Something is in the air, adventurers!

Is it love? Whispers of some lost arcane secret on the wind? Or the sound
of the Consortium printing presses? The latest Issue of the Serin Mystique
has arrived!

Inside, you will find current events, riddles, research, and interviews with
the notables of Serin. You'll find gossip of the current days as well as
traditions and memories of seasons gone by.

So please, at your leisure, enjoy!

- Mystleaf Windlebrook, Polymath of Arcane

This Mystique authored by:

- Polymath Mystleaf Windlebrook
- High Herald Trillian Triffle
- Abecedarian Foggledonk

With thanks to our Immortal Guides:

- Seer Avenar, Oracle of Impending Doom
- Lord Varliv, Supreme Magistrate of Serin

Hear ye, hear ye, warriors and champions!

We gather today to announce that Afales has been named Warmaster of the
Warlords, a title earned through unwavering dedication and prowess in
combat. Since the last Mystique, Afales's valor has led to this esteemed
position, guiding the Warlords in their pursuit of martial honor and
dignity. Cheers resound as we herald Afales's role as Warmaster among the
Warlords!

Hear ye, hear ye, townsfolk and wanderers alike!

Gather 'round, for a recent momentous occasion graces us! Mystleaf
Windlebrook, a name whispered in reverence among the trees and rivers, now
stands as the Polymath of Arcane! His unwavering devotion to the ancient
arts of druidic and arcane magic has ignited the very soul of our
Consortium. Mystleaf's profound wisdom, an echo of the ages, has paved the
path to enlightenment and discovery for us all. Let the town bells ring,
and the fires burn bright in celebration of this remarkable achievement!

Introducing the Void-Elf Ranger:

In an era where the fabric of reality weaves tales of majesty and
mystery, the emergence of the Void-Elf Ranger marks a significant evolution
in Serin, blending arcane forces with the revered path of the ranger. This
exclusive revelation unveils a path less trodden, where bravery ventures
into the unknown.

To become a Void-Elf Ranger, one must start on the established paths of the
ranger, a process demanding both reputation and determination. This choice
involves relinquishing the art of stealth in favor of acquiring spell-like
abilities that echo the might traditionally wielded by invokers.

Significant sacrifices mark this transformation: the loss of camouflage,
campfire, and wounding shot in exchange for a new arsenal of afflictive
spells. This departure from traditional ranger abilities to spellcasting
prowess signifies a shift to harnessing the Void itself.

Bound by neutrality, the Void-Elf Ranger walks a path dictated by chaos or
law, shielded by a unique immunity to sleep, ecstasy, and insomnia. As we
herald their arrival, we stand on the brink of discovery, ready to explore
the depths of destiny within Serin's ever-expanding horizons.

Will the Void-Elf Rangers forge a new legacy? Time will reveal the impact
of this confluence of power and nature, as we watch, ready to inscribe the
next chapter.

Mystleaf Windlebrook, Polymath of Arcane

Introducing the Jagar race:

The unveiling of the Jagar race, a striking fusion of jaguar and human,
introduces beings with agile humanoid forms cloaked in fur-patterned
camouflage, topped by heads mirroring the fierce jaguar. Renowned hunters,
their agility and natural disguise make them formidable within their native
jungle depths in Serin. Here, they revel in solitude, venturing out only to
defend their domain or for the necessities of survival. Yet, it's
Rakhashe's blessing of innate curiosity that propels them to traverse the
realms, driven to uncover every truth and secret with an almost obsessive
zeal. This curiosity, mingled with their creator's defining impulsivity,
infuses their interactions with other races with complexity and
unpredictability.

Their skepticism towards authority and impetuous nature often spark
conflicts, yet their curiosity and deep-seated loyalty can pave the way for
unforeseen friendships and alliances. Despite a general disdain for gods,
reflecting past grievances, the Jagar acknowledge their existence.
Unwavering in their opposition to urbanization and environmental harm, they
advocate for a harmonious balance in the world. Lightning holds little sway
over them, a testament to their resilience. The Jagar's versatility shines
through their adaptability to numerous classes, including warrior,
berserker, ranger, thief, monk, illusionist, shaman, and druid. This
diversity underscores their multifaceted existence, bridging the primal and
mystical, as they navigate the complexities of Serin and beyond.

