This site is for the trial run of Horizon, which has finished! If you want information on the full game, commencing October 2005, you should go here.
The News
Turn 3
This news covers the period from the first day of Spring's Glory to the last day of Spring's Dusk, 4000HR, and is presented in rough chronological order - the first stories in each section appear just after last session, the last stories appear just before this session.In the Papers
ARISTOCRATIC ORPHAN FETISHIST RING EXPOSED!
(The Horizon Post.) It is a Sad Fact that Horizon's many Orphans, friendless and unprotected by Society, are all too often forced into Crime or Prostitution by the CRUEL POVERTY to which they are exposed. But now, SHOCKING evidence has emerged that these poor, defenceless Orphans are being VICTIMISED by a circle of SICK ORPHAN FETISHISTS within the Nobility! Little orphan Melanie told the Post how, after the death of her Parents, she was sold to a brothel in the Docks, where she was forced to slake the VILE LUSTS of the so-called "Noble" clients; wearing MASKS to hide their SHAME, these DEBAUCHED NOBLEMEN took a SICK pleasure in the VIOLATION of ORPHANS, and patronised the brothel SPECIFICALLY in order to INDULGE their FOUL DESIRES.
Today, thankfully, Melanie is housed in one of the city's Orphanages, but such Houses of Refuge are all too few, and they are often Forced to turn away those who most need their Shelter due to lack of Funds. It falls, as usual, to the Honest, Hard-Working men and women of Horizon to make a difference. Don't abandon innocent Children like Melanie to the BESTIAL URGES of these ORPHAN-RAPING ARISTOCRATS; make a donation to your local Orphanage today, and keep the city's Orphans out of their Clutches!
- James Ridgway
Baron de Montague: In His Own Words
(The Horizon Tribune.) The man calling himself Baron Heironymous Caius Frederick de Montague has, in the short time he has been in the city, established himself as a figure of considerable controversy. Even leaving question of whether he is who he claims to be to one side, he has been accused of being an Imperialist sympathiser, been mooted as the slayer of the "Shark Boy", and led a scientific expedition to recover a fallen Star. He is, by now, somewhat wary of dealing with the Press, but he has consented to an interview when offered a chance to set forth his point of view without the distortions laid upon it by gutter journalists.The Baron tells his stories of high adventure and derring-do with considerable charm and sincerity; it's undeniable that he truly believes that the past fifty years for him passed as a week jousting on flying horses in the Treacherous Lands. The impression the man gives, once his bravado fades, is one of confused melancholy. He is no Imperialist, simply in the grip of nostalgia for a title, lands, privilege and a world of splendour that he is convinced he once had. He has been sufficiently sheltered from the brutal truth of what the Empire was, and from the suffering that underpinned the grandeur of the life he harks back to, to blame the Empire's fall on the Emperor being "a bit loony", rather than recognising the corruption inherent in the authoritarian state.
De Montague is sufficiently convinced of his identity to attempt to prove it, and hence reclaim his title and attendant privileges. He intends to call upon the man who painted the last portrait of the confirmed Baron de Montague, and to have the artist swear that he is the same man as the one he painted. It will be interesting to see whether or not this will be judged as convincing proof by the City.
- Eliza Blake
FALLEN STAR RECOVERED BY HORIZON HEROES
(The Horizon Post.) Following an EXCLUSIVE interview with DR MERRIMAN, a Leading member of the Heroic expedition that last month returned the FALLEN STAR to Horizon, the Post can reveal for the FIRST TIME the TRUE STORY of their EPIC ADVENTURES. Fighting their way across the War-Torn Wilderness of Vegdarbarra, the Heroes had to Bargain with Barbarian Border-Guards, Survive the Scourging of Snow-Storms, and BATTLE WITH SILVER-ARMOURED DEMONS FROM BEYOND THE WALL!!! Bringing back First-Hand accounts of the brutal War in progress there, they report that although most of the Battles have ended in Bloody Stalemates, the forces of BARON YURI appear to be steadily gaining the Upper Hand! But our Bold Adventurers passed unscathed through the Tides of War, and found their way to the STAR, which they prized from the Claws of the DEAD DRAGON who had previously carried it through the Sky.All ACADEMICS agree that the STARS are carried by DRAGONS, and this one Fell due to the Death of its DRAGON. But what killed it?!? The Adventurers report that the Dragon had been TORN OPEN, as if by some MIGHTY BLADE or CLAW. What MONSTER could have accomplished such a thing?? Could it have been the EMPEROR!?! CAN YOU PROVE IT WASN'T?!?!
On its Return to Horizon, the Star was divided in Half. Half went to the University alchemy department; the other half went to the expedition's Sponsors, the famous COLUMNA FAMILY. What either beneficiary will do with their NEW TREASURE is as yet UNKNOWN.
