The Cordor Press - 184 AR, Month 09, Day 19
This is a copy of the Cordor Press, the finest newspaper on the isle!
Interview with the King!
Day 12, Month 2 (Alturiak), 184 AR
Recently, The Cordor Palace gave the opportunity to the Cordor Press to sit down and speak with King Edward Cordor, in an exclusive interview. With limited time, we asked the King a few questions on the state of the realm, and you can read them here!
Q: What are you thoughts and opinions on the Drow Ssaerth who has been attacking the city, and what will the palace do to help in the future?
His Majesty: Every so often denizens on the Underdark seem to have malicous interest in the people or our city's well being. Politely, I wish Ssaerth the harshest, jus fate the Cordorian people can deliver. His actions took away a pillar of the community, Reginalli, and caused great terror and harm to many more. I trust the Chancellor and the guard will do their utmost to see that Reginalli and many others did not die in vain. The palace will assist, with whatever resources we can spare.
Q: When Chancellor Lady Albet took office, the government shifted back to one with ministries and a full guard, instead of one with a noble vigilante system. What are you thoughts on the current government layout?
His Majesty: Each Chancellor is allowed freedom to form a government beneath them to function in what they believe is best for the it. I will say however, that I do believe the system of the guard continues to show itself as the strongest system. As such, it is in my interest that it persists. *In regards to if he prefers the guard over the noble system* "It (the guard) is the system the palace will be supporting and protecting going forward.
Q: Does the crown have any comment on the recent activities of Lady Azahara sable, regarding her assassination attempt of Lady Kethra Nagel, at Darrowdeep, or further insights on to her status as a noble?
His Majesty: It would be unbecoming of me to remark on the Sabel House, I can only say that I hope Lady Sabel redeems herself, and can rejoin the city as a proper citizen after her punishment as run its course.
Lady Larissa Cremont: Lady Mirabelle (Sabel) is personally devastated. She does love her family dearly.
In closing, We asked for a quote to the people of Cordor. This is what His Majesty had to say,
"We have lost fixtures of our city, Thankless heroes who served day in and out no matter what was asked of them. And yet in the face of every threat, Cordor still stands proud. Hnor the fallen, and fight hard in their memory, so they may never be forgotten."
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And with that, our interview concludes. The Cordor Press again thanks the Cordor Palace and his Majesty King Edward Cordor for the time afforded, and hopes that the people enjoy a glimpse at the thoughts of our monarch.
Updates on Cordor's Government
Day 12, Month 2 (Alturiak), 184 AR
Recently, Cordor had an election that was called during a town meeting, and while it started with three contenders, it went down to two after one withdrew, and it was won by Adimien Crane, who now serves his second term.
A few changes have happened in the government structure, so the Cordor Press sat down with the new vice chancellor to go over them, as to keep the public up to date with the changes if one missed the posts from the chancellor!
Lord Thomas Castemont stepped down as Vice Chancellor during the election, and after it was over, Lord Adimien searched for a new Vice Chancellor, the position was taken up by Lord Galliard Dundarrow.
The position of Treasurer has been vacated. Previously, Lady Ginny Rivorndir was the Treasurer, but since has vacated the position, and the Chancellor has opted not to replace it, which leaves himself and the Vice Chancellor to manage the funds, as to allow ministries to request from either of them for quicker funding, as told by the Vice Chancellor.
The position of Minister of Faith is still open, but two candidates are being trialed for the position, Lady Victoria Ashbourne, and Lor. Keep your eyes peeled on the board for an announcement about that soon!
While no longer Vice Chancellor, Lord Thomas Castemont has taken position as Minister of Justice, and has two new magistrates, Lady Celestine Montgomery, and Charissa Seper. He is still looking for one more magistrate at least to bolster the ministry.
In closing, we asked for a quote from the new Vice Chancellor, and he had this to say:
"The times are trying, there is no denying it. Drow aggression, Underdarker activity, and troublesome accusations in the public space - all seem to conspire to make our City feel less safe, less welcoming... However, Cordorian spirit is just as such: one that thrives in moments of adversity. A Cordorian feels uncomfortable with idle hands, and enjoys rather the fruit of well-performed labor, if neatly achieved victories. As such, I do not quite want to invoke the general public's confidence... rather, I want them to trust in their own strength. We shall overcome, as we did many a time in the past: through unity, judiciousness, and clarity of the purpose."
