Why I Want To Go - Exotic Items, Creatures, and Wares 6

By: Emily "Kara" Murphy

Hello People of the Realms,

It has been some years since I’ve visited Stonewood…on a weekend that is. Although I’ve fallen out of the habit since I moved south, I used to visit quite regularly on the weekdays, when the land was less likely to be ravaged by some powerful evil person or evil army or evil lich, or occasionally all three at once. Although all nations in the area see what can only be described as a weekend spike in monster sightings, Stonewood took the cake for how quickly I would feel the need to leave before dusk on a Friday. Why am I breaking this years long streak you ask? Well…if your Baroness jumped off a bridge, would you?

Baroness Phee has decided that we should help our Stonewood friends by venturing into their lands to enter a Horadric Vault and obtain a key to Pandemonium. Stonewood, infamous for their anti-fae protections, shall receive the aid of the nation that is at least 3/5ths Fae or Fae adjacent in retrieving something I definitely know about and definitely did not space out when it was explained to me by Tony. I suppose I asked for new issues when I moved, but this is not quite what I meant. Granted, as much as I don’t doubt Phee’s intention to help, I’m still not convinced this isn't just a ploy to see James Swift.

I won’t lie and say I am being forced to go, however. There are people I hold dear in Stonewood that I want to help and protect. I won’t shy away from any challenge if it means preventing those I care about from being in danger, or in more danger that is strictly necessary for what we all do. And with what Deckard Cain is promising we’ll face, the challenge will be worth it in the end, to save lives of civilians and to help our friends and allies. I hope to see familiar faces there, working towards those goals. And hopefully, one of those faces can tell me what a key to Pandemonium is, because I won’t lie (again), I do not know what that is, and I am a little concerned with the name. May the Warrior of Summer aid us all in our quest.

Yours in Faith,

High Priestess Magus Jarl Sir Kara

Poems of Peace from Stonewood: Part 2 By the River

 By James Swift (Timothy Suitor)

By the River

Grey clouds overhead, the lid of a coffin,

Some days my labs grow dreary and dark.

The rain these years falls so often

It can be hard to find a warming spark.

Some days my labs grow dreary and dark.

Into Starhaven I must amble,

It can be hard to find a warming spark,

While others from the rain, flee and scramble.

Into Starhaven I must amble

To the cafe that knows me well.

While others from the rain, flee and scramble,

There’s a table where I can dwell.

To the cafe that knows me well.

Below their deck, by the riverside,

There’s a table where I can dwell

By barrels and loading dock, a place to hide.

Below their deck, by the riverside

I can listen to rain on the water, roof, and street.

By barrels and loading dock, a place to hide,

Where I can write or read, along with a treat.

I can listen to rain on water, roof, and street

A moment away, where I can just be.

Where I can write or read, along with a treat,

A bite, their scone of the day, a hot cup of tea.

A moment away, where I can just be,

To set burdens aside and rest.

A bite, their scone of the day, a hot cup of tea.

To keep me going until the last quest.

To set burdens aside and rest,

To take the sky as a blanket. Not

To keep me going until the last quest,

But I’ve found calm, I’m seldom fraught.

To take the sky as a blanket, not

Grey clouds overhead, the lid of a coffin.

But I’ve found calm, I’m seldom fraught,

The rain these years falls so often.

With the near constant rain these springs and early summer, I felt it fitting to write a Pantoum for this entry in my Stonewood Peace Poem saga. With a Rhyme Scheme of ABAB BCBC CDCD, etc, ending in JAJA, the repeating of lines from the prior verse until it ended in a repetition of lines from the first verse felt to me like it captured the weeks of rain beginning to blend. I practice poetry to train myself mentally for rituals, and have used one of these in a ritual to Chronos to display the cyclical nature of time. I enjoyed writing with a bit of focus on the punctuation. It would have been easier to make each line a self contained sentence, but by changing the punctuation around I was able to make it flow into other lines in a more organic way.

    Within the city of Starhaven, there are many restaurants and cafes. As our border city, and primary hub of trade, there is enough traffic to warrant a thriving food industry. I do my best to help these businesses in part because it is good to be seen about town, but also because I have yet to master cooking. I can burn water, and not in an impressive way, I can barely cook oatmeal or rice.

    But there is one cafe that I have grown fond of, a lovely place with a deck looking out over the river. They have a variety of teas and drinks, or little sandwiches and pastries, and they are always trying something new, experimenting. I respect that. At one point when the city was under martial law, and I was less popular among the folk, they tried to seat me someplace less obtrusive. That ended up being outside, beneath the cafe, by their back doors at a table used mostly just to hold cases as they were being brought off of boats and into the kitchen, and for cooks to throw dice when things were slow.

    It was quiet, out of the way, secure, and I’ve found a comfort there. In the summer, it’s cool from the river’s breeze, in the fall, the river reflects the lamplight and orange of the tree leaves in a way that looks almost like a crucible of bronze, in the winter you can watch the chunks of ice and snow drift along lazily like passing small islands by boat at sea. In the spring though, and most of the year these last few, I have been enjoying the rain there. It is soothing in its sound, and some days you can’t even see the other side of the river for it is raining so hard. I run warm, so the chill of it is kind to me, and allows me to enjoy even further the teas they serve.

