Covering Heathfield, Ballicastle, Tyremoor, Innis Daingneach, Kildare, Hedgebrier, surrounding areas and Allies.     Issue 01-08

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```*+*``` Happy New Year ```*+*```

New Year's is a time for looking back at the past year and forward to the new.  For Heathfield there were many good events.  We saw several marriages, engagements and births.  Our own Druid Prince married his Lady and recently shared the good news of the pending birth of an Heir.  The King and Queen continue to rule in good heath and to lead the realm in prosperity.  Ballicastle, Tyremoor and Innis Daingneach continue to thrive and do their leaders: King Chadwick, King Peter and Lord Trevellyn Douglas.   The harvests have been excellent, allowing us to export some of our crops to various lands.

Kildare continues to recover and become more self-sufficient.  Many families who fled the reign of the Witch are returning to find that while some areas are still wild and wooly, others are returning to normalcy.   Crops were good and are expected to continue to be expanded with the country becoming less dependant on imports as the years progress.

For the future, we hope to continue to welcome new citizens, see growth of our lands and enjoy many more years under our Kings and Queens.  --submitted by Mary Colleen McAndrews

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The kingdom of Telarus held several events during the month of December.  First was a toboggan run where contestants raced one another down a winding run.  Rocks and slushy spots were found to give the racers trouble while spectators stayed warm and toasty around a bonfire. Queen Julia had made a bet with Rick McAndrews which she lost and will be serenading the Queen here at her first convenience. Rick had done well while Rhett Shawnesey ended up on his back believing to have seen stars and an angel.

Another event was ice skating where Queen Julia showed she could throw a snowball with the best of them. This was where Douglas Shawnesey shone in his ability on ice. He and Rick make good partners but they might consider finding themselves a lass next time!  A grand time was had by everyone at both events.

Lastly was a Winter Wonderland ball where the ladies of the Court outdid themselves in the decorations. Plenty of food, drink and dancing. Our thanks to Telarus for inviting the folks of Heathfield to these wonderful events.  --submitted by Douglas Shawnesey


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Healer's Touch
by Samantha Golden

Black Haw - is an herb with a shadowy past. The reddish-brown bark of this native American shrub has a long history as a folk remedy for gynecological complaints - uses supported by some recent research. Before white people came to this continent, Indian women drank a decoction of black haw bark for menstrual cramps, childbirth recovery, and menopausal discomforts. But its special use was to prevent miscarriage. By its quieting effect on the womb, women who have been previously unable to go to term have been aided to pass through pregnancy without mishaps. Some herbals encourage women to drink black haw tea throughout pregnancy.

Healing with Black Haw: Here is another case where modern science supports folk wisdom - or at least some of it. It turns out that black haw may be a good treatment for some gynecological complaints. But pregnant women are advised against using it. Menstrual Cramps - black haw contains a uterine relaxant (scopoletin) thus supporting its value in treating menstrual cramps. Miscarriage Prevention - this herb has been used for centuries to prevent miscarriage. As a uterine relaxant, black haw may indeed do the job. Unfortunately, it also contains salicin, a close chemical relative of aspirin. Because aspirin has been linked to birth defects, pregnant women should not take black haw. Fever, Headache, Arthritis and other Pain - the aspirin like chemical in black haw may reduce fever and relieve pain. Safety Factor - for otherwise healthy nonpregnant, nonnursing adults, black haw is considered safe in amounts typically recommended. It should only be used in medicinal amounts in consultation with your doctor.  --Taken from The Healing Herbs by Michael Castleman


Life Around Here

Christmas was full of cheer as the bells rang out on Christmas Day. Trees brought in from Ravanna found their way into many homes and decorated in splendor. Carolers walked the night singing songs of Joy and Hope. Many from their homes came out to join in as the progression grew until finally done. Baskets of foods and toys were delivered throughout homes that could not afford so all had something on Christmas day no matter how large or small. Snow continued to fall adding depth of white over hill and dale. Old and young were out alike taking advantage of the frozen lake for ice skating or the slope up from the lake in sledding. Footprints in the snow were left along with sleds only to be filled in as the snow continues to fall. Dress warm when out and don't stay out overly long without breaks from the cold seeking warmth of home or tavern.

