TownCrier/Faction Attraction/TownCrier

This is a creative work set in the world of Elanthia, attributed to its original author(s). It does not necessarily represent the official lore of GemStone IV.

Title: Faction Attraction - TownCrier

Author: Yardie

Wehnimer’s Landing has been the epicenter of Elanthia, its frontier, and the nucleus of the social world. While the Shining City has its lustrous buildings and Vaalor its impregnable walls, the streets of Wehnimer’s infuses different parts of Elanthia through its vast and various population, which ultimately shares its information and gossip through different means and methods. Of course, that information is subject to various degrees of bias, making matters of import seem nothing more than gossip. However, one organization takes on the burden of vetting information and regaling the world with clear, unbiased news, serving the masses to digest and discern This is TownCrier.

Hosts and Members

Lady Luxelle Machtes the Bardess.

She appears to be an Elf.

Gracing her brow is a verdigrised copper ferroniere, the bright hue of the metal almost completely obscured by its verdant patina. Tiny spheres of blue and green amber provide flashes of brilliant color in contrast, the tiny gems hanging in strands around the entire edge of the ferroniere.

She is average height. She appears to be youthful. She has emerald-sparked lagoon blue eyes and creamy fair skin. She has long and pale, sun-kissed flaxen hair bound into a loose roll held at the nape of her neck by a pair of silver-twisted zorchar hairsticks. She has slightly upswept pointed ears. Her features bear a soft, gentle appearance. She has an alum-traced butterfly wing earcap inset in shards of glasswing butterfly attached to her ear.

Superimposed over Luxelle's form is the ghostly silhouette of a Ashrim guardian, a resolute expression on his face. As you watch, he shifts his stance purposefully as he adjusts his wave-etched espadon.

Miniature shimmering stars spiral outward from her before fading away.

She is in good shape.

She is wearing an ombre watered silk handbag slung over her shoulder, an ocean-dark elesine gown subtly embroidered with silver threads reminiscent of wave crests, a silver eahnor wedding ring, and some sparkling crystal-heeled slippers.

Whimweaver Leafiara Autumnwind the Defender of the Fallen of Wehnimer's Landing.

She appears to be a Half-Sylvan.

She is moderately tall and has a well-toned frame. She appears to be youthful. She has sparkling green eyes and smooth honey-hued skin. She has shoulder length, tousled cherry red hair framing her face in a disheveled, carefree style. She has a well-defined, heart-shaped face and slightly pointed ears. She has gradient scarlet-to-ivory polish brushed onto her smooth rounded fingernails.

Miniature yellow treble clefs spiral outward from her before fading away.

She is in good shape.

A budding sentient potato wearing an iridescent viridian and pink fairy costume is settled on her shoulder.

Her hands are covered in a light dusting of sugar.

There is a small ruby red sprite flying above her shoulder.

She is wearing a feystone dragonfly locket, a shimmering cherry red cloak, a radiant red zelnorn tunic accented by a shining white leaf flourish with a pure white starsilk sundress sporting a skirt-spanning red music staff underneath, an aelotian rose gold wedding ring showcasing a stylized dragonfly design, a polished knotwork platinum wedding band, and a pair of cherry red starsilk sandals sporting starsong-reinforced soles.

Colorful, wispy threads shimmer in and out of existence, twining and dancing freely around a white imflass manacle encircling her left wrist. Its empty keyway is outlined in a bold red glow that pulsates rhythmically.

With excited whining noises, a white-masked reddish brown puppy with high triangular ears starts to wag her white-tipped tail so hard that her entire body begins to sway in time with the motion.

Introductions

'The TownCrier, Newsroom'
Numerous desks in various states of disarray are scattered around the room, covered in stacks of books and papers, the odd bottle of ink perched precariously atop the piles. Scraps of parchment are clipped to strategically placed contraptions hanging from beams. A large blackboard is mounted on the west wall between an office and the conference room. Open wood-framed cubbyholes line the south wall beneath glass-fronted news clippings, some empty, some bursting at the seams with unopened wax-sealed scrolls. You also see an eager intern, a glaes-paned door with a 'Staff Only' sign, an iron staircase spiraling upwards through a small opening and a well-used dark desk.

I arrived at the TownCrier building in the lobby, familiar with the place since I've been there a few times. Thinking they would be waiting in the  lobby, I waited, only to ponder if I was late, or they were.  Impatience got the best of me, as I did not want to live up to the moniker of being tardy to the party, at least not in this professional setting.  Instead, I traveled to the Newsroom. Like the consummate professional, Miss Luxelle was waiting for me. She beamed happily at me.  In truth, I think she beams happily at everyone. I do not imagine a scenario where I have seen her angry at....anyone.

Luxelle: We are early!

That was a relief.

Yardie (nervously): I was...err....actually standing in the lobby.

Luxelle chuckles and nods. I think there is food in there. She ponders.

Yardie: Are we having any others show up today?

Luxelle: I am hoping. She gulps I tried to make it not sound like work and all. But it looks like just you and I.

Fireflies descend in a cloud, their pulsating lights and fluttering movements creating a brief hypnotic pattern in the air. As if by some unseen signal, they scatter back into the environs, revealing Leafiara in their absence. She observes her surroundings with a keen eye.

