The town of Snakewater is reopening for Market Day after seasonal magnetic manastorms have ravaged the area. With an expectation of more rough weather and monster attacks, the town has put out a call for craftsfolk, mercenaries, and Delvers. Engines, roofs, and walls must be mended, but a weakened settlement can expect horrors to lurk nearby and ambush it at its most vulnerable. Moreover, over a dozen farmlanders and caravaneers have not been seen or heard of in a while. Weeds grow in unkept farms and local cantinas are quiet instead of merry.

So ruinous was the Long Fall that even the World has turned upon humanity. Not only did the survivors have to contend with disaster and fell weather, they also had to defend themselves against Geists: skull-faced entities of incarnated malice and energy. 

From wildfire and poisonous radiation springs the Flame Geist. Meanwhile, the Storm Geist manifests from lightning strikes or through “unmuzzled” radios. Brutal tragedy and dark rite births the Shadow Geist. While the origins of the Blood Geist…are best not spoken of. 

A few Vundarkin Packs prey on those humans that they encounter and hunt down. Called the Carrion Cults, they appear to be unrelated to each other beyond their ghoulish actions. No one is certain as to why they choose to pursue this behavior.

There are rumors of the Night League operating in the Libertina area. Though the vampiric sorcerers and their minions were utterly defeated decades ago, it is claimed that they have simply gone into hiding and their operatives have infiltrated the populace.

The Free Tribes exists as a defensive and economic pact between its members. However, their differences and shared histories can make it difficult to cooperate. That said, even now the Free Tribes is willing to accept new Packs, Caravans, Tribes, and Gangs into its ranks -- with some provisions and approval, of course.

A mercenary organization working with the Patient Scrivener Cartel and the Hammerlock Company has been active in Mid-Atla. Called the Freebooters, they function as middlemen and employ Freefolk to assist the locals with their problems.

There is an organization called the Technocratic League (La Liga Tecnocratica) that functions as middlemen and provides employment to Illustrados in Mid-Atla. Despite its name, it is not under the sole control of the Technocracy -- the Magistrados has assigned some forces to protect and observe it. The Iglesia and Charioteers also have much say in this group’s direction.

Fontaine-Fuentes Pharmaceuticals, of the Technocracy, has established a minor foothold in the area. They intend not only to sell medicines and medical services to the locals, but also study Mid-Atla wildlife/flora for medicinal uses.

Also,. after decades of distance and restraint, the Illustrados Senate has relaxed some of the restrictions on travel and commerce to Mid-Atla. With the exception of the Magistrados military, the other Power Groups of the Union are sending folk to the region in the name of business and learning opportunities. This rankles a few local businesses, but many folk are glad for the commercial influx after the damage of the War over Embers

After decades of distance and restraint, the Temple’s leadership has relaxed some of the restrictions on travel and commerce to Mid-Atla. The Carmine Templars seek out business opportunities. The Skull Templar seek to study the effects and Shroudlands of the Ember War. And naturally, the Talon Templars are there to protect them and their holdings.

An organization called the Avataral Hand has formed in Mid-Atla with the intention of lending protection and guidance to Templar operatives and agents in the area. They even oversee and assist the inclusion of those who want to join the Temple.

Lastly, a group of young Skull Templar researchers were found slain in the woods a few miles from Snakewater. The Templars are believed to have the survivors in custody but keeps the exact details of the incident only to higher ups.

[LOST SHEEP CANTINA, SNAKEWATER; TUESDAY - MARCH 15, 99 BTF]

Most of the Cantina’s clientele had already left when the late evening brought in the cold. Shepherd and Sheriff Hannibal waved as Professor walked out into the night air. Two of the Peace Maker Cartel shadowed the old man as his sentinels, nodding to their employer before they made their exit.

Shepherd wiped down a counter as they watched the others leave. “Guard duty at the Lost Sheep. They lucked out with the easier shift. You still got the others digging up Prophet’s house?”

“No, they finished at sundown” The Sheriff stared down at the last dregs in his tankard, frown hidden in his beard. “Found at least three dozen people, just bones and trinkets at this point. Most of what they found, we don’t recognize. Likely they’re Scavvers and Packhunters -- nomads are easier to pick off and easy to miss”

“And those they recognized?”

He didn’t take his eyes off of the tankard’s contents. “Funerals’ll be in a few days. Hafta tell their next of kin”

“Make the Peacemakers do it” Shepherd grimaced at the thought of those conversations.

“Gotta be one of us. All those taxes and tariffs gotta be for something, ain’t it?” Hannibal glanced at them sidelong “‘Less you wanna do it for the rest of the Town Council”

The Cantina’s proprietress held up their hands, palms out “I’m busy that day. Aaaall week, in fact!”

“Yeah, yeah” Hannibal grinned as he waved away their excuses.

For a time, they were fixed in place and in silence. The innkeeper wiped the same spot over and over again while the Sheriff returned his stare to the bottom of his drink.

“Gotta wonder though” Shepherd mused, breaking the pause. “Hard to believe that this Prophet and Fessor made that monster and wagoned all those folks in by themselves”

“Fessor only made the thing’s Core…which is gone now. Prophet…” Hannibal narrowed his eyes and lowered his voice to a dusty whisper. “Prophet had help”

“Who? One of the new folks who came in?” They cast their gaze across the empty room, trying to think back on everyone that had ever graced their Cantina last week.

“Can’t be. This shit’s been happening for a year, possibly more. I don’t know everything going on” He drained the flagon in one go and stood up to leave “But I aim to find out”

— Delvers, mercenaries, and Archfaction operatives defended Snakewater from the Necrolossus several times. Via the Professor’s machinations, they safely Siphoned sorcerous energies from its form until it exploded and was no more. (+15 Campus/Mercado instead of +10 Campus/Mercado)

— Maury, Just George, and Doc Tinker defended Library Lane from Geist attack during the Necrolossus’ second invasion. (+27 Campus)

— Several farmers were rescued from Geist attack by local delvers and operatives(+5 Mercado)

— The eccentric “Professor” was retrieved and put in protective custody (+5 Mercado)

— Illustrados Operatives and their allies assisted a local Apothecary in the retrieval of their wares (+5 Mercado)

— Fell entities were banished from this world by Templar operatives and their allies, halting their depredations upon the land (+5 Mercado)

— Before they could keep preying on travelers and farmers, one of the cannibalistic Carrion Cults were driven aground by the Freefolk and their allies (+5 Mercado)

— Sargento Soldado and Supervisor Antonino transcribed several records at the behest of Snakewater’s Archivist (+14 Campus)

— Apostle Moore and Peep excise an infestation of Owl-moth larva before they could do any damage to the paper records. (+10 Campus)

— Snakewater’s other residents assist in the development of the town and in its prosperity (+66 Campus, +40 Mercado)

TOTAL: +132 Campus, +80 Mercado

Freefolk, assisted by their allies, descended upon a cannibalistic Pack calling themselves the Bloodmoons. Their Pack Guide, Half-Circle, was able to elude capture but this Carrion Cult will not trouble Snakewater for at least a few months. There has been no sign of their leader, a Pack Elder named “White Eye”.

