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The News
Turn 8
This news covers the period from the first day of Winter's Dawn to the last day of Winter's Rise, 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
Alric Columna Restored
(The Town Crier.) Following a ruling by the Loyal Order of Hounds yesterday, flaws in the wording of various legal documents have resulted in Alric Columna's renunciation last month of his title being declared void. Since he was eventually found not guilty of the crimes for which he had been sentenced to death, the Goodly Chamber's transeferal of the title to the missing Moebius Columna has also been annulled. Therefore unless Alric Columna renounces his title again, he is, as of this morning, Count Columna once more...Daniel Priestly: Hero of the Revolution
(The People of Lasinia.) A variety of heroes of the Revolution were honoured at the first meeting of the National Soviet of the Democratic Republic of Lasinia, and at the People of Lasinia we intend to join in the praise. Each week we will be profiling individuals who, through their actions, has come to embody the spirit and ideals of the revolution in the minds of many. In this issue, we wish to celebrate the case of Daniel Priestly, Hero of the Revolution First Class, who stands as living proof that the circumstances of one's birth need not prevent one from contributing to the People's Party's endeavours.Daniel Priestly was born into the aristocracy some twenty years ago, and grew up in surroundings of great privilege. Shielded from the harsh truths about his family's fortune, he was an unworldly individual until he began his studies at the College of the Enlightened.
At the College he soon began attending meetings of the local LPLF cell. This was a dangerous move for Priestly, both due to the natural and reasonable caution of the revolutionaries (who justly feared infiltration by reactionary forces) and due to the repercussions if word of his political activities reached his family. He soon impressed the other members of the cell with his revolutionary fervour, however; risking imprisonment and disgrace, he helped to distribute copies of this very newspaper on the streets of the capital, and soon began contributing essays himself to this and to other revolutionary publications, writing under a pseudonym. His Redistribution of Wealth and Adjustment of Demographics In Revolutionary Times: a Richterist-Democratic Perspective proved to be an influence on the emergency redistributive measures undertaken by the LPLF during the revolution.
Priestly had proven that he could talk the talk, but when the hour of destiny came he also proved that he could walk the walk. Priestly visited his parents at the family mansion the day before the revolution; as soon as news reached the Priestly household of the first blows struck in the name of the people, Priestly confronted his parents and younger siblings, arrested them as enemies of the people, and using the emergency powers invested in him as a cell organiser of the LPLF executed them with his father's clockwork revolver. He then burned down the family mansion - a grotesque monument to fascist aristocratic sensibilities - and oversaw the redistribution of the family wealth to the people. Priestly then went to the front line and fought valiantly against the fascist oppressors, as well as serving on several Revolutionary Committees for the Suppression of Entrenched Influences. His heroic victory over his aristocratic past and the circumstances of his birth is a reminder to all that one's position in life is not a barrier to (and is not an excuse not to) participate in the transformation of society the People's Party is bringing.
Comrade Priestly was given his First Class medal by the recently-elected General Secretary Hellodus, who had been appointed leader of the National Soviet by a vote of the National Soviet under the advice of the Political Bureau of the Lasinian People's Party.
INTRUDER DISCOVERED AT CLOCKWORK GUILDHOUSE!
TALKING PIGEON LEFT BEHIND!
(The Horizon Post.) What appeared to be a break-in at the CLOCKWORK GUILDHOUSE was today FOILED by an unknown intervention. The perpetrator appears to have become SPOOKED and FLED through an open window, leaving behind a bizarre TALKING CLOCKWORK PIGEON which was discovered FURIOUSLY HUMPING the less sentient pigeon used for skylarking races."******** to all of you!" screamed the pigeon at the Horizon Post's interviewer. "I don't want to talk to any ******* journalist! **** you all, except for one, and he can **** himself!"
The clockworkers are BAFFLED. "We haven't been able to work out how whoever created this pigeon managed it. Either it's a work of clockworking genius, or magic is involved. We'd like to find out by dissecting the pigeon, but whenever we try it bites our fingers and calls us ********s."
The pigeon was last seen in the guild bar, demanding "a double whisky with no ice and a big ****ing cigar, ****-cheeks."
GOVERNOR FROST SURVIVES IMPERIALIST ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT!