She always had a way of making an entrance.  When I think of the Landing, I think of Leafiara Autumnwind, the former Mayor, Rook, Councilor, Chaos Embracer, Dancing Cleric, and Frontierswoman. At first, I opposed many of her politics and was often one to share my feelings on the matter. Despite  those differences, we could always discuss matters despite disagreements and appreciate the honest approach. It was during the Barony and Elidal that we  gained more common ground. It moved me to see the pulse of the Landing, which was so torn by the sudden change. Conversations led to a bet and led to  more discussions. I would define Leafiara as the heart of the Landing, with Pukk being the soul and Gutstorm being the...er...inebriated brain. We  exchanged hugs. I was glad to see her here.

Leafiara: Hiyas!

Luxelle: Miss Leafi, Thank you ever so much for coming!

Leafiara hooted at me. It was her trademark, a token from her connections to Willow Hall.  

Leafiara: "Wouldn't miss it if I could help it!"

Yardie: Glad you're here. I'm a little...nervous, and I don't know why.

Leafiara gazed in amusement at me.  Her gaze told a tale I perhaps did not know about myself.

Luxelle: Miss Leafiara has been here with us ... a really long time.

I grinned at Luxelle.  Again.  Not surprising.

Leafiara adopts an agreeable expression.

Luxelle: She was one of those who voted YES - when I asked if we should become an official organization.

Leafiara: Ahh, now that really does seem so long ago...

Luxelle nods at Leafiara.

Yardie: Any estimation as to how long?

Luxelle: The Meeting Hall papers were in 5120. We were founded with Miss Newsby and all in 5116. The building was 5121? I might be off by a year for the MHO things. Luxelle sighs.

Leafiara: If I remember, the voting was unanimous.

I grinned at Leafiara.  Sometimes, forming an organization took time and also took a consensus.  It was nice to hear about the unanimous agreement..

Luxelle: I tried so hard to drag my feet on that.

Leafiara: At very least, I don't recall any reasons anyone could come up with not to do it.

Luxelle: But they all promised me they would help with the paperwork and requirements. Luxelle nods.

Leafiara (amusedly to Luxelle): That's true, it was more the rest of us pushing you to go for it. She chuckles.

Luxelle nods at Leafiara.

The Outcry for the TownCrier

Yardie: It's quite peculiar, because where there are not reasons why not to do it, it does pose the question of...well....why? Why form the TownCrier?

Leafiara: The TownCrier already had the recognition--it was just a matter of making it official.

Luxelle: Oh, originally, Miss Newsby and I pulled together to cook it all up because ... I was irritated that the information was not easy to find. And I was forever missing things. I figured if I was missing news and events, other people were, too. Luxelle nods. Irritation, the mother of invention.

I chuckled.  On many occasions, circumstances created an opportunity for some innovation.  It seemed like years ago when a lunch-hungry ferryman concerned with his shifts served as the only means to the East.  Now, there are ships, fixed roads, and bridges, travelers on mounts, and swift means of transport.  I imagine it may have been the same for the news.  Slow travel and little avenues of information probably made for a clueless, well, more than clueless Elanthia.  On that, Miss Luxelle was more than correct.

Leafiara snickers.

Yardie: So I imagine, prior to the TownCrier, everything was through word of mouth?

Luxelle: I suppose. There were parchments left on Moot Hall and trees which ... were not easy to find for many people.

Leafiara: So... yes, more or less. She chuckles.

Luxelle: There had been no newspaper in the lands for many, many years.

Leafiara adopts an agreeable expression.

Luxelle: This building was full of cobwebs before we moved in.

Yardie: Was there anything prior to the TownCrier?

Luxelle nods. Oh! Come and see!

Leafiara: Tours!

Luxelle clasps Leafiara's hand tenderly.

Luxelle: I had to get special permission, permits, exclusionary waivers and oh, many called in favors to add this gallery to the building.

Yardie: I imagine it was a daunting task. How was support for this idea?

Luxelle: Over the years I have purchased, been given copies, and found all I could about the histories of the publications. The idea of the gallery, or the TownCrier News itself?

Yardie: The News itself.

Luxelle: I spent 2 weeks getting it ready from a table in the Moonglae Inn. We lived in Ta'Illistim at the time.

Leafiara tilts her head toward Luxelle, examining her intently as the tip of one ear twitches briefly.

Yardie: The Shining City. I was not expecting origins for the Crier over there.

I really wasn't, though the logic behind it seemed sound. The East, particularly those in Ta'Illistim, were nothing if not scholars and literary aficionados. Any form of documentation or literary work probably set them in a stir in the same way violence and chaos stirred the Frontier folk or how snow and Coven talk motivated Icemule. To see it in the Landing proved most curious.

Luxelle: And then I spent half a week gathering opinions of people that I respected. And while many people thought it was a great idea, there was some significant pushback from surprising corners. Enough to give me pause. She gulps.

Leafiara looks thoughtfully at Luxelle.

Luxelle: But Miss Newsby insisted it was a great idea.