This year seemed to have quite a few engagements announced so cupid has chosen a different month. Best wishes to all and their families as the joy of Christmas fills each heart. Everyone is looking forward to the new year that it will bring heart's content. The bells will ring out once more throughout all castle lands on the hour. May it be a prosperous and happy new year for all.

The new Escort Services has gotten off to a grand start. All on the up and up and those so far participating were left with no complaints. Eddie McAndrews, Rhett Shawnesey and Joseph McDonough have proven themselves the perfect gentlemen in a time out with certain ladies. --submitted by Lah Barrett Suex


Births: None this month. Marriages: None this month. Engagements: Adrian Frasier to Aelia Lascaris. Draven MacShire to Tara Shawnesey. Malcolm Douglas to Georgette O'Shay. Deaths: None this Month. Citizenship: Please welcome the return of Michael Saxton and Carlotta Basinstoke along with the new residents: Corin and Derek Garrow, Donnan Calder.


Superstitions
by Athalia Doe Edan

We kiss at midnight not only to share a moment of celebration with our favorite people but also to ensure those affections and ties will continue throughout the next twelve months. The new year must not be seen in with bare cupboards lest that be the way of things for the year.  Larders must be topped up and plenty of money place in every wallet in the home to guarantee prosperity. The first person to enter your home at the stroke of midnight will influence the year you have. Ideally it should be a dark-haired, tall and good-looking man bearing small gifts such as a lump of coal, a silver coin, a bit of bread, a sprig of evergreen and some salt.  Blonde and redhead first footers bring bad luck and females will be disaster down on the household.

The first footer should knock and be let in rather than use a key.  After greeting the house and dropping off whatever small tokens he has, he should make his way through the house and leave by a different door than which he entered.  No one should leave the home before the first footer arrives -- the first footer must be heading in rather than striking out. Absolutely nothing, not even garbage is to leave the house on the first day of the year unless something is brought in first. Wear something new on January 1st to increase the likelihood of reeiving more new garments in the year to follow. Do not pay loans or lend money or precious items on New Year's day.  To do so means you'll be paying out all year. (http://www.snopes.com/holidays/newyears/beliefs.asp)


OTHER LIFE FORMS

Griffins -- The regal griffin (also spelled gryphon) is thought to be the offspring of an eagle (king of the air) and a lion (king of all beasts). Its plumage ranges from cream to deep brown, yet some specimens have feathers with a deep, dark bluish sheen. While many griffins migrated to Europe from the Middle East in the thirteenth century, most remain desert-dwelling. They roost in high places and are only likely to be spotted when they fly in search of food. Their bones are more commonly discovered, although they are often mistaken for bones of dinosaurs. The adult griffin is about the size of a lion but far stronger. Despite their formidable natural advantages, griffins are very rare. Unlike less fantastical hybrids like mules, however, they can reproduce. Their eggs are said to be made of agate. Griffins are resistant to the poison of dragons and very hostile to horses. For this reason, the offspring of a griffin and horse -- the hippogriff -- is considered to be a symbol of the enduring power of love.

Although the offspring of an eagle, this griffin pictured above had a head resembling a vulture or one of the more lightweight raptors. These beasts have amazing stereoscopic vision. In flight they can see a rabbit from miles above the ground. The mane is a shaggy mix of coarse hair and long, thin feathers. Their call sounds like a screechy tea-kettle whistle. Like many fishing eagles, they have dangerously sharp talons. Note the opposable thumb-like claw. Like dragons, griffins have been recorded through stories and art in many lands around the world, indicating their vast distribution. Described for centuries, this beast has become more and more majestic with each generation.  -- submitted by Kathleen Frasier - from Arthur Spiderwick's Field Guide. Everyone should have one!


Ring in the New Year -- January

In order to set the calendar right, the Roman senate, in 153 BC, declared January 1 to be the beginning of the new year. ... During the Middle Ages,  the Church remained opposed to celebrating New Years.  January 1 has been celebrated as a holiday by Western nations for only about the past 400 years.

