Alchemy LARP

Harrowdale Herald #3

Issue #3

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Articles

Three Year Anniversary of Missing Adventurers

By Staff

It has been three years since a large number of adventures that called the greater Harrowdale area their base of operations. Many had come from all over even other continents and even the Moon.

We wish to bring to light information on these groups as they have at one time or another been of great aid to the town and area of Harrowdale.

We hope there is a day that we descover what has happened to these Heroes. Among those are the following:

Freeblades of Harrowdale
- Among some of the most well-known and received heroes of the city are the Freeblades of Harrowdale. Taking their name from the city itself the Freeblade were known as stalwart defenders who worked hand in hand with the Order of the Alaunt.

Their numbers were said to be five strong and hardy. They each were masters of blade. Many crafted for them by gifted Alchemists about town. While not knights they certainly embodied those values.

The safety of Harrowdale from a horde of hobgoblins from the Eastern Lands of Tian being fought at the Southcliffs is most well-known.

Broken Moon Consortium - A band of Elven and Wildkin merchants formed an unlikely band of adventurers, if they can be called that. They were beloved by the town and always helpful. With a generous hand and purse they often kept the town safe by virtue of their wares.

It is said that they had a mystical grove where they did so much of their crafting of potions, salves and trinkets. Though no one has yet to stumble across it.

Where they did not often travel they could be found outside of Harrowdale proper. Gathering new and rare Essence and Resources to add in their craft.

The Seven - A mysterious group that didn’t stay in Harrowdale full time but used the town as a meeting point often. They were always cloaked and no one know what Races the members of the group were.

It is known there were a number of them that were skilled in Alkestry and Ritual while others were fairly skilled with blades. Though its hard to know which was which. Each member did wear a brooch showing their allegiance. They never used names but used a number 1 through 7 as their monikers.

Their most famous claim was unraveling a plot of powerful undead creature bent on destroying Harrowdale. The Crypts were sealed by the Seven.

Ravens Underground - This reporters opinion is that not all these heroes were honest. However, it goes with out saying that Ravens Underground did do great deeds for the town and surrounds of Harrowdale.

Many say there were nothing but opportunists and mercenaries. Little more the thieves. Keeping to the shadows and more seedy areas of town the group, ran by a man named Raven, were rumored to have their fingers in many pies.

Raven was recognizable by the large scar over his right eye and a pair of enchanted long knives he was never with out. His enterprises were all around the docks and are said to have reached even to the Pirate Isles.

He received much praise, perhaps undue perhaps not. Do to stopping many of the attacks from the Under Sea whose tendrils reach the town through many an under ground network. Raven knew the ways well and is said to have had many maps of it. This is why the even Harrow respected the man.

Syr Robert and Retinue - A hedge knight of great renown. He and his brave followers traveled all around Harrowdale and the surrounding areas. He was known for defending all that would ask for his aid. He had a route he would travel from Harrowdale to Rutherglen religiously. Everyone surely thought he must have met his end somewhere along the roads he traveled. No evidence shows that.

A ‘knights’ knight he often fought in the yearly Tournament of Pennants held outside Harrowdale yearly. Fighting for the glory in Atalanta name. In single combat it was said he could not be beat.

It is not hard to understand why the city of Harrowdale grieves for Syr Robert and his men.

**This spring at the Festival the colors of these five brave adventuring companies will hang in a place of honor at the feast.**

Celebrations of Winter Gods Holidays

By Preistess Logenees

We at the temples of Arasinya, Niloufar, and Gwillian Annwn wish to express our humble blessings.

We of the Temple of Arasinya the blessings of a gentle and quiet winter. May the snows not break your boughs and your hearth keep the chill from your bones.

We in this Church of the Cold White constantly strive to show that Winter is a time of rest and sleep. To then awaken to a new world. Keep safe and sleep well.

- Preistess Logenees
Emblem for the temple of Arasinya.

Celebrations of Winter Gods Holidays

By Priest Twistlevel

We of the Temple of of the Infinite Creation and the church of Gwillian Annwn grant you harmony and unimpeded roads to walk upon.

- Priest Twistlevel
Emblem for the church of Gwillian Annwn

Celebrations of Winter Gods Holidays

By Priest Heavytread

We of the Temple of Niloufar Wish you the warmth of your communities hearth to keep you safe as these winter nights grow cold. May that warmth spread from town to town and bind them closer together.

- Priest Heavytread
Emblem for the Temple of Niloufar.