Leafiara (offhandedly to Yardie): Oh, this'll be a good interview. I'm learning things I didn't know either.

Yardie (to Leafiara): Well, that's why I'm here. To share with the masses."

Leafiara grinned at me, and I felt a bit at ease in knowing that this project of Faction Attraction served a purpose. For far too long, many of us have roamed and lived amongst communities and individuals without ever knowing, understanding, or even inquiring about their stories. To learn something new and share it with the masses slowly became a great joy and fulfillment that I hope swayed others.

Yardie: Who had issues with the Crier? And if you can't discuss who....I guess, I'm more curious about why.

Luxelle: A few years ago, completely unbidden, one of my rolemodels and heroes came to me and acknowledged that while they though the TownCrier was not a good idea when I spoke about it originally, that they were so wrong, and thanked us for all our hard work.

Leafiara: Can't foresee every outcome perfectly.

Yardie: I'm glad. It is always appreciated when there are pleasant surprises.

Luxelle: I worked at bringing it to ESP, but we really could not figure out how to do that until a few years ago when Chronomages or Magisters or SOMEONE made ESP easier to use. Who did that? It is tangled with Chronomages in my head. Luxelle ponders. We might as well credit them with something kind. She winks.

Leafiara starts chortling.

Sorting Through The Bias...or Bee-Ess

TownCrier appears to be the innovator, or at least, the gold standard of reliable news and information.  However, it is far from the only source of information provided, be it on parchment or through thought.  With more outlets of information coming from different parts of the world, I wanted to know what makes TownCrier different from the rest.

Yardie: I imagine through thoughts...would be difficult. I know many Aelotoi who do not like their thoughts intruded. But let's dive into that idea. As of late, there is a fear of bias. There are different forms of news throughout Elanthia: The Free North News and the Peacock Gazette as examples. What makes the TownCrier different from those?

Luxelle: We set up rules about working as a professional news organization that have served us well. I think that helped us achieve successes.

Yardie: Any particular rules that you are willing to share?

Luxelle: Aside from that Chaston problem, I like to think we are not biased. Well, er, maybe I lean a little into anti-Empire sentiments from time to time, too. Luxelle shifts her weight.

The comment on bias would depend on who you talk to.  If you roamed the streets and spoke to townsfolk, the anti-Empire sentiment would be the popular stance.  For those who live across the grasslands and into Solhaven, there would be talk of a sound protector and ally with decades of aid to the Frontier Town.  Still, others would show indifference, and others would have biases due to a tragic history.  In short, while the Landing leans anti-Empire, not one sentiment is set.  It truly is a town with diverse minds, so a diverse periodical fits the bill.

Leafiara chuckles.

Luxelle: I think the TownCrier is different in that it is more globally centered, and keeps people informed about the larger events and stories going on.

Yardie: Some would say that's a rather sturdy wall to uhh...lean on. Umm, why do you think.....You grin at Luxelle. You're reading my mind, Miss Luxie.

She really was.  It seemed she jumped ahead on many questions I hoped to ask before I got the chance to do so.

Luxelle: What an awesome mind you must have! Luxelle raises her voice in merry laughter.

Leafiara gazes in amusement at her surroundings.

Yardie: I'm starting to think your reliability for information and accuracy is rather...uncanny.

Luxelle: We have a wonderful core team of Newsies - that is what I call them. Covering specific things, or general ones. Miss Leafi keeps us informed about Landing events. And tries to keep me on the straight an narrow. Which is no small thing. Luxelle shifts her weight.

Leafiara: There's a great deal of behind the scenes work.

Yardie (to Leafiara): Vetting, I can imagine.

Leafiara (adding): And I also try to keep appraised of new breakthroughs in magical studies, combat techniques, and the like! Apprised, I mean.

Luxelle: Oh, yes, see, straight and narrow. What do I know about being a cleric? Luxelle flails her arms about.

Yardie: So its safe to say, there are..uh.."newsies" everywhere, yes?

Leafiara: Usually, I'm one of the first to tell Miss Luxie if some new genius maneuver or spell has been created and is spreading through the lands. Leafiara stretches her arms out in front of her, attempting to loosen the tension in her neck and shoulders.

I've seen Leafiara fight.  It's easy to get lost in her joy and grins and the cherry-vanilla hues that show mirth and warmth.  The fact was, in combat, she was as ferocious as they come...and with a wealth of knowledge on matters as well.

Luxelle chuckles and nods at Leafiara. "And then she has to explain it to me in nice bite-sized words."

Leafiara looks at Luxelle and breaks into a cheeky grin.

Yardie: So, it's safe to say that each member has a specialty of interest.

Leafiara (musing): Maybe not by intention, necessarily, but it does work out that way in practice.

Leafiara's Delicate Balance

It's hard to be impartial as an individual.  Convictions and culture create controversy when these ideals are in opposition with the events of the outside world.  I mentioned the difficulties of impartiality involving elements like the Empire or the Elven Nations.  For someone like Leafiara, who has held office as Mayor of the Landing, investment in the safety and security of her town poses difficulties of being objective, in my humble opinion.  As a result, I asked Leafiara directly about those circumstances.

