The Silverscale Reader (Historical Record)

[Shellcaster]

A historical record of the two published issues of the Silverscale Reader, produced by the Merchant's League in the spring and summer of 1349.

[Shellcaster]

EDITION 1
CHES 1349

The Silverscale Reader is a monthly general interest reader published through the Merchant's League. Its founder and editor-in-chief is Aedesius Silverscale. The Reader, a series of bound broadsheets, is sold for five silver pieces a copy (which is about the cost of a dinner out or a winter blanket). Copies can be purchased in Baldur's Gate, and at the Friendly Arm Inn, but have not yet spread to other settlements.

The Reader covers twelve broad categories intended to keep its audience up-to-date and culturally informed, including official announcements, local news, upcoming events, a weather report, an economic review, a monthly personality profile (sometimes with an interview), the obituaries of important people in the region, a help wanted section, a marketplace for goods and services, a section for creative writing, travel trivia, and a gossip column.

A N N O U N C E M E N T S

FIRST ISSUE

Welcome to the first edition of The Silverscale Reader! This reader, produced on behalf of the Merchant's League, has a simple mission: It exists to keep you informed about the issues that matter to you. Culture, news, and even gossip awaits you in each exciting new issue, and we hope that you will support us in producing future releases.

Those with interesting news or rumors, original stories or poems, lore or trivia, or similarly good material for publication should contact the Reader's editor-in-chief, Aedesius Silverscale, at the Merchant's League building in Baldur's Gate.

WANTED: HELLSTORM PIRATES

The Council of Four has issued a bounty of one thousand gold for the capture of any of the pirates affiliated with the "Hellstorm pirates." A ten thousand gold bounty has been put out for the capture of the pirate leader, Kalma Hellstorm. If you have any information relating to these notorious pirates, please contact the Flaming Fist.

MISSING PERSON: DANTE REYES

Last seen about six months ago in the city of Murann, in Amn, Dante Reyes is around 27 or 28 years old. He is five foot seven with dark brown hair and green eyes. He has a slender, wiry build with tanned skin. His personality has been described as friendly and amiable, and his vocal range is that of a tenor. He is particularly skilled at putting others at ease, and is known to carry an heirloom--an ebony dagger.

If you have any information regarding this man please contact Amberly Hall at the White Mask Theater in Baldur's Gate.

S W O R D - C O A S T - N E W S

THE FALL OF TRIEL

Triel has fallen to an orcish war band. The orcs responsible for the attack are said to be survivors of the once vast black orc army that threatened the Sword Coast through most of last year.

Although Triel had several days to prepare for the attack, the assorted groups that answered their call for aid were by all accounts disorganized and lacking in military discipline. By this writer's reports, there was no commanding officer in charge--and there was not enough time to erect adequate fortifications.

The Order of the Silver Rose, the Order of the Radiant Heart, the Kraak Helzak dwarves, the Doron Amar and En Dharasha Everae elves, and even members of one of the local druidic circles, were present for the fighting, supported by a small contingent of the Flaming Fist and a mercenary company from Soubar.

Meeting the orcs in open combat, the coalition forces were said to have had a promising start, breaking the initial charge; but when the Soubar mercenaries betrayed the defenders from behind, the coalition found itself between a rock and a hard place and was chaotically forced from the field.

The orcs were able to occupy Triel after a brief massacre, where the turncoat mercenaries were brutally slain. Death tolls have not been released, but dozens are said to have perished in the fighting. Fortunately, many of the residents of Triel had been evacuated prior to the attack. They remain displaced, however, while the Council of Four considers how to respond to the loss of a town that some have described as "the bread basket of the Sword Coast."

PIRATES ATTACK ULGOTH'S BEARD

As though last month's barbarian incursion was not bad enough, Ulgoth's Beard recently suffered a pirate raid. The pirates attacked at night from the sea, and hit the small fishing village hard. Lighting buildings on fire and setting off explosives, the pirates generated a great deal of noise and confusion, then abducted several villagers back to sea before an effective counterattack could be mounted by the village's militia forces.

According to a ransom note left on the scene, the Hellstorm pirates took responsibility for the heinous attack, and were demanding 5,000 gold in ransom per captive.

"It's terrible," said one fisherman. "We're just trying to make it out here, and now they expect us to raise thousands of gold to free our friends and family? Where are we supposed to get it? We've been sacked twice in less than a month!"

Fortunately, one of the villagers was able to raise the money in the face of these doubts. A local fisherman named Aozeph Kelnar secured the freedom of the hostages by paying the ransom in full. A brave deed by any measure, and a brave man by all accounts.

The Council of Four has issued a bounty on the pirates, at one thousand gold pieces a head. A ten thousand gold bounty has been placed on the pirate captain, Kalma Hellstorm. If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of these dangerous pirates, please contact the Flaming Fist.

Baldur's Gate has had past incidents with the so-called Hellstorm pirates, and according to this reporter's sources the pirates even played a role in the war between Amn and Baldur's Gate--on the side of Amn.

CULTISTS IN NASHKEL

Cultists have crippled ore production in Nashkel by killing or abducting numerous miners, as well as most of the expeditionary forces sent in to clear them out.

Although Nashkel has not asked for assistance from Baldur's Gate with their problem, the Nashkel Trade Emporium is currently hiring adventurers of all creeds and nationalities to assist them in clearing out the mines.

According to at least one source the cultists worship Moander, a dark god of corruption and decay that was said to have been imprisoned by the elves of Myth Drannor more than a thousand years ago. More recently, though, there have been reports of demonic attacks in and around Nashkel as well.

It may well be that the two problems are related, but any travelers in the whereabouts of Nashkel should take appropriate precautions.

HARVESTER DEVIL DESTROYED?

An active harvester devil by the name of Urah is believed to have been banished back to the Nine Hells by a scholar of Candlekeep and several adventurers. According to reports, the devil was using imps and other lesser devils, as well as a disembodied voice, to tempt mortals into making foul deals and pacts with him in exchange for their souls.

It goes without saying that no matter how desperate you are, Faustian pacts are always more trouble than they're worth. Any devil or demon sighting should be immediately reported to local authorities. Do not ever attempt to engage a fiend alone.

A CHANGING OF THE GUARD?: TROOP MOVEMENTS IN AMN AND BALDUR'S GATE

Amn has recently recalled a sizable portion of its northern army. According to reports, they are marching south towards the Amnian capital, Athkatla, where the nation's anonymous leaders--the Council of Six--appear to be responding to the worry that the Tethyrian Civil War might pour over into Amn.

The Amnian presence in Nashkel and especially Beregost lessens at a time when Baldur's Gate's army, the elite company of soldiers and mercenaries widely known as the Flaming Fist, also seems to be readjusting its priorities. With their presence in the Wood of Sharp Teeth quite insignificant since the end of the war with the black orcs, they are now also recalling their soldiers from the Trade Way South, and the Friendly Arm Inn.