(The Horizon Post.) A close call for Governor Frost of New Urtovsk and Leander today, as an IMPERIALIST sniper came close to killing him. The YOUNG GOVERNOR, reacting in the nick of time to a sudden gleam of the sniper's barrel, LEAPT to one side. Were it not for the GOVERNOR'S quick reaction, the bullet would surely have struck him in the HEART and KILLED HIM. As it was, Frost was merely wounded severely in the sword-arm. PLUCKY FROST has vowed not to let his injury in any way affect his DEVOTION to the well-being of the colonies. We at the Horizon Post say: "Good for you, Governor Frost!"Work Begins On New Faculty of Natural Philosophy Lab
(The Amateur Journal of Natural Philosophy.) Work has recently begun in the horizon university on a high-tech new astrophilosophy lab as part of the natural philosophy department. The new Atten laboratory founded by Professor Merriman Atten, 54, will with its array of telescopes better allow budding natural philosophy's students to study the interactions of daemons of both sky and stars as well as generally enabling a better understanding of the Powers in the near future by the intellectual community.CASSIUS SIGHTED ON BEGGAR-KILLING RAMPAGE!!!
(The Horizon Post.) FOUL AVATAR Cassius - devotee of the wicked goddess of decay and corruption VERSINYA - was sighted tearing beggars LIMB FROM LIMB, as his glowing red eyes burned with the BLOODTHIRSTY RAGE of the malign gods.The FIEND is often depicted in esoteric journals as a soldier of the pre-Imperial era bearing a MAGGOT INFESTED and decayed war wound. In-house sorcerer and expert on the esoteric OCCITAN SHAW claimed that this was an indication of the coming of the prophesised war with the gods, as detailed in the ancient texts of Ralin, the archaic scrolls uncovered in Jurica during the Emperor's regime. What can the fair citizens of Horizon do to prevent the ONCOMING SLAUGHTER?!?! Occitan Shaw recommends consuming at least one cup of urine from the Vegdarbarran mountain goat, as its natural spiritual purifying elements will repel the influence of avatars and the gods they serve.
For more information on defense against the occult please send 5 gilders to the Horizon Post to receive your copy of Occitan Shaws latest bestseller: Protecting Against the Malign Gods and the Individual's Responsibility in Matters of the Esoteric Nature.
[OOC: That’s a minor payment for the book.]
TERRORISTS BOMB COLONIES - EMPEROR'S FRONT CLAIM RESPONSIBILITY
(The Horizon Illuminator.) The colonies in New Horizon on the other side of the wall have taken SERIOUS DAMAGE after they became the target of a bombing campaign. EXPLOSIONS have ripped through and DESTROYED half of the grain silos, representing half of the harvest that the colonies have grown since their establishment there. In another series of BOMBINGS equipment stores and the infirmary of Leander were destroyed. A statement released by the EMPEROR'S FRONT has claimed responsiblitly for the attacks stating that "without the blessing of the Emperor the colonies had no right to cross the Wall and establish themselves." Governor Frost aided in preventing more attacks when he lead a search through the colonies and found MORE BOMBS on other public buildings and the remaining grain silos. These bombs were subsequently removed. With winter growing strong on the other side of the wall and HALF the harvest gone it can only be hoped that the colonies will be able to make it through the winter. Supplies from Horizon have been promised, however it is another blow to the self-sufficiency of the Colonies that they will require aid to allow their continued survival in their first year of existance.BOUNTY HUNTER RAIDS TUCO RESIDENCE!
(The Horizon Illuminator.) The MYSTERY BOUNTY HUNTER from Lasinia who has caused a stir in the seedy parts of town - known only as "NIKOLAI" - has been involved in a DARING RESCUE OF PRISONERS from a building believed to belong to alleged drug-lord Eric Tuco!Passersby in the Trading District first realised that trouble was afoot when they heard a LOUD EXPLOSION coming from within the residence, and the sound of GUNFIRE rang out! Before long, Nikolai was seen FLEEING THE SCENE, leading a number of well-known WHORES, STRUMPETS AND RENT BOYS away from the building's cellar. Some eyewitnesses report that some of these individuals had NO HANDS, suggesting the involvement of the much-feared CULT OF THE MUTILATED ONE!
Nonetheless, the Watchdogs were not about to let such violence go without an explanation! (Some locals have suggested that Watchdog patrols outside the building in question had been especially frequent lately, so it seems that they were waiting for trouble.) Soon a patrol was HOT ON THE TAIL of Nikolai, their sniffer dogs CHASING THE SCENT. They found only his TRENCHCOAT, doused in ANISEED OIL - and in one of the pockets, a FALSE BEARD and a Vegdarbarran-Horizon phrasebook.