Syr Severen Missing

By Ranger Devlin

Questing in the mountains east of Harrowdale. The most honorable Syr Severen of the Order of the Kraken has not been heard from by other members of his Order. He was due to send missives of his progress months ago.

The mountains have been hit with terrible winter storms. Record snow and ice has all but cut off the city state of Kronach.

A number of his order have made camp and lodging in and around Rutherglen. Seeking others to aid for forays into the mountains.

Syr Severen was said to be questing for a powerful relic of their order. a blade named Weavehewer. A sword capable of destroying the bonds of Enchantment Alchemy.

To make matters worse it is heard that bands of Ice Trolls have been traveling out from the higher ranges and their labyrinths of caves that they normally stick to.

Those traveling beware of the pitfalls and creatures of the snowy areas.

Brigands have become more emboldened

By Staff Writer

A number of businesses and individuals have become harassed even more as the winter months have closed in around us.

With shipping remaining open for the time being as the bay that Harrowdale sits on has remained open. Things have not become tight for the common family. Though worries do seem to be being bandied about among the populous.

It is said that merchants have been being shaken down and that it will become more difficult to get the goods that many people may need to survive the colder months to come.

The Order of the Aluant has found it difficult to track down many of the brigands as they are staying well outside the city proper.

This mixed with the fact that dangerous elements such as wolves and other predators have seen an increase in activity. Stretching even out to Ashford Keep. Beware if you are staying in the area of the Keep while the weather is still cold as the beasts are unforgiving.

Luckily the Brigands have not traveled that far in recent months. The roads still remain clear and fairly save between Harrowdale and Ashford. Lord Harrow still recommends caution.

Lord Harrow has also placed a 1 Silver bounty on wolves. Bringing a wolf ear to him will earn your reward and a hardy thanks.

A Ballad of the Sea

By ???

“HOW many?” said our good Captain.
“Twenty sail and more.”
We were homeward bound,
Scudding in a gale with our jib towards
the Nore.
Right athwart our tack,
The foe came thick and black,
Like Hell-birds and foul weather—you
might count them by the score.

The Betsy Jane did slack
To see the game in view.
They knew the Free tack,
And the tyrant’s flag we knew!
Our Captain shouted “Clear the decks!”
and the Bo’sun’s whistle blew.

Then our gallant Captain,
With his hand he seiz’d the wheel,
And pointed with his stump to the middle of the foe.
“Hurray, lads, in we go!”
(You should hear the Free Kingdoms
cheer, Fore and aft.)

“There are twenty sail,” sang he,
“But little Betsy Jane bobs to nothing on
the sea!”
(You should hear the Free Kingdoms
cheer, Fore and aft.)

“See you ugly craft
With the pennon at her main!
Hurrah, my merry boys,
There goes the Betsy Jane!”
(You should hear the Free Kingdoms
cheer, Fore and aft.)

The foe, he beats to quarters, and the
Empire bugles sound;
And the little Betsy Jane she leaps upon
the sea.
“Port and starboard!” cried our Captain;
“Pay it in, my hearts!” sang he.

“We ’re the Free Kingdoms sons,
And we ’ll fight for her to-day!”
(You should hear the Free Kingdoms
cheer. Fore and aft.)
“Fire away!”
In she runs, And her guns
Thunder round

Investigators League Chapter Open

By Staff Writer

Its with great pleasure for the we at the Harrowdale Herald are able to announce that the formation of the Investigators League has opened for registration. Anyone between the ages of 5 and 14 are able to join.

It will be a great endeavor that will teach many skills and lessons that will aid ever young person in excelling in life!

It could be dangerous so be armed with your wits and a blade while you help investigate the areas around Harrowdale and even beyond!

Strange Happenings with Spiders

By Staff Writer

Mines near Ashford Keep have had thier share of problems recently. Affecting the supplies of Resources for Smiths and Engineers they had recently had a group of mixed adventurers come in and clear out the upper levels.

However, it seems that the problem could go deeper. Both literally and figuratively. It seems that the Mine itself and the surrounding area have had a plague of dog sized spiders. The Mining area proper and the small settlements around have been dealing with incursions from these eight-legged fiends.

These spiders are dangerous and should be avoided unless you feel that you can defend yourself.

Their bites have been known to cause a nasty wound and the poison they carry a number of reported effects, Paralysis, Uncontrollable Rage, and Nausea are some of the ones identified.

Teamsters Concern of Road Safety

By Staff Writer

As the teamsters see less and less patrols as of the last few years. They have began to refuse to make certain deliveries to towns and hamlets allong the road to Rutherglen.