- James Ridgway
The Starfall Expedition: an Account
(The Amateur Natural Philosopher's Periodical.) The expedition left Horizon under the command of the Baron de Montague, with Dr Merriman Atten acting as academic supervisor, and was financed by the Columna family. Among those present were Dr Mia Delan, the vulgar alchemist Roberta Petrel, the Daynann ghoul artist Jhota, Father Flanagan of the Church of the Intercessor, and bodyguards and scouts hired by the Columna family. The first stages of the journey took us through the lands of Captain Qveton and then those of Baron von Litkenstein. As we approached the edge of the Baron's lands, it became abundantly clear to us that we were entering dangerous wilderness; the settlements we passed were more and more heavily fortified the further we came from Horizon.Once outside the Baron's lands, we were beset by strangeness and hostility. The last village we passed before Starfall had been taken over by some kind of cult; crops were rotting in the fields as the villagers worked on a strange construction of wood and stone, at least five stories tall by the time we got there. It can be surmised that close exposure to the falling Star may have had some kind of effect on their minds, possibly exaggerating their need for purpose and order, and instilling in them a burning desire to reach the Stars. We were unable to find more out, as the villagers refused to speak to us. Further in the wilderness, we were set upon by daimons shaped like men in silver armour; wounds inflicted on them sparked and smoked rather than bleeding. During this incident, one of the Jurican bodyguards hired by the generosity of the Columna family nobly sacrificed himself to save us.
Starfall itself was a mile-wide crater, noticeably colder than the area around it. At the base of the crater lay the body of some kind of part-scaled part-feathered daimon, presumably the one which carried the Star. The Star itself was duly extracted from the daimon's chest cavity and encased in protective equipment for the journey home. It appears as a brilliantly glowing sphere about a foot across, which gives off no heat.
The Star is currently in the Imperial University's museum; specimens were taken from the bodies of the carrier daimon and the armoured daimons for the study of the Faculties of Alchemy and Natural Philosophy.
- E. Blake
RACIST VIOLENCE FLARES IN TRADING DISTRICT
(The Horizon Post.) It is with SORROW and SHAME that we must report that our Fair City is being plagued by RACIST VIOLENCE. The TRADING DISTRICT, a centre of the immigrant communities, has witnessed SHOCKING scenes of Brutality, as INNOCENT FOREIGNERS have been victimised by RACIST THUGS emerging from the SLUMS! The JURICANS have bourne the brunt of this Shameful Violence; even the Famous Jurican Actor, Joakhim al-Bahrad, told the Post that he had witnessed FRIENDS and RELATIVES being SLAUGHTERED IN THE STREETS!!!
Where now is the famous Freedom and Toleration of Horizon, which have made it the most Cosmopolitan City in the World? Need we Remind our Readers that the FOUR NATIONS are the city's FRIENDS, and their people have VITAL roles in our economy? We call on all readers of the Post to STAND UP TO RACIST VIOLENCE. DEMONSTRATE in the Trading District at noon on the 8th of Spring's Glory, gathering outside Russell's Sausage Stand. SHOW that the honest People of Horizon will not Tolerate such HOOLIGANISM!!! MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD!!!
- James Ridgway
WARRANT ISSUED FOR JHOTA'S ARREST
(The Horizon Illuminator.) Earlier today the Watchdogs issued a warrant for the arrest of the Ghoul known as "Jhota". The Ghoul is wanted for questioning concerning the recent attack and destruction of the El Faijal restaurant, in which several Watchdogs where killed. The Ghoul Circle has denounced this attack, saying that the action was carried out by a rogue ghoul without their backing. Watchdogs have offered a 10 guilder reward for information leading to the arrest of this fugitive, however members of the public are advised that he is highly dangerous and should not be approached.[OOC: That's a Notable reward on offer for Jhota.]
Atten Lecture On Starfall Expedition
(New Alchemist.) Professor Merriman Atten, who has recently taken up the prestigious post of Head of the Faculty of Natural Philosophy at the University of Horizon, will be giving a talk to all those interested about his expedition to Vegdarbarra in search of the fallen Star. The talk promises to be a lively account of the nature of this widely unexplored country, as well as a first-hand account of the nature of a fallen Star, an object which until now has eluded the sight of mortal man. The Talk will be in the Lord Harringdon lecture theatre at 9 o'clock by the university tower, on the 12th day of Spring's Glory - tickets on sale at the gate.EXCLUSIVE - "SKYLARKING" TAKES OFF!
(The Horizon Illuminator.) Yesterday, a new and exciting sport was introduced to our fair city, inspired by Captain Animo of the Flying Squad and noted gaming gentleman Gerald Montgomery. Twelve dashing young men, including notorious playboy Alexander Dujarnet and dangerous sports enthusiast the Comte de Valise, strapped clockwork wings to themselves at 6pm today in preparation for the race. At the appointed hour, the clockwork pigeon - generously donated by the Clockwork Guild - was released, and the contenders launched themselves from the roof of the Town Hall. This was the beginning of a death-defying course through the skies above the City, chasing the pigeon whose internal clockwork would randomly choose a path between various waypoints, ensuring a unique race each time. Spectators marvelled at the spectacle of the racers skimming the leaves above the City Forest (where Dujarnet entangled himself in a stray vine and plummeted to the ground somewhere withing the forest), over the Fitzkarald Opera House (where Charles Parr-Featherstonehaugh wrapped himself round the weathervane), around the belltower of the Imperial University (where Egnatius di Rossetti was caught in a down-draft and dropped through the roof of the Faculty of Zoology), across the Imperial Ruins (where the Comte de Valise was shot down by an over-enthusiastic guardsman on the Mayoral Legion's barracks) and back to the Noble District, to finish on the roof of the Cattermole Street Station (where Gerald Planchett's wings mysteriously malfunctioned when he attempted to land.
