The winter's harsh grasp is starting to wane as the Melting is but a few ten-days distant. The trip back to Ashabenford is easy, giving the party much time to reflect on what they saw and experienced in the lair of the Goblins at Tallow's Post.
"What could that have been?", questions Fugnus.
"I don't know, but keep guard of that book we got. I wouldn't want to lose it," says Delf.
"Who are we going to give it to?"
"I know someone back at Ashabenford that we can show it to," responds Delf.
Two days out from Tallow's Post, the party is overtaken by a group of horsemen heading east along the Moonsea Ride. They don't hesitate a bit as they ride by, but our heroes do get a glimpse of the banners they are carrying.
Arriving mid-morning on the 11th, our heroes find Ashabenford a rather busy town. There are a number of royalty here, at least four Heraldry Banners and Coat of Arms can be identified.
These represent (starting from the top left) Cormyr, Shadowdale, Sembia, and House Cormaeril. The banner the party saw on the way was from the Citadel of the Raven.
The word on the street is that Azoun IV (King of Cormyr) has died, and that there is a power struggle to replace him. Rumors are rampant, and getting the truth of the situation, including even whether the word of Azoun's death is true, is difficult to obtain.
Some "rumors" are:
... other "rumors" are spreading as well...
16th Tarsakh
As usual, the word on the street can often times not be trusted. Raven informs you all that contrary to "street" knowledge, King Azoun is alive and well. Yes, an attempt on his life was made, but failed. The perpetrator has not been found, but with Vandergahast in charge, it shouldn't be too long before he or she is captured.
Not so lucky was Elduth Yarmmaster, Overmaster of Sembia. Apparently assassinated by a unknown foe, Elduth was found in his bed chamber by his servant, with a clean puncture wound in the base of the neck. The remaining members of the Council of Merchants will elect a new Overmaster soon.
Tilverton has not announced independence from Cormyr.
On ye old message post....
14th TarsakhAnother riot has erupted in Mulmaster, with the citizens throwing rocks and bottles at the House Built of Gold. Apparently a group of Thayvians were taking shelter there when a crowd led by a former Cloak member came upon them. A couple of Magic Missiles were flung into the crowd which apparently started the riot.
The Temple of Oghma in Deepingdale has obtained more information on the recruitment of scribes that was reported last Ches. It now seems that those knowledgeable in ancient Espruar, the moon elven alphabet, are high on the list of those recruited.
Important people, groups, and places:
Secret Power Groups