The Flaming Fist appear to be shoring up the defenses of Baldur's Gate itself instead. It is speculated that this is in response to the orcish occupation of Triel, but the Council of Four has not released an official statement explaining its change in focus.

U P C O M I N G - E V E N T S

SPRING EQUINOX (CHES 19)

Ches 19 marks the vernal equinox, when day and night will be equally long, and when the spring season will begin anew. It is a holy day for many religions, as days grow longer and warmer moving forward. The "official" beginning of spring is still more than a month away, however, as celebrated annually with the Greengrass Festival.

THE BUDDING (CHES 19)

The Budding is a joyful celebration of new life, observed by the followers of the elven god Rillifane Rallathil. It is celebrated through dance and song and preceded by an extended period of fasting. A ritual hunt of an ancient and noble hart is undertaken on this day, from which the venison serves to break the fast of the Leaflord's faithful. This ritual is said to honor Rillifane's bounty and to remind his followers of the natural cycle of life that plays out beneath the Leaflord's boughs.

DANCE OF SWIRLING SWORDS (CHES 19)

The Dance of Swirling Winds is a semiannual festival held on the vernal and autumnal equinoxes to celebrate the changing seasons and to honor the elven goddess Aerdrie Faenya, who is also called the Winged Mother. The winds are always strong on such days no matter where Aerdrie's followers gather. Celebrants make offerings of beautiful feathers and join in an aerial ballet danced to the music of wind instruments played by some of the participants. Those who lack wings or magical means of flight are said to be able to ride the wind as a gift of the goddess herself. For the duration of the formal ceremony, recipients of Aerdrie's blessing are rumored to be tethered by long ropes to others who can command their own aerial movements. Once the dance breaks up, however, wind dancers, as they are known, are swept across the forest canopy for miles in a breathtaking flight before settling gently in a sylvan glade.

FLEETSWAKE (CHES 21-CHES 30)

Fleetswake is an annual, Waterdeep-based festival celebrating the sea, the sea trade, and the gods of the sea. It spans the last tenday of Ches, and includes boat races, the Shipwright's Ball at the Shipwright's House, and guild-sponsored galas at the Copper Cup festhall. While Baldur's Gate does not officially celebrate the days-long festival, many of its sailing population hold more private celebrations in its honor.

GRAND OPENING: THISTLE (CHES 24)

The White Mask Theater will be presenting a play entitled Thistle this month, which follows the quest of the eponymous--and quite unlikely--hero, Thistle, as he seeks to free a damsel from distress. Written and directed by Herran Hymn, it stars Telia Navra, Tom Carter, and Dominic De La Rosa (in the role of Thistle), with supporting roles for Amaer Kellern, Amberly Hall, and the elven dancer, Nëa. The play is being produced by White Rose Imports, in conjunction with the Nashkel Trade Emporium, and, in this reporter's opinion, is very much worth seeing. You will be kicking yourself if you miss this one, theatergoers--especially as entry is free!

[ OOC Note: The play is scheduled to open on Sunday, March 24th, at 4:00 PM EST (16:00 UTC-4). It will be presented inside the White Mask Theater. ]

THE LAST STORM (CHES 24)

The Last Storm, an Aurilian holy day that's meant as a fond farewell to winter, is to be held on the 24th of Ches this year. Irini Valkyrian, a senior priestess of Auril in the region, will be overseeing winter's last hurrah at the temple of Auril near Nashkel as evening sets upon the mountains. Because an important part of this ceremony consists of producing a blizzard, interested spectators are encouraged to bundle up if attending.

[ OOC Note: This event is scheduled to begin on Sunday, March 24th, at 3:00 PM EST (20:00 UTC+1). It will be held at the temple of Auril, near Nashkel. ]

THE SHATTERING (CHES 26)

The Shattering is a ceremony conducted by those faithful to Valkur the Mighty, the sailor's friend. It is a holy day that occurs once per year as winter thaws, though the exact date varies from year to year. The festival is held to mark the end of winter and the beginning of the sailing season in the North. Valkur is said to communicate to his High Captains the exact date of the festival each year, and it often varies from city to city. The Shattering itself is marked by the unfurling of many new sails throughout the port districts of coastal cities and the christening of at least one new ship that then departs for its maiden voyage crewed by Valkur's clergy. Baldur's Gate's Shattering is expected to be celebrated on the 26th day of Ches, this year.

FAIR SEAS FESTIVAL (CHES 30)

In Waterdeep, at the end of Fleetswake, is held the Fair Seas Festival. It is a ceremony dedicated to placating the Queen of the Depths, Umberlee, during which tithes are given by dropping coins--including those collected during Fleetswake by increasing the normal docking fee to 1 gold piece--into the deepest reaches of the harbor. Strong currents drag this wealth into Umberlee's Cache.

A similar, but much smaller, celebration will be held at the Temple of Umberlee in Baldur's Gate.

W E A T H E R - R E P O R T

As winter begins its retreat to the north, we can expect to see more rain throughout the Sword Coast, with scattered flurries and light snows. Snowmelt and moisture will make for muddy roads, so travelers and caravaners should plan for slow overland travel. Winter storms at sea will be subsiding shortly, if the priests of Valkur are to be believed, with this year's Shattering to be celebrated on the 26th.

With the break in last year's drought, many farmers are eager to begin planting again, and this month at least seems agriculturally promising. Many root-based crops are typically sown or planted in Ches, including potatoes, radishes, and turnips.

To the south, it continues to snow regularly in Nashkel, which itself will have a delayed spring thanks to its elevation and location. Snowmelt temperatures will ensure that any ice that forms over its river will be short-lived and thin, while the river itself will begin to rise with increased flooding from the mountains.

E C O N O M Y - W A T C H

ECONOMIC OVERVIEW

The economy of the Sword Coast still suffers from the war between Baldur's Gate and Amn, and its subsequent troubles with drought, orcs, and bandits. Taxes are still quite high, and the recent occupation of Triel threatens the food supply, even with local food production on the rise.

Trade between Baldur's Gate and Amn remains frosty, though efforts by the Nashkel Trade Emporium have gone to ensure that it is not entirely non-existent. The Amnian occupation of Beregost has, however, cut deeply into Baldurian access to the southern Trade Way, and overland trade has suffered because of it.

Overland trade to the east appears to be driven largely by Thayan interests, though trade to the north remains somewhat steady, if heavily harassed by bandits and orcs.

Sea and river trade is starting to flourish again, though it is still primarily controlled by northern interests. The Lords's Alliance has expressed occasional dissatisfaction with Baldur's Gate for its recent troubles, and how they have negatively impacted trade up and down the Sword Coast.

