On the night of Friday July 25th, the former Warlord Sagramore appeared once more in Ravenholt. However, this time he did not come at the head of legions of undead minions to wreak havoc on the town, rather he came to offer a warning and an alliance of sorts.

The Death Elemental that had been bound into Sagramore's dreaded "Netherblade," which granted instant death to all that it touched, had apparently been freed by the shock wave which destroyed the magical items of Ravenholt last fall, and would be coming to Ravenholt to attack the town that night. Sagramore offered a bargain, if the people of Ravenholt would bind it again for him. He described how it could be bound with four magical candles and warned that he would be coming to get it once it was bound.

That night, the elemental of the Netherblade appeared in town. Anyone wounded by the lethal creature died immediately. The death elemental, however, attempted to mark any that it downed in battle. Those that it marked were stabilized, but later rifted out by the creature to the plane of Death, where it attempted to feed on their Life essences in some way.

The first group taken in this manner all died, as they were unable to complete a puzzle that would have freed them before the last of their life essences was consumed. Most resurrected, including Viscount Daramor and other prominent citizens. Michaela Bronwyn failed to resurrect, taking her final death.

It was clear to all the people of Ravenholt that this creature posed a dire threat. However the being would be just as harmful in the hands of Warlord Sagramore. A council was gathered to determine what to do about the Netherblade, made up of leaders from the noble courts, Anvil, and the Mage's Guild. They learned that if the creature could be trapped by the candles on the Plane of Death itself, then it was very unlikely that Sagramore would ever be able to retrieve it or that the creature could free itself.

Accordingly, groups et out to recover the four candles. Members of Arkham, Eastwyck, Anvil, the Ducal Household, and the Mage's Guild headed expeditions to win them from large bands of ogres that guarded them. All four were recovered successfully.

In order to trap the creature, it had to be lured into a ritual circle and the candle lit. It was powerful enough to resist its entrapment twice, so at least three candles would be needed. The creature was attracted to those with Life forces made strong by great experience ad skill, so formidable townsfolk such as Forestlord Ehawk attempted to lead the elemental into circles cast by waiting Celestials. No Earth circles could be spared because of the drastic shortage of Life spells created by the Netherblade Creature and the invading Sessuar. The third time that the creature was successfully lured into a circle, Keyla of the Mage's Guild lit the candle and imprisoned the creature. To trap it on the plane of Death, several volunteers came forward and allowed themselves to be marked by the creature. Then the creature was freed so that it could call these brave warriors into the trap that they had laid for it. This group included Duchess Alexa, Countess Aleena of Arkham, Viscount Daramor, Dame Quin, Sir Thedien, Sir Havalock, Illyria of Eastwyck, and Tristemere of Stormwatch.

When the call came, the marked ones rifted out, but this time they were ready. A bitter struggle ensued, during which the creature was finally lured into the circle and trapped. All of the brave townsfolk were killed in the process. Only Kain, a townsperson who was marked before the creature was trapped and who had no idea of the plan, was left alive. He fled through a gate that opened, as there was nothing he could do to save the fallen. When the last living being left the plane of Death, the bodies of the others rifted back into Ravenholt. However, many were too far gone to receive a Life spell. Only a small number of the group survived, though all of the rest resurrected successfully.

The creature was bound, though it took a high death toll while it roamed free. No word has yet been heard of former Warlord Sagramore's reaction and possible retaliation.

Representatives form the Circle of Four a new political group among the otherwise unorganized half-orc clans of Ravenholt, came to the capitol last week-end. They were seeking clarification of the rights and responsibilities of their people as citizens so that they could better attempt to unify the half-orc clans within our borders.

They needed, however to get better acquainted with the local citizenry and nobility to be bale to represent to their people, To further this end, they set up various tests to learn the mettle and worth of those that they would further integrate themselves with. These challenges included sparring matches, casting challenges including an obstacle course, and a test for technicians. Many locals accepted and passed the tests of the Half-orcs. Enough acquitted themselves well that the Circle of Four voted in the majority to begin official negotiations with both Ducal nobles, and local authorities to add support for the strapped war effort as a first step in better relations with the up until now poorly respected green citizens.

This July, an ancient Biata known as Elias the Keeper came to Ravenholt seeking Adventurers for a very different kind of quest. During his fifteen hundred years of life, he had honed his mental skills to a remarkable degree, and gained much knowledge, however, he regretted that he had squandered his youth in study and wished to have the sorts of adventurous experiences that he had never had sought in the past. Since he was too old to attempt such himself, he asked for willing townsfolk to enter his mind for an adventure there that he would live vicariously through them. In return he offered information on any question that he could answer from his long experiences and scholarly studies.

