Ravenholt Ruins Are Held, But Not Won

The return of the Ducal forces to the ruins of the capitol city of Ravenholt was a battle that will not soon be forgotten by any who stood within it, or witnessed the bloodshed that ensued. Although the battles were long and the loss of life great, it is agreed among many that the battle seemed to be that of default due to the strange effects that caused the Undead to leave the field.

The battle that ensued in the ruins of Ravenholt was compared by many present to the Sessuar Wars in terms of ferocity and carnage; after the initial push into the center of the ruins, the Ducal forces were literally pinned down by the swarms of undead crawling the remains of the city. Undead of all types were present, and no less than five separate Death Knights were observed on the field of battle, laying about with great fury against the brave soldiers of Ravenholt. There are rumors among the Ducal forces that The Three themselves were overseeing the battle, as some claimed to have seen the greenish glow of their eyes in the darkness, but this claim has been refuted by others in the same battalions - no one is quite sure what was out there in the darkness. Poor weather conditions served to make the battle more dangerous: at times, visibility was less than a few feet and several Ducal soldiers were killed by blundering into the Undead lines, thinking they were fighting alongside their peers.

During the battle, His Grace, Duke Rodenck Ravenhurst was killed, along with the Senechal, Dame Rhyanna Endarr, and the Duke’s Squire, Squire Taya Timerian. According to current totals, over one hundred and twenty soldiers died during the length of the battle, ten of permanently His Grace, Duke Roderick Ravenhurst, had declared that he will personally oversee the funeral arrangements of each of those fallen permanently that day, and has stated that, through he realizes that nothing can ever take the place of a loved one, that the families of the fallen will be recompensed for their loss. Most devastating to the morale of the Ravenholt Ducal forces Held was the impact of the raw Elemental Chaos in the center of the remains on spellcasters with Formal Ritual ability: according to witnesses, as the Ducal forces pressed into the remains, any spellcaster with training and sensitivity to the higher magics began to feel ill - dizzy, nauseous, and feverish. By the time the forces had reached the center of the ruins, many spellcasters could barely stand upright. This group, unfortunately, included many of the Life spell capable Healers among the Ducal forces; though all attempted to fight on despite their physical state, in many cases they had to be removed from the front lines of the battle, and protected in the back of the lines - devastating in a battle against Undead, when most Earth Magic Casters charge to the front. To add insult to this injury, the Chaos in the area warped the magics themselves: Healing spells dwindled in power - they appeared to be halved in power (healing the living as well as effecting the Undead for only one-half of what they usually do), Earth and Celestial Circles only lasted for ten minutes rather than the normal hour, and Wards or Wizard Locks failed the moment of casting. Many have asked why these effects were unexpected: although no one in any position of authority would comment on this matter, the Raven’s Herald has learned from sources that wish to remain anonymous that most of the scouts upon whose reports the battle plans had been made had no spellcasting ability whatsoever, and were unaffected (and thus unaware) of these magical forces. The battle lasted well into the next day, as a miasma of darkness covered the lands at the center of the ruins, apparently permitting the Undead to walk about unaffected in the daylight,

The Undead were joined by a group of powerful and extremely intelligent Trolls (see the NECROPOLIS GAINS NEW ALLIES article, elsewhere in this issue of the Raven’s Herald), and although the Ducal forces had not lost ground, they were effectively pinned down, unable to advance or retreat. During the late afternoon, however, something unexpected occurred which turned the tide of the battle completely, although none are yet comfortable with assuming whatever occurred was truly in our favor. Those spellcasters effected by the "Chaos Sickness", as it had become known, reported that a sudden wave of energy washed over the field: this wave seemed to simultaneously drain the Chaos out of the area, and channel it elsewhere. Spellcasters report that this wave caused their feelings of illness to dissipate, and quick experiments proved that the magics appeared to be returned to normal - healing spells effected both the living and Undead as per normal, and after the attack was over, it was further proved that Circles, Wards and Wizard Lock spells were back to normal. This magical wave coincided with a strange effect on the Undead, and it is assumed by many that it was they who were the real targets of the spell: all of the Undead, even those considered "intelligent', halted in their tracks as if they suddenly became confused, or had forgotten what they were doing. Even those in the middle of battle stopped suddenly, and were cut down by the Ducal forces without attempting to counterattack or defend themselves.