COMPANY PROFILES

THE MERCHANT'S LEAGUE: The Merchant's League has suffered several injuries in recent days, most recently with the loss of Triel and the murder of one of their merchants. Efforts at increasing road safety are underway, but the going is slow, and overland trade remains difficult. That being said, with the recent acquisition of a new director of shipping, in the form of the completely and totally unbiased editor of this Reader, the Merchant's League's prospects for sea trade are looking promising. (MERCHANT'S LEAGUE INVESTMENT VALUE SITTING AT -2)*.

THE CLEAR SKY TRADING COMPANY: Based out of Beregost, the Clear Sky Trading Company has been silent the past two or three months now. It may be that the downturn in trade between Baldur's Gate and Amn has undermined their position as a middleman, and run them out of business. (CLEAR SKY INVESTMENT VALUE SITTING AT -10).

THE NASHKEL TRADE EMPORIUM: The Nashkel Trade Emporium has recently acquired new management, but remains hobbled by the conditions of the mines in Nashkel. With ore as one of their primary trade products, it remains to be seen how long they will be able to remain in business while the mines stay closed. (N.T.E. INVESTMENT VALUE SITTING AT -4).

THE RED WIZARDS OF THAY: The Red Wizards have been keeping it low-key lately--apparently having lost their leader, which they call a "khazark," in recent months. While they maintain some influence with eastern trade, and still produce magical items for sale, their "withdrawal" has largely removed them from the public eye. The Enclave will continue to suffer so long as it lacks direction and a strong leader. (RED WIZARD INVESTMENT VALUE SITTING AT -5).

THE SEVEN SUNS TRADING COSTER: The Seven Suns have suffered heavily. Firmly rooted in providing the very cheapest in overland travel, the poor conditions of the roads and the upswing in bandits and monstrous raiders, have all but crippled their operations. Until relations with Amn improve, this company will continue to suffer setbacks as it tries to rely on trade here in the Western Heartlands and Waterdeep alone. (SEVEN SUNS INVESTMENT VALUE SITTING AT -6).

WHITE ROSE IMPORTS: White Rose Imports specializes in iron ore and exotic liquors, and has likewise been suffering on account of the trouble at the Nashkel mines. It focuses primarily on overland trade, and shares management with the Nashkel Trade Emporium in the person of James White. The two companies are likely to be bound together in fortune because of this. (WHITE ROSE INVESTMENT VALUE SITTING AT -3).

*: Note that a company's Investment Value is measured on a sliding scale from -10 to +10, with 0 representing a generally successful or typical business in a stable economy.

W H O ' S - W H O - O N - T H E - C O A S T

ALDETH SASHENSTAR

Aldeth Sashenstar, with Irlentree and Zorl Miyar, partly-owns and operates the Merchant's League--a fraternity of merchants dedicated to exploration, mutual aid, and economic growth. Born into Baldur's Gate's merchant aristocracy, Aldeth currently leads the wealthy Sashenstar merchant family. His family is known for their fleet, their mining concerns, and their textile wealth, and play an important role in much of the trade that comes through Baldur's Gate.

Sashenstar, a handsome man of middle age with reddish-brown hair and eyes, is said to be as wealthy as many a king, and almost as influential. Even so, his philanthropic deeds and interpersonal behavior suggest to others that he is also a man who respects others, no matter their station. A good man and an honest merchant are rare enough, but a good man and an honest, wealthy merchant? Sashenstar is truly one of a kind. A man we're all lucky to have here in Baldur's Gate.

O B I T U A R I E S

ARMAND DE'SARLEON

Armand De'sarleon, a nobleman recently employed by the Merchant's League, was fished out of the river late last month by the Flaming Fist. De'sarleon was a fairly private man during his short stay in Baldur's Gate, and it is unclear who he is survived by, if anyone.

The official cause of death is drowning, evidently caused by his stumbling off the pier after a bout of heavy drinking. Rumors hold that foul play may have been involved however: a tiefling was seen visiting his office hours before his death, and officers of the law were seen questioning fiend-touched throughout the city in the tenday following the incident . . .

H E L P - W A N T E D

NOW HIRING: EDITOR

The Silverscale Reader is looking for a full-time editor to assist with the design and production of the reader. If you have experience publishing, or simply a knack for design, you are encouraged to contact Aedesius Silverscale at the Merchant's League building in Baldur's Gate. Pay is competitive. A sample of your work is required.

[ OOC Note: I would love to have someone who would be willing to help me with the presentation of this monthly newspaper. I've done my best, but I am quick to admit that I know almost nothing about Photoshop, and have had to rely primarily on text and formatting. ]

NOW HIRING: PERSONAL CHEF

Aedesius Silverscale is hiring a personal chef to help prepare for and manage events, dinners, and gatherings. Special consideration is given to chefs who are capable of either producing a wide array of desserts, or who are capable of producing exotic, flavorful dishes. If interested in applying for the position, contact Aedesius Silverscale at the Merchant's League building in Baldur's Gate, or leave a letter of interest with Elad at the front desk.

CURRENTLY SEEKING: SAILORS AND MARINES

The Merchant's League is seeking experienced sailors and swordsmen to help staff and protect its merchant marine. Join the Merchant's League and see far-off Calimshan, the mysterious Moonshae Isles, the marvelous City of Splendors, and more! Only men and women of able body and age of consent will be considered for the merchant marine. Please contact Aldeth Sashenstar or Aedesius Silverscale if interested in signing on.

Do you already own or captain a ship? Would you like to earn a little extra money carrying goods or protecting a merchant ship? Please contact the Merchant's League.

WANTED: WRITERS

The Silverscale Reader wants you! If you have an interesting story, issue, or topic to bring to public attention, the Reader is willing to pay you for your work! Submissions can be left with Elad at the front desk of the Merchant's Leage building in Baldur's Gate's bustling harbor district.

The Reader is also hiring several full-time, investigative writers to seek out and publish information worth sharing! If interested in joining the Reader's full-time staff, please contact Aedesius Silverscale.

NOW HIRING: ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Aedesius Silverscale is seeking a discrete, competent assistant to aid him in administering his office and in keeping his calendar, to guard him against threats to his life or his safety, and to meet and converse with others on his behalf. Because this position comes with so many responsibilities, only highly qualified individuals will be considered for it. If interested, contact Aedesius Silverscale at the Merchant's League building in Baldur's Gate.

DO YOU NEED HELP WITH SOMETHING? ARE YOU HIRING?

Take out an advertisement with The Silverscale Reader for only 1,000 gold pieces per ad! Reach hundreds of potential employees through an authoritative medium, and find the best of the best for your personal needs or your business!

M A R K E T P L A C E

HAVE SOMETHING FOR SALE? LOOKING TO BUY?

