The Mortis Gazette - Weekly News #2

Strange Graffiti Found! Azmare Ink Proves Unremovable!

Local merchants and shopkeepers have reported vandalism on several Centremarket locations over the last few nights. What is worse than the vandalism is the fact that the ink used is apparently a type of ink used in Azmare that is insoluble in water.

The strange, cryptic slogans have no apparent meaning. Included are several of the phrases used but the Council of Barons has asked that readers be warned that these messages are most certainly nonsensical and likely the work of anti-mercantile groups known for demanding increased wages and market regulation.

"Wooly Wizardry. Crushed Dream."

"Knock Twice."

"Night Wanders Three."

When reached for comment, local scrivener Lars DeHavilland had this to say:

"I've been saying for years that schooling needs to be pushed further up the agenda. Young people get bored when they have nothing to do and an idle brain is, well, you know." When reminded the question was about the potential meaning of the graffiti he continued, "Beats me, seems like complete nonsense."

This reporter wants our readers to know that, no, we certainly do not know. Is this an alarming new trend amongst the younger counter-culture dissidents? Or is there something more to these cryptic messages? The Beluroc Constabulary has increased patrols in the areas surrounding Centremarket in response and wish the citizenry to remain calm.

A message has been sent to The Writer's Guild of Azmare to determine what, if any, methods can be used to easily remove the ink.

Local Tavern Fined for selling Naga Blood Rum. Barkeep Arrested.

Local Barkeep has been arrested and fined with Knowing Dispensation of Food or Drink Unfit for Consumption. The Constabulary has requested the name of the barkeep be kept out of the Gazette until after the trial.

Sources inside the Magistrates office have reported the man was aware of the drink's near toxic state and knowingly served the drink anyway. Reports also state that a server refused the order before being over-ruled by the barkeep and tavern owner.

As the name suggests, the drink is favoured by the Naga people and is comprised of ingredients repugnant to any non-Naga. Why anyone would have asked for such a drink who wasn't naga-born is a complete mystery. If this reporter may be allowed something akin to a pun: something fishy is going on here.

Local Nobles Burn Down Manor House

House Kell, known locally for their wineries west of the city, suffered a tragic loss yesterday. A fire broke out overnight at their Manor Home on Noble Hill. Several of their staff were injured, no one from the House Kell has reported any injuries.

Investigators are tracking down several leads that report a shadowy figure moving away from the house shortly before First Bell. A discarded barrel of pitch was found in the gutter of a side street nearby. Authorities suspect arson.

In addition to their Wines and Ciders, House Kell is known for their lumberyards working along the fringes of The Forest of The Living. Uriah Deen, the family's wagon driver was asked for comment:

"If you ask me it's those punk kids off protesting at the woods. I bet they just couldn't wait to toss the torch and start the fire. The Kells are good people, they didn't deserve this."

Admittedly, the accusations hold no verifiable truth and no members of The Wardens of The Wood have claimed responsibility. The Investigation remains ongoing.

Looking For Your Next Tavern Sign?