Mystleaf Windlebrook, Polymath of Arcane

Archeological Site Discovered: The Black Pyramid

Nestled deep within the Sands of Sorrow, beyond the relentless sandstorms,
lies a verdant jungle that conceals an ancient edifice the Black Pyramid,
crafted from the very sands that surround it. This enigmatic structure is
fraught with dangers, from cunning traps to fearsome beasts, all guarding
its secrets zealously, ready to offer any intruders as sacrifices to the
gods.

The pyramid is not just a place of peril; it is the domain of the Jagar, the
human-jaguar hybrids. Within its confines lie untold secrets and
challenges: quests waiting to be undertaken, trees that beckon to be
climbed, slides that promise swift descent, riddles that demand to be
solved, dragons that dare to be fought, and depths that call to be explored.
Caution is advised, for the pyramid's guardians patrol swiftly and show no
mercy to the unwary.

Adventurers are encouraged to explore this mysterious area at their own
risk. Should you uncover its secrets or survive its trials, report your
findings to Mystleaf at the Consortium, where every piece of knowledge
contributes to our understanding of this ancient wonder.

Mystleaf Windlebrook, Polymath of Arcane

Beneath the moon's soft, silver gaze,
Through whispering woods and misty haze,
A path unwinds, its secrets keep,
Where shadows dance and willows weep.

The stars above, like silent guides,
Light the way where mystery hides,
And in the heart of night so deep,
Ancient secrets softly speak.

With every step, the journey grows,
Through time's embrace, the river flows,
And in the silence, dreams take flight,
Beneath the cloak of endless night.

So tread the path that calls your name,
Where every turn is not the same,
For in the journey, you will find,
The hidden treasures of the mind.

Windlebrook

There once was a staff, strong and grand,
In the grip of a druid, it did stand.
With a whisper, it grew,
In the moonlight, it knew,
The secrets of both sea and land.

Its core from an ancient tree's heart,
Bound by magic, set apart.
With leaves it would sing,
In the winter or spring,
A force of nature, to impart.

In battles, it shone bright and clear,
A beacon of hope, foes did fear.
It called forth the storm,
In its most fearsome form,
And peace, it would bring, drawing near.

Yet, in quiet, it whispered of old,
Of mysteries deep, stories bold.
In the druid's hand tight,
It gleamed with soft light,
A companion through warmth and through cold.

Windlebrook

A haiku, for you:

Lightning's fierce caress,
Enemies fall, nature's wrath,
Silent storm departs.

Windlebrook

In twilight's realm, where shadows mask the day,
Kryton's name evokes a dread, they say.
His footsteps clad in silence, yet they roar,
Striking fear in hearts, from shore to shore.

Blood, the ink with which his tales are penned,
A testament to power, foes cannot defend.
Each drop, a whisper of the Dark Lord's might,
In crimson darkness or the pale moonlight.

Fear, a cloak that Kryton wears with pride,
A mantle earned with every stride.
His presence, a tempest, fierce and wild,
In every man's heart, be it elder or child.

Power, the essence of his silent creed,
In every act, in every deed.
For in the realm where the Dark Lord reigns,
Kryton's the storm, and fear, the chains.

- Submitted anonymously, written in blood

In light's embrace or shadow's fall,
I dance unseen, yet seen by all.
A truth that lies, a lie so true,
In elder tales or tales anew.

I wear a face that's never mine,
A borrowed guise by design fine.
Yet through the eyes, the wise may see
The essence of reality.

What am I, that's not yet is,
In whispered wind, in silent fizz?
A trickster's tool, a seer's sight,
In darkest day, in brightest night.

- Author unknown

I stand not still, yet I grow not.
I have no roots, yet I am nourished by the earth.
I have no mouth, yet I whisper to those who listen,
In the light, I am invisible; in the dark, I am a guide.
What am I?

I dance on the edge of the seen and unseen,
In the flicker of flame, my face is keen.
Bound not by flesh, yet I can be caught,
In whispers of the ancients, my name is sought.
I open the doors to the realms untold,
In the grasp of the wise, my threads unfold.
What am I?

Born from fire and song, not of flesh,
I rest in darkness, silent and fresh.
My tongue speaks only in clashes and cuts,
A faithful companion in duels of guts.
In my dance, I draw lines unseen,
Crafting fates with edges keen.
Not a creature of blood, yet I thrive in fights,
In the grip of heroes, igniting the nights.
What am I?

