*===+++===*  Headline News  *===+++===*

A gathering at Salaria was the first of its kind and heavy was the amount of guards for this unique event. Our own Queen Honeee was reported making her way to Salaria to meet up with three other Queens. Victoria of Devonshires, Julia of Telarus and of course the Queen consort of Salaria. There was a small banquet, flowers from the Regent and a game of archery. Guests included Sarah McDonough of Heathfield, Isabeau Quinn of Heathfield and Constance Hawkley of Devonshires. Future Tea Parties are planned to keep rapport between kingdoms in a pleasant way. The news media will keep track of any new developments in this area.

Large amounts of food and grains have been stored in the castles in case of any emergencies during the course of the winter months. Enough stored for those of all the lands and any other allies needing assistance. Cabins throughout the area mountains have been restocked by the Rangers as emergency shelters. Autumn's glory has been here and gone and the earth left blanketed in her colorful foliage. Plans are being made for some future events to be held.

It was a comfortable setting of chairs set in a circle and that fireplace alight.  To think of the King's Men, those dubbed Four Horsemen, in such an environment made for a curious idea.  But, made them human all the more too.  Each had their own personality that showed; with a meaning or not.

I arrived on that cold evening to speak with each.  To learn about their common cause and each as an individual.  Lazare Carno, Dana de Vimeure, Trevor Cairns, and Vincent de Beauvais.

So what brought these men together, making them a complete group that could rival legions in how they worked?  Cairns explained the details of the groups creation.  Even the mention of a certain main who made the entire combination possible.  "One man with insight and a goal for the better of the von Rundstedt heir. Sir Lyons."

But I needed to know if it was simply a fiber or strand of uniform need that kept them together in that deeper-than-brothers bond; or was there another reason.  Carno enlightened me in the wake of the question.  "There is something each of us share, a common bond, and through that bond, we do, yes, serve the King but there is more ... there is a Oneness because of it ... which extends deeper, as you say, deeper than just servitude.  Had it not been for Lyons, we may have found one another by ourselves.  But who is to know?  Lyons brought us together before that had to be tested."

Each agreed that this was a truth.  The honest appeal of what kept them in unison.  How did they think of one another though; without this Sir Lyons to draw them up.  de Vimeure  helped to shed light on the query.  "When we are divided so to speak, there is still the connection, it exists .. but when we come together.   When we come together, the energies converge, intensify ... Garath Lyons knew what he was doing.  As do we, Miss DeLanyea."

Carno continued later, to explain the idea in more culinary terms.  "It is like, you might say, a stew.  You need not just meat but a medley of vegetables and seasonings.  You could eat the meat separate, or the carrots ... but together ... ahhh ... together."

So each of the King's Men share a common bond.  Yet, beyond the friendship is a single man.  Very much the same in one to the other.  Another related faction.  The hopes for a fine hearth and home.  Family and smiles to fill the rest of their years.  All but Vincent seemed pleased or voiced the idea.

Perhaps, Vincent is another story.  More, each of the Horsemen becomes a fresh tale of its own.  What I did find in this interview, was that the deeper level they worked on together.  With the combination of forces to aide in the protection of these lands,  I believe it would be safe to say we are in extremely capable hands.

The Four Horsemen.  Only an Apocalypse to those that might oppose them.  Action or idea.

Life Around Here

It always makes news when one of high standing life holds new intrigue. It has been a long time since the elusive Druid Prince had shown interest in anyone in particular. Rarely seen but always there to help when needed. It was in the past few months a change was seen in the man. At first it wasn't clear but gradually the signs of romance developed between him and the lovely Isabeau. For those with a bit of romance in their heart, be sure to keep track of this newly developing couple. He has asked to court the one. Although far from February and Valentine's day, one could wonder with the budding romances cropping up it wasn't spring. Distinguished figures like his lordship Malcolm Douglas, even his brother Thomas have hints surfacing, cupid has been at work early this year. These winds of change may well see their wayward brother Keifer return. One can wonder for his background if he will take up the spot vacated under the Shipwrights. Upon those same winds, word has been received that Brogan Frasier will be returning Falkirk while Garath and Velvet MacShire to Ravanna.

A warm welcome goes out to Joseph Walsh, a friend of Collin McAndrews who has come on a visit and decided to stay the winter. You can find him mostly down at the docks as he is captain of The Storm Cloud docked in Barrett's Bay.  Niklas Traugott is reunited with his family here and a warm welcome extended. He can be found around Traugott's clock shop or the Thistle. Word is out there is another baby Frasier in the making, Congratulations to Patrick and Sinead for this upcoming event. The Halloween Bash at Devonshires was a huge success and even if no prizes were won by those in these lands, everyone had a grand time. A fun night for all who participated.

Births: None this month. Marriages: None this month. Engagements: None this month.

??? Question Corner ???

