather a force strong enough to destroy the Therms at a place of their choosing and that this tactic saved many lives. Ex-general Shaun Broder has come under public condemnation for his actions -- or lack thereof -- in the Thermish conflict as well as his apparent inability to police the rest of the region, a fact that has finally led to his replacement.

Ralasu and others like him have managed to rise very quickly to power on the wings of bitter feelings towards Dreven. Shadokhan's troops, scattered ineffectively across the region, have consistently been met with force and strong resistance not only from mercenary troops but from other organized groups and ordinary citizens. One wonders about the competence of the steward's alleged advisors or if, in fact, he hears them. Reason suggests that the steward keep his troops in Dreven and send a diplomatic envoy to the troubled areas instead. This way he would not have to spend the lives of his men or precious tax money senselessly. Trade throughout the entire region is essential. As long as any area still produces useful goods and manages to send it to market, we do not think twice about who holds the reins of power.

Irmaa and Friends

Has Her Vepness finally ended her sixteen year long self-imposed seclusion on her private island? Yes, we all know she managed to show up just in time to join the Assembly of Mages in their efforts to repair the damage to the ley lines incurred by the Klockmages. That was a year and a half ago. Since then, there's been not a word from the notorious archmagess of necromancy. She didn't bother to put in an appearance at the event of the decade in Balthazor: the wedding of Baroness Tristiana Mikkal. Not that we're complaining. The woman has deplorable manners and a bad case of narcissism. The latest rumor is yet another stellar example. According to recent gossip (though there is nothing more substantial than the word of a few obviously inebriated patrons of the unreliable Crosswinds Tavern), the harpy staged another of her gaudy, theatrical entrances last cycle. Word has it that she burst out of the Northern Portal in a cloud of smoke and stench, accompanied by a pair of demon creatures with glowing crimson eyes. After the unlucky tavern-goers managed to fend off the beasts, Vep reportedly subjected everyone to a fit of verbal abuse, then practically drained the life from one man -- which restored her alleged looks but did nothing for her tawdry outfit. Why are we not surprised?

Arts and Entertainment

The Crosswinds Tavern Acting Troupe continues its performances of Aunts on a Log, a spirited theatrical work about three elderly sisters on a quest to find the perfect man. They have a list and aren't afraid to compare everyone they meet to it. Meet Maude, the oldest and wisest of the trio. She spends her days shaking her cane and telling the neighbor kids to get off her lawn. Then there's Aristedia. As the middle sister she has always felt second best to Maude and never as good as her younger sister, Helen. Helen, the beautiful (and youngest) sibling, spends her time smoking pipeweed and belting back Mountain Crowne in a vain attempt to recapture her youth and one time suiter, Armando. Absurdity abounds as the trio sets out to get their men... by hook or by crook!

Local songsters, Carried Away, come together to provide harmonies and rhythms that inevitably involve their audiences. "Sparkling, fresh, and witty," are the descriptions these youngsters are earning. See for yourself on Hawk, Bear, and Owl days at the Dreven Theater, one hour before the regular show. Playing now through the 25th of Moonshare.

More Mystery
in Lake Silvermere

Dreven, Shadokhan - As reported in the last issue of the Dreven Gazette, once again the Monster in the lake may have reared its ugly head. This time instead of the usual green and brown finned abomination it may be a fiend from the not-so-distant past. The new hire at the Crosswinds Tavern, a young man by the name of Len, has staked his claim to the newest find in the Silvermere Lake. He was overheard boasting to the patrons of the questionable drinking hole to have found a Golem in the lake. Not just any Golem or possible former Klock Servant, no, nothing less then a creation of the infamous Icaruss the Mad Mage.

