177 Cordor Press Archives

The Press Gang 25/12/177

Hello, hello! Chief Editor Alter here with another issue of the Press Gang! It seems like the final pieces are moving into play as the Amnian naval fleet has arrived in Cordor, led by Admiral Roman Tallyzar. But as tensions rise from overseas, it seems tensions are rising in the city as well, a bloody conflict taking the lives of three and injuring two.

A statement from King Edward Cordor has been released regarding the arrival of the Amnian naval fleet while Queen Jennifer Cordor met with the Republic of Guldorand for a diplomatic summit regarding recent incidents of tension concerning the city of Cordor and Guldorand. Staff Sergeant Lefric Ruston arrived to greet the Queen and the Republicans when a misunderstanding led to the prompt ban of armed Cordorian military personnel in Guldorand.

In Andunor, the election for the Devil's Table is still currently in place while Matron Luastra has announced the dissoulution of the Hel'vael House.

In other news, we have an interview with the very menacing guard, Arvalie, who is often seen patrolling the city. And for those interested in sailing, Captain Davis is looking to hire those interested in fighting pirates and slavers.

And last but not least, we have the continuation of "From Cordor with Love" from our very own Wildarse and an informational piece on how to find kelp for those aspiring chefs from Fee Sherman. And as always, thank you for reading the Press Gang and I'll see you all in the next issue!

ANNOUNCEMENT:
Statement from the Palace (By King Edward Cordor)

INVESTIGATIVE:
Bloody Conflict in Cordor (By Alter Kim)
The Guldorand Summit with Queen Jennifer Cordor (By Alter Kim)

INFORMATIVE:
The Monthly Catch (By Fee Sherman)

INTERVIEW:
An Interview with Arvalie (By Alter Kim)

ENTERTAINMENT:
From Cordor with Love CHAPTER IV (By Wildarse)

ADVERTISEMENT:
Captain Davis Seeks Sailors!

Day 27, Month 12 (Nightal), 177 AR
Alter Kim

Statement From the Palace

As some citizenry will already be aware, due to some unforeseen skirmishes in Maztika between New-Amnian countrymen and a few New-Whaterdeep invaders, the Grand Nation of Amn is entering a unsteady period with the City State of Whaterdeep. In this time of political uncertainty, our good friends from Amn have kindly requested that we play host to a small portion of its Navy, to better secure these waters, both for our sake and for theirs.

Further more, as Arelith has always been a stopping point between the Mainland and Maztika, safe port for men and women of all stripes, so it shall be for these fine men and women of the fleet. In the coming days you may see a heightened presence of Amnian military. Do not be alarmed. They are here merely as visitors and, I have been assured, shall mind their manners as such.

I also wish to assure the citizenry that whilst we consider Amn a fine ally, their grand wars are not our wars, and we have no desire to be dragged into them. So long as the Lords Alliance and it's allies remain neutral to Cordor, so we shall to them.

Day 27, Month 12 (Nightal), 177 AR
Edward Cordor

Guldorand Summit with Queen Jennifer Cordor

On the 15th of the 12th month (Nightal) 177 AR, the Republic of Guldorand hosted Queen Jennifer Cordor for a diplomatic summit regarding recent incidents of unrest concerning the city of Cordor and Guldorand, and to seek amicable solutions to several standing problems.

As the summit was concluding, Staff Sergeant Lefric Ruston and Corporal Cain arrived, unwarded and unarmed, to greet the Queen (who had already left) and the Republicans present, with Staff Sergeant Ruston introducing himself as Secretary of Foreign Affairs. After introductions were concluded, Secretary Ruston made a request for the meeting minutes to ensure a balance of information.

At this time, Sergeant Rolf Marr and Ambassador Antionette Rivorndir arrived. Introductions were made again with one of the Republicans hesitant at the presence of Lady Rivorndir's magic staff at her shoulder. The Republican was assured that the staff posed no threat to him.

Afterwards, Guardsman Vesryn Idriel arrived at the scene, misinformed that the Queen was in danger. He arrived with a spell mantle and Formian summons but was immediately ordered by Staff Sergeant Ruston to stand down as, "This is entirely wrong, dismiss the Formians and dispel, you look like an Andunorian" to which Guardsman Idriel complied.

At this point, the conversation between those present halted as the Cultural Minister of Guldorand expressed discomfort in being present in the presence of so many guards. The Cordorians were asked to leave to which they promptly did so. Staff Sergeant Ruston and the guards left the city of Guldorand and returned to Cordor.