Hear ye, hear ye!

Mystleaf has been officially named Master of Lore, a title of great
significance that underscores the importance of lore in the realm of Serin.
This role is dedicated to the preservation and expansion of the realm's rich
history, myths, and legends, offering both heroes and inhabitants a deeper
connection to the world around them. Lore enhances the understanding of
artifacts, creatures, and locations, enriching every adventure with context
and depth.

Recently, there has been a notable increase in the lore available throughout
Serin, with new stories and secrets unveiled in places such as Seringale and
the newly unveiled Black Pyramid. This expansion invites adventurers to
explore and interact with their surroundings in more meaningful ways, using
knowledge as a powerful tool in their quests.

All heroes are encouraged to delve into the lore that surrounds them. This
invitation opens up opportunities to uncover hidden truths, solve ancient
puzzles, and prepare more effectively for battles. As Mystleaf continues to
catalogue the history and mysteries of Serin, the realm awaits what
discoveries might come from this renewed focus on its lore.

Over the past celestial, the Warlords' tradition of transforming their
vanquished foes into grotesque trophies has taken on a renewed significance.
This practice, involving the conversion of spines into belts, heads onto
pikes, and eyes into earrings, goes beyond mere savagery. It's a potent
reminder of the high stakes of honor and the severe consequences for those
who falter in their duties or betray their comrades. Each trophy, grim as
it may be, is a testament to the importance of loyalty and the stark
punishment awaiting dishonor. This ritual, deeply ingrained in their
culture, reinforces their unyielding code of conduct, reminding all within
their ranks of the weight of honor.

Calling all heroes of Serin! The Consortium invites you to share your
scholarly works and discoveries. Dive into your research, unravel the
mysteries of our realm, and contribute to our collective knowledge. Each
substantive submission will be rewarded with 50 Herald chips, offering not
just recognition but tangible value for your contributions. Seek out the
depths of lore, the intricacies of magic, and the tales of untold history.
Make your mark and enrich our world with your insights.

In the interest of sharing the druidic research I have conducted within
the groves, I thought it time I scribed a short note on the basics of
druidic brewing strategies:

Wilderness Healing:
-Blue Herbal Tea: 2x blue herb
-Green Herbal Tea: 2x small plain herb

Protection Creature:
-Yellow Herbal Tea: 1x blue herb, 1x red herb

Monster Turning:
-Repulsive Smelling Tea: 1x blue herb, 1x small plain herb

What concoctions have you discovered? Write the Consortium to share!

The mixing of potions has been infused with fresh arcane magics
and recipes are being discovered every day!

Mystleaf Windlebrook the Grand Hierophant of the Forest, Polymath of Arcane

A groundbreaking discovery has introduced a new category of secrets,
hidden within the very creatures that inhabit the land. This revelation
promises to deepen our understanding of the diverse ecosystem and the
magical intricacies that govern it. Scholars have found that by closely
inspecting these creatures, arcane mysteries begin to unravel.

Among the realm's inhabitants, one has already proven to be a significant
source of hidden knowledge, marking the first step towards uncovering what
could be a series of profound insights. This finding encourages a more
detailed examination of the natural world, hinting at the multitude of
secrets waiting to be discovered by those observant and dedicated enough to
seek them out.

Recent efforts in the area of druidic studies have uncovered knowledge of
a lost ritual for their staves. With intense focus and determination, a
druid may bequeath a name of their choosing to represent them in spirit and
in battle.

The new Kaleidoscope spell represents the current pinnacle of the new
illusory arts produced by the Illusionists Guild. It is a culmination of
centuries of research into light, illusion, automation, and combination.

As detailed in the scroll published by the Guild in its filing of a new
magic, Kaleidoscope uses magical shards as a focal point to produce enduring
orbs that float about the user. The devil, as always, is in the details!

The greater the shard used, the more orbs that are produced. Each orb can
dazzle the eyes of an attacker providing a passive defense similar to the
fine piece of light armor. Furthermore, the orbs are each a self contained
replication of the protections offered by other guild spells such as weapon
ward, protective shield, and spic and span. The true achievement, however,
is in the automation! The orbs react to threats independent of any active
control of the user. They will dart about and interject themselves between
user and detrimental abilities. They are fragile things and burst upon
taking contact but the protection they offer is worth their destruction.