Yardie (to Leafiara): I want to ask you this question, considering your position as a former Mayor.

Luxelle: Oh, I like that rumor, Mister Yardie. Everywhere. This is not to say we are fully staffed. We rea always looking for people to help in small niches, behind the scenes, or out in the spotlight.

Leafiara tilts her head toward you, examining you intently as the tip of one ear twitches briefly. Yesss?

Yardie: Speaking of niches, as a former Mayor, it might be difficult to deliver information from a position of power. Yet, I gather sharing is important to you, even in a way as another form of service. How does one like yourself spread the word of politics without being drawn to those sides? I'm not saying that you do. I ask the question because I imagine people may assume matters.

Leafiara: Oh, I always recused myself from those things. Leafiara chuckles. Everyone else handled reporting on campaigns and the like.

Luxelle nods.

Yardie: Did you find it difficult to rescue yourself from that position?

Leafiara: Which, to be fair, does have its downsides.

Yardie: Such as?

Leafiara: Our transcripts of debates and such are a bit lacking at times since people are used to me creating those, but during campaign seasons I would just ignore them and then they might not happen at all. No, it would be more difficult not to recuse myself. Running a campaign and reporting on it simultaneously would probably be the death of me. I guess I should say this all applies to when I was running for various offices.

Luxelle nods.

Leafiara: I did report on the race between Alendrial, Amos, and Thadston.

Yardie: But you enjoy the politics when it doesn't involve you, then? And you Miss Luxie?"

Luxelle gazes heavenward.

Leafiara. (wryly): 'Enjoy' is maybe too strong a word. Then considering her next words, she said ...feel obligated, maybe… She chuckles.

Yardie (conceding): That's fair.

Leafiara: It's the worst part of my year most years. It's better that we have elections than that we don't, but they can and do get really ugly.

Most elements of power involved ugly struggles.  Coming from New Ta'Faendryl, it was not uncommon for those vying for a position of power to debate through word and...sometimes...through subterfuge.  Those in opposition often ended up quieted or even missing.  The Landing was nothing near that level of dissension; however, passionate folks had passionate opinions.  

Luxelle: Politics seems inevitable. As they have gotten more .... political ... I feel the stress.

Leafiara: And I usually find myself wishing they'd hurry up and finish. She chuckles.

Yardie: I can imagine. I dabbled into that due to Dendum saying I should play a role as a citizen at the time. It was....difficult.

Leafiara nodded at me. You and especially Soliere made that campaign season one to remember. No idea how she does what she does. She put in the work of every candidate combined and then four times over. Leafiara chuckles.

Luxelle chuckles and nods at Leafiara.

Most folks know about my appreciation for the Soubrette, Soliere.  She is the one responsible for my dabbling into manicures and hand care.  When Dendum encouraged me to delve into the political arena, several folks encouraged me to ask questions and moderate a debate between the councilors.  It was Soliere who was my biggest supporter and the reason for the success of many events.  She also aided in those debates and steered me into gathering questions from people to ask for the debate.  Despite those days being long gone and the talk of chicanery, she always believed in me.  Leafiara was correct, and even then, I felt Soliere did so much more.

Yardie: We..er...wanted to make sure people had all the information at their disposal before they cast their vote.

Leafiara: I've found that to be an impossible task, but I understand the effort to at least try. There wouldn't be enough parchment in the Landing or anywhere else to fully review everybody's positions on everything. She grins.

I snickered.  As I stated before, the diverse mindset of the Landing made for difficulty in gathering a clear consensus, even when trends leaned in a particular direction.

Leafiara: Nor could they even necessarily articulate it all, even if we did have enough parchment. (relenting) But I know what you mean.

Yardie: It would be entertaining to see Gutstorm slur his political positions on paper.

Leafiara (adding): And even if they could articulate it all, then nobody would read it all. Gutstorm doesn't need political positions. He's already our king! Leafiara whistles tunelessly to herself.

I am not certain if the Mayor would approve.  Then again, she has not been heard from in quite some time.  Perhaps Gutstorm did usurp her position as leader of the Landing.

Luxelle starts chortling. Real power is not voted upon, it is ... taken.

Yardie: Historically, this is correct.

Leafiara (marveling): That was deep.

Luxelle: Exercised.

Miss Luxelle had a profound way with words.  A sweet, kind and wise person, in every way.

Rules and Requirements

Yardie: I want to move on to the next question. I'm enjoying this interview as the questions and answers are coming out organically through our conversation. For anyone who is interested in joining, what are the rules and requirements?

Luxelle: Mister Yardie, a willing heart to work hard for the peoples of Elanthia is number one of the list. An vibrant interest in the aspect of the News that they wish to cover is second. People can speak to me about it - but the TownCrier Team is a hard working group of people, and everyone gets a say in whether someone becomes a member or not. So, I always take a name back to the Team; it is something between vetting and clearing. She winks. As a group, we are much wiser than just what I know. I like people to create their own roles and jobs, because where one's passion is ... that is where they will succeed.

I nodded at Luxelle, understanding what she meant. I struggled with literacy but always had a lot to say, much to the chagrin of many.  The TownCrier allowed many to express what they loved and enjoyed about the world they lived in.  