    It may be one of my most comfortable places in the Realms. To no one’s surprise I feel like myself in my wizard’s tower, behind a podium, in a lab, or at a ritual circle. But surprising myself, a place I enjoy and find a calm and peace in, is at a table by the river, nestled between some barrels and crates, on a rainy midday or eve.

You would have my thanks,

-Magus James Swift

What You Missed - Exotic Items, Creatures, & Wares 5

Hello friends of the Realms, Chrysanta Morris writing first.

I want to start this off by saying that while I have not been myself since leaving Stonewood, I am glad to have been able to fight at my friends’ side and happy to share what was missed. It will also, hopefully, explain to those who have been to my shop lately and noticed some… visible changes. So, shall we begin?

After the hard work we did in Stonewood last week, we started our day with a ritual. Between collecting idols and being given guidelines, a good handful of us gathered together to assemble The Rite of Dissolution. The preparation was done during the week leading up to the day to make sure we did all of our research properly as it was told to us that accuracy was far more important than expedience. To further elaborate, this ancient rite had to be done in order to cut off our adversary, the angel known as Urzael, from the angel network to hopefully make him far more easy to combat against. 

According to our guidelines, there were three parts to said ritual:

The Challenge of Shape, The Challenge of Voice, and The Challenge of Exchange.

The Challenge of Shape had us wondering the type of shape to create for the ritual itself, we collectively decided on the shape known as Theta. Though, instead of the traditional one line, we had two lines. We then aligned the idols we obtained last weekend and correlated them with eighteen angels under the Goddess Solarus’ rule in said circle and two parallel lines. 

Which led us to the Challenge of Voice, naming said angels and then setting down their corresponding idols. Luckily for this part, King Hygar had a pronunciation guide for each participant in the ritual so they could properly call out the name of the corresponding angel in the ritual. We then, as one, set our idols down.

That’s where I came in for the final challenge: The Challenge of Exchange. A sacrifice had to be made which would return once Goddess Luna had finished another cycle in the coming month. It seemed only fitting that to symbolically cut off the Angel Urzael from the angelic network, I sever my own connection to the Fae Wylds for one month and a day. I have never been shy about my pride in being a Fae and thus it made sense to give that connection up for the ritual. Which, to my own delight and many of our friends, worked swimmingly. Though, I have to admit, I had a sense of deep loneliness when I saw my dear familiar Cinnamon suddenly fade into nothing. I knew he would leave but I did not expect it to leave such a hole in my heart… 

Though, I regret nothing. We were able to move forward and focus on our next task. 

After the ritual we all were on guard. Moments later we saw a figure approaching in the distance. We all readied ourselves as we braced for a fight we had been preparing for. As we started fighting Urzael we noticed no matter what we had done he was not staying down and continued to attack us. During that confrontation some of us found the opening of what appeared to be a tomb, we discovered upon entering something in the tomb stopped our healing which we would later discover was a Demi-lich deep within (or so I was told). Unfortunately, due to multiple of our companions needing to be healed, I was carrying them back to the opening and with the help of Liselle casting a healing circle right outside the tomb raising them. That didn’t last long as Urzael started to follow us into the tomb. Once he saw the angel blade I carried demanded to speak with his sister and gave chase to me, but thankfully I’m a nimble little otter and kept escaping him…until he started materializing through walls! The adventurers were momentarily pinned between the Lich and the angel. Urzael continued to follow me until I was reunited with Merrix whom I promptly hid behind and continued my escape from the tomb. 

As the day wore on and our battle of attrition with Urzael continued, the adventurers assembled had no choice but to split, some of us remaining to draw the rogue angel’s ire and others beginning the search for the Soul Crucible that was preventing his demise. I spent much of this time in the thick of battle with the reapers called to Urzael’s side, aiding those who were more suited to fighting as best I could. Every so often, the rest of our party would emerge from the woods, having proved victorious against the Death Maidens that stood in their way. 

After a long stint of battle, I turned my attention to locating the Soul Crucible. I ventured into the forest to meet up with the small group that was already searching, following familiar paths and forging new ones, fighting off the hordes of reapers that blocked the way. The air was different here, and comrades that fell could not stay down long, lest their corpses vanish (it was discovered that they had been returned to the edge of the forest, out of our immediate reach). We pushed onward, battling Urzael’s forces that attempted to surround us from all sides, until we reached a small clearing. There at the center floated a massive orb thrumming with power, so dark it felt as though it was pulling me in. Around it flowed an ever shifting mist and a spectral figure that seemed to maintain its power. One glance was all we needed. This was the Soul Crucible. 