How does one use such a thing effectively? There are multiple tricks for
maximizing efficacy. An adversary of an Illusionist might think it best to
smash the orbs. This is folly. The orbs are light and permanent. They may
be removed and stashed within your pack! This gives a prepared Illusionist
access to a near infinite number of floating orbs. As many as they took the
time to pre-prepare.

And what might a clever Illusionist do with such capability? The
protections conveyed by the orbs make it far less risky to face opponents
while unaffected by the protections of a weapon ward. This allows them far
greater freedom to cycle between the more protective staff vs a one handed
weapon and various held objects. This opens up greater possibilities for
the use of wands and staves under combat conditions.

But back to the most notable aspect! The automation! This magnificent
spell is yet another step forwards in the great journey of the Guild towards
becoming the friendliest magical organization in Serin. Truly, they may
have finally succeeded in supplanting the Healers Guild for this notable
honorific. For these orbs may be shared freely with friends! It takes the
talent of an Illusionist only to produce them. From there, the orbs are
self-sufficient. This allows a friend of a powerful Illusionist to be
gifted these significant protections and the orbs to be deployed at their
discretion rather than the Illusionists. Indeed, indeed, the Illusionist
need not even be present! Truly, Illusionists are the greatest friend to
all!

- Trillian Triffle, Adversary of Secret Knowledge

The realm is a scary place. There are all manner of foul beasts
and wicked creatures lurking around every corner just waiting to tear even
the most charming of pixies limb from limb. Some of them do not even live
in Seringale! What ever is an Illusionist to do?

The Guild has you covered! There are two new innovations in
anti-aggression. Void Veil and Pandemonium. Their exact function of each
is detailed in the official magical filings. Void Veil, invented by yours
truly as a follow-on to my famously successful (and mostly without dire
consequence) experiments on reality, banishes your foe into the very Void
itself for a short time. Pandemonium uses your illusory friends to scare
foes away.

Both are quite suitable to help an Illusionist control a room with an
unfortunate number of adversaries in it. There is a key difference however!
Aggressive monsters who are scared away will remain quite prickly and
re-engage in combat. Those sent to the Void, however, find themselves quite
pacified by the experience. One can freely bypass them from the first
sending onward.

There are other details to be aware of when using these magics properly! A
banishment to the Void, however brief, will buy an Illusionist ample time to
recall or gate to safety. And do be careful with pandemonium! Creatures do
not enjoy being scared so. Only those engaged in combat with you will flee
when the hysteria strikes. Those standing by will be enraged and attack
you. And you can scare a creature away with this magic but once! Any
further attempts after the first success have no impact.

Stay safe out there and do manage those crowded rooms!

- Trillian Triffle, Adversary of Secret Knowledge

The first in a series of three ciphers, which will reveal a new discovery.

Advance three steps in the alphabet's dance, a secret awaits for those who take the chance.

Pdb kdyh d qhz vhfuhw brx ilqg lqwhuhvwlqj.

The second in a series of three ciphers, which will reveal a new discovery.

Three steps more, the path's not clear, decode the words, the request is near.

Zrq'w brx sdB klp d ylvlw?

The last in a series of three ciphers, which will reveal a new discovery.

Final steps taken, a ruler's name to declare, through the cipher's path, his identity laid bare.

Urfnzruw wkh Rjuh Lqj.

Afales, recently ascended to Warmaster, took the time to share with the
Consortium details on his most recent interactions with Ragnvald, ranking
member of the halls of Valour. Due to a series of concerningly chaotic
events, Ragnvald's actions lead to the unintentional anthema of multiple
lightwalkers, resulting in a deathmark by the furious leader.

The Warlord and Knight took their battle to the arena, where Ragnvald was
able to edge out a victory over the Warmaster, thus resolving the deathmark
and concluding their business. In the renewals following this event,
tension has been felt in the air between the two, but appears to be easing
with time.

In a world dominated by the darkness, can Warlord and Knight afford to
divert their attention and focus their ire on one another? Has this,
perhaps, been the doing of some dark plan?

