Black Thorn Resistance/Free North News Issue 8
Title: The Free North News Issue #8
Author: Various
OOC Disclaimer: The following is about Empire, revolution, settler colonialism, and it’s many consequences. The opinions stated here are to be taken in character and should not be taken as out of character judgements. It is intended as in character rhetoric. Except that we should have a rolton cryptid. Oh and do not insert into any orifices. Or do, I’m just not legally responsible for it. Blah Blah Blah ect. ect. ect....they make us do this
IC Disclaimer: The Black Thorns are more of a collective, and less of a organization with hierarchy and a roster. Please do not take the perspective of one member to apply to all of us.
The only thing fresher than the snow in the northern areas is the ink on the newly printed papers flying across the landscape
Guest Editor
To the Free People of the North,
One year has passed since Jovery's proclamation, and with it, a torrent of chaos descended upon the north. The clatter of invading ships and rumble of wagons marked the beginning of a relentless storm. Fire and lies spread like a disease, claiming the lives of many, each one a cherished soul in our collective memory. The thirty-one, the countless others—we hold their names in our hearts, a somber testament to the cost of resistance. Real diseases followed, spawned from southern pride.
Yet, here we stand, resilient and unyielding. In the face the relentless march, our spirit remains unbroken. We are the keepers of a legacy that refuses to be extinguished. Songs will echo through these ancient woods, telling tales of an empire that sought to grasp what was never theirs. They will sing of those who, in the name of freedom, defied the looming shadow, and of those who bartered their honor for fleeting treasures—silver, land, and titles. Silver, a metal tarnished and darkened, mirroring the empire's corrupted heart. But freedom remains as pristine as the purest snow.
Look to the Dragonsclaw, blanketed in the soft descent of snow, and you will see defiance etched into every branch. This forest, this sanctuary of life, bows to no empire. The snow blankets a city claimed by the invaders, yet the city proclaim boldly: It is not citizens of the empire that inhabit it but free people. The North is a realm of free people, and so it shall remain.
Month after month, they send forth their soldiers and killers, but our resolve does not waver. With every passing moment, more eyes open to the truth, and more hearts reject the chains they seek to impose. Freedom in the North is not a mere saying—it is a truth spoken. It is an observation of the will of the north, of its refusal to kneel before the tyranny that creeps from the south.
Let the empire send its legions, let them spill our blood on this sacred ground. For every drop shed in defiance becomes a seed, planting the roots of our resistance deeper into the soil. We stand united, a bastion against oppression, and as long as the brave among us continue to rise, the spirit of the North will endure—free, untamed, and unbroken.
~ Dendum of the Wendwillows, The Wind in the Willow, Archdruid of the Dragonsclaw.
Created in Midjourney by player of Dendum, Uploaded by player of Dendum With Permission
News
News From The North
- ROGUE MAGISTARS: Witchhunters have been deployed by the Hall of Mages to hunt down one of their own. The empire in traditional fashion has removed all ranks and privlages from the former Magistar after she becomes a threat to the north. It would be nice if they started doing it before they became a threat.
- FAMOUS AMOS: Amos, the criminal who supplied weapons to the Wraith used to kill innocents in the landing is still at large. Is Landing Justice Broken? He was seen at the recent Kindred games laughing without a care.
- EMPIRE PROBLEMS: As if the North didn't have enough problems to deal with as it concerns Turamzyrr. The defeated foes of the past have risen up, Talador Knights, Blameless....what's next? Jovery finally dies and we have to deal with his ghost as well?
- SOL SIPS TEA: Despite the turmoil caused by the empire in the Free North, Solhaven appears to be untroubled and is expanding its infrastructure, new schools and town improvements abound! How long can the death to the north of them go unnoticed?
- INJUSTICE AMONG US: The Baron's Brother paid for his crimes against the north by....being released and teaching young children magic. Why would you teach young orphans how to harnass such terrible powers at such a young age? Is the empire desperate for more magical power?