Take out an advertisement with The Silverscale Reader for only 1,000 gold pieces per ad! Reach hundreds of potential customers, find the perfect item or piece of equipment, or advertise your merchant company! Contact Aedesius Silverscale at the Merchant's League building in Baldur's Gate for more information.

L O R E L O O K - C O R N E R

THE KING OF THE DEEP
(Dedicated to Amberly Hall and Nëa the Dancer)

Motes of soft moonlight pierce the sea's dusky gloom,
Casting a glow over the merfolk band.
Tension is high, for with dawn they'll face doom,
Yet they wait patiently, golden tridents in hand.

Beyond the kelp forest the kraken yet slumbers;
A tentacled terror who preys on their kind.
They'll overcome it with skill, they'll overcome it with numbers,
As together they take the foul beast from behind.

But lo! The kraken was ready, the kraken was waiting!
The merfolk they fall in great droves;
The water is red, and the trap's masterful baiting
Has all but ensured the beast reign of the coves.

We weep with great sadness, our dreams all asleep;
For we now hail the kraken as King of the Deep.

WANT TO BE PUBLISHED? SUBMIT YOUR WORK!

Do you have an original poem, story, or song that you'd like to share with the world? How about a painting or a drawing? Submit it to The Silverscale Reader! We accept all original works of art, and thoroughly enjoy them. If published in the Reader, you will even be paid for it! Please send or deliver all submissions to the Merchant's League building in Baldur's Gate.

T R A V E L - T R I V I A

ANAUROCH, THE GREAT DESERT

This month we take a look at the Anauroch (Ann-OAR-ock) Desert. Anauroch is a vast, barren wasteland that dominates the north-central region of Faerûn: a huge mass of steppeland, rocky wastes, and true desert that runs from the Uttermost North almost to the Lake of Dragons.

The Great Desert was not always so huge, and has grown remarkably in the recent millennia, driving wild men, goblins, and other evil creatures further south into the lands of men. Many human and elven kingdoms were swallowed by the wastes, and their ruins remain buried beneath the sands.

The area of the Great Desert is in fact a collection of different types of deserts, and includes hot sandy wastes similar to the Dust Desert of Raurin, rocky badlands with very sparse scrubs and no available water, basins filled with salt flats and prickly cacti, windswept sandstone mountains carved by wind into bizarre shapes, and polar steppes and icy wastes in the north which rival even those in Vaasa. In general, it is as inhospitable a place as can be found on the surface of Abeir-Toril.

Scholars cannot explain the reason for this advancing desert, but great magical or godlike powers may be involved. On the positive side, the encroaching desert has forced trade south through the bottleneck the wastes create, into the realms of Cormyr, Sembia, and the Dales, making these regions the wealthier for the loss of such great cities as Orolin.

V I L L A G E - S Q U A R E

This column is meant for reader questions and submissions, as well as general gossip, rumors, celebrity trivia, and personal connections. It is to be a public forum where readers can connect with writers and with other readers, publish opinion pieces, or share important beliefs and calls to action with the public at large.

Publication of submissions are at the staff's discretion, and we will not publish death threats, overly hateful rhetoric, or material that might be deemed illegal.

Please address all of your questions and submissions to Aedesius Silverscale at the Merchant's League building in Baldur's Gate.

[Shellcaster]

EDITION 2
MIRTUL 1349

The Silverscale Reader is a monthly general interest reader published through the Merchant's League. Its founder and editor-in-chief is Aedesius Silverscale. The Reader, a series of bound broadsheets, is sold for five silver pieces a copy (which is about the cost of a dinner out or a winter blanket). Copies can be purchased in Baldur's Gate, and at the Friendly Arm Inn, but have not yet spread to other settlements.

The Reader covers twelve broad categories intended to keep its audience up-to-date and culturally informed, including official announcements, local news, upcoming events, a weather report, an economic review, a monthly personality profile (sometimes with an interview), the obituaries of important people in the region, a help wanted section, a marketplace for goods and services, a section for creative writing, travel trivia, and a gossip column.

A N N O U N C E M E N T S

BE AWARE!: REPORT ALL UNUSUAL ACTIVITY TO THE AUTHORITIES

Given recent Zhentarim encroachment, a string of murders, and the troubling news traveling north from Beregost and Nashkel, The Silverscale Reader is encouraging all of its readers to be on the lookout for unusual behavior, strange people, or unknown magic.

See something that makes you uncomfortable? Bring it to the Flaming Fist or the City Watch. They are here to protect you, but can only do so when they are kept informed. Help keep Baldur's Gate safe: Report all unusual activity to the authorities!

S W O R D - C O A S T - N E W S

THE LIBERATION OF TRIEL

In a surprising development, the town of Triel has been liberated by a group that's said to be affiliated with the Black Network. Even as the region mustered in preparation to evict the Black Orcs from the embattled farming community, the Zhentarim arrived and set up fortifications behind the town. They proceeded to assault the orcish fortifications, routing the intruders and killing their chieftain, Gajutar Spearback.

The Zhentarim, an organization based out of the Moonsea region and gaining their name from their headquarters at Zhentil Keep, are not known for their altruism. Many analysts are openly wondering at their motivation in freeing the town.

Whatever their reasons, the people of Triel are grateful to have their homes and lands returned to them. As the refugees make their way back to the granary town, the future of Triel and the strength of the Black Network in the Fields of the Dead region remain uncertain. At least one thing seems clear, though: The threat posed by the Black Orcs is ended.

NASHKEL NIGHTMARES

Last Ches, The Silverscale Reader broke the story that cultists had crippled ore production in Nashkel. The mining community's fortunes have gone from bad to worse since then, however, with reported demon attacks, bouts of madness, and murder. The local Church of Helm and Nashkel government officials have denied that things are as bad as the rumors would have us believe, but when investigating the mining town, this reporter could quite easily sense the palpable dread that's cloaked the town and its people.

"Pike off," grunted a guard, when asked why the garrison had increased its patrols along the town's northern outskirts, and even the priests at the temple seemed cool to questioning. Local rumor has it that they recently lost one of their own. Adventurers have proven far more willing to speak of the strange happenings in Nashkel, with several claiming to have seen and fought with demons directly.

Whatever is happening in Nashkel, it does not appear to be safe for travel at this point in time. All who must visit the town should exercise extreme caution. Do not travel its roadways or foothills alone. Let us all hope whatever is behind the town's recent problems can be resolved swiftly, before the ore shortage can further damage the local economy.

KNIVES IN THE NIGHT: BALDURIAN MURDERS!

Since the murder of the merchant, Armand De'sarleon, last Ches, there have been four more high-profile murders in the city of Baldur's Gate. First, a nobleman was found dead in his room at the Blade and Stars Inn; next, a woman was killed behind Tymora's temple, across from the White Mask Theater; then the son of a merchant house was murdered behind the Hall of Wonders.