Day 27, Month 12 (Nightal), 177 AR
Alter Kim

A Bloody Conflict in Cordor Town Square

On the 21st of the 12th month (Nightal) 177 AR, a bloody brawl took place in the Cordor town square after a heated argument erupted. Witnesses state that Christian Kalloron, paladin of Jergal, had been arguing with the tiefling, Artemis Silver-Wind, for her bloodline and worship of the archdevil Bel. At this time, Evemere Dundragon entered the town square and began to admonish Kalloron for his words towards Silver-Wind, before soon being joined by Tatsufura Reiko. The argument became more heated and insults were exchanged before Kalloron began to leave. Dundragon then thanked him for his display of character, in which is believed to be an act of provocation, to which Kalloron took offense to. He turned around, ward upon his blade, and in retaliation of the perceived threat, Dundragon and Reiko began to ward as well.

It was at this time that the guard, Sion, revealed himself and shouted at Dundragon and Reiko to stop warding. Reiko complied while Dundragon continued, later claiming to have not heard the command. The guard began to fire arrows at Dundragon, Reiko moving in to defend her which Kalloron intercepted. Blows were exchanged and Kalloron was subdued by Reiko as Sion continued to fire from a distance, killing Reiko. Dundragon stepped forward to help Reiko, unarmed, but was also shot and killed by the guard. A civilian by the name of Ravn, who later claimed to have been hit by an arrow of Sion's, fired upon the guard as well before being killed by him as well.

It is important to note that the guard, Sion, shot to kill with no attempt to incapacitate instead. Sergeant Thekla was present at the scene and commanded Sion to stand down, which he ignored. After the conflict concluded, the Sergeant then ordered him into the barracks which he continued to ignore, threatening the crowd that had gathered to disperse. Eventually, the Sergeant had the guard follow her into the barracks and the slain were successfully raised and healed.

The Press Gang reached out to both General Flamma and the Ministry of Justice for their statement regarding the events. An investigation has begun to look into the situation and no official punishment will be given until the truth is found.

The Press Gang also reached out to Christian Kalloron who declined to comment.

Day 25, Month 12 (Nightal), 177 AR
Alter Kim

An Interview with Arvalie

Alter: "So, Arvalie. Thanks for having me here. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself for those of our readers who have yet to meet you?"

Arvalie: "Oh, yes. We are being the Arvalie, a gloaming. We are also one of the soldiers of the Cordor, too. "We are being born in the underdark, but we have come to live in the land of the sun."

Alter: "What made you want to leave the underdark and live on the surface?"

Arvalie: "The Underdark is having the drow, it is also being like living in the sewers of the world. All of the bad things go there, the worst of the monsters and the most evil of creatures. But the surface is not like this- it is having many pretty flowers and trees and the forests smell good and the world is being free. The sky reminds us of this."

Alter: "Was there any event in particular that made you want to leave the underdark or just a culmination of living down there?"

Arvalie: "... Yes, the human we are loving is betraying us in the worst of ways. She is falling to the evil and accepting that she is the monster, we will not let this one be a part of the life we will live."

Alter: "Are you comfortable with sharing who this person is or should we continue on?"

Arvalie: "She is dead to us now, her name will be forgotten like the pain she causes to the world."

Alter: "Of course. And when you left the underdark and came to the surface, what did you do first?"

Arvalie: "The first time we came to the surface we sat on the hill in the rain and the dark, we sat here beneath the tree and listened to all of the things. It was beautiful, we think."

Alter: "Was there any particular sensation you enjoyed the most? Maybe a sound, a scent, or a taste?"

Arvalie: "It was the smell, everything was smelling... Nice, it was not like the pits of slaves or the rotting mushrooms, it was like the flowers."

Alter: "And after all of that, where did you go from there?"

Arvalie: "We visited the Bendir but we were too scared to go inside, there were many of the soldiers when we walked to this place. We walked around until we found the Cordor, one of the humans helped us to do this."

Alter: "What was your first thought of the city and it's people?"

Arvalie: "Oho... We had many of the funny thoughts, we thought that the tallest humans would be the ones who are being in charge. They must be the strongest ones, yes? But the Cordor was being very kind to us, it did not care we were coming from the dark places of the world. It was treating us as the person, giving us the chances to live free in the land of the sun."

Alter: "Heh, it must have been surprising to find out that the city was led by the shortest human. I'm glad you enjoyed staying here, I know a lot of people have enjoyed your presence as well."

Arvalie: "Oho... This is being the kind thing to say, but yes- we still do not know why the humans are building so high when they cannot reach the tops of their buildings. We think the dwarves are getting this right."

Alter: "And what did you do while you settled into the city? If I remember correctly, you fought against the underdarkers many times, correct?"

Arvalie: "Yes, we have killed many of the drow and many of the pirates. We are doing this with many of the other ones, it is making these hunts into the easy thing. They are being too brave and for this, they die."

Alter: "And eventually, you became a guard. What made you want to do so?"

Arvalie: "We did this because we wanted to be protecting the place the Mala was living."

