186 Cordor Press Archives
Vampire Attack: Lucretia's Return?
By Madeleine Orlin,
Editor-in-Chief of The Cordor Press
In the dim hours before dawn on the 26th of Ches, 186, fear crept through the city as a woman calling herself Valangh (presumed to be Lucretia the vampire) emerged once more, luring a city guard with a report of a body in the streets. Once successfully cornered, she fed upon the guard, and left them near death in the streets, where before they passed out from extreme bloodloss, they made the following observations.
The eyewitness describes a tall figure, with crimson eyes, dark brown hair and unblemished pale skin. Upon one of her fingers she wore a gold signet ring engraved with a silver chalice overflowing with blood. Interestingly, they also say that the vampire was adept at divine magic - and had summoned three wraiths about herself. Their presence alone is cause for alarm - wraiths are not mere spirits, but lingering echoes of torment given form, their touch draining the life from the living.
The brave guard thankfully was able to make it to safety, where they have been tended to, and appears to be making a full recovery.
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If this is indeed the return of the vampire Lucretia, citizens are urged to Remain Indoors at night, particularly those who bear noble blood within their veins. If this is impossible, please consider the following forms of defense:
Seek Shelter Near Deep Running Water
- Vampires traditionally struggle to cross deep, flowing water - though small streams may be ineffective. Homes near rivers or fortified against access points may provide some protection.
Wear Holy Symbols
- Those devoted to their faith may find defense in religious insignias. Holy symbols, especially those consecrated by a cleric, are known to ward off supernatural threats.
Garlic
- The effectiveness of garlic is debated. While some swear by its repellent properties, others dismiss it as mere superstition. If uncertain, layering defenses - holy symbols, deep water barriers, and strategic caution - remains the most reliable course.
Mirrors
- Some folklore suggests vampires lack reflections. Placing mirrors strategically may help detect their presence or ward them off.
Holy Water
- Sprinkling consecrated water on doorways or carrying vials of it can serve as a potent defense.
Silver
- While more commonly associated with werewolves, silver has been known to disrupt supernatural creatures, including vampires. Silver weapons or jewelry may offer protection.
Wards & Protective Circles
- Some cultures use salt lines, iron barriers, or magical wards to prevent supernatural entities from crossing into protected spaces.
Stake Through the Heart
- The most definitive method - though not exactly a casual precaution. Wooden stakes, particularly those made of hawthorn or ash, are said to be effective.
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Above all, vigilance is key. If sightings of Lucretia or her wraiths persist, citizens are urged to report them immediately.
Day 4, Month 4 (Tarsakh), 186 AR
Madeleine Orlin
Ginny Rivorndir (Pt. 1)
Madeleine: Well, first of all - thank you very much for agreeing to an interview. You are something of a local legend around these parts - your artwork dons the Gallery, and your book is a fascinating read. I must admit to being something of a fan from afar.
Ginny: Ah, you have read my book? All too often do I ask whether people have read it, and am met with a response along the lines of: 'You have written a book?'.
Madeleine: I have, I found the part about Keys quite compelling actually. What lead you to writing it?
Ginny: I actually explain my reasoning in the final chapter. The short of it is... The power hungry find ways to arm themselves with the skills they need to succeed in the political arena. Yet goodly individuals naturally shy away from these methods. They step into the arena ill-equiped for the fight, and bite the dust before their more ruthless opponents. Look around the world, and in positions of power one all too often finds would-be tyrants, despots in search of personal gain rather than the well-being of the people under their care. My book aims to shed some light on the methods of power, for those who are not naturally inclined toward obtaining it.
Madeleine: Well, it's an incredible read. But, I'm interested a little in your life prior to Chancellor, and marriage. I believe you weren't always a Lady, is that correct?
Ginny: Oh now, you know your history, madam Orlin. I would say -most- people in Cordor today no longer recall that I arrived here a commoner. But... Which part of my life prior election are you interested in specifically? I arrived in Cordor at twenty five you know. Elected Chancellor three years later.
Madeleine: That's very young to take office. I suppose I'm curious what led to that decision. As you said earlier - I'm a bit of a fan of history and seeking the lesser-told areas, so whilst you have extensive coverage on your time as Chancellor, and from your Treason trial - not so much is said of the woman herself.