Yardie: Notwithstanding, there are many who enjoy learning or the love of learning.

Luxelle: We have a very few operating rules, but at the top of that list is ... No Drama. I think it is in the middle and at the end, too. Luxelle winks.

Leafiara chuckles.

Luxelle agrees with you.

I laughed nervously.  Sometimes, strong opinions lead to drama.  Recent events illustrated this.  For some, drama wrapped around them like a warm blanket.  In my case, I found myself mummified by wraps of drama and trouble.

Events

Yardie: Events! Are there any future events to come that others may attend to learn more and see the workings of the Crier?

Luxelle: I am not sure we have had a special insider's tips workshop in some time, maybe we need to do that, after Duskruin, though. Our next big event will be the Bbee Kind Day celebration.

Yardie: Oh, it doesn't have to be any special insider tips. It can also be events that are fun and enjoyable.

I blinked at Luxelle and then nodded at her.  TownCrier provided the platform to run Bbee Kind Day, and that was months away, but to hear it ring in my ears, I admit, I was caught off guard.

Luxelle: Where everyone in the realms takes a day to help others, like Mister Bbee did so selflessly when he walked among us. You may know the guy who leads that up, it is .... She grinned in my direction. You! What is the date on that this year, Mister Yardie? (to Leafiara) We can watch him interview himself now. Luxelle beams!

Leafiara looks at Luxelle and hums.

It's no secret that I am a member of TownCrier. In fact, they permitted and encouraged Faction Attraction. Still, I did not do well with interviewing myself. However, Bbee Kind Day held a special place in my heart, and Bbee, being the reason for the holiday as well as the joy of the Landing, always fueled me to sing his praises. I played along with the self-interview.

Yardie: I'm...familiar with this person. But in truth, Bbee is the reason for the day, and you all are the reason it comes to light. It would be the 27th of Koaratos. I do not know why I picked the last Restday of Koaratos, but...it is.

Luxelle: It had to be some day.

Yardie: It was a day that called to me. The last Restday of Koaratos. What is important is the work you all do to spread that love and care for your fellow person like he did.

Bbee Kind Day is a team effort, a community event.  It is a day where petty squabbles and differences should be put aside to aid and show love to others.  No one knows the demons one faces, literally and figuratively.  To give a kind act, a warm hug, a simple gesture of appreciation went a long way.  It is what he did.  It is the legacy he left behind.  It is an insurmountable feat to be as generous as he was.  Perhaps one day, I will discuss how the day came to fruition.

Luxelle: We will start collecting donations and making plans very soon. To be prepared. And all the organizations of the lands join in with this, too. Every year, it grows. Last year, individuals, without any group backing, were dedicated to it enough to serve up ways to help people, too. It really is very exciting, and I am ever so glad you do this Mister Yardie. Mister Bbee's footsteps may have been quiet, but they are really big.

As Luxelle praised me, expounding upon my fine features and excellent characteristics, I considered her words.  They were very big footsteps.  Rather, bbig footsteps. Leafiara nodded knowingly.  She had been close to him, sharing many evenings in discussion.  I had perhaps a fraction of those evenings, but they were invaluable every single one.

Yardie: You flatter me. He made it happen. We just...spread the love. And again, you all are the reason for it. And I'm grateful for you all for that.

Leafiara turns to Luxelle and cheers!

Luxelle: Just as this gallery helps to spotlight the hard work of the editors and writers who paved the way before the TownCrier ... Bbee Kind Day helps us remember that kindness he brought to the Lands.

Tour of the Crier

The TownCrier, Gallery

A large banner is suspended from the ceiling just inside the archway, boasting an assortment of hand-drawn quills and ribbon-tied scrolls surrounding the title "Elanthian News Delivery Through The Ages." Lush carpeting quiets the octagonal room, each wall featuring a display centered upon its smoothly plastered expanse. High above, domed stained glass in jewel tones depicts a messenger bird coming to rest upon a twining grapevine. A large, round rich blue leather bench provides a welcome spot to rest.
'On the gallery walls:'

a modern display, an aged poster, an illuminated frame, a glass-covered case, a faded scroll, a timeworn remnant, an ancient parchment relic

In the Common language, the display reads:

Lady Luxelle Machtes Ashrim, Founder and Editor-in-Chief

In the Common language, the poster reads:

Rharosch Dashovath, Founding Editor and Nellida Dashovath, Editor-at-Large

In the Common language, the frame reads:

Faelynn Bin'Rua, Editor-in-Chief

In the Common language, the case reads:

Lady Gira Gavilan, Editor-in-Chief

In the Common language, the scroll reads:

Lady Gira Gavilan, Managing Editor

In the Common language, the remnant reads:

Usul Lu'Nak, Editor in Chief and Phaedra Bleu, Publisher

In the Common language, the relic reads:

Scholars still study this piece, trying to determine its origins and time period.

Yardie: Well said. Very well said. I noticed the gallery and the names. These are people that paved the way?

Luxelle nods.

A whole host of individuals influenced the formation of TownCrier.  It was not a one-person task, and seeing the roadmap that paved the way for the foundation of this organization displayed in this building moved me.

