The Cordor Press - 186 AR, Month 04, Day 03
This is a copy of the Cordor Press, the finest newspaper on the isle!
Mystery of Skaljard's Eclipse Ritual: The Infertility Curse
Day 15, Month 2 (Alturiak), 186 AR
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
Interview: Karolia Brandt
Day 9, Month 12 (Nightal), 185 AR
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.
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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.
POEM: 'Beneath The Weight' by Love Erebus
Day 15, Month 2 (Alturiak), 186 AR
With each breath, I feel the crumble of my rib cage,
Hearing the bellow above me, the height of your rib's rage.
A world built on power, heavy in its wake,
Where silence is currency, and I must partake.
You stand tall, your words sharp as knives,
As if the earth should bow and your will survives.
But I am not fragile, nor meant to be caged-
Your fury can't break me, though I've been enraged.
The weight of years presses, relentless and cold,
An unseen hand pulling, its grip too bold.
Telling me to whisper, to yield, to bend-
But I rise from the ashes, time and again.
They say I should shrink, to soften my fire,
That my voice is too loud, too sharp, too dire.
That in silence, I should find my place-
A delicate doll with a perfect face.
But I will not be what they try to define,
I will not shrink beneath your design.
You carve my worth with your hollow gaze,
Yet fail to see the fire that blazes through my days.
For I am not your quiet, meek reflection,
Not a shadow waiting for your direction.
I am the storm in the distance, unseen?
The fury behind the silence you deem serene.
The roots of the earth will steady my stand,
For I am the force you cannot command.
For though your storm may rage and roar,
I am the rain that softens the floor.
I am the quiet that burns like a flame,
The power you fear -- untamed, unclaimed.
With each breath, I feel the crumble of my rib cage,
But I will not break, not in your rage.
Agony & Advice with Madame Yelatska II
Day 11, Month 2 (Alturiak), 186 AR
Dearest blossoms,
The Claw of Winter is upon us and has us in its grasp, though fret not, for I shall - I hope - warm a few cockles with my advice for the days ahead.
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Dear Madame Yelatska,
Madame, my book club has turned into more of a wine club, and I'm the only one still reading the books. Should I start a new club or just embrace the wine?
Dear Erstwhile Erudite,
Such gatherings started so civilly oft become sites of conviviality. We see this from the covens of the east, to the guildsmen of the west, and all between. It is not necessarily so bad a thing, and you might find solace in the cups as well as the shelves.
That being said, mayhap you could find or, better yet, pen a book to stimulate conversation - whether for its fantastic claims, revelation of dramatic secrets, or utter obscenity. That plus the wine might make for a more memorable moot!
Recommended reading: tea leaves
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Dear Madame Yeletska,
My dog has started barking at a decorative gnome in my garden, as if it's plotting something sinister. Should I be concerned or let them work it out?
To the Concerned Cultivator,
Companions for so long as we know, dogs and other beasts may know more than we think. Consider the humble truffle-hound and its supernatural scent, or the frightful howl of black dogs.
You should certainly consider whether your canine friend has detected a whiff of the unsavoury about this gnome. Given their predilection for traps, tricks, and illusions of all kind, your kept gnome might be conniving some devious plot behind your back. You would do wise to keep an eye on its behaviour, especially around your dog. If symptoms worsen you might have to free the gnome from its decorative captivity.
Suggested herb: smokepowder
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Dear Madame Yelatska,
I am a noble lady, to keep it short - my family disapproves of the person I'm courting and keeps pressuring me to end the relationship. Should I prioritize their concerns or follow my own heart?
To the Broken Hearted,
Such a common trouble as any have seen, and one that never has easy answers. I can offer a few, however: consider your station and what you stand to inherit - true love may not be said to have a price, but be brutally honest with yourself. Particularly if it is land, wealth, power that you might lose, should your family deny your inheritance. Then, you might consider leaving your courtship freely, and then living forever a-wond'ring what could've been.
Or let us be a little more pragmatic. Find one your family approves of, give them the bare minimum (probably an heir or two), and then keep your true love as a concubine in wealth and luxury. Everybody wins!
Suggested tea: "almond" (for the one they approve of, after a couple years and kids. You'll know when the time's right)
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Dear Madame Yelatska,
On Gnomish Espionage Cattle; for weeks now, I've noticed cows watching me. When I sleep, it's all I think about. I know they are working for the Holy Gnomean Empire. What do I do about them?