Ginny: Well, if you know of the treason trial, you will probably also know that Cordor was left without much of a government afterwards. So someone had to step into the power void left behind. There was no obvious candidate except the person who had united Cordor against its previous government. The woman who had exposed the corruption and malice within that government. Me. There was... one meeting in the square. It was with a relatively new scribe of the ministry of justice... Thomas Castemont was his name. We spoke of the future. Of what would come next. Before that point I'd planned to leave. Sail elsewhere, away from it all. But that conversation made me see - the best path forward for Cordor would be me stepping forward to claim the Chancellorship. It was almost two months before an election really could be called. But as soon as I'd made my intention to run known, the remaining members of government turned to me as the assumed next leader. I recall when the election finally did come around, I had -one- real opponent... Riza Beoluve. Beoluve had previously been accused of involvement in a large treasury theft, prior the election of Chancellor Providence, in 174 AR. I'd made it known I would be arresting her on the suspicion, should I be elected. So, on the day of the results, she disappeared. She has to my knowledge never been seen again. And that is how I ended up Chancellor of Cordor.
Madeleine: Your time was not without troubles, though. We touched briefly on Chancellor Minto earlier. I believe you ruled for a time, before he took over, in some manner of power grab if I recall my history well. Can you explain a little about that?
Ginny: Minto was Mayor of Bendir Dale for a time. We were... friends, at least I thought so. Then, he retired from Bendir Dale and joined us in Cordor to be closer with his handfasted, Griffy Cloudsteppe, who was an officer in our guard. Minto was given some ministerial position... I forget which. Something with books. Anyway, at the time I was expressing signs of fatigue. And so they rather eagerly suggested Minto might be willing and able to be my successor.
Madeleine: A sort of passing of the torch?
Ginny: I initially accepted this. Yet then they began drafting ideas for curbing my family's influence. Notions like limiting the number of properties noble families could hold and the like. Minto came to the family to present his plans, and fell apart before Lord Aldros and Lord Khara'gos' lines of questioning. It turned into a rather hostile affair. Minto, on Griffy's suggestion, decided then to start the election the moment I'd gone to rest for the day. Without first conferring with me. I woke up to being thrust into a hostile election against someone I thought had been my friend up until then.
Madeleine: A rather underhanded tactic.
Ginny: Their turn against my family made it quite impossible for me to step back from said election, and so... It became one of the dirtiest elections I have witnessed in our city. The dirtiest in fact. I lost. The city was flooded with scorned houses who'd returned in the tendays leading up to the election. It was an attempt at grabbing power, to be sure. The very day after I'd lost, I'd received an anonymous wisp from someone claiming to know of a plot to overthrow me.
Madeleine: But their tenure did not last very long, I think?
Ginny: In exchange for some coin, I received a copy of several communications apparently copied from the Harper internal communication board. While the names were redacted, they contained very personal information I'd shared only with a select few people. I narrowed one of the agent aliases down to Griffy Cloudpaw with ease. Said information also confirmed to me that the communications were genuine. Too many specifics to have been an invention. Correct specifics, at that. The communications outlined the Harpers' opinion that the Rivorndir family were a danger to the city and should be ousted. It felt like... betrayal, given Griffy and Minto were... Well, among my friends, or so I'd thought.
Madeleine: Harpers are of course, one of the King's declared enemies, due to them attempting to murder his Queen.
Ginny: Yes, now they are. They weren't back then. I will admit the King asked me for advice prior to banning the Harpers from the city. My ordeal with Minto and Griffy... Well, it led me to advise in favour of the ban.
Madeleine: Quite understandably! But, you managed to win back your position, after this.
Ginny: Perhaps this was... ill considered, as Chancellors since have used this ruling as a stick to oust voices vocal in opposition to their rule. Minto's government faltered. It was full of optimism for a few months, and then infighting and the loss of dedication from his fair-weather supporters began to cause issues. Minto made rather unpopular moves, squandered six million of the treasury's coin, removed Kossuth as a state faith, replacing Him with Yondalla. This was viewed as an abuse of power. We are not Bendir Dale, and we have always had a great number of Kossuthans. His government prosecuted the Vhaire family, a prominent house at the time. And well... One day, seven months in, Minto and I met here at the press... And... He was assassinated, I kidnapped by the attackers. Underdarkers. Thomas was elected after this. A popular and stable choice.