Alter: "You and Mala share a special bond, yes? Like family?"

Arvalie: "Yes, we are being told by the gnomed one we can be picking family. We picked her and she was picking us, she is being like the younger sister to us."

Alter: "How has your career been with the guards so far? Do you enjoy working as a guard?"

Arvalie: "We have been enjoying our time with the soldiers, yes. They are treating us well and we are being able to keep the Cordor safe from the bad ones, we are happy with this."

Alter: "Do you plan to stay with the guards for a while? Maybe one day become General Arvalie?"

Arvalie: "Oho... We do not think we can be the general, this is not who we are being. But we will stay with the soldiers for the long time we think, we are not seeing any reasons why we would stop."

Alter: "Ah, a shame. I would love to see all the recruits and guards salute while calling you 'General Arvalie'. Do you have any plans or goals in the future outside of the guards?"

Arvalie: "Oho... We would like to have the salutes but this is not the path for us- We are being the house decorator and the artist, we like to do these things when we are having the spare time. Maybe one day we will become the famous artist."

Alter: "Oh, I'd love to see that as well. What kind of art do you create?"

Arvalie: "The paintings mostly, we are having some of these hanging in our homes and some of the others, too. We do the statues but less often."

Alter: "And what about when you're not on duty or working on your art. Is there any hobby or pastime you enjoy?"

Arvalie: "We like to do the sailing, sometimes we will go and explore the places but we are usually being the very busy one. It is only being when the sun is out that we are having time, which we spend in the bed or doing the art."

Alter: "Does your aversion of the sunlight make it difficult for you? Especially considering that most surfacers are out during the day and sleeping at night."

Arvalie: "Yes, the sun is giving us the challenges. When we first came to the land of the sun we were being burned by this often and would lay in the bed making the whining noises but we are getting better at avoiding this."

Alter: "Oh, yes. Please do avoid situations that would force you to lay in bed and make whining noises. Do you ever wish you could one day walk under the sun without any harm to you?"

Arvalie: "We would like to do this but we are glad for the time in the dark we are having, the day is being too bright even if it did not burn us... We do not understand why the people do not sleep during the day still, the night is being quiet and calm and nice, the day is not any of these."

Alter: "Mm, I think it's because most people can't see in the dark as well as you and I. They tend to bump around in the dark, like little kittens."

Arvalie: "Oho... The baby cats are being very cute, they are having our eyes too."

Alter: "Any plans for a pet one day? Maybe a cat or a dog. Or even a bird."

Arvalie: "We are having the pet already, it is being called the Beebles."

Alter: "Beebles? What kind of pet is Beebles?"

At this point, Arvalie reached into her dress and pulled out a rat, waving it towards me. The rat wobbled around, having accepted it's fate.

Arvalie: "The Beebles is the rat, he is stupid but this is being okay. We care for him anyway."

Alter: "Nice to meet you, Mister Beebles."

Arvalie: "We have had the Beebles for the many years now, he is being the good one."

Alter: "... How long does a rat live for?"

Arvalie: "We do not know, he is being maybe twelve of the years old now? So at least twelve of the years."

Alter: "Hm. Well, I think we should start wrapping up this interview soon. Do you have anything else you would like to talk about yourself or say to our reader?"

Arvalie: "Yes, we want to tell the people that sometimes bad things are happening. Sometimes they are walking the wrong path and things are not feeling good- It is not being too late for them to ask for the help, they can always ask this of us."

Alter: "Well said. And before we end it here, I would like to ask you one last question I always ask in my interviews."

Arvalie: "He can ask this of us."

Alter: "If you had to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?"

Arvalie: "The one word? This is being hard, the people are being many things. But we will pick... We will say that we are being fair, this is us. The fair one."

Alter: "In both personality and appearance."

Arvalie: "Oho..."

Alter: "Well, thank you for having me, Arvalie."

Arvalie: "We thank him for the questions, we are sorry if we are not giving the strongest of the answers. The common is not being our first tongue."

Alter: "I think the way you answer is unique to you. It is what makes you, you."

Arvalie: "It is being hard to do the poetic things in the common, but we are trying."

Alter: "Well, it's a good thing I'm not much one for poetry."

Arvalie: "We like this, sometimes we are being jealous of the ones who can speak the common well. It is helping them to be winning the hearts of the people, we think."

Alter: "Hm, maybe. To be honest, I think the way you speak is endearing."

Arvalie: "Oho... He is thinking so? We are glad for this, maybe this is why the people are laughing when we are saying we are the menacing one."

Alter: "Maybe. How did you learn common? Did someone teach you or did you study with books?"

Arvalie: "We were being taught most of this by the parents, we practiced some of this with the humans who were living below, too."

Alter: "What are your parents like, Arvalie?"