Who was this mysterious stranger who saved the steetwalkers from a FATE WORSE THAN DEATH? Our guess is that Nikolai was none other than the DARK AVENGER HIMSELF, working UNDERCOVER to rescue the whores. The only question that remains is: WHAT WERE THEY DOING IN TUCO'S BUILDING?
Horizon-Irgar International Train Derailed
(The Horizon Tribune.) Just when it seemed that the public were beginning to forget last winter's train accident, the rail companies have been confronted with another rail disaster, the second major derailing this year.This time, the affected train was travelling from Irgar to Horizon, along a much-used route. Early suggestions that the steam-loving Irgarim engineers on the train were playing fast and loose with safety standards were angrily denied by the Royal Irgar Union of Steamworkers, who stated that they understood that not everyone shares the healthy Irgar disregard for life and limb, and all international trains from Irgar are operated according to international safety standards. Indeed, crash investigators from Horizon and Irgar are yet to find any evidence of human error, or a malfunction in the train itself. "It's not as if the engine cannae take it," said one Irgar engineer.
A failure of the points is therefore suspected; this is unusual, since the points in question should in theory have been good for decades to come. Whilst some are suggesting that steam technology might not be as robust or as reliable as it is assumed to be, the Horizon Steam Union has already begun picketing the offices of the railway companies, claiming that they have behaved negligently.
BODY DISCOVERED AT DEL ORTO ORPHANAGE - SINISTER GIFT FROM MUTILATED CULTISTS
(The Horizon Post.) The MUTILATED and DISFIGURED corpse of a young child has been found at the Del Orto orphanage STRUNG UP in one of the boys dormatories. The boy was not thought to be a resident of the orphanage but was recognised by one of the children as being a local lad from the slums who often met up with the children to play. The ghouls have ruled out any involvemnt of Ms Del Orto in the matter and have released information suggesting that the sinister murder was due to the FOUL and TERRIBLE actions of cultists of the MUTILATED ONE! Ghoulish patrols have been seen searching the slums for evidence of the cultists involved and are thought to be getting closer to their goal!RIOTING ERUPTS IN SLUMS AND TRADE DISTRICT
(The Horizon Illuminator.) A BLOODY WAVE OF VIOLENCE has SWEPT the Slums and the Trade District centred on two BORDER REGIONS where MYSTERY TROUBLEMAKERS have erected banners bearing INFLAMMATORY SLOGANS! These banners bear two messages: one says "DEATH TO THE DEMON CRACE!", the other "TUCO TO GO!". They are believed to be ALCHEMICAL PRODUCTS: so-called BURNING BANNERS, infused with essence of FIRE, designed to PROVOKE all who see them. The Columna are especially popular in the Slums, whilst Eric Tuco is a respected community figure in the Trade District; the scene was thus set for BLOODY CONFLICT between enraged supporters and opponents of Crace and Tuco! The banners were eventually TORN DOWN by rioters, yet the violence looks set to CONTINUE FOR DAYS; the Horse Guard have been deployed and are keeping the rioters contained in the border area, and are fully willing to BUST HEADS if they need to in order to contain the rioters. Make sure to buy the next issue of the ILLUMINATOR, where we'll have full RIOT STATISTICS, including the number of CASUALTIES on both sides, the level of PROPERTY DAMAGE, and our RIOT CRITICS' REVIEWS. Who will be MAN OF THE RIOT?Local Beauty Mia Delan Killed By Imperialists
(The Horizon Tribune.) Another casualty of Imperialist violence today, as the house of physician Mia Delan became the target of an Imperialist bombing. Ghouls searching the ashes say that Ms. Delan's body was too heavily damaged by the explosion to be of use to them.The cell claiming responsibility, the Sons of Caline, have released a statement with characteristic Imperialist incoherence. It warns of further atrocities to come, including a purge against "all those who would strike down the Emperor's heir".
With tension in the city already coming to a head after the recent Columna-Cartel riots, one has to wonder after this latest occurence how much longer Horizon can last before the grim spectre of martial law, previously thought to be past, descends upon us all.
Lasinian People's Party Launch Crackdown Against Narcotics
(The Horizon Tribune.) Reports out of Lasinia suggest that the new government - dominated by the Lasinian People's Party - has launched a crackdown against drug smugglers.Many of our sources within the diplomatic community have suggested that this is an attempt by the LPP to prove that they respect the rule of law. The LPP themselves have accused Lasinian drug networks of collaborating with "international reactionary forces hoping to undermine the revolution", including "a cabal of international Jurican traders operating out of Horizon", a clear reference to the so-called Cartel.