Madeleine: How horrific for you, your Ladyship. I'm glad to see that you managed to find a way out of the predicament.
Ginny: So am I.
Madeleine: Reflecting on your tenure as Chancellor then, what principles or strategies do you believe are essential for ruling effectively and enduringly?
Ginny: Ah, very different matter, hm? Alright. Away from history then, and to best practices. Chancellors are best in the role of mediator. They should keep themselves -out- of infighting, at least in the public eye. Delegating duties and religiously enforcing the hierarchy of communication is important. Everyone always wants to talk to the most important person in the room. The trick is... Turning people with questions of justice to the ministry of justice, questions of military matters to the commander of the guard, questions of diplomacy to the diplomats. And -never- stepping in to go over their heads.
Madeleine: Even if you believe they are wrong?
Ginny: I have spent major crises inside, drinking tea, because I had people I could trust whose toes I had no need to step on. One either trusts their selected ministers and commanders, or not. Cherry-picking decisions breeds animosity, insecurity, uncertainty, lack of confidence in said ministers and commanders. It is a mistake that kills stable governments.
Madeleine: What advice - if any - would you offer to the current leadership of Cordor to navigate the challenges of governance in these times? Particularly in relation to the Minmir threat, and the tensions with Myon.
Ginny: I cannot offer specific advise. I do not know the details of the present challenges, and have no desire to learn of them. I seek to be a guide to the up and coming nobility, on the principles of good governance. More specific case-by-case advise from me ...Well, no one needs this. Cordor should have the confidence to move on, rather than fall back on the words of a resigned former Chancellor who spends most of her time overseas.
Day 4, Month 4 (Tarsakh), 186 AR
Madeleine Orlin
Ginny Rivorndir (Pt. 2)
Madeleine: How has your time away from Cordor influenced your perspective on leadership and governance? Has it changed at all?
Ginny: Not really. I still believe Cordor's system of government is... for lack of a politer word... Daft. I expressed this in my resignation letter. This perspective has not changed.
Madeleine: Looking back, are there moments during your tenure as Chancellor and later as Treasurer that you cherish most - perhaps quiet victories or grand accomplishments?
Ginny: My proudest moment was my opportunity to address Princess Alusair Obarskyr, Steel Regent of Cormyr, at the close of the Lords War. Though the moments I cherish most? Watching the city heal from past wounds, and grow to new heights under my leadership. The rebuilding of the guard after the 176 government collapse comes to mind.
Madeleine: The Lord's War - would you be able to remind me of the year?
Ginny: Basically all of 178 AR. The leadup was in the later months of 177, with war being declared quite early into 178... The exact dates can be found on the board of my Lords War exhibit in the museum. The war was brought to a close with the signing of Marsember Accords... Which... Happened on the 28th of Uktar, 1378 DR.
Madeleine: Are there places in Cordor - be it a street, a hall, or a hidden corner - that hold special significance for you?
Ginny: In Cordor? Oh, there are a few. The court of justice, for that is where my legacy was established... My home, the Rosen Estate... A few others, but those two would be the main ones.
Madeleine: You've mentioned before Lord Thomas Castemont - who were some of the individuals that left a lasting impression on you, shaping your perspective or leadership style in perhaps unexpected ways?
Ginny: Hm, well, obviously Thomas Castemont's at the top of the list. Then... my cousin Lord Aldros Rivorndir, who taught me how to be a noble and a leader. Providence, who taught me friendship. Mar angel de la Toledino... Who supported me in my early years. Juniper Oakley, who helped me move on from possibly the greatest blow I ever suffered. There are others. Lord Khara'gos, of course... Narr Nolkus... My husband, Dax.
Madeleine: Thank you. Finally, is there a piece of advice or wisdom from your days in Cordor that you find yourself returning to, even now?
Ginny: Dangerous question, that. There's a fair few... Ah, for lack of a better word... 'Ginny-isms' people might not appreciate quite in the way I intend them. I'll dare burn my hand on an example, shall I? Very well. 'Never kill anyone you have leverage over'. Perhaps not as wholesome as one might like, but... well, like I said when we touched on my book. Success in the game of power requires a certain degree of... ruthlessness.