With the isolationist tendencies of most Vundarkin, much moreso the despised Carrion Cults, little and less is known about the Wildling Whispers they revere. On the other hand, it is known that these cannibals will hunt down wounded or vulnerable humans as part of their grotesque hunting and feasting rites.

Illustrados operatives and their allies retrieved the stolen supplies of a local apothecary named Tass Grog. Oddly enough, it was no human that burgled the medicines. Instead, local Parafauna were somehow coerced into attacking the Caravan that brought them, stealing the boxes away, and putting the goods in their lair. It is an understatement to say that those actions were far from typical for most Mantis-Wolf packs.

Otherworldly creatures called “Abyssalites” were excised from our Holy Reality by local Templar operatives and their allies. These entities are the least of their kind, but they are deadly enough to tear down small groups of armed Delvers.

Though their intrusion is an affront to the God-Empress, they are occasionally summoned as for academic purposes – it is believed that these conjurations were integral to the “domestication” of the Eidolonic Spore and thus the Eidolonic Stigmata. While the true purpose of this specific summoning remains a mystery, these particular abominations will no longer prey upon Humanity.

In March, adventurers and Archfaction operatives triumphed bloodily against a giant made of stolen bones and shadows. In that desperate battle, the town of Snakewater and its defenders took a great risk and chose to Siphon away the giant’s deathly energies, thereby preventing the reincarnation of this “Necro-Colossus”. The news of their hard-won victory has spread from Snakewater to the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond.

Though the Archfactions themselves are slow to respond, mercenaries and merchants are traveling en masse to the town in search of commerce and employment.

Since at least early April, strange energies have withered everything within a forest clearing, a mile or so southwest of Snakewater. The cause of this phenomenon is believed to be a Death Stone, though some believe it may be tied to the Shroudland near Snakewater. The affected area is approximately half a mile diameter, though it is by no means a perfect circle or sphere. Unlike known Death Stones or Shroudlands, ingress into this “Warped Glade” is incredibly deadly even to those with training and protective gear. With its lack of growth, most folk are content to keep an eye on it but leave it alone otherwise.

Spring arrived in faltering steps, bringing verdancy and warmth to Snakewater. As it usually is in the world beyond the fall, this season has its own dangers: parafauna and paraflora stalk the wilds in greater numbers, striking at unwary travelers or frontiersfolk. The casualties have already begun to climb, especially with the rumor of an ivy-like plant that is said to infest corpses and puppeteer these husks toward its own botanic propagation.

[FARMHOUSE NEAR ROSE HILL (SOUTH OF SNAKEWATER); MAY 15, 99 BTF]

Even without the dusking light, Overseer Astrantia could see that the dinner table was a mess. Her frown neither slowed her gait nor did it spoil the smile of Maculata, who was already seated. The blood splatters, rotting foodstuffs, and broken crockery upon the table reflected the discord that afflicted the rest of the house.

Quarterstaff in hand, she eased herself into a chair with a slight wince. The flora of her Dryadic Stigmata almost bristled at the sitting Dryad’s lack of delicacy – but he had always cared the least while she and Narciss did the real work. “You practically volunteered to find us a rendezvous since the Free Tribes were on the hunt for us. Is this the best you could manage?”

“Prickly” the other Overseer grinned at her annoyance. “Did that Cog hit you too hard with his hammer? Or perhaps, you’re just hungry.”

His vine-riddled arm reached beneath the table and tossed the dying homeowner to her feet. The exsanguinated farmer gasped for help, grabbing at her ankles, but Astrantia pushed Maculata’s leftovers away with a single toe.

“Last week was a travesty. They were halfway to the bunker before Her Majesty and the King of Fools discovered the decoys. We barely stopped them in time!”

She continued her ruminations aloud, nursing her thoughts like a grudge. “They were on their guard, too. The night before, they were asking strange questions. And they stopped us before we infested that Suit. Maybe they’re why ‘Her Majesty’ never received our dead drop. Should’ve killed them all after I was done with the Professor.”

As the farmer’s gasps gradually fell to silence, a pall fell upon the disheveled room. It was disturbed only a minute later when a third Overseer practically glided in, unperturbed by the ruin and the rot. “Don’t know about y’all, but my child and I had a grand time last week! My little one was so clever and strong! And so precious: he almost caught that sneaky man shooting us from the woods!”

“Almost doesn’t cut it.” Like the dwindling daylight outside, Astrantia’s mood did not lighten and she shuddered at her next thought. “Killing the old worm was little better than taking him. King Aetheldred will be…cross…with us.”

Maculata already cared little and less at that terrible fate. He was looking up at the ceiling and digesting the meal that came with the house, but Narciss’ ebullience did not falter for a moment.

“Well, while y’all were eatin’ and grouchin’, I actually went out and found us a new ‘gift’ for Her Majesty.” He teased them, grinning madly at their piqued curiosity. Even Maculata looked over with an eyebrow raised over his good eye.

“You’re acting like you serve the King of Fools, not the King of Flowers. Spit it out.”

“My, my, my! You’re *never* this bitter, my dear! Well, we know for. A. Fact. that the Professor (rest his soul) did not work alone, yes?”

“Ah” Maculata was keen, having ever been more the ax than the tree. “A target.”

“Fresh out of Snakewater, in fact – if ‘fresh’ could be possible from that abysmal place.” Narciss practically beamed and his Dryadic flora beamed with him.

“Maybe that’ll do it. You’re not as useless as I thought.” At last, Astrantia’s spirits began to lift – perhaps she and the other Overseers still had a chance to earn Aetheldred’s Mercy.

— Mercenaries, delvers and Archfaction operatives assisted in the defense of Snakewater from the Dawnflower Cartel and their Floral Husks. Not only did they uncover the Cartel’s leadership (the King of Flowers), they were even able to drive away the Dawnflower’s Overseers, though at some cost to lives (+15 Campus, Mercado)

— A strange glowing orb was found in the woods. Great care was taken in its retrieval, since its very touch was injurious to the unprotected. (+5 Campus, Mercado)

— Slipping through patrols, a group of Floral Husks implanted a parasitic vine upon the Cantina before locals could stop them (-5 Campus, Mercado).