Slowly, as one, the Undead forces turned and walked off the field, heading in the direction of the necropolis. They were harried by the Ducal forces as they went but the Undead made no move to stop them - they continued walking as if the soldiers were not there, even allowing themselves to be cut down and destroyed. The Ducal forces followed the Undead to the wood line, but were ordered back, to regroup and take count of the injured and fallen. After approximately an hour, Ducal scouts ventured into the forest to track the movements of the Undead only to find that the entire army of Undead was gone, apparently vanished without a trace, into the swamps. Tracks stopped abruptly in the mud, leading some to believe that they were Gated or Rifted away. A majority of the Ducal forces are remaining within the ruins, rebuilding structures where possible and fortifying their position, expecting more attacks as the days follow. A contingent of soldiers were sent to relieve the beleaguered Citizens of Ravenholt, and reportedly arrived late Sunday night By the early reports that are coming in, the Citizens of Ravenholt were beset on all sides my forces similar to those faced by the Ducal forces, and suffered well over twenty deaths, although no one permanently died. However, the Citizens Ravenholt were completely successful in holding the captured area, and despite overwhelming odds, once more emerged battered but unbeaten by the forces of the Necropolis.

At the stroke of noon on Monday, April 10, 600, a brutal attack was launched on the small hamlet of Ayren’s Crossing in central Cumberland; reports are still sketchy at this time, but the Raven's Herald has learned that the attack seemed to be perpetrated by a single Death Knight and six Trolls, and that only a single living thing was left alive - all other villagers and their livestock were slaughtered down to the smallest child, colt, lamb, and calf.

The Death Knight which has not yet been identified, reportedly walked freely about during the daytime, seemingly unaffected by the rays of sunlight which are usually deadly to abominations such as itself. It was described as "immensely powerful" supposedly shrugging off many of the villager's attacks, and seemed personally enraged at the peoples of the village.

It apparently took a grim glee in its work: after slaughtering the warriors and militia of the town, it slowly hunted down each living being and ran each of them through - it then worked some strange magic to cause the bodies of the dying to crumble to dust denying any hope of a Life spell to the fallen.

The six Trolls with the Undead were also unnaturally powerful; reports have been confirmed that the Trolls launched a volley of death spells and necromancy into the crowd of helpless citizens, killing many outright before the battle had truly begun. As the Death Knight visited its reign of terror on the terrified citizens, the Trolls walked about and destroyed anything they could set hands to: slaughtering farm animals, burning buildings and seed stores, tearing apart farm equipment - nothing was safe from their rage. Reports are still being confirmed that a single villager may have been left alive, and that there may be some form of message or note that they were left with, regarding the identity of the Undead abomination and the reason for this brutal act. This information is not yet public, however, and is apparently being studied by local Cumberland officials before its release.

The Ducal Forces and the Citizens of Ravenholt came face-to-face with what appears to be a new factor in the battle against the dread Necropolis. Joining forces with the masses of powerful Undead which serve the Necropolis, a large group of what appear to be intelligent and Chaos-warped Trolls have declared war on the people of Ravenholt aiding and abetting the foul abommations which walk the Duchy.

Four of these Trolls were successfully captured and taken alive by the Ducal forces, and turned over to Earth scholars for study. These Trolls apparently refer to themselves as part of the "Rotting Bone Tribe", a thus far unheard of group. Early reports have confirmed that three of the captured Trolls seemed to be normal Trolls, but one of the captured Trolls, which appeared to be a leader of some sort, was reportedly some how warped and augmented by strange Chaos magics, which could explain their unnatural intelligence and skill at spellcasting.

