The Covetowne Gazette

[Linaeus]

The Covetowne Gazette - Also better than the Trinsic Beacon

The Gazette is now accepting donations. All Sketches contained within are completely accurate. The Gazette is not responsible for emotional, physical, or financial harm inflicted by the reading, possession, or, in rare cases, burning of this pamphlet.

Torrak Keres Killed In Action


Cove, Vesper, and Yew face off in New Haven.

Last evening was a grim evening indeed, as several skirmishes with the Yewish Militia occurred throughout Cove, Vesper, New Haven, and Stonekeep. Participating in almost all of these was Covian Hero Torrak Keres. Unfortunately, preliminary reports have stated that "The Keres" did not survive the last of these encounters.

The first battle took place early in the evening, with several Yewlanders making an attempt on Commander Raiden Morana's life, in retaliation for some  undoubtedly imagined offense. However, the alarm was raised and aid promptly arrived, defeating several of the Loyalist scum and forcing the rest to withdraw without accomplishing their objective. The Loyalists had failed in their pathetic attempts to slay one of Cove's Finest.

Later in day, sources state, Mercenary Keres was leading a small group of three or four Covians on a recruitment expedition in New Haven. They spent nearly an hour there, bolstering the ranks of the Company and Cove's Citizenry. All seemed to be going well, when, suddenly, the Yewish and Vesperian Militias marched into the square. Vesper, seemingly lost, merely stood off to the side while the Yewish quickly set about their usual routine - attempting to provoke the well-disciplined Covians into initiating a fight. Keres, it is said, spent much time while his men traded insults with the Yewish, trying to convince the large Vesperian force present to come to his men's aid.

"Surely," he said, "If you don't help us rid New Haven of these scum now, they will turn on you as well as soon as we've been routed!"

However, his pleas fell on deaf ears. Vesper, citing the recent Civil War, refused to come to the rescue of the Covian squad. The Covians braced for battle as the Yewish took aim. Just when it seemed that four of Cove's Finest were to be swept away by the cowardly puddle of grey-clad sheeplovers before them, Keres gave the order to do the unthinkable; Retreat! The Squad quickly withdrew from the Square, as Yewish arrows whirred uselessly past.

But Keres would not be intimidated by the Yewish and return home a coward, so he ordered his men to return to New Haven with orders not to engage them except to aid the Vesperians. When the Covians arrived they found the Yewish routed.

Grave news came, however, as one of the Vesperians reported that Captain Escaflowne had been captured. Keres and his brave men braced themselves for the coming conflict, and extended an offer of aid to the already battle-weary Vesperians. They accepted, and the four Covians marched alongside the red-clad Vesperians into the heart of Stonekeep. Up the stairs of the prison they marched, and they knocked heavily on the grimly-wrought iron doors. A hapless Yewlander, not expecting to see the might of the North on the doorstep, flung open the doors and the combined Vespero-Covian force stormed into the prison and rescued their Captain.

Upon returning to the Vesperian Militia Headquarters, however, the force found themselves pursued by Yewish reinforcements. Rallying to face their common foe, the Yewish were easily beaten back. Keres dismissed his men, and began walking back to Cove with Recruit Leander Le Blanc.

What happened next is somewhat unclear, but what has been learned has made even this stoic reporter tremble with rage. As the already wounded Torrak Keres reached the barracks, several armed Yewlanders sprung out of the shadows and felled he and Le Blanc in a cowardly ambush. Cove's Hero, a veteran of many a conflict, an idol to his men, the primary source of material for this paper, and famous storyteller...

...had been murdered by revenge-crazed, violence-loving, cowardly Yewlanders on Covian Soil!

Even worse, Le Blanc stated that he saw a Templar of the Avatarian Church aiding in the Ambush! Has the Yewish Church forsaken Valor, Honor, Honesty? Justice? These are grim times indeed, when even the Clergy cannot be depended on to show a shred of decency. Corruption in the Yewish Church is obviously as rampant as it is in the Yewish Militia!

What will Cove do to avenge this great loss? Will Yew be made to pay for their aggression? Will Vesper and Cove band together once more under the common banner, not of the Vesper Trade Union, but of The Northern Alliance? Pray that they do, dear reader, and, Avatar willing, there will be brighter days ahead.

- Linaeus C. Blackwind, Editor in Chief, Reporter General, Primary Publisher,
                                      Writer, and Distributor.
                                     The Covetowne Gazette

- Aided by Lucius I. Edwards, Reporter and Crier.