— Through chemistry and cooperation, not only was the Cantina purged of its botanic parasite, but a cure was found for a similar parasite that was plaguing Snakewater (+3 Campus, Mercado)

— The Technocratic League put an end to the Mantis Wolf attacks upon local trade caravans (+5 Mercado)

— Free Tribe operatives under the direction of the Freebooters struck down a Carrion Cult before they could fully complete a desecration rite in the wilderness (+5 Mercado)

— Templars smote an outlaw impostor before he could abscond with a dangerous grimoire (+5 Campus)

— Soldado and Peep assisted in local trade negotiations to ensure a supply shipment from Bridgeboro to the east. (+6 Mercado)

— Similarly, Camshaft and Apostle Moore guarded a merchant caravan from attack while it was on its way to New Oasis to the west (+8 Mercado)

— Lucretia assisted local academics in counting and recording the harvest of the past few months. (+4 Campus)

— Doc Tinker and his acquaintance assisted in the translation of several pre-Fall texts into an understandable format. (+16 Campus)

— Several delvers were instrumental in defending local tomes from Owl-moth larva and decoding arcane symbols (+8 Campus)

— In preparation for the Snakewater Festival, Shepherd and other merchants in town arrange for food, drink, and other sundries to be brought in from around the region and beyond (+44 Mercado)

— With the influx of newcomers is also an influx of new knowledge. The Archivist and the Secretary’s subordinates ply visitors for information about the lands beyond Snakewater, seeking both mundane and arcane lores for the records. (+53 Campus)

NEW VALUES:

MARKET EXCHANGE (MERCADO): 168/300

LIBRARY LANE (CAMPUS): 238/300

Delvers and mercenaries under the employ of the Freebooters struck down a Carrion Cult, specifically the Bloodmoon Pack, as they performed a “desecration” rite upon the wilds near Snakewater. The Bloodmoons were utterly routed by the Freebooters’ allies and their rite was only partially successful.

Of this Carrion Cult, only “Sickle-wind” managed to escape -- “Half-Circle” was slain by his own hand to eke out some victory against his enemies. Where their foul magics would have created an eldritch rift, their efforts have merely birthed mere wounds that will heal in several months (or sooner, with the proper rituals).

With the Technocratic League’s help, Illustrados delvers and the 1st Shadow Scouts Guild uncovered the source of local Mantis Wolf attacks upon merchant caravans. A defrocked Sun Priest was using her knowledge of alchemy to forment the beasts into their ambushes.

Before she could create more chaos, she was confronted by the Illustrados while some of their fellows destroyed her machinery. She did not survive the encounter. Unfortunately, her other motivations and her benefactors have yet to be uncovered although her Tome of Alchemy was retrieved and it is in Illustrados’ hands.

The Blades of the Empress Guild and the Avataral Hand worked together to uncover the source of March’s Abyssalite incursion. The Blades were able to smite an Infernal Apostate (and his Psycholisk defenders), preventing him from absconding with his crimes. Oddly, the Apostate transformed himself into a Psycholisk (or something similar) at his final moments — or perhaps, he was a Psycholisk wearing a human guise.

They were also able to retrieve a stolen Grimoire -- this arcane tome was the catalyst to the maleficent summoning of otherworldly Abyssalites and the death of several Novitiates. The corpse of said summoner is still at large, having been re-animated into an unhallowed existence.

The annual Snakewater Festival blooms amidst a sweltering Summer. It celebrates surviving the recent and ancient dangers of this era beyond the Long Fall. The origins of the Festival itself is as vague as Snakewater’s own founding -- the town was nearly destroyed in the War over Embers and the passing of time has done little to unveil its enigmatic history.

Among the hearsay and gossip is the tale of an omened entity, a great serpent (or river dragon, or basilisk, depending on who is asked) that catalyzed the town’s founding or perhaps, was defeated so that the town could prosper. Others whisper of long gone Shamans and Witches that protected its founders from the worst of the Long Fall.

However, most folk care less and little about the origins of the town and the Festival -- they focus instead on the food, drink, revelry, and games to come. Indeed, the Festival’s most famous event is a contest where competitors attempt to recreate the recipe of the mysterious “Snakewater Special”. With all the newcomers to town, this year’s festivities promise to be exceptionally magnificent.

Last May, Snakewater and its inhabitants were attacked by the Dawnflower Cartel, now known as the pawns of a Night King. The townsfolk and their allies managed to stave off the monstrosities and floral infestations that Dawnflowers brought to bear.

Though some casualties were suffered, the Night Kings and their pawns were driven away, bereft of their objective: a Tinker named “Professor”. Since this terrible attack, the Dawnflower Cartel has been blacklisted across Mid-Atla, their offices raided and assets seized by the rest of the Kindly Cartels and allied operatives.

Scores of Dawnflower Associates have been arrested or slain in the swift conflict, some of them displaying the strange magics and infestations of “Aetheldred”, the King of Flowers. The core leadership of this traitor Cartel has yet to be taken alive -- rumor is spreading that the Dawnflower Director (Daletha Doolittle-Chang) was either a puppet of Aetheldred or one of her alternate identities.

A few months ago, the Warped Glade was a small section of the wilderness near Snakewater that was inundated with deadly energies. These energies have since faded away to nothingness, with only withered flora and fauna to mark its former circumference.

No one is entirely certain as to the reasons for the Warped Glade’s creation and subsequent disappearance. Most folk are willing to let the subject go, a habit of living in the current era of strangeness. Indeed, after the tragedies of the Dawnflowers’ attack, this incident seems a simple footnote in comparison.

The League of Night Kings. or simply the Night League are a dark alliance of sorcerers that have descended into ravenous and powerful forms and rule several territories as overlords. They are currently in a shadow war with all three of the Archfactions, though recent events have left invasions out of each others’ reach. Instead, the League sends agents into Free Tribe or Templar territory to foment discord or to assassinate people of importance, some claim that their reach has even extended to the Illustrados islands.

Their advances into the mysteries of sorcery and necrotheurgy are immense, especially when combined with King Faust’s unbridled use of human subjects. Thus, they not only have augmented humans at their disposal but also necrotheurgic abominations, both brutish and spectral, wrought from atrocity and sin. To add to this, they have their own technological advances and machineries, courtesy of King Celso, including geist-fueled mechanicals and eldritch core Metabionics that rival the Illustrados’ greatest accomplishments.

The old Night Kings were known for their incredible magics and abilities, each tyrant able to deal with a small army by themselves. Until recently, it was believed that all Night Kings were slain before 70 BTF -- they fell to the Templars, to the Hellhounds, and to the Kindly Cartels.