For a person you loved deeply, would you be willing to move to a distant country knowing there would be little chance of seeing friends or family again?

If you would like your reply published in next month's issue, please submit the question and your answer to Lahoneee.

Advertisements

Falkirk Downs Racetracks - Weekly races. The tracks will be closing down at the end of November for the winter. Harsh weather will have fewer races during this month for the safety of the animals.

Assortment of Thanksgiving Candles are now available at the Crystal and Candle Shop. Ask for Kathleen or Sassy.

The Needle and Spool Clothier is having a end of the season special.  All summer fashions are now set for half price.  Any alterations that might need to be done for the apparel will be offered at 10% off the normal price.  Make your early orders for the Yuletide rush.  Anything placed after the 30th of November will not be ready in time for gifts.

Heathfield Orphanage will be accepting special donations for the impending holidays.  Gifts, food, and monetary offerings are greatly appreciated.  Coats and other winter wear are also needed for the colder months.  Inquire with Henna Barrett Suex about any questions.

Anyone wishing to run an ad please contact Lahoneee.

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

Lost -  Box containing various colors of body paint and one loin cloth. Contact Victor Cleary.

Lost - Drawing of what appears to be the part of a male's anatomy in biology diagram. If found, return to Isabeau Quinn on behalf of the Consort.

Found - Bag of marbles. Anyone missing their marbles please contact Matthew Myers, Thistle Tavern.

Found - Stallion. Large, black coat with a star on his muzzle just above his eyes, and front left hoof is white as well. Small triangular notch in his right ear. No other symbols or markings. Contact Devon or Quinn Winters.

Found - One red Devil's tail. Contact Victor Cleary.

Anyone wishing to be part of the Paper, contact Lahoneee. Many thanks to those who contributed to this newspaper. 

Where To Find It - Services Offered

Want to better your business? Place a listing here!

Recipes of the Month

IRISH GRUNT SOUP (anraith bhainbh)

  1 dozen grunts * 1 lump butter * chopped chives * flour * salt     pepper * hot water or milk and water

Clean and scale the grunts. Place in a pot and cover well with hot water, cooking until tender. Lift out of the pot and remove the skin and bones. Put the chives in the stock and boil for a quarter of an hour. Add a good lump of butter. When this is melted, mix in enough blended flour to thicken the stock. Now add the fish and boil for five minutes more. Serve with broken up boiled potatoes.  -- grunts are young perch -- **Teri Douglas

                       IRISH LEEK AND POTATO SOUP                       (anraith presatai agus cainneann)

 1 pound potatoes * 1 pound beef * 2 pints stock * 2 tbs cream   1oz butter * 1 cup croutons * 1 stick white celery * salt * pepper

Dice the potatoes and chop up the leeks and celery. Melt the butter in a pan, add the vegetables and toss thoroughly. Replace the lid and cook lightly for at least five minutes without sizzling. Now add the stock, (meat or chicken). Half milk and water will serve if you have no stock. Season to taste and simmer for about an hour. Fry a cupful of croutons and whip the cream. Place croutons in a soup tureen and pour in the soup. Stir in the whipped cream and serve immediately. **Teri Douglas

IRISH BROWN BREAD (aran donn)

1 pound coarse wheat meal * 1/2 pound white flour * 3/4 pint sour milk * 2 tsp salt * 2 tsp baking soda

Mix the wheat meal flour with the white flour, adding salt and soda. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk, mixing with a wooden spoon. Knead dough into a ball with floured hands. Turn onto a floured board and flatten by hand into a circle about on and a half inches thick. Take a floured knife and make a cross on top so that it is easily broken in quarters when baked. Bake for twenty five minutes at 425 (f) then reduce heat to 350 (f) and allow fifteen more minutes. This bread should not be cut until six hours after it is taken from the oven. Instead of the sour milk, buttermilk or fresh milk can be used. **Teri Douglas

IRISH WHISKEY PUNCH (puins bheath-uisge)

    1 Measure Irish whiskey * 1 1/2 tsp brown sugar * cloves *    sliced lemon

Heat a glass goblet, put in the brown sugar with enough boiling water to dissolve it. Add the whiskey, cloves and sliced lemon and top up with more boiling water. This is a traditional Irish nightcap. The word 'whiskey' comes from the Irish Gaelic, uisaebeatha, pronounced 'whishkebaha'. **Teri Douglas

Did You Know?

First Footing --

The ritual of "First Footing" is used in many parts of Britain and Scotland. It is believed that the first person to cross the threshold of a house at the start of the new year, represented what was to come throughout the rest of the year. If it was someone who was old, poor and decrepit, then your year was going to be a most unfortunate one. However, if it was a strong, rich, handsome young man, then your year was going to be most prosperous.