Many cultures celebrate New Year's day on March 21st, the Spring Equinox.

The name, given to the month of 'January', is derived from the ancient Roman name 'Janus' who presided over the gate to the new year.  He was revered as the 'God of Gateways', 'of Doorways' and 'of the Journey', later known as 'St. Januarius'. Janus protected the 'Gate of Heaven', known as the 'Lord of Beginnings', is associated with the 'Goddess Juno-Janus', and often symbolised by an image of a face that looks forwards and backwards at the same time. This symbolism can easily be associated with the month known as for many the start of a new year bodes opportunity, casting out the old and in with the new. It is the time when many reflect on events of the previous year and often resolve to redress or improve some aspect of daily life or personal philosophy. (http://www.egreenway.com/months/)  --submitted by Mary Colleen McAndrews


The Olde Year Now Away is Fled
(sung to Greensleeves) 13th Century

The olde year now away is fled,
The new year it is entered
Then let us now our sins down tread
And joyfully all appear
Let's be merry this holiday
And let us run with sport and play
Han sorrow, let's cast care away -
God send you a happy new year

Come, give us more liquor when I do call
I'll drink to each one in this hall
I hope that so loud I must not bawl
But unto me lend me an ear
Good fortune to my master send
And to my dame which is our friend
God bless us all, and so I end
And God send us a happy new year

--submitted by Mary Colleen McAndrews

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A Leaf From The Tree of Songs
by Adam Christianson

When harpers once in wooden hall
A shining chord would strike
Their songs like arrows pierced the soul
Of great and low alike

Aglow by hearth and candle flame
From burning branch to ember
The mist of all their music sang
As if to ask in wonder

Is there a moment quite as keen
Or memory as bright
As light and fire and music (sweet)
To warm the winter's night?

--submitted by Douglas Shawnesey

Never Will I Forget
by Michael Saxton

There came into my life one day
She, whom o'er my heart, holds sway
Her eyes, her smile,  they stole my breath
 Never will I forget
Her gentle laugh, her warmth of smile
Her subtle grace and artist's style
My love to her with no regret
Never will I forget
Abiding affection, I offered she
Dark peril cast, I had to leave
By despair and pain, her heart beset
Never will I forget
To return with hope, I had none
All we'd shared, I feared was gone
Could I blame her should she fret
Never will I forget
But time did heal, with gentle hand
A heart repaired, so soft and grand
Another chance would I be let
Never will I forget
All  she was, may yet again be
A chance at love returned to me
Her hand in mine, to be set
Never will I forget
Soft and warm, her kiss so fine
Her touch upon me so divine
Another chance to be mine yet
Never will I forget
For my Keriann,
Never will I forget

--submitted by Michael Saxton

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Did You Know?

The Tree of Life - also known as the world tree, is found in most cultures. It supports the universe and maintains the order of the cosmos. Its roots are often said to be in the underworld, its trunk to rise through this world and its branches to be in the heavens. At the tip of the tree is a bright star: In the northern Hemisphere this is often known as the North Star, which seems to be a still point in the midst of the whirling, chaotic skies. Yggdrasil, the world tree of ancient Norse mythology was revered because it contained every aspect of the world and represented continuity. Drawings of the great ash tree were commonly carved on runestones, hundreds of which can still be seen throughout Scandinavia. The world tree in particular, often marked the site of the omphalos. The Yakuts of Siberia believed that 'at the golden navel of the Earth' stands a tree with eight branches. The symbolic use of trees to mark the center of the world can be found in traditional cultures as varied as those of the Indians of America and Australian Aborigines.