Arvalie: "Oh, they were being good at many of the things. They taught us how to be surviving on our own before we were the adult, they even picked our first name before we were old enough to decide we were the Arvalie."

Alter: "Can I ask what your first name was? And why you chose the name Arvalie?"

Arvalie: "Our first name was being the Trixis'narr, we chose the Arvalie because we liked the way it was sounding. It is being the pleasant word in our mouth, we think."

Alter: "Arvalie does sound nice. But it was a pleasure being able to speak with you and I think a lot of people will enjoy reading about you!"

Day 25, Month 12 (Nightal), 177 AR
Alter Kim

From Cordor with Love Chapter IV

City of Cordor, The Lilting Lotus Social Club, The Secret Underground Meeting Room
Eleasis 15th, 183 AR
09:30 PM

"Well then," the Doctor leisurely looked away from the doors, savoring the moment. "Enough talk. Here and now we will bring the entire archipelago to its knees!"
The Dr. Coincidence's pointing finger darted towards the wearers of the magical robes sitting nearby: "You there, establish a communication channel with the secret Axehold Accords meeting room! Immediately!" she demanded.
"Perhaps..." the Treasurer tried to intervene, but a quick glance from the Doctor was enough to tell him that it would be easier to get a badger to give way in a tight hole than to argue with her now.
The magicians began to cast a spell, and soon vague images began to appear in the center of the hall, which began to take on the outlines of furniture and people. Soon, those present began to distinguish fragments of individual phrases, and at the other end, still vague figures, began to turn towards the table at which the conspirators had gathered.
"The spell has stabilized, mistress," reported the senior sorceress as the vision took the form of a well-lit, luxurious hall with an expensive oak table in the foreground. The representatives of the Kingdoms of the Arelith archipelago were sitting at the table, surrounded by an army of guards. All the attention of the rulers was riveted to the figure of the Doctor.
"Charming," the Doctor replied to the wizards with satisfaction. Then deliberately slowly she turned towards the Axehold Accords. All the supreme rulers of civil governments were there: the Chancellor of Cordor dressed in gold and black, the High Sheriff of Guldorand in battle uniform, the Coronal of Myon in the traditional white and blue robes of the followers of Corellon. Looking closely at the picture, she also made out the Thane of the dwarves, clad in heavy armor studded with large rubies, and the Mayor of the Bendir Dale in an elegant emerald dress. She gave them a haughty look before she spoke.
"Gentlemen, my name is Doctor Coincidence," she said, baring her teeth at her involuntary listeners. "Soon, you may find that your Kings, High Councils, and even your precious Dragon," she glanced at the overly defiantly grinning dwarf in the crown, "might begin to implement policies similar to those currently pursued by the King of Cordor."
Before she could finish, the echo of a heart-rending scream caught her attention. "Oh no! Anyway," Dr. Coincidence thought smugly to herself as she turned back to the Accords.
Those sitting at the Doctor's table kept looking at her in anticipation, mentally patting her on the shoulder. Soon, much to the delight of the villains, the Doctor spoke again, riveting their attention to the truly priceless reactions of the members of the Accords.
The previously skeptical-looking representatives of the nations exchanged thoughtful glances. An alarmed whisper swept through the hall. Everyone has already heard about what happened in Cordor. Many expected that the hero of the occasion would soon appear.
"If this woman is telling the truth, we will be facing the threat of an archipelago-sized civil war," the mayor of the Bendir Dale mused.
Thane Greenfield of Brogendenstein couldn't help but notice the worry on her face. He leaned towards the hin as far as his armor would allow: "I can say three things with certainty, Nia. First, whoever this witch is, something drives her crazy. Secondly, she is not bluffing. And thirdly, we defeated more serious enemies in the past, - we will beat this one too!" he whispered smirking and gently pushing her with his gauntlet. Nia squinted her eyes to the side in embarrassment.
"Look, it looks like the witch wants to say something else, huh" he pointed to the illusion in front of them, which was an enlarged version of a statuesque woman with glowing eyes. She was holding some kind of animal, at the sight of which Nia nodded approvingly and even cheered up a little.
Indeed, Dr. Coincidence briefly enjoyed the effect of the opening speech and briskly continued the onslaught: "If you want to avoid such an unenviable fate, you will pay me one hundred million gold!" The little finger of Doctor's left hand had already begun to spontaneously wind the curls of her luxurious red hair.