As we stared, reapers began to close in once again, cutting off our only exit to the clearing. We beat them back, and a vision from Mistral presented exactly what we needed to do to destroy the Crucible, as well as a new problem: those who held the Horadric Stones had to render the Crucible, but most of them were far away from us keeping Urzael occupied. Nothing is so simple as an exchange, however - earlier, each of the Horadric Stones had bonded with its holder, and could not be passed to those already at the Soul Crucible. I conversed briefly with those present, and when an opportunity presented itself, sprinted out of the woods. The reaper I had slipped by gave chase, attempting to strike me down. By some miracle, I made it to those fighting in the field, informing Hygar of the situation. The call was made for all to return to the Soul Crucible, and we made our way back into the woods. 

We again faced opposition from Urzael’s forces, but managed to make our way back, those bonded to the stones readying themselves. As they began to render the Crucible, the spectral figure emerged again, attempting to restore it. It disappeared when hit with magic, and the Crucible was quickly destroyed, pushing us one step closer to our foe’s defeat. 

Throughout the day, while people were killing death maidens and destroying soul crucibles, another group kept Urzael distracted on the field in order to allow our friends to do their work unimpeded. It was during this time that we truly were forced to contend with his strength, as we could not kill him just keep him busy. 

During one of these encounters, Urzael managed to rip open Zula’s chest and remove the tear of Aurora that keeps him alive and functional. The Church of Vandor were able to come together in order to get him back up and running with a Shard of Remembrance, which unleashed a very vengeful Zula upon Urzael. This was equal parts inspiring and aggravating, as Zula continued to charge against the enemy over and over again, his spirit unwavering, even when he was needed elsewhere. 

Urzael also kidnapped Tulkhan, leading to cries of “not again!”, as my lycanthropy is the direct result of a previous attempt of Urzael to kidnap Tulkhan. Hygar managed to get Tulkhan back, but was stapled by the Sword of Kings in the process. 

And thus things went back and forth. People distracted Urzael. He rendered them. We saved our friends and went at it again.

In spite of the challenges faced, the heroes persevered. Both Urzael and the reapers who were brought to the field were faced with courage and honor by those who took up arms in the defense of humanity. And they were distracted long enough for us to finish the final phase of the fight.

Soon, we had yet another ritual on our hands as night began to settle in. For anyone unaware, being in Stonewood at night is usually not a good thing. 

So, we made haste.

While it was close to dusk when we arrived, a ring of blazing fire made it as bright as the morning. With Friend Merrix, Friend Mogar, Friend Tsura, Friend Margaret, Friend Odd and myself, we started a ritual to make it so the fire would not burn and harm us. It meant we had to concentrate mana alongside the ring of fire.

I cannot speak for everyone else but as the sun finally set in the sky, my brow covered in sweat and my head spinning with nightmares, my god offered me a boon. My skin began to glitter with stars and a powerful figure of celestial bodies manifested next to me, assisting me and my friends in completing the task as the wall of flames sizzled out. Soon, I was enthralled with the fight with the Rogue angel Urzael. I felt every nightmare I collected over the course of the day and used them to empower my friends and weaken our enemy. I could not wait to see that pathetic little fire bird fall as we descended on him with our final rending blows. When he was nothing but goo, King Hygar made sure his soul was placed in a secure space so we may offer it to the Goddess Solarus for judgement.

With Honor to the Realms,

Puddle Jumper Vaya, Lightbringer Margaret, Moon Shepherd Odd, and Dream Mender Chrysanta

The Voranian Scholars of Water, Fire, Earth, and Air

What You Missed - Exotic Items Creatures & Wares 4.5

By: Joshua "Merrix" Bryant

When I recall my introduction to adventures in Stonewood the message that was reiterated to me, over and over, by everyone was “Have you read the pamphlet?” 

“Of course I read the pamphlet.”

“Who doesn’t read the pamphlet?”

“Váya for the love of the gods, find me this freaking pamphlet so people stop asking.”

Weirdly after I, of course (who wouldn’t), read the pamphlet everyone was telling me about I drew the following simple conclusions. Adventuring in Stonewood has four simple rules to follow.

1. Do not perform blood magick.

2. Respect the land and its gods.

3. Don’t be a dick.

4. Don’t wander off after shiny things.

Imagine my surprise when I found out that we need to traipse through the Stonewood countryside to complete, as J’ortsa eloquently put it, "fetchiest of fetch quests." Complete with 19 different shiny things that we needed to get in order to weaken an angelic servant of the  “Harbinger of Death.” Split the party? Sure… how could that go wrong.

However things did not go as badly as they could have. In order to find these items we delved into the poisonous dwarven copper mines to find an obelisk. We had soup at Jerrick Farms where we found a lion statue. A small group of us went to the Tower of the Gods to bargain with them for an icon of a Starburst Sun as the rest of us went into bat infested caverns to collect a bomb. The forces of the enemy dogged us along the way. Reapers, powerful angelic warriors, of the archangel attacked us many times.  There was a moment that it seemed the sky broke open and attempted to wash away our hard work, with impromptu lakes and rivers springing up from seemingly nowhere. But even this could not distract us from our task with Cappa, Váya and others fishing up (see what I did there) more of these relics.