Coming so soon after the purge within the Party of Comrade Lucius Hespercles and his allies - most of whom were accused of belonging to a Lasinian bandit gang - it is clear that the LPP regards organised crime as being a serious threat to the revolutionary reinvention of society.
"Beggars' Union" Identified as Cult of Mutilated One; Ghouls Take Action
(The Horizon Tribune.) Underworld and government elements have, it seems, long been aware of the presence in Horizon's underworld of a professional organisation of beggars, controlling begging in the city and trading in information. Sources close to this paper acknowledge, though, that there was no suspicion whatsoever until recently that the group served as a cover for a vast cult of the Mutilated One. Such, though, was the horrifying tale told by representatives of the Ghoul Circle in open court three days ago. Presenting the evidence of numerous ritually mutilated corpses found by the Ghouls to have been murdered by various beggars and linked to the myterious and horrifying God known as the Mutilated One, the Ghoul Circle requested legal backing for a city-wide purge of Mutilated One cultists and Beggars. Their position was confirmed by the Loyal Order of Hounds, and the results have been seen in the streets and subways in the last few days; members of the so-called "Beggars of Horizon" have been arrested and executed or killed on the spot. The use of magic against Ghoul Hunters seems to confirm their allegations...Work Begins On Del Orto School
(The Horizon Tribune.) Yesterday Work began on a brand new school for the children of Horizon, thanks to extremely effective fundraising by Rosie Del Orto, 28, daughter of the fabulously wealthy Duke Del Orto. The Del Orto School for the Poor and Disadvantaged is intended to be funded entirely by generous donations and the interest gained from the substantial amount donated by Miss Del Orto, so that it can become the first of a new breed of school that working parents can afford to send their children to.RIDGWAY ON TRIAL!!!
(The Illuminator.) The staff of the Horizon Illuminator were shocked to hear that JAMES RIDGWAY, reporter for FRIENDLY RIVAL publication the HORIZON POST had been put on trial in Lasinia by the Lasinian People’s Party for alleged counter-revolutionary tendencies. Naturally the Horizon Illuminator was willing to vouch for Mr. Ridgway's character, knowing that a reporter of his talent could not possibly be capable of commiting such crimes. The misunderstanding was swiftly cleared up, however, as feisty freedom fighter and newly appointed minister for fine arts CLIA ROSTO defended Mr. Ridgway stating clearly that he was too "educationally and emotionally defunct" to be the one responsible for these crimes. Narrowly escaping a sentence of DEATH Ridgway returned to his home in Horizon, exiled from Lasinia, presumablt to continue with the same high quality writing the Post has always enjoyed.[Accompanying this article is an artists rendition of the court case depicting Clia Rosto in a revealing dress addressing a weedy and snivelling Ridgeway.]
Anarchy At the Palace
(The Horizon Tribune.) A disturbing breakdown of civil order occurred last night at the seat of the city government as overlapping (and, indeed, mutually antagonistic) riots broke out at the gates of the Imperial Palace.Sources in the Palace Guard have confirmed that events began with an incident out of a penny dreadful, the veracity of which has yet to be confirmed. A raggedly dressed and cowled figure approached the gates of the palace; upon being challenged by the guards, it threw back the cowl to reveal the somewhat decayed features of the erstwhile Count Mobius Columna. If the accounts of the incident are to be believed, the cause of the gentleman's disappearance were all too apparent in a gaping neck wound in which maggots could be seen crawling. Mr. Columna, if it was he, proceeded to call out that Versinya, Lady of the Life Eternal, would soon descend in all her wonder and claim the city of Horizon. While the guards stood aghast at these obscenities, the abomination's former sister, Crace Columna, arrived on the scene at some speed and struck him down, severing his head. Far from being the end of the incident, though, this simply signalled the outbreak of chaos, as a number of individuals rushed both Miss Columna and the palace gate, screaming slogans in support of Versinya and her allegedly imminent rule over the city. As the palace guards tried to fend off this incursion, an apparently coincidental "worker's rally" against Grey technology arrived at the Palace gates, apparently also with violent intent.
The result was a protracted three-way struggle between cultists, so-called workers, and the Palace Guard, that required much of the Palace Guard's strength to repel. The source of these disturbances remains somewhat mysterious, since no known worker's group is running an organised campaign against Grey Technology, and all Versinya cultists were killed or driven out of the city earlier this year.