Most recently, a young woman was found dead in the harbor district. What makes the latest murder significant is that the woman did not go down without a fight, and that clues may have been found on her person indicating the identity of the murderer or murderers. The Flaming Fists were unwilling to discuss the ongoing investigation with The Silverscale Reader.

What could be behind this rash of murders? Are they related? Is there a serial killer on the loose? Could this be the work of a resurging cult of Bhaal? Whatever's the cause, it's advised that no one travel the streets at night unarmed and alone.

BEREGOST CRIME SPREE CONTINUES UNCHECKED

Beregost has suffered a crime spree, with a climbing murder rate, public muggings, and general bedlam unsettling the formerly peaceful town. "You can't go a tenday without someone picking your pocket, or stealing your horse, or harassing your wife," complained one farmer. But even as the Temple of the Morninglord attempts to reassert itself after the departure of most of the Amnian garrison, the crime spree continues.

Recently, even Lathander's temple suffered from vandalism, as dawn crept upon the city only to reveal the skull mark of Bhaal splashed across a temple wall in blood.

Never before have Beregost's people suffered from this much criminal activity, and some are beginning to question what's causing it. Did some criminal organization move into the village after the army's withdrawal? Could Amn itself be behind the crime wave, perhaps in an effort to remind the citizens of Beregost that they yet need Amn's protection?

How long will this crime be allowed to continue unchecked before the people of Beregost take action?

VIOLENCE IN THE HARBOR

Violence erupted in the harbor early this month, as two rival groups came to blows in the streets. The Flaming Fists, fast to respond to the out-and-out street war, were able to quickly subdue the two factions and end the combat. Numerous individuals were arrested and dragged in chains to the Fist's citadel, but no word has yet been released concerning the fates of those involved in the fighting.

The swift and effective response of the Flaming Fists served to bolster the public's faith in the mercenary group--whose reputation has suffered countless blows since the end of the Amn-Gate War--and restored a measure of public confidence in the Council of Four's ability to keep the peace.

It remains to be seen who the two fighting factions are associated with, but early indications seem to suggest that they were perhaps local thieves's guilds.

BANITE SENTENCED TO DEATH
(Written by Keila Merle)

Masses gathered outside the Flaming Fist Headquarters on the 17th of Mirtul to witness the hanging of a man accused of being a Banite, a warlock, and a Zhentarim spy. Duke Eltan seemed satisfied at justice being dealt. The sentence symbolizes a strike against three enemies, and people are pleased at seeing the threats being dealt with. Yet voices are raised to question the fairness of the trail. Precisely what influence did the crowd have, and was the man really all that he was accused of? Only Tyr knows the true answer.

A NEW GUIDE OF CANDLEKEEP

Candlekeep, that hollowed repository of knowledge set apart from the rest of the Sword Coast by self-induced isolation, is said to have elected a new Guide after its former Guide, Laitae Lafreth, retired from the office.

The new Guide is said to be an extremely young woman named Lillith Azrael. The Silverscale Reader will attempt to interview the enigmatic new public figure for next month's edition, and thereby discern her intentions for the monastery.

Will the new, young Guide make for a more open community? How will someone so young handle such an important position? Find out next month!

U P C O M I N G - E V E N T S

THE BIRTHING (MIRTUL 25)

Hathor, or She Who is There for Those in Need, is the Mulhorandi goddess of childbirth, motherhood, poetry, and the moon. She's little known in the Western Heartlands, but as a matter of cultural interest, we at The Silverscale Reader bring you word of her upcoming holy day--called "The Birthing" by those among her faithful. The Birthing occurs on the day of the first full moon after Greengrass (Mirtul 25, this year, with the Milk Moon). It is an occasion around which time many of Hathor's priestesses give birth, and it is welcomed each year with great joy and happiness. All priestesses of Hathor are required to unveil a new song, dance, or poem at this time, if they are not in the final stages of pregnancy or the mother of a newborn, thereby giving birth in a symbolic sense to a new idea.

SAFEDAYS OF YONDALLA (MIRTUL 25, KYTHORN 5, KYTHORN 15)

Halflings set aside one day per Realms week--the fifth day of each tenday--for worship of Yondalla. Safeday, as it is known, is a day that is mostly spent in rest and play. In the morning, families gather together in the home, collectively offer up the fruits of the goddess's bounty in homage to the Provider, and then spend several hours preparing a tenday's feast from those offerings. During these activities, local members of the clergy of Yondalla go from house to house to lead each family in brief devotions, offer the goddess's blessings, and share any concerns a family may have.

When the tenday's feast is prepared, each family, sometimes joined by a local priest, joins together in eating, laughing, and the telling of tales. In the late afternoon, the Small Folk emerge from their homes and assemble in the central square. The highest-ranking priest of Yondalla (or in the absence of a priest, a pious lay representative) then leads the assembled Small Folk on a walk around the central community, symbolically joining Yondalla in her defense of the settlement. Such tours are hardly armed patrols; they usually involve contests to see who can pick the most perfect apple or the like and other gentle reminders of how bountiful are the goddess's gifts. When the promenade returns to the central square, the community-wide dinner feast begins. Extra food prepared during the morning hours is heated and served, while the community elders relate traditional tales of halfling folklore. Such festivities can last far into the night as the community reforges their communal bonds. Unlike the religious ceremonies of other races and powers, allies and even strangers are often invited to contribute and partake in the feasting and merriment--meaning if you're intent on visiting Gullykin, doing so on a Safeday is an excellent idea!

WHITE MASK THEATER'S COMEDY NIGHT (MIRTUL 27)

On the 27th of Mirtul, the White Mask Theater will be hosting an open stage night, where performers from all over the region are invited to entertain on stage. Because the theater attracts potential patrons from among the merchant nobility of Baldur's Gate, it's a popular venue for would-be bards and artists hoping to showcase their abilities to the local elites. This month's theme will be "comedy:" so it should be good for a laugh!

LOVIATAR'S CANDLE RITES (KYTHORN 12)

Every twelve nights, the faithful of the Willing Whip celebrate a dark ritual which they refer to as their Candle Rites. During this profane ritual, they sing, chant, and pray as they dance around lit candles, passing some parts of their bodies through or over their flames repeatedly until the rite ends with the highest-ranking priestess extinguishing her candle with consecrated wine. If you see anyone performing such rites, please report it to the Flaming Fist or City Watch. Worship of Loviatar remains illegal in the city of Baldur's Gate, and its adjacent farmlands, and should be guarded against.