The morning after the young braggart told his tall tales in the tavern, the Dreven Guard and the Silver Moon Knights organized a search of the shoreline of the lake. Nothing but a pair of old boots and some old buckets turned up in the very extensive search, and it was concluded that too much of the local wine must have clouded the mind of the young man. Both parties assured us there is no danger to Dreven or the surrounding villages from any Golem. If there was one, it would have been found. War Golems do not just appear out of the water. Once again, it looks as if the lake is keeping its mystery to itself, or this is just one large fishing tale.

Voice of the Steward

I'd like to first announce the promotion of Sherakai dan Rikash to General of the Shadokhan Army. Having witnessed his fighting and tactical skills firsthand, I feel confident our security is in competent hands.

The random bandit encounters Dreven has been suffering has diminished. I wish I could say that the threat was eliminated, but there will always be those who prefer to leech off of hard-working citizens.

Aelo Ralasu, self proclaimed warlord of the Western Hills, has managed to remain elusive, preying on merchants and soldiers alike. While his hand doesn't quite reach to the coast, he's managed to disadvantage the coastal ports of Lanton, Eastbay, and Villisport. In addition, self-proclaimed rulers have also appeared in Greenkeep and Freetown. There are rumors of other such plays for power, but they have yet to be confirmed. General dan Rikash is on the move to deal with these issues.

Finally, I'd like to personally thank every citizen who has given of themselves to help to make Dreven and Shadokhan a safer place.

Your servant,
Steward Raphael Dolek

Fraud - Faris Rueller, fined 20 goldpieces and 20 lashes for selling parcels of lake view property in Thermador. All money taken from his former clients was returned to the injured parties.

Assault - Norella Blashmejer, public ducking for assaulting her husband with a broomstick.

Forgery - Marserius Espur, fined 120 goldpieces and right hand branded for forging multiple real estate documents, marriage documents, inventory lists, and payroll books.

Come for a Tasty Treat

The Cellar, on Ashcroft Lane, is holding a Summer Harvest dinner and wine tasting on the 30th of Fadewarm. Dinner will include a variety of grilled meats, fresh fruit and vegetables, cheeses, and breads and pastries. Our featured wine selections for the evening will include vintages from Galyn Wineries in Luminii.

All are welcome. Proper evening attire is requested. Reservations must be made in advance, please enquire at The Cellar.

The Cellar is currently seeking musicians and singers to perform at the Summer Harvest dinner and other upcoming events. If you are a performer and are interested in an audition, please speak to Vincente at our shop. Thank you.

Goblins Attack

On the 2nd of Meridian, the evening started like any other evening at the Crosswinds Tavern, just south of Dreven. Talking, drinking, plans for that late night rendezvous. The night's enjoyment was cut short by the arrival of several goblins of varying degrees of disagreeable and pungent aromas. What started as simply a ruined evening for the patrons quickly evaporated into a blood bath as the creatures in question decided to steal from Dreven's most popular tavern. Caring for nothing but their own selfish goal, they attacked and killed any who got in their way.

Fortunately, or unfortunately, the customers, even the wounded, took exception to having their hard won coins taken by force. They rallied together to defend themselves and eject the intruders. From kitchen utensils to bar stools, they forced the surviving goblins to flee with nothing but their skins. Our hearts go out to those defenders who died in the attack. Perhaps we should have the Crosswinds patrons protect our city!

Youngsters Catch Smugglers

Fadewarm seems to be proving ill luck for the unlawful. Smugglers responsible for moving Arborian luxuries into Dreven to be sold on the black market were thwarted by a pair of local teenagers. Robert Mallory, the grandson of the wealthy late Lord Eric Mallory and heir to his fortune, and his girl friend, Kiethry yen Sherakai, adopted daughter of Baron Streylan, discovered the smugglers' cache while on a summer picnic together.

"We were exploring some caves and stumbled across it by accident," sixteen year old Robert admitted.

"We fell in a hole and there it was," fifteen year old Kiethry added. "There wasn't anyway we were going to let the bad guys keep it!"

