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Heard in Haven: March 2001 Title: Softly Spoken Words Word starts to slowly spread reaching few ears, but there are those who are speaking of the incident especially amongst the Mongrels of the city. "You hear about that guy in the Song?" "I don't normally go there for the guys you moron." "No, no...I mean this big Mongrel fellow, he was talking to this little lady in there and the drinks must have gotten to him cause his voice got a little loud." "So what'd he say that's so interesting?" "He was talking about Mongrels livin' free and bein' equal and all that...I mean this guy looked like he knew how to handle himself, a true warrior." "Ahhh...he's probably just trying to talk big to impress that little lady." "I don't think so...he seemed to truly believe it was possible, imagine that...being considered equal and free." "Nice dream...doubt it'll ever happen, but it sure would be sweet if his words were more then just that." "Just imagine it....." This is whispered gossip mostly amongst the Mongrels and most of them would keep a tight lip if asked directly about it, but just like all rumours...they have a tendency to spread.
Title: A Modest Proposal ... Heard around the docks, and later the Rialto ... maybe elsewhere as well. Word does travel fast in Haven, doesn't it? "Heh. What'll they think of next?" One dockhand mentions to the other, as both work on unloading crates. His fellow, raising one eyebrow, pauses in his labor. "What're you talking about?" "Delphi. Didn't you see that group of robes walking around earlier?" "Yeah, so the mages're poking their noses around again. Nothing new there, they've been around a lot lately, lookin' fer people do to odd jobs, fixing houses up before winter, all that stuff. That Provost, what's-his-name, has his fins in everything these days. Guy gives me the creeps, lookin' pale as a ghost. Don't those fish ever get any sun?" The first worker just shakes his head. "This is new. Word is they're looking for a lot, or old building or something. Big job comin' soon. I hear they're gonna want something big built soon." "Yeah? What?" "An orphanage." "WHAT?!" "A place for kids wit'out no home, dummy." "Yeah, I know what it is ... just seems odd, is all. What's Delphi care?" "Hell if I know. Lots of kids around though." "Hey, isn't that Provost one of them feral mages? You don't think he wants to eat the kids, do you?" And the conversation continues, in several different directions, all over town.
Title: Strange Actions An illiterate mongrel boy goes by the gates of Atesh-Gah with a piece of paper in his hands. His presence is noticed by the vigilant guards who stand behind the gates, but his actions go unchecked as the boy remains outside the embassy. With a grubby hand, the boy crumples the paper into a ball then throws it at the gates of Atesh-Gah. He runs away, unquestioned. The paper goes unclaimed until one of Atesh-Gah's residents steps outside, treading on the paper which sticks to her foot. Upon detaching the paper from her shoe, the woman notices the writing. Scarcely more literate than the mongrel boy, the woman thinks only that the paper must be important, given the elegance of the script. She takes the paper with her, perhaps hoping that someone will decipher the meaning within. With variations, more and more pieces of paper are pitched at the gates of Atesh-Gah. Some are ignored. Others are examined by curious residents. Few, however, understand the words written on the pieces of paper. The words appear to be part of a poem. Hail the Son of the Sun, Lord of Lords and King of Kings. Hail the Essence of Fire, the Bringer of Warmth, the Power of Light. With Honor, Light must be Protected. With Duty, All who stray will be Punished. With Pride, the Kafir will be Destroyed. With Success, All will bow before the One True God. With Knowledge, the Poison will be Revealed. With Compassion, None of the Tainted will be spared the scouring of the Healing Fires. With Respect, Kafir of all stations will be equally purged. With Devotion, All will be brought to the House of the Amir-al. With Independence, the Tainted will be cleansed. Praise the Lord of Light and all his Children. Praise the True People. Honor and Glory to the Soldiers of the True Faith.
Title: Behzad on the Move A steady caravan has been seen trickling back and forth through the streets in the north of town for the past few days. Shudra and naraki leave the premises of Behzad Hall, bundles on their backs - sometimes even carrying furniture that are loaded onto wagons, carted to the gates of Atesh-Gah and carried inside; the servants then return to fetch a new load at the clanhall and repeat the procedure. Seems the Warlord of Behzad, Hakan Adham-Numair al-Behzad, has decided to bring a goodly portion of warriors and clanspeople with him and move into a reserved suite in the Varati embassy.