Of the seven unharmed competitors, Miles Fitzhugh was declared the winner, Planchett being in no fit state to claim the trophy. Fitzhugh, 21, said "Well, it's a super sport, isn't it? A bit risky, but that's half the fun!" Captain Animo commented "Marvellous! There's nothing like flying for dash and spectacle and making a hit with the girls! Besides, I had a tenner on Fitzhugh!"
- Edward Travis
Horizon and Jurica Send Military Advisors Into Vegdarbarra
(The Horizon Tribune.) Earlier this morning several battalions of the Mayoral Legions left the city and entered Captain Qveton's lands, where they rendezvoused with a smaller Jurican force and began a march into deeper Vegdarbarra. In a rushed press conference at the Mayoral Barracks the Tribune was informed that military action was being taken against a rogue Imperialist warlord, apparently commanding a remnant of the Imperial Army deep in Vegdarbarran territory. The Tribune was also assured that he posed no threat to the city, and he and his followers would be easily and swiftly dealt with by our forces.It is believed that the Irgarim embassy originally opposed such action, claiming it to be based on false evidence and an act of aggression, however they recently retracted their comments and have been actively supporting the action of late. Unfortunately, the Irgarim embassy was not available for comment.
Stellar Material Theft Attempt!
(The Horizon Illuminator.) The usually quiet and peaceful Department of Cartography of the Imperial University was today disturbed by the whirring of Watchdog wings as the area was swamped by Watchdog special forces, which quickly cordoned off the area, allowing no one to enter. Eventually, after much waiting a flustered officer came out to announce that there had been break-in and an attempt made on the Starheart. However, he stressed that the Heart is still perfectly safe inside the Department's vault and there is nothing to be concerned about.Boom In Wing Production
(The Horizon Tribune.) The Craftsman's district is frantic with work at the best of times, but this morning it is a very hive of activity. The rise to popularity of the new "sky-larking" sport has thrown clockwork wings of the highest calibre into high demand.But the ever-enthusiastic Clockworkers' Guild has risen to the challenge, working night and day to produce the wings that flying enthusiasts need to soar into the sky. And new legislation by the Guild has even permitted apprentices to work on making wings. We at the Tribune salute the ceaseless work that the Guild is carrying out in bringing this new, exciting sport to an ever-widening audience!
Industrialist Lucas Loveday Dies At Sea!
(The Horizon Tribune.) The body of the wealthy industrialist, Lucas Loveday, has been found in the sea off the coast of Lasinia.Mr Loveday's body was discovered at approximately 6pm. The industrialist had been cruising the Lasinian coast aboard his luxury yacht, the Bislan. It is not yet known how Mr Loveday ended up overboard.
Earlier this year Mr Loveday opened his second factory, previously owned by Fotheringson & co., which had been on the brink of closure. But at the same time he was being forced to cut corners in safety to reduce his debts, prompting criticism of his business methods, abrasive management-style, and accusations of embezzlement, fraud, and illicit arms-dealing.
Mr Loveday's sons, Kevin and Ian, have been put in charge of his businesses, and have agreed to make a clean breast of their father's dealings.
INVASION FORCE MOVED ALONG
(The Horizon Post.) The HORROR from VEGDARBARRA, Anarcholes the Black, today marched on the city of Horizon itself! Calling forth BLACK, BLOODY VENGEANCE against the people unless his demands were met, the DARK INVADER marched a full FOUR PACES down Crown Street before being APPREHENDED by a VIGILANT GANG of WATCHDOGS and told to keep the noise down.Crown of Steel Ends Triumphant Run
(The Horizon Tribune.) The much-acclaimed Crown of Steel is drawing to a close soon, with the impending return of Clia Rosto to Lasinia. Just a few months ago many were suggesting that Ms. Rosto's performance was the weak point of the show, and it was even suggested that the producers were seeking a replacement. In recent performances, however, Ms. Rosto seems to have gotten into the swing of things; whereas her early performances seemed apathetic and tired, she now projects a tangible aura of world-weary exhaustion, successfully portraying a heroine for whom life has no more surprises, no more indignities, no more horrors.Her climactic confrontation with the Emperor is easily the centrepiece of this play, and I anticipate that it will become regarded as a seminal performance by generations of actors and theatre-lovers. The Emperor (played by the ever-talented Joakhim al-Bahrad, who has been on top of his form throughout the season) strides across the stage in a cold fury, speaking to advisors who have long since abandoned him, demanding answers to questions alternating between the nonsensical or trivial to the transcendantly profound. Clia Rosto's Lady Ferrars chases him around the war room like a nurse chasing an errant infant, her every attempt to coax the Emperor back to sanity and humanity rebuffed. When she finally collapses at the centre of the stage, weeping for the final disintegration of a great mind, the Emperor merely circles her again and again, repeating his final line like a mantra: "There must be some way, there must be some way. Victory is in our grasp."
Ms. Rosto's final speech - an interpretation of Lady Ferrars's establishment of the Provisional Government - suggests that she has become a convert to Joakhim's restrained school of acting. Whereas in prior performances she tried to give the speech an air of confidence and authority - an air she consistently failed to establish - she is instead a defeated woman, telling her loyal colleagues (including a young Colonel Zero) that their only choice is to rebel against the very city they had sworn to defend, to oust the man who had been the hero of the First and Second Ages and who all had hoped would come to his senses at last.