In response, from different parts of the table came low whispers, languid mutterings and other sounds of gears unhurriedly spinning in people's heads. However, at that moment, a vague shadow wedged itself into the picture. The Doctor leaned slightly to the side, causing representatives of the Accords to see a gigantic apparition of a badger. Through thunderous snores of the beast they managed to hear spell-twisted snippets of "House...only for the last quarter...from the budget of Cordor...". Then the shadow disappeared as quickly as it had appeared before. The image of a woman once again turned her shining gaze to them. This time there was a hint of annoyance on her face.
"You will pay one BILLION gold," she snarled.
The hall instantly exploded with noise. There were accusations that the amount of the ransom was unjustified. Someone has already tried to bargain. Nia noticed how, taking advantage of everyone's confusion, the Sheriff of Guldorand barely turned his head, whispering to the dark green cloaked elven figure behind him. Nia blinked; the figure disappeared; the sheriff looked straight ahead again as if nothing had happened.
Greenfield sighed, stood up, took out a gun from under his desk and shot at the ceiling. A ringing silence filled the room. A small chunk of lime landed measuredly on the heads of the Accords to the accompaniment of crumbling bricks.
The Dwarf noted how the Doctor clung to her title. "The girl must have spent years at the Zhenta-folk Medical Academy, eh? She would not have allowed herself to be called simply MISS," he thought to himself, not bothering to pay attention to the people trying to take his weapon from him.
"Listen, DOCTOR Coincidence," he began soothingly. "It's not that we turned down your very sensible offer, but why do you need such a sum at all? There must be things much more interesting to you than gold" the dwarf was clearly cunning. "Tell us, what do you really want, lass"
A faint shudder ran across the Doctor's face. "What I desire, you and your kind cannot give," she replied dryly. The Doctor closed her shining eyes for a moment, visibly lowering the level of light in the hall. When the lighting again began to exceed the normal, steel notes were heard in the Doctor's voice: "You have. One. Week," she pinned the leaders of the settlements. "In seven days either I get the gold, or I'll take your whole world from you!"
"Moradin is my witness and my judge, - I wanted to settle things in a good way," the thane slowly straightened up and akimbo. "We have a local joke here," he began calmly. "Can a ram eat ten haystacks at a time?" he looked around the room rhetorically for an answer. "Of course he can, but who will give them to him?" he laughed shortly and loudly, looking directly into the eyes of the Doctor, who, judging by the changed color of her face, was about to burst into flames. "You won't get a coin, not a sin'le gem from us! How do you like that, MISSY?!" he roared and repeatedly fired at the illusion.
When the ripples on the surface of the Doctor's phantom ceased, her face had already returned to its usual pale hue. "So you have chosen death," came the Doctor's measured words. The beast in her arms snorted arrogantly. Then the mirage faded.
Dr. Coincidence exhaled loudly. Enthusiastic applause came from all sides. Many got up from their seats and already began to gather around their savior.
The Doctor raised her hand asking for silence. "Friends, comrades, remember this day, for it marks our victory!" she said solemnly, but nevertheless coldly. "And now," she pointed to the platform with the portal behind them, "I ask you all to be my guests. This ley will take you to my Laboratory. There we will begin the practical part of OUR plan," she summed up a little more enthusiastically.
Convinced that the cheering crowd was following its intended course, the Doctor turned to face the Treasurer, who appeared to be about to rush out of the room.
"I'll ask you to stay, my slippery friend," she growled low, forcibly turning him around with a single hand. "Who do you think you are? Greedy, puny, how did you even become the leader of your House? We still wouldn't stop what we started, but we could at the same time rob those dupes!" At these words, the Doctor's pet, nestled comfortably on her chest, squinted accusingly at the Treasurer.
She spat on the floor in annoyance, then pulled him close to her face. "Decide already - you are either with us or against us!" The badger hissed sharply, echoing the tone of his mistress. The Treasurer lowered his eyes, staring in horror at the wild animal.
"My eyes. Are. Up. Here," she strictly roused him.
"Make sure there's no trace," Doctor then nodded towards the room with the predatory fish, finally releasing the camisole of the purple-faced Treasurer. "And then go back to the lab, we have a lot of work to do," Dr. Coincidence said a little more calmly.
The half-orc swallowed nervously.
"Yes, Doctor," was all the Treasurer could manage.

