The Oracle
First Passage of the Plowing Moon
Emperor Leaves Mymé
In what everyone is hoping is an end to the war in Jedda, the Emperor has taken his ships back to the ports of Irutoka. He broke off the engagement without an explanation, although his probing attacks of last passage proved to him that the Jotai-Jo were ready to defend the Empress’ isle.
“Although many supporters of the Empress are quite excited by this new development,“ said Iridai, our sage covering the war for us, “it must be remembered that this was a great victory for the Emperor. He decimated the Empress’ navy, killed most of her Shai-kan warriors, and enticed four or five thousand of her people to defect to his lands. Entire coastal villages and towns are empty of residents who had little choice but to leave to Irutoka.”
Thus it stands that the Emperor leaves in victory, leaving the Empress only with a battered military and many ruined towns.
The Empress will doubtless begin the long task of rebuilding. Queen Lillian, however, has officially imposed her sanctions upon the Emperor due to his open disregard of her suggestions for peace.
Thus all ships bringing goods from Irutoka will be turned back to sea upon arriving at any of the Old World’s docks.
Aggressive trade will soon begin with Mymé, however, and citizens of Aranor are advised to once again enjoy the many Jeddan imports and foods that Aranor has to offer. Partaking of such offerings will be a great boon to the Empress and her efforts to revitalize her lands.
Lord Kieran
Aranor Prepares for Spring Festivals
The spring peasant festivals, one of Aranor’s largest celebrations, will begin upon the full moon, nine days from now. In honor of last years’ abundant harvest, this year’s celebration will be the biggest yet. Expect to find numerous stands giving away free food samples, an immense gypsy gathering, a faire with rides and entertainers, demonstrations of horsemanship, trained dogs, and falconry, as well as an evening feast for those willing to spend a little gold.
The feast will be held outdoors, and will features pigs that have been specially roasted in pits. Entrance to the feast will cost 20 silver per person, but the general celebrations are free and open to anyone.
“Edana has blessed us greatly since the founding of Aranor,” says Mia, one of the celebration’s organizers. “These lands are fertile, and the rain is always rich. We’re ready to give our thanks to Edana, and prepare for the upcoming growing season. We have more people in Aranor to feed than ever before!”
And, I might add, we’ll all be eagerly awaiting the first of the summer fruits and vegetables!
Tania
Skunks Stink Up Aurora’s Reputation
What happens when a skunk takes up house near the Aurora’s gardens? You get some very wealthy, very displeased patrons.
“I came all the way from Masalla to eat at this restaurant,” said a woman holding her nose in the foyer of the famous restaurant. “And I could hardly make it up the stairs without fainting!”
The smell began on last An Sel, and could be scented for hundreds of paces surrounding the establishment. A huntsman was immediately hired to ‘escort the beast to the netherworld’, but he failed to find it, explaining that skunks are nocturnal and that tracking is difficult at this time of the year, when new plants are springing up and disturbing the ground.
The Aurora hired more huntsfolk, but as the smell began to die down, they relented on their attempts to find the creature.
“Most likely it was just a skunk passing by,” said one of the huntsfolk.
Then, just yesterday, the skunk smell emerged again, stronger than ever. Numerous patrons are turning away from the stench and looking for other places to purchase their dinners.
More huntsfolk have been hired, and the situation is becoming embarrassing for everyone involved. But for those of us with a bit of a sense of humor, go down and watch as people approach the building. You’ll see some interesting expressions!
Tirian
To the Oracle Collection-- Third Year