There are reportedly other types of trolls among them, twisted, diseased creatures of unnatural skills, abilities and immunities, but none of these creatures could be captured for study, and their exact origins and skills remains a mystery at the present time. Those who fought the Trolls reported that most of them appeared to be trained in the necromantic arts as well as fighting - however, no one is quite sure how to categorize the Chaos-tainted ones, as of yet Many of the Trolls that Ravenholt were seen casting at, least one spell from the 9th circle of leaming, several reports also have been confirmed of the "leaders" of the Trolls casting up to four 9th circle spells. This spellcasting power, their ability to walk about freely during the day and spy upon the peoples of Ravenholt disguised as normal Trolls, and the unknown element of Chaotic-spawned powers makes them a deadly new addition to the fight against the forces of the Necropolis.

His Grace, Duke Roderick Ravenhurst has declared that this tribe of trolls should be considered as allies of Undead, and should be killed on sight.

Lieutenant Jenna Cobblersson Died April 8, 600 of massive wounds incurred during the battle to retake the ruins of Ravenholt City. A career soldier, she had served in SkyGuard since the age of 16 until its dissolution, then served in the Ducal Army until her death at the hands of the Necropolis. She had no existing kin, but will be sorely missed by every member of her battalion. There will be no funeral - she requested that her body be cremated and the remains be scattered off the shore of her childhood home in Sercia, Capulus. A small memorial service will be held at the shore side.

Lance Corporal Talon Steelforge Died April 9,600 of necromantic spell fire incurred during the battle to retake the ruins of Ravenholt City. An expert armor and weapons-smith, as well as a source of excellent tactical advice, he will be sorely missed. He leaves ,an adopted son, Sean MacUlster Steelforge, and a great number of friends. His body has been shipped back to the Bone Mountains of Capulus for burial in his family plot. A memorial service will be held in the Dancing Unicom tavern in Capulus for any that would attend.

Sergeant Ysadril Kiayte Died April 9, 600 of massive wounds incurred during the battle to retake the ruins of Ravenholt City. Ysadril died leading the charge against one of the Death Knights of the Necropolis, and although she died permanently during the battle, her dying blow permanently killed the Death Knight she faced, saving the lives of those she lead, and striking a resounding blow for the peoples of Ravenholt against the Necropolis. Her body has been returned to Draelonde for interment with highest military honors.

Sergeant Arthur Rigging Died April 9, 600 of massive wounds incurred during the battle to retake the ruins of Ravenholt City. Arthur was well known for his calm under pressure, and willingness to risk his own life for the lives of those that served under him. He died while attempting to regain one of his own which had been felled, turned into an Undead, and lead behind the enemy lines. That soldier was later recaptured and returned to his normal state, without suffering a death. He will be remembered fondly by all, and sorely missed. He will be buried in the town of Two-Roads, and a small memorial ceremony will be held in the tavern afterwards.

Private Thud Died April 9,600 of necromantic spell fire incurred during the battle to retake the ruins of Ravenholt City. Thud was a member of the Ducal Army for six years, choosing never to advance beyond the rank of private in order that he could remain with those that he felt needed him the most. His huge size and great tusks belied a kind and gentle being, who was a source of stability for his friends and comrades. He will be sorely missed. He has been posthumously decorated as a Sergeant and was buried with full military honors in Two-Roads.

Private Galadriel Wildwind Died April 8, 600 of massive wounds incurred during the battle to retake the ruins of Ravenholt City. Galadriel had joined the Ducal Army in the spring of 599; her Healing talents and calm manner quickly made her a valued part of her battalion. She will be sorely missed. She leaves a mother, Etain Wildwind, as well as three brothers and a sister. Her body has been shipped to Westmarch for burial in her family plot A small memorial ceremony will be held at her family’s farm afterwards.

Private Twist Jongleur of the Mystic Wood Died April 9,600 of massive wounds incurred during the battle to retake the ruins of Ravenholt City. Twist had been a member of the Ducal Army for nearly a year, reportedly having joined in the fight against the Necropolis in hopes of preventing another Burning. It is not known if she left any family or kin. Her body was returned to the Mystic Wood for burial. It is not known if there will be a memorial service. .