In light of how many items were sought, retrieved, and the many epic battles I do not feel as if I could do them all justice. I will say what I can of these two moments that were important to me  personally. I was proud to stand with my pack in our struggles before the Dark Chapel to retrieve an item that holds great great importance and needed to be retrieved to protect our own angelic allies. Being able to close the Chapel doors as our enemy sought to open them was something I will not forget. Which reminds me I should thank Margaret for letting me borrow that toy… Also hunting in the woods at Silverglade forest with two members of my bloodline, by moonlight, against a magical, teleporting creature was a fantastic moment that I will not soon forget. 

When all was said and done we emerged from this “fetching fetch quest” having broken one of the four rules I was told to follow, having collected almost all of the items set before us. Components in a ritual, provided to us by Lord, Sir Elwin, to aid us in weakening our foe this coming weekend. 

J’ortsa wrote his missive about why he wanted to go on the “fetchingest fetchapalooza” that the date was Middas 3rd of Hearthfire by his calendar. Having done some research I can tell you that that was the day of Tales and Tallows, a celebration of Necromancy. A celebration of Death. Thankfully Death’s harbinger, though at our heels, did not catch us in our searching. I also find good omen that our next adventure to Stonewood is, in fact, between the 12th of Hearthfire, the day before we return, and is the celebration of Riglametha. A celebration of grateful offerings. And that the 14th of Hearthfire is the Fire Festival, the burning of King Olaf One-Eye. He, who was sentenced to be burned for betraying his city. I will see you all next on Loredas, the 13th of Hearthfire. This will be the day that we make our first strike against he who has betrayed his mother.

Merrix Oreryn

Magus of the Realms

High Mystic of Voraniss

Acolyte and Prophet of Vandor

Why I Want To Go - Exotic Wares 4.5

By Justin "J'ortsa" Thibeault 

Middas 3rd of Hearthfire

Khajiit has heard of a saying you humans have, something about a "needle in a haystack." Where J'ortsa comes from that is not a common phrase. But he does find that his upcoming foray into the lands of Stonewood are much like this proverbial haystack, alas it is more like trying to find sixteen specific individual pieces of hay amongst the haystack of Stonewood. As that is what we have discovered is needed to defeat one of the rogue angels lieutenants. Sixteen items of varying power and strength, scattered across the lands. Should we manage to collect all of these items then we will be miracle workers. 

Now thankfully the combined magicks of some of Voraniss' seers have figured out what these specific pieces of hay look like, and where they are located. Making our endeavors much more manageable. This one has heard of fetch quests, and he understands this to be one of the "fetchiest of fetch quests." So if that is something that calls to you, then we would ask of you to come to our aid. The 'Harbinger of Death' is not a title one recieves without merit. Any way we can weaken this powerful foe is worth doing.

The tasks to find and collect the items will be grueling, there is little doubt about it. There will be combat of the blade, spell, and mind. Puzzles that will challenge ones mind, enemies to put down, and Odd keeps saying something about "physical labor" so this one can only presume there will be heavy objects to move. Which if one thinks about it for a moment, it all begins to sound like something one would hire a "contractor" for... 

There is much at stake. The rogue angel of death grows ever stronger and we must strike while the iron is hot, else we will surely fall to the onslaught of the angel and his reapers. Or perhaps there shall be smooth sailing, one cannot be sure. But what J'ortsa is sure of, is that he will look forward to the conclusion in one weeks time.

J'ortsa of Rathkeale

Watcher of the Skyless Sea

Apprentice to the Horadrim

Poems of Peace from Stonewood: Part 1

By: Tim "James Swift" Suitor

I live in a land oft seen as dark,

With reputation of danger and war.

Our home holds risks others don't have

Every time we walk out a door.

We may say ‘safe,’ in a relative sense,

Or with a sardonic smirk,

But be assured, every goodbye is sweet

When they head out to work.

It takes a strange folk to live in this land

They find a way to survive.

We get by on more than bread and cheese

And will find a way to thrive.

The people, resilient, the communities, strong,

Finding ways to keep their heads high.

They cannot afford to be overcome,

So they look each day in the eye.

But despite the dangers, the rigors, and worse,

There are still ways to find Peace and cheer.

Please allow me to recount some places and ways

To dispel a Stonewood fear.

–

    I was neither born nor raised in the nation of Stonewood, I petitioned the nation over a decade ago, and a common sentiment I observed was a shudder. People asking if that was truly where I wanted to live. Not that the nation was bad, but the lands themselves people justifiably were cautious about.

    The lands ARE dangerous. Full of undead, plenty of monsters, deities and their servants that can have ill tempers ranging from a curse to a laying low those they feel stand against them or in their way. We’ve been a part of wars against terrible threats that still manage to haunt us, and I’ve seen shadows far too deep here. But nonetheless, it is my home.

    I thrive here, I do my best work, and I seek to elevate those around me. The people here deserve peace, and I will continue to fight for it. At the request of my Lord, I am working on a public facing project for Stonewood, and this is the first stage of that. I hope to release a poem each month about the beauty or kindness that can be found in these harsh lands, sharing that important part of the country I call home.