THE COMMUNION OF LAUGHTER (KYTHORN 13)

The church of Garl Glittergold holds monthly worship services on the 13th day of each month--an auspicious day in gnome folklore. Known as the Communion of Laughter, the Forgotten Folk venerate the head of the gnome pantheon through a variety of activities that last the entire day. Although the order varies from temple to temple, the Joker's rituals include a period of prayer and quiet contemplation, dancing atop the central dais, the sharing of communal meals, storytelling to the accompaniment of visual displays of magic, and joke telling contests that last late into the night. Individuals are expected to offer a bit of gold (or other precious metals, if gold is not available) to the god, even if it is just a handful of gold dust. The moneys so collected are used by the temple for the collective benefit of the community.

W E A T H E R - R E P O R T

With spring approaching its midpoint, and summer just around the corner, the region has been blessed with a great deal of rain. Storms and showers are common, in stark contrast to last year's devastating drought, and the region's farmers are pleased with the growth they've been having so far.

Now is an ideal time to start growing cucumbers, melons, and summer squash, as well as all variety of beans. You can begin harvesting your rhubarb (one druid tells me that it is advised that you pull off the leak stalks rather than cut them). You can also begin supplying your taller plants with supports at this time, and finish cutting back the dead branches on perennial flowers and shrubs.

As far as flower growers are concerned, now is the time to begin planting warm-season annuals and summer bulbs, such as dahlias and cannas. Be sure that you mulch around your newly-planted flowers, vegetables, shrubs, and trees to help reduce weeds and retain moisture.

In regards to sea conditions, it is advised that prayers be given to Umberlee before any lengthy voyage. Mirtul is traditionally pretty safe for travel (aside from the occasional storms), but next month will be ushering in the start of hurricane season.

E C O N O M Y - W A T C H

ECONOMIC OVERVIEW

With spring's flowers, the economy of the Sword Coast has also started to grow. Although it remains weak--with the sacking of Triel, the troubles in Beregost and Nashkel, and the Tethyrian civil war all playing a role in enfeebling the local economy--there is a nascent promise of greater things to come for those who have the wherewithal, the wit, and the wisdom to seize on newly awakening opportunities.

Waterdeep and the other cities in the Lords's Alliance continue to trade with Baldur's Gate (even though they publicly wonder at the city's ability to pull through its down term); while new faces emerge on the economic landscape, both good and bad. The Red Wizards of Thay appear to be reborn in the region, and the Zhentarim are playing a more active local role as well.

With the destruction of the Black Orc menace, focus can be turned to the bandit scourge of the north and northeast, and the trade routes through these regions--for so long made harrowing by the presence of the well-armed brigands--might once more be opened by and to the goodly traders of the Realms. Meanwhile, with the end of winter and its winter storms, the northern sea roads will be open to shipping once more. Will 1349 be the year of northern economic growth? Only time will tell.

What is clear is that the local economy cannot afford to become complacent. Right now is the time for the Council of Four and the merchant powers of the region to dig deep, recommit themselves to economic growth, and work together to ensure that out of the troubled times we leave behind us, good times lie ahead.

COMPANY PROFILES

THE MERCHANT'S LEAGUE: The Merchant's League has increased its recruiting operations, and has recently started exploring the region for additional resources. It has entered into trade negotiations with several local powers, and has begun working on intriguing development plans. Recent overseas trade has been fruitful, as well, leading to an increased overall profit margin. Its paper, The Silverscale Reader, has proven popular with people, increasing the reach of its name and its influence. The League is as healthy as it has ever been, if still not as strong as it could be. (MERCHANT'S LEAGUE INVESTMENT VALUE SITTING AT -/+0)*.

THE CLEAR SKY TRADING COMPANY: Based out of Beregost, the Clear Sky Trading Company has remained silent. With the crime in Beregost discouraging trade, and local politics likewise claiming damages, it is very likely this company has gone bankrupt. It will be removed from the next edition of the Silverscale Reader. Our condolences to its investors and owners. (CLEAR SKY INVESTMENT VALUE SITTING AT -10).

THE NASHKEL TRADE EMPORIUM: The Nashkel Trade Emporium has suffered over the past two months, even with its new management. The situation in Nashkel has just not made the company viable. Although its name still holds meaning in the memory of many, the company itself is sinking fast. It will need to find a way to make itself relevant again in the face of Nashkel's crippled ore mines if it hopes to keep its ahead above water. (N.T.E. INVESTMENT VALUE SITTING AT -6).

THE RED WIZARDS OF THAY: The Red Wizards have been more active recently, with many new faces in the region. One Red Wizard told The Silverscale Reader that they have been reinforced by their home country of Thay. If this activity and reinforcement translates into market development, it's very likely that the Thayans will prove a mighty mercantile power in the region--a grave threat indeed for the local purveyors of magic, who have long sold their wares unchallenged. (RED WIZARD INVESTMENT VALUE SITTING AT -3).

THE SEVEN SUNS TRADING COSTER: The Seven Suns, perhaps more than any other trading company, has looked to the disappearance of the Black Orc threat as a promising sign of success yet to come. Although the bandits still exist as a threat to their caravans, their prospects have improved overall. While they are a long way away from stabilizing as a coster, they are moving in the right direction. (SEVEN SUNS INVESTMENT VALUE SITTING AT -5).

WHITE ROSE IMPORTS: White Rose Imports made a name for itself by sponsoring the White Mask Theater's highly successful play, Thistle, but it has yet to adequately convert that fame into fortune. Its owner, James White, will need to build on his reputation as a patron of the arts, and find additional ways to bolster the company's profits. Relying on coordinating the White Rose with the N.T.E. is inadequate, so long as Nashkel suffers in the south. (WHITE ROSE INVESTMENT VALUE SITTING AT -3).

*: Note that a company's Investment Value is measured on a sliding scale from -10 to +10, with 0 representing a generally successful or typical business in a stable economy.

W H O ' S - W H O - O N - T H E - C O A S T

KHELBEN "BLACKSTAFF" ARUNSUN

Khelben Arunsun is the most powerful and influential archmage of the Sword Coast, and is believed to be one of the rulers of Waterdeep. Allied to the Harpers, and instrumental in keeping the Lords's Alliance (of Baldur's Gate, Silverymoon, Sundabar, Neverwinter, and other good cities of the North, with Waterdeep) intact, Khelben is always working to influence this or that occurrence or trend, seeing years ahead.

He is a forester and painter, and has tutored many mages of note. Khelben appears as a tall (6'), well-muscled, bearded man with a receding hairline (black hair shot through with white), and a distinguished manner. He is gravely wise, not pompous, and is fully learned in the history, lore, and traditions of magic as practiced by humans in the North since their rise from barbarism.

O B I T U A R I E S

This section has brief obituaries of locals who have died in the past couple of months, including a special piece on the recent murder victims. It's a good read if you're macabre, or if you're a priest of Myrkul. Few among the adventurer population would see names they'd recognize among the names of the dead.