Sacred Wood - Among the many Plains Indian tribes, visions were often sought in rituals that used the power of a sacred tree. Black Elk was an Oglala Sioux medicine man who encountered the world tree, which for the Sioux is a cottonwood, during a vision. In the vision he visited Harney Peak in the Black Hills of South Dakota. He was also given wooden objects (a bow, a cup and a stick that turned into a sacred tree) by the spirits which he was told would enable him to fulfill the vision and heal his people. For the ancient Germanic people, the cosmic axis existed in reality as well as in myth. A wooden pillar called Irminsul stood in the center of a sacred enclosure at Obermarsberg until Emperor Charlemagne destroyed it in AD 772 as part of his effort to convert the pagan Germans to Christianity. But the tradition of the cosmic axis did not entirely die out with the coming of Christianity to Europe. In some parts of Germany and Holland, it was the custom to train linden trees to grow in the shape of the axis. As the tree grew taller, it was trimmed so that it had three of four disc-like layers of foliage around the trunk. Frequently, the lowest level supported a wooden floor on which people were able to dance during festivals.

Mountain Myths - in Persian mythology, the world tree is called Gokart. It grew from the ocean on the first day of creation and is vital to the well-being of the whole universe, for it was thought to prevent death by yielding a nectar of immorality. Other peoples thought that the cosmic axis was a sacred hill or holy mountain. According to Persian legend, a mythical mountain called Haraberezaiti (Elburz) in Georgia is believed to be at the center of the world. Its peak touches the sky: the sun, moon, and stars revolve around it. Further east, in India, the Indus revere Mount Meru. Like Haraberezaiti, it has many levels, with the North Star at its summit. The great stepped pyramids of Mexico, the temples of Cambodia and the ancient ziggurats of Babylon are all man-made representations of mountains. Inside these sacred places the mysteries of the underworld are celebrated. In the Book of Genesis, the serpent tempts Eve to eat the forbidden fruit of the tree. In myth and legend throughout the world, a serpent often snakes around the tree of life, threatening the stability of the cosmic axis. In Norse mythology the world serpent coils around Yggdrasil, the world tree. When he writhes, the earth shudders, but no matter how much the snakes moves, the axis remains firm - a symbol of continuity and stability.  -- submitted by Samantha Golden (taken from Earth's Mysterious Places, Reader's Digest)


RECIPES of the MONTH

January Maple Snow Candy

Fill large pans with fresh, clean, firmly packed snow.  Boil real maple syrup until it reaches the soft-ball stage then pour it in a thin stream from a large spoon onto snow.  After syrup has started to harden,  1 tablespoon can be lifted in sections with a fork and twisted into elaborate shapes.  -- submitted by Downy Feather

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Chicken Stir-Fry

1/4 cup orange juice * 1 1/2 tbs cornstarch * 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts cut into strips * 3/4 cup chicken broth * 1 1/2 tbs soy souce * 2 1/2 tsp vegetable oil * 1 clove garlic, minced * 1 tbs minced fresh ginger or 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger * 1 1/2 snow peas or green beans * 1 medium red bell pepper cut into thin strips (about 1 cup) * 3/4 cup sliced green onion * 1 cup frozen broccoli, thawed * 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced * 2 cups white rice.

In a shallow glass bowl, combine orange juice and cornstarch, mix well. Stir in chicken. Cover and chill for 2 hours. Drain chicken, discard juice mixture. In a small bowl combine broth and soy sauce, set aside. In a wok or large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, stir-fry for 30 seconds. Add chicken, stir fry for 3 minutes. Add vegetables; stir-fry until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in broth mixture. Place 1/2 cup of rice on each serving plate. Top with the chicken mixture, dividing evenly.  -- submitted by Esmeralda Gibson

Cure-all Chicken Soup

Salt for cooking the rice * 2/3 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, fresh or frozen -- defrosted. * 1 cup long grain rice * 2 teaspoons vegetable oil * 1 large onion (for about 1 cup chopped) * 2 medium-size carrots (for about 1 cup chopped) * 3 medium-size ribs celery (for about 1 1/2 cups diced) * 1 clove fresh garlic, minced, or 1 teaspoon bottled minced garlic * 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh ginger or bottled minced ginger * 2 cans (about 14 ounces each) fat-free chicken broth, or 4 cups homemade chicken stock * 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Bring two cups lightly salted water to a boil in a two-quart saucepan. When the water comes to a boil, add the rice, stir, and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and simmer until the rice is tender, about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a four-quart or larger Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Peel the onion and finely chop it, adding it to the pot as you chop. Cut the partially defrosted or fresh chicken into bite-size pieces, adding them to the pot as you cut. When all of the chicken is in the pot, raise the heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring, until the chicken is almost cooked through, about four minutes. Peel and coarsely chop the carrots, adding them to the pot as you chop. Coarsely dice the celery, adding it to the pot as you dice. Add the garlic and ginger to the pot. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the celery is crisp-tender, about two minutes. Add the broth to the pot, raise the heat to high, and bring the soup to a boil. Then reduce the heat to medium and cook at a moderate boil to combine the flavors, five minutes. Season with black pepper.. To serve, spoon some rice into each bowl and top it with the soup. Serves 4.  -- submitted by Sarah McDonough