(OOC Note: The names in the journals in screenshots are not IC knowledge under any circumstances. This newspaper is liberally tossed about on the ground and front steps throughout town the morning after it is printed, and the stories in it are IC information. The names mentioned -in the text- may be treated as IC information.)

[Linaeus]

The Covetowne Gazette - Also better than the Trinsic Beacon

The Gazette is now accepting donations. All Sketches contained within are completely accurate. The Gazette is not responsible for emotional, physical, or financial harm inflicted by the reading, possession, or, in rare cases, burning of this pamphlet.

Church Attacked!

This evening Cove was shocked upon discovering that a brutal triple-murder had been committed on the very steps of the Church. Yet more disconcerting Covians was the shocking realization that the Church was, in fact, on fire. Mercenaries and Citizens briefly struggled against the fire before eventually extinguishing the fire. Luckily, the Church suffered only superficial damage. The same cannot be said for the three people murdered outside - all of whom suffered several shooting, stabbing, and slashing wounds. One was allegedly even stomped on several times.

The Church was, as expected, unavailable for comment on the matter. Therefore, the Gazette will take this opportunity to state that it is generally assumed the Church would've said the following;

"The heathens who didst commit this vile and heretical act shalt be brought swiftly to justice."

Who exactly is responsible for this crime is unclear, but the Company assures us that they will be taking all necessary measures to capture the culprit(s) and bring bring them to justice.

In other news...
Torrak Keres isnt actually dead.
Patrols to the Orc Fort have become increasingly dangerous as a more intelligent band of Orcs seems to have taken up residence there.
There are rumors going around that a Cult of Guardian-worshippers has moved into Town.

- Linaeus C. Blackwind, Editor in Chief, Reporter General, Primary Publisher,
                                      Writer, and Distributor.
                                     The Covetowne Gazette

(OOC Note: The names in the journals in screenshots are not IC knowledge under any circumstances. This newspaper is liberally tossed about on the ground and front steps throughout town the morning after it is printed, and the stories in it are IC information. The names mentioned -in the text- may be treated as IC information.)

[Linaeus]

11th March 2009
----

The Covetowne Gazette - The only real newspaper there is.

The Gazette is now accepting donations. All Sketches contained within are completely accurate. The Gazette is not responsible for emotional, physical, or financial harm inflicted by the reading, possession, or, in rare cases, burning of this pamphlet.

Recruits Kidnapped, Tortured

The recent kidnapping and torturing of two recruits and almost nightly attacks in Covianshire have been attributed to a Cult of Guardian Worshipers. The group allegedly arrived in Cove early last week, posing as travelling Monks, and quickly set about their dark doings. Just as rumors of their presence were only beginning to circulate, they found their first victim; Mercenary Recruit Me'an Silen. The elf was apparently found in a set of ruins, badly burned, with his hands pinned to an old altar with daggers. Although he was rescued in time, he is still recovering from his injuries.

Later that week, Recruit Abigail Keres - sister of infamous economy killer and recruit murderer Torrak Keres - was also attacked. She was found with her hands and feet nailed to the very same altar in the same way as Recruit Silen. Furthermore, she was cut in several places and her clothes had been stripped away. It seems that the heretics' plan was for the poor girl to freeze to death.

"Dey obviously nay evah met som'ones s'from Daggar Isle, t'ijjits." remarked Torrak Keres.

Miss Keres was also rescued in time, and has since been treated and released from the Hospital. We at the Gazette wish her a restfull and speedy recovery.

However, the events of this past weekend suggest that relaxation will not be an option. According to Recruit Silen, the Cultists, through some vile ritual that the Gazette will not even begin to speculate as to the details of, burnt away their skin and now exist as walking skeletons! It seems that when the Church is away, the Guardian will play. Sources within the Company state that patrols and sentries in Covianshire have become increasingly dangerous as Orcs and Undead become increasingly bold in their attacks.

Will the Company see to it that this threat is quickly eliminated? Will the Church intervene and drive these vile creatures back to the abyss? What is certain is that for the time being, nowhere in Covianshire or the Glenmores is safe. Sources withing the Company have futher stated that it is recommended that no one travel alone or unarmed through Covianshire until further notice. For now, the casualties continue to mount.

In other news...
Sentries along the Vesper-Altmere road have been ambushed.
Orcs and Undead have made forays into the Household itself.
Recruits Abigail Keres and Leander Le Blanc are reportedly dating.
Torrak Keres has allegedly assaulted and threatened Recruit Le Blanc.
Commander Morana is engaged to a Swaggers Barmaid.