This new Night League has grown in power and influence. Many believe that this is due to the Archfactions weakening from the War over Embers. Others believe changes in leadership has allowed them to transcend the hide-bound traditions of the previous generation and advance to a new era of underground tyranny. The headquarters of each Night King is unknown -- their own magics allowing them to evade even the Oracle-Avatar’s baleful gaze.

The slain Night Kings

King Iscariot (the Hanged Man) - believed to be slain by the Hellhound Motorgangs

King Mutun Stingleaf (the Thousand Venoms) - slain by the Kindly Cartels (the Peacers, the Royals, and the Scriveners).

King Phoebus (the Midnight Sun) - slain by Saint Carmine and Saint Flame

King Tam Wolfhead (the Moonkeeper) believed to be slain by the Stonebrood Pack

King Faust Lectorus (the Glutton) - obliterated by Saint Carmine’s “Solar Rose” spell

----------------

Currently active Night Kings

King Celso (the Machinist)

King Aetheldred (the Eternal Flower)

King Auberon (the Fool)

King Ravan-Ajasha (the Raksasha)

[SEVERAL MILES SOUTH OF SNAKEWATER; JULY 9, 99 BTF]

As vassals tendered tribute to Kings, so too did the Serpent River offer its gifts to the Atlantic. In this latest offering, the tiny boat drifted away from the clangor of the Snakewater Festival. Though a chill wind blew with the sinking of the sun and rowboat rocked with every splash, its festively painted occupant did not stir.

When the vessel wandered within a stone’s throw of the western shore, it veered landward. The current commanded it south to the ocean’s vaults -- but reality became a feeble whisper to a new force. On the muddy bank, a man held his skull-tipped scepter like a fishing pole, drawing his quarry closer with every flick of the wrist.

“Ooooh boy, this one’s a five pointer!” A dramatic wrench brought the rowboat ashore with surprising violence. The vessel’s inhabitant was cast overboard, sprawled face first in muck and grit.

For a long time, the prone boatman did not stir. Even when the rasp of shoe upon muddy sand was mere inches from his ear, he spoke not. Cast by a darkening sky, a shadow fell over his form.

The man in green and black motley tapped a finger to his beard. “Why are you in this boat? They were supposed to catch you, just like we planned!”

Silence, though distant insects and birds made up for it.

“Maybe they should’ve killed you! Torn you apart like a bad steak!”

Silence again, no louder than a sun drowned and dead.

“You’re the worst at conversations. That’s a fireable offense, Giggles!”

“It’s not my fault!” the voice came from within the boatman, though his lips nor chest did not move. “They didn’t play the game right!”

“Excuses, excuses, excuses!” The motley’d man sighed paternally as he waved his scepter around and wove Power with a maestro’s flair. “I don’t even know why we’re friends anymore!”

Strength invaded the prostrate boatman. It was spine first -- growing from the middle of his back toward the tips of his appendages, like a spreading bloodstain. Limbs contorted with spasming muscle until the residing of pain and madness was complete.

Giggles giggled with his first lungful of air, then arose, more painted with mud than with white and red and blue. But as he regained his feet, Giggles paused his tittering and peered behind his motley’d savior. “Uh, Your Foolishness? Who’s that?”

“A peeper. Doing peepings.” came the nonchalant reply. Without looking, His Foolishness channeled Power and cast it behind him. There was a strangled cry that was stilled into silence.

Giggles cast his gaze about now that the apparition. “Was that Mr. bighat? How’d he find us?”

“I brought him to me, obviously. Don’t be stupid, Giggles”

“Sorry, Your Foolishness!”

“I. am. hungry! What are we having before we go back to the lab?”

Giggles cocked his head and caught the sound of conversation, barely audible amid the sounds of forest and river. Some folk were passing by, slowing down to set up camp in the remains of the day. Doubtless, someone would soon arrive to get water for boiling.

“Hmm…I think it’s Scavver for tonight, Your Foolishness”

“Ah, Good good good!” The King of Fools grinned toothily. “I was in the mood for bad steak!”

Written by Jobert A, Edited by Kat R.

-- With much in the way of assistance, the Snakewater Festival was a huge success. Food was brought about and shared by visitors. Many a game and revelry was to be had. There were only two minor disruptions: the theft of the parade float by “Basilisk cultists” and the appearance of the Night King known as Auberon -- fortunately, the latter and his clownish henchman were driven away. (Mercado +20)

-- The Basilisk Cultists have not only been stealing from locals, but the Vundarkin Pack known as the “Serpentfish” were almost implicated in as the Cultists’ helpers. In truth, the Basilisk Cultists were an unwanted off-shoot of the Serpentfish, differing not only in their penchant for violence, but also in their unshakable fervor for their worship. (Mercado +3, Campus +3)

-- The Basilisk Cultists were apprehended by townsfolk and the Peace Makers. However, it was too late -- their kindred had already escaped with their prize: the Snakewater parade float (aka “Snaken”, “Old Slitherbones”) (Mercado, Campus +3)

-- The people and visitors of Snakewater discovered that the Cultists had woven together a strange myth about their Basilisk patron, but it was vulnerable to retelling. Through story and oration, they rewrote and retold the myth in their favor, weakening the otherwise divine entity. (Mercado +3, Campus +3)

-- The Basilisk cultists somehow turned Snakewater’s parade float into a monstrous winged serpent called the Divine Basilisk or the Great Basilisk. Fortunately, these occultists’ own myths were twisted against them and the Basilisk itself was pacified, although it did not linger before flying away. (Mercado +10, Campus +10)

-- Several individuals including Bobby, Fayeth, and Malleus, donated their own efforts and resources for the good of the town and the improvement of its commercial districts. (Mercado +30)

-- Paladin Talos, with immense assistance from almost a dozen Freefolk, was able to defeat the specter of their close associate. In the undying service of a fallen Grailguard, the specter’s goal was the retrieval of her own ashes and the destruction of all in their path. (Mercado +10)

-- A week after the Snakewater Festival, the Welcome Wagon and the Steelwing Sentinels collaborated in an elemental rite called “the Ritual of Calming Waters”. This has healed the minor World Rift caused by the Bloodmoons and caused the surrounding area’s flora to prosper and grow. Great celebration is had by the locals, though there are a few mysteries brought about by both the Rift and the Ritual. (Mercado +10, Campus +10)

-- Several Illustrados were able to breach and investigate the hideout of an ex-Iglesiar alchemist. They ransacked the area for the alchemist’s notes and ensured that no more human experimentation would occur in that place (Campus +3)