The challenge that he set them in his mind was a fairly simple one, fighting various creatures while jumping on pillars across acid pits. It was complicated however by the fact that each group had to choose from several options before the adventure. Transformed in the biata's mindscape by his own imagination, groups could choose to attempt the adventure with far lesser or greater skill than they currently possessed, with the mentality of an adolescent, as a friend, or someone they greatly admired, or as their own worst enemy. Several groups of townsfolk offered their aid to the scholar and were well rewarded for their efforts. The old scholar remained in town for a few days, and his considerable healing powers were of great assistance on the battlefield.

Recently, the creature known as the Hunter plagued Ravenholt with hit and run attacks and infected many citizens with its poison. The creature was brought here by the Sessuar and accidentally unleashed last winter.

Some of those who were affected by its venom received cures found on Sessuar soldiers, but it was later discovered that those who took the antidote died instantly if they were ever struck by the Hunter's poison again. Several people were killed by this dangerous creature, and one townsperson who was dragged back to its lair reports having seen its burrow full of nearly matured young before he resurrected.

The creature and its young have not yet been caught or destroyed. largely due to the creature's great speed and nimbleness and its avoidance of direct conflict. A safer antidote to the venom is rumored to have been developed, but the creature itself still poses a menace to the people of Ravenholt.

To all my adopted Family. I've been informed that I need to perform the proper rituals to make your adoptions official. I apologize for not taking care of this sooner. I will come south to perform the ceremonies as soon as possible. I hope to see you all soon.
Iianthanas Silverbow.
P.S. Ehawk, I would be honored if you would both perform the ceremonies for me, and take me as your brother.

Attention All Sarr!!
Tristemere Mirabad and Chastity Wolvestride of Stormwatch will be organizing a meeting of all Sarr in Ravenholt to discuss certain matters. The meeting will be held on Saturday August 30th at noon. All Sarr who are interested in attending should meet at his time in front of the Healer's Guild. Any questions should be directed towards Tristemere or Chastity.

The ARC is looking for all kinds of components and will pay reasonable prices. If you have something to sell, contact Fallon or Gee.

On Saturday August 30th at 5:00 pm, the Ravenholt Healer's Guild will be having an auction. Items will include various food items, potions, scrolls, elixirs, components, cabin furnishings, and jewelry among other things. Auction items will be listed at the Guild and in the Tavern. All proceeds will go to support the Ravenholt Healer's Guild operations. We look forward to seeing everyone down at the guild on Saturday! Anyone interested in donating items please contact the Guildmaster. If there is a conflict with the Games, the times and date will be adjusted and posted.

Elias the Keeper, an ancient Biata who recently passed through Ravenholt asks that any to whom he owes information write to him with their requests care of the library at Port Jaskara. Requests will be answered as quickly as may be.. Thank You.
-Ember Jongleur

Remember it's summer now, and that means that its very hot. When you come to gatherings be sure to drink plenty of fluids. For this reason, we will be selling lemonade for 5 copper a cup.
-The ARC

Michaela Bronwyn, a well-know spellsinger died at the age of 23 on July 26, 597. She fell protecting the town form the death elemental of the Netherblade. Michaela was a squire in the Order of the Belladonna. She was a staunch defender of Ravenholt and healer of its people. She leaves behind a sister, Dulcinea; a son, Joseph; a prosperous clan; and many friends.

Off the coast of Capulus on a small island known as Hunter's Isle, preparations have already begun for what looks to be the largest and most interesting Harvest Festival seen in recent history. The Vikindra, due to the forecast of an abundant harvest on their Isle, are hosting their annual harvest festival with a startling display of fighting prowess, magical mastery, and award-winning gamesmanship. They are promising incredible rewards to anyone brave enough, smart enough, or swift enough to best them. From what this reporter has seen so far, this should be a most startling celebration, and if half of the rumors are true, then the Vikindra have collected the treasures of Tyrra to distribute to the victors.

Vikindran representatives extending open invitations to all have visited the local towns of Capulus, and friends of the Vikindra have been receiving personal invitations. Vikindra representatives were reported spreading invitations throughout the lands of Ravenholt.

The Vikindra have been living on Hunter's Isle for the last few years, and with their exceptional shipbuilding skills and agricultural innovations they have transformed the island, bringing a much-needed boost to the war torn Capulan Barony. Their apparent affinity for battle has served them and in the past, Ravenholt, very well, in defending against the Sessuar attacks. Due to the superior naval tactics of the Vikindra, the incessant invasions of Hunter's Isle in the past by the Sessuar have failed. This reporter and others believe that Hunter's Isle is a target for the Sessuar, possibly as a rallying point for an invasion of mainland Capulus.