Title: Workers Wanted! To those who spend their early mornings in the Rialto, the sight of the Provost or one of his assistants looking for workers is a common one: the Provost, as do many others, tends to hire laborers on a day to day basis, paying wages for a hard day's work on one of Haven's various maintenance and upkeep projects. One brisk December morning, however, the Provost seems to be interested in hiring rather more able-bodied men (and women) than usual. Word quickly spreads that construction of the rumored orphanage for Haven's homeless youth is set to begin at the intersection of Seaside and Vicina, just southeast of the Rialto and not too far from the Herald's Hall. Seems that the Provost has decided to construct the building using mostly local labor, and use Delphi's Shapers only in the later stages of work. In any case, the race is on to build as much of the orphanage as possible before the first heavy snows hit the city.
Title: Off to sea ... Once again the Amarada has set sail, heading south and east it would seem toward the Empyrean province of Acre, though whether their destination is the Sylvan island at the tip of this peninsula or the small outpost of Empyreans cultivating the area just north is uncertain. One thing that is certain though is that the Amarada has passengers on this voyage. Domina Jana Horatia Tritonides, well-known Oracle of Delphi, has accompanied Captain Demetrius on this journey for a 'vacation' of sorts it would seem - to flee the cold winter descending upon Haven and the tumultuous politics as well. Traveling with them as the Domina's rather illustrious chaperone and guardian for this journey is Reeve Lyranthe Zephirea Chryseis who has accompanied the young Oracle to guard her reputation against any inappropriate rumors or actions. But rumors have been fluttering over the docks since this summer when the Captain of the Amarada killed two Varati sailors that had been threatening the young Oracle's life. Since then they have been seen together often taking walks or flights, indulging in long conversations and at times rather playful interactions. Definitely fodder for much speculation and rumormongering.
Title: Sibyl's Return Word filters quietly around the Rialto and the Bastion, spread mostly by gossip: "Seems the Hounds brought someone in last night, out in the farmlands surroundin' the city. Someone they've been huntin' for weeks." "The Sibyl's back! Hey, that pretty little halfbreed gal's back." "The Sibyl? Who's that?" "When'd the Sibyl ever leave?" "The guy that did it was some city Sylvan. Strange bloke, 'e was. I got the creeps jes lookin' at him. An' I saw him when they brought him in! All snarling and red-eyed, like a demon outta Hades." "Bah. The guy they brought in was unconscious. I overheard a Reeve talkin' bout it. Hounds that went after him had to subdue him. He didn't wanna go down." "Heard the Provost, that fishie guy, Garret, went after him. Fact, it was him who's been lookin' for the Sibyl all this time." "That guy they caught, that Sylvan... I heard he's done lots more than just kidnap a Delphi mage type." "Y'think there'll be a public hangin'? Been an awful long time since we had one of them. Can't remember the last time we had a good old-fashioned hanging..."
Title: Lost Hound Perhaps it is simply paranoia, but it is whispered that the Hounds fear foul play in the absence of one of their number. A Sentire went missing several days past, after entering the Old City Gardens in the company of a Sylvan. No trace of him could be found, and it is feared he has been abducted, or even murdered... Of course, then again, he may have simply left town, but who would trade such dull gossip?
Title: Disowned? Rumours from the House Volaire abound and are spread all too easily by those servants and supposed friends to anyone who shall listen. It appears the youngest son grows steadily more withdrawn and apparently weaker with each passing day, surely illness is to blame for his lack of any ability to move both on ground and in the air with any grace at all. Perhaps to save the family further embarrassment he is to be discarded...as a failure... a miscreant unworthy of the family name where ever that stands, but then who would rebuild the wealth of this family. Either way there are few who see him as anything but trouble....
Title: Halfbreeds and Slaves... "So that halfbreed got his slaves in the end, then? I remember him looking for anyone who'd tell him where slaves could be bought." "Yeah, I'd never seen anything like that blue Empyrean before either. Still, he's gone back out to his villa in the country, taking at least ten slaves with him. You'd think a Halfbreed would have more care for Mongrels, but then I'll bet that flying fishie ain't got the feeling for people's emotions that his kin have - I've never seen or heard of any o'them with slaves, have you?" "No, never. Still, he said he'd care for 'em, so he can't be all bad." "Yeah, but do you really believe that? I think there's more to it n'what we've seen, and more to it than a retirement villa in the country - that blue Empy didn't care a feather for anyone else." "True" The two Mongrel women go back to their stalls.
