Observations Of A Pixie....
Headline News
Legend of Valencia as told by Tesan to Azara.
I had the opportunity to speak with one of the Imperial Emissaries to Valencia, Tesan, who is also a Valencian native. She was gracious enough to tell me the legend of her clan's beginnings, which also are the very beginnings of Valencia itself. It's too bad that those reading this article were not able to see how animated she became when speaking of the land, the people, and the valley that has been all that she'd known before the acquisition of Valencia to the Belariath Empire. Her voice, thick with her Valencian accent, made each word lyrical, flowing smoothly, almost musical, her dark eyes alight with the love of her home. I hope that you enjoy. "The Silverclouds are a clan where the females are the leaders. They are the counselors, the advisers, the decision makers. Though the men are held in very high esteem, and never are they treated with anything less than absolute respect, they are the keepers of the homes, the workers of the land, the story tellers and guardians of the children. For a barbarian clan, the Silverclouds are a civilized peoples, with little experience in warfare. This is why they were easily captured for enslavement. Those that resisted were killed immediately, or tortured in front of their clan members, as a deterrent for any kind of rebellion. And so the Silverclouds were taken from their home, and enslaved. And their slavers were the Moriel. Those dark elves with even darker hearts, skilled at malicious manipulation, dirty warfare, cruel torments, and brutal tortures. Over the centuries that the Silverclouds were enslaved, their silent hatred grew until it seemed that with each generation born of the barbarian clan, their offspring inherited the seed of vengeance. It eventually came to pass, as it does with many a Moriel city, that they would break out in a great war amongst themselves. It is during one of these events that the Silverclouds managed to orchestrate their escape.
As they fled the Netherworld, they discovered that there were other races in different parts of the city who were making their escape as well. Realizing the need for coming together, the varied races became a single entity with the sole purpose of seeking freedom from a common enemy. After many weeks of travel, they happened to have made camp at the foot of a very sheer mountain range that loomed over them. Though they had agreed to search, together, for a land where they could be free, during this exodus, it was becoming apparent the many differences that had been overlooked in their desperate flight from the Moriel. Small disagreements turned into skirmishes, and soon tension was thick between all. A fight had broken out within the band of escaped slaves, and in the excitement, a child had fled and become lost. Once more, the former slaves put aside their pettiness and came together to search for an innocent. It was during this endeavor that the Dark Walk was found.
The Dark Walk, as it was named, is a winding cave that is absent of all light after stepping a few feet into it. As it begins to turn, and twist, deeply into the mountain, it seemed strange that a constant, harsh, breeze constantly blew through it, making odd wailing, and whining sounds, and making it almost impossible to keep a torch lit. After was felt like hours, a dim glow began to seep into the tunnel, growing brighter after each turn was made and then, almost suddenly, you were stepping out of, what was discovered to be, a tunnel. And before the bemused group, was a valley that was entirely protected by the surrounding mountains. Nestled in the sheer arms of its cliffs, and blanketed only by the sky. Through the middle of the valley runs a river, appearing and disappearing within the lush greenery. Another night was spent together, all races speaking calmly to decide where each race would go, what part of the valley they would claim with the promise that they would not interfere with one another. Embracing this gift from the Gods, the band of slaves entered the valley and declared it home. One last decision was made as a group, the naming of their new home: Valencia. Based on the word Vale which, for one race, is pronounced (v?l) and means: A valley, often coursed by a stream; and, for another race, is pronounced (v?īl?), and means: farewell. Both meanings suited all, and seemed inspired by fate. Thus, the races bid their farewell to one another, then went into the valley to begin their lives anew.
It would be 50 years before anyone would discover the valley. Again, a group of peoples had come to seek a new life, this time away from warfare rather than slavery. And though there was suspicion, and even some hostility, toward the newcomers, when it was plain to see that they meant no harm, and only sought a kind of freedom as the original races had, they were welcomed. In fact, they realized that it was fortuitous that these war-like people came to the valley, for they would help to protect this hidden world that all had come to depend on. They could teach those that already lived there, how to fight. And just as the original settlers had done, once this was achieved, the newcomers laid claim to their own part of the valley and built their keeps. With all the races working together, by way of leaving each other alone, but with the common goal of keeping Valencia hidden, the valley remained peaceful."
I went on to conduct a more personal interview with the Valencian Warrioress, Imperial Emissary to the Empire, but I will save that for the second edition of the November Edition.
~A~
(*NOTE* This is the story that is written on the website under the Valencia heading "Clan Silvercloud." )
Exploring Valencia
By: Allister Shrike
And here I am on my way to Valencia; being a citizen of the area I felt I would give you the grand tour. First you must ask yourself "What is it in Valencia that would interest me?" Being one of the largest crafts and trades territories this side of the land, there are many trades you can study, as well as enjoy the quality items made by the masters of each trade. Also past these areas are the lush landscapes that lead to the barbarian territories. From there you can take a more historical trip outward and learn of the mysterious clans that frequent the Valencian outlands. But enough about that let me begin the tour.