STOP PRESS: Imperial Palace Demolished By Explosions - Imperialists Terrorists Blamed
(The Horizon Tribune.) Earlier editions of today's Tribune reported on the riot outside the Imperial Palace of anti-Grey Order demonstrators and Versinya cultists. No sooner had we gone to press that we received reports that the riots had ceased, following the destruction of the Imperial Palace.Partway through the riot, many witnesses reported hearing a muffled rumbling noise - like a small underground explosion, or series of explosions. This is believed to be an initial explosion intending to undermine the foundations of the Imperial Palace. No important governmental figures were hurt - they were evacuated shortly after the riot began - but several were injured. Some eyewitnesses report seeing injured Columna family retainers exiting the sewers at around this time. We have now learned that after this explosion the Imperial Palace was evacuated through various hidden exits so that Mayoral Legions patrols could sweep the Palace for other explosives.
There was, indeed, other explosives. Just over half an hour after the initial explosions, a series of much larger blasts rang out - explosions large enough to be heard across Horizon - and the core of the Palace was blown apart, the outer regions of the Palace promptly collapsing thanks to the architectural damage. Casualties amongst the rioters were reportedly heavy; no word has yet been received on whether the Mayoral Legion patrols were able to escape in time. We hope to have further details for the next issue of the Tribune.
Betram Lanthaw Dies
(The Town Crier.) It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Lord Bertram Lanthaw at the age of 87 of a heart attack at his home on Sycamore Square in the Noble district. He was found at 4pm this afternoon in his study by a servant, however it is thought that by this point he had been dead for a couple of hours. He was found clutching a piece of paper on which was written the word "Ontbroken". An investigation by the Ghouls has suggested no foul play saying that the heart of the 87-year-old was fairly weak already. Best known for his role in the Provisional Government 35 years ago, Bertram Lanthaw was one of the original signatories of the Last Treaty which saw the end of the war and the beginning of the fourth age. Unlike his contemporary Davrim Maellor, who committed suicide shortly after the treaty was signed, Lord Bertram went on to live most of his retirement in obscurity.Janus Voorash Explodes In the Sky
(The Horizon Tribune) The wanted criminal Janus Voorash was spotted last night around dusk running from the Watchdogs, led by High Commissioner Griggs. The chase led them to the city walls where Voorash was able to escape using a set of clockwork wings it was thought he had hidden there for just such an eventuality. Members of the Flying Squad gave chase but were unable to catch up with his superior wings. It is thought that he may have modified his wings to allow him to travel faster than standard wings usually allow, thus preventing his capture. He was observed to be moving over the Vegdarbarran wilderness, but witnesses report that Mr Voorash suddenly exploded without warning over the Vegdarbarran steppe. This has been confirmed by Watchdog observers from the city who were following the pursuit through spyglasses and reported seeing the falling wreckage lit up against the dark sky. The wreckage was recovered sortly afterwards, however it had been so badly burned that only fragments could be discerned. The twisted metal mechanisms of the wings - all that could be recovered - have suggested incredible heats involved in the explosion. Voorash was not seen abandoning his wings prior to the explosion and it is believed that he perished in the heat during the crash.MYSTERY VANDALS STRIKE MAGIC DISTRICT
(The Horizon Post.) Reports have come in of CHAOS in the MAGIC QUARTER as VANDALS target alchemical laboratories, SMASHING all the glassware and releasing DANGEROUS ESSENCES in the process! BURSTS OF FIRE, mysterious WHIRLWINDS, flashes of STARLIGHT and other anomalies have been reported, and the ARCANUM GUARD has declared the district a NO-GO AREA until it can be cleaned up! Registered Alchemists are believed to be preparing a PETITION to COLONEL ZERO, asking him to REDUCE the cost of alchemy licences so that the alchemists can afford to REPLACE THEIR EQUIPMENT and IMPROVE THEIR SECURITY!Mysterious Graffiti Vandal Strikes Columna Mansion
(The Horizon Tribune.) A curious coda to the recent legal battles, false revelations and family drama that have centred on the Columna estate in recent days appeared this morning. During the night, person or persons unknown had scrawled bizarre and possibly libellous mottos on the outer walls of the estate. The graffiti read:
"RESURRECTION THROUGH INSURRECTION"
"THE PROPHECY! THE PROPHECY!"