Title: Hounds at the Temple Ruins! Sometimes, rumors flare out from Haven's marketplaces, spreading like wildfire through the city. Other rumors, like this one, propagate much more slowly, being of interest to only a few. In the early morning hours, a Hound patrol led by a Mongrel Sentire entered the old temple ruins in the northwest part of town, and politely but firmly evicted any occupants who happened to be within. That done, the patrol, which contained a rather mixed group of races, took up a guard position at the entrance to the ruins, preventing any from gaining access. When questioned, the Hounds explained that the ruins are currently the center of a minor religious debate, and that they have been made off-limits by the Provost, as a purely precautionary step aimed at preventing the escalation of tensions. Anyone truly interested will be assured that the Estrella will be looking into the matter forthwith, and that all further questions should be addressed to the Provost's Office.
Title: They Want to be Slaves? A couple of Empyrean servants are overheard talking in the Rialto as they do their daily shopping Acesian servant: I'm telling you, there were 10 to 15 of them, kneeling in the atrium begging the Dea to take them as slaves since their last master died and left them without a home. Jovian servant: Lucilla, I've heard some stories in my time, but mongrels asking to be slaves? Are you certain you actually saw this? Acesian: I'm telling you, I saw what I saw. Only one of them spoke though, a gladiator, even. Gods they're well trained. Said they were from House Euphonium, or they were. Small house that had been serving Acesius for a while. Guess that's why they went there. I think the Dea was even shocked at their appearance, though she took them all in and found work, promising she wouldn't sell them off or set them free. Jovian: I wish we had more slaves like that, that stupid kitchen girl tried to run away again the other day. Acesian: I don't think these will run away. They were even crying and in mourning, Empyrean mourning, for their Deus. The Dea was right though, nobility gives them mongrels a better life then they have living in the gutter. She even told him she hoped he would work to convince others of that and he agreed! Jovian: Did you say a gladiator? Was he handsome? Acesian: By Apollo's light, he's a mongrel. He had a beautiful helmet though, looked expensive. Said his name is Draco but he's called the Dragon in the arena.
Title: Orphanage Update Work on Delphi's orphanage has continued at a feverish pace over the last couple weeks, with the Provost bringing more and more resources to bear in a race against the seasons. Now, as winter tightens its freezing grip on Haven, it seems that Delphi's efforts have paid off, somewhat. The orphanage is nowhere near completion, that's true, but the general structure has been erected. There are walls, two doors, and, most importantly, a roof. The construction has all but stopped due to the inclement weather, but Delphi's orphanage has opened its doors to Haven's neediest children. Inside, one may find warmth, cots, and filling, if simple, food. While the bitter cold freezes the city, none are turned away from the orphanage, whether their needs be a simple bowl of hot stew, or some time near a warm fire to stave off frostbite.
Title: Dipavali Tithe All through the grounds of Atesh-Gah, preparations for Dipavali are under way. Submissions for the Lantern Contest are being hung in the courtyard, cartloads of clay and cotton are being shipped in from the varas for the creation of dipa lamps, and fireworks are being stockpiled. From the vara of Samar comes a caravan, not loaded with the usual assortment of household goods that Clan Al'Samar is known for selling in the Rialto, but with delicate paper and thin sticks of wood. The mystery of the paper and wood is quickly solved as the caravan is unloaded and the clan members begin construction. Nimble vaisya fingers create hundreds, perhaps even thousands, of small lightweight lanterns out of the paper and wood. The lanterns are as identical as handcraftsmanship can make them. Like all the other items being prepared for Dipavali, the lanterns take their place in occupying the increasingly crowded confines of Atesh-Gah. For now, it would seem that the lanterns are merely decorative. However, unlike the lanterns for the contest and the parade which are being displayed in the courtyard, these simple lanterns are not lit. Instead, they remain dark -- their purpose as yet unknown.
Title: The Word Spreads The words spoken by the burly Mongrel in the Siren seem to spread....they are quite though and take time, but the idea starts to come to other Mongrels. The idea is the one of freedom and equality....that just because the blood isn't as pure as another's doesn't mean it's unclean...they are living and therefor should be afforded the same rights. The rights to rule over themselves and to have the choice to do as they please. And so the word continues to spread, fueled by the idea's of this as yet unknown Mongrel that most say could be a true warrior...one to even stand against a Varati. And like a dream the word slowly spreads....