Private Richard Walker Died April 9, 600 of massive wounds incurred during the battle to retake the ruins of Ravenholt City. Richard died while attempting to save the Duke Roderick Ravenhurst from the attack which eventually caused Ms Grace's death; throwing himself in front of a Death spell meant for the Duke. For Richard’s bravery, His Grace has ordered that he be buried with full military honors, and has pledged to see that Richard's widow, Anne Walker, and their four children are cared for.

Private Bryan Cook Died April 9,600 of massive wounds incurred during the battle to retake the ruins of Ravenholt City. Bryan was a quiet, stoic man, who spoke little of his life before joining the Ducal Army. It is not known if he left any family or kin. His body has been buried in the graveyard at Two- Roads, in Ravenholt.

Private K'Turan Tarik’changal Died April 9,600 of necromantic spell fire incurred during the battle to retake the ruins of Ravenholt City. K'turan had only recently joined the Ducal Army, and leaves a widow, M’nura, and nine children in his homeland of Myrr. His body has been shipped back to Myrr for a proper funeral feast all friends and compatriots are invited by his family to attend.

So how about the nobles now? They seem to be varymg between pulling more than their own weight and rarely showing up.

Capulus, or Stormwatch or whatever butchery of those two names they're going by, have been taking evil by storm. They show a huge number at the spring gatherings and take on missions to save the world at every turn. But what is their stance on the rest of the political situation?

Eastwyck? Does Eastwyck exist? Rumor has it that they showed up for a short time last gather, but left early. Sounds like someone's aching for replacement..

Westmarch. Again, where? Last time we saw them, Derek Northridge had been replaced by a regent, whose name was never given in report. Perhaps someone should go rescue them from whatever fate has befallen them, since obviously no noble would abandon his post willingly

And finally, Cumberland. The good Baron is present often, and very virtuous in his judgments. But one wonders if he might be too harsh, considering how few he's deemed worthy to be on his court...

On the Ducal front, communications seem to be improving. The Duke now nods to people, as well as "hmmms". But we must say that Dame Quinn, the "necromancer" of all times, seems to have finally thrown off her slanderous title and taken her rightful place among celestial casters. And to think, she’s been one all along...

Could someone please just announce the coup at the Healer's Guild and tell the Herald who's running it so we can report? What a mess. Stories vary from Mother Merry's apparent dissatisfaction and forceful remodeling of it to a few other commoner sources supposedly being put into place. And someone get that Sarr some clothes.

The Dragon and Pawn seems to have dissolved except for a few stragglers. Watch them carefully, because it is still suspected that they are part of the Paladins of the Rose, the group reported years ago for crusading against slavery and bad costuming by day. But also suspected is their transformation into strange fey creatures by night, where they spread their evil massages... err, messages.

The Baljar. Did they travel on to a new land? Have they left Ravenholt in search of new things? A few are spotted here and there, but a real showing hasn’t been seen in more than half a year. Rumor has surfaced about a ceremony welcoming more, but see more about that in the public messages.

The Brotherhood of the Dragon is omnipresent, serving as the ever youthful and energetic high speed rescue team, and their counterpart, The Order of the Silver Rose, has also been about. Although there seems to have been something about a conflict with a few members of the Silver Rose and the Mystics of the town. Something about someone’s aunt being charmed...

To Delahr and Aleena: I was there at sunrise. Where were you?

The Baljar would like to welcome their newest sister, Alora Sedgewick into their fold. Welcome to our family!

Curyll Stormydd : A slave’s mercy is not always kind. -A warning

Calling All Wenches! Come and join the Wenches Guild! Tips!Tips! Tips!

To Mister Kestrel and Mister Nomad: Thank you very much for watching me. You are both very kind. And the trash barrels weren’t All my fault.

                                Sincerely, Petunia