Misthaven Orin Rakatha

AFire Day, 17thc High Sun,a 2 ACdemy Journal10 Gest egions s hampion xposed LBehind the scenes, ’the ECmperor’s Chosen leads aE very different life The Legion’s Champion, the Emperors’ Cho- sen, the Stalwart Soldier, the Fearless Warrior, and the Bearded Hero. All these awe-inspiring phrases describe the same man. However, it would appear that despite his outwardly mas- culine appearance, this fine fellow of a man, who by day goes by the name of Brother Achil- les, may not quite be what he seems to be! Recent investigations into the activities of the Legion led one of the Journal’s intrepid reporters into their inner sanc- tum, and, whilst many of their secrets still lie securely hid- den, one of the Legion’s own was less able to hide a side of himself that has been kept hidden from public view for a long while. As our reporter explored the Legion’s home, he stumbled across a hair and beauty session. Usually these personal pam- pering afternoons are reserved for the ladies, where they can relax, receive a massage, get their hair and nails done, their pores cleansed, and they make-up professionally applied. However, our journalist was startled to see that it was no lady having her make-up done this day, it was the Legion’s Cham- pion! and neatly hung to one side, perhaps waiting for his beauty His cheeks had been professionally rouged, his eyelids col- session to be completed! According to the rumour mill that oured with a pale blue powder, and his hair had been fluffed travels via their servants, Brother Achilles also likes to be and styled into something very different to his usual publicly known as Madam Morrigan when he’s all made up, which seen, and masculine style! A long, slinky black lace dress, with apparently translates as the “Great Queen”. a myriad small blue crystals decorating the hem was pressed Continued on Page 3 with a named demon, is actually find- ing out what the demon’s name actually is. This is required to forge a weapon Demon Identified that can damage said demon, and for a Over the past few years, not that managed to bring the fac- ritual that can summon the demon to many events have occurred tions together to work as one the blade. Unfortunately, the demon’s unit, for one goal, and in one name wasn’t known by the two suppli- mind, without arguments en- cants. suing, or bodies falling. How- The Legion then took it upon them- ever, one such event occurred selves to divine the knowledge, via a at the last gathering of the na- prayer service to their emperor, with tions, and it even turned out the aide of the Master of Truth. Whilst successfully! this ritual didn’t actually provide the name they wanted, it did produce a It all began last year when two naïve portal key, a physical item that could be members of the Summer Stars decided, used to open a door to a remote, but against their better judgement, to allow unknown, location. their souls to be bound to a named greater demon in exchange for a prom- With the aide of a scroll of ritual ise of power over men. Since that time, knowledge, purchased from Misthaven people have been working to devise a Academy, it was decided that a mission plan to undo those actions, and to pre- should be undertaken to open the por- vent the demon from causing havoc tal and venture into it, under the pre- amongst the gathered adventurers. sumption that the answers they sought were the other side of the door. One important element of dealing Page 2 Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC Continued from front page. to the shimmering portal, where every- In order for this ritual to be success- one managed to return with only sec- ful, many people would be needed – onds to spare. both to enter the portal itself, and also It would appear that those that had to protect the ritual being performed. remained at the ritual source were not To that end, many of the gathered left unaffected by the ordeal. Whilst factions came together to further this they had guarded and kept the portal cause, and the ritual started, with the active, many were struck with disturb- shield bearers of the Cold Dawn used ing visions, and nerve-shattering emo- as its protectors. The main forces en- tions, almost breaking their will and tering the portal were the Legion, al- making the portal close, however they though other factions were also present, managed to stay strong long enough and they knew that once the portal was for those that had entered to return opened, they only had 15 minutes be- with their prize. fore its integrity would break down and their route home would be lost. “she was then stripped” The priestess was then taken to the “seconds to spare” Summer Star’s camp where she was Upon entering the portal, and finding then stripped, bound, and interrogated. themselves in a strange land, they ven- However, whilst they managed to es- tured down narrow paths, swords at the tablish that she was a member of the ready. It wasn’t long before they came Mordent Sisterhood, they were unable upon a small party made up of a blood to extract the demon’s name from her. priestess, and a cadre of her guards. A This is where the newly acquired ar- A Mystical Portal fierce, close run, battle was fought, and tefact of the Crimson Winter came in it looked like the cultists were on the really handy. A Dagger of Truth that, With the interrogation completed, brink of winning before the Legion fi- after drawing blood from a victim, the priestess was then unceremoniously nally broke through. causes them to answer succinctly, but executed and burnt, as the adventurers With time running out fast, the truthfully, three questions. It was at this turned their eyes towards the next step priestess was knocked unconscious, point the demon’s name, Rubicante, of their task. and then bundled up and carried back was extracted. by Balnir Stoutmantle Holy Orders Decreed New edicts have spiral, High Priests, from a number of holy denominations, been issued by have made the decision to send religion to the people, rather the leading clergy than hoping the people will come to religion. in the holy orders A number of capable hallowed clergy have already decided of Orin Rakatha to act upon the mandate, and have set forth on new journey’s instructing some of religious adventure. Expect more of them to follow in of their more their wake as the fight to bring religion back to the realm worldly priests to starts. venture forth and Although it has not been confirmed as yet, it is also be- take religion to lieved that some senior dark custodians of the unholy churches have also decided to venture out with a view to the masses, who recruiting those who lack faith to their black rites. If this is are seemingly true then some form of religious war could follow shortly starting to abandon their faiths. as the two opposed alignments both vie for new followers. In recent times the number of followers attending the lo- Gods help us all! cal temples has dwindled, and the general levels of faith, and by Bob, of the Argent Dawn prayer, have diminished. As a way to stem this downward Dwarvish Have you ever wanted to learn dwarven script but did not know where to start. Has your lack of understanding made your life unfulfilled. now is the time to change and do something exciting! Send a message to Balnir Stoutmantle via the tavern barkeeper and you will find it is as easy as Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC Page 3

Continued from front page. to change. Amazingly though, this wasn’t the greatest shock that our As the music played, fearless columnist came across. No, not even close. Later on the Baron slowly, but that day he came across something that will scar his mind for seductively, removed many years, and the consideration of therapy has not been his smart coat, fol- ruled out. lowed by his white Whilst the beauty session was limited to just the Cham- shirt, to reveal a spiked pion in a private room, that evening involved activity that, leather clad pair of whilst still focussed around him, involved the entirety of the skimpy tight lederho- Legion, and they actively encouraged him, and enjoyed the sen. All the while he spectacle that was performed before them! continued to dance provocatively around It would appear Brother Achilles. that the Emperor’s Chosen likes danc- Then he called for ing. Well, looking at some accoutrements others dancing more to aid him in his dance, specifically. Well, and was handed a 10” having others dance long bratwurst, and a closely around, and Baron Wilhelm makes an appearance container of mayon- over, him actually. naise. The Baron then started to smear the latter over his And if they are re- chest and arms before rubbing the sausage into it and offer- moving their clothes ing it up to the Champion, in the hopes of double-ending it. at the same time, all However, as the seated audience was stunned into rapturous the better. To music, silence, almost unable to move, this offer was passed up. preferably, and, for a The Baron, not put off by this missed opportunity, prompt- pièce de résistance, ly straddled the Emperor’s Chosen, sitting in his lap as he the use of food in continued his burlesque dance, running his hands through their seductive danc- his mark’s hair, es really seems to ap- ensuring that peal to him. the mayonnaise Fat Angus, Lap Dancer Our reporter per- was shared sonally witnessed two such debauched acts of entertainment with his eu- within the Legion’s camp that day. Both cheered on by the rest phoric client. of the Legion, with the Champion sat centrally, enthralled by As the mu- the writhing and semi-naked bodies that gyrated around him. sic died, and The first dancer that tickled the Champions fancy that the Baron col- night, was a tartan clad gentleman, whose stage name is Fat lected his be- Angus, who took great pleasure in waving his spog into the longings, the face of his captivated watcher, whilst proceeding to wrap his wider audi- bare legs around the Champions prone, but pleasured form. ence cheered. But this was just the hors d’oeuvre. What was to follow is Brother Achil- what left the searing imagery into the minds of watching, and les, however, captivated audience. sat motionless, stunned by his As the music start- recent experi- ed up again, Baron ence, lost in Wilhelm Otto von the ecstasy of Schlossburghausen- the moment, Herzdorf, KP CP and completely HPO SP3(DP), of spent. The champion tatstes the Baron’s sausage the Zollern Cor- poration, made his It was an evening that would be remembered for a very entrance. From the long time. Even with the best therapy. gleaming pickel- by Aredhel Turgle haube helmet, long dark officers coat, to To the fairest avatar of death on Orin Rakatha his dark boots, this smartly dressed man Your point was well made. looked, to all intents and purposes, quite Yours sincerely normal, and decent. A Grumpy (and usually inebriated) Dwarf But all that was about The champion enjoyed every second Page 4 Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC

four men looked at one another. ‘I came from…Lyonesse’ Where? Lord Beltane Fires Greystone did not recognise the place It was the time again, and of course. Only a matter of time. One ‘so did I’, ‘I came from Volkans’ That Lord Greystone awoke once by one, the men fell, the green leader place was familiar, but not of here, more from his slumbers. Sum- last to drop, coughing arterial blood not now. Consternation touched Lord moning his Halmadonian ret- as his chest was pierced through. Lord Greystone. ‘I asked not where you inue, he descended once more Greystone waited for the anger to rise came from but where your lands lie’ he to a crescendo before giving the orders called. The deep black stirred again. upon the Festival to enact the to move in and raze the camp, as he sacred ritual. Surely, this time had done so many times in the past. ‘We know not’ they would remember. Sure- Were these men fools? Had they not ly, this time they would do it communed with the Black Pharaoh? right. Surely, there would be He reached inside them, feeling… wait, less blood-letting this year. these men did know of the Black Phar- He approached a camp. A strange aoh and….had helped vanquish him? red snowflake symbol. He had not ‘Well, if you don’t know where your seen this one before, or…..maybe…a lands lie, they may prosper, they may long time ago? But if so, hadn’t they not. Go and find them’. all died? Maybe they would this time – Maybe next year they would know. there was only one fire. A good one, Maybe next year they would do the fire with a huge log and a red glowing fire properly, They had a chance. pit, but – just one. And a couple of Lord Greystone moved forward to lights in strange glass boxes twinkled But. The rage didn’t rise. The men the next camp. There were two fires, either side of the entrance. The dark much better, but not the roaring pyra- rage deep down twisted and stirred. had fought without arrogance, with purpose. With teamwork. Devotion. mids he craved. Another testing then. Mechanically the camp occupants An assortment of creatures met him – moved toward him, as he knew they With the knowledge they would lose, but making the most of their brief elves, a faun, a….dark elf? And wasn’t would. They always did ‘Where are that a furry lizard, pinned to that tree your fires?’ demanded Lord Greystone. time. Lord Greystone’s arm dropped. Maybe… just above their heads? What sort of The tall one dressed in green stood worship goes on here? before him without apparent fear. ‘We ‘You are deemed worthy’ his words ringing in the ears of the dying men. The world had moved on since the were told that they just needed to be last Beltane, Lord Greystone mused. flames…’ he began. The Halmadonian knights moved forward, touching each fallen warrior And with many campfires twinkling ‘Flames? These feeble things’ the an- lightly on the shoulder, and they rose, through the woodland, it was going to ger was stirring, coiling up his torso, amazed as their wounds vanished be- be a long night. making him feel….alive. ‘We will test fore their eyes. ‘Tell me where your Kay Drakken, Crimson Winter your mettle, and see if your flames are lands lie, for they shall prosper’. The sufficient.’ He called forth four knights ‘one on one’. The camp occupants moved line abreast and took a fighting stance. He War! What is he good for? sensed their trepidation, but…calm- “War”, and the other strange ‘Masters’ that have been seen ness too. These men were warriors. No, walking amongst us recently are, according to rumour, anthro- wait….that one was a warrior, although pomorphic personifications of fundamental concepts. Whilst he wore no armour but, this one – an this is a mouthful for some, it basically means that these very archer, but without his bow. And those much one-dimensional entities represent an single idea. two… priests? Greystone’s ire subsid- It also appears that the Lady Crow, whilst to all intents and purposes is probably ed. This wasn’t how it was supposed to the most stereotypical anthropomorphic personification of all, isn’t, in fact, one be - always there had been armoured of the powerful Masters of Lore, but something even more powerful. warriors. Proud boastful men that his Apparently these creatures have been given a physical form by the Mystics, al- knights would slay, and enjoy the task. though these forms are only to allow the sentient races to be able to interact with The Halmadonians moved forward, them, and are not directly linked to their actual being. This explains why striking and the two lines met. A skilful Hal- down the body of a Master does not have any lasting effect. madonian struck sideways at the next The biggest question that has been asked recently though is what purpose do in line, and the archers arm fountained. these strange beings have? The men ducked, dodged, dived from For the most part, if would seem that the answer is “nothing”. the Halmadonians blades, using speed rather than steel. Their agile weapons With two of the Masters recently choosing not to grace us with their presence, swept forward, and all of the Halma- nothing changed, and those that remain seem to affect nothing around us with donians took hits. It was not enough, regards to their own concepts. As such, it would appear that War, and the other Masters, offer little, and do even less. Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC Page 5 Academy Professor Missing Foul play suspected as search for Malacoda is escalated. An incident occurred at the last gathering of the nations that caused one of the Academy’s Field Professors to vanish, with- out trace, and so far all efforts to find him have proved fruitless. The Faculties of Daeva and Daemon, Mystical Arts and Ritualistic Endeavours have jointly begun a multi-dimensional investigation into Malacoda’s disappear- ance but have so far made little progress with locating him, nor identifying any reasons which may have caused his mysterious vanishing. However, two of the nations, the Vagrants and the Warriors of the Crimson Winter, have recently come forward and offered their aid in the investigation, and it is hoped that their ad- ditional help will speed up the investigation, and aid in the professor’s recovery, dead or alive. So far, the only knowledge that the Academy has been able to ascertain is that Malacoda was performing a blood ritual aimed at reversing a daemonic corrup- tion he had been suffering over the past few years. It would appear though that something may have gone terribly wrong, or that the ritual itself was attacked from within its seals. The current working assumption is that forces unknown, sensing the blood link created within his ritual, used it as an anchor to open a rift and snatch his prone, and unsuspecting form. Witnesses have stated that during his ritual, which despite the use of vials of blood gathered from the nations appeared to be going well, large plumes of pur- ple smoke started to emanate from a large, silver chalice of blood that was being used as a power focus for the ritual. When the thick acrid smoke had dissipated Professor Jonah Jones Malacoda was nowhere to be seen and the wards that surrounded the ritual were still in place. All of his ritual paraphernalia was still in place, as were the inscribed blood runes, and his scrolls. It is hoped that this result isn’t a permanent outcome, but this hasn’t been ruled out. Luckily for the Academy though, they had sent two professors to the last meeting of the nations, and Field Professor Jonah Jones was able to coordinate the students in Malacoda’s absence. Professor Jones, an eminent professor of engineering who is currently working on starting up a Faculty of Archaic Wonders, under the Principal Scientia, Lord Marlamin Pegasson, was welcomed by the students, although some had reservations with his extremely non-magical approach to the realm. If anyone has any information relating to the disappearance of Field Professor Malacoda, or his current whereabouts, please contact your local Field Academy.