In the past there have been no lack of road wardens and freeblades to take commissions from.

With the new adventurers that have begun to fill the vacuum left vacant by the heroes of the past.

The teamsters will become less and less confidant in their safety and could impact the goods needed for all the people to survive the winter.

Rumors of Ritualists Performing Dangerous Rites

By ‘One Eye’ McDanielson

What has been happening in the woods outside the eyes of Ashford Keep. Rumor has it that there has been a number of old ruins that has attracted strangers cloaked and moving in secret.

It is this reporter’s opinion that the lawful authorities in the area should investigate this matter.

What could they be doing? They could be bringing about a cataclysm to the area. There is no coincidence that there are also a large number of goblins in that area also.

If you, dear reader, find any more information contact me.

Winters Grip Holds the Mountain City States in a Lockdown

By Gorex Diamondeye

This winter has been particularly difficult for the City States deep in the mountains. Rutherglen and Kronach specifically. The Dwarves of Kronach have been operating their tunnel systems to reach smaller settlements, but they have a much more limited scale of travel.

Portents show that there may be more to the storms then meets the eye however. Many skilled in Elementalism Alkestry and Ritualism say that sinister forces may me at work.

There are rumors of a cabal of powerful Elementalist known as the Stormriders. Many say that they are a band of Wildkin and Elves with at least one type of giant among their ranks.

A number of Dwarven rangers have been traveling the mountains to find more information. at this time no word has reached as far west as Harrowdale.
Sketch of a Dwarven ranger that has been traveling the mountains to find more information about the dangers of the incoming winter.

News from the Empire

By Various Sources

Though these reports come from members of several city states information gatherers embedded in the Empire The words you read below should be tempered with a lens of caution.

Lord Marshal Heinrich and his forces have moved to the South Eastern portions of the continent.

A flotilla of Warships have taken a small isle in the western Pirate Isles. This will surely prompt an retort from the Council of Pirate Lords.

Several port towns along the southern coastline have been feeling the economic strains of the lack of trade with the Free Kingdoms over the years.

Map shown in the Harrow Herald issue #3

Winter Recipes

Wassail

"Be You Hale"

4 12-ounce bottles brown ale
4 ounces oloroso sherry
2 apples, scored
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 long orange peel studded with cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
6 cardamom pods
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

Garnish: 10-12 apple slices
Garnish: freshly grated nutmeg

Muenster Bread

2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
1 cup warm 2% milk (110° to 115°)
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
3-1/4 to 3-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 large egg plus 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
4 cups shredded Muenster cheese
1 large egg white, beaten
1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in milk. Add the butter, sugar, salt and 2 cups flour; beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.

2. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.

3. In large bowl, beat egg and yolk; stir in cheese. Punch down dough; roll into a 16-in. circle.

4. Place in a greased 10-in. cast-iron skillet or 9-in. round baking pan, letting dough drape over the edges. Spoon the cheese mixture into center of dough. Gather dough up over filling in 1-1/2-in. pleats. Gently squeeze pleats together at top and twist to make a topknot. Let rise 10-15 minutes.

5. Brush loaf with egg white. Bake at 375° for 40-45 minutes. Cool on a wire rack for 20 minutes. Serve warm

Spotlight on the Free Kingdoms Knightly Orders

The Order of The Kraken

Heraldry for the Order of the Kraken.
Heraldy
A Carrack in Or above a line above a line of waves argent on a field Bleu Celeste.
Chief Motto
Fury from the Sea
Order of The Kraken was founded by Sir Owen Hugo Kirke “The White Shark of Kirkintilloch” as an oceanic defense oriented Order to defend the coasts of Alangea.

The Order was initially large with many Knights and Squires who were experts in warfare and sailing the number of warships required an even larger force of sailors and marines. The men who made up these Sailors and marines came from many professions but a large contingent were once pirates who decided to eschew their old way of life and swore to defend the Southern Waters of Alangea.