Madeleine: That concludes our interview - thank you, again, for agreeing to it - I hope you've found it enjoyable?
Ginny: Certainly. I will admit, I enjoy talking about myself, I appreciate you indulging me a little.
Day 4, Month 4 (Tarsakh), 186 AR
Madeleine Orlin
Mystery of Skaljard's Eclipse Ritual: The Infertility Curse
I recently had the great honour of attending a moot hosted by Azalin Blackcloak, the Arcane Tower Steward. During his lecture, unsettling revelations emerged regarding the lingering effects of the ritual conducted during the eclipse nine months ago on the isle of Skaljard.
Scholars, researchers, and arcane specialists gathered as Blackcloak detailed the far-reaching consequences of what many are now calling a "ritual of unmaking" - a curse so potent that it continues to reshape the very fabric of life across the isle.
As far as all reports go, the mysterious ritual was performed during an eclipse on the isle of Skaljard. Conducted at the legendary Erinstones site reportedly by a banshee tied to the Dark Seldarine deity, (known as the Revenancer), the ritual employed an obsidian orb inscribed with the divine symbols of Chauntea, Sune and Lathander, as well as potentially a fourth completely destroyed rune; seemingly designed to unravel the natural cycle of life itself. All deities upon the orb are linked with the rebirth aspect, and so it is speculated that the mysterious fourth may be either a deity linked with these (such as Selune) or entirely opposite, given the nature of the ritual.
Soon after this event occured, abyssal disturbances plagued Skaljard, Guldorand, and the Whidershins. Strange green lights have been seen in the sky in the Skull Crags, accompanied by ominous chanting and an oppressive atmosphere that suggests a weakening veil between planes. Researchers warn that such events are often the residue of immense and terrible forces being unleashed.
More concerning, however, is the long-term effect on populations. Unlike traditional curses, which typically require specific conditions to take hold, this one pulses anew with every moonrise, erasing unborn embryos before conception or during gestation. Humans are the most affected, followed by dwarves, hin, and there's even been some instances found in goblins. Strikingly, elves remain untouched - whether due to divine protection from Corellon or a deliberate aspect of the ritual itself remains unclear.
During the Tower discussion, Blackcloak highlighted a peculiar discovery: Opal's Elixirs, specifically those containing elf blood, appear to resonate with the curse in a unique way. Rather than functioning as a general restorative, the elixir only interacts with individuals already afflicted, suppressing its effects temporarily. This phenomenon has sparked debate among scholars, with some hypothesizing that it briefly imparts the elven protection upon the user. However, the exact mechanism remains unknown.
Efforts to break the ritual's ongoing cycle are underway, as continued exposure could have significant societal implications. Specialists are working diligently to contain the spread and uncover a lasting solution. At present, the curse reactivates each night, meaning conventional remedies such as Remove Curse offer only temporary relief. Finding a method to fully nullify its effects is imperative.
Adding further intrigue to the investigation, reports indicate that operatives of the Eldreth Veluthra - an organization notorious for its hostility toward non-elves - have been sighted recently in Myon. While their involvement in the unfolding events is speculative, their known willingness to collaborate with Underdark factions raises concerns about possible connections to Dark Seldarine worshippers.
With research ongoing, authorities urge vigilance but caution against panic. The path forward demands careful study, collaboration, and swift action to ensure that the curse is halted before its impact deepens further. The Cordor Health Ministry is currently offering free check-ups to all citizens, as well as advice and comfort during this troubling time.
by Madeleine Orlin,
Editor-In-Chief
Day 15, Month 2 (Alturiak), 186 AR
Madeleine Orlin
Interview: Karolia Brandt
Few figures are as emblematic of public service and unwavering dedication as the Minister of Health, Karolia Brandt. Known for her no-nonsense approach to policymaking and her deep connection to faith, Minister Brandt has become a well known and curious figure in Cordorian politics.
I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with her to discuss the intersection of spirituality and governance, as well as her vision for the future of health in Cordor.
---
Madeleine: Firstly - thank you for taking the time today to allow me to interview, I imagine you have a terribly busy schedule, so I really appreciate it.
Madeleine: I believe you first started as Minister for Health in Guldorand, and then switched to Cordor. What first inspired you to pursue a career in public health, and how has that path evolved over the years?