- Linaeus C. Blackwind, Editor in Chief, Reporter General, Primary Publisher,
                                      Writer, and Distributor.
                                     The Covetowne Gazette

(OOC Note: The names in the journals in screenshots are not IC knowledge under any circumstances. This newspaper is liberally tossed about on the ground and front steps throughout town the morning after it is printed, and the stories in it are IC information. The names mentioned -in the text- may be treated as IC information.)

[Linaeus]

The Covetowne Gazette - The Least Biased Newpasper In The World

The Gazette is now accepting donations. All Sketches contained within are completely accurate. The Gazette is not responsible for emotional, physical, or financial harm inflicted by the reading, possession, or, in rare cases, burning of this pamphlet.

Altmere Burning

Corpses piled high, blood running in rivers to the bay, hundreds of carrion birds circling overhead, a stench worse than that of the vilest of wytches’ dens – this is the current scene in the Loyalist-occupied Covian province of Altmere. The Yewish militia, under direct order by Captain Bladius Dart, has set about forcefully removing the native Altmerians to make room for immigrant sheep farmers. Those who refuse to move, and those who cannot move, have their property seized and they are given the choice to either flee their homes or face a Yewish sword. The Word of the Worker describes this as “…the careful management of the Yewish Militia.”

Is this what the Loyalists call prosperity? Surely the Yewish do not judge their success on how much innocent blood they can spill? Or do they? Let us examine the many other times that the Butcher’s Militia has lied to the world to justify the slaughter of innocents;

The Mill Massacre, obviously engineered by pro-war elements of the Yewish Militia, was blamed on the Covian Army. Are Yew’s borders so insecure that a Covian detachment could slip, unseen, into the heart of their city, slaughter a dozen innocent civilians, and then casually march out? I say nay! How, then, did a dozen Yewish citizens suddenly turn up dead? The answer, dear reader, is simple. As the Border Wars ground to a halt and a stalemate was beginning to develop, it seemed imminent that the Yewish plan for conquest would be thwarted – their dream of grazing their sheep on the verdant plains of Altmere would never come true. But deep in the dark and sinister fortress of Stonekeep, their vile Captain devised an equally vile plan. He would rally the Militia, no matter what the cost – and, indeed, that cost would prove to be great. It is no coincidence that only a few days after the massacre, the Loyalist Horde finally crossed the river into the borderlands.

Another fabrication of the Yewish warmongers is the false claim that Cove has inflicted any manner of harm upon the good people of New Haven. Quite the contrary, Cove has journeyed to Haven on several occasions to remind the people that they do not stand alone against their Yewish tormentors. For weeks, concerned citizens of New Haven have been taking members of the Company aside to beg them for aid – saying the Yewish have bullied them, taken their homes for use as barracks, savagely beaten dissenters, murdered those who do not bow to their will, and forcefully conscripted their children into the Yewish militia. Not content to commit the atrocities, the Loyalist scum have seen fit to accuse Cove of them!

Does this look like a raid to -you-?

I was not aware that libel is legal in Yew. I was shocked to find that murder, torture, unjust imprisonment, and forceful occupation of a friendly state are common Yewish practices. I was horrified to learn that the Church of Yew has at every turn supported the Militia’s ever growing quest for blood.

Now, as the Yewish Militia grows bored of bullying and harassing the innocent people of New Haven, it looks to Altmere for its next fix. Will the world stand idly by while innocent people are forced from their homes under threat of torture and death? While the bloodthirsty Yewish war machine grinds ever closer to its ultimate goal of world domination? While rogue states such as Yew spread chaos and war, even as foul monsters and evil men wander the streets of Trinsic, Britain, Skara Brae, Vesper, Minoc, and even Yew itself? Or will the world open its eyes and finally see Yew for what it truly is – a cesspool of hatred, corruption, warmongering, and greed?

In other news...
Torrak Keres has been promoted to Corporal.
Undead and Orcs have been harassing travellers in Covianshire.
New Haven has asked the Company to guard its streets against Yewish banditry.
The Northern Alliance has been disbanded; future Vespero-Covian relations uncertain.
Yew's Word of the Worker newspaper revealed to be blatanly libelous.

- Linaeus C. Blackwind, Editor in Chief, Reporter General, Primary Publisher,
                                      Writer, and Distributor.
                                     The Covetowne Gazette

- Aided by Lucius I. Edwards, Reporter and Crier.