There are two ways to get to this place, one is the portal that erected from the forest area the other also going through the same forest path though it takes about 3 days or so leads you on a more epic trek so to speak. This information can be found at the local town information center. The centerpiece of this issue of the paper being the Valencian territory I would have to say excited me. So which did I choose you ask to start now that I have explained a little about the territory and the ways to get there? The 3 day trek of course, so I mounted my horse and started on a grand adventure. I would advise you to pack a meal or two as the outposts are few and far between. Not too far from the trail starts the pathway through the two mountain peaks known as the Fire peaks and Dragon's Spine. At night it can be a bit rough so I would save this starting section for the day. This will be roughly your longest leg of the trip. After that comes your first landmark...the Silver stream, it is a very beautiful stream that sits high above Nanthalion. Most come here just to camp and stay a few days....aaand some come to enjoy its peace and quiet for more private interludes. You can get a boat for not even a few copper and ride it to whats called The Dark Walk, the long cavern that links the two territories together.
And you ask yourself "will there be any monsters in here? brigands???" noooo nothing of the sort actually the dark walk is a very invigorating travel, here you will find many great rock formations, even see some rare cave dwelling walks of animal, if that isn't worth it alone you will also note that it too is a favorite traveling place amongst the more brave trekkers of each territory. Once out of the dark walk welcome yourself to Valencia!! The main goddess of the lands is the nature goddess Gaea, and it shows as you see the beautiful rolling hills and lush flora that accent its natural beauty. And before you visit the city or town depending on how far and how civilized you are I assure you...it will not disappoint you. The barbaric tribes are all very friendly for the most part and are now accustomed to visitors, and with it many beautiful and rare trinkets can be purchased or even traded for, as some still rely heavily on the barter system. These tribal areas are all over and I cannot map them all for you but leading to the city you are guaranteed to meet at least 4 or 5. The main being the sisterhood of silvercloud, these ladies traverse the thick forests of valencia and the panthers now these ladies are some tough combatants but also very honorable.
I should not have to tell you to conduct yourself in a polite manner though they are friendly please do not take such civil manners as weakness. But enough of that let us speak of the city. For now the city areas are in its early stages of construction. I cannot say just what is up and what isn't but there are a few shops that this reporter hopes will stay in the hands of its people, a nation of artisans and craftsmen is nothing without the ability to do their craft. I will surely get on a report once construction is done. But as it stands that is a tour guide though brief of your list of great places to go as you head to Valencia.
Mirrim Ravenstar at your service!
By: ChastityHow do you travel between the two cities? Is it a difficult path to take, and how long is your journey? "Generally, I go by horseback unless I am in a hurry and am forced to use the portal. The journey takes roughly two days, including the time taken for a few hours sleep. Less, if you are in a hurry and push on through the night."
When you were in Nanthalion, did you ever think you'd one day be the main person in another city? It has to be an astounding accomplishment. She smiles at the question. "I have lived my entire life knowing that this moment would come eventually. Astounding accomplishment? Nay, the astounding accomplishment is that I lived to see it happen." Attempts to discover what she meant by that are rebuffed with decreasing amounts of politeness.
How often does the Slave Mistress come and check things out? "She hasn't as of yet nor is there any need for her to do so. She has enough to do without interfering with me."
Are there many slave registrations there? "None as of yet which surprises me considering the number of barbarians and Torians running about. In fact, there has been an edict issued that the first ten people to collar a Valencian pays half the usual registration fee but still there has been a lack of interest."
What would we at the Chronicle be able to do to promote business for you? "Urge people to relocate to Valencia."
Will there be auctions? If so, when? "Yes, there will. The first one is scheduled for the early part of December. I am in the process of having some of the Nanthalion slavers come to Valencia to round up some of the natives to sell." If you could have any customer walk through that door, whom would it be and why? Amused laughter at the question. "If I could have anyone walk through that door at this moment, it would be Infernis wearing a collar. Anyone's collar."
BREAKING NEWS!
NEWS FLASH!
"One of Stormwinds girls was brutally assualted. The attackers remain unknown, the only evidence was the stuffing of the poor girls orfices with black flowers of some kind. Also in other news, the Lady India was killed in a altercation with the Mage Infernis.."
Advertisements!
To the Scum Sucking Bastard who stole my Ring. Bring it back, and all this can come to an end. Be clever, for once, you disgusting pig. If not..well then you leave me no choice but to arrange to find it myself.
Coloring contest
PRIZE UPDATE. Win anythign from 25 mhl too 500 mhl. ((http://belariath.com/index.php?option=com_simpleboard&Itemid=42&func=view&catid=7&id=25135#25135))
Paladin General Homunculis
Is issuing a call to arms for the chirot of nathalion. Sheara's honor demands vengeance...give me four brave souls if there are any among you.
Attention ALL Valencian Citizens!