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Lost And Found
~ Of all the things I've lost in life .... I miss my mind the most ~

Lost: One Stetson, worn well. Brown with aged weather stains. Contact Rhett Shawnesey if found.

Lost: Red and green scarf on the toboggan trail near the lake. If found contact Heru al-Dawla.


Thoughts for the Month

January is here, with eyes that keenly glow,
A frost-mailed warrior
striding a shadowy steed of snow. -
Edgar Fawcett

Here's to thee, old apple tree
Whence thou mayest bud
Whence thou mayest blow
Whence thou mayest bear apples enow -
Wassailing Songs, England, January 5th

-- submitted by Sara Devonshire

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Will you remember me in a second?
Yes I will.
Will you remember me in a hour?
Yes I will.
Will you remember me in a year?
Of course, you're in my class.
Knock, knock
Who's there?
See you forgot me already!

Knock, knock
Who's there?
Olive
Olive who?
Olive you!

-- submitted by Lei McAndrews
 
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Advertisements

Winter Scented and Hued Candles -  bayberry in red, minty-pine in green are specially priced to welcome winter. Fill your home with these invigorating scents for a good uplift. Ask for Kathleen Frasier or Samantha Golden at the Candle Shop.

Winter Arrangements Special: Carnations with frosted tree branches in silver and blue with sparkles, at Lisette's Floral Shop. Wedding bouquets, anniversaries or any occasion.

Benzaiten Imports - receives new shipments weekly. Special this month: All items are on sale for the holidays.  Something for everyone..  Hours are from 9:00 am to dusk. We are located in the warehouse district. Owners:  Alexander McDonough and Garath MacShire.

The Needle and Spool Clothier - The blossom of poinsettias and the brilliance of mistletoe is all around.  All red and green, pre-made attire, is half off.  Any orders for ball gowns and tailored suits must be received, no later, than two weeks in advanced.

The BookStop -  Snow is falling and everyone needs a good book to curl up with.  Yuletide tales and almanac's are aplenty.  Not to mention books for children as a perfect stocking stuffer.  For Christmas, make a stop for a book.

Heathfield Orphanage - Gifts, food,  winter clothing and monetary offerings are greatly appreciated. Books in good shape are needed.  Inquire with Henna Barrett Suex with any questions.

McKnight Veterinary Clinic - at the McKnight estate in Heathfield. Donovan McKnight, DVM, and Katherine McKnight. We are trained in the treatment and care of all domestic and most exotic animals.  The estates are located just outside of Heathfield near Barrington Hospital.  Emergency care 24 hours a day.

Certain Somethings Shop - Special this month:   Lovely wool cloaks for the colder weather, each with a hand knitted scarf..  Our items are made by artisans from the Realms and we also carry imported items.  Hours are from nine until four.

Herbal Delights - located in Barrington Hospital, has teas and tinctures available to fight off all manner of ailments. Specials this month are tinctures to fight off colds, strengthen the immune system and prevent influenza.  Hours are from 9:00 am to dusk, with special openings as needed.

Sweet and Sassy Candy Shop - located just off the marketplace is having specials on chocolate Santa's, hard candy and peppermint candy canes.  Haypenny candy available.

Leather Shop -  Special continued from last month: Leather coats with choice of linings.   Free pair of wool lined gloves with each coat.