Crown of Steel goes beyond mere entertainment: it is a masterpiece, a profound examination of the tragedy and depravity behind the Emperor's last days - and in turn, a commentary on the inherent tragedy of power itself. All concerned should congratulate themselves. When I left the theatre, I found an audience member collecting signatures for a petition, demanding that Joakhim al-Bahrad be granted a residency at the Fitzkarald. I did not hesitate in signing.
Underground Play Praises Bryant
(The People of Lasinia.) It's uncommon in the extreme for Horizon's vibrant underground theatre scene to praise authority figures, but Dying In the Gutter In Edge City With a Comb In Your Hair has taken this extraordinary step.The People of Lasinia was given an exclusive advance look at the script for this piece, but we could not quite believe the content until we saw it onstage at the Speak Free, Brother, The Eyes of the Man Are Absent Here Theatre in the basement of Cuthbert and Greythorne Theatrical Supplies.
The play concerns itself with the vicious Triumverate - a cabal of Imperialist oligarchs clearly based on Alric Columna, William Kellor and Raymond Daynann - and their bid to drive forigners out of "Edge City" with the assistance of Ocean-spawned fish daimons. "Sheriff Brint", an uncompromising gunslinger with a touching and affectionate relationship with his assistant, Deputy Animus, unites all the people of the city to bring them down. The proud ethnic victims of the racial violence come together with humble dockworkers, hard-working factory foremen, loveable street urchins and other blatant references to Horizon underworld figures to end the wave of violence terrorising the streets.
"Sheriff Brint" - aside from his relationship with Deputy Animus, which seems to be pure invention - is clearly a reference to Commissioner Bryant, the so-called "Walking Corpse". This newspaper is genuinely confused about the motives behind the play. On one hand, if Bryant is truly the friend of the people he is portrayed as, why does he continue the official persecution of the HPLF, the true voice of the people? On the other hand, if - as cynics have suggested - Bryant is an authoritarian stooge who has no qualms about making deals with dangerous criminals who profit from the suffering of the people in order to impose peace and order on the streets which cry out for violent revolution, why is the Speakfree selling out and producing government propaganda? Answers on a postcard, please...
CAPTAIN ANIMO AND PENELOPE WEISS KIDNAPPED BY VEGDARBARRAN THUGS!
(The Horizon Illuminator.) HERO of the Flying Squad, Captain Animo, and his BEAUTIFUL DATE Penelope Weiss were kidnapped yesterday and subjected to a TERRIFYING ORDEAL at the hands of VEGDARBARRAN BANDITS! Eyewitness report that both Animo and Weiss fell unconscious halfway through a meal at swanky dockyard restaurant THE FEISTY CRAWFISH, an ideal venue for a quiet dinner for two a mere five minutes from the Upper Docks subway station. Having been sent to sleep - perhaps through the occult intervention of Vegdarbarran warlock ANACHROLES THE BLACK - the pair were seized by BRUTISH RUFFIANS and taken to an unknown location.Thankfully, both Animo and Weiss were found ALIVE this morning, but neither have commented on their ordeal. It is not known yet whether they have survived intact, and the ladies of Horizon are asking the awful question - DID ANIMO LOSE HIS TRUNCHEON?
MERCUDO THE MYSTERIOUS VANISHES MYSTERIOUSLY!
(The Horizon Post.) MERCUDO THE MYSTERIOUS, the otherworldly heirophant of HYPNOTISM, has vanished from Horizon! He has seen none of his clients for over two months, and many are becoming concerned."I need to see him urgently!" declared Petunia Price of Oak Lane, the Noble District. "I need another auditing to cope with the trauma of my fourth life, otherwise how am I to cope with my rape and murder at the hands of brutish, strong, muscular Jurican thugs?"
"He's a miracleworker!" declared Justin Rensfield, factory owner's son and humanities student. "He told me that I was almost clear of my past-life traumas and was almost ready to develop my psychic awareness at my last audit - how could he vanish in our time of need?"
Long-term clients of Mercudo who have joined his inner circle have been quick to reassure fellow devotees. Robert Lubb, Mercudo's press agent, said "Mercudo's disappearance is puzzling to all of us, but we're all aware that Mercudo does nothing that is not in our best interest. It is up to us to have faith that he will return, and to self-audit until he returns with the new occult arts required to take us to the next level."
OCCITAN SHAW, our resident wizard, is currently seeking Mercudo with the aid of a dowsing rod. Meanwhile, turn to page 17 to find out how YOU can buy a copy of Mercudo's latest tract Hypnotics: the Fourth Age Art of Psychic Cleansing.