It seems that even these dark days of war do not darken the Festival spirits of the Vikindra. The Vikindran three day harvest festival will begin on the 12th day of the ninth month and is sure to conclude with a spectacular display. This reporter, for one, is sure to attend, and I strongly urge you to attend what could well be the greatest festival seen in a thousand years.

Merfolk form a local Mer village recently came to dry land to ask for help in relocating their people. Their waters were becoming very troubled by lizardmen and dangerously polluted by the necropolis. Volunteers including the courts of Dragonshire, Capulus, and a group of adventurers from the Dragon and the Pawn went underwater with the help of special breathing shells. They risked underwater combat to gather water purifying crystals that the merfolk needed from lizardman infested waters. The missions were successful, though one merfolk permanent chaos induced damage to her tail was unable to transform from two legs back to her tailed form. She has been taken in by the court of Capulus.

From Michaela Iris Bronwyn unto the people of Ravenholt:

This evening, July 26th,597 my body was stolen from the Mage's Guild by the Sentinel form the Spectral Graveyard. I was transformed, through means that I do not understand into the undead form of a greater Banshee. I take this opportunity to implore each and every citizen of Ravenholt to finish with the graveyard immediately, for I cannot be at peace until it is done.

I am a banshee now, I, who in mortal form could restore life with a song, now bring only death with each wail. It is the ultimate irony. Undead are an abomination. It is our law, If I could escape this form, I would do it. I don't want to be undead. I don't want to be dead, either, but given the choice, I would rather be dead.

I wish for you all to know a few things. Contrary to the accusations muttered over my body in the Mage's Guild, I never used Necromancy before this night. Although I had my personality conflicts with certain citizens, I only wanted what was best for our Duchy. I was a healer; there was no one I would absolutely not heal- not even those who murdered me.

If I had to write my own epitaph, it would say, "Michaela Iris Bronwyn, Born October 13th 573, Died July 25th 597. She was the tempestuous healer of a land she dearly loved." That's all that needs to be said. I was sister, cousin, mother, lover. I was Squire, performer, chieftain, friend. I insulted nobles, assaulted townsfolk, (sorry Harold) and made every person in town angry with me at one point or another. I was a poor leader, a poor swordswoman, and a poor squire within the order of the Belladonna. I admit, I often exhibited very unimpressive behavior, and there were many things I wasn't good at. I can say, however, that I was a very good healer, and that I had my heart in the right place. I guess that 's what I want people to remember; for all my flaws, (and there were many, ) I loved my city, and I loved to heal.

I will leave you with a verse to my favorite song.

Let the love of our land's sacred right
And the love of our people succeed.
Let friendship and honor unite
And flourish on both sides of the Tweed.

I leave you now to go fight the Sessuar as long as I am in this form. I will serve you until my spirit rests. Until we meet, in memory I remain, Michaela Iris Bronwyn.

To the People of Ravenholt:

As most of you know, Ravenholt lost a great asset on July 25th. My sister, Michaela Iris Bronwyn, was many things to many people. To many of us, she was sister, cousin, friend, lover, healer, confidante, and more than could be put into words. We will all miss her.

To those of you who spoke ill-words over her body, I say to you, never say things about someone you are not willing to say to them. My sister heard every word you said. I tell you this, my sister was NEVER a necromancer. Indeed she was incapable of casting Necromancy. My sister was a healer. She devoted her entire existence to the well-being of this town. I didn't see anyone else making protective runs, or healing the people who habitually told them they were useless. I didn't see anyone else dying in order to save one of the town's most valuable resources. Michaela did this and much more. One of you has already apologized, and I understand and thank you. it takes a real man to admit when you are wrong, and I am happy to call you friend. To the rest of you involved, I take it as a personal insult to me and to the clan, and will do so until each one of you gives me a sincere apology. You know who you are, and I await your comment.

Bailiwick, to you, I say this, Twice Michaela died because you "didn't have time" for anyone but yourself. Remember this the next time you decide to lock someone out with no protection from the evils that surround us. In a way I hold you responsible for her death. Prove that you can think of someone other than yourself, and serve this land and these people. I await your proof.

Thank you all for your condolences and help through this time of trial.

I, as well as Aurora, Savaas, Cailean, Whiteback, Maura, Larissa, and Michaela's son Joseph, all thank you.

To My Friends:
Arick, I never would have made it through this without you. I love you more than you will ever know. I will never leave you as long as I am able.
Nomad: My friend, your help means everything to me.

Houlie: You are one of the most wonderful friends a person could ever have. Thank you for being my friend and reminding me of our gypsy traditions.

Titania: Thank you for giving Michaela the friendship that I could not. I hope to get the chance to get to know the one my sister called her best friend.