Please help!! My Name is Talia I am from Melandir. I am be- ing held against my will please, please, help. I think my friend Thanton escaped. Find him and he can point the way. ger has sparked much interest amongst those attempting to resolve the Daemon issue for the Summer Stars. The dag- Truthsaying ger was employed on minions of the Daemon to see if the The Warriors of the Crimson Winter have acquired a name or further information about him could be found. strange and rare artefact. Manufactured from a rock that fell Maybe the wrong minions were selected, or they are under a from the Gods, it’s metal has a strange sheen. great geas, as the repeated response to questions was ‘I don’t After much study and experiment, the WCW have know’. However, those on the quest to defeat the daemon learnt how to imbue this dagger with a strange have high hopes that when used on the right minion it will power, which is kept as a closely guarded se- yield the necessary information. cret amongst their members. If someone is The WCW would like it known that the services of this cut with the dagger, the wielder gets dagger may be hired at a suitable rate – minimal for those to ask three questions. During that allied to WCW, and a little more for others. The services of time, the cut person may not fight the dagger will be provided free in the quest to defeat the them, cast magic or effects, or daemon, which is widely recognised as a great threat to Orin move at more than a walk- Rakatha. ing pace. Warriors of the Crimson Winter This dag- Page 6 Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC A Personal Account of the Harvest Tithe Twas an overcast and chill away from camp I also took the oppor- as the Harvest tithe. Ably assisted by eve as I made my way to the tunity to formally meet the warriors of the knight Boris, we placed our open- stockade. This would be my the Keisora Dynasty. While the knights ing gambits. I believed a game of skill first meeting with this band had a close relationship with this group, was to follow, but others had darker of Cold Dawn, and I needed I wished to take their measure myself, thoughts in mind. and offer a gift. This was accepted, and Outside the tavern we were greeted it to go well. Fortunately I had throughout these events I would come taken time to observe them by 4 men, professors who wished to to have many conversations with the give us an insight into the lives of the over the previous month, and I man called Yu, who while at first glance people from Shou-lun. Four tasks were knew both their strengths and is ragged and simple, has a shrewd set for us: Create a Haiku, a piece of weaknesses. Although a fear- mind. He and Inquisitor Valen seem to art, a tea ceremony and engage in single some band of warriors, they have struck up a close relationship, to combat. help dealings between the two factions. lacked the skill and dedica- As darkness fell we returned towards tion of a devout warrior priest. While I was away the stockade was our camp, having heard that a white This is where I, Tiberius Rak, visited by a lesser demon, that has been knight would pass through. We waited, would step in. described to me as whiney and annoy- but none came, although a group of ing. Taunting the Knights, it laid low Asgard must have heard the same tale, the mighty Lord Matabar with a blow and wished to block his path. My fellow from its fell weapon, which could only knights went out to patrol, but I retired be described as rolling pin like…how to camp, entertaining some members unusual. However, the demon was of the Keisora dynasty. It was fortu- soon dispatched, but disappeared with nate our allies stayed, because an angry warnings that its master was coming... mob of Asgardians arrived at the gates, Later that day, with the clouds part- demanding explanation for how the ing, we encountered members of the knight had slipped past them. As if the Celestial Bureaucracy. They informed Cold Dawn would lower themselves us of an influx of refugees from the to distraction to fulfil their aims! With lands of Shou-lun. The lands had been bluster and talk of honour, myself and ravaged by plague, and the poor peo- the Keisora were forced to join the As- ple hoped to come here. However, with gard in battle. A brief struggle ensued, these simple folk came Ronin, great and with very few left standing, the As- warriors who ruled these peasants. This gard withdrew, claiming their so called created many different opinions, from honour satisfied. I considered this to assisting the afflicted, to just burning be at end, but I was wrong... them. The Cold Dawn held their coun- Bright sunlight hit me as I awoke, Tiberius Rak cil, not wishing to invite plague to our and breaking my fast I rose to find our With deft oratory I won over the lands. warriors ready for the trials ahead. My minds of the warriors with visions of With the skies beginning to darken first was to ask Varid for his blessing what we could achieve together, and we attended the way station to plot and empower our warriors. Entering their wise leader Lord Matabar called our strategy for the great game known the circle under the watchful eye of for a vote. All were in favour, and I was accepted. Immediately I set them upon their first task – an orb -of im portance that had been lost upon this land. The long and heroic quest that led to the return of this powerful ar- tefact would make it worthy of song, especially as two brave maidens of the band achieved this without spilling a drop of blood. I get ahead of myself however. Bare- ly had the knights met with me than I was leaving. With my new role as head ritualist, I would need to meet with the much respected and oft feared Lady Crow, and also maintain links with the Misthaven Academy. Although I know the mighty knights look down on these pursuits, I hope to show them the fruits such labours can provide. Whilst The Cold Dawn Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC Page 7 the Lady Crow, and assisted by Inquisitor Valen and a young ently affected, though I novice called Eabha, we cleansed and performed the ritual believe I could just see safely, as I knew we would. I may be weakened, but I am not clearer than those around without the knowledge I have gained. us. At this point of the Returning to camp we were called to the gate by the As- day I was forced to re- tire, my head wounds still troubling me greatly. The rest of this report comes from talking with noble knights that carried the honour of the Dawn. Reports from our al- lies told us that the poor of Shou-lun were be- ing herded into battle by more powerful warriors, and even some other types of creatures within their ranks. Learning of a force moving through the lands, the knights travelled quickly to a gathering army. Leadership was taken by the admiral, who knowing of our talents had Lord Matabar form a shield wall Keisora Dynasty along a narrow path. When the enemy arrived the force out- gard. They demanded a tax be paid, or a battle would be numbered our own 5 – 1. But the knights fought with skill fought. Truly they have a foolish leader if they believe they and fury, our god Varid defeating their vile magic’s to warp could break our shield wall at our own stockade…a short our shields, and the banner maiden defying any attempts to while later the rabble was beaten to the ground, their meagre make us flee. But in the end we had to give ground, the cap- stores taken, and sent running with their tails between their tain calling us back, needing the might of the shield wall to legs. Our knights celebrated the glorious, if short battle, and hold the second front. went searching for greater challenges. A measured withdraw took us to the steps of the castle, The ritual combat challenge run by the Celestial Bureau- where the brave knights would be re enforced by archers, cracy was held in the fighting pit behind our stockade. Many magic users and other warriors. The admiral had not wasted brave souls entered, but in the end the privateer Captain was the time we bought him, as the second wave charged against victorious, standing over a Wee Scunner, whose size belied us, the cannon roared, and ranks of troops were smashed his viper quick draw. Special mention must go to chief scout from their feet. Arrows flew and gunshot clapped, but still Minsc, whose skills allowed him to rise higher than any other they came. With the legion fighting hard, and our noble allies knight. the Dynasty at our backs, the wall held a second time. As the I escorted the Lady Carys to the tavern, where a meeting clash of blades and shouts subsided, it seemed only one en- was held to discuss the dangers held by the plague that some emy warrior still stood. Seemingly from the very heavens an of the poor migrants could bring to our lands. Ideas were arrow struck straight through his eye, and he fell back dead, passed back and forth, but it seemed so many minds could not come to a consensus. The representative of the Keepers called the meeting to a halt as she was hungry, a seemingly heartless act when discussing the poor and starving. I sup- pose that is the way of their kind though. I could not tell you if any progress was made, our suggestions seemingly went unheard, and we shall take our own actions to aid the poor as we are able, unless approached again. Our aid was requested for something much more suited to our abilities. The various factions had united to open a portal, and bring someone through. While I had grave misgivings of this act, seeing the legion within the circle gave me hope, as these warriors would surely not be dealing with any dark powers. On the way Lord Matabars eye was caught by a dark figure holding court within the way-station. It appeared that the various factions were involved there, and I was sent to investigate. As each faction declared themselves, a piece of land was ceded to them as their own. The Cold Dawn was The Carnival granted the land north of the Foghorn Wood. the force throwing him from his feet. A hearty cheer erupted Returning to the ritual circle, we watched it take place. from warriors throats, and the Lady Carys bowed her head, The ritual was indeed mighty, although there did seem to accepting their praise graciously. be strange side effects to it. Even one such as I was appar- Only one final wave remained, the largest and strongest. Page 8 Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC But healers rushed to the front, easing men’s hurts and healing those close to death. With a mighty roar the battle lines collided one final time. Men gave their all, and finally the alliance was victorious. While the Cold Dawn was the anvil, the others landed the hammer blow. You may think that such a battle would be enough for anyone, but not a Knight. Returning to camp, our knights fended off an assault of elementals. Then we were visited by a member of the Celestial Bureaucracy, to attend our tea ceremony. With myself absent, it fell to our novice ritualist and tavern keeper to create the legendary Cold Dawn iced tea. Served on the shield of a fallen hero and shared with a knight, this is a ritual of warriors, not a weak ceremony performed by lesser men. Finally we lit the Beltane lights. These burned strong, and once more we were visited, men carrying burning torches entered the stockade, and our strength was tested. We sent a champion forward to single combat, and although he was defeated, he earned the respect of the mighty warrior. With this last hurdle overcome, it was time for the knights to celebrate Beltane, and a visit to the carnival, to witness jesters, tumblers and various entertainment. It was a merry time, all thoughts of battle and trouble lost in merry making and overflowing cups. This concludes my report professor. I hope it is informative to you and the various fellows of the academy. by Tiberius Rak, Cold Dawn joke. However, it was revealed that they took more than The Fall of the Asgard one item of importance to us and did not return it when ‘tis with much reluctance that I pen this missive. It has asked. It was only through the actions of War that our item been my honour and pleasure to have many dealings with the was returned to us. Generous compensation was gifted as a Halls of Asgard. They have been honourable allies in their punishment from War due to their lack of judgement. Our dealings, going beyond the call in order to assist other fac- friendship resumed, but not all of the Asgard were happy at tions and indeed, saving the lives of all of us through their this turn of events. generosity of resources and skills. With such a proud history, I pen this, not to bring to light their misdeeds, and not as I was hurt deeply by their actions in further punishment to them for I still recent months, especially from those respect them and pray that they find that I would consider allies. their way back to honour and glory. During our last visit to this plane, This is written to be a warning, that one of our faction was struck down not is all well with the Asgard and to by the Asgard while they were steal- act as a plea for aid. The heart of their ing something precious to us from our faction is at war with itself, and I know camp. Once we had healed our fallen not which way it will turn or to what comrade, we made haste to the Mead degree. There are many trials for the Hall to confront them. When we in the days ahead, and I would wish called out to them to answer for their us all to support them at this time. theft, we were greeted with locked Though, be mindful of the Asgard. doors. This was not the actions of the Asgard that I knew Do not mistrust them, as to do so would betray all that they and called friends. We could hear them whispering, trying have done before to aid us all. Help them if you can, as we to pass orders to hide what they had taken but to little avail. will, and be mindful of their potentially misguided actions. After much negotiating we had our item returned to us. If this was an isolated incident I would have let this pass Peace to the peoples of Orin Rakatha and leave their actions as nothing more than a misguided by Captain Scales of the Keepers Fae Pride! Many a night we have sat, elves, demons, daeva, dwarfs, nymphs, fauns and every other beautiful creature under the stars of our multifaceted universe. In celebration of Fae Pride in a few moons to come the Vagrants will be throwing a party to celebrate the diversity of Orin Rakatha. So shine your horns and clean your hoofs, sharpen your fangs and fluff your wings. There will be party games, plenty of delicious drinks suitable for all races and a pride march at the finale. So bring your banners for your support, your hearts for the solidarity, and your middle tendril for the haters. Humans more than welcome! Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC Page 9 A Deadly Compliment The topic of conversation: Assassinations. The target in question? Lady Crow herself. You might think the worst of this, an attempt to lay an assault on death. Certainly you might be right. But I do believe Khobert thought only to the supreme power of the Lady Crow though as he claims, that she was the most powerful being he could think of. A test of Shadowsfalls limits in terms of pricing. A compliment perhaps, but a fatal one. Crow was swift, she arrived before I would have even thought it was possible to hear of the news. No one hindered her as she sought out the tipsy dwarf and after a brief interrogation drained the life from him. Intention was second to action in this case and in hind sight some things are best left unsaid. Luckily after a frantic panic to revive our beloved little tunnel digger, we managed to bring him back and amends made with the Lady Crow. But let this be a warning: those who court death should be prepared to be kissed by it. by Palin MacGregor Old Bill - Gone, but not completely! Matsumoto No Odi Kirkio, a whilst uttering the immortal words “ rōnin last seen travelling with Ach, feck you ya wee bastard. Ahm the Scunners, appears to be an ol’ man wi’ a dodgy ‘ip an’ I’m al- carrying around additional ready weighed down carryin’ some of ya ‘andywork. Sod off.” to the Dark weight upon his soul. Pharoh! However, his soul, it seems, did not fully pass over into whichever afterlife he believed in. In some strange twist of fate Old Bill’s personality melded into the soul of Matsumoto, where it now hides, awaiting inconven- ient times to emerge and take control of the unsuspecting body. For reasons currently unknown to this reporter, Matsumoto, an active Matsumoto ritualist now sporting a strange black rituals it must add untold risk to the circle tattoo, doesn’t seem to be that lead ritualist and all those that enter a fazed with having a new lodger ‘living’ ritual circle with him. within his body. Whether there is a ‘cure’, or a way to So far, apart from unnerving some full lay Old Bill’s soul to rest, or wheth- people with the switch from polite, er Matsumoto actually prefers having Old Bill, deceased? respectful samurai to the loud and un- his old friend close at heart, remains to As reported in the last edition of the couth behaviour of Old Bill, there are be seen, but in the mean time, expect Academy Journal, Old Bill, another has little other effect, although when the unexpected from this strange new member of the Scunners, lost his life Old Bill’s personality surfaces during partnership.