    I follow Solarus, of the Novem, Stonewood’s Pantheon. She is a goddess of Peace and War. There has been a lot of war in these past years, and more still approaching. It is important that we find the peace we can.

 You would have my thanks

 -Magus James Swift

Nations of the Realms: Stonewood

I realized recently, that in my years as an adventurer, I knew little of the lands of this plane I now call home. There are so many faces and groups I know little about…so I felt that it was time to fix that. I know that with the fresh flood of new adventurers each year, it would be helpful for them. And, truly, how many of us truly know our neighbors outside of the camaraderie we build? What do we know of our fellow heroes of the Realms?

I began asking a set of simple questions to gather this information, and much of it is direct quotes. I hope I do get to learn more about many places!

- Felnar Dulintel Dawncry-Nosetti

The Country of Stonewood

Long ago Stonewood was formed by nomads settling in the area. They founded the lands, as many of their kind would. The forest was bountiful, the river fresh and providing. They were no more than a small civilization to start with, and over the years grew and grew. In that time, they found need for religion and magic, and with its birth they grew even more.

That is the origin of the lands before the present day. A great war fell upon the lands and wiped out nearly everyone in its wake. This war was between the new gods of the lands and the devotion of their followers. In the end the land was war torn and ruined. The people who survived rebuilt and regrew their nation, still struggling but strong. The land, plagued with undead, caused hardship for all those who lived there and nearly ruined the rebirth of the nation.

Under the guidance of the new lord of the land it persevered and became a hearty and thriving nation once again.

Lord Sir Elwin O'Bearikin rules over Stonewood as a dictatorship. His word is final in all things and his decrees are law. He uses this power to ensure that all of his people are well taken care of. All food is provided, shelter available and health and well being sought to. All titles under the lord are job positions, such as Stable Master, Marshal, and Mayor.

Within the lands of Stonewood, there are several distinct landmarks. These locations are helpful for all visitors to know, and where to exercise caution.

Stonewood Proper: The capital of the country and home to the lord of the land.

Starhaven: A thriving border city where much of the nation's commerce happens.

Silverglade Forest: This enchanted forest is one that all should be wary of entering. Few who enter are seen again.

The Tower: The home of the Novem, the pantheon of gods that are worshiped by the people.

Haven: The floating Necropolis that hovers over the lands housing most of the sentient undead, such as vampires, liches, and the like.

New Hope: This town is a shining example of what the future of Stonewood will look like, free of corruption and fear.

The Dark Chapel: This is home to a great and ancient evil that even the gods are cautious of.

Stonewood is a mix of farmland, forest, mountains and swamp. Many locations are dead and decayed by the influence of the necromantic energies present, and others are war-scarred and still have not recovered. It’s clear that the heavy hand of rulership is due to the destruction these lands have faced.

While Stonewood doesn’t truly have subnations within its borders, Sharangil is a nation of its own accord that has fallen under the protectorate of Stonewood. No nation member may hold royal title under the lord, so any who join the nation who possess land must rid themselves of that land or sign it over to the lord. Sharangil came under the protectorate from the joining of Celtrex. This land will be returned to his care in the event of his separation from Stonewood.

Stonewood has the general worship of the Novem. The pantheon of gods live in the lands around their tower, in physical forms. There are many different ways of worship in both Stonewood and the greater Realms, so it is hard to say what would be unique. Few people outside of Stonewood, if any, worship the Novem.

While there are no large current celebrations that occur to the greater Realms there are many celebrations that take place within the lands. Standard holidays are observed as are specialty holidays for the Novem.

In addition to this celebrations are held weekly where all people are invited to the capital to come together and enjoy the great feast that is provided for them and enjoy the bonfires, music and entertainment. It is a service provided by the lord to give thanks to all the hard work everyone does for the country.

The national drink of Stonewood is known as Blue Death. The recipe is secret and its distribution is scarce. It is known as the drink of the gods.

Stonewood has grown and shrunk over the years but its ideals haven't waivered. Do what is right by any means necessary. We may not always be nice but we always try our best to do what is right.

---

(OOC: Stonewood is most known for their commitment to excellence in questing. It is mostly made up of veteran players with a wealth of experience and resources to draw on, and their clear and effective chain of command enables them to work together to get the job done. They do their best work when they are on the front lines against whatever threats the Realms faces. This isn't always the front line of a battle but at the front of any encounter, be it fight, puzzle or quest.

Stonewood is a tight knit group of people. We know each other well and we protect each other. While some of us may seem gruff, if you are interested in learning more, come talk to us. We will take the time for those interested in the conversation.)

Word from the West - Exotic Items, Creatures, and Wares

Written by: Zack "Tony" Emmert

Organized by: Brookelyn "Rowan" Gingras

Deckard Cain,

I hope this letter finds you well. After observing the adventurers from the Realms as they recovered the nine knowledge veils from each realm of Hell, and successfully defeated both Kasadya and Drygha, I find myself impressed. Much as they did in defeating Lord Martanos, they have displayed remarkable potential as allies, and I believe they are worthy of further support. Their power in both blade and magic is growing steadily, and I believe they may prove to be critical allies.