(OOC Note: The names in the journals in screenshots are not IC knowledge under any circumstances. This newspaper is liberally tossed about on the ground and front steps throughout town the morning after it is printed, and the stories in it are IC information. The names mentioned -in the text- may be treated as IC information.)

[Raiden Morana]

*A letter printed on behalf of Commander Morana to the readers of the Covetowne Gazette*

After hearing of Captain Dart's comments in the Word Of The Worker I feel that I must address the readers of the Covetowne Gazette in a similar fashion. Though, to be fair, today's news is often tomorrow's bog paper in my house.

I share the Captain's concerns that elements within Cove, Yew, Vesper and indeed beyond, concern themselves with trying to fuel the rivalry between our towns in the hope that it escalates into open hostility. I can also confirm that the Captain and myself have and will continue to discuss various avenues to maintain the relative peace between Cove and Yew, as I believe we both understand where the next threat to a peaceful and prosperous Sosaria lies.

However, it concerns me to hear that Captain Dart may be ill informed by his advisors on certain issues.

While I'm heartened and encouraged to hear that the Captain has never "sanctioned" Yewish intervention in the Altmere, the fact remains that the Company garrison at the outpost there was actually situated within Covian borders and therefore Yewish forces had no right to assault it.

Though, it's somewhat understandable, in uncertain times such as these, that misguided events often transpire and perhaps the Waywatchers require better map reading skills or leadership. I would also like to make it absolutely clear that were it not for the absenteeism of the Loyalist forces charged with the security of the Altmere, the Company would not have been begged by it's inhabitants to offer aid in the first place.

As for the events reported in New Haven, I'd rather not comment directly. I believe the recent happenings there are plain enough for even the most narrow sighted of observers to see.

Raiden Morana, Commander.
For and on behalf of the Company and the Baronship Council.

[Linaeus]

26th March 2009
-------

The Covetowne Gazette - The Least Biased Newpasper In The World

The Gazette is now accepting donations. All Sketches contained within are completely accurate. The Gazette is not responsible for emotional, physical, or financial harm inflicted by the reading, possession, or, in rare cases, burning of this pamphlet.

Torrak Keres; Hopeless or Heroic?

Corporal Keres issues notice of eviction to occupying Vesperians' captain.

Corporal Torrak Keres is perhaps the most controversial figure currently living in Cove. During his seven months as a member of first the Covian Army, then  The Company, he has overcome a long series of setbacks and become one of the most hated and yet most loved citizens of Cove. But how did this seemingly incompetent, bumbling fool survive this long? To answer this question, we must look back to his life before joining the Army;

Torrak Keres was born some thirty six years ago to two poverty-stricken inhabitants of a small town on Dagger Isle. When he came of age, Torrak Keres enlisted in the town's militia. What exactly drove him to leave the island is unclear, but one is driven by his deeds in Cove to assume that he either killed a recruit or single-handedly obliterated the economy.

What is certain is that roughly seven months ago Keres enlisted in the Covian Army, and the town has been slowly spiralling towards destruction since.

However, it would seem that his subordinates in the Company hold him in high regards, despite his obvious lack of any leadership ability, fighting skill, or basic intelligence whatsoever.

We at the Gazette cannot begin to imagine why his men like Corporal Keres, with his strange fascination with walruses, dark sense of humor (see; "single handedly obliterated the economy"), and tendency to accidentally mortally wound recruits.

Torrak Keres - Why isnt he dead yet?

Vesper Makes Common Mistake

This past Sunday, the militia of the Republic of Vesper, led by their obviously bewildered and overeager new Captain, Damien Bedford, accidentally invaded Covianshire. Covian forces, led by the notorious Corporal Torrak Keres, quickly moved to remove the innocent interlopers from what they honestly believed to be their own land. The fools.

The resulting violence left dozens wounded, and saw the Vesperians unintentionally capture and successfully defend a foothold in the Covian province of Covianshire. However, the poor, confused souls believed they were in Vesparicia Province! Hahah!

Similar mistakes have been made in the past by everyone from the Royal Guard to an Orc Horde, to crazed Kaldorians, to bloodthirsty Yewlanders, to Skara Braeans. The one thing all of these groups have in common seems to be a general inability to remember exactly where their territory ends and the territory of the Baronship of Cove begins. Really, does Covianshire look like part of Vesper to you? The distinct lack of even a single bridge suggests that it does not!

Unfortunately, it seems the Vesperians' ignorance of their own borders may lead to an even larger conflict. Let us hope that no Covians get "lost" in Vesparicia, or we may have a border war on our hands!