The pair of youngsters hid the boxes of illicit goods from the smugglers before climbing out for help. Even though Robert suffered a sprained ankle, he forced himself to fight his own pain to aid his young sweetheart, Kiethry, who suffered a major concussion from the fall. The smugglers were arrested by local authorities early the next day. The good-hearted young adults offered their reward to help the local poor.

Fish Arrives In Dreven!

Said to be per an agreement between a certain Dark Lord, who holds a manor in Dreven, and the Steward, wagons carrying barrels of fish arrived yesterday morning in the city. The barrels were escorted by knights safely along their journey and a treat was handed out by several, much to the delight of children, candy. The sweets were handed out freely and once the barrels of fish had been unloaded, both the wagons and the knights slipped off before night fall.

On a side note, every morning for the next two weeks the Anubis Manor in Dreven will be handing out freshly baked bread in the morning. Limit one loaf per family please.

Estate Sale!

Carriages, furniture, silverware, linens, books! All possessions of the deceased Edulf Ravelingway, acclaimed adventurer and author of the must-read book "O, The Places I've Seene," must go in order to pay for his funeral! Be the proud owner of one of his many collections. Choose from chamberpots, shoes, ladles, butterflies, nut shells, writing utensils, cow bells, and more! (Sales by appointment only. Contact Garland Fishman, Barrister, at Fishman and Fishman in Pike Street.)

Now Taking Donations!

Dwarven Hands, smithy shop which is located just outside of Dreven, and Black Cat Shipping and Loan are collecting donations and goods for the orphanage. Clothing, toys, and money donations are in need. Before the first frost comes, let us get ahead and ensure the orphanage is well stocked for the children!

Public Notice

On the morning of the Third Day of the Hawk, Fadewarm, it was discovered by staff of the Imperial Library that someone had broken into the building's Antiquities Wing. Though nothing of value has been reported as missing, suspects are still sought on the charge of trespassing. Should anyone have any information regarding this crime, they are urged to speak with the sergeant of the nearest guard station.

With Soothcool in full swing and the nights getting a bit colder the local Druid predicts sunny but cool days for the next tenday followed by a few rain showers. Stormy weather should stay away until Moonshare and give the farmers enough time to bring in the rest of the grain harvest. Time to drive the pigs into the forest to fatten them up for the winter!

Who's Who?

With Black Wolf Company, Silver Moon Knights and Dreven Guard about Shadokhan it can be confusing just who is who. Recently a possible fourth faction has been spotted traveling near Lake Turnan and around Dendry Hill. The seemingly well organized knights were seen near dawn departing the night before last from Dendry Hill and heading South in follow of the river. Who they are associated with is unknown at this time. Something upon the horizon?

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A Look Outside Shadokhan's Borders

Arborian Rustlings

Rangers - Rumor has it the Rangers are once again coming out of the Shadows. The so called Ranger Station, a very smart plot to avoid spending money in the local Taverns and Inns, is about to get a new face as its caretaker. It should be a welcome sight to finally see some mild-mannered and polite people here again, for sure it would be much more pleasant company than any of the other Elven Kin Dreven had to suffer though in the last year. We inquired if this change had to do with the rise of the Warlord and were informed the Brotherhood of the Rangers does not interfere in the internal problems of Shadokhan and will stay neutral on the subject.

Trade - With a successful summer and the promise of a mild Fall ahead in the Arborian lands, the Arborian Ambassador has informed the Gazette that the yield of wine and teas will surpass earlier estimates and with it comes the promise of a new trade agreement between the Elven nation and many of the other regions. It was pointed out to us that trade along the coastlines should go much smoother now with the third Arborian Warship ready to leave the dry docks by the end of Soothcool.

Deaths - A string of untimely deaths has struck numerous minor nobles in Arboria in recent cycles. While details are still being uncovered, it is known that the deceased all had strong ties to Balthazor. The recently deceased are: Lord Julian Case, Lord Philip Cage, Lord Harris Gael, Lord Aiden Matthews, and the Lady Lillian Bridge. The causes of death range from horse riding accidents to simple old age, but all of the recently deceased had drawn the ire of their fellow nobles in Arboria for their support of Balthazor in the rising conflict between the two regions. Their families could not be reached for comment.