Title: Presumed Dead! News has returned to Haven from the East, messenger upon messenger having flown from the small Empyrean settlement of Acre to finally reach the city. It would seem that a trader ship, the Amarada, was caught in a fierce storm just past the peninsula. Tragically during that storm one of the passengers, Oracle Jana Tritonides, was swept overboard when she ventured out onto the deck rather than remain below deck as advised. The Captain of the Amarada went overboard as well in his apparent attempt to rescue her, his presence arriving just a moment too late, resulting in his disappearance as well as her own. Though Reeve Lyranthe remains on board with the crew of the Amarada, searching the waters and coastlines in the hopes of recovering the pair, it is likely that neither would have survived the typhoon and the raging ocean that swallowed them whole. Family members and Delphi are advised of the circumstances and informed that although search attempts are being made, there is little hope that the Empyrean captain and oracle survived ...
Title: Provost Missing? Within hours after the rumors of Oracle Tritonides and Captain Tritonides being lost at sea, Rohan Garret was sighted rushing through Haven's streets towards the eastern shore. A lone man doing some very early morning fishing claims to have seen the Provost dive into the chilly waters, leaving behind the thin white robe that was his only garment. Since then, Rohan Garret has not been seen around Haven, or within Delphi. All inquiries to his office are answered politely, stating that the Provost is on personal business at the moment, and will return in a few days. In the mean time, the Provost's office remains open, with capable assistants conducting the normal business of Haven.
Title: Parade of Lights It was a joyous display indeed when hundreds, even thousands of Varati joined up in the streets to celebrate the first day of Dipavali. The legendarily fierce people of Stone and Fire danced, sang and laughed, dressed in their very best clothes, and curious bystanders soon joined in, as the mood was simply contagious. Elaborate paper lanterns in all possible shapes and sizes were carried through Haven to keep the pitch of night at bay; among them was a large, silvery snake that wound its way back and forth to the amusement of onlookers, and also an impressive, black wyvern, the source for many children's awed gasps and pointing fingers. The Queen-Maharani herself could be seen, not elevated above it all but walking, like everyone else while handing out firecrackers to exuberant children and grown-ups alike - though the greatest surprise to many was when the very God and King of the Varati himself made an appearance, having arrived from Masada to personally partake in the festivities. The Amir-al delivered a fiery speech to infuse hope and pride in the hearts of his faithful, and once Khalid Atar's last words had echoed out, a grand display of fireworks lit the skies up, accompanied by the roar of jubilant voices that rose for the heavens, a wordless ode to their leader, to their beliefs. It was a truly magical evening, though the festival itself has only started.
Title: An Anonymous Benefactor Just as the cold seems to grip Haven in its unyielding grip, another benefactor seems to have stepped up in order to help the needy, homeless children of Haven. Arriving on Tuesday morning were nearly a dozen Empyrean men, each dressed in a dark brown toga and thick woolen pallium of the same dark brown - prepared to work under any condition. The men also brought with them five wheelbarrows full of food, as well as escorting an older mongrel woman, Etta, towards the kitchen. Etta wasted no time in securing her place among the others - tying a white apron about her thick waist and rolling up her shirtsleeves in order to help with the ever-growing need for hot, filling meals. When pressed for information of why they are there, the tallest and most golden of the men - one Valerius Simonus - will only say it is to help the children of Haven.
Title: Atesh-Gah Aglow The Varati of Haven have been busy making dipa lamps and as the sun sets, the paper lanterns hanging in the courtyard of Atesh-Gah are joined by the thousand flickering lights of the oil lamps. Atesh-Gah looks like it has been attacked by a thousand fireflies as the lights are accosted by the wind. Many Varati continue to make dipa lamps and the grounds of Atesh-Gah are open to all curious Havenites. Indeed, some Havenites do venture into Atesh-Gah and leave with dipa lamps of their own. Yet, the wonders of Dipavali do not cease for the construction of a large wooden edifice has begun on the western side of the Atesh-Gah courtyard. Vaisya shapers are hard at work but, so far, the edifice resembles nothing except a large pile of wood.
Title: Fighters in the Arena It has been several weeks since his discharge from the Guard, and the young Dominus Maximus Areides has not been seen for quite some time, having locked himself away in the confines of the Palladium. But that has been over a week ago, and there have been sightings of the young man, dressed in simple winter clothing and a large wolfskin cloak, outside the Palladium. In fact, young Maximus has been seen spending more than a few afternoons in the Coliseum and in the training areas of the warriors of the games. When he was questioned by one of the officials of the arena, the Dominus mentioned that he was, indeed, seeking warriors that were fit to represent the House in future games. Though the House has made no official statement on the matter, it is apparent that this has become a personal interest to the former Praetorian.