The Vesperians - Someone please give them a map and sextant.

In other news...
Company enlistment rates reach all-time high as warriors from around the world flock to join.
Recruit Leander Le Blanc receives promotion to Mercenary, plus a medal for excellent writing skills.
The Baron is forced to hand over his favorite cap to a "hideous peon" prior to Sunday's Parade.
Former Commander Shadwell's leg indeed not growing back; hopes of many dashed.
Wife-to-be of Commander Morana savagely beaten, becomes most recent victim of the Undead and Orcs roaming Covianshire.

------------------------------------------------------

- Linaeus C. Blackwind, Editor in Chief, Reporter General, Primary Publisher,
                                      Writer, and Distributor.
                                     The Covetowne Gazette

- Aided by Lucius I. Edwards, Reporter and Crier.

(OOC Note: The names in the journals in screenshots are not IC knowledge under any circumstances. This newspaper is liberally tossed about on the ground and front steps throughout town the morning after it is printed, and the stories in it are IC information. The names mentioned -in the text- may be treated as IC information.)

[Linaeus]

The Covetowne Gazette - The Least Biased Newpasper In The World

The Gazette is now accepting donations. All Sketches contained within are completely accurate. The Gazette is not responsible for emotional, physical, or financial harm inflicted by the reading, possession, or, in rare cases, burning of this pamphlet.

Vesper Rising

Vesperian Invasion Force

This past Sunday, the Militia of the Republic of Vesper seized a complex of mining tunnels long considered Covian territory. It is generally believed that this was an attempt to cripple Cove's defenders by limiting their ore supply. Unfortunately for our redcloaked friends, they seem to have overlooked the Glenmores. However, this does little to excuse what can only be described as an undeclared war on Cove, instigated by the winner of the recent Vesperian elections, the treasonous and previously defeated former Captain Escaflowne.

Not content to drive innocent Covians from the border regions, the Vesperian swine are now attempting to drive Covian prospectors from the Covetous mountains. It seems that the fools have forgotten the last few wars they've waged against Cove. Most noteworthy, one in which Cove was granted exclusive rights to the aforementions Covetous mines.

Breaking treaties, attacking former allies, and driving innocent people from their homes seems to be a common theme in Vesper these days. With the warmonger Damien Bedford as Militia Captain, and the dimwit Escaflowne as Chancellor - both of them traitors to the nation they now lead - one supposes that this was inevitable. After all, Vesper always has been known to turn on its allies as soon as they're no longer useful.

What Vesper will do next is unclear. One wonders whether they'll next make a move to recapture the now loyalist-held City of Minoc. Or will they make further moves into Covianshire, and on to Cove itself? What is clear is that Vesper is on the warpath, and Cove is in its way.

In other news...
Aliryl Trefynwyd promoted to Officer Cadet - new Corporal on the rise?
Warriors continue to flock to Cove to join the Company.
Immigration rate reaches all time high.
Yew and Cove enjoy relative peace, as Vesper seeks to break it.
Commoner Raen missing after his home is burnt down, foul play evident.

------------------------------------------

- Linaeus C. Blackwind, Editor in Chief, Reporter General, Primary Publisher,
                                      Writer, and Distributor.
                                     The Covetowne Gazette

- Aided by Lucius I. Edwards, Reporter and Crier.


(OOC Note: The names in the journals in screenshots are not IC knowledge under any circumstances. This newspaper is liberally tossed about on the ground and front steps throughout town the morning after it is printed, and the stories in it are IC information. The names mentioned -in the text- may be treated as IC information.)

[Raiden Morana]

The Covetowne Gazette - Also better than the Trinsic Beacon

The Gazette is now accepting donations. All Sketches contained within are completely accurate. The Gazette is not responsible for emotional, physical, or financial harm inflicted by the reading, possession, or, in rare cases, burning of this pamphlet.

Festive Celebrations In Cove.

Last Saturday eve saw a festive treat in Cove as up and coming Commoner Penny Freckletip hosted a feast in the town square, which was followed by an egg hunt.

The feast was a grand occasion, visited by Commander Morana, Sergeant Hoagie and Burgher Axiana Takeamada as well as off duty Company members, townsfolk and travellers. With the feast and subsequent egg hunt, won by Mercenary Kado Gael, being such a success it is rumoured that Miss Freckletip will soon receive her Citizen Papers and become an accepted citizen of Cove.

Relations With Vesper Worsen.