Oceanuusians Making Waves

The long-awaited and much-celebrated 'Festival of the Spirit of S'osha' that was observed Meridian 28th through the 30th turned into a festival of surprises. Cycles (and considerable coin) went into the preparation of the Devvol-sponsored celebration, an event that was meant to open the doors of trade and cultural exchange with all regions on the mainland and, if rumors are to be believed, to whitewash the tarnished reputation of the Mer, who have been accused of slavery, drug-dealing, and exploitation of their 'reclaimed' half-siblings, the Half-los.

The Mer went all out. There were contests of every kind ranging from the playful to the martial; dancing, singing, dramatic performances, bardic recitals; swimming and wave-riding; outrigger, dolphin, and tortoise rides; shopping in The Splash; and enough food at the vendor's stalls to feed an army -- which turned out to be convenient, as that is exactly what appeared. Midway through the three day celebration, a sword-fighting contest turned into the abduction of the royal hosts, Princes Tahvanainen and Ulanen Devvol, youngest of the Devvol brood and rulers of the Southern Isles.

Stories vary, but it is rumored that their abductor was none other than Ashoken d'Allessair. Scaling the infamous 'Wall' from which the princes were watching the games, the brazen swordswoman whisked the princes away through a portal of shadows while accomplices in the crowd attacked and distracted the royal guards. While visitors and celebrants fled by any means possible, a virtual army materialized from the crowd and from the harbor, wildly attacking the Mer and any who supported them.

Fighting waged for several hours on both land and sea, until the princes were produced and threatened with their lives if the Mer and their allies did not cease and desist their violence. By midnight of the 29th of Meridian, the familiar crimson standard of the Pirate Nations was once again flying over the capitol city. And the man taking control? None other than the once-vanquished king, Aikiliano Bashar.

Rumors from Balthazor

Nekrolimani, Barony of Nekroli - The anticipated wedding between Nekroli Baroness Tristiana Mikkhal and Kamal, the self-styled Black Lotus, took a turn from love to tragedy last cycle. Sources close to the Lotus say that the Baroness took ill just after the bulk of the wedding ceremonies held beneath the great manse Ossua Mikkhal in a Reliquary dedicated to missing Archmagess Irmaa Vep.

The Bride was last seen by Lord Mayor Aidin Craxmullen in her wedding attire of deep forest green -- a color that represents growth amongst the death-loving Balts -- and in the company of her bodyguard, Dail Mennth, known to be loyal to the Black Lotus.

As the guests danced to the surprisingly bright and beat driven local music and sampled the local delicacies and wines, the Black Lotus, after mingling with guests that included the Lady Ciara Bronnagh representing the barony of Rainshadow; Baron Anton Malcus of Requim; Raphael Dolek, the embattled Steward of the Dreven; Baron Sherakai dan Rikash, also of Shadokahn; Lady Nadiya Gaylin, counselor to the Archon Keldon Baraeros of Luminii; and a surprise to all Prince Fyul Devvol of Hvannadalshnukur. Even the errant Captain of the Malcoven Guard, Ashoken d’Allessair was on hand for news.

As conspicuous were those not in attendance, most notably Soledaad Rourke of Padrical, and our ambassador to Shadokhan. "It is not surprising," one guest who asked to be anonymous commented. "The recent turmoil in several baronies, the shutdown of the Black Branch Fortresses that were under construction in many places, and the unrest that plagues the Sisterhood must be keeping her busy at home. No one has seen her for some time."