Harvest Tithe - The Results Gilden Far 2 Silver, 4 Fey Hair Vagrants Here follows the results of “The Game”, as played at the Darkvale 10 Indigo Halls of Asgard last gathering of the nations, “Birth Rite”: Three Sister 12 Sharks Teeth Squires Territory Commodities By Whom Last Gate Wood 2 Fey Hair Squires Shadow Dells 2 Tin Cold Dawn The Spine 6 Gold Halls of Asgard The Mere 2 Sharks Teeth Keepers Pendragon Wood 2 Fey Hair Squires The Highlands 2 Indigo Crimson Winter Greensward 4 Sharks Teeth Wee Scunners The Escarpment 8 Tin The Forgotten Moss Flower Wood 12 Fey Hair Squires The Rift - - Darkwood 8 Quartz Crimson Winter Badlands 2 Quartz Crimson Winter Foghorn Wood 4 Silk Worm Wee Scunners Starvale Peaks 2 Gold Legion Kingsvale 2 Tin & 4 Fey Hair Legion Dragur Marsh 8 Indigo Keisora Dynasty Misty View 2 Gold Cold Dawn East Waite 12 Tin Wizards Concillium Desolation Downs - - West Waite 12 Silver Cold Dawn Oasis of Souls 8 Quartz Horde Dragur Forest 8 Fey Hair Summer Stars Dwimforth Vale 4 Silver Carnival Summer Meadows - - Lost Wood 2 Silk Worm Carnival Fallow Hills 8 Gold Legion The Greenheart 8 Silk Worm Summer Stars Bremmin Plains 2 Indigo Cold Dawn Crown of Haval - - Page 10 Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC bers most vividly. The Duel of the Year My third bout, was against a champion of the Today marks the end of a grand day. Today Wizards Concilium, and a man whom I have faced was the day that I was declared the undis- before and not bested. His weapon of choice is puted one handed swords man to attend typically a long staff, as is much of the Concilium’s the gathering of our factions. It is often way with which he is skilled and has bested me be- difficult to decide contests of weapon fore, but on this occasion our weapons were equal. prowess between the factions, with dif- There was a tense moment as the bout started, ferences in choice of weapons. We have and as we came together, we tested our reactions all crossed blades with our factions, and on each other. We paid no heed to the other bouts adversaries of many stripes, but rarely in happening around us, our focus solely on each so constructed a contest. I must thank other. Then, in a 3 quick moves, we each landed the Celestial Bureaucracy for the oppor- a blow upon the other at the same moment. The tunity and the contest. Minister for War ordered us to replay the bout, and we retook our positions with our sword sheathed. We stood alone in the arena, and as the Minister started the bout, we were instantly prepared. We circled one another, waiting for the first moment to strike. A parry, a thrust, then, as the Champion struck low a high slash landed a clean blow across his arm securing my victory. It was a worthy fight, and I would honour this Champion when I see him next. The last combat, was with Fat Angus of the Wee Scunners. His prowess with a blade is legendary, and as I stepped in to the bout I had a strategy to survive, although I was not sure it could de- feat him. We were both on edge, taught as a bow string, and as the Minister counted down the start of the bout, we both flinched causing the bout to be reset. The Minister counted down again, and as he declared the start we both reacted. He struck quick, drawing his blade from his belt to slice my gizzards open. I lept backwards, narrowly avoid- ing the blade, and brought my down to strike at his arm. His upward swing to prepare his next strike blocked my blow, and we were now both in a ready position. We paused, taking the measure of each other. I started to test his defences and reactions, but he quickly had a solid defence. I circled around to find a better position of attack. I lunged, trying to reach inside his guard, but he stepped back out of reach. I was prepared for his riposte, and parried by swinging my blade high. It was it a perfect posi- tion, and I was able to strike, landing a clean blow on his arm. With that I was declared the victor. Fat I stumbled across the contest on my journey back Angus was extremely gracious, and I would honour from treating with the Legion, and was invited him as well. He is indeed a very fine warrior, and a to participate by the Minister for War. As others force to be reckoned with. The Minister thanked all gathered from other factions, I was curious as to those present for partaking or supporting and that what opponents would prove the greatest threat. was the end of the duel. Warriors of strength and cunning from many fac- Although I was declared the victor, I am remind- tions came to participate. Three Keepers includ- ed that just because I have skill with a single blade, ing myself partook of the contest, where the only does not mean that I am an equal to others when laws were that the bout must be fought with a one they fight with their prefered weapons. However, I handed weapon to the first blood. do smile when I see the banner that I was gifted for My first and second rounds were dealt with my victory, and it lends me strength that perhaps I quickly. They were honourable and fought well, am warrior enough despite my humble beginnings. but speed was my ally and they were quickly best- by Captain Scales of the Keepers ed. It is the final two bouts that my mind remem- Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC Page 11 In and around the Academy Faculties... Through the newly founded Academy field departments, students now have the opportunity to submit articles to the various faculties and receive personal credit. Some of these articles are then chosen and placed within the Academy Journal so that knowledge may be shared. The Faculty of Ritualistic Endeavours Rituals – Under-used, and underestimated. The use of the Ritual Circle, since its powers were uncovered, is being woefully under-used according to the realm’s emi- nent scholars. They claim that whilst the nations are using its power to charge up their nation’s unique abilities, they are only touching the tip of the stereotypical iceberg. “The power that can be accessed in the Ritual Circle, sourced from Godly Forces, Magical Essence, or from the Aether, is capable of far more impressive things”, says Istan Spellweaver, an experienced high incantor and scholar. “Current ritualists are only using about 10% of what they are capable of. They should set themselves far bigger goals.” It is unknown why the current nation’s ritualists are not currently tapping into the vast powers at their disposal. Whether it is fear of failure, the wanting to horde sacrificial resources that have little other use, or just that they are unaware of the scale of what they can achieve, but it would be a significant boon to any nation to have a ritualist tap into this almost limit- less energy. It is thought that the biggest problem that is preventing ritu- alists from reaching their potentials is that the nation’s them- selves are not fully getting behind them, limiting their access to resources, and preventing them from tapping into a power that would benefit all. Also, a recap of some information that was given out by Professor Jones during the meeting of ritu- alists, regarding the differences in the ritual circle now that you are back on the real Orin Rakatha: * A Ritual of Resurrection now only requires a fresh part of the body, or recent remains, not a full corpse. * Three ritualists can work together to perform a ritual of a higher rank. * Rituals of Knowledge can now return more answers than before, depending on the rank of the ritualist, although it does now require a small component sacrifice. This ritual can now be performed many times per gathering. * The strength of the ritual circle now removes the need for additional duration for incantor and high incantor level rituals.