It's rumoured that a Covian delegation returned from a meeting with Vesperian officials in poor spirits. My sources suggest that attempts made by Commander Morana to bring an end to the border dispute and reforge old alliances was rebuffed by Chancellor Escaflowne and Captain Bedford, who I am led to believe, were more interested in puffing their own chests and eyeing Vesper's future domination of the lands.

Meanwhile reports from outlying settlements throughout the Covian Shire claim livestock being slaughtered, resources being stolen, men, women and children being attacked or carried off. It is thought that the Vesperian Militia is behind these crimes.

In Other News.

The Baronship Council announces plans for a May Day weekend Festival in Cove.
The Commander's marriage to Railen of the Swaggers is thought to be just one of a number of events to take place during the three day festival.
Reports confirm that the Commoner Raen was killed in the recent fire at his home. Many locals point their finger at Vesper.
Off duty Company mercenaries apprehend mugger during a recent market held in Cove.
Yewish and Covians enjoy a harmonious evening at the Green Goblin tavern during one of Officer Cadet Trefynwyd's regular relaxation evenings.

------------------------------------------------------

The Company Is Recruiting

Having risen from the ashes of the disbanded Covian army, The Company continues to fight for freedom and against tyranny wherever and whenever required.

The unit is looking for men and women to bolster it's ranks for the challenges ahead as it aims to build on it's fierce reputation gained liberating Vesper from the greedy clutches of it's own militia.

The Company offers a clean slate, a new start to those wishing to join up, it will not judge a warrior's past as long as that past has been put to rest. Anyone bringing their troubles with them to The Company will be expelled, or worse.

If you value freedom or wish to leave your former life behind, contact Commander Morana at pigeon cage: 205754768.

------------------------------------------------------

- Linaeus C. Blackwind, Editor in Chief, Reporter General, Primary Publisher,
                                      Writer, and Distributor.
                                     The Covetowne Gazette

- Aided by Lucius I. Edwards, Reporter and Crier.

(OOC Note: The names in the journals in screenshots are not IC knowledge under any circumstances. This newspaper is liberally tossed about on the ground and front steps throughout town the morning after it is printed, and the stories in it are IC information. The names mentioned -in the text- may be treated as IC information.)

[Linaeus]

The Covetowne Gazette - Everything we print is true.

The Gazette is now accepting donations. All Sketches contained within are completely accurate. The Gazette is not responsible for emotional, physical, or financial harm inflicted by the reading, possession, or, in rare cases, burning of this pamphlet.

The Yewish Flu?

A new and deadly disease is rumoured to have been taking lives! The disease takes the form of a nasty flu, which apparently is mainly associated with close contact with sheep. Much of Yew is devastated due to this new virulent form of the flu, and much of their militia is currently rumoured to be incapacitated. Cove need not be alarmed, as this "sheep flu" is localised to Yew, but there is a fear of it spreading to other parts of Sosaria, causing a pandemic. Especially the Glenmore highlands are at risk, as the locals there are known for their special relations with their sheep.

A nervous Khaelieth with Abra the shepherd and one of the reservoirs of disease

Khaelieth Llelmandred Kellenwyr Sereghyanda, cunningly disguised as a human, interviewed a local Yewan shepherd who was still able to work, though was sneezing a lot throughout the entire interview. When asked how close the contact had to be with the sheep for people to contract this disease the shepherd was awfully closemouthed, only muttering something about "intimate relations."

In other news...
Commander Morana marries Railen Beryl of Swaggers.
Orcish attacks increase - surprise assault on May Day festival thwarted.
Peace Talks over Minoc to commence in Moonglow soon.
Altmere still not free.
Vesper attempts (poorly) to repair damaged relations with Cove.
Yew and Cove friendly for the first time in years, will it last?
Sergeant Keres successfully defends Baronial Honor in duel with Yewish militiaman.


- Article by Khaelieth Llelmandred Kellenwyr Sereghyanda

- Edited by Linaeus C. Blackwind,

- Assisted by Lucius I. Edwards.

((OOC disclaimer; the above is one of the many unfounded rumors commonly published by the Gazette. In (RP) reality, there is no epidemic spreading through Yew.))

[Raiden Morana]

Rejoice! Cove's coffers overflow once more! And the Covian Army is reborn!

Despite the efforts of slapdash Trinsican sailors and orcish raiders to see it at the bottom of the big blue, the Treasure Fleet did in fact arrive in Cove and it's contents entered into the once bare Covian coffers.