"ALL HAIL THE BEGGAR KING"
and, in different and rather smaller writing,
Death of a God
(The Horizon Tribune.) Strange and frightening times in Horizon. Though we at the Tribune cannot imagine any of our readers can have failed to notice the events of the last few days, we feel it our duty to try to put those events in some kind of order.As has been reported elsewhere, those knowledgable in the arcane arts had speculated that the silent and archaically dressed warrior sighted putting beggars to the sword in city during the last two weeks was in fact Cassius, the notorious legendary avatar of Versinya. Rumour in the Magic Ghetto had it that the runic circle being constructed on a cleared site in the Imperial Ruins by sorcerers in the service of the Church of the Intercessor and the Arcanum Guard was part of an attempt to deal with this threat to the city.
Such speculation was dramatically confirmed two days ago when residents of the Slums were disturbed by a duel of the greatest ferocity. Although this paper has previously cast doubt on the credentials of the individual claiming to be Baron Montague, it is beyond doubt that, real or false, he has earned himself a place in history. The Baron was seen in close battle with the mysterious warrior, now postively identified by his many gaping and maggot-infested wounds and stench of putrefaction as Cassius. It seems that that Baron was able to force the vile Avatar into the deserted section of the Imperial Ruins, and thence to the prepared circle. A frightened eyewitness reported that as soon as the duellists entered the circle, a group of sorcerers stepped out from surrounding buildings and began to chant. The Baron was able to stagger, clearly exhausted, from the circle, but the Avatar was seen held in place. It has been reported that he began to laugh, harshly and maliciously, as the chant went on. Some were suprised to see Rosie del Orto, the noted physician and orphanage director, apparently overseeing operations.
For some six hours thereafter, the sorcerers maintained their ritual. It was around the end of this time that your correspondent arrived on the scene, in time to witness such sights as I have never seen before and pray every night that I never will again. We enter into the realms of what this paper has traditionally regarded as borderline fantasy. However, both I and thousands of witnesses can testify to the truth of the events described here.
At the sixth hour of the ritual, the midafternoon sky turned dark over Horizon. Across the city, wounds thought long healed burst open and began to putrefy. Hordes of flies burst forth from the sewers. Fresh food and newly butchered meat erupted with maggots. Children were stillborn, and corpses lurched and turned over like sleepers in the hands of the Ghouls. Those present at the ritual saw a dark cloaked woman with flesh clearly in an advanced state of decay approach, accompanied by shambling, rotting forms of men. There seemed little doubt that this was Versinya, the Putrified Queen. I can only admit to the deepest terror in looking on her. When she spoke, I wished only to be as far away as possible. "Why have you caged my faithful servant?" demanded the Goddess. One man stood forth to answer: Baron Montague. "The only thing we want for your servant is his freedom, goddess of filth. What we are really here for is you." With those words, Baron Montague drew his sword and plunged it into the chest of Versinya, Goddess of Decay.
Your correspondent will be haunted by the scream that followed every time I fall asleep. She seemed to find new lungs with every blow the Baron Montague struck to her body, until at long last the noise stopped, with rats rushing forward to feast on the corpse of the fallen God. I witnessed Cassius smiling, once, before plunging his sword into his chest and joining his former mistress in the arms of oblivion. At the same time, the darkness lifted from the sky.
Once more, it seems, the city of Horizon has slain a God. Myth tells us that in times gone by we were saved by the wrath of the gods by the Intercession; now, perhaps, another such miracle will be required in the present day. Certainly, the Church of the Intercessor hopes this is the case. Whilst the Last Message of the Intercessor condemns prayer as a vain and foolish acts, many are nonethless praying for deliverance from the consequences of these events. Your correspondent joins those prayers, and fears for the future.
Philip and Joanna Daynann Killed
(The Horizon Tribune.) The Daynann business empire - long-rumoured to have seedy connections to the criminal underworld - was thrown into turmoil lately following the deaths of Philp and Joanna Daynann. Their bodies - along with those of some of Joanna's bodyguards - were found burning in a rubbish bin in the Slums late last night. The Ghouls have expressed concern that the bodies were disposed of in this way, but were able to glean a small number of details about their deaths: they allege that Philip Daynann attacked Joanna, and was killed by one of her bodyguards after landing the killing blow. The surviving bodyguard is nowhere to be found, and is believed to be residing in a safehouse in the Slums; the Watchdogs have requested that he come forward to testify about the case, but he has so far - through intermediaries - refused.With the Daynann family being extinct - except for the exiled Leanne Daynann - the future of their business interests is in doubt. However, inside sources have told us that the Kellor family have made overtures towards senior Daynann aides, and it is expected that the Kellor will absorb most of the Daynann's interests.