The missing Rourke, a sickly Mikkhal, Mer rumored to be watching the Balthazor coasts all have residents on edge. Some whisperings that the Arborian elves are to blame. Reports are unconfirmed at the time of this article but all fingers point toward trouble on the horizon. The nobles present kept their opinions on that to themselves. In absence of the signing of the final wedding contract that would give the Black Lotus the title and rights of Baron of Nekroli, the wedding is less than official. Guards were sent to inquire after the baroness' whereabouts. It was the groom himself who announced to those gathered that the baroness was indeed ill.

Speculation was heard on the part of some of the guests that perhaps she was not ill at all, but had changed her mind. When questioned, Lord Mayor Aidin Craxmullen of Etrauch City, who officiated at the nuptials, stated, "So far, the baroness has given her nobles the word that the Lotus orders were to be followed. They've worked well together and this union was desired by both parties. Unless she signs the contract, however, the Lotus will not be able to rule without her consent in Nekroli. He may appeal to the Baron's Council, of course, but until that contract is signed, the baron will be baron in title only." The Lord Mayor would answer no further questions on the subject.

"We all sincerely hope," Craxmullen said, "that the baroness will get well quickly. Our hearts go out to the Bride and Groom and we're all hoping it's merely wedding night nerves." Craxmullen smiled and left the reception shortly thereafter. Many of the guests opted to remain in town for the festivities to follow on 25 Meridian, and to await news of the baroness' condition.

Thermador

There are rumors that a lake has sprung east of the Rock of Duval. While this reporter has not ventured that far out into the desert to verify if this is fact, travellers visiting the taverns and inns in Wadi are reporting seeing a strange blue shimmer far in the distance that looks to be a large body of water.

News from Luminii

Trouble Along the Belanth - Caravans traveling through the eastern part of the Republic are having to hire on extra sword hands this summer. Since spring, travelers using the roads near the Belanth River have reported being attacked and robbed by what was originally believed to be an organized band of brigands. But the latest word from the region is that the brigands may in fact be part of a mercenary army.

Rumors are running rampant through the region as to what this army’s intentions might be. Meanwhile, the Silver Moon Knights have had at least one skirmish with the mercenaries, but as of yet there has been no significant response from either the Knights at Wantlokin, who are charged with patrolling the eastern part of Luminii, or from the Republic Army. The government in Damansque has issued a statement that the matter will be dealt with, but that in the mean time caravans and travelers should be particularly cautious, or avoid the area altogether.

Salt prices in Luminii rose again in the beginning of Soothcool, sparking a fresh round of protests from buyers…Farmers throughout the central part of the region are reporting bountiful summer harvests, in spite of some damage to crops in spring due to flooding and heavy rains...The town of Crabapple Hill has elected its first female mayor. Sadie Warburn ran a heated and bitter but ultimately successful campaign against her husband (and previous mayor) Aldo Warburn. No word yet on whether husband and wife are still sleeping under the same roof…Forecasters for the region are predicting heavy storms along the Luminii coastline in early autumn. Of course, they’ve been wrong before.

Cloosidian Update

Word from the mountains has arrived! It seems the new Archmage has finally decided to make himself known by sending ambassadors throughout the lands. It is said that the various main land regions can expect a visit not only from a human ambassador but also a feathered friend as well. "It is only proper for a leader to know what is going on in the lands surrounding his own, this can only truly be accomplished through communication and cooperation. It was only a matter of getting organized before our ambassadors were sent out," said Archmage Zorrel Sparfilt. Sources say that the ambassadors are strictly limited to discussing the issues of continuing to increase trade and travel through the land, there is to be no talk of the political powers that be in the mountain region at this time.

Wanted: Barley. Highest market value will be paid. Inquire at Riaua's Brewery Offices in Gray Dove Court.

Wanted: Gravedigger. Please see Mr. Walter Havinghurst at Thornmere Cemetary.

Seeking a Missus: 36 year old man of pleasant disposition, plain looks and plain speaking seeks a sturdy, biddable mate to share work on sizable farm. Must be able to cook and clean, take care of animals, do threshing and sowing, put up provisions. Prefer a young lady between the ages of 17 and 25. Leave application for Mr. Sudny Damphouse at the Boar's Head Inn. Please hurry.