***
"Wait, is that all? But what happened to Kitara and Hald? Were they eaten or not? You promised what you would say in the next chapter!"
Well, I didn't mention exactly the NEXT chapter, and yet if you really want to see Kitara and Hald again, you'll have to pay me... with your attention to Chapter V of the story!

Day 14, Month 12 (Nightal), 177 AR
"Wildarse"

The Monthly Catch - Tropical Mossfin, Kelpy Quandry

I hear a lot of people wondering where the best places to come across kelp are, as it has some value in cooking various tasty things. As most know, kelp grows in water, often in the ocean and sometimes in fresh water as well. And sometimes it gets snagged on your hook.

There is also a little known fish called the Tropical Mossfin which has green and kelp like fins. These fins can be harvested, if one is deft with a knife, and then can be used just like regular kelp. Neat!

By the name, it's clear that these watery creatures live in warmer areas. In fact, I myself have caught some of these on the jungle coasts around the Crows Nest.

Once again, I asked our local fishing expert, Haster the Fishmonger, for some insight into these peculiar pisceans.

He had this to say;
"Oy nah, yeah. Them be a right trek to catch, from 'ere anyway. Sure ya can catch 'em in the warm coastal waters. But jus' inland there's a nice swampy pool. Locals call it the Gulch. Loads o' the Mossfins in there. Jus' watch out fer lizard folk."

So there you have it, dear readers, the best place to catch some kelpy fish. Thankfully there are no kelpies on Arelith.

Day 23, Month 12 (Nightal), 177 AR
"Fee Sherman"

BREAKING NEWS: AMN RESPONDS TO WATERDHAVIAN NAVY

As many of you may have already seen, the Waterdhavian Navy has arrived in the fortress city of Guldorand. A fleet of twenty-five ships, five or six ship-of-the-lines, and two thousand soldiers are currently stationed in the city. Admiral Hornwynd of the Lords' Alliance claims that the force is only present to protect Waterdhavian interests along the trade routes to Maztica and to protect the citizens of Guldorand from Amnian aggression.

Our inside source confirms that the Amnian Navy is sending Admiral Roman Talazar with a fleet to size in response to the perceived aggression of the Lords' Alliance. Admiral Talazar is the prot g of Admiral Hern n, who sailed the Grand Ballena in the attack against Wharftown. The Amnian Council is also in direct contact with General Cordell of Maztica in hopes of bringing the Golden Legion, numbering at over six hundred legionnaires, to the Arelith isles as reinforcements.

Attempts at diplomacy have come to a standstill as the Lords' Alliance continues to ignore the diplomatic envoy sent from Amn. Additionally, an attempted breaking and entering of the Ambassador's quarters in the Amnian Embassy has taken place only a few nights prior. While the perpetrator is unknown and still at large, our inside source states that Admiral Hornwynd's reputation precedes him as a man who "gets the job done, come what way".

The arrival of the Lords' Alliance fleet is seen as an implicit threat to Amnian trade routes and an attempt to make a statement of force -- or war. The Arelith isles are seen as an important trade route as without the isles, any voyage from the Sword Coast to Maztica would be tenfold more dangerous and costly. As the Lords' Alliance had almost single-handedly funded the entirety of Guldorand during it's settlement, this is believed to be an agenda that has long been in the works, with the recent conflict in Maztica only serving as a farce to hide hostile intentions.

It is also believed that the Iron Throne will likely ally with the Waterdhavian Navy to protect interests in the city while the current stance of the Merchant Navy, who captains the flagship of Guldorand, is currently unknown. Finally, to end this report, the Press Gang leaves an excerpt from the interview with our inside source.

A: "... Do you think something like Wharftown will happen again?"

I: "... If you'd ask me that question last time we spoke I'd laugh it off as fear-mongerin'. Now? ...I ain't laughin'."

Day 13, Month 12 (Nightal), 177 AR
Alter Kim

The Press Gang 1/12/177

Hello, everyone! It's Chief Editor Alter Kim here with the latest issue of the Press Gang! Now, this issue may have been published a bit early but that's because the news we have for you today is that much more important. As some of you may have heard, there has been a massacre of New-Waterhavian settlers in Maztica, with over two hundred dead. You might be wondering what that has to do with the people of Arelith, but the reprecussions of this is something the entirety of the isles will soon feel. Read more about it in "Waterdeep Navy Sails for Arelith"!

Additionally, we have a submission by a concerned individual regarding the recent changes to the public space of the Cordor town square that many of the public seems to agree with. We also have an interview with our very own Gwendolyn Gallowmere, the magistrate of Cordor, and "Lady Silverhair" a drowess and follower of Eilistraee. Last but not least, we have the third chapter of "From Cordor with Love" by our lovely "Wildarse" and a new article on the rare Blink Carp!

INVESTIGATIVE:
Waterdeep Navy Sails for Arelith (By Alter Kim)

INFORMATIVE:
The Monthly Catch (By Fee Sherman)

LETTER TO THE EDITOR:
The Loss of Public Space (By Concerned)

INTERVIEWS:
An Interview with Gwendolyn Gallowmere (By Alter Kim)
An Interview with Lady Silverhair (By Alter Kim)

ENTERTAINMENT:
From Cordor With Love CHAPTER III (By Wildarse)

Day 1, Month 12 (Nightal), 177 AR
Alter Kim

Waterdeep Navy Sails for Arelith

Recently, there have been news that a community of New-Waterdavian settlers in Maztica were found dead with over two hundred Waterdavians killed in the bloody massacre. Open Lord Piergerion of the Lord's Alliance of Waterdeep has vowed that justice will be done upon the responsible once found. But the truth of the matter is that the city of Waterdeep is already fully aware of who is responsible for the attack. According to an inside source, this conflict is the latest in the territorial dispute of Waterdeep attempting to force their way into Amnian-held colonies. The Waterdavian people have been rallying up the Lord's Alliance for retaliation and the inside source confirms that the city is sending a huge part of their navy to the Arelith isles.