Deli Delights - Bring your sweetheart in for a slice of pie. Two for the price of one when you mention this ad. Kizzie Cohen

Butcher Shop - A pound at roast for half price when you mention this ad at the Butcher Shop. Open from Monday to Saturday from 9am til dusk. Ask for Ham Frasier.

Ceol m'anama (Music is my soul) Music shop - Carrying musical instruments, sheet music and more.  Special this month, all wind instruments.

Blue Marlin Inn and Tavern - is running a special on turkey dinners throughout this whole month. Reduce rate includes a tankard of ale or a glass of wine. Marlana Cherill proprietor.

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Job Finder

Contact Draven MacShire for: Barrister needed. Chimney Sweeps. Cobbler store position available. Beauty Salon available. Chiropractor needed to set up shop. Consular needed. Martial Arts Instructor needed. Dentist needed to set up office. Barber shop available. Dance Instructor needed. Tattoo Parlor proprietor wanted. Zoo Keeper for upcoming zoo. Men's Tailor needed.

Thanks to Job finder: Many positions are found every day from the needs of sailors and dock workers to shops and streamlined services. Any questions contact Draven MacShire

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??? Question Corner ???

1. A good friend pulls off a well conceived practical joke that plays on one of your foibles and makes you look ridiculous. How would you react?

2. By controlling medical research funds, you are in the position to guarantee that a cure would be found in fifteen years for any disease you choose. Unfortunately, no progress on any others would be made during that period. Would you target one disease?

**If you would like to reply to any of these questions and have it published in next month's issue, please submit the question with your answer to Lahoneee.**


Monthly Horoscope

Aquarius (Jan 21 - Feb 19) -- If you are in the right frame of mind, you can rattle through a crossword at great speed. There are times, though, when you can sit and stare at a puzzle for ages without solving a single clue. We can throw down our pens in despair convinced that we will never get any further. Some short while later, perhaps after a hot drink and a change of scenery, we can revisit the challenge and watch everything fall delightfully into place. It is much the same with your current conundrum. It may have perplexed you in the past, but it won't beat you today. Between now and the holidays, a revelation will change first your mind, then your life. -- submitted by Sassy Golden: Cainer's Horoscope


Where To Find It - Services Offered

Want to better your business?    Place a listing here!

Flowers - Lisette McTiel Frasier, Heathfield Commons.
Lumber - Jon McAndrews Lumber Mill, Ballicastle.
Wines - Mike McAndrews Vineyards, Heathfield;  Darren McCullen Vineyards, Ballicastle.

Leather, Beef, Horses - Maurice, Joseph and Rory McDonough, McDonough Ranch Heathfield.
Wool, Yarn & Cloth - McCormick Sheep Ranch, Heathfield.
Cider, Flour, Grains, Apples, Milk, Eggs, Vegetables - Draven MacShire, Ravanna of Heathfield.
Potcheen - Sean DeBurgh, Rhett Shawnesey, Dunshire of Heathfield.
Baked Goods - Teri's Sweets Shoppe, Ballicastle.
Shipping, Trips by Sea - Rhett Shawnesey, Dunshire, or Bovee Shipping, Heathfield.
Kennels  - Meadowland Kennels, Patrick and Edward McAndrews, Ballicastle.
Pottery  - Devon DeWinter, Heathfield.
Shipwrights  - Collin McAndrews and Thomas Douglas, Heathfield Port.
Exotic Imports - Xandar McDonough and Garath MacShire, Heathfield Port.
Linen and Lingerie - Marcy McGuire, Heathfield Commons.
Candles and Crystals - Kathleen Cleary Frasier and Samantha Golden, Heathfield Commons.
Tea House - Iwakura Sachiko, Heathfield Commons.
Clothing - Seamstress - Acacia Sterling, Heathfield Commons.
Fortune Teller - Nataliya Andree, Heathfield Commons.
Barrington Hospital - Gates Barrington, Sara Devonshire, Heathfield.
Clocks - Aleric and Niklas Traugott, Heathfield Commons.
Blacksmiths; Horse Shoeing, Swords, Daggers - Lochlan Kearney, Ballicastle; Brian McAndrews, Heathfield Commons.
Leatherwork and Sheaths - Moncha McAndrews, Heathfield Commons.
Surveyor - Robert Frasier, Ballicastle.
Herbs Shop - Sara Devonshire, Barrington Hospital Lobby.
Book Shop - Mariah McCormick, Heathfield Commons.
Orphanage - Henna Barrett Suex, Heathfield.
Archeologist - Kitavari Griffin, Heathfield.
Apothecary - Sinead NiAhearne Frasier and Aislin NiFaelen, Heathfield.
Raw Ores - Joseph McAndrews, Ballicastle.
Smelter - Eddie McAndrews, Ballicastle.
Private Investigators - Joseph McDonough, Jacob Anderson, Mercy LaCorte and Clark Davis, Heathfield.
Furniture - Sean MacGrath.
Veterinarians - Donovan and Katherine McKnight.
Frasier Signs - Kyle Frasier, Heathfield Commons and Ballicastle.
Sweet and Sassy Candy Shop- Carienn and Corina Turlough, Heathfield Commons.
Certain Somethings Shop - Sorcha Beirne, Heathfield Commons.
Leather Goods:  Jaelysa
Dairy Products: NorthStar Dairy run by Allan Cleary
Glass Maker: Isolde Fitzpatrick, Heathfield Commons
Blue Marlin Inn and Tavern: Marlana Cherill Proprietor, Barrett's Bay
Ceol m'anama (Music is my soul) Music Shop: Lorelei Barre, Heathfield Commons
Bowyer: Fearghus Frasier