- BRIARMOON BECKONS: Briarmoon Cove, the famous port city west of Icemule and North of everything else has shown great interest in joining the still forming nation of the North. Perhaps they can help them figure out a name.
- TROUBLING TIDES IN TA'VAALOR: Pirates have been seen on the waters around Ta'vaalor, their forces seem ill equiped to deal with this aquatic threat. Travel safely in eastern waters!
- MAYOR MAKES MENTION: The Mayor of the Landing states that the empire would lose thousands of lives if they try to take the town! Does she have the courage to see if they are willing to pay that price?
- MYSTERY MONSTER: There are reports out of the Landing about a creature near Thrakmas decorations, described as an upright Rolton or a Man in Rolton costume. Purpose is unknown as investigations continue.
SPECIAL REPORT: BUGS IN ZUL
FREE NORTH NEWS REPORT: SOMETHING IS BUGGING ZUL! KIRAMON ATTACK!
Created in Midjourney by player of Dendum, Uploaded by player of Dendum With Permission
Dispatch from the Heart of the Mountain
UNPRECEDENTED MENACE LOOMS: ZUL LOGOTH GRIPPED BY KIRAMON HORROR!
In a spectacle that has shaken the very foundations of our beloved dwarven city, Zul Logoth, a malevolent Kiramon Horde has ascended from the depths, casting the into a state of shock and trepidation. Recent reports of echoing cave floods and thunderous sounds have now unraveled into a spine-chilling revelation – an enormous Kiramon Hive has entrenched itself dangerously close to the heart of our mountain sanctuary.
CLAN LEADERS UNITE IN A DESPERATE RESPONSE! ADVENTURERS RISE TO BREAK THE KIRAMON OVERMIND!
In a desperate bid for survival, the resilient leaders of the noble dwarven clans reacted quickly in organizing a response. A valiant cadre of adventurers, lured by the siren call of glory and duty, has descended into the heart of the Kiramon swarm, managing to break the Overmind's sinister control by beating it to death!
MASSIVE SWARM PERSISTS: DWARVES REMAIN IN PERIL!
Yet, as the heroes celebrated their triumph over the Overmind, a daunting reality unfolds – a colossal remnant of the Kiramon swarm persists, posing an imminent threat to our dwarven brethren. The battle for Zul Logoth remains fierce and uncertain, the dwarves fighting tooth and nail to reclaim their hallowed halls from the insectoid menace.
EXTRA! EXTRA! STAY TUNED FOR UPDATES ON THE EPIC STRUGGLE BENEATH THE MOUNTAIN IN THE FREE NORTH NEWS!```
Winterfest Royalty - from Jastalyn Dragorth
Richaard and Argent Aspis never fail to bring the fun, or the anticipation! Over fifty participants, friends, and socialites watched on as the festivities kicked off by announcing that Winterfest began at White Haven and the crowning and ball will be hosted on White Haven grounds going forward. At the end of his speech, Richard celebrated and remembered the very first Frost Queen, Bellaja and mourned her recent passing. We here, at the Free North Newsroom, would like to pass along our condolences and individual feelings of loss as well. Now, to the royalty of the day. Miss Traiva walked away with the Frost Queen crown. We were missing a queen, so we’ll never know how she placed. We hope Miss Yairra is enjoying her vacation and will rejoin us soon. With a difference of only two votes, the very dapper Giogionni walked away with his Frost King crown. Or, shall I say, strutted away! The Winterfest parade ended the evening with the Frost Royalty and their significant others riding in style among the beautifully decorated floats. Until next year, dear readers, when you might toss your hat in to become the next Frost Royalty!