While this may seem inconsequential, the act has many ramifications throughout the isles. Half of the Founder's Council of Guldorand are representatives from the Lord's Alliance of Waterdeep and home to the Iron Throne, who owns the largest naval fleet around the Arelith isles at over twenty ships. On the other hand, the city of Cordor is allied with the nation of Amn and lacks any official naval force with the Leviathan rarely leaving the docks. Additionally, our inside source confirms that the Amnian naval forces' presence is nowhere as prominent as it had been in the past. Tensions have been high between the city of Waterdeep and the nation of Amn, and there are even whispers that war may break out with the isles of Arelith as the battlefield.

Day 1, Month 12 (Nightal), 177 AR
Alter Kim

The Loss of Public Space

As many of the people of Cordor may have noticed already, on the tenth day of Uktar the furnishings of Cordor square had all been taken away. The only thing left behind was a sign promoting the Rivorndir mystery ball and a sign by Lady Hannah Stormwind. Lady Stormwind stated that she had been tasked with the reorganization of the public space and had removed all of the furnishings to the corner of the barracks. She plans to have eight statues built to decorate the public square instead, one of the king, one of Cordoria, and six of "emotions or virtues".

Now, I am all for the occasional re-organization of the square. No one wants the public space to be cluttered with outdated signs and whatnot. But to take every furnishing, some that have been donated to help the people of Cordor and newcomer adventurers alike, to make room for eight statues seems a bit too much. And if reorganizing the public space is the goal, shouldn't public opinion be an important factor of the project as well?

Already, I've seen many people complain about the removal of the tent stall that acted as the only protection against the rain in the square. The chair and desk that has been the site of many business deals and guard recruitment has gone missing as well. Not only that, signs and boards belonging to the Trade Ministry have been taken by Lady Stormwind as well. While the idea behind the renovation is respectable, the execution is a bit... sloppy.

Also, Lady Stormwind is a new recruit to the guards and a newcomer to the city. While I applaud her desire to better the city and her initiative in proposing the changes, I wonder if she alone is the best fit for this task. Many of the furnishings that were taken have quite the history and attachment to many people that someone new to the city would not understand. The aforementioned chair and desk was placed by one of the previous chancellors and have remained in place for over a year. The stall was the site of the Goldenhorn business, one of the most prominent businesses in aiding newcomers and veterans alike.

Instead, the space is to be taken by statues. I do have to wonder, is that really the best use of the public space? Statues are nice and all but lack a functional purpose to aid the public. Wouldn't the city hall or the museum be a better spot for these statues? Instead of barrels offering supplies to adventurers, locations for businesses, and shelter from the rain, are we to stand about in the square looking at statues?

But I've written enough. I think many people share my sentiment. Ask around and you'll hear the same from many. I hope the government takes this chance to try and ascertain what the public wants before attempting to implement any drastic changes. If any of you agree or disagree and wish to share your sentiments, please contact the Chief Editor, Alter Kim, and he will let me know!

Day 26, Month 11 (Uktar), 177 AR
Concerned

An Interview with Gwendolyn Gallowmere

Month 5, Day 2, 177 AR

A: "So Miss Gwen, thanks for agreeing to be interviewed today! Is there any particular reason you accepted?"

G: "Oh-Uh. Nope."

A: "Heh, well thank you anyways. So, you act as the legal aide to the Justiciar. Is there any particular reason you wanted the job?"

G: "When I first got here, there was a guy murdering people, right? That OV guy. Well, he dropped two bodies on me while I was returning from writ-work, and the guard thought I was involved and they got real mad and angry at me. Suppose when I heard there was a job open, I wanted to make sure innocent people weren't getting blamed for things like that."

A: "So you're looking out for the little guy... figuratively speaking."

G: "Sorta. Kinda. I also firmly believe that people who do commit wrong-doings should be punished properly. And I get to learn and see all sorts about the history of the city, that's a bonus."

A: "I was there when you recited the legal codes to Thomas to prove your worth. I have to say it was quite impressive. Did you spend a lot of time reading legal codes even before becoming an aide?"

G: "Yep! I remember everything as it happened, Nana said it was a gift. So learning the written word is really easy when there's a bookshelf full of laws. And, y'know. Ignorance of the law isn't an excuse to break it, which happens often.."

A: "That must be a very useful gift in your current occupation. What about your previous occupation? What did you do before becoming a legal aide?"