Events with the Ministry of Culture!
Day 12, Month 2 (Alturiak), 184 AR
The Ministry of Culture has held many events since it has been taken over by Lady Abigail Rayne, and we managed to cover a few recent events.
Cordor's Second Trade Festival was another great success, seeing many stalls set up, and many craftsman attending to peddler their trade, the following is a list of just some of the talented people of the isle who attended;
- Mr Brown Reynolds selling crops and farm tools.
- Mr Narier offering dweomercrafting
- Lord Atticus Stratlace offered Carpentry expertise
- Mr Mouse sold potions, food and drink
- Miss Neith Candlemourn sold wands and scrolls.
- Mr Olrik Belroc sold glassware, potions, food and drink.
- Mr Elrendil Danodin sold his Metalworking services
- Mr Philo sold custom artwork.
They also held a few novelty events to people participate in. A scavenger hunt event was held and won by Aere Cloudseeker, and Elrendil Danodin. A Hot Pepper challenge, where competitors had to eat hot peppers until giving up or passing our from the heat with the last left standing winning, was won by Vast Peace, and Kiyalyune. The Archery challenge was won by Ais Salas, scoring three bullseyes, and Lady Albet Rayne won the Combat Dummy challenge, where the person who hit the dummy as many times as they could without faltering, with twenty hits.
Around twenty five people attended, all in all, and eleven plushies made by Lady Abigail were given out, the most popular being Lord Kara'Goose Rivorndeer.
The ladies also held a date auction, as has been previously held by them, in the Lotus. A total of twenty people were up for auction for dates to the lucky winner, a few of the guard and even the Chancellor themselves! Though stealing the show was Niffaniel, who had a whopping bid of one million and one hundred thousand gold! Over Two million was raised for charity, making it quite a popular, and successful event!
Cordor Press spoke with the Ladies Rayne, and while they are eager to hold more events, they also wish for anyone who is willing to hold an event, or come up with good ideas, to come and speak to them, and get their help to hold more events.
Editors note: Lady Albet Rayne says, "I love Lady Abigail Rayne."
Elemental Assault
Day 17, Month 9 (Eleint), 183 AR
Once again, Cordor was assaulted in another trine of constant attacks, perpetrated by Ssaerth.
--Earth and Water--
The skies turned red, and people in the city were alerted by tremors rocking the city. Guards scrambled to respond, until people saw a giant elemental likened to mud, made of earth, rise in the farmlands, seeable from the city itself. Guards and citizens alike rushed out and put down the giant elemental, though many of the livestock had perished. This was not the end of the encounter however, as a giant elemental made of Ice came from the swamps. This one spoke, and a parlay attempt was made, however this went south and it also attacked, before being put down, not without causing injuries to the people.
--Swampland Battle--
The guards, now on high alert, started to patrol around the city and it's outskirts. A patrol in the swamps came across a small invasion force of Orog, Drow and Drider, and quickly the guards and citizens rallied to push them back. An intense battle took place in the swamps, where over a hundred of the invading force pushed against the stalwart defenders of Cordor. The attacks gained ground only for the Cordorian defenders to push them back, many brave souls falling in combat, though most were brought back after the push was dealt with.
--Fire and Wind--
During the attack, a portal had been opened in the dock warehouse, with fire elementals pouring out. Guards and those suited to extinguish fires tried to contain the blaze to the warehouse to stop it from spreading. However, in the midst of this, they found that a giant fire elemental was the cause of it. Guard Cinders was able to speak to the elemental and guide it outside, where upon being in the rain, it expressed it only wished to leave the damp city, and it was sent off.