Title: Queen-Maharani Makes Announcement On returning from the Day and Night Gladiatorial Games, the Queen-Maharani of the Varati made a brief statement to the huge crowds still gathered in the courtyard of Atesh-Gah. Garbed in her traditional blue sari, Thalia Jovia Tritonides Khalida spoke to the Children of Fire, and with her words, sent a message of apology to the Empyrean House Augustus as well. The impromptu address began with the Maharani offering condolences to Deus Versus Xanthio Augustin of House Augustus, on the death of one of their gladiators. Emrys Claudio Dardanian was inadvertently killed during the games, dying of wounds sustained at the hand of Clan Behzad's gladiator, the naraki known as Fenimos. Praising the Augustin gladiator's bravery, the Queen expressed regret over the man's death, but said he died with honor. Then the Maharani eloquently urged the Children of Fire to increase their celebrations, explaining to the candala present that this was important in order to offset the misfortune that had befallen the Dipavali event. "Due to the injuries and losses sustained during the Day and Night games, we must celebrate all the harder now, in order to bring joy and peace, goodwill and blessings upon the new year," Thalia was heard to say. The hour being quite late, the Khalida and her attendants withdrew shortly thereafter. In the hours since, the faithful have indeed begun to celebrate with increasing vigor. Atesh-Gah's courtyard is seldom completely empty, the Children of Fire and their guests dancing and singing together, the revelry ongoing throughout most of the night. Lights and lanterns flicker and dance as well, carefully and reverently attended so that they continue to hold off the darkness. And it begins to seem as if most of Haven now joins with the Varati in their festivities.
Title: A Not-So-Anonymous Benefactor The fanfare is not tremendous. But nor is it meager. Heralds are sent out from the Empyrean Empyre, carrying the word on white and gleaming wings. The Emperor, Deus Maximus Arius Stavros Thanatos I has announced a gift to the city of Haven. While others send a handful of workers, the Empyre is giving financial assistance to provide for the building and maintenance of the orphanage. The gift is part of a new program passed by the Aegis to build orphanages in all of the provinces of the Empyre. Emperor Arius has also challenged the leaders of the other great nations to contribute to the welfare of the city of Haven. He encourages others to be generous in providing for the homeless children. The Empyre has shown its greatness in offering the donation, and other nations who wish to show their own greatness should follow the Empyre's lead.
Title: More Mongrel Mutterings Once again it seems that a small ripple runs through the Mongrel population, this time it is spoken more openly and some even seem to take some pride in it. "Hey...you see the last games?" --"Yeah...man that was great, that move that those guys made...killed that Empy." "Damn fine show of skill, then they turned thier backs on the nobles...and that Mongrel gladiator actually saluted and bowed to us Mongrels in the seating...damn gutsy move you ask me. What is his name?" --"His partner was that Varati Rakshasa. The Mongrel was Fenimos....wish I had guts like that, turn my back on all the damn purebloods and show 'em we're equals." "Best be careful with talk like that...people might hear you." And so the word continues to spread slowly through the more rebellious Mongrel population and it seems they have found a focus point to use as a rally point.
Title: Slaver A slaver by the name of Nassur has recently set up shop. He is looking for new stock and has some knowledge in the training of slaves. (For those who wish to be chased down sold ECT this is a good start. You can contact me in page or @mail to work out the details. For those who have slaves and wish them to be trained you can like wise page or @mail me. Above all I am not looking to abuse any one so, so we need to talk oocly to work out the details)
Title: Memorial Service Following the recent news of the demise of the young Tritonides Oracle from Delphi comes a proclamation from the Dea of House Tritonis. A servant stands at the gates of the Palladium in the Empyrean Quarter and reads the following: "Citizens of Haven - Her life was lived to the fullest - a young woman who took chances and made the most of whatever crumbs life handed to her. Remember the Oracle. Remember Jana Horatia Tritonides." Following his brief speech, the servant turns - passing word of a memorial service to be held at the beach on the evening of Tuesday, the 26th of January (RL Time Thursday, 29 March, 8 pm CST).