G: "Freelance Clown, duh- Traveled with my family performing, came here alone because Nana said it was a good place to learn more."

A: "Do you ever miss your old job?"

G: "Still do it, just don't do it with my pin on."

A: "Ah, really? You must be busy with two different occupations."

G: "Mhm, took a job with the Clover. Gonna perform there sometimes. I miss doing it constantly, but it really takes a considerable amount of effort to appear unphased and optimistic constantly."

A: ?What about when you're not working as a legal aide or elsewhere? Is there anything you like to do in your free time?"

G: "Hm, no, don't think so. Most of my free time is spent reading the history of the isles. Sometimes I walk in nature, but that's about it."

A: "What about food and drink? Is there any particular food or drink you like to enjoy when things get tiring for you?"

G: "Oh, I'm super boring. There's nothing better than simple spring water. But food, I don't know about that one."

A: "You don't have a type of food you like? Maybe a childhood dish or something new you tried?"

G: "I'll eat anything, couldn't be fussy in Chondalwood. If we were eating grubs and worms for dinner, that's what we got."

A: "Can you tell me a bit about Chondalwood? I'm somewhat of a newcomer from the far east so I'm not too familiar with the place."

G: "Oh, it's a real big forest in the interior of Faerun. Full of satyrs and treants and wild elves. See, my Nana is a Ghostwise, so she was born there proper. I don't really know what a Ghostwise is, but I know I'm not one."

A: "You mentioned your Nana quite a few times. She must be someone important to you. Can you tell us a bit about her?"

G: "Mhm, she's super important! She was a councilor, and she was the best shadow dancer I've ever seen!"

A: "And what about friends? Do you have someone you consider as your closest friend? Someone who has always been by your side?"

G: "Oh, no. Not really. I guess, people here are friendly.. I guess Flamma is a friend, he's real nice to me always for no reason. Think I put some people off, they take everything I say too seriously."

A: "Hmm, really? Maybe the reputation of being a legal aide can be intimidating for some. Do you feel people treat you differently since you joined?"

G: "No, don't think so. Maybe that's half the problem, they don't get that Mischief is just an act. It's all just jokes, right? I don't actually think hins are all shoeless weirdos, but it's funny to say it. And when that kinda joke comes directly from a hin? That's like, a double punchline."

A: "I get what you mean. Tell us about Gwen then. If you had to describe Gwen in three words, what would it be?"

G: "Three words? Uh- Sarcastic. Diligent? Aaand.. Studious."

A: "Now let me ask you a hypothetical question. If you had to describe an ideal day, what would the day be like for you?"

G: "Oh, any day that a carnival is going is the ideal day. The music and the fun and the laughter, nothing beats that."

A: "Is there any particular attraction you like most?

G: "I'm usually performing at those, so I'm biased to say the stage."

A: "Let's talk about the future now. So currently you work as a legal aide and performer. Are you content with where you are right now or is there a bigger position that you are aiming for?"

G: "It'd be nice to keep working and become a full fledged Magistrate. But I'm pretty content with my station."

A: "What about your legacy? In times to come, what would you like to be remembered for most?"

G: "Ooh, a legacy? No, don't really think about that. I've no illusions about myself, I'm more than likely going to be forgotten by time, that's fine with me. Oh, I'd also like to work with the King directly, to get that kinda station would be both memorable AND exciting."

A: "Ha, I don't think that's something that could be forgotten. But every big thing starts small! Let's take a peek into the daily routine of Gwen-"

A: "When you wake up, do you have a morning routine you like to follow?"

G: "Well, skipping over boring things like washing and eating, I usually head straight to the library first thing. I can normally find a book for studying, then I see if Thomas or the Guards need anything."

A: "Do you study a book a day?"

G: "Usually, yeah."

A: "What's today's book of study then?"

G: "An Elven Phrasebook. Likely to be my book for a while, at least until I learn the language."

A: "Any particular reason you chose to learn Elven?"

G: "Seems to be one of the most spoken languages here, and considering how many wild elves I know back home, it makes sense to learn it properly."

A: "And what about a bedtime routine? Anything you like to do to wind down for the day?"

G: "Usually offer a prayer to Brandobaris, and thank Tymora for another fortunate day."

A: "Well, that's pretty much all the questions I have for you today. Before we end though, is there anything you would like to say to the readers?"

G: "Hm. I don't think so. I haven't got much in the way of grand statements, maybe just, there's nothing wrong with not being good at everything. Sometimes it's best to just be comfortable with yourself, most things kinda fall into place when you think like that."

A: "Well, thank you for agreeing to be interviewed today. I think a lot of people would be interested in reading about you!"

Day 11, Month 5 (Mirtul), 177 AR
Alter Feith