In related news, two ritualists stood out at the last meeting, and deserve credit: Laveena Erza, a ritualist from the Wizard’s Concillium, has made exceptional progress with her magical studies. The re- sults clearly showed themselves within the ritual circle where she managed to achieve a far greater outcome from that of previous outings. May she continue down the path to ever greater successes! And the biggest ritual sur- prise from the last gathering was that of the new Asgardian ritualist, Guthix Wolfsbane. His first ritual for his nation, made on his first expedition with them, was a resounding suc- cess, outperforming many of the well established ritualists of the other nations. He is set to achieve great things! Advertisment Page 12 Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC The Faculty of Flora and Fauna The Restoration of Nature Magic II: These keratin dense quadrupeds should be literally coitusing Observations of potential natural use of magic by the Tur- their way to the grave. Suspected predatory magic, such as bo Bunny and Nightwing Owl that used by the Nightwing Owl and the Masked Man of the Forest also seem to bare no effect, and the rabbits seem to Introduction: detect more direct attack before it arrives, allowing them to The third article in this series delves into the existence of disentangle and make a run for it. two more community members of the Dionate’s lush wood- The Nightwing Owl lands. I feel with every new word I write I come closer to understanding some of the true beauty in nature’s design, This winged harbinger of death is one of the most violent and am starting to get a feeling that magic may be far more and sadistic predators in all of Orin Rakatha. The feathery widespread than we imagined, we just have to look for it. fiend often kills by repeatedly picking up and dropping its victim onto hard rocks, at specifically the distance to only The Turbo Bunny shatter bones and not kill. It is then observed to flay the This rampant rabbit is often found in small glades dot- skin of its now immobilized prey over the course of a few ted throughout the forests near the Dionate. This fuzzy lit- tle critter spends approximately 80% of its time engaging in mating, and is nearly never caught by predators [1]. This combination would lead you to believe that the population levels would explode exponentially, but nature has cleverly led the evolution of these dutiful bunnies, so that the vast majority of bunnies are homosexual [2]. The bunnies often form into large balls of same sex organization and animate furiously until dawn [3]. Pregnancies occur rarely, often due to a result of gender confusion or simply being in the wrong place at the wrong time. What gives the rabbits such stamina is certainly impressive, and I suspect of a magical nature. A quick calculation to see how many calories they were burn off compared to how many were being expended, rapidly revealed a discrepancy. The Nightwing Owl hours before finally eating only the genitalia and brain [4]. The tawny torturer strikes silently, in its famous mute dive, majestic and malevolent [5], although I have my suspicions that skilful flight is not the main mechanism behind the al- most soundless descent. I believe that there is magic at play. The owl is often never heard, this is common knowledge. But more strangely, the screams of its brutally murdered lunch are never heard. I had thought this was perhaps due to the removal of the voice box upon first striking, but with some patience I viewed a kill in which the unfortunate Barking Hedgehog most certainly had its voice box intact. More curiously as the hedgehog called out to its favourite bush for protection, no sound came out and no bark came. The rest is history. Nature is cruel. But through this cruelty I may have found an animal capable of muting sound and thus the use of magic in other creatures, The Turbo Bunny and as is commonly witnessed, the use of this power is al- most overwhelmingly abused. The nightwing owl is known to also feast on the smaller, unsuspecting members of the squires, so keep them close. Notice References Tiberius Rak, Warrior Priest of the Cold 1. Anne Summers, How to Snuggle Whilst Avoiding Being Dawn, invites all religious leaders to the Eaten camp of the Cold Dawn for refreshment 2. Bob Baker, If its fluffy, its gay and lively discourse on the state of faith 3. Voya Rishem, Sights that’ll Shock the Kids within Orin Rakatha, and an opportunity 4. Domen Ator, Roleplay Inspiration for Advanced Play- to share spiritual beliefs. ers 5. Belinda Dodds, My Boyfriend is an Owl, Get Over it Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC Page 13 The Restoration of Nature Magic III: pers though, the population is making a slow comeback [6]. Observations of potential natural use of magic by the The barking hedgehog often forms a symbiotic bond and Pudding Plant and Barking Hedgehog home with its favourite bush, eating the berries and dispers- ing seeds. Introduction: The once quite trusting creatures have since become fairly The second article in this series will be focusing on two hostile to humans and react in a similar manner to being other members of the community of life around the Dion- perused by their more natural predators. This reaction in- ate. Even more fantastical observations are included, all with volves a hardening of the skin and quills into a bark like sub- the aim of understanding the uses of nature magic, which stance harder than most known metals [7]. The protective are either a close guarded secret or forgotten art of the ma- effect can be eventually hacked away, but usually provides ges of Orin Rakatha. enough of a deterrent to allow the hedgehog a plodding re- The Pudding Plant treat when the most imminent danger has passed. I suspect The pudding plant is not a rare sight in many goblin house- that the mechanism relies on a drawing of protective magic, holds, indeed it is often used to garnish deserts [1]. Many of the other races regard this plant with suspicion though due to the acrid smell of faeces associated with its leaves, earning it the affectionate alternative name of ‘turd weed’ [2]. It is however for this exact reason that goblins enjoy its addition to meals [1]. I have been assured it tastes every bit as similar to how it smells, especially when placed into a pipe com- prised of magic herbs [3]. A common side effect of which is ‘bowel breath’. The main reason this plant caught my attention however, was due to the rapid ability of it to grow when damaged. Of- ten pudding plants can regenerate around 50% (95% confi- dence interval of 35% – 73%) of their total mass in a matter of hours [4]. This ability however seems to be constrained to short bursts, and this feat cannot be replicated for a few The Barking Hedgehog of which the source is a stronger natured symbiosis with its beloved flora companion than we might have first expected. The hedgehog after all also eats the pests which threaten the bush, and the bush in return provides its strength to shield the hedgehog from harm. References 1. Fangdragora Grumbles, Meals, what’s is GOOD 2. Lucy Colon, Common names for Common Plants 3. Palin MacGregor, Personal observations carried out on fellow Vagrants 4. Darlie Chimmock, Gardening Despite Lower Back Pain 5. Patty Crumby-Ring, Myths about our Aquiline Friends 6. The National Survey of Animal Populations – Proceed- The Pudding Plant ings of Infrastructure and Life in Elven Suburbs (PILES) 7. Moh Scale, The Hardness of all Known Objects weeks [4]. I believe that the pudding plant may have mas- tered a method of tapping into the magical energy surround- ing it to rejuvenate its tattered body. Upon moving the plant by Palin MacGregor1, Illowyn Orchediaeas to a new location or giving it a large supply of fresh human manure, it did seem to lower the amount of time it needed to perform a cycle of rapid regrowth. Perhaps with more inves- tigation we may be able to gain the ability to rapidly heal our Looking for Love own wounds under the use of a refined form of this magic. Do you like long, romantic (and den- The Barking Hedgehog grous) walks in the Underdark? The barking hedgehog is a now fairly rare creature, often Does the sound of an evil, spider god- mistakenly assumed to bark in a similar manner to a dog, or dess make you tingle in anticipation? a threatened/angered/happy orc [5]. The small bush dwell- Does dark skin set your heart aglow? ing rodent usually potters around minding its own business Are you looking for your soul mate? with a set of soft and shiny quills on its back. It was for this Contact Araya in the Summer Stars reason so many of these tiny legged mammals were hunted for their unique fur. Since the banning of hedgehog slip- Page 14 Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC The Faculty of the Divine Pantheon A Short Discussion on Faith, and the Legion As someone who has recently their forms. By hammer, discovered the Emperor’s light, I by blade and by prayer understand how one may think the will the Legion seek the faith of the Legion is simple and guidance of the Em- universal. However, my time with peror as to how best deal the brotherhood has demonstrat- with such abominations. ed that this is simply not the case; When action is required though all share an unshakeable to deal with such a foe, faith in the Emperor, the nature the followers of Deimos Those of the Veneficus view the of that faith varies from brother to will be at the forefront of the faithful. witch, the mutant and the sorcerer brother. What separates us is firstly Barabas as the vilest form of heresy. Usually that which we find most corrosive The non-human is the natural en- the most puritanical of the Legion, and offensive to the Emperor’s brothers of this persuasion will fre- cause and secondly the length to emy of those of the Barabas. Be it fey, hordling or ettin, this arm of quently voice their concerns regard- which we are willing to go to in or- ing the use of magic or mysterious der to further his light. the brotherhood have a deep and ingrained hatred of all that do not items of power. The Veneficus see Though all Legion will oppose share the common ancestry. Though the use of such power as anath- the panoply of the Emperor’s foes, a limited tolerance of such creatures ema to the Emperor’s Way and will some choose to focus upon particu- has been necessarily adopted to fur- only utilise it in the direst of cir- lar forms of heresy:- ther the Legion’s cause, those of the cumstances. If such use is deemed Deimos Barabas maintain a natural distrust necessary, those of the Veneficus Those whose calling leads them to for such beings and, in quieter and will be weary and ever vigilant of the branch of Deimos hate the demon darker moments, advocate the need the user, whether a member of the most of all and will go to great lengths to purge them by fire and blade. brotherhood or not. to banish these fell creatures in all of Veneficus Alongside the chosen specialisms noted above, the faith of the Legion is also separated by the central ques- tion: does the end justify the means? Some members shun anything but the blade, the hammer, the shield or the faith and see all else as a step toward heresy. Others support the use of the weapons of the enemy to further the cause of the Emper- or. Though more of a sliding- scale than an absolute and rigid philoso- phy, the more puritanical members of the brotherhood are becoming increasingly concerned for the in- quisitive and the progressive. Some advocate that a greater understand- ing of one’s enemy aids in their de- struction; others believe that way dragons lie. by Marcus Stormcrow, Legion The Legion Leto Levo Legion For the Purity of Man We take pride in our human heritage. Those of green, red, or other such tainted skins; those that have tainted, not-fully-hu- man, blood; those the speak strange tongues; all shall be purged in the fires of hell. Join Us! For the Emperor! Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC Page 15 SUMMONING THE MAGICKAL NATURE SPIRIT AN EDUCATIONAL RITUALISTIC INSTRUCTION by Belfreid Bellamy of the Vagrants This is a document in which I will de- scribe how we performed a ritual that was able to summon a physical mani- festation of the Spirit of Nature, praise be unto him, or her! I know not what gender this spirit takes, if any at all, but I saw the green creature with my very own eyes and I am truly blessed for it. I apologise, I write with some excitement. This is some- thing my scholarly companion, Palin of the Vagrants, and I have sought to do for some time and I almost cannot believe that we were successful in our endeavour. Many thanks to all those of Palin leading the Ritual of Nature faith who lent us their skills as devo- of nature to be able to enter, should we told him to press the piece to his fore- tees, ritualists and incantors, I hope you succeed. We asked all those involved head as it would have the same effect. all understand the magnitude of what to sacrifice something. We received a I then asked each member of our en- we have achieved and that you will ben- range of generous gifts, from gold and deavour to speak their name and state efit from your efforts in the near future. magickal spells to blood. One brave elf their spirit animal. The results were... The ritual we performed was an ex- sacrificed her own ear to the cause. interesting; from the slimy slug to the perimental affair, as far as we know the 3) Palin and I had discussed the na- minty badger! I then asked all to raise first of its kind. The aim was simple, to ture of.. well, nature. We had deter- their voices in unison and cry out with ask the spirit of nature to return to the mined that it consisted of two distinct the voice of their inner beast. The world of Orin Rakatha in the hope that elements, both of which are alive; flora racket we roused was tremendous, and we may be blessed the ability of nature and fauna. Flora is the slow creeping before I knew it an emerald silhouette magic, provided we properly research growth that seeks the sun and forms loomed over us menacingly, weapon it and respect its power. This is some- great beauty. Fauna is the vibrant, in hand. Some among us drew their thing my esteemed comrade Palin has bouncing energy of creatures that swords, but I urged them to drop them devoted much energy to. I was happy crash through life and scream and snarl to the ground as I knew that we had to lend him my skill as High Incantor. I and love. Palin had set out to invoke summoned a peaceful spirit that would will now describe the manner in which some instances of plant life. He scat- not attack us unless threatened, as is the the ritual was performed. tered seeds and leaves and blades of way of nature. 1) Entering the circle – as usual all grass in the circle to attune it to the na- 5) Palin spoke at great length with the must enter in a focused and reverent ture spirits. I told everyone “We must creature, imploring it to lend us its pow- manner. As this was a ritual of such be strong like the oak, but flexible like er. After a time, the green man seemed magnitude we asked all other factions the willow.” appeased, and left back into the forest to lend us their faithful few, we were 4) To lead us smoothly into the mat- from whence it came. We all cheered surprised by their generosity. Ultimate- ter of Fauna, I had wandered deep into and left the circle in merry furore. This ly I believe we had almost three dozen the forest and picked a mushroom of may be attributed to the mushroom we skilled in the art of rituals within the magickal properties, that would allow ate. circle. I’m not ashamed to say it was a us to see into the spirit world and find Now we await further research from tight squeeze. We formed a wide circle. our spirit animals. I broke the mush- Palin to confirm what spells may exist 2) Sanctification and sealing of the room into small pieces and handed it to in this sphere of magick. I urge those circle – Palin sanctified the circle. We each participant for them to eat. One interested in the matter to read his ac- did not seal it as we wanted the spirit of our number was a carnivore, so I count of these events. Page 16 Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC The Faculty of Culinary Delights Dragons Blud Wyne - A Taster from the Pickled Pixie History This is an ancient Dwarven receipie that as been passed down through the ages. Now normally us Dwarfs and them greedy Drag- ons are mortal enemies on account of both races lyking gold. Us Dwarfs like gold, but them dragons are down rite greedy. Many ages ago there was a big battle between us Dwarfs and an evil ancient wrym Tay’Toe’Tall who wuz not only after our gold but also our unicorns and we wuz aving none of it. We mustard an army led by our legendary hero Glen Mor’Angie and marched off to fyte the evil dragon Tay’Toe’Tall and his brethren. It was an epic battle that lasted for many days and there was lots of death and fire and all that kinda thing. Anyways us Dwarfs got thritsy as it wuz hard work fyting dragons, and it wuz hot on account of all that fire but water was scarse so the Dwarfs had to resort to drinking the blood from the dragons. Well the dead ones. Dragon that are alive tend not to lyke aving their blood drunk. Even unre- fined dragons blood tastes quite nice, though it duz ave a sulphury after taste. Anyways the battle waged on and hundreds of Dwarfs died and many of the dragons as well. The mighty Glen Mor’Angie killed the big lizard Tay’Toe’Tall and wiv their leader dead the other dragons surrendered. Glen Mor’Angie looked over the battle field and saw all the dead, his brothers and sisters, his cousins, his friends and even his mum all lay dead. Their aint a dwarf alive today who didnt ave family die in that battle and so the most harsh swear word in Dwarf society is Tay’Toe’Tall. But out of that tragedy came sum good. My grandfather Ard’Burg approached a dragon and offered him gold for his blood. And cos all dragons are greedy little critters he said yes and so Ard’Beg took a barrel of it away and started to mayke a wyne out of it.