As they successfully rescued me from Kasadya’s forces, saving my life in the process, I have seen fit to welcome one of their number into the Horadrim as an Initiate, and they have chosen for themself four apprentices. I see considerable potential in all of them, and I think they might just be the hope we need to defeat Malthael.

-Jacob Staalek

 P.S: Additionally, the sword that had once chosen me is in their possession. And though it is no longer mine to wield, it is clear that it is borne with honor, and righteous intent. It may be in my hands no longer, but it continues to be a part of our cause nonetheless.

What You Missed - Exotic Items, Creatures, & Wares 4

Written by: Emma "Chrysanta" Harvey

Hello Friends!

If you haven’t met me, I am called Dream Mender Chrysanta Morris, Oathsworn of Voraniss! You may not know this but I have been quite timid but eager to write on The View since I am still very new to the Realms! Please forgive me if my account is a little fuzzy at parts as my main form of worship to the god I follow, God Galbash, is sleeping. I will give the best account a sleepy Faun can give!

Now, to start us off, we have been fortunate enough to know that a lot of Voranians have good rapport with many of the Novem, the Stonewood pantheon of Gods. So we made sure to remind everyone to keep their needs, feelings, and any special offerings in mind during our time searching for Horadric Stones, fragments of memories of Horadrim passed on. We also did a lot of fighting against undead as we started this search through many rifts. Seven in total!

(Not all at once, mind you but let me get back on track–)

Once all of that madness was over, most tucked in for the evening but Voraniss and a few others participated in a Voranian Wish Burning ceremony. For those unaware, it is a time to wish for something before the coming harvest in the autumn. Not everyone shared their wishes but I will share mine: I wished for continued strength for our family, our pack, our nation!

The next morning came to us with the brave nation of Invictus leading a charge against Mana Golems! It was so scary and loud, I had to excuse myself to the little Faun’s room… However, Invictus was more than able to fight through! And won! Yay!

That’s when it came to our attention that we had been taking too much from the Novem and not giving enough. The Novem are very persnickety when it comes to asking for their favor and I knew exactly what to do! That’s when I made sure to organize a ritual circle to offer a sacrifice to them, thanking the gods for their continued assistance while we were in their lands. (A quick thank you to my mentor Friend Merrix and his adorable familiar Friend Váya, Friend Zula, and Friend Tao for participating in this ritual. It was the first time I felt confident in leading a ritual and I am very glad to have had all of your help!)

It was then time to start going through the rifts, we were led by a Horadrim (was it…. Joseph? Jordan? I am so sorry, Friend!). Each rift had its own… let’s say, unique quality to it. With Dire Bats [Friend Rowan, you need to help control your bat friends!], Undead, Demons, and many more! All of the rifts contained one of the seven stones we needed, including a different trial attached to each rift, but before nightfall, we had at least three of the seven stones.

I was only able to observe through my dreams the events of that night as I had already seen in a Prophecy of a powerful item known as the Soul Crucible being guarded by a minion of The Rogue Angel Malthael known as Drygha. Luckily, my friends were more than capable of destroying such an awful thing and defeating that horrible minion! There was also this very scary Demon simply known as “The Butcher”! Very scary! Though, from what I understand, there was a price to pay for the safety of Friend Hygar who almost lost his life to the Soul Crucible and now everyone physically present now has to owe God Thane a favor.

As morning came once more, we were able to finish with three more rifts and gain three more stones. Trials that felt more difficult than the battles against the bats and undead… Before we thought we were to enter the seventh and final one, a leader of the Horadrim known as Friend Deckard Cain appeared before us with a familiar face. Friend Deckard Cain then informed us of what our other Horadrim friend, Friend Jacob (I remembered his name!) used to be the champion of Justice and the previous owner of the sword El’Druin?! (Very powerful!) So he went to the final rift while we were away and helped us get the final stone as a thank you for obtaining the other six.

While my report comes to a close and I reflect on this weekend, I want to quickly say thank you to all of our friends who showed up as everyone was a wonderful help no matter how little they believed they contributed.

I have been meditating more and more on the concept of “Good and Evil”, something that I only know mostly through fairy tales and other stories from my home back in the mors of the Fae Wilds. I know not everyone is truly good nor truly evil, if I’m honest. After all, The Rogue Angel was once a being of good: an angel. I say this not to point fingers at who is ‘good’ or ‘evil’ in our realm, but to reflect that even those with the purest of hearts can easily be tainted. We all need to reflect on that, even me.

We need to stick together. We all are fighting for one cause: to protect the Realms we live in. I am but a Faun navigating a world who hears I am Fae and assumes the worst. I understand many of you are hurt from what people of my birthplace have done. I cannot change that past for you nor can my apologies wash away the blood they spilled. What I hope to do is let you know that I am a friend to all who wish it and I am here to mend the world. One dream at a time.