To help direct the Fates, as it were, it is usually arranged that the very first person to set foot across your threshold should be the best. Many times the most handsome, strongest man in the village is given the task of visiting each and every house, to be invited in, or two or three would cover the territory if it was large. Tradition dictates that he be dark haired, definitely not red haired, except in parts of Yorkshire and that he bear gifts. There might be salt or a green branch for fertility, bread for food, wine for sustenance, money for riches, and coal or peat for warmth. No householder, adhering to this tradition, should allow anyone to enter the house after midnight New Year's Eve until the First Footer had been in to assure luck for the coming year.

You may wish to start seeking out tall, dark and handsome men for a whole new reason!

-- submitted by Kathleen Cleary

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.

**Get out your rosary beads even if you don't believe, there's a roaming lass from foreign lands predicting futures of anyone with a coin by way of her devil cards.

**A peek in the Thistle found one strange creature called a Baudalaire being affectionate with a Seamstress, will she be making doll size kilts? Will there be romance budding or nubbing? Will it be making a nest in her hair?

**The Orphanage got a new wagon filled with hay for rides. Will there be more than the ones for the children late at night?

**What lass who prefers leathers and swords to pearls and roses was seen dressed in a gown and accompanying a certain tall, dark and handsome man as any other lord of the lands? Word has it they were seen riding away from the city in a surrey, and returned after sunset.

**That same leather clad lass was watched by a stoic King's man while she practiced.  Could his interest go beyond giving her advice on fighting? Will she become the newest HOT topic in the romance intrigue area? We're watching!

**That same King's man seems to be displeased in a certain comrade's sister getting all dolled up. Finery to perfection in etiquette with crossing both T's and the little hats worn as good as thorns. On the flip side it has been discovered she has been sneaking out in lad's bibbed overalls and straw hats.  Will there be no more lip licking?

**A new bard around singing his songs and wooing the woman has brought the scorn of one frowning King's man. Is the lass in leathers taking up a collection of men? Three in tow, how many more will succumb to her charms or has it been the threat of her sword?

**A Sir on his knees was spotted in what was suspected was a proposal of the very comrade's sister we've been keeping track of. Will the King's men accept this fairly unknown or will it have an uprising and blades to clash? Do we have another romance intrigue to watch? We're suspecting a yes on that. We want to know.

**Back to the Thistle we go only to find the brother- type friend of the shipwright Prince on all fours hovering over something on the floor. It turned out to be a certain Princess and she looked enthralled. Hard to tell when it was suspected she took a hay ride at night with the Prince himself. The tangled webs are getting better all the time. Who will come out on top?

**They will surely keep us guessing when by the very next day that Prince was seen kissing the breath out of one Lordship's daughter that was the focus of talk to start. Have we gone full circle?

**What of the King's man? He'd lost his seat when the chair was set with a new cushion in his absence. He has been seen lifting from HIS chair with the cushion stuck in conformity to his tightest cheeks. Will this be all the King's man needs? It wasn't really a rod that was stuck but a large button from a tuck. So his frown and grumpy personality is really from being plugged up.

**So Little Bo Peep has come down away from her sheep only to be followed and startled by the Big Bad Wolf. The howling in the night can leave one to wonder will she succumb to the wild? The Crones want to know and have been venturing out even later at night to find the answers.

**The eldest of the next generation of McAndrews is back from his travels. Speculation was out on why he was sent abroad for a spell with so much mischief the lad got into that even perplexed his father. The Elder being noted to be King of Bedevilment. Was there a challenge for his throne? Lad was already having trouble find him in near naked women's chests. Will he end up tackling the ladies onto the tavern floors again? The Crones want to more than know, we want to watch!

**A poetic Alterian was seen leaving the Rose and Thorn with a whopper of a shiner, was he learning to dance or box with the vivid Spanish dancer? Does the Forest King have a rival or will the poet plea poetic license? Will the king go back to his jungle?

**Across the waters from the fair Isle of Salaria comes wind of the Consort in an uproar over a missing diagram she had put much effort into.   Makes one wonder what could possible be the reason?

**The spare Prince seems to have had a run in with the desert Princess, though in the end a locked terrace door and a rousing battle to release her ended said battle.  Though the war is not yet over!

**Dock rat meets Prince.  What will come of it is yet to be seen, keep a close watch.

**The studious male of the Plantagenet household was seen leaving a certain Heathfield theater not too long past.  Could it be he has taken a sudden liking to the arts?  Or could there be another, more spicy, reason?

**Tiolan holds many noble citizens, the most recent a Duke in chains?  The Regent may turn a blind eye if for no other reason than to spare the poor fellow the dungeon, though he may soon think the dungeon a haven in comparison!

WANTED

Captain "Blood Bath" Black ... Dead or alive.

Crimes: High treason against England and Spain, Murder, Plundering and pillaging innocents, Thievery, Arson, Kidnapping, and Rape.  50,000 Gold for any who brings this scoundrel to justice.