There has been a mithril longsword donated to the Chronicle by, Adrienna. We wish to announce the opportunity for ye new patrons of the land to win this beautifully crafted sword! The raffle will begin as soon as the edition of the Chronicle is released, each ticket will be purchased for 5 mhls. Ye may purchase any amount of tickets as ye wish, but there will be only ONE winner. The drawing will commence Sunday evening (November 12) at approximately 8 pm (est time). Ye do nae need to be present to win. But the raffle will be held in Nanthalion's Town section at the Chronicle's office.
((Rules: it was requested that the player is level 3 and below; You will give me 5 mhl per ticket, and upon that time I will issue a number. Dice will be used to determine the winner so it is fair. The purchase of your raffle tickets will be done in the OOC room, to make things less complicated.))
A letter from the Editor...
Dear Patrons of Nanthalion & also citizens of Valencia...It is with great pleasure I offer ye yet another edition of the Chronicle, but ye might be wondering why the change. We felt it was important to give each patron a voice and a reason for picking up the latest edition of the paper. It is with gratitude I introduce my current staff. They are a wonderful, hard working, and devoted group of wayward souls. Without their help, the Chronicle was in great threat of being unpublished. So please show them the same respect and encouragement as ye have shown me.
There are new pages included within each scroll. Pay close attention to the Assistant Editor's page, where ye yeself will be able to write a letter to him voicing your concerns, comments, and feedback about the paper. I also would like to make special mention of a new staff member. Our own head reporter, kiarana{StWi}. She has gone chasing many dangerous and interesting news articles to bring to ye.
Although the paper might look a bit different, or the scroll a bit thicker, one thing has yet to remain the same. ~Our quality~ We gladly provide this service for ye, my reading audience. Thank you for picking up the latest edition of the Nanthalion Chronicle and with your patronage the orphans will have a bit more gruel in their bowls.
Your devoted Editor,
Chastity D. DeKartan
1. What are your thoughts on the way the Empire is being run?
It is a worthy thing to accept conquered people as your own, and not to further crush them.
2. What are your thoughts on the war with Valencia?
It has changed the way the world is moving, and touched many people. Some for better, some not.
3. How do you feel about slavery?
All have their roles to fill. Emperors, warlords, storytellers and slaves. There is no shame in serving well.
4. What do you think of the paper?
It is hard to say. Many of the words, I do not understand.
5. If not a local, where do you come from and what brought you to settle here?
I was born far to the south. It is not the way of the Great Earth Bear to 'settle.' I only seek to see more things to tell of.
7. Do you think the stores in town are properly staffed with helpful employees?
Much of what I need, I find outside of town, but when I must buy them, I do not have much trouble.
8. What is the best thing about the Empire?
The talk of the emperor sounds like a man of restraint, if not honor.
9. What is the worst thing about the Empire?
Where there is conquest, there are the conquered.
10. How do you feel about the service and entertainment in the inn?
The food is hot and the ale is strong. It is often noisy with the sound of great amusement.
11. Do you prefer magic or physical means of settling conflicts?
If the problem cannot be solved with a strong punch or a good weapon, then you should not have been in that place.
12. Who is your best friend?
The wise leader of a strong people.
13. Who is your worst enemy?
There is no one Raven-kissed craven that is more important than the others.
14. How would you describe yourself in ten words or less?
I am a teller of stories.
15: Give us a character pic!
(Letters sent to Chastity)
Belariath's Top Fifteen:
Introducing: Oak The Fisherman:
1. What are your thoughts on the way the Empire is being run?
It is a worthy thing to accept conquered people as your own, and not to further crush them.
2. What are your thoughts on the war with Valencia?
It has changed the way the world is moving, and touched many people. Some for better, some not.
3. How do you feel about slavery?
All have their roles to fill. Emperors, warlords, storytellers and slaves. There is no shame in serving well.
4. What do you think of the paper?
It is hard to say. Many of the words, I do not understand.
5. If not a local, where do you come from and what brought you to settle here?
I was born far to the south. It is not the way of the Great Earth Bear to 'settle.' I only seek to see more things to tell of.
7. Do you think the stores in town are properly staffed with helpful employees?
Much of what I need, I find outside of town, but when I must buy them, I do not have much trouble.
8. What is the best thing about the Empire?
The talk of the emperor sounds like a man of restraint, if not honor.
9. What is the worst thing about the Empire?
Where there is conquest, there are the conquered.
10. How do you feel about the service and entertainment in the inn?
The food is hot and the ale is strong. It is often noisy with the sound of great amusement.
11. Do you prefer magic or physical means of settling conflicts?
If the problem cannot be solved with a strong punch or a good weapon, then you should not have been in that place.
12. Who is your best friend?
The wise leader of a strong people.
13. Who is your worst enemy?
There is no one Raven-kissed craven that is more important than the others.
14. How would you describe yourself in ten words or less?
I am a teller of stories.
15: Give us a character pic!