Karolia: I do not necessarily pursue a career in public health. The role of my Faith is to be the negotiators between the Bleak Winds and Mortals. Whilst this role can be embodied as merely Priesthood, I saw the opportunity to assist in an institutional way as well.
Madeleine: Do you see your role as Minister for Health as an extension of your devotion to The Pale Maiden, or do you view them as separate callings?
Karolia: To not admit their connection would be disingenuous. However, I believe my participation in this institutional role is not an extention of my Faith. Rather, my Faith has made me uniquely well-equipped and prepared for this institutional role.
Madeleine: How does the worship of The Pale Maiden shape your perspective on health, illness, and healing?
Karolia: This is a... wide question, I shall try to be brief, and most likely fail. What we refer to as Bleak Winds are the triad of phaenomena we summerize as Malady, Poison, and Blight. Most religious element in the Pale Maiden's Faith come as three - three Sacred Beasts, three Holy Substances, three Bleak Winds, etcetera. The existance of the Bleak Winds predates the worship of the Pale Maiden. Malady, Poison, and Blight are part of Creation - an explicit design from the Intelligence which forged our world, and indisputable part of the order of the Cosmos.
Madeleine: In your view, does Her influence align more with prevention, acceptance, or transformation in the face of disease - or, in light of the previous answer - perhaps all three?
Karolia: In that sense, the Faith which I represent, which is a majority branch of the Church of the Pale Maiden, calls Her 'Shepherd of Bleak Winds' - we see Her as the pastoral-carrying maiden who takes care of the rambunctious lot that the Bleak Winds are. In absence of the Shepherd, the Bleak Winds ride wildly in the world - untethered, in disorder. It is only by the Pale Maiden's administration that they are given rhythm, reason, predictability. Since they are part of the order of nature, they cannot just be -removed- from Creation. However, the Pale Maiden regulates their liberation upon the world - giving them seasonal nature, or causes which produce their emergence upon the tangible Realms. When a Bleak Wind is released, all Mortals are given two choices. Both are honourable, respectable: to seek protection underneath the Pale Maiden's blessing, or to challenge their own Strength, test their mettle against the Bleak Wind. My Clergy exists to make this choice 'tangible'. The Maiden teaches us to educate the people, predict maladies, offer protection, or offer a road for self-challenge. We offer guardianship to the Weak and grant ordeal to those who wish to be Strong.
Madeleine: Thank you. On that note, then, are there specific policies or initiatives in your ministry that are directly inspired by the teachings or philosophy of The Pale Maiden?
Karolia: Knowledge, upon which to enact prevention. Arelith is a unique island, with innumerable methods of healing. Therefore, I believe that the role of the Ministry is that to obtain the necessary knowledge to predict the arrival of the Bleak Winds, and offer protection. In that sense, we could say that the Kingdom of Cordor has indirectly made a choice of 'protection' rather than 'challenge' for its people.
Madeleine: Do you encounter resistance or misunderstanding from those who are aware of your devotion to The Pale Maiden? How do you address it?
Karolia: Ignorance is a sin only when allowed to reiterate in presence of education. I am keen to explain these matters, as I am speaking them to you, to those who speak ill of the Pale Maiden's Faith - those who refuse these words are free to make such choice. I will say, however, Arelith has been uniquely targeted by the most extremist groups of the Pale Maiden's Faith - a lack of trust is to be expected. I have also done work to repair past mistakes of the Church, such as offering compensation to those who were harmed by bad actors.
Madeleine: Faith is obviously a very personal calling to all of us. Would you be happy to discuss when you felt the call of The Pale Maiden?
Karolia: I would have no qualms recounting the episode - but it is of a personal nature and I would prefer it not to be published.
Madeleine: Of course, let's move on to other questions for now then. Since starting the post in Cordor, you have been mostly focused on the issue of the Sewer System, which I believe you say needs rebuilding. Could you elaborate further on this, and the outcome you expect?
Karolia: I do not believe the sewer system needs rebuilding. The simple fact is that we are still performing the analysis on the sewer system to ascertain whether it sports any critical vulnerabilities.
Madeleine: Ah, forgive my misunderstanding. Are there any barriers or hinderances to this research?