Many thanks to those who contribute to this newspaper. Any additions, corrections or wishing to run an ad please contact Lahoneee.


Gossip from the Wharf
"If you believe these - I have lands in Rhydin to sell you"
by The Wharf Crones - Matty and Pearl

All gossip that comes in through the port, and places least expected,  you can be sure that Matty and Pearl know every little tidbit and then some added. Embellishing is a way of life to make the tale far more colorful. If something is not certain nor clear, it is easy to fill in those gaps; there is nothing like assuming. They will make sure all gossip gets around come rain or shine and the sharing of a tea biscuit. There is a place for Drama Queens.


**With so much romance in the air, we've had to invest in a few fans to flutter in front of our faces. Certainly fodder for wandering minds of princes on white stallions coming to the rescue. We're helpless damsels! Although it would be hard for me to swing up onto a horse so one might consider bringing a wagon I can roll into the back before galloping off to the horizon with their catch.

**We got to watch the harbor master get down on his knee in the middle of the street with a lass who accepted. Had she not I was ready to push Pearl in her stead! Alas! His brother would be a fine catch too, we need to devise a plan to use. Pearl was getting palpations watching him fight in the brawl that broke out in the run down tavern.

**The private Investigator and clock makers hadn't been around in a while but still as good looking as ever. Here are men that would be a challenge to land, perhaps we could come up with something that needs investigating or a new tick tock for the docks. Plans. Plans. We need plans. Snagging plans. We need to put our heads together. Ouch! Not literally! Add to those the bounty hunters. We made a list and checked it twice but we must have been naughty over nice since we didn't find a man under either of our trees.

**Oh, if only we could take off twenty or more years and a good hundred pounds, we'd have a larger selection. Although Pearl can't afford ten pounds or she'll be blown away with the next breeze. I need to fatten her up so I don't look so much bigger. Otherwise I'll be known as Jack and she will become known as Zipper.

**One of the lads is headed for the title of Casanova. Will his brother take care of the surplus?

**We've been keeping our eye on that frontiers man as he seems to be bringing gifts. First a ship and now a pair of horses. We just need to get in line, I'll even slip him the ring to offer. Hint. Hint.

**We got a glimpse of the dark writer but he seems to be as elusive as his writing. He is found on the Escort page, if only we could get us some of those coins and pretend we're from another land. I think he'd be perfect for Pearl. Her giggles affirmation enough.

**There was much to do over the one that left a few broken hearts behind only to return. Beastly man but we'd take anyone we can. We can howl under a full moon if that's what it takes! That is if the lasses don't forgive him, he'll be lonely with Pearl and I around. Look out demons, here we come! We're getting desperate as that list of eligible men is dwindling by courting or even engagement. Soon we'll have to resort to drastic measures. You should see Pearl's face light up with that suggestion!