My dear Rattled Rancher,
To cross from the waking world to that of dreams is a sure sign you are troubled. I might suggest, then, inhaling many different exotic vapours and confronting this bovine menace head on, or the nearest gnome.
Suggested herb: deep jhulgian blue beetle (crushed, insufflated)
(EDITOR'S NOTE: Madame Yelatska came rushing in moments before we went to print with an updated version of this response. It simply reads:)
My dear Rattled Rancher,
You're probably right. I checked. Run.
Suggested herb: guaji (lots of it)
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Dear Madame Yelatska,
I am looking for a new pet. A true companion. Do you think a Displacer Beast is a good idea?
My Burdened Beast,
A displacer beast is a fine companion to have, so long as one can find it. It is ill-advised to tame a wild one, however, for they are terrifically strong and free-willed. Better still to hunt one with a fresh litter, and raise a kitten from its mother. You may have about the same amount of difficulty prying her young from her, but the kitten will be much more tame if raised separately.
You might be able to achieve the same results less dangerously by adorning an ordinary kitty in a tiny cloak made of displacer hide. Put a bell on it, though.
Suggested flower: silver vine
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Dear Madame Yelatska,
I've recently gotten into brewing drinks: mead, kaeth, ale. Are there any drinks witches know of alcoholic or otherwise you would recommend I try brewing?
To the Intended Intoxicologist,
We closely guard many of our elixirs and brews, but there are some I might share. If there is interest, I may add such a recipe to each of my articles, but for now, here is one from my grimoires:
For to make a potion to soothe nerves; take brown sugar densely packed, a table-spoon of butter of hale cows, good vanilla carried from a reputable ship, powdered cinnamon, allspice, and a little under a half-gill of fine whisky or rum. Combine all but the booze in a good cup, then lay thereto the rum or whisky, and then finally fill with hot (though not boiling) water. Grate half a nutmeg thereto and serve it forth. Good for most ailments.
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Finally, someone left a grotesquely long missive, signed their name, and it's all about local Cordorian politics. Now I am a generous witch and always happy to help, but I plainly state inquiries must be anonymous and below a hundred words. This gazette only has so much room! I will not be answering it publicly, but may be found for a private consultation.
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Should you too, dear reader, wish for my advice and auguries, please submit all of your queries to the door of the Cordor Press or to Madeleine Orlin, in a hundred words or less, and anonymously, or with a pseudonym. Anything may be asked, from matters of love, money, politics or even the esoteric. Private consultations may also be considered.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Day 15, Month 2 (Alturiak), 186 AR
- Fools Clover: It Came From Beneath the Ground
Where: Fool's Clover, Nomad Basement
When: https://a.chronus.eu/1bbf034
What: A selection of poems, stories and performances in Undercommon.
- An Evening of Faith & Fable
Where: Cordor Farmlands
When: https://a.chronus.eu/1BBF3B8
What: Storytelling beneath, the stars, held by the Faith Ministry.
- Book Signing, Meet & Greet: Arian Reed
Where: Cordor Library
When: https://a.chronus.eu/1bc1104
What: Meet & Greet book signing with reknowned poet, Arian Reed, held by the Knowledge Ministry.
- Skill & Steel: Cordor's Grand Tournament
Where: Cordor Arena
When: https://a.chronus.eu/1BC16A4
What: A tournament test of arms, held by Eloise Ritten and backed by the Cordorian Government.
- Greengrass Festival
Where: Cordor Farmlands
When: https://a.chronus.eu/1bc6ac8
What: A festival, with games, local foods, decorating and worship. Pleease refer to Ladies Rayne for further details and prizes.
Got a hot tip? A quirky tale? A lingering mystery?
Day 28, Month 11 (Uktar), 185 AR
Come find me, Madeleine Orlin, the new Editor-in-Chief of the Cordor Press, or post on the messageboard / door just inside the printing press by the barracks.
Do you have stories that beg to be told, rumors that demand a good snoop, tidbits too juicy to keep to yourself, or even requests for us to dig deeper into the unknown? How about a good joke, or serialised story, or even a nice poem that you'd like to share?
Whether you've spotted something newsworthy or simply want to share a laugh, this is your stage. Let's make it a patchwork of everything intriguing, inspiring, or downright amusing. Who knows, it might make it into the next issue of the Cordor Press!
(Also taking interviews for regular employees who are interested in the world of journalism.)