Karolia: Mostly those of time. Many projects have been put on hold when I was performing assistant work to the Cordorian Guard relatively to the Opal Elixirs controversy. Things should accelerate once anew now that the matter is solved. Perhaps, more accurately, now that my involvement in the matter is no longer necessary.
Madeleine: On Opal's Elixirs - do you forsee any issues to Public Health with these tinctures? As I understand it you were able to watch their process, any insights to share?
Karolia: I can safely state that the way the tinctures are produced and the ingredients assembled cannot in any way, shape, or form, cause harm to the general public. The elixirs are not dangerous.
Madeleine: Thank you. A few more questions, then, and I'll stop with the interrogation! Looking back on your journey, how do you feel your faith and your role as Minister have shaped not just your work, but your sense of self?
Karolia: Of course. Could you rephrase the question?
Madeleine: Simply, I suppose, do you find fulfilment and greater personal identity through your work?
Karolia: Hm. The vast majority of Mortals emerge in this world moist and screaming - such is the preamble of life. Before we are born, our mothers give our matter potential and shape but - once we are born, the shaping of our own matter and potential is left to us. In our hunt to achieve a measure of greatness, we seek different paths - self-actualization, confidence in virtues such as love, honour, glee. I can say that I feel, today, better than I felt before I had the roles I today embody. I apologise - this is probably not a good answer for your question.
Madeleine: Thank you - it's alright, it's a good and interesting answer. Finally, if you could share one piece of wisdom that would help the Cordorian public health, what would it be?
Karolia: Do not coddle the younglings. Matter is transformative, by its own nature, and adapts to strenuous circumstances. A weak adult physique, more often than not, suggests a distant and isolated youth, in which the creature was not allowed to risk, explore, and experience the harms of life. Agony; spiritual and physical, prepare for the future and give life's brevity its worth.
Madeleine: Interesting! Thank you so much for answering my questions, it was a joy to hear your perspective and clearly vast knowledge on your subject matters. Did you have any questions for me before we wrap up?
Karolia: No. I am satisfied.
Day 9, Month 12 (Nightal), 185 AR
Madeleine Orlin
BREAKING NEWS
A Somber Shift: The Passing of Chancellor Tiberias Jaggman
The nation woke last trine to the shocking and deeply mournful news of the passing of Chancellor Tiberias Jaggman, just an hour after he officially resigned from his post. Jaggman, a figure whose quiet and steady leadership guided our city through a tumultuous era, succumbed to complications of old age exacerbated by an attempted poisoning - a harrowing ordeal from which he had reportedly been recovering.
It is a day steeped in sorrow and uncertainty. Vice-Chancellor Halvard Arnbjornsson has stepped into the role of Acting Chancellor, holding the reins of government as the wheels of democracy turn its face once more toward the upcoming election. The stakes could not be higher for the two current candidates vying for the nation's leadership: Halvard Arnbjornsson and Lor. Both bring to the fray fierce convictions, longevity and alliances that will undoubtedly shape the political future. Lor has seen many election cycles, whereas this is Halvard's first foray into politics as head. He was, of course, the elective Vice for Lord Alastair Montgomery and later for Chancellor Jaggman.
Halvard Arnbjornsson has chosen Lady Gwendelyr Bethan Ni Liadan as his Vice-Chancellor - who is well known in the city for her dedicated service as Navy Captain, dedication to her crew and role, and her sterling reputation.
Lor, meanwhile, has aligned herself with Arkhosia Vathlas, an Aide to the Ministry of Health, and long-standing Guard who has worked tirelessly to protect this city. Arkhosia has perhaps less prestige in the city, but is no less a strong contender for Vice, and I have no doubt she'll step up to the role admirably/
As the nation mourns the loss of Chancellor Jaggman, we also cast our gaze ever forward. The impending election is poised to be one of monumental consequence, with leadership choices that reflect the soul and direction of our democracy. It remains to be seen how the candidates will honor and uphold the responsibility of this critical juncture.
For now, we grieve. And as we grieve, we remember. Chancellor Tiberias Jaggman as a steward of government, yes, but also as a reflection of our collective resilience - a resilience now called upon anew.
by Madeleine Orlin,
Editor-In-Chief
Day 13, Month 1 (Hammer (Deepwinter)), 186 AR
Madeleine Orlin