My Family: Without all of you, I could not go on. You are my life and my dream. I am so proud of each and every one of you. I swear to try my best to be even half the leader that Michaela was. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask. Cailean, I'm proud to call you cousin, and friend. I know I don't tell you often enough. Aurora: I know how hard you try. Let me teach you. Savaas and Laici, congratulations. I am honored to call you family. Whiteback: I love you. Let me teach you how to live, and be your friend.

Malace: Thank you for understanding, and just being you.

Capulus: Thank you for realizing that sometimes the word of the law isn't always right. Let me show you what I can do?
Humbly Yours,
Dulcinea Rose Bronwyn
Chieftain, Clan Bronwyn
Servant and Healer of Ravenholt.

Unto their Graces Andros & Alexa, Duke and Duchess of Ravenholt, on this 14th day of July, 597 at Ravenholt, from Sir Adrick Voltan, Duke of Volta, at Castle Hadran in Dinsdale, I Give Most Affectionate Greetings

My Dear Friends,

As we both know, the Demands of war have called each of us to our Duties, & there has been too little Time to enjoy the Friendship that binds us most Agreeably. This campaign has also prevented me from attending to the proper Courtesies due you and your Court. I beg your Understanding & Forgiveness in this matter, knowing full well that you face even more pressing Trials. May we stand together in Triumph as the last of the Sessuar swine are screaming with the pain of Obliteration.

I have Spent the past months engaged in two undertakings: a Hunt for Sessuar (Which is meeting with some success.) & the Beginnings of negotiations with the Highlanders for a Homeland- which has unfortunately been Dangerously delayed due to the War. This message concerns the latter task, since I know that every resource at our Command is stretched to its limits against the Invaders.

Andros, I am sure that you will remember that when your adopted Father, the late Prince Basil, was first named Baron of Eastwyck in 569, he was the sworn Vassal of Volta under my father, Duke Argent. Basil was quite proud of the long and glorious record held by Cecil Eastwyck in the annual Voltan Tournaments, & began a similar (though much more civilized ) practice of his own. I am sure that it continues to bring Honor & Fortune to the participants, just as it does in Volta.

Prince Basil's Tournaments have followed the customs of the Kingdom. The Voltan Games keep more to Our Ancestors ways, and have all the Flavor and Passions of the Clans, both or the Northmen, and of Highlanders.

The delegation of Highland Clan Elders that are representing their People in the negotiations with Us have asked that there be "Highland Games" across the north as a sign of their acceptance by Evendarr. This presents no difficulties for Volta, but they have asked that the Clans who now dwell in Ravenholt and Elysia be permitted similar opportunities. I have spoken with Prince Kevynn on the matter and he has no objection ( although he did observe that he though it most unusual to plan engaging in bloodsports while one was sober.) A message will also be sent to Duke Rutherford.

My brother and sister, I am asking that you grant me the Favor of allowing a small party from the Court of Volta and a delegation of Highland Elders to travel to Ravenholt early in September in order that the Highlanders who now dwell in Ravenholt may participate in their Games. I will accompany them if the demands of war allow it and will of course contribute the prizes from my own personal Treasury. I truly Believe that we will all benefit from the exercise. If the Games serve to bind these long-estranged folk into Loyalty to Crown and Kingdom, all will be the Better for It. Of course the Games will be open to everyone; that is also Highland custom, although many do not have the Stomach for it.

As I have said, His Highness has given Consent as well. I would not ask for Kevynn's intercession in this. You and I stood together on the field at Axelburg against the foul Tarlov & the Sessuar. You shared our Grief in the Council Hall and later at Three Spires.

I look forward to feasting with you again and to seeing the brave folk of Ravenholt. Grant me this and I shall be once again your Debtor. Rosalinda also sends her Greetings; she rides beside me these days whenever she is able.

By My Hand & Seal
Adrick

[My scouts tell me that something New is afoot with the Sessuar although they cannot yet determine the specifics. Be wary!]

Three strange and powerful undead entered Ravenholt on Friday night of the last weekend of July and caused damage toe the townsfolk, constantly regenerating a short time after being cut down.

They seemed to be connected to the spirit of a young gowned woman who appeared shortly after the undead. This spirit bore a music box that seemed to attract the undead trio in some way. Once within the influence of the music box, the undead seemed calmed and followed the spirit's signals not to attack.

An Eastwyck soldier also appeared following the ghost, speaking of a tower that she had silently implored him to enter.

The matter from all counts seems unresolved, but apparently some local citizens headed up by the Court of Eastwyck are attempting to break what may be a curse of some sort which binds the three undead and the spirit of the lady. Some rumors indicate that the undead may have been her children in life.

Citizens are warned to keep their distance from the undead who speak and act childlike to lure passersby close enough to assault the with dangerous distance and carrier attacks.