Mystleaf Windlebrook, Polymath of Arcane

In a rare conversation, the new Knight Roamas, a formidable storm giant
warrior with a presence as electric as his storm-tinted, blue skin, shared
his solemn vow to champion the forces of light. Despite revealing little,
his determination to learn and grow on his path of valor was palpable.
Mourning the loss of his inspirations, Trilane and Arkn, who met untimely
ends, Roamas channels his grief into a fervent quest against darkness. His
visage, marked by battle scars and a visage as commanding as a storm, with
shoulder-length golden hair that mirrors the flash of lightning and grey
eyes reflecting storm clouds' depth, embodies both wisdom and the tempest's
fury. The intricate tattoos cascading over his muscular frame tell tales of
battles and belief in the flow of life. Roamas stands as a beacon of hope
and strength, his resolve unshaken, his journey ahead lit by the legacy of
heroes past.

Mystleaf Windlebrook, Polymath of Arcane

The halls of the Warlord echo with cheers as Hatha joins their esteemed
ranks. With the serpentine grace and ferocity of a legendary beast, Hatha
is poised to build a legacy within the Warlords' annals. This momentous
induction heralds the start of a journey filled with promise and peril.

All eyes turn to the arena, where Hatha's serpentine fury awaits its
unveiling. A display of skill and courage is anticipated, as Hatha embarks
on a path to glory and honor.

Congratulations, Hatha! Your journey with the Warlords begins now. May
your victories be many and your spirit unyielding.

The clang of steel and the roar of battle herald the arrival of Eodo into
the esteemed ranks of the Warlords!

Eodo, embracing the path of the fighter, continues to hone his skills in the
relentless pursuit of mastery. The Warlords' halls resonate with the
promise of his potential, as he stands ready to carve his legacy into the
annals of Serin's history.

Let the arena prepare for the storm that is Eodo's resolve.

Congratulations, Eodo! Your journey has only just begun.

The tranquil silence of meditation gives way to the thunderous applause
of combat as Luluna, a Jagar monk of distinguished discipline, steps into
the ranks of the Warlords!

Luluna melds the art of the monk with the heart of a warrior, bringing a
unique prowess to the battlefield that is both graceful and deadly. The
halls of the Warlord resonate with anticipation for the battles that lay
ahead, as she seeks to test her mettle against the finest Serin has to
offer.

Eager to demonstrate mastery, Luluna has already earned the Trial rank. Let
her opponents beware the silent storm that is Luluna's strength.

Congratulations, Luluna! May your path be marked with victories and honor.

The winds carry a foreboding whisper through the realm, announcing a
chilling development within the shadowed ranks of the Legion.

Oogruk has stepped forth, embraced by darkness, to join the formidable demon
army. This new allegiance sends ripples of dread across Serin, casting a
pall over hearts once alight with hope. The very air seems to thicken with
apprehension as Oogruk's name is etched into the Legion's dark roster, a
promise of impending turmoil.

Serin finds itself ensnared in the cold grip of fear, wary of the havoc that
Oogruk and the demon army are poised to unleash. The world watches, breath
held, for the storm that follows in his wake.

The Legion's ranks swell with dark power as Thelrin, once a shaman of
whispered renown, pledges his allegiance. His mastery of witch-doctory,
blending the arcane with the shadowed depths, marks a foreboding turn for
Serin.

Thelrin's presence in the demon army creates a ripple of fear, his name a
harbinger of the dark rituals and curses soon to be unleashed. As Serin
braces for the storm, Thelrin stands ready, a sinister force within the
Legion's malevolent embrace.

Herald the arrival of Roamas into the noble ranks of the Knights! With
valor in heart and strength in arm, Roamas has pledged to uphold the ideals
of courage, justice, and honor that define the chivalrous path. As the
newest member of this esteemed order, Roamas is poised to embark on quests
that will test their mettle, defend the innocent, and preserve the peace of
our realm. Let us welcome Roamas with open arms and watch as their tales of
heroism unfold, adding to the legacy of the Knights.

It is with profound sadness that we document the passing of Filo for the
annals of Serin's history. Filo, whose valor and skill had rightfully
earned him the rank of Proven, was on a steadfast path towards the
distinguished title of Blademaster. His dedication to the art of combat was
reflected in his commendable record:

Duels: 58, Wins: 34, Losses: 24 (Win Rate: 58%)

Filo's departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him and in
the ranks of warriors he stood among. Let us honor the memory of Filo, a
true warrior whose blade and spirit were as sharp as his ambition. His
legacy of bravery and skill will forever resonate within the hallowed halls
of the Warlords.