Recipie: You need: 1 barrel dragons blud, Sugar, Yeast, 1 pint Goblin Urine, Gold.

You take a barrel of dragons blood, ideally fresh as the older it gets the more sulphury it tastes. You heat it gently until just about simmering. You add one pint of goblin urine. Kobold urine works as well, but you need 2 - 3 pints. Dont use orc urine as although it get rid of the sulphur taste it adds a garlic tone to the brew that aint nice. Anyways you simmer the dragons blud and the goblin urine for one hour. The blud simmers down to a thick syrup. Once ya stirrer can stand up the blud is ready. You add sum water until the syrup is runny again then you add sum sugar, more water, then more sugar until there is half a barrels worth of the stuff. You then sprinkle some yeast over the mixture, and put a lid on the barrel. Leave it in a warm room for several days or a week. Then add more warm water until the barrel is full, stir it all and then leave for two more weaks. At this point it should have stopped fermenting. Normally in the brewing process you need to clear the wine or it is all cloudy, owever the Goblins urine naturally does this and so you can skip that. I once tried using the goblins urine to clear another type of wyne but it gave it an orrible coppery twang and so i dont recomend it. Now you get your bottles that ave been cleaned. Its a long and boring task to clean bottles, but i find that if you leave em outside your back door with two pints of dwarf ale the Blud Imps clean em for you. Anyways you pour the Bragons Blud into the bottles, then cork em. It is a nice drink already, but the longer you leave it the more flavoursum it gets. by Khobert (formerly deceased), Landlord of the Pickled Pixie Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC Page 17 The Faculty of the Mystical Arts Thinking Outside of the Scroll: Blue Magic A Collection of Novel uses of Spells by Famous Mages of Orin Rakatha, by Palin MacGregor Introduction last few meters of his journey though, a group of With the current return to Orin Rakatha and bandits who had raided his master’s house had the transformations of power and magic we teased the information out of his teacher. He are all getting used to on this new plane, I had no way to deny it either, the nine bloody decided it might be a good time to hit the toenails in a bag attested to this knowledge. books, cook up some magic herb cakes and Sam would know the delicate curves of his sit back and relax with some well needed re- master’s big toe anywhere [4]. The tavern was search. Anyone can read a scroll, cross their so close though! Sam was surrounded as he fingers and hope their spell will do some began to cast. He shoved a bandit clear off his good, but if you want to make it through the feet as they all rushed towards him. The man day with your friends alive and your lower intes- was flung into the aura of serenity as Sam fol- tines firmly in your gut, then a well-timed piece of lowed rapidly, the bandit unable to strike Sam as intellectual genius might be just what you need. So what he also entered. Safe but sad, Sam Sonite used his can we learn from our quick witted predecessors? fame and inheritance to craft travel bags for adventurers all over Orin Rakatha, hoping his luck would rub off on Looking through the literature it seemed very odd to others. me that so many mages did not enjoy the blue school of magic much. True the spells are seemingly harmless Cat’s Celeritous Counter Curse and a bit situational, but with some cunning, blue magic Mage’s of the wind are known to be some of the fast- can be a saving grace or a deadly weapon. I’ll share some est talkers in the world [5]. Their command of the air stories with you I came across of particular note. makes them forget that not everyone is so attuned to its Petricia Puff ’s Perishing Push vibrations and flow, often making them seem over ex- cited and giddy. It is often the case too that the more you Perhaps one of the most famous uses of blue magic say, the less of it will be interesting. This can be annoy- came from Petricia Puff [1]. A powerful ritualist (and ing for most people who prefer to be surrounded by the notorious dwarf), Petricia was calling upon a spirit of sullen, moody monotone of other warriors of seasoned wealth to transform her silk worms to gold, when in- battle, or of those trying to sleep. stead a large demon emerged pre- Cat was one such over-active speak- ferring to change her into its next er who gained back some of her bowel movement. Petricia instantly respect by founding a new use for closed the circle and cast a repulsing the repulsive spell in her repertoire. gust of wind knocking the demon On hearing the first note of a spell back half way through its generic in an enemy, Cat would outpace the evil-doer speech (usually this is mage word for word and shove the frowned upon, but it was an emer- mage backwards completely inter- gency). The sudden gale shoved the rupting their spell. Timed well, this surprised demon through the en- could even knock the foiled indi- trance of the ritual circle. For those vidual into a sticky situation and of you who don’t know the result guard an ally in one fell swoop. of trying to cross the barrier of a Next time you tell your chatter box closed ritual circle, it’s a swift and of an air mage friend to shut it, just awful demise. The demon was ter- remember they might just save your minated, the smell of brazen trot- life. Whether you want to keep liv- ter and overdone bacon the only ing when accosted by that incessant remnants of its tyrannous presence. chatter though is a matter left up to You’ll be glad to hear that after a the individual to decide. large amount of therapy, Petricia was well, although sadly a permanent vegan which led References to her later assassination by the Legion as an ‘unclean’ 1. D Oven, Devastating Effects caused by the Con- [2]. There are few other spells you could employ to take trolled Delivery of your Wind down such a tremendous foe, and Petricia Puff will al- 2. Summ Tossah, Vegans Aren’t Humans ways be known as a mage of renown. 3. Anon, The World isn’t Worth Saving Unless I’m the Sam Sonite’s Safe Sojourn Richest Man in it. Sam Sonite was a timid young mage’s apprentice, 4. Tony Phalanges, Skin and Keratin: The Raw Confes- asked to carry a very valuable brassiere for a few miles sional to the tavern for a trade of information [3]. Most people 5. Lorelai Gilmore, Shut up all of you; I’m speaking wouldn’t have looked twice at the unassuming mage’s ap- now prentice, a perfect cover for an item of such value. In the Page 18 Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC Advertisement Clarification In a previous edition of the Academy Journal an advert was placed on behalf of a group of individuals, known as the Mordent Sisterhood, who were looking to recruit new like-minded colleagues into their group. Apparently the advert may not have been fully clear in its intention. Despite being made by the “Sisterhood”, and wanting its members to “rise up and take control of those ignorant male fools” because they felt that “the males around you ignore your opinions”, it would appear that not all of those that responded to the advert fully understood that they were only looking for female applicants. One such applicant, we’ll call him ‘K’, apparently misunderstood the Sis- terhood’s intent causing them to take offense in the process, and later than day met the sharp end of their messengers. We hope this clarification will help others from making the same mis- take, and for context, here is the previous advert in full: Join the Mordent Sisterhood - “Power, wealth, control, knowledge, dominance.” Are you feeling weak and worthless? Are you relegated to cooking and cleaning? Do the males around you ignore your opinions? Then it is time to make a stand! The Sisterhood is looking to recruit like-minded individuals to rise up and take control of those ignorant male fools, and show them who is really in control here! Interested applicants should leave a written message for Sister Mez’Barris with the tavern barkeeper. The Faculty of the Mystical Arts We implore our wish to restore the power of Nature Magic, The Return of Nature Magic his magic, back to Orin Rakatha. He inquires for whom this A Gift of Beltane power is destined. As a Vagrant I cannot deny that I wished It was in the lush forests of the Dionaite that Erellion for the power to be given to those of moral standing, to came to us. A thirst for red wine; imp’s blood of course. those factions gathered here honouring him and calling him Even Poops behaved, not a single breast in sight. Only the forth with us. The Green Man is displeased with this answer. best for such an honoured traveller. With a sage wisdom and that same faint smile he reminds Our elven guest brought us news of celestial magnitude; a us that nature can be cruel; in nature there must be balance. rendering of the seasons so profound that the opportunity I know this to be true, and feel ashamed in my heart that I of commune with one of the most powerful of forces was thought my own animus could bend the most fundamental possible. This time was Beltane. A festival to mark the setting rules of our world. I quickly admit that for nature magic of spring and the dawning of summer. to be released it would only be fitting if the The height of floral beauty, the first entire world were able to access it, for that rites of passage for infantile fauna and is truly the only way for the scales to remain the seductive promise of natural abun- equal and for nature to have its parity. It is not dance. If we were to call upon the mag- the outcome I wanted, but it was the outcome ic of the wild, it was soon. Four hours that I knew inside was always necessary. from the zenith, the Vagrants decided With this admission, the Green Man is satis- we would stand together and call upon fied and asks who amongst us wishes to learn an ancient magic. his art. A small sea of hands suggest that An Audience with the Green those gathered are keen for instruction. A no- Man ble voice of countless age addresses all as if we were the unique recipients of his carefully Belfried led the ritual, and has detailed crafted syllables with his final proclamation. the workings and methodology in his Nature Magic is free, the chains separating it academic transcripts for the interested from our mortal minds shattered. The only caveat is minor, reader. But just know this: we succeed, and he came. The a period of time and diligent study to attune ourselves to its entity went by many names, ‘The Green Man’, ‘Nature’, but essence and prove our determination. We thank the spirit as what’s in a name? His presence was his signature. His face he fades, his easy grace vanishing into the aether before us. was a sculpted masterpiece of intricate branches and leaves, The ritual comes to its ultimate conclusion: Nature Magic his robes an eternal green. His voice was a humble whisper, has truly returned. but in it there was power. Standing on the edge of the circle, all within felt their mortal fragility. The Long Branch of the Lore Through the slight hint of a smile he asks what we desire. With the ebb of power trickling back into the world my Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC Page 19 attention turns to the pragmatic task of discovering what by and my rectum is bleeding. But this is not a story I wish new found energies we can summon and more importantly, to recount. how? Approaching the Master of Nature I feel the vibra- The read is slow going but fascinating, I feel like my head tions of the most melodic harmony to the new arcane notes will burst with all my new found knowledge, but I can’t tear resonating around us. Is it me, or does he has a newfound myself away. The eight colours of magic were once sepa- purpose to his gaze? He stands just that little bit taller, more rate. Distinct. From my point of Nature is composed of authoritative, more alert. Had he always seemed this grand, many of the colours. Nature makes up nearly everything. I commanding and magnificent? It was like part of his soul cannot seem to reconciliate this breakdown with nature at had been restored. all though, and no matter how hard I try to cast chromatic spells of water, earth, wind and lightning, my attunement to the elements is too weak now, I can barely manage to create enough wind at once to out-do my own digestive system. The implications of my sacrificed ability; to control elemen- tal magic to the ritual circle; manifesting itself painfully to me. Could it be my offering to nature had locked me out of its bountiful grove? I laboured for hours to understand the scripture, the prose, the subtleties of meaning, but the power would not present itself. It was on a dark night in the tavern after a day of frus- trating reading though the winds of fate stirred again. I’d had seven martini’s too many and missed the toilet twice. The evidence of my misadventure, a depressing wet patch on my robes and the smell of a defeated man. It is often in the most The Master of Nature speaks to me openly of the colours unexpected of times and places though that everything can of magic. Of the flow of nature tending towards the green change. Perhaps my sorry state worked to my favour. It may and brown schools, yet different in their own right from have been my rancour that attracted the Goblin barkeep. the elemental aspect of the colours themselves. These were Handsome by goblin standards, with my martini spectacles powers that he had tasted not in his being, but longed for like on, had he been any less of a gentleman, I might have woken a cherished and long faded memory. He can feel the change up in his slimy green though, I can see it: the new found power starting to course arms. This was not through his veins. to be however, he simply handed me a I couldn’t help but also notice a dazzling piece of art in his small book, tapped hand, a cup of beautiful craftsmanship. On impulse I had his warty nose and to inquire about this chalice, this ornate and arcane object trotted back to the of unknowable value. It transpired that this is perhaps one bar to do his job. of our only links to the mysteries of conjuring nature. The The book was an beautiful vessel is capable of creating potions and liquid to amusing read, a se- cure poisons; another hint at the true ability of nature magic ries of short stories and one of my and fairy tales about only real clues. druids, witches of The Master of the woods and chil- Lore gives me dren being taken for various sick activities. I was smiling at the name of a one particularly horrendous illustration when it hit me like a tome I should tree smashing to the forest floor. Nature magic wasn’t tru- seek out, one ly a colour we could see at all. The chromatic enigma was which details the cracked. Magic it turns out is more like the light refracted olden uses of from a prism. The colours are all there, merging, blend- magic, perhaps ing, overlapping, no magic is truly isolated from the others. within it I can There is also mediums that this light has to travel through, learn more of a composition of the aether configuration and character of how to weave the plane we are upon, which warps the full spectrum or spells from the causes an opaque blockade to the light in places, so we can- cryptic ener- not access it. The Green Man had changed the flow of magic gies we have re- in our plane, effectively removing an obstacle from blocking leased. the spectrum. The second epiphany was that there is magic The Chro- we cannot see, the ultra violet of the arcane world, the infra- matic Enig- red of mysticism. Nature had no colour, it was not a chro- ma matic discipline. It was a sphere, a portion of the magical The tome was spectrum in its own right. not easy to come Trying to bend water, earth and air to my will wasn’t work- Master Nature ing because my mind was pulling the wrong aetheric strings. Page 20 Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC In this new light I saw the power, and I felt it brand me. The power of nature yielded to me, or perhaps I yielded to it, and with practice my efforts started to show promise.