[ OOC Note: If any PC is ever permakilled, be sure to notify me and you'll have an obituary write-up remembering your death and celebrating your impact on the server (good or bad). ]

H E L P - W A N T E D

NOW HIRING: EDITOR

The Silverscale Reader is looking for a full-time editor to assist with the design and production of the reader. If you have experience publishing, or simply a knack for design, you are encouraged to contact Aedesius Silverscale at the Merchant's League building in Baldur's Gate. Pay is competitive. A sample of your work is required.

[ OOC Note: I would love to have someone who would be willing to help me with the presentation of this monthly newspaper. I've done my best, but I am quick to admit that I know almost nothing about Photoshop, and have had to rely primarily on text and formatting. ]

NOW HIRING: PERSONAL CHEF

Aedesius Silverscale is hiring a personal chef to help prepare for and manage events, dinners, and gatherings. Special consideration is given to chefs who are capable of either producing a wide array of desserts, or who are capable of producing exotic, flavorful dishes. If interested in applying for the position, contact Aedesius Silverscale at the Merchant's League building in Baldur's Gate, or leave a letter of interest with Elad at the front desk.

CURRENTLY SEEKING: SAILORS AND MARINES

The Merchant's League is seeking experienced sailors and swordsmen to help staff and protect its merchant marine. Join the Merchant's League and see far-off Calimshan, the mysterious Moonshae Isles, the marvelous City of Splendors, and more! Only men and women of able body and age of consent will be considered for the merchant marine. Please contact Aldeth Sashenstar or Aedesius Silverscale if interested in signing on.

Do you already own or captain a ship? Would you like to earn a little extra money carrying goods or protecting a merchant ship? Please contact the Merchant's League.

WANTED: WRITERS

The Silverscale Reader wants you! If you have an interesting story, issue, or topic to bring to public attention, the Reader is willing to pay you for your work! Submissions can be left with Elad at the front desk of the Merchant's Leage building in Baldur's Gate's bustling harbor district.

The Reader is also hiring several full-time, investigative writers to seek out and publish information worth sharing! If interested in joining the Reader's full-time staff, please contact Aedesius Silverscale.

NOW HIRING: ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Aedesius Silverscale is seeking a discrete, competent assistant to aid him in administering his office and in keeping his calendar, to guard him against threats to his life or his safety, and to meet and converse with others on his behalf. Because this position comes with so many responsibilities, only highly qualified individuals will be considered for it. If interested, contact Aedesius Silverscale at the Merchant's League building in Baldur's Gate.

CURRENTLY SEEKING: SKILLED MERCENARIES AND LOCAL GUIDES

The Merchant's League is hiring swordarms and guides to help its representatives explore the region in search of tradeable resources. You can be expected to accompany representatives in mapping the region, in patrolling and learning more about its trade roads, and in protecting those roads for the unharrassed transport of people and goods. If interested in trading your skill for silver, contact Merchant's League advocate, Derivan Galivor.

DO YOU NEED HELP WITH SOMETHING? ARE YOU HIRING?

Take out an advertisement with The Silverscale Reader for only 1,000 gold pieces per ad! Reach hundreds of potential employees through an authoritative medium, and find the best of the best for your personal needs or your business!

M A R K E T P L A C E

HAVE SOMETHING FOR SALE? LOOKING TO BUY?

Take out an advertisement with The Silverscale Reader for only 1,000 gold pieces per ad! Reach hundreds of potential customers, find the perfect item or piece of equipment, or advertise your merchant company! Contact Aedesius Silverscale at the Merchant's League building in Baldur's Gate for more information.

L O R E L O O K - C O R N E R

SING A SONG
(Written by Nëa the Dancer)

Sing a song
To the fading darkness of night
As the spring sun rises
And births a new day

Sing a song
To the warm midday light
As the day becomes strong
And guides our way

Sing a song
To the red evening sky
As the shadows grow long
And the day says "Goodbye"

Sing a song
And dance under the moon
It is here we belong
In the light of Selûne

IPPENSHEIR: FESTIVAL OF GOND
(Written by Keila Merle)

Ippensheir is celebrated in the twelve days following Greengrass. The Wonderbringer blessed his faithful and new inventions were shown and shared, along with a feast. The festival is the only holiday of Gond and is named after his first servant, Ippen.

TRADING TERMS AND PHRASES

BACKERS: Persons sworn to conduct or wind up your affairs in accordance with your written instructions (or, failing that, best business practices) in the event of your death, sudden mysterious absence, or known kidnapping or illness.

COINRING: A small and usually secretive cabal of investors working together (in terms governed by detailed written contracts) to pool coins they can spare to purchase cargoes or properties they can't individually afford. Subtle inequalities in such contracts are the best way of getting other persons to lend their coins to your profit.

COINTOSSING: Quietly making informal short-term loans (without paperwork, at interest typically as high as one-quarter of the principal). Shopkeepers with cash-flow troubles often have no choice but to try to find someone to lend them coins for a few days, to get goods (particularly perishables such as food) they couldn't otherwise afford, that they must buy right now. Borrowers accept such terms because they can largely conceal how desperate their personal finances are, and because such interest rates might be as little as half what licensed moneylenders charge for short-term, high-risk loans.

COSTER: An alliance of small, independent companies formed into a traveling caravan group for safety.

DEED-CLAIM: A written agreement to pay a set sum within so many days after a service is rendered. The agreement stipulates that the service-renderer is entitled to take possession of specific property if payment isn't made. Most authorities frown severely on persons who try to refuse or become unavailable to receive payment so they can instead seize property they want.

FACTOR: Trade agent who buys, sells, and sees to the safe storage, delivery, and transport of cargoes (a "traveling factor" is a trade agent who habitually moves from city to city while acting for clients).

FIRE BOND: Surety against building fires. Guarantors must fight fire or, more often, pay value of lost goods.

GRUDGECOINS: A moneylender or moneylenders.

HARDTAR: Trade goods that are difficult to sell or, by their nature, hard to store.

HEALSHIELD: A "healing bond" or prepayment with a local temple for the casting of spells on the bond purchaser or designate for healing, poison- and disease-quelling, or raising from the dead. Most bond purchasers pay the entire sum for lesser spells, and post deed-claims with temples for more expensive magics.

MERCHANT COMPANY: A partnership of three or more merchants (usually six or so) who jointly own and operate a business together. Most merchant companies are based in several cities and were formed by the merchants currently leading the company. (Few merchant companies survive the deaths of the majority of original partners). Most merchant companies specialize in the production and sale of certain types of items, finding efficiency (and hence profits) by working together to acquire the base resources, create a finished good, and bring it to market.

MERCHANT HOUSE: A family-run business spanning multiple generations with a broad range of investments and a narrow range of specialized activities. Most merchant houses are led by a single matriarch or patriarch who controls the family purse strings and might be titled (in places such as Amn, Sembia, Baldur's Gate, and Waterdeep). Some family members contribute significantly to the family business, while others live on a monthly allowance.