Yardie: Rather impressive to see the journey from then to now.

Luxelle nods to you.

Leafiara adopts an agreeable expression.

Yardie: Are there any places you want to show me? Is there a tour you can give of the TownCrier?"

Luxelle: We take advantage of the best of technology at hand nowadays. That printing press next door is pretty awesome. Well, this one here, I think is our proudest room. At least to me. It holds so much history. But we can always take people on tours!

The TownCrier, Lobby

The lofty open-beamed ceiling provides a glimpse of the second floor newsroom, visible just beyond a sturdy mahogany railing. Sunlight filters through twin palladian windows flanking the entry, refracting through crystalline glass panes to wash the narrow tanik floorboards. Opposite the entry doors, a polished mahogany reception counter holds an assortment of refreshments and a small handwritten card. A twining grapevine fresco follows some curved steps ascending to the open space above. You also see a large help wanted poster.

On the counter, a white-masked reddish brown puppy with high triangular ears suddenly careens into the room, landing on the floor in a heap of thick-coated fur.

On the reception counter:

Containers: a platter of blaestonberry pastries, a basket of pumpernickel bread, a dish of pale blue mints, a sturdy white porcelain teapot on a candlelit warmer, a tall insulated carafe

Forageables: some tree bark

Special: a teacup-shaped milky glass jar

Misc: a small handwritten card

I glanced at the poster.  Although my reading has improved, some of it took great concentration.  Luckily, the large letters made matters easier.. 

Crisp black letters top the notice: "HELP WANTED." Perfectly aligned beneath the header in slightly finer script, the poster continues: "The TownCrier is looking for community-minded staff to work both behind the scenes and in the limelight to help us continue to deliver and expand our coverage of Elanthian News. Please contact any of our Officers or Board members." A small footnote directs you to the Meeting Hall Organizations building on Penna St. for the plaque of Officers.

The words on the card read, Out on assignment, be back soon!" are scrawled across the card in hurried, barely legible script.

Luxelle: Just off the Lobby is a Community Room, and beyond that an auditorium, all open to the public and available for people to book for their own uses.

The TownCrier, Newsroom

Numerous desks in various states of disarray are scattered around the room, covered in stacks of books and papers, the odd bottle of ink perched precariously atop the piles. Scraps of parchment are clipped to strategically placed contraptions hanging from beams. A large blackboard is mounted on the west wall between an office and the conference room. Open wood-framed cubbyholes line the south wall beneath glass-fronted news clippings, some empty, some bursting at the seams with unopened wax-sealed scrolls. You also see an eager intern, a glaes-paned door with a 'Staff Only' sign, an iron staircase spiraling upwards through a small opening and a well-used dark desk.

Luxelle: At this level is the working heart of the building. Miss Newsby's Office...

Large letters at the top of the blackboard spell out TODAY. The board is divided into three sections with what must be news-speak terms. Some things are crossed out; some are underlined. A few are punctuated with exclamation marks. Dusty chalk remains show where names are written, erased, written over, and added next to the various line items. In the corner, someone has drawn a goofy-looking caricature of a reporter.

Luxelle: A room to hold meetings.

The name carried great weight.  Many knew of Miss Newsby, but did not know Miss Newsby.  The work ethic she displayed was admirable and even herculean.  But Miss Luxelle, a bastion of kindness and notoriety, dwarfed Miss Newsby.  Eager to learn more, I had to press about the enigmatic woman.

Yardie: Can you tell me more about Miss Newsby?

On display are overlapping story clippings. Several key headlines stand out: "Newsby Murdered, Chaston Defeated, Talador in Ruins, Lylia Wins Mayoral Race, Bardfest Live Coverage, Interviews, TownHall, Obituaries, Puppers, The Long Winter, 5000 Headlines, Realized Auction Prices, Smell the Roses, Glaoveln Victory, Mother Replaces the Late Rysus, Leafiara Elected Mayor, Raffles, Lauding The Landing, Progressive TIERS, and TownCrier Now Available On ESP." Only a small bare spot remains.

Luxelle: Oh, she is ever so talented!

I hoped to learn more, but that mystery hovered in the air.  Miss Luxelle continued, though not in a way I expected.

Leafiara grins.

Luxelle: She drinks coffee.

Yardie: I think most of the people drink coffee.

Luxelle: And she works really hard. Luxelle blinks at Yardie. Not tea?

Yardie: I drink tea. But...I'm an odd one. Most of the people I know drink coffee. I find it too bitter.

Luxelle shifts her weight.

Luxelle: I would not like to think I am odd, but where I come from, we drink tea. What do you drink, Miss Leafi? Yardie: In Ta'Illistim? Or elsewhere?" Leafiara: Water, hot chocolate, tea, occasionally juice... She grins.

Luxelle: Oh, my home village, my parents, there was always tea at home.

There were rumors surrounding Miss Luxelle's home and upbringing, and, if true, I would always feel a tinge of pain.  Although I am Faendryl, I do not always share the same opinions as my peers.

Yardie: Your home village?"

Leafiara (admiting): And I don't care for coffee either. She chuckles.

Yardie (jokingly): It's official. The three of us are...odd.