Title: Falling Lanterns The Varati Festival of Dipavali resulted in a slow, gentle rain of lanterns in the early morning hours of the fifth day of festivities. Due to the winds, many of the lanterns which flew up into the sky and flickered above the city of Haven like overgrown fireflies were blown out to sea. "Polluting Pasiphae," muttered one Atlantean upon seeing the return of some of the lanterns by the sea. Due to the delicacy of the lanterns, most of them broke into their component pieces upon striking the water and only a few were washed up on the beach intact. A mongrel boy was in the Rialto waving around a lantern that he claimed had hit him in the head. Being illiterate, he could not read the words written on the side of the paper contraption. "You have just been hit in the head by Raijin. He wishes you good luck for the coming year. The 16th of January, 3908."
Title: Near-Death at the Dipavali! Overheard in many an establishment: "Did you hear what happened to that poor Empyrean lady at the Dipavali? There she was, lighting a candle to send out into the ocean, just chatting about the Varati Queen--she's an Empyrean too, you know, all very strange--and BOOM! Out of nowhere comes this huge Varati man, saying something about how the Empyrean had insulted his queen, how he had to defend her honor. And then he tried to cut her wings off! Sliced through one of them before a group of Empyreans stopped him. It was terrible!" "Yes, yes, I heard that, and I heard the Emperor's aunt was there, too. Saw it happen, put a stop to it, and escorted the victim back to Delphi to be healed." "How horrible! Poor thing, to have to deal with that...but what's going to happen to the Varati who did it?" "I don't know. He got taken away, and I think Haven's going to deal with him."
Title: Ill Omens From the Varati quarter comes very different conclusions concerning the attack against the Empyrean woman. "Justified, if you ask me," says a kshatri man. "He was defending the Amir-al's honor. Halfbreed, indeed." The Varati women who hear these words only shake their heads and mutter, "Cursed, we are cursed. No good will come of this. Ushas, save us." Queen Thalia is also known be worried about the ill omens that the bloodshed portends. First, there was the death of a gladiator during the Night vs. Day games and now an Empyrean woman has been attacked. Surely, in a time where reconciliation must be made and all must be light and gay to ensure a prosperous and joyous year such happenings do not bode well.
Title: Laughter Returns For several days the chambers of former Hound Commander Altair Chryseis and his wife Andromache lay dormant, silent. Word has it that the warrior received a letter from deep within the Empyre, and left the city via a chariot bearing the House Chryseis insignia. When it returns close to a week later, it not only bears the warrior, but three small children as well. Once again, there is the laughter of children in the Chryseis Suites in the Domus Solum. And yet, there is no sign of wife and mother, which casts a solemn shadow over the laughter. No one knows for certain what has happened, but the rumors bantered about from servant to servant carry a common theme, that Andromache ran off to see her brother Endymion and left the children with him before disappearing without a trace. Hope is not high that she will return anytime soon, if ever.
Title: Oracular Return Strange cargo was disgorged out of a Merchant ship from Crelos onto the frozen docks of Haven, in the form of Haven's Provost, Rohan Garret, and the Oracle Jana Tritonides. Exhausted and near collapse, Garret was nonetheless in better shape than the Oracle, who seemed near death from exposure. The pair was quickly brought to the Delphic Infirmary, where both are said to be recuperating well after what rumor says was a harrowing experience. And where... is Demetrius?
Title: The Dipavali Curse The final night of Dipavali began well with the sending of ridahs to Ashur Masad and Ushas in the form of a giant bonfire. The sculpture of the sun which had been constructed by Khalid's faithful during the days of the festival was filled with ridahs, then set ablaze by Atarvani fire mages. Fireworks lit up the sky as people danced in the Atesh-Gah courtyard. It was a night to forget inhibitions, for Varati women were seen removing their veils and eventually the rest of their clothing, but the revelry did not end there. No, the burning sun sculpture was seen to writhe and throw hot embers onto the ground. People burst into flames. Cups and platters crawled along the ground like worms. Crazed Varati threw themselves off of the Atesh-Gah roof. People claimed to see demons in the night. Many more bizarre actions were taken and when the dust settled from the revelry, the chaos did not end. Dizziness, a faint headache, slight nausea, lightheadedness continue to plague the Varati who attended the bonfire. Other Varati are experiencing fever, memory loss, blindness, changes in personality, lack of magical control, hallucinations or have gone totally insane. In few cases, non-Varati attending the bonfire are also affected, but the Varati are the most affected. For the most part, the vigilant Agni-Haidar and kshatri warriors on duty kept the crazed revelers from doing more than destroying the grounds of Atesh-Gah. The chaos was kept mostly confined to the Varati embassy, though a few Varati did slip pass the warriors and take to the streets. Finally, in the day after the end of Dipavali, as the symptoms prolong themselves and as new people begin to experience symptoms, an ugly word begins to spread throughout the Varati quarter, "Poison."