Conquering the Treacherous Lands In the Fourth Age
(The Amateur Natural Philosopher's Periodical.) Supported by the Imperial University Faculties of both Cartography and Natural Philosophy, the Periodical is happy to report that for the first time in a free society, expeditions have been sent into the Treacherous Lands for the purposes of exploration and civilisation. Word from the first few expeditions suggests that two colonies have already been founded and are in touch with the authorities of Horizon. Natural philosophers hope to join the colonies in the near future to begin investigating the reputed "alterations" of the laws of nature that are experienced in the Treacherous Lands.Students of history will recall that frequent Imperial proclaimations in the Second Age suggested the existence of an Empire answering to the Emperor in the Treacherous Lands, but access to the Imperial Gate was closely controlled. In the Third Age increasing numbers of soldiers were sent through, and were not allowed to return, before the Gate was abruptly closed "indefinitely", and has not been reopened, until recently. Accounts of a Treacherous Lands empire have been vindicated by the current expeditions, who mention in their early reports an "abandoned city" immediately beyond the Wall. However, many details of what the explorers have found remain sketchy, so far. We at the Periodical are sure that our readers are as eager as we are for detailed investigations of the flora, fauna and geology and the Treacherous Lands, which must surely follow in the near future!
The Good Old Days
(The People of Lasinia.) It seems that our nation is on the verge of a great revival movement, possibly fueled by nostalgia. The revival is, of course, the absolutest police state and continual repression under a crazed dictator that characterised the days of the Empire in the Third Age, something that most of our citizens only have the "opportunity" to experience in history books. In their paranoid fear of those they have oppressed and abandoned, the Senate weekly votes through more funding and powers for the police force, allwoing them to combat 'working class organisations'; any number of bribes and favours grease the passage of such favours through the Senate.The nuturing of oppression is a foul enough crime. But the Senate refuse to hear the evidence presented to them that they are voting, piecemeal, for their own destruction; head of police Lord Anthony Lasbege is stockpiling weapons and intends, as is well known seemingly to everyone not currently sitting on the Senate, is preparing to declare a state of emergency, then disband the Senate in an armed coup and declare himself King of Lasinia.
This paper is no supporter of the current regime. But surely the nobility can only add its voice to that of the commoners - the people of Lasinia - in calling out to the Senate to remove their heads from the sand and stop this meance before it can proceed further. And how to prevent the revolutionary menace? As the voice of that "menace", the People is happy to provide the answer: end oppression! Equalise the Law! Open the Univeristies!
(continues in a similar vein)
The Loveday Affair: Who Are the International Industrialists?
(The Liberator.) With the disappearance at sea of Lucas Loveday it appears that the authorities are closing his case. This is a pity, because it is this citizen's opinion that there are still questions left unanswered.The authorities enjoy pointing to the industrialists of the Steam and acclaiming them as examples for us all, proof that in the Fourth Age one can work up from a lowly factory floor operative to a bloated plutocrat able to buy and sell government ministers with his pocket change. If this sort of social mobility were truly possible in Horizon, it would be laudable: we could genuinely believe that our lot in life was a result of our own hard work, and not the merciless forces that keep the vast majority of us poor and hungry.
Of course, we all have enough common sense to realise that it doesn't work like that. The playing field just isn't level. Aside from the fact that one's education - and thus one's ability to make it big in Steam designing - is inherently connected to the circumstances of one's birth, the fact is that the established factory owners have a vested interest in preventing entrepreneurs from succeeding. The economic pie is limited, after all, and more diners at the table means less pie for everyone.
My investigations into the powers behind the Steam have come up with startling statistics. Around 80% of the factories of the Steam are owned by around half a dozen individuals. I have my suspicions about the remaining 20%. These individuals collaborate frequently. They have a common agenda. They own factories in other nations as well as Horizon. They collaborate with the authorities and with renegade strikebreaking forces in order to keep the Steam Union down. It is my belief that Loveday's troubles stem from his attempts to force his way into this cabal - or oust them from power entirely.
In the next issue of the Liberator I will be printing the names of these individuals. I will be detailing which factories they own, I will be detailing exactly which individuals they pay to do their dirty work, and I will be documenting their full, bloody history. There are just a few more loose ends to tie up. And then I will tear the veil of secrecy from the Steam.
Congress Comes of Age?
(The Horizon Tribune.) Observers of our city's political scene were jolted into alertness this week by unexpected developments - specifically, signs of cohesiveness and maturity in the Democratic Congress of Horizon. Politically aware citizens generally think of the Congress as a talking shop, and with some justification. Although styling itself "the only civilised opposition" to the Mayoral authorities, it is noted for tedious and ineffectual debates that culminate in pie-in-the-sky resolutions or plans with no practical basis. In the last couple of weeks, though, certain members have been active in organising community action against the racist violence (and, it is said, gangland disputes) that has swept the Slums and the Trading District. In particular, James Ridgeway, otherwise known as a reporter on "novelty" periodical The Horizon Post, has been noted as "instrumental" in helping to bring the violence to an end, and all without interfering in Watchdog operations in the same area. A pragmatic willingness to work with existing authorities for the good of the people they seek to represent, rather than spouting tired "populist" mantras, is a welcome change for the DCH.Signs of growing maturity are also evident in DCH support for Dying In the Gutter In Edge City With a Comb In Your Hair, a play praising the role played by Commissioner Bryant in opposing the undoubtedly dangerous crime families of the Slums in recent days. Once this is combined with a more sensibly critical attitude to government, the Congress may indeed begin to fulfil its self-appointed role.
DARK AVENGER SLAYS TOP HOOD - VIGILANTE OR MOB ENFORCER?