Perhaps they weren't, but I most certainly was.

Luxelle: In the break room, which is staff only, we have a very special little memento of our early days.

Leafiara gazes in amusement at her surroundings.

The TownCrier, Break Room

This cozy space provides a respite from the chaos of the newsroom, beginning with the scent of freshly brewed coffee. Cushioned mahogany bar stools surround a high-top butcher block bar table. An antique mahogany sideboard resides along the back wall, its surface covered with a generous assortment of treats. Near the west wall, a well-used leather couch sits before the warmth of an iron stove. On the stovetop, popcorn rises from a pitter-pattering copper contraption. You also see a large framed cork board.

On the board, the staff have posted quotes, doodles, and angry letters to the editor. One half sheet of paper in the corner proclaims in bold letters, Please clean up after yourself; your mother does not live here. Another clipping notes the superior airspeed velocity of TownCrier messenger birds when compared to that of the unladen, migratory swallow.

Luxelle points at a high-top bar table. Many of the Newsies carved their initials on that table.

Scuffed and dented from years of use, the table's butcher block top has nonetheless been heavily waxed in an effort to prevent further staining. An assortment of letters is scratched into the surface, along with random stick figures and caricatures. Amongst the jumble of humorous artwork, you can discern various initials beneath some of the stick figures, including L, M, A, K, Y, E, F, X, D, N, G, J, C, I, R, O, and S. Tucked into one corner, someone has neatly incised the phrase: Newsby was here.

Nearly the entire alphabet had been carved in that wall, a testament to the many writers, correspondents, and editors involved in this establishment.  Though, I will admit, the stick figure art did leave much to be desired.  I gathered there were not many from Ta'Loenthra...or was it Ta'Ardenai?

Luxelle: In a few millenia, someone will dig up the table and wonder what in the world it says.

I chuckled.  Perhaps when a new civilization dug up all of our remains, they would ask the same questions.

On the mahogany sideboard:

Containers [7]: a pitcher of fresh water, a squat insulated carafe, a dish of fresh orange wedges, a basket of cheddar popcorn, a platter of frosted cupcakes, a plate of crusty toasted bread, a tray of chocolate pastries

Luxelle: And there is always popcorn for entertainment's value here.

The vibrant reddish brown coloration of the puppy's thick double coat gives way to bright white fur along her chest and legs, but most striking of all is her white-masked face. Her expressive eyes and perpetually perked ears convey a sense of relentless impulsivity and curiosity.

Yardie: Oooh, that puppy.

Luxelle: I think the Gallery and the Table here are the most precious parts of the building's remodel.

Leafiara: Hm? The puppy's mine.

Luxelle: We have no mascots in here, except for our Intern. Who ... barely qualifies.

The TownCrier, Newsroom

Numerous desks in various states of disarray are scattered around the room, covered in stacks of books and papers, the odd bottle of ink perched precariously atop the piles. Scraps of parchment are clipped to strategically placed contraptions hanging from beams. A large blackboard is mounted on the west wall between an office and the conference room. Open wood-framed cubbyholes line the south wall beneath glass-fronted news clippings, some empty, some bursting at the seams with unopened wax-sealed scrolls. You also see an eager intern, a glaes-paned door with a 'Staff Only' sign, an iron staircase spiraling upwards through a small opening and a well-used dark desk.

I glanced at an eager intern.  A bit...awkward, and definitely on the silent side.  I did not understand why.  Miss Luxelle did not bite.  I most certainly did not either.  Was he...afraid of Leafiara?

Earnst gives Luxelle a strange look.

Yardie (to the intern): You have a name?

Luxelle nods. This is Mister Earnst, who is working his way up in the Team.

I waved to Earnst.  His disposition had been rather stoic, though I imagine the busy days and nights sifting through information and having it ready for the next news cycle.  I imagine he spoke so much that he often lost his voice.

Luxelle: He usually is running errands for Miss Newsby.

There's a quill stuck behind his right ear and a notebook tucked beneath his left arm. He is holding a cup of coffee in one hand and a cup of tea in the other.

Leafiara gives an approval gesture with her hand.

Luxelle (to the intern): Good job today! Thank you.

I grinned at Luxelle.  Such an infectious attitude about the world around her.  I felt Earnst could er... earnestly confide in Miss Luxelle.

Luxelle: And up on the roof, which is also open to the public, we have an incredible view of the city...clear to the bay.

The TownCrier, Rooftop Garden

Softly lit by a garland of pole-mounted lanterns, the rooftop is furnished with comfortable bench seating encircling a central copper-clad firepit. A small enclosure protects the steps leading back into the building, a well-worn dart board mounted on its outer wall. Weathered grey tanik box planters, bursting with fragrant flora, surround the space. Messenger birds swoop in to rest on a tall perch, observing the area only momentarily before taking flight once more. You also see a basket of wooden sticks.

Luxelle: This is my favorite resting place. Even if I do not play darts.