Of Flowers and Thorns I sit in a ring of flowers. They grew here moments ago as I sat down to meditate. They are beautiful. The thorns drip with poison. My powers are wild and enchanting to me. For every gift of mending I discover I find myself now capable of equal harm. The balance of nature, how had I had been naïve enough to ever try to stand against it? My abilities are still awakening and I see them coming to life in those around me too. A new age of magic is dawning, I can feel it. Perhaps the Green Man shifted more than I am aware. All I do know is that it is an exciting time to be alive, I hope I remain so for the coming years, my work here on Orin Rakatha is far from over. by Palin MacGregor, Vagrants The Faculty of Minstrels and Mummers The Legend of the Sparrow and the Phoenix Everyone knows of the glorious phoenix but itself for him, the fires within him grew tenfold and with a few know of the legend that saved it. burst of flames the wolves retreated. From then on the spar- The phoenix was more than r o w and the phoenix were inseparable halfway through its 56th life cycle, and travelled far and wide from having graced the skies for years snowy mountain tops to blistering alone. Sadly these years of loneli- desserts. ness had caused its heart to become cold Although both old and dying, unlike the and without a burning heart to restart its phoenix, the sparrow was not immortal. flames it knew this cycle would be its last. On the morning that the phoenix saw his only friend With its fire slowly dying the phoenix became weak had departed its tiny body, the phoenix screeched in de- finally falling to the ground unable or unwilling to get spair. Its heart rapidly began to cool. Desperately nuz- back up. It was then that a young sparrow did find zling its old friend, willing it to re-awaken, it noticed it, the sparrow saw the sorrow in the phoenix and that in its final hours the sparrow had laid a single egg. so did not flee but instead quietly sat with it. Night The phoenix knew that if it did not come back the egg after night the tiny sparrow kept guard of the would not survive. In honour of his only friend the phoenix without a sound. Even when a pack of phoenix vowed to protect its offspring forever more. wolves came by to take opportunity of a In its own embers the phoenix hatched the egg, aris- rare treat, the sparrow puffed its feathers ing in time to care for the chick. and re- fused to leave in the face of And so began a new life for the phoenix who would sure death, unwilling to leave never be lonely again as over the years one sparrow became it’s defenceless charge. four and four became fourteen until this day when the phoe- At this moment the phoe- nix nix soars with a flock of sparrows, all descendants of his turned its head for the first time, first friend who he has never forgotten. seeing the brave tiny bird willing to sacrifice By Lilthkoi Oniwakahisa COBALT DRAGON MERCENARIES FOR HIRE WILL BE AT THE HUNTING MOON AND THE BRAVOS BLADE GATHERING. Need some extra muscle, someone to carry out recognisance, or a boost to your rituals? All jobs considered, contact Quill Paymaster to discuss further and arrange a contract. Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC Page 21 The Faculty of Ritualistic Endeavours the ritual circle had affected subsequent rituals. It is strongly Thoughts on the Ritual Circle recommended that ritualists do not spill alcohol in the cir- A cross-faction group of the Ritualists have been confer- cle, and consult with the Lady Crow concerning the con- ring about how best to use the Ritual Circle, and a number sumption of alcohol within a ritual. of interesting suggestions have been made. It is recom- mended that all ritualists intending to use the Festival ritual We demand a lot of the circle, and to be respectful, maybe circle read and consider the points that have been made. we should also commune with the circle without demands. My esteemed colleague Honsou has pioneered this, spend- The author of this work stresses that this article contains ing time in the circle just offering time, his peace of mind knowledge contributed from many wise ritualists, and fur- and other things to the circle, with no thought of reward. ther ideas and contributions in the inter- The Legion are known to pray in this ‘church’ with- ests of furthering our understanding out demand as well. Crow has confirmed of the ritual circle. This is vital to that the ritual circle can be used this way the ritualists, as there is recognition without the need for booking. that the circle itself does not stay the same but is itself evolving, and If the dangers to using the ritual may even becoming more dan- circle increase, we should be consid- gerous. ering better defensive arrange- ments to protect participants, It has suggested that maybe and their goals which often the ritual circle is not a sen- involve the protection of Orin tient being but a lense, focus- Rakatha itself. At present, sing the powers of the ritu- once a circle is sealed, the cir- alists, contributors and gifts. cle is regarded as impenetrable. However, this has not been Thus, if something goes wrong proven one way or another, in the circle, forces defending on and at times the ritual circle the outside may do nothing but watch has appeared to behave almost in events unfold. However, it may be that a human manner. The author rec- the seal isn’t as immutable as we have ommends that the ritual circle is assumed, and that there may be ways treated as sentient unless proven oth- that selected people may pass through the por- erwise, and other strategies are identified. tal, in either direction, to deal with threats. It is hoped that Unfortunate errors in cleaning the circle has led to ritual the High Incantors may study this possibility with Crow failure in the past, and the author recommends that not and Professor Jones, to see what can be achieved. only is the ritual circle cleansed at the start of the ceremony There are thoughts that the use of symbols in the circle but also at the end. This is in respect not only for the circle may enhance its effect. Again this would require experi- (as it may be some time before the next ritual begins) but ment. Sadly, Malacoda, who was expert in the use of sym- also to help the next users of the circle. This practice has bology within the circle, is no longer with us, but a study already been adopted by many ritualists. of his papers may reveal powers that we could consider Another recent development was the observation that employing the spilling or possibly even the consumption of alcohol in by Kay Drakken, Warriors of the Crimson Winter Please help!! My Name is Talia I am from Melandir. I am be- ing held against my will please, please, help. I think my friend Thanton escaped. Find him and he can point the way. The Journal is looking to hire more staff!