The appearance of Orcish corsairs caused the Trinsican seamen to panic splitting the fleet's formation and allowing the greenskins to board vessels one by one as they entered Cove bay.

However gallant fighting by the members of the Company, including a daring counterattack led by Commander Morana to recover a few trinkets stolen by the orcs, saw that the coins, gems and jewelry delivered by the Treasure Fleet were entered safely into the coffers and not some stinking orc hovel. And thus Cove's monetary turnaround was complete.

No longer would she be obliged to hire her brave warriors out to the highest bidder in order to bolster the economy. Financial security had been achieved and the Covian Army reborn!

In other news:
A Covian recruit explodes after testing a strange purple wine for the Baron.
Newly appointed Grenadier Sergeant Keres gets a haircut. His polished pate invoking memories of Grenadier legend Gimbly.
Commander's wife becomes Green Goblin manageress and is also with child.
Rumours claim Officer Cadet ShadowHand has taken a Yewish lass as his bride in a secret ceremony.

------------------------------------------------------

- Linaeus C. Blackwind, Editor in Chief, Reporter General, Primary Publisher,
                                      Writer, and Distributor.
                                     The Covetowne Gazette

- Aided by Lucius I. Edwards, Reporter and Crier.

(OOC Note: The names in the journals in screenshots are not IC knowledge under any circumstances. This newspaper is liberally tossed about on the ground and front steps throughout town the morning after it is printed, and the stories in it are IC information. The names mentioned -in the text- may be treated as IC information.)

[Linaeus]

The Covetowne Gazette - The only real newspaper there is.

The Gazette is now accepting donations. All Sketches contained within are completely accurate. The Gazette is not responsible for emotional, physical, or financial harm inflicted by the reading, possession, or, in rare cases, burning of this pamphlet.

Covian Army Repels Vesperian Attack On Stonekeep

A detachment of Covian guardsmen, led by Grenadier Sergeant Torrak Keres, headed to Stonekeep this eve upon hearing that the Yewish had taken several Vesperian prisoners and that the Republic had declared war on Yew. One of the prisoners in question was wanted in Cove on charges of spying and the guardsmen went to secure her into custody.

However as the band of Covians, led by a single Waywatcher entered Stonekeep the prisoner they had come to secure had escaped Yewish bonds and was legging it up the road. As Cove's guardsmen ventured further into the 'Keep a large Vesperian force was smashing into the Yewish militia.

Covian forces save Stonekeep from the Vesperian hordes.

The Covians formed and armed up under orders from Commander Morana but did not engage. The Commander tried to reason with the overwhelming Vesperian force but the attack did not abate and thus, the guardsman of Cove were ordered to engage the rampant Vesperians.

One by one the red garbed warriors fell or fled until the Commander Morana and his men secured Stonekeep with the help of the few Yewish who were not bloodied and cleaved. As always the Covians did what was right. Defending the weak against the bully, even if it did mean helping the Yewish into the bargain.

Another Covian victory!

Inside;
Vesper declares War on Yew. (page 2)
Covian Soldiers slay eldritch creatures, vol. 9562. (pages 3-7)
Cove and Yew allies? Lucius Edwards investigates. (Page 8)
Vesperian Imperialism: The Red Menace (page 8-10)

- Linaeus C. Blackwind, Editor in Chief, Reporter General, Primary Publisher,
                                      Writer, and Distributor.
                                     The Covetowne Gazette

[Linaeus]

The Covetowne Gazette - Everyone's Favorite Paper

The Gazette is now accepting donations. All Sketches contained within are completely accurate. The Gazette is not responsible for emotional, physical, or financial harm inflicted by the reading, possession, or, in rare cases, burning of this pamphlet.

Severe Weather Batters Cove


Fast action by the Covian Army prevents disaster, containing the flood waters to the immediate area of the docks.

A series of severe storms past week culminated last night in what, were it not for the quick action of the Covian Army, could have been an utter disaster. It seems that just as the most recent of this week's storm was rolling in, and the waters of the Bay of Cove began to rise, a fast thinking citizen rushed to the Army Barracks and raised the alarm. The Army rushed to the scene, where the waters had already begun to spill over the banks, and hastily constructed a levee.

The water rose gradually, until it'd completely covered the docks and everything up to the levee. Fortunately for the good people of Cove, the raging waters were halted by the stalwart barriers, and receded before morning. Cove has been spared a major disaster this time, but with more storms looming on the horizon, it seems only a matter of time before the levees are tested again.