The halls of the Warlords echo with a thunderous roar, celebrating Kwyl's
ascension to the esteemed rank of Proven. This elevation is not just a
title but a testament to Kwyl's unyielding spirit and prowess in combat.
Eager to further demonstrate their valor, Kwyl is now on a relentless quest
for challenges, yearning for the clash of steel and the thrill of victory.
Keep your eyes on the arena; Kwyl's journey is far from over, and their
battles promise to be legendary.

Mystleaf has been appointed as the political advisor to the Warlords, a
role that underscores the cabal's commitment to strength, honor, and the
relentless pursuit of excellence. Tasked by the Warmaster, Mystleaf's
wisdom will now serve to guide the Warlords in sharpening their strategies,
selecting warriors of the highest caliber, and ensuring that the ethos of
death before dishonor permeates every decision and action. This appointment
is a testament to Mystleaf's profound understanding of the Warlords' core
values and their ability to inspire greatness within the ranks.

In this new capacity, Mystleaf will not only advise on matters of
recruitment and cabal integrity but will also champion the Warlords'
indomitable spirit across Serin. By melding their expertise with the
Warlords' martial prowess, Mystleaf is set to elevate the cabal's legacy,
reinforcing their position as unparalleled warriors in a realm where honor
is the ultimate currency. This collaboration marks a pivotal chapter in the
Warlords' history, promising a future where their ideals are upheld with
unwavering fidelity and their victories celebrated as the epitome of valor.

Join the Consortium: Unleash Your Curiosity!

Are you one of Serin's brightest and most curious minds, yearning for a
place where your thirst for knowledge can flourish? Look no further than
the Consortium, a unique organization nestled in the Ivory Towers at the
heart of Timaran, with outposts in the vibrant taverns of Seringale and the
enchanting Silent Grove.

Discover the Path to Wisdom:
HERALDS: Become a storyteller and guardian of Serin's rich history and lore.
MYSTICS: Unveil the secrets of the realm, explore the planes, and delve into
the mysteries of the gods.
SCHOLARS: Dive into the vast ocean of academia, dedicated to all forms of
learning.

Dedicate Your Study:
Within the Consortium, members choose to dedicate their studies to nine
pillars of knowledge, unlocking the depths of wisdom and understanding.
Along this journey, the Consortium brings the Mystique newspaper to life,
hosts captivating public and private events, and curates the codex to
enlighten the denizens of Serin.

Excellence in Roleplay:
Consortium members are expected to possess outstanding backgrounds and excel
in the art of roleplay. If you're ready to embark on this extraordinary
quest for knowledge, submit your application to the Consortium for
consideration. A patron Immortal or one of our esteemed members will guide
you further on this enlightening path.

Join the Consortium and embrace a world of endless discovery!

Join the Valiant Knights of Valour!

Are you ready to embark on a heroic journey and stand against the
encroaching darkness? The Knights of Valour, led by the noble Sir Ragnvald
Stormborn, High Templar of Valour, and the fearless Roamas the Battlemaster,
Footman of Valour, invite you to become part of our esteemed ranks.

Seeking Hardy Knights!

In our quest to protect the cherished city of Valour from formidable dark
forces, we are in need of hardy knights who share our unwavering commitment
to honor and integrity. While the squire process may be rigorous, it is a
path to knighthood that leads to the noblest of destinies.

Honor, Integrity, and Allegiance

We understand that some may follow spiritual or watery allegiances, and we
value diversity in our ranks. Join us, and together, we will maintain
unwavering honor on our path to knighthood.

In Remembrance of Knights Arkn and Trilane

We mourn the loss of our allies, Knights Arkn and Trilane, and this loss
strengthens our resolve to recruit brave souls who will help protect Valour
and uphold its noble legacy.

Join the Knights of Valour and become part of a heroic legacy! Stand with
us as we face adversity and safeguard our beloved city. Your destiny as a
valiant knight awaits!