-- Apostle Talia, Sargento Soldado, Vizer Antonino, Elena, and Cid were hired by Archivist Thatcher to copy local trade records and ensure their persistence (NPC shift; Campus +19)

-- The owl-moth larvae are back! Desi, Haze, and Zen ensured this particular brood was destroyed and ushered out of Library Lane (NPC shift; Campus +15)

-- Kyle Mari was hired by several Snakewater traders to guard them as they made their rounds (NPC shift; Mercado +6)

-- The Snakewater Town Council, including Shepherd and Secretary Crane, planned out and coordinated the Snakewater Festival alongside the other townsfolk. The success of the Festival meant economic prosperity and growth for the town (Mercado +104)

-- Secretary Crane and his minions ensured that all happenings were recorded, for future notations. This allowed them to discover vague mentions of a “Basilisk Shaman” that may have once lived in the locale. (Campus +68)

NEW VALUES:

MARKET EXCHANGE (MERCADO) Tier 2: 76/300 (up from Tier 1: 168/300)

LIBRARY LANE (CAMPUS) Tier 2: 75/300 (up from Tier 1: 238/300)

FRINGE FARMLANDS (FARMS) Tier 0: 10/300 (Unlocked by Ritual of Calming Waters)

Delvers and mercenaries under the employ of the Freebooters protected Ser Talos the Unrelenting and the ashes he carried. The Paladin was homeward bound with the remains of a comrade that had fallen in line with a Fellguard Necrotheurge and was raised as a monstrous shade. Fellguards are former Grailguard who have committed acts so heinous that they are kill on sight for the Wardens themselves -- in this case, Yama the Merciful delved into powerful necromancies and remains at large.

Illustrados Delvers and Operatives were able to breach and investigate one of Nunez’ labs. This lab was but one of the ex-Priest’s hideouts, where she experimented on captive townsfolk in secrecy. Though it has seen little use since her multiple deaths, there were still things of value within. The Illustrados were not only able to ransack it for clues and valuables, but they also confiscated several research materials.

The Blades of the Empress were visited by a Calvarian Judicator (Coalescent Severed Star). They were informed as to the exceptionally strange nature of the Grimoire they carried and were given immense leeway in their handling of it. They were also told that the Avataral Hand is currently under investigation -- the recent incidents have attracted enough suspicion to the point that the policing bodies of the Skull Conclave were called forth to investigate. Thus far, the Avataral Hand - from leadership to Maker - has been found pious, loyal, and free of Malifica.

This year’s Snakewater Festival has come and gone with great success and celebration! However, the festivity's wake is marred by a familiar menace: the Night Kings are believed to have a hidden facility in the area.

Yet, this mere rumor of their presence is cause enough for concern. In recent memory, Snakewater has been bloodied by their sorcerous depredations, repelled with great efforts by mercenaries, adventurers, and Operatives. However, there may be some silver in this shadow. - a way to turn the tide. Perhaps, these bloodthirsty hunters can at least be made into the hunted.

Mid-Atla has been rocked by a series of attacks by the sorcerous malefactors known as the Night Kings. In May of this year, the King of Flowers and the King of Fools orchestrated an attack on the town of Snakewater. More recently, mechanical and metabionic individuals in the service of the King of Lightning were able to escape from the Hellhounds’ Altar of Air with a technological relic of great power. Erstwhile, the King of Fiends is said to be clashing with Illustrados, Templar, and Freefolk forces in the swamps west of Port Atlantica -- he and his “Ravanic Hydras” are the cause of several merchant caravans and ships disappearing in the area (along with their precious cargo).

Word has spread that the Pack of the Blood Moon attempted a powerful ritual to open two rifts into a world beyond this one. This has drawn a few other Carrion Cults to bolster the Blood Moon’s numbers. While their efforts have been stymied, especially near Snakewater, they have gathered attention from the rest of the Free Tribes. Not only have several Vundarkin Packs (i.e. the Greenleaves and the Serpentfish) arrayed against them, but they now have enemies among certain shamanic groups such as the Owl Caravan and the Ghoststar Company.

Besides the Night Kings and the Blood Moons, an ex-Paladin named Yama the Merciful has resurfaced and the Grailguard are immensely unhappy at the news. Yama was once a Paragon among the Wardens and a hero before the Ember War, but his studies into Necrotheurgy and forbidden lores have turned him against the people he once protected.

More of the Technocracy has progressed into Mid-Atla, with some Corporations staking their influence in one territory or another. FF Pharma and Sorc-Sci have grown into the region around the Libertina and New Amsterdam ruins. Erstwhile, CEI and Goodbread have entered into a loose partnership with locales in and around Port Atlantica. Behind the Corps, the Four Winds Fleet and the Mistmarket Fleet sails in tow. This portends a time of strife, prosperity, or both for the region.

Over a dozen Warbands from the Justicar branch and the Recluse branch have been sent to assist local forces against the outlaw sorcerer called the King of Fiends. In accordance with the Senate’s wishes, these Magistrados are tasked to perform in support or defensive roles.

The Carmine Conclave, specifically Cabal Montaigne and Cabal Champlain, is working with Freefolk Operatives in pursuit of the outlaw called the King of Lightning. They are scouring the northern Stonefather mountains (far north of Snakewater) in search of their prey and have encountered light resistance from Night League forces while doing so.

Meanwhile, a Templar Judicator has exonerated the Avataral Hand in Snakewater from suspicions of Heresy and Malifica. Originally, it was believed that there was an internal factor betraying their communique, almost resulting in catastrophe. No such malefactor was discovered after a thorough investigation -- this suggests that whatever intelligence that was gathered by the enemy was collected in a different manner.

Out-of-game: This prologue’s information is available to Player Characters within Snakewater. Said Players may choose to have their Characters receive these images and feelings in a dream, especially those individuals that have spoken to Prophet or those who have benefitted from his Mass Umbral Projection ability

[A VEILED SANCTUM, SOMEWHERE NEAR SNAKEWATER ; SEPTEMBER 26, 99 BTF]

Soft moonlight and the sounds of the night told Prophet that this encampment was above ground. Yet, the shifting of trees, the wailing of birds, and the screeching of insects seemed subdued by more than distance.

More of the Fool’s Mass Obfuscation, then - or perhaps my captivity has taken too much of a toll.

That evening, his captors had not thought to muzzle him, so he commenced his preparations. Prophet worked feverishly while bound, on his knees, and with some floral horror rooted to his cranium. The pain of drawing from the Harbinger Fragment was great but in the end, his will was the greater - thus, he was able to “walk”.