The mariners of Cove were not so fortunate. Dozens of wrecks and groundings have been reported in the bay and along the coast of Covianshire. It is unknown at the moment how many vessels (and sailors) have been lost at sea as the result of this week's storms, but with winds and seas still high, it is certain that the numbers will continue to rise.

In other news...
List of ships and crew lost at sea, (page 2-3)
Weather predictions for the next 5 days, (page 4)
Severe weather survival guide, (page 5)
The Deluge (short story), (Page 6-10)

- Linaeus C. Blackwind, Editor in Chief, Reporter General, Primary Publisher,
                                      Writer, and Distributor.
                                     The Covetowne Gazette

- Aided by Lucius I. Edwards, Reporter and Crier.

[Raiden Morana]

Cowardly Attack As Vesper Defiles Ceasefire
& Acts Of Cannibalism Reported In The Republic!

Free men of Cove and citizens of Sosaria!

By the good grace of Baron Octiovus of Cove I bring ye the gravest of news.

Vesperians defile the ceasefire!

Last eve in a cowardly action, Vesperian forces ambushed Covian and Yewish guardsmen as they sought to return the body of the late Tanya Dart from Cove to her homeland of Yew.

Overwhelming Vesperian forces first attacked a decoy party and then the main body, capturing the casket containing the corpse of the Yewish Captain's dead wife.

However as the full might of Cove and Yew regrouped and sought to reclaim the casket the cowardly Vesperians were nowhere to be found.

Later that eve, battered and bruised Covian guardsmen were victim to another cowardly Vesperian attack as they sought a peaceful ale in the comfort of the Swaggers Inn.

Rumours that the Vesperians had burned the casket containing Captain Dart's wife and snorted the ashes were soon allayed however as Chancellor Escaflowne declared that he and his men had feasted on the dead Waywatcher's remains.

When asked to comment by this reporter, a bloodied Commander Morana replied: "Bastards..."

[Linaeus]

Linaeus Blackwind Murdered!

The gruesome scene.

This evening the corpse of Blackwind Company Executive, Editor of the Covetowne Gazette, and owner of the Dead Man's Hand casino Linaeus C. Blackwind was found, battered, outside the healers' in Cove Towne. When it was discovered, the corpse was lying in a pool of blood - presumably its own - with a badly smeared word written in that very blood upon a nearby wall (presumably by the later Mr. Blackwind). It is uncertain what exactly it said, but what could be read was "M-L--CT-N". Upon the chest of Mr. Blackwind, the words "Swift Is Next" were seared.

Mr. Blackwind's body was found with both arms torn out of their sockets, both legs broken at the knees, and his rigcage broken and collapsed, with several rib fragments poking through the skin. The Army would not comment, except to speculate that the letters on the wall might read "Melancton", the name of the infamous leader of the insidious organization known as the Collegium.

Inside;
Vesper Cannibalizes Yewish Captain's Wife's Corpse (Page 2)
Chancellor Esca Flowne: War Criminal? (Pages 3-5)
Peace with Yew: What does it mean? (Page 6)
Casca Truce: The Eye of the Storm? (Page 7)

- Geralt T. Swift, Acting Editor, Publisher, and Writer
                   The Covetowne Gazette

[Raiden Morana]

Vesperians Are Insane... Official!!!

This reporter can definitely confirm that Vesperian Guardsmen are as queer as folk.

One minute they are slaughtering Covian soldiers minding their own business, sunning themselves on a beach, then they're ambushing funeral processions and cannibalising fallen enemies or attacking unarmed and wounded Covians as they seek a quiet drink at the neutral Swaggers Inn... Only to, in the next breath, seek to be made welcome in Cove's own tavern, the Green Goblin.

What does go on in their vodka soaked, 'shade mushed brains? Who do they think they are that they can commit these atrocities one minute and then brazenly flaunt their feminine headwear in an attempt to get served at the North's busiest tavern the next?

One Goblin regular commented: "Some Vesperian showed up. In that 'orrible uniform o' theirs, with the silly 'ats. Captain told 'im to bugger orf and the Commander said to sling 'is hook like and hop it. He didn't seem too pleased. But what do they expect? Murderin' scum..."

Join our brave boys in the Covian Army and give battle to the Red Menace!

Latest rumours...

Trade at the Green Goblin is booming. So much so that barstaff from around the lands flock to cover shifts at the prestigous tavern.
Cove's Captain seen canoodling in the Goblin's snug.
Local businessman slain. Vesperian involvement suspected.

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