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by Remus Vlad

Summer is gone and the leaves are finally turning golden and red. The earthy smell of fall is in the air and with it the promise of cold and chilly nights. Maybe this is why things are heating up in Dreven. Who wants to be caught alone in the coming dark nights?

Lover As Moody As the Sea

You may have noticed this young man by the smell of the sea that seems to cling to him or, let's be honest, it is really his large impressive staff that gets all the attention. Tall, dark, and handsome, he's worth looking at even without the staff. The wooden one, that is. Why, he even made the shy and polite Tendress Meiling swoon, and on more then one occasion, dear friends. Literally! On the terrible night Irmaa Vep and her foul pets invaded the Crosswinds Tavern (yes, that is where all the worst action happens) young (and tasty) Niko drained poor Meiling to the point of exhaustion. The young man was nice enough to later kiss Meiling all better.

A happy ending, you think? Oh, no. Moody as the sea, this man from Oceanuus promptly started looking for a new maiden to impress with his staff the moment word reached him that sweet Meiling was ailing from a very nasty case of a cold. Like a tidal wave, he swooped Ami Stoneheart off her feet and sucked her into his arms for some very heated kisses just the other night. Maybe it was the Suba? Or maybe he's just feeling his oats. Speaking of which, this reminds me of...

A Farm Girl Gone Wild

Does anyone recall rumors of an all-night party in Luminii after the very popular Sunshare Race? Whatever happened there brought the 'simple farm girl' Cait McGill out of her shell with a vengeance! After having been a hermit of sorts on her farm for ages, it seems that Cait's sowing her wild oats. Maybe in hopes of finally catching that elusive someone and settling down? And just who is that 'someone'? Maybe our readers can help identify that special catch.

Apparently Cait ran off to Thermador, but it is uncertain who her companion truly was. The only comment from Asa was that Cait was last seen leaving the Crosswinds with two men, one of them had facial scars and the other carried a staff. Sounds familiar? Our Suba-loving Niko has his hands and staff all over our Dreven women. With Cait still missing, one wonders if her good time ended in a kidnapping, or maybe the little vixen just wanted to cover up the fact that she eloped. And as long as we're talking about farmers, what about...

The Handsome Farm Help and the
Helpless Tender

Could it be that the Crosswind's Reena has finally has allowed somebody to chip away on her block of ice? She's been always a bit cool towards her male patrons. Who are we kidding? That woman is ice cold to most people. Talk about a chip on the shoulder... It took the patience and skills of the Luminiian farmer, Evan Lassiter, to finally break down the cold wall around Reena. Could be because he is used to dealing with stubborn things down at the farm. Last we heard, the two of them have moved in together, while Reena still insists they are not romantically involved. Sure, keep telling us no sparks are flying, still there was some...

Fire in the Air!

Baron Knowles sure knows how to heat the night up! This man needs to be handled with great care. Just the other night the traveler Lembic of Leng got a taste of the Thermadorian baron's hot temper. Never interrupt that man's meditations! Leng got a taste of the heat and would just not back away from it. Something is very odd about that one. Granted, the baron is nice to look at, but Leng should be careful. Westin's tastes tend to lean towards the Arborian kind. We will not soon forget the steamy kiss Westin shared with the elven bard, Xiph Snowmoon. Thankfully, things did not get out of control, because guess who was around to save the night?

The Major and His Lavender Lady

Here you thought the lady in question only likes to perfume the Fort and bake sweets for her Knights... Fooled again! The Lady has a bun in her oven! Soon our good Major will be hearing the sound of little footsteps running around at night, and leting the little lad or lass play horsey on his knee. Congratulations, Kirin! Way to snare yourself the handsome Knight. And ladies everywhere, let this be a warning to watch what you're drinking, because...

There's Something in the Water!