I could see why.  With the sky at one's fingertips, the vast background of the Landing and its various buildings, and the horizon showing those celestial bodies, I was lost in the rooftop's serenity.  Fragrant flora assaulted my wide nose, burrowing aromatic wisps into my lungs.  One stood out above the rest, and my keen nose pointed me in the right direction.  After finding just the right blush-hued moonflowers, I brought it to my nose and deeply inhaled its redolence as my thoughts shifted to nostalgia.

Yardie (sheepishly): I like moonflowers. And it's lovely here, and also gives you a view of the Landing when....it's intact and there's no fires burning.

Luxelle: Miss Elysia was our main interior designer when we were allowed to move into the Building. She did an incredible job, right?

Yardie: It's a great and lovely building.

Luxelle: But you can immediately see where anything is ... burning from up here. Take a moonflower home! The flowers are hardy. Luxelle nods.

Leafiara plucks a cluster of blush-hued moonflowers, and holding it to her nose, she inhales deeply.

Yardie: I plan on doing such. Thank you.

Luxelle: The evening primrose is my favorite.

Closing and Final Thoughts

I could have stayed to admire the flowers. Nature does not resonate as easily as it does with many of those who hear her call, but I appreciate many of the different flora occasionally. Moonflowers...have a special connection with me.  Although I could have stayed the entire time, I did not wish to keep Miss Luxelle or Leafiara, so I began to wrap things up.

Yardie: They're lovely flowers. I think we've covered the gist of our meeting today. And I think we're reaching the end of it. But I wanted to know if you two had any closing remarks of final comments you wanted to mention regarding the TownCrier for me to share.

Luxelle: I am ever so proud of the members of the TownCrier team. They work so hard to bring news to everyone in Elanthia. It is an honor to witness what the group has accomplished. We are good friends, and I am their number one fan.

Yardie: That's....adorable.

Leafiara turns to Luxelle and cheers!

Yardie: And you, Miss Luxie?"

Luxelle: For anyone out there with an itch about getting involved in a truly selfless project that betters the very world we live in, I encourage you to talk to me.

Yardie: Thank you for that. I almost forgot who someone should talk to regarding interest.

Leafiara: Funny thing, I actually got recommended by somebody else. But I'm glad I took the recommendation!

Yardie: Oh?

Luxelle: We are too, Miss Leafi!

Leafiara: Irar, a name perhaps not very widely known these days...

Luxelle: I do miss him.

Leafiara: He thought I would be a good fit, so I spoke with Miss Luxie. Mostly having no idea what I was in for. Leafiara snickers.

Luxelle nods at Leafiara. Nobody ever knows what they are in for! Luxelle winks.

Leafiara agrees with Luxelle. True of many things, not just the TownCrier, but yes!

Luxelle agrees with Leafiara. "Is there something we have forgotten, Mister Yardie? I am not usually on this end of an interview!"

Yardie: Well, I think that concludes this visit. I thank you both so much for your time and your hospitality. I'll try to have this published soon. No, I think we have covered everything. Hopefully, I did well enough. It's not often where people beat me to the punch with the questions.

Luxelle: Thank you ever so much for including us in your survey of the organizations, Mister Yardie. Luxelle nods. Luxelle starts chortling.

Leafiara: You did good work for sure!

Luxelle: I think that was perception only, Mister Yardie; I was just trying to finish my thought ... before I forgot it! Luxelle grins at Yardie and praises him, expounding upon his fine features and excellent characteristics.

Yardie: Well, it was more than effective.

Luxelle praises Leafiara, expounding upon her fine features and excellent characteristics.

I blushed.  Long ago, I had been chastised for my illiteracy. Now, I have found one of the many callings into something greater, something nobler.  It is nice to have someone believe in the power of communication and entrust me to carry it out this way.

Luxelle: Thank you, both of you. She beams! Luxelle hugs Leafiara, who wraps her in a warm embrace. Luxelle hugs you, and you detect the faint scent of sea moss and crystalline salt, with currents of jasmine, night phlox, and valerian around her. Luxelle nods.

Leafiara hugs Luxelle, who wraps her in a warm embrace. Thanks for coming out and holding this today. She grins.

Yardie: Not a problem. I hugged Luxelle, and she wrapped me in a warm embrace in return.

Leafiara (to Luxelle): And you, well... you already know, but thank you for all you do all the time!

As with a good company, we extended our goodbyes.  It was their time to go, as it was mine, but the building and the foundation erected from the work and the energy made the News Room feel like a hearth. 

Yardie: Thank you all very much. I'll be heading out. I'll see you soon!"

Leafiara: Take care! Leafiara raises an open palm to her mouth, purses her lips, and blows a gentle kiss into the air.

Luxelle: See everyone soon!

You wave.

---

They say genuine news is expensive and that false news is cheap.  If this is true, then the TownCrier is a gold mine of correspondence, different from the vast libraries throughout Elanthia, but just as valuable in its rite.  Where knowledge from tomes and scrolls can provide the key to unlocking one's potential, the Crier is often the key to the world, unlocking the past, present, and future.  It is a calling, a way of life not fit for those who wish to walk between the raindrops of various unverifiable sources.  If you are not afraid to stand in the rain, or better yet, provide an umbrella of facts to those who haplessly stand in the tempest of misinformation, then draw your attention to the authenticity and reliability of the TownCrier!