METAL ENOUGH: The swiftly spreading Sembian term for "street credit," from a line in an old, largely forgotten play, Morlos the Mad Merchant: "There's metal enough in his bottom for him to hold down that throne."

MISSED TOP COIN: Failed to learn about or take advantage of an opportunity to make wealth.

PRIAKOS: A large caravan company, usually created by the permanent amalgamation of smaller caravan companies in several geographical areas, which controls a trade route or strategic area.

SCRIP-TRADING: Buying and selling paper documents rather than real goods: ship captains, fleet owners, or trading coster officials sell redeemable "scrips" (written notes) for amounts of specific goods (describing origin, construction, and quality, and stating a season or a month for their arrival). If a merchant no longer wants (or can no longer afford to wait for) this incoming ship or caravan cargo, he sells the scrip for ready money (less than he paid for it). The buyer of the scrip can resell it for a higher amount, or gather it with other scrips in hopes of cornering a market in a specific good so as to arrange "shortages" and drive up prices. Some traders make a living just on the difference between what they pay for a scrip and what they sell it for, without ever actually handling any goods. Scrip-trading is the daily grease that keeps Sembian commerce running, and thus substantial profits can be made there.

SMALL-MERCHANT: A worker employed by someone else, who buys and sells items "on the side," and so typically trades hand-to-mouth, in small amounts, and for few coins.

SUNDRIES: Relatively nonperishable, everyday Faerûnian items and supplies (such as lanterns, blank ledger books, inks, and decorative locks and latches).

SURETY: A written, filed-with-government agreement compelling its guarantors to act (insurance).

TALLIES: Palm-sized electrum plaques marked with hard-to-counterfeit magical seals, issued by the government of Sembia as official notes of indebtedness. Tallies can only be redeemed by the person to whom they were issued, in the presence of any government banker, anywhere in Sembia, and so are worthless if stolen. When large debts are to be paid (particularly if the debtor wants witnesses to the payment being made), debtors often take a tally for the correct amount to a government banker with the creditor, and the banker cancels the first tally and issues a second one to the creditor. Tallies make possible the transfer of large monetary sums without the need for assembling chests of coins.

TRADERS'S CLUB: Establishments in Sembian cities, Westgate, Scornubel, and Amn where merchants can make deals in privacy. All have door guards and entry rules, and they seek to keep government officials and spies out. Many serve food and provide entertainment or "hiding places for hire." Traders's clubs replaced the less private and safe taverns used by merchants for such purposes elsewhere.

TUMBLEDOWN SURETY: Also known as windstorm surety, this surety compels guarantors to pay for the raising of a new building, and compensate for lost contents, if a "covered" building collapses.

WATCH-MONEY: Fees paid to hire business spies.

WANT TO BE PUBLISHED? SUBMIT YOUR WORK!

Do you have an original poem, story, or song that you'd like to share with the world? How about a painting or a drawing? Submit it to The Silverscale Reader! We accept all original works of art, and thoroughly enjoy them. If published in the Reader, you will even be paid for it! Please send or deliver all submissions to the Merchant's League building in Baldur's Gate.

T R A V E L - T R I V I A

THE SWORD COAST

This month we take a look at our own region, that of the Sword Coast. At a glance, the Sword Coast consists of the western shore of Faerûn, and is given its name by its sharp, high cliffs (like white swords against the sea), as much as for its history of violence and warfare. The Sword Coast's sea is called the Sea of Swords, beyond which lies the great Trackless Sea.

The Sword Coast is a rough, brawling area dominated by Waterdeep, "the City of Splendors." The coast itself is treacherous, filled with undersea reefs, rock outcroppings, and soft, mucky bottoms that extend out for miles. True ports are few and far between on the Coast, which is the reason that the best harbor capable of handling sea vessels, Waterdeep, has grown into one of the most important cities of the North.

Scholars and sources disagree on the effective length of the Sword Coast, and some extend it a great deal south, into the lands of Amn, Tethyr, and Calimshan (to Calimport). The southern kingdoms resent this categorization, for they consider the lands of the Sword Coast (in their eyes, everything north of Amn) to be dangerous wildlands, with people little better than barbarians.

Nevertheless, the region has a rich history. In the year 227 DR (the Year of the Raised Banner), for example, the adventurer Orluth Tshahvur established the kingdom of Shavinar to the north of present day Baldur's Gate in order to combat the local threats. The kingdom lasted fifty years, before falling to trolls in 277 DR (the Year of Broken Flame).

But while the Sword Coast is a challenging place to live, most of us will agree that home is home, and ours is well worth living in.

V I L L A G E - S Q U A R E

This column is meant for reader questions and submissions, as well as general gossip, rumors, celebrity trivia, and personal connections. It is to be a public forum where readers can connect with writers and with other readers, publish opinion pieces, or share important beliefs and calls to action with the public at large.

Publication of submissions are at the staff's discretion, and we will not publish death threats, overly hateful rhetoric, or material that might be deemed illegal.

Please address all of your questions and submissions to Aedesius Silverscale at the Merchant's League building in Baldur's Gate.


THE WHITE MASK THEATER
(Written by representatives of the White Mask Theater)

The White Mask Theater's recent play, Thistle, proved to be a huge success. Duke Eltan was spotted amongst the audience with his consort, as were several other notable nobles. People are eager for more performances, and Theater Director Herran Hymn has stated that two new plays are in production: a humorous love story featuring gypsies, and a grand tale of dwarven history. In the meantime, the Theater is hosting Open Stage Nights, where the audience is encouraged to take the stage and perform a piece themselves. Storytelling, singing, dancing, juggling, and more can be seen during Open Stage Nights, and whether they have have a lot of talent or just a little, everyone is welcome to participate.

GREENGRASS CELEBRATIONS
(Written by representatives of the White Mask Theater)

The White Mask Theater actress, Telia Navra, hosted a general Greengrass Celebration at the Arena. Attendance was good and many were eager to participate in the treasure hunt. Telia Navra welcomed the spring with a poem, Panlamin Hawklight entertained the audience with a tale, and Herran Hymn beguiled those gathered with music and song.

BRAWLERS TOURNAMENT AT KRAAK HELZAK
(Written by Keila Merle)

Karond the Trader, a prominent dwarven merchant, sponsored a tournament in honour of the dwarven king Dovkin Battlehammer at the Kraak Helzak stronghold. Many were eager to prove themselves and take home the grand prize of one million gold. The White Mask Theater provided entertainment during pauses in the fighting. The final rounds were close, with the title match held between Xaros Blackfeather and Lucious Gold. Xaros Blackfeather emerged as the tournament's champion and took home the prize.