(The Horizon Illuminator.) High drama and BLOODY REVENGE last night at the family home of Raymond Daynann (77), respected businessman and well-known gangster. Family friends and retainers responded to a commotion in his bed chamber to find his BRUTALLY BUTCHERED BODY splayed across the floor in a LAKE OF WARM BLOOD, and a dark clad figure making good its escape. What could this be but the DARK AVENGER, destroying one more "enemy of the people"? Doubt was removed by the bizarre "CALLING CARD" he left behind: a chorus of THUGS, who proclaimed "We work for Count Columna, and that was the Dark Avenger, that makes us double hard bastards, now get out of our way!" before fleeing the house themselves. WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN? THE ILLUMINATOR IS HERE TO TELL YOU! We're not stupid enough to say that Count Columna is any sort of gangster, but it ALL ADDS UP! The Dark Avenger is really a GANGLAND ENFORCER, working to SLAY the enemies of a gang which must remain unknown for the moment! Concern for the common man is BUT A RUSE, as shown by the VICIOUS STABBING of Ray Daynann, who the law called wrong but was, in the end, a CHAMPION OF THE PEOPLE!The Illuminator calls on the so-called WHITE AVENGER to uncover the truth - and FAST!
Watchdogs and Militia Crush Racist Threat
(The Horizon Tribune.) The attacks in the Trading district have been dramatically reduced, thanks to the intervention of increased Watchdog support in the Trading district. As a result of the horrendous violence over the last few months the Watchdogs and local volunteer militias were instructed to be extra-vigilant in the trading district. These efforts seem to have paid off, as racist attacks seem to have been reduced to about 10% of the previous month’s figure. The Tribune commends the efforts of the police in combating these xenophobic attitudes. The Tribune interviewed Ms Rosina Fazir, a prominent Jurican trader:"I was afraid to leave my home at night during these attacks. My business requires me to meet regularly with potential customers, but I was finding it difficult to function normally. My shop was broken into twice in the same month and I was considering returning to Jurica had this violence continued," commented Ms Fazir. "However, the improvement has been incredible. The Watchdogs have been incredibly efficient in bringing at least some of the culprits to justice and deterring others."
Upon surveying the opinions of the inhabitants of the Trading district, there appears to be universal approval of how the Watchdogs have handled the situation. The Tribune hopes that this will act as a deterrant to future racist attacks.
MAYORAL BARRACKS ATTACKED!!!
(The Horizon Illuminator.) Last night a TERRIBLE EXPLOSION occurred near the Mayoral Barracks just before a FIRE broke out in the area. Emergency aid was called in from the nearest group of Watchdogs to HEROICALLY BATTLE THE ENSUING FLAMES. A few passers by, whose names have not been released, were caught up in the blaze and were RUSHED AWAY for EMERGENCY TREATMENT. Fortunately the blaze does not seem to have claimed any fatalities as yet. As BRAVE FIREFIGHTERS battled through the night, the flames were finally quelled in the early hours of the morning. The Illuminator is called to question just who might be responsible for this VIOLENT ATTACK. The Illuminator was given an EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW with Captain Mark Jamieson, one of the Watchdogs present at the scene of the blaze.
"We do not know as yet the cause of the fire but we are investigating the possibility of a terrorist attack by the HPLF or the Imperialists. The blaze seems to have started in an alleyway near the Mayoral Barracks and it is almost certain that this was an attack on the barracks themselves."
The Captain also commented that they were unable to locate the source of the fire but he suspected that some manner of grenade had been thrown, just having missed the actual barracks. But who would have the means to carry out such an attack??? What further threat does this pose to the city of Horizon?!?! Read the Illuminator every day for the best coverage of recent events!!!
Ghouls and Slum Locals Crush Versinya Cultists; Circle Accuses Criminal Element of Attacking Ghouls
(The Horizon Tribune.) The threat of martial law in the Slums seems to have passed, as the grotesque cult of Versinya has been driven to extinction. However, new tensions are brewing after the death of a Hunter, a prized member of the Ghoul community.Previously, teams of Ghouls and local heavies were both engaged in flushing out and exterminating the cultists. The Versinya devotees were not without weapons, however: witnesses report terrifying magics being brought to bear against the forces of righteousness. The Ghouls' mastery of shamanic magic proved a crucial advantage to them; local human vigilante groups found themselves struggling to compete. Many of the humans who took up arms against the Versinya cultists, as well as innocent bystanders, have become diseased after being cursed by the devotees - the Slum-based leper colony on Rot Island has almost doubled in population - and many humans wounded in the fight have found that their wounds are failing to heal, becoming rotten. In many instances, priests of the Intercessor were onhand to heal injured persons, but several vigilantes could not be helped, and either died of their wounds or were forced to suffer amputations of infected limbs.
In several instances, the bodies of deceased cultists were reported to rise at the command of cult leaders to return to the fray, terrifying the vigilantes. Ill-advised attempts to burn the bodies only forced the locals into confrontations with shuffling, burning corpses - only those bodies which were swiftly taken away and consumed by the Ghouls were entirely safe from rising, although only major figures within the cult seemed able to raise the dead.
Whilst the locals were heavily demoralised by the unexpected zombie attacks, the activities of the outlaw Ghoul Jhota were of note. Skillfully tracking down and immolating cultist by the score, Jhota appeared to be operating without the sanction of the Ghoul Circle - several eyewitnesses report angry confrontations between Hunter patrols and Jhota.