It is true, be careful if you drink the water in Dreven. Newlyweds Duncan and Cate Mallory are also expecting a little bundle of joy! Once regular faces at the local watering (ha!) hole, the two lovebirds have been conspicuously scarce lately. Clearly, they've been busy. Can't you just see Cate sitting in her parlor, doing up darling little baby things? And Papa Mallory must be hard at work building a cradle. So sweet and domestic! And while we are talking about keeping up appearances...

Fashion Alert!

Just when we thought the wave of ugly and outdated uniforms had passed with Justine Lannister switching her gear and Soledaad of Balthazor not roaming the Dreven streets at all, here comes a blast from the past. Cravideous Saerndakk, the devilishly handsome Solar Knight, is back in Dreven, and we caught him red-handed, wearing the most outdated black uniform. Where did he find that horrible old thing, anyway? Somebody please remind him that just because he has a dark cloud hanging over his head most of the time doesn't mean he can he can't keep up with the times! The Silver Moon Knights' dark blue tunic would really show off his ice cold blue ices. Set out a tip jar for the boy so he can buy a new uniform and save all our eyes! And speaking of old...

Some Like 'em Ripe

Brom Stoneheart's travels are extensive and his conquests many. Rich or poor; redhead, blond or brunette; statuesque or petite, he's tried them all. The man must finally have grown tired of the mindless chatter of youngsters. While we applaud his decision to finally find a woman older than 16 summers, he's really scraping the bottom of the barrel now. The man has no shame! What, you haven't heard? He kissed no other then the Balthazorian Archmagess, Irmaa Vep herself, and while she might look good on the outside, should we remind Brom that the woman is older then his own great grandmother? Maybe he still has female issues to work out. He is for sure losing the reins on his daughter, who has some serious...

Anger Management Issues

Nothing like a pair of sparring ex-lovers airing their dirty under things in the Crosswind Tavern. Ami Stoneheart and Tieryan Call had a few choice words and maybe more than a few drinks. Miss Stoneheart claimed that Call did not write enough while she was away. Maybe he should have enlisted the help of Xiph the Bard to help him pen a few love ballads, because his way with words isn't exactly romantically persuasive. Call finally had enough of the mud-slinging and stormed out of the tavern followed by Jinx the Elf. Even our Kirin Fand stepped out with them for a breath of fresh air, or so she claimed. Are we sure it was not to console her old friend? We all know...

The More the Merrier!

What better way to beat the cold than in the embrace of another? Better yet, a couple of others! For example, we have Akia Devlin, the owner of a local bakery, teaming up with Teg Ai'man and Nate with-no-other-name. Is it a two twosomes or a threesome? Do the boys share nicely? On the other hand, we have Havoc and Angel Sadani stealing off into the night with Ashoken d'Allessair. For sure it was not to talk about the most current fashion trends in Dreven. We all know the Lady Ashoken is more interested in shiny sharp things. Gotta wonder how that went. Has anyone seen the Darling Duo since that night? Were they both sporting all their limbs? While we are talking about shiny, we have found the worst Threesome of them all. Fresh out of the muck of the lake comes...

Tons of Fun

Who would have suspected that Irvin the (War) Golem has been hiding right under our very noses, resting deep in the mud of Silvermere? Asa's new hire, a young man going by the name of Lan, managed to free the gentle giant with the help of Dame Rowena Ereiash of the Silver Moon Knights, and Lan managed to get more then just a golem out of this deal. Dame Rowena spent the night with him after (or so they say) Lan sustained injuries during the excavation of the Metal Giant.

Lembic of Leng, another of Ereiash's bevy of darlings, must be eating his heart out. Not only did he get burnt by the fiery baron, but now he's got a golem and a handsome young pauper from nowhere standing between him and his pursuit of the pretty Solar Knight. Personally, I hope Lan triumphs over Lembic. Lembic just gives me the chills, and not the kind I want to keep.

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.