Dive into an adventure unlike any other in Serin! Join "Recovering the
Lost Arcane Relics" for a chance to uncover hidden treasures and compete for
incredible prizes. This event challenges participants to retrieve arcane
relics from powerful creatures, earning points for a chance to win. From a
customizable manor for our champion to unique rewards for runners-up,
there's glory for all. Engage in epic battles, form alliances, and make
your mark. Adventure awaits - will you emerge victorious?

Courtesy of the Consortium via Windlebrook Press

Step into the heart of camaraderie and culture at Mocker's Tavern, where
the Patrons of the Consortium weave the rich tapestry of Serin's history
with every tale and poem shared. This exclusive circle of socialites not
only revels in the arts but upholds the tradition of supporting the Heralds
in their quest to document and celebrate our realm's legacy.

Becoming a Patron opens doors to unparalleled fraternity, where stories of
valor and intrigue echo through the halls, and every member contributes to
the preservation of our collective memory. There are no barriers to entry,
save for a patronage fee and a nod from an existing Patron or Herald,
ensuring that the spirit of inclusivity and peace reigns supreme within the
Tavern's walls.

As a Patron, you'll pledge to a life of fraternity, civility, and
exclusivity, abiding by the tenets that protect our sanctuary and its lore.
Whether you're new to the realms or a seasoned adventurer, the Patrons offer
a haven to connect, learn, and grow.

Join us, and be part of a legacy that transcends time. Sponsorship awaits,
as does your place among the esteemed Patrons of the Consortium.

A drawing of an owl familiar is printed below. It might look better if you
squint your eyes...

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The shadow of Zaikkra, the Emperor of the Material Abyss, loomed large
over Serin, a dire threat that demanded immediate action. As part of the
Consortium, the responsibility weighed heavily on my shoulders. The seven
prime evils, unleashed long ago by a dark lord's malevolence, had been a
scourge upon our lands, untouchable in their abyssal sanctuary until
Denadlyr's ingenuity merged their plane with ours, rendering them vulnerable
at last.

Our history was fraught with turmoil and betrayal, most notably from
Malenfaler's quest for power that led to the Mystics' downfall and Zaikkra's
ascension. Yet, it was from these ashes that we learned the importance of
resilience. "The Purge," a moment of desperation turned victory, symbolized
hope; it was proof that even in the darkest times, we could prevail.

Armed with the summoning stones of Envy, Sloth, Vanity, Wrath, Lust,
Avarice, and Gluttony, collected from realms dark and hidden, our mission
was clear. These stones, secured in the Den of Dreams, whispered of both
power and danger, yet my determination never faltered. Alongside a band of
heroes, we embarked on a perilous journey, starting from the sewers beneath
Seringale to the chilling peaks of Winter, Sin Henge.

This endeavor was not merely about confronting Zaikkra; it was about sealing
a chapter of strife that had lingered over Serin for too long. Each step
towards Sin Henge was a step towards reaffirming our commitment to a greater
purpose: to safeguard and pass on knowledge, ensuring that future
generations would remember and learn from our trials.

The confrontation with Zaikkra beneath the mountaintop was a testament to
our unity and strength. It symbolized our collective resolve to not only
vanquish an ancient evil but to uphold a promise to Serin that those
dedicated to its protection were back, stronger and more committed than
ever. In the aftermath of victory, as tranquility once again embraced our
lands, we knew that our journey was just beginning. The legacy we were
building, grounded in the preservation of wisdom and guidance for the
future, was a beacon of hope. As a guardian of this knowledge, I stand
ready to lead the way forward, ensuring that the lessons of the past would
light the path for Serin's tomorrow.

Mystleaf Windlebrook the Grand Hierophant of the Forest, Polymath of Arcane

In a frenzied scrawl, ink splattering like a racing heartbeat:

I hope this makes its way to you before it happens, we need all the support
we can get.

First came a shadow... Or did I imagine it? No, it was there, lurking,
followed by a thief cloaked in the night's embrace. And then, an emissary,
speaking of old warswhispers of dread followed by not one, but two figures.
My hands tremble as I write this... The Void, it seems, isn't done with us.
The Void-Elves, what is their role? I can't piece it together, not yet.
Fear clutches at my throat; our world, Serin, feels on the brink of
something... Something dire. Alone with these thoughts, I'm consumed by a
worry so deep, it's paralyzing.

What exactly are we facing? How can we prepare ourselves?