Even without his flesh, Prophet carried his hurts as his shadowy Projection roamed the encampment. The Dawnflowers had turned their attention outwards in search of Peace Makers and Delvers, so his skulking was much easier amid the nightscape.

It was a night like most others whenever he was free to survey the area. However, a new detail caught his gaze: visiting soldiers, with un-Dawnflower garmentry and metal appendages. Few novelties brought as much alarm to him in these dark days. His concern was such that he risked discovering, approaching the pavilion guarded.

His Projection’s intangibility allowed for a clandestine intrusion, but the time of his rites took their toll: he only caught the last wisps of the discussion.

The stranger was not garbed as a King, but her metal prosthetics betrayed her sovereign’s identity. “...told you earlier, the engine is a mess. Too little of the schematics make sense. It would take years to make something of this because we’d have to start from scratch… if it can even be done.”

Overseer Maculata only rolled his eyes but Overseer Narcis seethed at the visitor. “Watch your tone when you talk to Her Majesty!”

King Aetheldred touched Narcis’ shoulder to calm him, glaring imperiously at the Forged. “Celso’s new Rite was won at great expense to my vassals. In exchange, we were told that your expertise with Necrotech and Necrobionics would be of great service. Did your sovereign lie, Overseer Banshou?”

“He did not,” Banshou demurred. “No, there is a way forward, but the results will not be within your expectations. But since you have gifted us with knowledge, we will gift you with something of our own. King Celso, he calls it Psychotech-”

The sound of footfalls outside his own tent drew him back to his body with a jolt. The abruptness of the Rite’s cessation was jarringly painful. He girded his consciousness, locking it into his current vessel, and opened his eyes to see two leering faces in jester’s motley.

“Back from your little walk? Time for sleepys, hat man”

“I don’t have my -”

And that’s when the black bag went over the Prophet’s head and his nocturnal wanderings came to an end.

Written by Jobert A, Edited by Kat R.

OOG: This is news from the September 2022 Event, including the town infrastructure progress of the Player Characters’ actions.

-- In an explosive mission, the Dawnflowers’ Alpha Labs were invaded by local Delvers and Operatives. Not only was this horror-creating lab burned to embers, but a Dryad lieutenant was captured, a captive Tinker was freed, and much of their research was retrieved for study. Thus, a powerful blow has been struck against the Night Kings. (All +15, Campus additional +3)

-- Under Snakewater’s direction, the Peace Maker Cartel strengthened their efforts toward securing the roads around the town. In addition to fending off the worst of the Dawnflowers, they were also able to launch a diversionary attack that drew away the Night Kings from the invasion of their Alpha Lab. (Townsfolk bonus; Campus +53, Mercado +57, Farms +47)

-- The Professor's Encabulator is returned to a safe level of operation thanks to the help of local Delvers and Operatives. A lessons learned document has been formally submitted about the dangers of sinusoidal depleneration. The Professor’s hirelings managed to return all six einhandled nangling caps to the top of the hydrocoptic marzlevanes (Campus +10, highest success).

-- Local Delvers assisted BJ in “getting back in the game”. (Mercado +3)

-- Local Delvers assisted Paige in retrieving Abyssal knowledge from an abandoned structure (Campus +5)

-- Unfortunately, Floral Husks ambled into the town and outside the Cantina to destroy local infrastructure. This happened several times in the month. (All -10).

-- Hector, Peep, and Antonino translated and archived several records from before the Ember War, including some vague notes about a Basilisk Shaman (NPC shift; Campus +14)

-- Soldado and Talia escorted traveling traders in and out of town, keeping the Dawnflowers at bay(NPC shift; Mercado +11)

-- Rev assisted in the farmlands’ latest harvest, slicing away at several “alien” weeds (NPC shift; Farms +7)

-- Hired by the Fomori and the Freebooters, Freefolk Operatives assisted in the retrieval of several Fomori shipments from an irradiated hotspot (Mercado, Farms +5)

-- The Freebooters followed the trail of Carrion Cultists but found them slain by an alien entity, leaving Xenoplasm behind. (Campus +3)

-- Templar Operatives eliminated a corpse possessed by an alien entity, the end of a long hunt. Thus ends the accursed legacy of Julius Spirited Sapphire. (Mercado, Farms +5)

-- Employed by Captain Astray of the Charioteers, Illustrados Operatives retrieved several packages from a hazardous locale. (Mercado, Farms +5)

-- Local Delvers struck out against the monstrosities guarding the Dawnflowers’ hidden lab and leaving it, clearing the area for Snakewater’s tradesfolk and farmers. Through cunning and skill, Raff found the entrance to this “Alpha Lab”. (Mercado, Farms +5)

-- A fringe farmer reported the presence of Dawnflowers in the area. The Dryads and their minions were driven from the land and the farmers were saved from their depredations. (Mercado, Farms +5)

-- Working with a town chemist, Delivers and Operatives managed to concoct incendiary formulas for use against the Alpha Lab. (Campus, Mercado +3)

NEW VALUES:

MARKET EXCHANGE (MERCADO) Tier 2: 133/300 (up from Tier 2: 76/300)

LIBRARY LANE (CAMPUS) Tier 2: 128/300 (up from Tier 2: 75/300)

FRINGE FARMLANDS (FARMS) Tier 0: 57/300 (up from Tier 0: 10/300)

The Freebooters and Freefolk followed the trail of Carrion Cultists but found them slain by an alien entity, leaving Xenoplasm behind. This is followed by a dip in the cultists’ activity in the area, caused by a retreat or from other mysterious reasons. Still, the effects of their depredations have outlasted their presence - Packhunters, Scavvers, and townsfolk aplenty have suffered from the hunger of the Bloodmoon.

The dangerous happenings in Mid-Atla and the Midwest have pushed the other Scavvers toward safer routes, but not so the Fomori Caravan. These Scavvers are known for their risk taking, willing to handle shipments deem too dangerous by most other groups. Indeed, Freefolk Operatives had to assist the Fomori in the retrieval of several shipments from an irradiated hotspot

The mystery of the Nunez the outlaw chemist continues to brew. More than one party has launched an investigation into her history. The remains of Iglesiar Firehawks were found, apparently in the midst of their own research into the topic. Nunez’ demise at the hands of the Illustrados was not her first death, it seems. If her student, Yosefina, is to be believed, Nunez has survived these dooms with great ease.

The Charioteers have bumped up their operations in Mid-Atla, sending more of their number into the region. They have easily worked around certain route blockages (such as those caused by Night King activity). One such Charioteer, Captain Astray, hired Illustrados to retrieve several packages from a hazardous zone.