Plague In Slums - Mayoral Legions Cordon Off Area
(The Horizon Tribune.) The outbreak of plague in the Slums has now reached its peak, as the Mayoral Legions were forced to set up areas of quarantine in the area. The lower half of the distrinct is now restricted as a no-go area, with the exception of members of the ghoul circle on duty. Upon visiting one of the makeshift drop in areas for sufferers, this reporter was provided with a face mask and led into the facility. The state of the sufferers is horrific as the plague, characterised by outbreaks of boils and rotting of the sufferers extremities, takes its toil. One small child, not older than five, was blinded by the accumulation of pus in his eyes and had to be constantly supported by cushions to prevent the boils lining his throat from choking him to death.Physicians and sorcerors alike are researching ways to ease the suffering of the victims and to find a cure for the plague, as yet to no avail. The disease is notable for the slowness of taking effect, manifesting at first merely as normal cold or flu symptoms. The disease is at its most contagious the second day in and is believed to be passed on through physical contact and airbourne vapours. The government's health office suggests reporting to a physician or Priest of the Intercessor immediately if you suffer any of these symptoms, no matter how mild. To reduce risk it is recommended that you avoid infected areas and contact with potentially contagious inviduals.
The government has issued the official statement:
We are currently looking into the source of this disease, which is believed to be related to poor maintainance of the drainage system in the locality. We have managed to keep the spread contained and do not believe there is any risk to the populace of the city in general. Nevertheless, we recommend you consult the department of health’s brouchure on proper sanitary practices.
Full Martial Law Declared
(The Horizon Tribune.) In the wake of a chaotic two months, which have seen attacks on the Colonies, the destruction of the Imperial Palace, widespread rioting and plague, Colonel Zero has declared full martial law across Horizon and its territories. The following statement has been issued:
A state of full martial law has been declared. I have the support of my entire Privy Council in this. Recent terrorist outrages, and the disease which is afflicting the Slums, have led us to conclude that there is a major threat to the nation which can only be countered with a show of force from the nation's government.The Watchdogs are henceforth relieved of their duties, although Watchdogs may apply to join the Legions temporarily to help enforce martial law; such Watchdogs will be subjected to stringent checks and will have to show the level of discipline expected of a legionnary. Until full martial law is lifted, all criminal cases will be heard by courts martial. All Mayoral Legion patrols will be empowered to carry out on-the-spot court martials for any crimes, and to deploy the death penalty immediately. The standard of proof for these impromptu courts will be lax; the Mayoral Legions are encouraged to arrest, convict and execute any individuals they have reason to suspect of being involved with illegal activity. They are encouraged to use as much force as they feel is necessary to apprehend criminals, prevent crimes in the process of being committed, dissuade individuals from committing crimes in the near future, and impress the general populace.
A curfew will be in effect from dawn until dusk. Anyone in the streets after curfew unauthorised will be subject to military justice. The curfew will be waived on Horizon's Day to allow people to celebrate. The Mayoral Legions will be empowered to make unannounced house-to-house searches and disperse any unauthorised gathering - with the exception of Horizon's Day parties - with lethal force.
I am very disappointed that things have come to this state of affairs. Certain individuals, however, have undertaken actions which have caused a national emergency, and steps had to be taken. I hope to be able to lift this state of martial law soon. Remember: the innocent have nothing to fear from the government.
Reports have already reached us of civilians cheering the Mayoral Legions as they perform on-the-street executions of much-feared local criminals.
TOWER OF STARLIGHT APPEARS IN DOCKS!
STAR DAIMONS WALK THE STREETS!
ALCHEMIST ROBERTA PETREL MISSING, PRESUMED DEAD!