Title: Delphi's Response Delphi's response in the wake of the Dipvali tragedy is immediate and obvious. As dawn breaks, Hounds are already fanning out through the streets in calm patrols to ensure order. Moving with them are Delphic mages, lending their talents and aid to Haven's citizens. Caduceans seek out and tend the sick to the best of their ability, while Cabeiri check the structure of buildings near Atesh-Gah that might have been damaged. Most importantly, ranks of trained Espers seek out any who have lost control over their magic, effecting temporary blocks wherever possible to stop the Aether's powers from raging out of control in those struck down by poison. In the midst of Delphi's action is the Provost, Rohan Garret. The rumors of his reappearance seem to hold some truth, for he looks even sicklier than usual, though not yet on the verge of collapse. He seems to have taken to leaning on a staff to support himself, but his demeanor is as serene as ever as walks through Haven, surveying and trying to assess the damage.
Title: Chaos Among the Atarvani In the wake of the havoc that erupted at the Dipavali bonfire, desperate whispers shoot through the halls of Atesh-Gah -- fueled by the news of what happened to one of the fire-elemental Atarvani who was among the afflicted. "Sweet merciful Ushas -- I saw the man, as the others were hauling him inside! He was screaming as if a wyvern were devouring him -- and did you see, did you see that tree that burst into flame as they passed it?" "They summoned me into the temple to clean th-this morning -- Hawk of Heaven protect us, I heard him howling, and I saw three of the Most High's priests racing to the inner rooms--" A broken sob, from the third of the shudra clustered together in a frightened huddle. "They were going t-t-to heal him... they called my mistress to work her power... the sick one, his magic went wild... he burned her, Son of the Dawn, he burned the Imphada Devaki...!" And now, as one of their own Adepts has been laid low, her face and hands severely burned, the priests of Khalid Atar must divert attention to her healing as well as that of those struck down by whatever has tainted the food and drink taken in by the revelers....
Title: The Hammer Falls Sometimes, even rumors from the Palladium can circulate throughout Haven, if they're interesting enough. Two long-time Areides servants can be heard speaking in hushed tones as they shop for incense, and black cloth in the Rialto. "I'm telling you, I was there," one says. "I saw him!" "Saw Dominus Areides? Claudius?" the second woman asks. "Aye. It was last evening, and he had just come back from the Eyrie, bathed, and ate his usual meal. He was in the garden, writing in that leather-bound journal of his, when he set his quill down and called that ex-Medeor over." "You mean that Davus fellow?" The first woman nods. "Yes, him. Anyway, he calls Davus over, and hands him the book. Tells him that he's finished his memoirs, and that he's going to be taking a journey to see Aurelia again." "Aurelia? Who's that?" The first woman shakes her head sadly. "His wife, dead now for years. I think Davus was taken aback at that. I mean, who wouldn't be? But Claudius just waved him off with a smile, and said something about he and death being old friends, and having an understanding with one another. Then the old man just leaned back in his chair, and closed his eyes for good. By the gods, I thought he had just fallen asleep, still with that smile on his face." The woman stops, choking back silent tears. Her companion just nods. "He'll be missed," she says quietly. Slowly, word filters from the Palladium and the Eyrie that the rumors are true. Claudius Areides, known for so long as the Hammer, has died peacefully in his sleep. His remains have been taken back to Civitas Dei to be interred next to those of Aurelia Penelope Thanatos Areides, his wife of over forty years.