Lovingly Yours,
~Jastalyn Dragorth~
Wildcraft Gift Giving Guide - by Rillarie
Created in Midjourney by player of Rillarie, Uploaded by player of Dendum With Permission
While it is little wonder that survivalist kits are a hugely favored item to any seasoned adventurer with the means, even a simple bundle of herbs for known ailments of a loved one can make an ideal present. If you are not inclined to meander through various environs looking for such items, consider seeking out members of the Ranger Guild or other wildcrafting enthusiasts to aid you in assembling your gift. Please note that it is potentially a bit late in the season to harvest and dry anything in most areas, but you can plan for next year! Once your herbs have dried completely, bundle them tight using colorful yarns, simple burlap twine, or anything else that sparks your creativity. You may also want to add some dried flower petals or pine needles under the bindings to give added interest.
In addition to medicinal herbs is a smudge stick, usually comprised of wild sage, lavender, or rosemary. These, as well as dried and braided blades of barley grass, produce incredible scents that can lift one's mood or cleanse a room both mystically and literally; some feel they have the power to keep unwanted spirits away when burned. Whatever your beliefs or uses of them, herbs are generally an excellent way to show someone you care.
Created in Midjourney by player of Rillarie, Uploaded by player of Dendum With Permission
Have you ever found yourself picking up beautiful objects like feathers, pieces of wood, or bits of rock while exploring? Even though you know you should leave them for others to enjoy, you feel compelled to take them. Worry not, for nature talks to all of us if we only listen! Once you get them home, you might wonder what to do with all these treasures. Why not turn them into a wildcrafted wall hanging for yourself, a friend, or a loved one?
To craft a captivating wall hanging, secure strips of rawhide onto a stick, a piece of driftwood, or even parts of antlers to provide a sturdy base for your creation. Arrange any feathers to varying lengths for an organic aesthetic, and secure them to the rawhide using twine, scraps of yarn, or dried and braided grass. Integrate small objects (such as pine cones) into the design, placing them strategically and adhering them with dabs of warmed pine resin. Once satisfied with the arrangement, create a loop at the top for hanging. This nature-inspired wall hanging brings a touch of wilderness to any space; you can also take the same steps after weaving coniferous branches to create a rustic festive Thrakmas wreath!
Created in Midjourney by player of Rillarie, Uploaded by player of Dendum With Permission
Finally, for the artistically inclined folk in your life, you could construct an assortment of natural paint brushes that offer fun and unusual textures for various creative mediums. These could also easily double as decor items, should your recipient merely decide to admire them! Begin by foraging for materials in natural settings, seeking sturdy twigs or thin branches as the brush handles. Select several different plant fibers, such as long grasses, leaves with fine points, or even feathers, can serve as the bristle components. Trim these natural fibers to various lengths based on your desired brush effects. Attach the chosen bristles to the twig handles using twine or natural fibers, ensuring a secure and even binding.
~Rillarie~
BOOM BOOM BOOM- Song by Leafiara
If you're alone and you need a friend
To stand beside you through all the danger
Just join the group, take each others' hands
And face invaders tonight
Woah-oh, woah-oh
This is how we'll pull on through
Woah-oh, woah-oh
Let's have some fun
Woah-oh, woah-oh
Our might amassed, what can they do?
Woah-oh, woah-oh
Boom, boom, boom, boom!
The pylon ship shoots doom!
A dozen shops to rubble
We're facing untold trouble
Boom, boom, boom, boom!
The reiver bolt rains doom!
As the Vale you're in gets pelted
Your melted face goes boom
Woah-oh, woah-oh
Everybody heal on down
Woah-oh, woah-oh
We'll come back strong
Woah-oh, woah-oh
This is what we're gonna do
Woah-oh, woah-oh
Let's get along
Woah-oh, woah-oh
Once we've regrouped, what can they do?
Woah-oh, woah-oh
Boom, boom, boom, boom!
Octaven's icy doom!
Six years of quiet biding,
Now everyone is dying
Boom, boom, boom, boom!
Mein golems bring more doom!
Some people won't be learning
Until their body's burning
Boom, boom, boom, boom!