This reporter was lucky enough to witness the final confrontation between an elite Hunter squad and the cult leader, the self-named "Prince of Corruption". The Prince had previously been seriously injured by an encounter with vigilantes bearing oneshots. It was hard to believe that he was still standing; a gaping, gangrenous wound in his chest revealed his still-beating heart, and half his face had rotted off, apparently as the result of his devotions to the vile goddess of filth and depravity. Deciding not to attack him directly, the squad - which included a shaman of the Stars - summoned a silver-armoured knight, apparently some sort of agent or daimon of the Stars, which strode forth and slew the Prince before vanishing into the night.
The co-operation between the Ghouls and the humans seemed short-lived however, as partway through the suppression of the cult a vigilante group bearing oneshots opened fire on a lone Hunter, one of those appointed by the Ghoul Circle to seek out the cultists. The Hunter shot back and killed one of the vigilantes, but he was already fatally wounded, and the vigilantes escaped with his body swiftly. The Honoured Zarasta, a member of the Ghoul Circle, gave us the following statement:
"Our brother was slain by a group of individuals who, until recently, had been aiding us in tracking down the Versinya cult. They did not all get away; our brother slew one of his assailants before he was cut down. We have eaten of his assailant. We have seen the one who ordered this. We know who is to blame. We will be petitioning the Colonel about this matter. We say to the one who ordered this: return the body of our brother immediately, that we may remember him by consuming him. Cease warring upon us. You do not know what you risk."
Colonel Zero's office has issued this comment:
The Mayor takes all crimes against the Ghoul community extremely seriously, as he is sworn to by the Mayoral Oath. If the honoured Circle tell the Mayor that they feel threatened by certain groups and individuals, he will act immediately to resolve this threat to civil order. The walking dead observed in the Slums are a vivid reminder of the essential service that the Ghouls give our community, and the Mayor will use all means at his disposal - whether this involves granting special powers to the Watchdogs, or sending in the Mayoral Legions - to ensure that they are not persecuted by an irresponsible minority.
Visiting the Ghoul Quarter, this reporter noticed a heightened level of security provided by the Mayor. As well as new weapons being handed out to members of the Ghoul community, Mayoral Legion patrols were manning guard posts and patrolling the area.
TAXI DRIVER ASSAULTED BY GANG OF THUGS IN STEAM
(The Horizon Illuminator.) Relationships between the Steam Union and the Grey Order have declined after a series of attacks targeting taxi drivers by large flat-capped thugs. In the latest of these attacks, Paul Johnson, 47, was pulled out of his taxi in the Steam district by what he described as a gang of burly men who then proceeded to roll his taxi over into the river. The cause of this series of attacks is not known, however owners of Grey technology are warned to be on their guard.WANTED - DANIEL RAKEMORE
(The Town Crier and posters across the city.) On suspicion of Assault, Obstruction of Watchdog Officers in Pursuit of their Duty, Possession and Use of Illegal and Dangerous Clockworking, and Malicious Stupidity In A Situation Likely to Cause Mass Destruction.An 80 guilder reward will be paid for information leading to the arrest of Mr. Daniel Rakemore, suspected of perpetrating the above named offences during the resolution of the so-called "Sharkboy" murders. Mr. Rakemore is known to work for the "Horizon Illuminator" but was last seen in the area of the Riverview Tavern. Bring information to the Doghouse, to be treated in confidence.
[OOC: That's a Significant reward for selling out Rakemore.]
On the Grapevine
Come and Have a Go If You Think You're Hard Enough
"He's crazy!""Who?"
"That Ghoul, Jhota. He's challenged the Dark Avenger."
"He has?"
"Well... near enough. Been asking all round about the Avenger, asking anyone if they know anything about him, even putting his money where his mouth is. He also said he was a wimp and should try himself against a real challenge."
"I do hope he doesn't win, I like that Dark Avenger chappie, got my cat down from a tree last Tuesday he did."
"Have to see what the odds are but my money's on the ghoul - self proclaimed fire shaman - don't know what he might be capable of. That Dark Avenger might be able to take down a mugger but Jhota on the rampage? I think not!"
Crace Columna Delivers Twin Silvers
"It seems Count Alric has placed his mark on Raymond Daynann...""Really?"
"They say his Crace delivered him the twin silvers not more than two days ago."
"Doesn’t surprise me. Still I had thought this whole gang war thing was drawing to a close..."
The White Avenger Is Coming!
(Screamed at top volume from atop a rooftop):
People of Horizon, fear not! For too long the Dark Avenger has menaced you with his vigilante ways, arbitrary justice and threatening behaviour! For too long he has taken money from those he "protects", for too long he has rained havoc and terror upon the city of Horizon. Fear not! I, the WHITE AVENGER, will sally forth into the streets and do battle with this evildoer!
(The white-clad, masked figure leaps away into the darkness with a flourish of her cloak.)
Riotous Rumblers Relent Rapacious Ravaging
"Hey, I hear things are quietened down again in the Steam. Looks like those Rumbler gangs have kissed and made up.""Ew. Imagine kissing a Rumbler."
"It was a figure of speech, you doink. They've stopped fighting. Whatever it was they were angry about must have sorted itself out."
Identity of the Dark Avenger Revealed
"It's obvious isn't it?""Not really... run it by me one more time?"