(The Horizon Post.) CHAOS erupted on the streets of the Docks today, as a bizarre TOWER COMPOSED OF STARLIGHT burst from the ground and rose up to the heavens!!!Reports are currently sketchy, but indicate that the STARS - the malign Power associated with LAW and CHANGELESSNESS - have CLAIMED an area of HORIZON as their embassy to the WORLD OF MEN!!! BURSTING FORTH from the tower came all manner of strange DAIMONS OF THE STARS: bizarre KNIGHTS made entirely of a SILVERY METAL. A squad of these DAIMONS have headed straight for the regions near the SLUMS where RIOTING was still taking place, and CUT a BLOODY SWATHE through the looters! The ARCANUM GUARD and IMPERIAL LEGIONS are currently FORMULATING A PLAN for dealing with these UNWORLDLY MONSTERS; meanwhile, investigators near the TOWER have discovered that it appears to have BURST from the remains of an UNDERGROUND ALCHEMICAL LABORATORY. Upon investigation, this has been revealed to be owned by ALCHEMIST ROBERTA PETREL, who has not been seen since the ERUPTION! Citizens of Horizon are advised by the CHURCH OF THE INTERCESSOR to STEER CLEAR of any daimons they may see WALKING THE STREETS.
[OOC: This tower of starlight is now clearly visible throughout all of Horizon, and does indeed extend as far up as you can see.]
COLUMNA THUGS TAINTED BY STARLIGHT!
(The Horizon Post.) Reports from the Docks indicated that a SMALL ARMY of Columna thugs were spotted leaving the scene of the ERUPTION of the TOWER OF THE HEAVENS, as it is becoming known. The ruffians, normally known for their BICKERING and IN-FIGHTING, were seen MARCHING in perfect step towards the COLUMNA MANSION.When our reporter on the street stopped one man to question him, the ENTIRE ARMY turned towards him and said, in PERFECT UNISON: "We have to speak to Count Alric. There was an accident."
On the Grapevine
Cartel Dealers Grumble At Increased Kickbacks
"It's not the same any more.""Tell me about it. It's such a strain on the pockets. The previous management never demanded this much of a cut."
"I hear Tuco's been throwing his money around though - and someone's got to pick up the slack and fill the coffers again."
"Yeah, and it's always us who has to do it. How's an honest trader meant to make any money?"
"Honest? You?"
"Ok, fair point, but you know what I mean..."
Love-Dust?
"Have you heard? The Cartel have started dealing this new drug. It's this dust, kind of like Maidensbud, but it's got a lot more kick to it.""Maidensbud? Doesn't that make you fall in love?"
"No, no, Maidensbud just makes you feel happy and carefree. It feels like you're in love if you don't know what real love's like, but it's just the drugs making you think that - nine times outta ten it just leads to mindless sex. This stuff, though... it's different. One hit and I was there, man. When I was with Blue Nora, it wasn't just pointless sex - there was real feeling behind it, not just the drugs."
"But Nora's Vinnie the Bastard's girl... oh. That's why you've got the black eye."
"Right. If you want to try the stuff, try it when you're around the right people."
Marid Regains Control of the Cartel
Listen, siddown and shut up. There's been another shakeup in the higher ranks. Yeah, yeah, I know, you were only just getting used to working for Tuco, but that's over now, see? It looks like Asrar Hazar and a bunch of other Marid loyalists were only pretending to switch sides. That shit that went down at the Tuco place, with those whores? Only helped their cause. They were able to win over most of Tuco's high-ups, assassinate the others - except for James Ridgway, he was all caught up in Lasinia and so he couldn't put a nice spin on the Nikolai raid. Real propaganda failure. So we're working for Mr Marid again now, you understand? Don't be fooled if you see Tuco walkin' about and breathing - he's a dead man.Three Families Truce Broken
"Psst… Did you hear that Crace Columna’s gone and done it now?""Oh?"
"The Daynann lot are really pissed off at the Columna, they say they were responsible for bumping off Joanna."
"Well… I hear that Joanna wasn’t the most ameniable of women out there…"
"Yeah, but not only that they didn’t give her proper notice before doing away with her. Philip went in and started on her just after giving her the Silvers and now he’s dead too."
"Well at least they gave her warning."
"That’s the thing, though, you’re s’possed to give 24 hours after you hand the Silvers over and the Families draw a pretty hard line on these things."
"Well I can see an in-gang war a’brewing."
In the Small Ads
SURPLUS GOODS
(The Horizon Post.) Due to a recent stocktaking we are happy to offer you your chance to own your very own pair of mint-condition, barely used second-hand wings as seen in skylarking.If you are interested in owning your pair of wings then please speak to my colleague at the Riverview on the night of the Moon Truce. They will be wearing a White Carnation.
Special Delivery
Most of the Riverview regulars - including all the player characters - receive a delightful present over the turn… a hideously mutilated child. Clutched in the bloody stubs where his fingers once were is a love note which reads:Violets are Blue,
Roses are Red.
It’s a City Called Horizon!
'Nuff Said.