After three incidents, Guards Cal Quinn and Cinders Char went to Thoramind's tower to speak to the archwizard about the incidents, and try and ask if he knew how to help the people of Cordor with these portals Ssaerth can open. He offered little counsel, but told them to deal with his problem upstairs, where they found that he had contained a giant wind elemental. It took it's chance to escape. The Storm Elemental blew across the city, and over the water before returning, where Abel Derlson was able to speak to it. Once again, it was convinced to leave, though with a hopeful note that it may come to Abel's aid, should it hear him call.
In conclusion, this latest attack is a sign of things to come. Many believe that Ssaerth was attacking our farmlands and warehouse in preparation for siege, trying to cut off our supplies and starve us before his final assault, and with the prior poisoning of our water, it appears that he will do everything to destroy Cordor. But have heart, dear reader. None of the brave men and women who fought this trine will give up, we will stand together.
Cordor will prevail.
Join the Cordor Guard!
Day 26, Month 1 (Hammer (Deepwinter)), 184 AR
New Arrival? Veteran Adventurer? Or passionate citizen?
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All are welcome to enlist and become part of the Cordor Guard! - Strive to see a safe and prosperous City alongside like-minded individuals.
Help us ensure the safety of our Crown, the City and its people!
Aid us in repelling evil-doers who seek harm upon all we hold dear!
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Enlist at your nearest uniformed Officer - our Recruitment board in the Square - or contact:
* Commander Aldric Belford
* Captain Cal Quinn
* Captain Gabriel Blackwood de Leon
* Lieutenant Drakonus Mal'korith
* Staff Sergeant Rey the Fey
AR 184 - Month of Alturiak Riddle!
Day 12, Month 2 (Alturiak), 184 AR
I roam the forest, big and wide,
In winter's cold, I like to hide.
My coat is thick, my growl is loud,
I stand tall and strong, fierce and proud.
In honey's sweet embrace, I'll feast,
But once I sleep, I'm a peaceful beast.
Who am I, tell me if you dare!
Place your answers on the board in the Cordor Press front door and a lucky winner will be selected to win the prize of one hundred Bless Weapon scrolls!
AR 184 - Month of Alturiak Poem
Day 12, Month 2 (Alturiak), 184 AR
This issues poem is written and submitted by Trot Bellows.
Cordor
Day 7, Month 8 (Elasias (Highsun)), 183 AR
In the bustling city of Cordor, where trade and intrigue dance, Merchants haggle in the markets, each seeking their own chance. Streets are filled with whispers, secrets hidden in plain sight, Deals are struck in shadowed alleys, under the cloak of night.
Ships from distant lands arrive, their cargoes rich and rare, Bringing spices, silks, and stories, the city's lifeblood to share. Noble houses vie for power, their ambitions finely spun, In the grand halls of Cordor, where many battles are won.
Artisans craft with skillful hands, their wares both fine and grand, While thieves move with nimble grace, their fortunes close at hand. In taverns and in guildhalls, alliances are made and broken, Cordor thrives on every word, each promise left unspoken.
A city where the bold and cunning find their fates entwined, In Cordor's ever-turning wheel, the future is designed.
Kara-Turan Steamed Dumplings
Day 19, Month 8 (Elasias (Highsun)), 183 AR
While seafood is the traditional filling for these dumplings, we can also use lamb. Lamb is a bit of an exotic type of meat on the islands, but it is common in certain continental areas. To make lamb dumplings, simply double the dough recipe and use it for lamb.
Spiced carrot side salad (4 servings):
Pickling:
1 bag large carrots (1lb.)
1/2 onion
3 cloves
1 tankard (cup) white or rice vinegar
3 large bay leaves
10 black peppercorns
3 pinches coriander (1.5 t.)
1/2 pinch sweet paprika (.5 t)
1 pinch salt (1t.)
2 pinches sugar (2t.)
1.5 tankards (cups) of water
Salad:
1/2 tankard (cup) seaweed
1/4 tankard (cup) sesame oil (or more to taste)
2 cloves garlic
1/2 pinch salt (.5 t.)
1 pinch ground coriander (1t.)
tiny pinch sweet paprika (.25 t.)
1/2 pinch cayenne pepper (.5 t.)
Sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds
This part is simply a side dish. You can skip it altogether, but I like having a bit of a salad to go with a dish. Picking carrots needs to be done well in advance. One or two days would be enough. Thinly julienne carrots and onions into ribbons about a finger's length. Mix all the liquids and spices together in a pot, add sliced carrots and onions, bring the liquid to a boil, and let simmer for a few minutes. Take off the heat, cover, and let cool down. Set aside to pickle and marinade. When you are ready to make the salad, we will drain the pickling liquid as well as we can before adding in oil.
Assemble the salad just before dinner and serve it first as an appetizer. Add carrots to a salad bowl, roughly chop fresh seaweed. Make sure it is drained as well. Grate or press garlic into pulp. Now, all you need to do is add oil, spices, and seasonings and stir everything together. If you want the salad to be sweeter, a tiny spoon of sugar or two is an option.
Dough (makes 14 dumplings):
2 tankards (cups) all-purpose flour
2/3 tankard (cup) boiling water
Pinch of salt
To make the dough, start by mixing the flour and salt in a bowl. Then, pour the boiling water into the flour mixture and stir it with a spatula or a spoon. At first, the mixture may resemble dry sand, but don't worry. Keep stirring until all the ingredients come together into a tough dough. Wrap it up and let it chill in cold storage to relax the gluten for at least forty minutes.
Filling (makes 14 dumplings):
3 palms of lobster meat or shrimp (12oz.)
1 palm chives (dried or fresh) (1 oz.)
1/4 spoon fish sauce (.25 t.)
1 spoon oyster sauce (1 t.)
1 large clove of garlic
tiny pinch white pepper (.25 t.)
tiny pinch ground red pepper (.25 t.)
1 egg's eggwhite
1 spoon sesame oil (1 t.)
Begin by mincing shrimp or lobster meat. Now add chives, fish and oyster sauce, minced garlic, white pepper, ground red pepper, and sesame oil. Mix together well, cover, and leave in cold storage to marinade for 30 minutes. Do not discard shrimp or lobster shells. We will use them in broth. Once the marinading is done, add a single egg's eggwhite to the bowl and combine it all thoroughly once again.
Break the chilled dough into 14 even pieces. Roll each one thinly. Place a spoonful of filling at the center of the dough circle, pull all the sides up, and pinch sealed, twisting the top. Place dumplings in a boiling steamer on a sheet of parchment or butcher's paper, cover, and steam for up to eight minutes.
Broth (makes 4 servings):
1 large carrot
1 leek
2 celery stalks
1/2 onion
lobster and shrimp shells
2 cloves garlic
10 peppercorns
2 star anise pods
4 pinches ginger (4 t.)
handful of parsley stems
4 medium jars of water (4 quarts)
A handful of parsley, chives, scallions, and arugula sprouts
Salt & pepper to taste
As always, making broth is a great way to use up scraps. In addition to the usual shells, carrot, celery, onion, garlic, anise, pepper, ginger, and herbs, I used garlic and onion skins and vegetable shavings. Shellfish and anise will give us a slightly sweet stock. Bring to a boil and simmer for thirty minutes. Strain the broth.
Now, all we need is to plate. You can serve steamed dumplings on your own or drown in the broth. Chop up greens, about a heating tablespoon per bowl: parsley, chives, scallions, and arugula sprouts to give it a nice bitter zest. Taste and make sure the seasoning is to your liking.
And this is all. A hearty meal of spicy pickled carrot salad, followed by a herbed bowl of broth with dumplings. All that is missing now is a nice tankard of light ale.
*recipe is from Juniper's Companion to Venturesome Cookery, by Juniper Churlgo, with a few modifications. I encourage you to see if you can find a copy of her cookbook. I was lucky enough to be able to purchase a copy while visiting Suzail. In future recipes, I will be including my own personal recipes from my Mother's cookbooks and with my alterations!
Advertising Space!
Day 3, Month 6 (Kythorn), 183 AR
Want your organization, shop or event advertised? Reach out to the Cordor Press! Leave a message on the Pressroom door, or speak to Charissa Seper (Char!), and we can see about adding an advertisement for you! Ads can be added during an issues run, so you won't have to wait for the next issue!