The wealth of Kirkintilloch allowed the ships and its men to be armed with the latest technology available, and the ships were bristling with hand guns, volley guns, deck mounted swivel guns and of course a battery of small and large cannon Gonnes. The Knights wore an unorthodox style of armor made from lighter Leather cuirboli plates and scale type armor of which the individual scales were composed of thin layers of oiled leather and enameled bamboo composited together with waterproof lacquer. Very little metal was used resulting in armor that would float but was also extremely resistant to hand arms and small handguns, especially the lighter shot. These suits were likewise painted and dyed to resemble various sea creatures from fish to sharks to the feared Kraken with matching helms in the form of these terrible monsters. The Knights and Marines alike were armed with guns as well as small hand weapons suitable for fighting in the tight quarters of a ship like Short Swords, Cutlasses, Small Maces, etc. In addition to these every soldier carrier boarding axes or boarding picks. The Gnomes of Bronwydd also developed a specialized shot for the larger cannons which could fire large grappling hooks or harpoons which could ensnare an enemy ship with large ropes which were often braided with fine steel cables near the ends to prevent cutting them loose or to at least severely hinder such attempts.

I While the success of the Naval Campaign at the Narrows was undeniable and mostly one sided it was not without loss and on the second day of the fighting the Flagship Relentless was stuck and sunk in deeper waters. It is believed its crew was captured by Imperial forces but many say all of its men were lost at sea along with its Knight Admiral Sir Owen Kirke. Veterans from the battle later said that sharks feasted in the waters for a week afterwards on the thousands of dead sailors from both sides and very few of the men who went into the waters were ever recovered in time.

Notices

Weasel Wares Emporium

Adventurers of Harrow, please remember that Weasel Wares can and will take pre-orders for gathers. A few already do that. Most of my prices are negotiable,and not exclusively coin. Here at Weasel Wares are some options you may or not have known about, or that I had in hand for your ordering pleasure.

More can be made, but stop on by to hear about the other things up for sale/in stock!

Q-Wacks©

These augmentative weapon coatings could be the difference between you defeating that skeleton or becoming a skeleton. Currently only available in one potency, but in a few different flavors.

S.O.C.K.s©

The newest addition to the line up. A failed Wound Sauce© formula of mine turned projectile! Dip your preferably gloved hand/paw into the vessel of your choice for S.O.CK. Storage and grab a blob of this liquid to throw. Various creatures seem to have severe allergic reactions to it, so keep that in mind planning your adventure.

Burst of Strength©

A popular choice for those that need that little extra oomf to their game. Seen in action allowing some to push ancient stone blocks, or gaining that edge to slice through tough hides.

Numb©

The most popular thing I offer. Numb allows you to not feel a thing. A popular thing for warriors and field researchers alike to let them get bonked a few more times before needing one of my Wound Sauces© or the help of a healer of some sort.
Weasel Wares has recently acquired some metal an wishes to have a sword made for catalyst testing and the like. Some silver, some metal, and a pig skin will be relinquished as payment for crafting it.

And those who wish to continue testing out the Soul Sipping Slay shall be granted another free sample the next gather. But I do need some feed back on your experience using it for my research. I may need to modify my symbols and such to make it easier to use if it is too much to handle.

Classified and Miscellaneous Musings

Weasel Wares has recently acquired some metal an wishes to have a sword made for catalyst testing and the like. Some silver, some metal, and a pig skin will be relinquished as payment for crafting it.
Where is our new Marquis? He claims a title but what has he done!

~Concerned Clansman
Snitches get stitches.
Missing Hammer Lock Screw. Highly Enchanted

Beware in handling!

Seek Karl Springwinder for reward.
Riddle
What has to be broken before you can use it?
Answer to a riddle in Harrow Herald issue #1. The answer is "An Egg"
Riddle
What begins with T,
finishes with T, and has T in it?
Answer to a riddle in Harrow Herald issue #1. The answer is "A Teapot"
To Syr Colin,
A misunderstood soul to be missed.
I Live again

~S.S.
Mossport Provisioners will soon be providing small alchemical artifact trinkets. Come and find us to talk about what you might like to have made. Prices negotiable.

We are looking to purchase many resources for a fair price. Contact Victor or Soloman
Seek Me Out
Beware the treacherous and foul hand of those that seek control. Ones service should be unto his family and friends
Ansleys Cupcakes for sale at the Mossport Provisioners Lodge 2
3 Silver Per Cupcake. Two Flavors available!
Classified Ads
1 Silver per 10 words

No questions asked on Background or business matters.

Contact the Editor
Out of Play Contact Information
Ryan Massey - Owner
alchemylarp@gmail.com

Matthew Campbell - Logistics
@

Richard Glosson - Off Site Ass. GM
richard.glosson@gmail.com
Welcome to Alchemy LARP
Live Action Roleplaying games (LARPs) take the world of tabletop roleplaying and brings it into the real world. Spend a weekend as a powerful fighter, a cunning rogue or sling transmutations to protect your allies and harm your foes.
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