In September 99 BTF, Templars ended a long hunt. With help from the Peace Makers, they tracked down and ended the accursed legacy of Julius Spirited Sapphire. The accursed corpse was set upon and destroyed. Thus far, there is no trace yet of the Infernal Apostates that set these machinations in motion.

This is not to say that the Infernals have yet to make a move. A shipment to Innsmouth was attacked near the stronghold. While the casualties were minimal, the ambushers are believed to be successful - they set aflame one of the wagons that the Templars were protecting.

In September, the vampiric Night Kings dealt a vicious blow: their "Alpha Lab" was set aflame amidst a clever distraction. But after the waxing of the tide comes its waning. Snakewater and its allies must prepare for a counterattack in November. While the Archfactions lend their aid, bureaucracy, distance, and the vampires' machinations waylay most external assistance.

A small army has been seen leaving the tunnels beneath the Libertina ruins. Amongst its roster are small and giant plant monsters, as well as Blood Geists, and their human wranglers and keepers. This force marches in the direction of Snakewater, slowed by a few skirmishing attacks by Peace Makers and their allies.

It was only a week ago that a new phenomenon was discovered in the wilderness north of Snakewater. Individuals lose their sense of direction and are turned around. Thanks to the efforts of the Blades of the Empress and several other travelers, it has been determined that the area that housed this phenomenon is actually a greatly enhanced version of the Obfuscate Sanctum ritual - it spawns approximately a mile in diameter.

Additional evidence, such as supply trails, suggests the presence of an encampment in the area. The Peace Makers have issued warnings for local travelers to avoid this vicinity - it is likely the current location of the Dawnflowers’ encampment while they await reinforcements.

While Night King activity has been ramping up as of the past few months, the conflicts with the League are coming to a close across the rest of Mid-Atla. This is likely in preparation for the end of the year, when the world’s Magnetic Mana Storms and local winter weather are at their worst.

Night League thieves and metabionic constructs were able to successfully delay their pursuers. They have since absconded with their stolen devices and relics from the Hellhound’s Altar of Air, disappearing into tunnels beneath the Stonefather Mountains.

Dealing with the other Night King appears to have fared far better. The King of Fiends’ titanic monsters have been brought down with no small effort from local Archfaction forces. While this was done before the hybrid horrors of Ravan-Ajasha consumed a local settlement, it appears that several traveling convoys in the area have disappeared.

Out of game note: The epilogue is purposefully written in an obfuscated and jargon-filled manner. Though some information is easy to understand, some meaning can be derived through contextual clues, IRL research, and the definition of certain words similar to certain fictions (e.g. SCP).

Though the contents of this “magical transmission” is not specifically known to the Player Characters, the information provided is either common knowledge around Snakewater or easily found knowledge, except for the exact nature and contents of the Oracular Scrivenings and their Prognostications.

That is to say, the Player Characters are aware of Prophet’s condition as it is mentioned below. The mentioned Folly can be found in the Templar lores (which is available to all PCs, presuming that their character is learned or adept at procuring information).

-- Start Umbral Projection --

TO: Numinous Sundered Star, Archon of the Skull Conclave

May the All-Mother’s grace be forever mantled upon thy shoulders, Hallowed One.

Though accurate and functional, the reports of our Avataral Hand brethren cannot fully encompass the scope of recent Events. Indeed, the Mid-Atlantic has seen happenings in greater capacity and unpredictability than previously predestined by Oracular Scrivening. My own investigations have noted the omens and the signs to be in keeping with what has been portended by the various writs of Prognostication, specifically regarding this age and this region.

I have sent a written report with a greater attention to detail, encrypted by this quarter’s protocols. However, I wish to touch upon certain aspects of said happenings. In particular, the fate of a certain individual known as “Prophet” is of no small significance.

Local Delvers and Archfaction Operatives, commended the Heretic into Peace Maker custody. This was no mean feat, Hallowed One—not only was he made elusive by his expertise in meta-theoretical Projection but his corpus was also rendered into a Malfeasant eldritch apparatus. It is believed that the Night Kings used this machine to make forcible use of Prophet’s talents and the “power source” in this possession.

On the matter of the power source, the 3rd Prognostication of the Oracular Scrivening was accurate to the letter: he was indeed willfully subjected to a Malificant Rite of “Atramentous Eidolonic Indoctrination” using a piece of a Harbinger.

In fact, the Harbinger piece itself remains infused into his essence—Prophet’s release and incarnation from the machine did not yield any Harbinger organs or appendages, as opposed to what usually happens with the known versions of this Rite.

I suspect that the Harbinger piece in question has either been “digested” or that it was an intangible aspect from the “donor” entity. Furthermore, I am uncertain of how this Malificant Rite has found success where the Transfigurators’ hypotheticals and parallel trials have found failure. Perhaps it is in the nature of the subject. Further conjectures on these enigmas are of great interest to me, but they transgress upon the borderscapes of Malifica. Thus, I will discontinue from communicating further rumination on the matter, barring your approval or that of a Confessor.

It is my regret that Snakewater has rejected our solicitation for his transfer into Templar custody for termination via Eldritch Crucifixion. Naturally, the Avataral Hand will respect their decision and only act through diplomatic channels henceforth (as per Avataral Dictum). Since this projection is directly within your reliquary, I feel confident in saying that the individual in question remains in Peace Maker hands. It may well be that they are not aware of the dangers of such Malifica; the Priory of Correspondence have not forgotten the “Folly of Tartarus”. Fortunately, they have taken note of our suggestions for imprisonment and have accepted some instruction in anti-incorporeal countermeasures.

There is talk of moving Prophet from his current imprisonment to a place of greater security, possibly to the Peace Maker’s home office in Bridgeboro. However, this rumor cannot be substantiated. In fact, I am not currently aware if the Heretic has been moved or not—an irritating but useful deception. It can be certain that Night League agents will continue to be on the lookout for him.

All audiences with him have been temporarily put on hold after a recent “almost breakout”. I believe that our efforts were instrumental in his continued captivity, but his captors’ persistence and the aid of the other Archfactions cannot be denied. The Illustrados and the Grailguard had offered their own sorcerous assistance in the matter, but I am unsure of their reception… although I do recognize the presence of new machinery in the area. I have even heard that the Fomori Caravan has offered to transport him to wherever is required (at a fee, of course)

Reports from Cavalier Sigmarus listed his post-incarnation/liberation behavior as irate and resentful, but Prophet has since found his center. According to Peace Maker report, Prophet is in constant meditation and interrogation efforts have borne little fruit. He even goes for days without eating or speaking, performing the former only when threatened.