"This time pay attention! Basically Raymond Daynann is dead right? Right. He was given the Twin Silvers by Crace Columna so they say - just walked up to him plain as you like and handed 'em over all according to the rules."
"I'm with you so far..."
"So, then Daynann turns up dead and seen leaving the scene of the crime is a mysterious figure in a black cape! Very swooshy and billowing by all accounts. Not you're general rag and tag cloak. Now who is known for their notable black cape? The Dark Avenger of course! It's so he can hide in all them there shadows all the more easily and swoop down upon his enemies to smite them."
"...right..."
"So isn't it obvious? Crace Columna is the Dark Avenger!"
Steam Union Covers Up Fatal Steam Engine Flaws!
"Have you heard? Turns out that train accident wasn't some sort of attack on the Juricans at all! It was negligence, plain and simple!""You're kidding! I thought that had Dayann written all over it."
"No, not at all. The Steam Union are trying to cover this up, but they used some sort of dodgy cheapo material for the railway. Then all the shaking from the carriage knocked some changeover pins loose, the rails slipped off kilter, and WHAM!"
"Wham?"
"WHAM! The train gets thrown off the tracks! It gets worse, too. There's these safety documents about it floating around, warning about the danger - and they were authored by Wilfred Barnett!"
"Wilfred Barnett? Wasn't he the one who died in the Filkins factory accident last year?"
"Sure. Accident. You keep on calling it that."
In the Small Ads
ARE YOU AN OCCULTIST?
(The Horizon Post.) I have some materials you may be interested in. Genuine esoteric information offered at a competitive price. Talk to M. Latchkins at the RView.WING ENTHUSIASTS!
(The Horizon Illuminator.) Are you adept at flying clockwork wings? Do you seek to earn serious amounts of cash participating in the brand new sport of "Extreme Skylarking"? Are you willing to perform before a select audience in secluded surroundings? Can you keep a secret? Our representative will come to the RView wearing a white carnation.STOP PRESS! Extra Newspaper Article Published Just Before the Session!
LORDS OF MISRULE
(The Horizon Post.)
***EXTRA! STAR REPORTER DANIEL RAKEMORE DESERTS ILLUMINATOR FOR THE WINNING TEAM! READ THIS GRIPPING EXPOSE OF HIGH-SOCIETY CORRUPTION BY RAKEMORE - NOW OF THE POST!***
Greetings to the readers of the HORIZON POST! Following gutter-rag THE HORIZON ILLUMINATOR's attempts to stifle both my career and the TRUTH, I have brought this SENSATIONAL STORY of SOCIETY SEDITION and SALACIOUS SCANDAL to the only paper left in Horizon that still respects the man in the street!Far be it from this reporter to criticise the long lunch breaks, wine-tasting sessions, and drowsy afternoons enjoyed by their noble lordships in the Goodly Chamber. But even a common hack can put in his words' worth on the subject of a group of SLUM GANGSTERS, PUSHERS, and PIMPS - especially when that kind of SCUM exploit their positions in our Goodly Chamber to get away, quite literally, with MURDER - and also PROSTITUTION, RACKETEERING, and GRAFT.
That's right - the stinking decay that infects our whole society is spreading outwards from A ROTTEN HEART IN THE GOODLY CHAMBER. While their lordships laugh, drink and dance the night away at their balls and clubs, the NOBLE FAMILY COLUMNA are selling drugs to your CHILDREN, forcing your SISTER to sell herself to pay their ruinous so-called "protection charges", beating your BROTHER for daring to argue, and shooting your CAT because it seems like FUN! And all the while, they laugh their braying laughs and make familiar chat with the so-called DEFENDERS OF OUR CITY! Who are these common hoods in fine gowns?
- COUNT ALRIC COLUMNA - the ringleader, one pillar of the INFAMOUS THREE FAMILIES, cuts an elegant figure as he SWAGGERS LIKE THE PIMP HE IS through Horizon's high society. Secretly, his numerous debauched addictions are funded by the tears of a hundred whores!
- MOEBIUS COLUMNA - seemingly the respectable gentleman, but what of his so-called "AUCTION HOUSE"? I can EXCLUSIVELY reveal that it "AUCTIONS" stolen goods - and ORPHANS! It is an essential part of the CHILD-ABUSING ring previously revealed in the POST!
- CRACE COLUMNA - the noted Society beauty is in fact a dangerous SERIAL KILLER, her addiction to BUTCHERING WHORES and RENTBOYS covered up by the bullying and influence of her brothers! She has been noted even by her contemporaries in Society as "DISTURBED" and "A FREAK"!
And those looking for backers of the recent wave of RACIST VIOLENCE against the Jurican community don't have far to look! The press of Horizon are united in begging and demanding that TOP COP RANDALL BRYANT show his mettle by CUTTING OUT THIS DANGEROUS CANCER in our society! PRISON FOR MOEBIUS! THE ASYLUM FOR CRACE! THE BLOCK FOR THE GANGSTER COUNT!
AND THIS IS A FAMILY THAT IS VERY KEEN ON LOVE AND LOYALTY! THE TREE THAT DOES NOT BRANCH HIDES ROT WITHIN! SUCH ARE THE RITES THAT BIND!
- Daniel Rakemore