Sweetest of Dreams,

Dream Mender

Chrysanta Morris

Friend of the Realms

Why I Want To Go - Exotic Items, Creatures, & Wares 4

Written by: Adrian "Cronin" & Matt “Zula” Daviault

Once more my countrymen prepare themselves, to meet doom and destiny in the lands of Stonewood. A place that has welcomed adventurers for decades, in an intricate plot which continues to build upon the past while creating exciting opportunities for the future. I’ve brought many first time eventers to Stonewood in the past, all have carried grand stories home. Similarly Stonewood is a great place to return to if you’ve been taking time off from adventure and need to remember why we all do this in the first place.

Travis and his team are dedicated to their values and hold strong to them. Immersion, difficulty and excitement are paramount in their design but safe fighting and safe mechanics are just as important to them. They’ve had decades to balance their approach and the wisdom of experience shines through.

The Stonewood Pantheon is exciting to deal with because they often send their champions(or come themselves, though sometimes uh oh) to speak with adventurers in their lands. This gives non-seer folk the opportunity to interact directly with the gods. This is particularly great for fighters who often rely on casters or puzzles for all of their information which can make one feel disconnected at times.

My first Stonewood event was in 2017. It was in the aftermath of saving  that village from an undead invasion, that I formed the Broken Spears Free Company. Not long after, we joined Voraniss and they gave me “Azurewrath”, without even knowing how hooked I was on Stonewood plot. I’ve had the pleasure and privilege of battling against evil with it ever since.

I want to go because I know it will be hard but rewarding, and I will have the strength of the pack at my side. I want to go to support an event holding team I believe in. The wolves march north. Will you join us?

-Cronin

Word from the West - The Gilded Lion and Silver Branch Summer Festival III [Ft. Stonewood]

Written by: Travis "Elwin" Wilcox

Organized by: Brookelyn "Rowan" Gingras

A letter intercepted under suspicion of conspiracy.

Deckard,

       I have been informed that the tomb of Lord Martanos has been sacked. The skeletal guards had been dispatched, the tomb opened and Lord Martanos himself had been slain. I also write to inform you that what he guarded has been taken as well. It seems that the adventurers who have become involved in all these plots have found their way in. I can only relay the information I have, but to accomplish such a task means that they are truly a group of strength. Not only were they strong enough to defeat the guards but some among them must have had great powers in magic.

        With what I have divined, it seems that my initial postulations were true. The adventures were indeed powerful in blade and spell but also in number. In my vision I recognized several heraldries among the group and even divided some of their names, although some details were lost in blur.

        It seemed like they had bypassed our lock with ease and handily dealt with the guards within. I must say they are proving more worthy of our help than I first believed. Perhaps they are strong enough to join forces with us. I do hope that they truly are fighting for the salvation of humanity. I look forward to your response and wisdom in this matter.

Mahsali bin Kazmi

What you Missed - The Lost Ruins

Well. We survived. What did you miss from the Lost Ruins? A lot of manual labor that’s what. But let me backup. 

The adventures of the Realms ventured North in Stonewood to investigate some ruins that were uncovered by archeologists there. These ruins happened to be near this big bad Chapel. The thing inside is scary. Last time someone knocked on the door, everyone within 10 feet lost a third of their soul (ticked), everyone within 50 feet had their souls ripped from their body. And everyone within 100 miles died. So everyone was given ample warnings before our expedition to stay away from the Chapel. Zula would be sitting by with a big stick and lawn chair to make sure of it. 

When we arrived at the ruins, the archeologists showed us a table. Thankfully. Merrix and Hygar had done prior research to learn how to operate it. But first, we had to power it. And, we were on a timer. There were many magical batteries around the area; many of which required copious amounts of physical labor. Some highlights included using rope to move a bucket from one platform to another, killing 100 undead within an arena, and carrying 150 tiny rocks, which took two hands to maneuver, all the way across the area through the mud and past all the undead trying to kill us.

While this was happening, Aelias was being hunted by Thane’s Champion, who slew anything that got between him and his target. This was a tough battle, and it led to magic leaving the area which was unideal. It was a hard fight, one which will continue another day. 

We also had to deal with Malthael’s agents during all of this. Many including Stewhart, Tulkhan, and Shandar challenged these Greater Reapers, helping to push them back. 

As the timer ticked down, smoke began to emanate from the Chapel. It was quite scary, chasing down Hygar even as he attempted to teleport away Kindrianna took her stand, and with the power of Solarus and Vandor was able to fight back.

Eventually, the table was fully powered, and Hygar and Merrix took their positions. Before my eyes, Hygar vanished; leaving behind all of his stuff. It was quite alarming. I apparently followed soon after, alongside Kindrianna, Tulkhan, Avendar, and Merrix. I do not remember what happened her, as. I returned a while later in a pile of goo. But eventually after some effort my soul was called and I was raised. We all made it out. Hygar activated the escape dirt we were all given, and we returned to the castle to fight another day.

Until next time

Page Margaret August

Settler of Voraniss

OOC:

Stonewood events will always hold a special place in my heart. It was the first time I got to quest with Voraniss, and it was amazing to be able to continue that tradition this year. The NPCs and Staff put in an amazing amount of work and hold themselves to a high standard. And so I wanted to thank them for all the work they put in. 