Title: Clairvoyants Wanted! In the wake of the disastrous happenings in Atesh-Gah, the Queen-Maharani reportedly has issued a formal request for help from the clairvoyants of Haven. "I 'eard 'em sayin' she were lookin' fer anyone 'at mayhap seen somethin'," one mongrel boy says to another, as they look toward the Delphic gates. A nearly constant bustle comes and goes from the Citadel. "Nobody'd let 'emselfs be -seen- doin' somethin' like that," he continues, in a scoffing tone. A swipe of his hand beneath his dripping nose and he goes on with a sneer. "Leastwise, not 'less they're -stupid-. Varati, they gonna be mad. What of 'em's left." "No, you moron," his companion answers. Seems this lad has a little bit more in the brains department. "Like dreams 'n stuff. Who dun wha', or wha' hap'ned an' who all was there. My granny used ta work fer somebody who'ud dream stuff that'd hap'en sometime." He shrugs. "She were a'ways goin' on 'bout it. Said 'er lady dreamed 'bout the cook and then the 'Ounds came an' took 'er, she'd been stealin' money from the house. And then she 'saw' some other lady's necklace 'at got lost, and took 'em right to it. Tha's what they meant." The second lad narrows his eyes as more white-robed Caduceans leave Delphi and hurry northward. "Or well... maybe the kind 'at touches stuff, like a bed or a plate or somethin' and knows wha' went on wi' it." He nods consideringly. "Ayuh, ok. Know ever'thin', do ya? Yer granny were a cyprian and ye knows it too," the first boy taunts. The conversation ends abruptly in fisticuffs. It's a matter of honor.
Title: More Orphanage Donations Following Empyrean lead, one of the Atlantean Decemvirates has stepped forward to aid in the construction of the multi-racial orphanage. Bringing with her stocks and supply of clean linens and bolts of sturdy cotton for clothing, the Decemvir Amaris Aquamia made promise to speak with the diplomats and Decemvir of the Orman Empire in regards to having fresh seafood and other provisions provided for the children upon the better completion of the construction.
Title: An Odd Gift for the Hounds A most unusual gift indeed was dropped off at the front entrance of the Bastion, just this past day: a pair of Mongrel thugs, Jek and Marth by name, who had been quite expertly tied up. Jek, the larger of the two and seeming heavily Varati-blooded, had been knifed in the side; Marth, the smaller, looking a trifle Sylvan about the shape of his face and ears, was rather battered and bruised but otherwise unharmed, and in between babbling pleas for a healer for his friend, burst at the first sight of a Hound into a confession that he and his friend had attempted a kidnapping. Of whom, exactly, it was tough to say -- though diligent questioning could get out of the two men that they'd tried to take the child of someone of considerable influence, who had taken the child back and been thoroughly less than pleased at their attempt.
Title: It's a Good Thing the Weather's bad It's a good thing the weather's bad... That not too many people travel to the Eastern Beach by way of the alley from Seaside and Primoris. It's a good thing that in this foul weather even fewer came by, except... Except it was the notable and ignoble Bauchus Benedictine that came along that particular afternoon, to find some Empyrean woman standing in the street, staring at what used to be Tiberius Augustin's domicile. It's a good thing that no one saw that, or Bauchus' servants' heading in and retreating. Or the man's own exit. It's a good thing that no one saw what /was/ in that house, that so spooked servant and Empyrean woman alike. And it's a good thing that no one saw the long and blanket-wrapped bundle that was removed from said house, under the cover of darkness. Of course, if no one saw this, then nothing has been said, except that No One talked. No names, of course, but the rumour might murmur against peripheral attention of those who pay heed to such talk...
Title: Oddities at the Tavern "I tell ya, 'twas da craziest thin' me saw inna long time," one generic burly sailor says to another. "Hoppin' mad, both o' em. This itty bitty thin', an' a taller'un - that'un woulda been real pretty iffin it wasn't fer that black eye of 'ers..." Somewhere else, a tawny urchin relays the latest gossip to his friends, "Pranced 'round in torn silks in da Siren as if they owned da place. Ol' Moe thought he'd get 'imself some - even looked like he would, fer a bit - but they started screamin' an' shoutin'..." "...made d'torches go insane. Started flickerin' an' flarin' allover da place. And did ya see that glass?" "...flame. I tell ya, 'm not kiddin'. Da whiskey was set on fire." "Ran out screamin', they did." "Damn those 'rati."
Title: Strange Things in the Air? Over the past few days, in the hills north of Haven, strange white and tan objects have been seen in the air. They're small, about the span of a man's arms, and were seen in several different shapes. A mongrel man tossed these little gliders off the top of the hill. Most spun, stalled, and generally failed to do anything useful except convert several weeks of careful craftsmanship to scrap bits of wood, thread and fabric. Two however, flew well, rising on the stiff wind, circling several times before being lost to the forest. The mongrel was seen in the company of an Empyrean woman, getting pointers apparently. What a strange sight.
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