Personally, I cannot help but think that he has hatched some new machination, Hallowed One. Perhaps he awaits an external rescuer or is fomenting some Ritual beyond our perception, bypassing the restraints placed upon him. Though I dare not mention the Scrivening’s contents here, the Prognostications are troubling, even in the vespertine hypotheticals of the 5th and 6th degree.

We place the God-Empress first and foremost, but we must trust that our allies have made the correct choice with the knowledge that they possess.

As always, I am in Her eternal service. Glory to Her Name.

— Mercurial Silent Stone, Gold Apostle of the Skull Conclave

Priory of Correspondence

The Goddess speaks and we listen.

-- End Umbral Projection --

Written by Jobert A, Edited by Kat R.

-- Snakewater and its allies deflected a probing attack from the Night Kings. Furthermore, they were able to discover some of their enemy’s new tricks, including the ability to Umbrally Project and the presence of the heavily armored Floral Shamblers. (All +10)

-- Alongside a Templar (Mercurial Silent Stone) and a Peace Maker, Delvers and Operations infiltrated the area around the Night King’s encampment. Though they faced some opposition and King Auberon himself, their missions were successes: xeno-tech devices were implanted at the edge of the Night King’s encampment -- these will help Snakewater’s allies invade it later that evening. (All +10)

-- While their main force was distracted, local Delvers and Archfaction Operatives launched an attack on the Night King encampment. Slicing through the opposition, including more Floral Shamblers and two of the Kings, they were able to disarm the Reaper Engine without harming its internal structure. Of instrumental assistance was Aguilar Waltz-Celso, who was rescued from the Night King’s clutches in the past few months. (All +15)

-- Weathering the threat of the Night King’s forces, Snakewater has stepped up on recovery efforts. In addition, preparations are being made for the upcoming winter season, where Magna-storms will be the worst. Fortunately, care packages were sent from the Archfactions (Townsfolk bonus; Campus +80, Farms +56, Mercado +70)

-- The Venomroot planted by King Aetheldred to destroy Snakewater’s defenses from beneath has been destroyed. Not a single one of the floral invaders survived. (All +5, <-10 to All prevented>

-- Illustrados Operatives assisted Carrow and FF Pharma in their study of a countermeasure against Nunez’ insidious alchemy and its mind-altering effects (Campus +3. Mercado +3)

-- Illustrados Operatives and their allies assisted Sargento Leo and his Magistrados relief forces. They were en route to Snakewater when they fell afoul of King Aetheldred’s poison clouds. (Campus +3, Mercado +3)

-- Templar Operatives and their allies exorcized a fell entity from a Snakewater townsperson. They were also able to retrieve the name (or pseudonym) of the perpetrator: Eldur Brand. (Campus +3, Mercado +3)

-- Free Tribe Operatives tracked down the source of the irradiated shipments, avoiding several red herrings and middlemen: Lan-Jernon aka the Pale Oak. They were able to drive him off and he left behind some useful (and hazardous) clues to his next move. (Campus +5, Mercado +5)

-- Local Delvers were hired by Snakewater and the Freebooters in surveying the nearest Warrens entrance. They managed to survive its treacherous depths and clean up efforts will have to be forthcoming when resources can be allocated to the task. (Campus +3, Mercado +3)

-- Professor put out blueprints for the plans of his special project under peer review. The feedback he received has helped his efforts immensely. (Campus +5)

-- Alchemist Calder’s conundrum was solved by a few brilliant minds. (Campus +5)

-- A confused spirit has been put to rest and its items sent back to its family. (Farm +3)

-- Hobo, Antonino, Cid, and Peep found and made copies of a strange thesis about the Outer Spheres, the domains outside our own dimension. (Campus +16)

-- Soldado and Hector assisted in the evacuation of farmers into the safety of Snakewater, allowing them to escape the Night Kings’ depredations. (Farms +7)

-- Talia, Elena, Dauntless, and Kyle Mara assist in the storage of the previous season’s harvest, in preparation for incoming Magnastorms. (Mercado +19)

-- Winter Magnastorms brutalize Snakewater with lightning and cold (All -15) <potential of 10-60 infra damage>

-- Floral husks managed to elude Snakewater’s defenders and ravage the exterior of the Black Sheep and some districts of Snakewater (All -5)

NEW VALUES:

LIBRARY LANE (CAMPUS) Tier 2: 274/300 (up from Tier 2: 128/300)

FRINGE FARMLANDS (FARMS) Tier 0: 149/300 (up from Tier 0: 57/300)

MARKET EXCHANGE (MERCADO) Tier 2: 253/300 (up from Tier 2: 133/300)

After no small amount of footwork and middlemen, Freefolk Operatives have tracked down the source of the irradiated flour: a Miraji Dustrider named Pale Oak. Possessed of strange powers over water and earth, Pale Oak has admitted to being a follower of Yama the Merciful. While the end product of their machinations is still at large, the mystery of the irradiated flour has been at least partially solved: the material was used to insulate and hide several reagents of incredible corruptive energies. Such are their emanations that the mere touch of them is bound to afflict a person with multiple poxes and plagues.

Meanwhile, the strange entity responsible for the ritual massacre of a half-dozen Carrion Cultists is still at large. Worse yet, detection magic has revealed that it has since split into three of its self. Whether these new variants are merely decoys, weaker versions, or true duplicates has yet to be determined.

The Illustrados Union was not blind to the pleas of Snakewater, sending defensive reinforcements to the town. Some of these soldiers fell afoul of the Night Kings’ biological weapons, but local Delvers and Illustrados ensured that they made it to their destination. These Magistrados have been in town assisting with recovery efforts for a while before going back to the port at Bridgeboro.

With the help of his allies, Overseer Carrow has progressed in his efforts toward a countermeasure against Nunez and her mind control chemicals. With this advancement and the investigations of the 1st Shadow Scouts Guild, the fallen Sun-Priest’s days appear to be numbered.

A Templar from the Priory of Correspondence has arrived from Yog-Mothol, to assist Snakewater and the local Templars against the Night Kings. Through his efforts and the Xenotech equipment he brought, the Night Kings’ encampment was infiltrated. He appears to still be in the area for the moment, working closely with Avataral Hand Guild.

A local townsperson reached out to the Templar Operatives and the Blade of the Empress Guild in Snakewater with a troubling request: their loved one had been possessed by an unclean entity. With the help of their Freefolk allies and God-Empress’ grace, the Templars were able to save a soul. Moreover, they discovered the mastermind behind this near disaster: Eldur Brand, a traveling Arcanist. - possibly a pseudonym but it was a clue that could assist further investigations.