Why I Want to Go - The Lost Ruins: A Stonewood Quest

by Adam "Tulkhan" Blaisdell

I was never one for ancient relics, artifacts, or even the pursuit of knowledge. My pack never taught me these things. What it did teach is those who are strong aid those who are not able. Once again we venture into the lands of Stonewood for they have called for our aid, and too many threats linger within the border for us not to answer, be it an archangel, Greater demon, or champion angered. I have spent much time in Stonewood as of late and what I can say is something is not right. If these ruins have any sort of answer, key, or power that can help in setting things the way they should be set, then we must venture forth. Though, as with most times the danger and risk are always there by our side.

Many meetings have been had leading up to this. Plans set and contingencies thought out… Just in case. I don't write this in hopes you will come adventuring, in hopes for you to explore a country I have a liking to. No, I write this because, in all my time entering Stonewood, I have never feared losing this much. I don't know what is at this dig site, I don't know what may try to kill us, and I don’t even know if all of us will return. But, What I do know is that if you can help, can aid in any way, if you can make it to Stonewood to fight alongside me and the others already preparing, I would gladly accept.

 -Shadowstalker Tulkhan
Thane of the Southern Forest and Spirit Queen's Champion

OOC: 

I have said it before, and I will say it again. I love Stonewood events. I love the immersion the plot team brings. I love the emotion I feel walking into the quests. I love that gut-wrenching feeling of “We could lose this.” I have never been disappointed at one of these events. They are normally combat-heavy (Enough so that I never seem to see the NPCs take breaks) and the puzzles are challenging enough to be rewarding when you finally complete them. If you are looking for something that will make you tired, sore, and feel so accomplished that you survived, come. My words don't do it justice nor will they truly describe the experience. All I can really say is you will not be disappointed.

Song for Solarus

 Written by Renee "Kindrianna" Booke

I sing a song of peace and war,

To remind us what’s worth fighting for.

And though the battle’s here today,

We stand our ground to find a way.

Back to laughter, joy, and light,

A sunrise and a moonlit night.

Snow-capped mountains, emerald fields,

We will be your stalwart shields.

Family dinners, laughter’s mirth,

Homes in cities, towns, and earth.

Art and music, fabled story,

Acts of love and unsung glory,

Special tastes of a home-cooked meal,

Simple joys that help us heal.

Defend them all with righteous sword,

Each goodly person, babe, or Lord.

Raise the banner, pound the drum,

Let them come! Let them come!

For all these gifts we make our stand,

In this or any threatened land.

I sing a song of peace and war,

To remind us what’s worth fighting for.

And though the battle’s here today,

We stand our ground to find a way.

Back to laughter, joy, and light,

A sunrise and a moonlit night.

Why I Want to Go to Exotic Wares this weekend:

 by Tim Suitor (James Swift)

IC:

I have already reached out to the adventurers of the Realms for aid in this endeavor, but with the time drawing near, I call out for help again.  Sometimes we have the opportunity to do some good, or at least remove some evil, from the world.  We have the chance to purge the evil from a wretched sword, and remove several powerful and malicious beings from the world.  

The lands I call home are an… exciting place.  It will not be an easy day, a conflux of occurrences like this in Stonewood seldom is.  But if you can muster yourself to face the dangers, please join me, and help not just me, but the people of Stonewood.

I have sent what fortifications I can to the town to keep it safe for our arrival, and they should get by, but when we get there, we will be able to turn the tide of battle, and defeat the evils coming into our land, defeat the evil of the sword Shadow Fang, and seal the portal. .

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out, if you'll be there, please let me know so I can plan for it.

Yours,

James Swift

Magi of the Realms

Cofounder of the Loken-Swift Library

Head Counselor of Camp Hope

Stablemaster of Stonewood

Honorable Cardinal of Chaos

OOC:

 I am not on staff.  I am not a PC-NPC at this event, I am a full player.  And that for me is one of the big reasons I am as excited and nervous as I am.  Unfortunately, a tragic part of joining a nation is that you often end up NPCing for them forever.  I have NPCed and Event Held with Travis for years.  But I loved Travis’s style and events long before I joined his nation, and the giddy excitement and trepidation of going to an event where there are actual consequences for actions has had me buzzing for the last month and a half.

This event is dredging up an old event series because my character acquired an evil magic sword and is trying to make it less evil.  After a good while of working on it, the Marshal for this plot decided what I was trying to do was to big for just Roleplaying or even a miniquest, so Travis is throwing an entire event for it.  Which I hella appreciate.  To be clear, this also isnt Travis helping his buddy Tim out.  I’ve seen him do similar for other players who want to run with something particular from his plot, and I promise that this hasnt been easy, I’ve had months of homework I’ve been working on, which hopefully will all pay off, but also, I’ll be paying back In Character debts for the next year, including needing to write one of the Stonewood gods a 50 page novel!  But hey, I have the support of the god of Knowledge!

If you are interested, please reach out to me, and if you plan on going, the Event Holder Travis Wilcox does need full Magic and Item Prereg, or things wont work!

You want to earn a “James Swift: I owe you one”?  Come to Exotic Wares!