The story's always doom
Each page of every chapter
Umpteenth corrupt Magister
Boom, boom, boom, boom!
Darkstone's bound to bring more doom
Best alert all our civilians
That death's impending soon
Joy of Thrakmas - by Aubron
Thrakmas
As a young child in the empire, I was exposed to those holidays most common in the empire. Upon reaching maturity and venturing out into the wilder world it was interesting to see which traditions were mirrored in other lands. You can find some festivals, with some major and minor variations, practiced both within and without the borders of Turamzyrr. However it appears that the Adventurers of the north, as well as the free spirited population, have often modified their holidays to reflect their local character.
Few examples of this are as extreme as Thrakmas. A Thrak, for those fortunate to have never met one, is a lizard of unusual size. They are normally at least 4 feet long and armed with a maw of cutting teeth and a sour disposition. At least some people find them edible though I cannot say I have ever had a fondness for the meat myself.
There is some disagreement if the term Thrakmas is a reference to this rather annoying beast or a reference to an aged warrior who lives in Wehnimer's Landing who, for unknown reasons, took the beast as his namesake. Either way Thrakmas is a thing, and it has been celebrated for decades in the North.
The festival takes places around the long nights of winter, upon which the citizens of the north start pelting each other with snow and gifts. The gifts range from small brick-a-bracks to items that would cause envy in the richest merchants heart.
A symphony of culinary wonders graces the Thrakmas table, accompanied by libations of potent spirits that ward off winter's chill. Illuminated skies bear witness to the display of mage lights and fireworks, casting a spellbinding spectacle over the revelry.
Nature enthusiasts, ever attuned to the rhythms of the North, adorn the festivities with hardy winter plants. Mistletoe, a perennial favorite, dangles overhead, serving as an emblem of shared merriment. Spontaneity reigns supreme as inventive games materialize in the blink of an eye only to be replaced days later with new forms of entertainment.
While uncovering the authentic history of Thrakmas proves elusive, attempts to encapsulate its essence collide with the unpredictable nature of the northern denizens. I posit that Thrakmas transcends the realms of definition, serving as a unifying cultural gem for those beyond the Empire's borders—borders subject to the whims of an addled sentinel sketching maps on any given Restday. It stands as living proof that beyond these borders, a unifying force exists, binding the people of the North. Even in the so-called "uncivilized" lands, customs and rituals flourish in abundance.
~ Aubron from Talador
Powerful Puns
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| Did you hear about the Knight who always ran away? |
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Sir Render? |
Ask Lithyia
Dear Lithy, We have recently moved locations, further north and away from those southern issues if you know what I mean, I want to reach out to my neighbours and continue our Thrakmas tradition of giving gifts but I am new here and was wondering what might be the best way to approach this?
~ Timid Thrakmas
Dear Timid Thrakmas,
It's a wonderful time of year to move north, don't you think? One of the best ways to reach to out to your new neighbors to continue your gift-giving tradition is to invite them all to a fabulous pub or tavern and host a party!
In fact, I know a place that specifically would cater to your every need! Have you heard of the Purple Kraken Tavern? It's brand new and located in Hope Alley! Just look for the oak-framed stucco building. The proprietor is very friendly and I'm sure she would be thrilled to host your event! The booze will help loosen everyone up and you'll all feel like you've known one another for ages!
If you're looking for a good way to reach as many people as possible to invite, I suggest using the bulletin board in the center of town! It's a new addition and folks love to check out the latest things posted to it!
Good luck and Happy Thrakmas!
Miss Lithy
This message sponsored by Purple Kraken Tavern and Red Wolf Distillery.
Created in Midjourney by player of Lithyia, Uploaded by player of Dendum With Permission
Other (OOC) Resources
Created in Midjourney by player of Lythia and Dendum, Uploaded by player of Dendum With Permission
Black Thorn Resistance
Black Thorn Resistance/A Guide to Playing in the Resistance
North by Northwest