Cash rewards are offered to the best content writers, and regular content contracts can also be negotiated. News columnists, bloggers, advice writers, sports reporters, com- ic artists, interviewers, rumour mill grinders, illustrators, creative writers, cartoonists, personal’s manager, war correspondants, por- trait artists, agony aunts and uncles, fashion writers, and guest au- thors are all sought to bring news and entertainment to the masses. Put your skills to work and make a name for yourself. Contact the Academy Journal now! Contact your local field professor for more information. Page 22 Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC The Faculty of the Past and Present The Warriors of the Crimson Winter There are men of The Cross and The Hammer, A few of the Moon Crescent, Men simply searching for Glamour, Some concealing their royal decent.

The axe bearing foreigners, they have aptly named us, Though we come from afar, Diversity is what unites us, Warriors of the Crimson Winter

The Warriors of the Crimson Win- of frozen blood, and sticky gore. If you die before achieving it, you de- ter are made up of a band of creatures We set a fire, went to the tents of serve to die.” and humans who have fled or been ex- the former generals, we found strong iled from their homelands, they travel beers, aged ciders, meads and fine Kraagdush - on the battlefield on the as mercenaries, seeking out the riches wines. We rejoined at the fire and de- last night of the Crimson Winter. of the lands: bounty hunting, under- cided to band together to form a new People have joined us, people have taking any task for a price, and going group. wherever they will be paid the most in died. The fire moves on, and the drinks “There are many who have fallen vary as fortune smiles or betrays, but reward. At first many of them travelled today. The twisted frozen faces of the alone, but the lands were arduous and we will always be the Warriors of the dead stare in horror as they realise that Crimson Winter. often infested by creatures that they they are forgotten. I could not tell you stood little chance against alone. One the name of any man who has fallen by one they have met up and become today. Of course wives will remember The Eddicts the Warriors of the Crimson Winter. their husbands, mothers their daugh- 1. Never break a deal with a custom- Now they earn coin together, sup- ters, and fathers their sons, but they er (unless there’s profit in it) port each other, and battle together. will soon be forgotten. It is not enough Within any group there are clashes of 2. Never leave a man behind (unless for us to live and die. We live for our there’s profit in it) characters, and this group is no differ- coin, we risk our lives for our coin, but ent, some of them may fight amongst there is only one day that we will die 3. The customer is always right (to themselves, but when it comes to it for it. On that day we will be remem- his face) they are a tight unit that stand together bered. We will be those never forgot- 4. We share the profits (unless you against whatever they face. ten. We will never be another bunch know you won’t get caught) of faceless cretins, trampled into the 5. Do not disrespect the dead (unless The Original Warriors ice. We have a duty to each other. We there’s profit in it) Three years had passed since’ The will keep each other warm, we will fill 6. Follow the orders of Urek & War of the Crimson Winter’ was each others cups, and we shall together Kraag (unless they’re clearly talking fought, it wasn’t a race war, we were make every single one of us into a leg- bollocks) end. We will not be the forgotten dead. all fighting for human lords, it was not 7. Never turn your back on the War- Each one of you is worthy of legend. our battle, we did it for the money! Be- riors of the Crimson Winter.” yond the cash, none of us cared who won, and we were all in the same po- sition, the elves, orcs, trolls, dwarves and goblins, they fought on both sides. But there was the one thing that we all agreed on, one was far better off dying than to sit again in the cold around a pathetic and damp fire. There was no turning back, it was do or die. Both generals fell. No-one noticed, no-one cared, we fought on. In the end, all that was left on the field were oppos- ing mercenaries. The source of coin had gone, there was nothing left for us to fight for, no-one left for us to report to, we are all that remained, sur- rounded by fields of twisted corpses, Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 17th High Sun, 2 AC Page 23 The Faculty of Artists and Authors An Ode to Lilth’Koi by Belfreid Bellami Nuzzle the troublesome one Guzzle her fun Watch her laugh, watch her run.

Spill those damn beans Eat all your greens Then crash through them, in-between.

A stick is a joy And we’ll whack all of yoi Me and old young Lilth’Koi She can beat any boy. An account of the Harvest Tithe, as described by Yfritte of the Summer Stars FIRST SUN. FIND OLD BAT, NO TALK JUST SIGN, KILL MANY SNAKE, TOAD, LIZARD. GET SHOT, NASTY ARROW MAN. TRICK SMARTYPANTS TROLL HAHAHA. FIND WEIRD SKULL THING. GIVE TO COLD DAWN - DONT WANT ANYWAY. GIVE ME NICE FUR. LEARN ‘RITUAL’ GET HEALY POWERS. WORDS. WEIRD ACCENT MEN TURN UP. IGNORE THEM. SHOW BOB OFF. VERY PROUD OF BOB, PEOPLE LIKE BOB, PEOPLE ALSO HATE BOB. GOING TO BREED BOB HAHAHA. PLAY WITH NAYRUN KITTY WIZARD HE FUN. KILL HORRIBLE NASTY JESTER. DIE. OH WELL. WORTH IT.

SECOND SUN. FOLLOW WAR FOR FIGHT. WIN. ALSO LOSE BUT MOSTLY WIN. WEIRD MAN IN TREES. ARROWS AT ME. NASTY. FOLLOW, TRY KILL BUT FAIL. NO HELP FOR LONG Yfritte, with Bob TIME. SHOUT AT FOR CAMP THIEF. NO MY FAULT. SHOUT BACK. WIN. GO HEAL PEOPLE, AND SOME MORE. NASTY SCUM RACIST EVIL LEGION ATTACK AURAYA AND MAKE HER HURT. ME HURT THEM BACK BUT HAVE TO LET GO SO TREYA CAN TALK. ALSO LOTS MORE OF THEM THAN ME... PROTECT CIRCLE SEE MEN ON FIRE. HURT FIRE, HURT MEN. DRINK ‘RUM’ ALL BETTER. NASTY SCUM RACIST EVIL LEGION MAN ASKING NAMES. HE CAN ‘F*** OFF’ AS COMMON PEOPLE SAY, NO GIVE NAME. MAKE BUCKET OF TEA FOR GUEST. HE NOT READY. DOES GOOD EFFORT. HEAL MORE PEOPLE. LEGION ASK FOR HEAL. NO. DO RITUAL. KNOW MORE THINGS. FEEL BLOOD LOSS. IS WEIRD. ATTACK THING. ANOTHER BLOODY ARROW. SEE SCARY HORNY THING, WAKE UP ON FLOOR. STARS SAY THINGS ALL I SEE SCARY HORNY THING. WRESTLE AURELION. WIN. WATCH PRETTY CARNY PEOPLE. IS GOOD. SLEEP. ‘Aurelion’ Page 24 Misthaven Academy Journal, Fire Day, 25 Planting Moon, 2 AC Cult of Death Uncovered Strange new cults are always Cults are commonly defined as a looked upon with suspicious “religious or social group with socially eyes, and cults with dark, fore- deviant or novel beliefs and practises.”, boding undertones are even although this definition if often given due to the secretive nature of its mem- more distrusted. And when bers leaving those outside its closed these religious radicals start enclave naïve about the true nature of using strange symbols and fol- its nature. lowing entities that are power- ful, but not entirely real, peo- ple start to get really nervous. “Socially Deviant” The Legion, whilst taking a census of the attending nations during the last gathering, started to notice that some Strange Black Circle Symbol of the people that were being recorded were sporting a strange symbol upon outcome will be welcomed by those them. This “black circle” is believed to outside of this closeted group of in- be an identifying brand for members dividuals. of a new dark cult that has formed and Some of the people within this new is starting to gain in members. cult appear to be coveting strange new The focus of the cult’s religion ap- feathers that they now wear visibly. pears to be the Crow, purportedly an What these items are, or what they do, Avatar of Death, or possibly “death” is currently unknown to this reporter, itself. How or why this group of in- but they are presumable linked to the dividuals were drawn together is cur- Lady Crow herself, are may potentially rently unknown and it is also unknown be granting great power to her new what their current purpose is, or what minions. their goals are, but where “death” is by Artemus Black The Lady Crow part of the plan, it is unlikely that the

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The Faculty of Flora and Fauna Misthaven Academy To maintain ongoing studies within the faculty it is impor- The Academy’s field units are now up and run- tant to ensure that stocks of various naturally occurring sub- ning and accepting applications from prospec- stances are kept at adequate operational levels. The retrieval tive members of all factions. of these items can be performed by Academy members as part of their field training, and any suitable donations can be If you are interested in knowing more about the Acad- exchanged for course credits via any on site field professor. emy, or you have any questions, or you wish to apply for mem- A notice shall be posted in the Academy’s field tent - de bership, you should contact your scribing the current needs of the faculty, and all assistance local field professor who will be will be gratefully received. happy to go through it all with All donations should be made in a suitable container and you, and arrange to have an in- within twenty-four hours of gathering to ensure the fresh- formation scroll sent to you for ness of the specimens. your convenience. Professor Milicent Filbottom No cost, no commitment, no conflict & no discrimination. All enquiries, submissions and requests should be made directly to your local Academy field professor.