**There are a few new faces in town, we should introduce ourselves. "Hello, I'm Matty and this is Perl, need a wife?" Pearl thinks we may need to work on that greeting a little. We've been hanging around a few places more than others such as the spar hall. More fodder for our already overactive imaginations. I actually managed to squeeze into one of the hollow armor suits set up on display. It was like being in a sauna after a while, leaving puddles of sweat to form around those tin boots. Luckily the men sparring were too intent on their sport to notice. We were intent on their sport!

**We'd be out snagging us a few of those older snowballers if we could ever get to the point of dodging the white long enough to take one down and drag him off. It might become a new winter sport.

**King and a Harpist? Perhaps the lass will woo the one none other has been able to. Gently flows her music weaving under the stoic to find the heart well barricaded? Pearl is giggling again saying I'm becoming a poet. Or will she succumb to the charms of one of her dates? For a lass who has reservations she has been seen in the company of a few men taking her to various places. Will the Giant continue to sleep as Jack steals his golden harp?

**The lass from another lands has been spending time around and about here. We still haven't be able to determine, she's as hard to read as the harpist, what draws her hither. Be it the fever of win or lose by the draw of a card? The cuteness of a puppy? The swashbuckling ways of a captain or the charm of a prominent citizen?

**All along the light-tower, Prince kept the view while all the people came and went, there has been another too. We tried to interrogate Prince but he only Meoooowwed on what his Keeper has been about. Does the fire she's been keeping bright for those out at sea, see an even brighter one shining from her of late?

**She loves me, she loves me not, she loves me, she loves me not. He loves me, he loves me not, he loves me, he loves me not. Both Pearl and I have gotten a crick in our neck! We decided to give up the ghost on this one. Word in warning, don't have the little sculptress be your bodyguard unless the enemy is hiding in trees or rafters.

**One lady in waiting was smuggled off by a Shaman while another smuggled off one to his farmlands. This must be a new trend? We've made up signs to wear: Wanted smuggler who turns to snuggler. Willing and available. Pearl made them look real pretty too with lots of doodles in the margins.

**Will the earth elemental be the new growing grounds for the horticulturist? Can love take root and flourish? I could get into talking on planting seeds but that would have Pearl all contorted rolling on the floor giggling.

**Did Porthos kiss and make up with the one lass he had so much trouble with or was it another? He might consider opening up a kissing booth for we'd get in line. Pearl is saying he is too young but we have daughters! Has Aramis and Athos shared their lips yet? They might consider a joint effort along with a few of their friends. Share the love or in this case share the lip and for once we'll not be saying don't give me any lip.

**Has the reclusive Adonis miner been out to spread his charm again? Will he get a following or take the fall. Will his single brothers follow suit. It has long been anticipated. Puppies, puppies, everywhere if only we could so wiggle our way into the hearts of men. Maybe if we slobber, beg and become lap warmers? Pearl is giggling again!

**We're all for the idea of a male auction too. This idea passed around has our vote. Any surprise there?

**We still want to know what a corny-yoon is!


WANTED

500 Gold Coins Offered on Black Doom, Black Beard, Stirling Scourge each ... Dead or alive. If all are brought in, a bonus of 500 will be added making it 2000

Crimes:  Murder, Plundering and pillaging innocents, Thievery, Arson, Kidnapping, and Rape. Slavery.  Reward is high for any who brings these scoundrels to justice.

WANTED

Wanted Alive: Two Highwaymen known as Murph and Billy. 50 Gold Coins Reward for information that leads to their whereabouts. 200 Gold Coins for their capture.

Crimes:  Thievery and harassment. 


((Disclaimer: any pictures used of actors/actresses is solely for how that fictional character may look, no claims made. This is a fictional newspaper created for entertainment in the role-playing world. Articles from books, websites, etc., are credited. If any author has a problem (as it is a form of advertisement for them) with their credited works being depicted, please contact me and they will be promptly removed.))

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