Alonis of Blackwood
Among many northern tribes of Midgard there is a tradition. Because the distances are vast and travel difficult, it is often not possible to return a warrior's remains after battle. So a trusted friend takes responsibility for returning their shield or weapon to the clan. This object becomes a stand-in for funerary rites, then is hung in the hall as a memorial. The people of Alonis have learned that Ser Tuilli attempted this for Torolf from the very shores of Valhalla. Though this event happens in a future timeline, it has earned him great respect among the people of Alonis. They have taken to calling him Shield Bearer, and he will always have a seat in the great hall.
Areas Along the Northern Border of the Lost Kingdoms
An influx of elemental energy seems to have filled the area. Despite being deep into fall and with winter approaching quickly, plants and trees seem to be bursting with life and new growth. Some say that even fire has regained so of its warmth and potency in the area, whereas before one could stand in a fire with no risk of being burned. Faithful have reported being able to feel the touch of their gods more clearly in the area as well.
Chimeron
Rumor had it that a group of orcs has taken up residence in the caves under Chimeron. These "Dark Orcs" are said to be strengthened by some power, and react with violence to any spelunkers who trespass in their domain.
Zimeya, ARound SNake U
Locals uneasily report noises throughout the days and nights that have picked up in recent weeks. Hideous groaning and crying seems to originate from Esper's lab, and coupled with missing snake guardians and sightings of weird eggs, those around Snake U are wary.
Across the realms
Messages are once again sent out for the good people of the Realms to not be alarmed that a dragon is opening its hoard to others. The missives are the same as last year by all estimates. Any who write and deposit a letter at Black and White will receive a response and maybe a gift. Letters are to contain what is asked for so that the dragon may choose gifts as appropriate. Gifts will then be dispersed by an ambassador at a later point. All exchanges are peace bound and in good faith. It's been noticed that weapons and armor tend not to be shared.
Some murmur that the responses this last year from the gift giving dragon have been lacking, or missing. This corresponds to an increase in activity of a guild of red cloak wearing hunters.
Many dreamers have reported having a similar or the same dream. In this dream a three feminine voices speak as once. They tell tale of the return of a goddess in a white dress with a sword, shield and helmet opening the gateway that has kept the divine forces locked out of the south. It is unclear who these voices are, but many suspect that they seem to be speaking of the lost child goddess Tana Torne.
Throughout various areas travelers speak of encountering a farmer on the road selling fresh produce. Any who have purchased anytime from this man report that the man seemed very happy and smiling upon making the sale. However, when people have gone looking to locate the farmer after the fact, he has been nowhere to be seen.
