Covering Heathfield, Ballicastle, Tyremoor, Innis Daingneach, Kildare, Hedgebrier, surrounding areas and Allies.     Issue 10-05
((--Disclaimer: any pictures used of actors/actresses is only for how that fictional character may look, no claims made.--))

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


Association of Nations Treaty - Two signed.

Friendly relations has been set in writing between the castles here and Salaria.  Another such treaty was signed between the lands here and Telarus. Both official documents are on file and can be viewed in the library archives.

The King and Queen have returned from their journey to Luneberg. Welcome home!


Devil Dancing  
by Portia O. DeLanyea

'Beware of dancing with a McAndrews devil under the wash of the pale moonlight.' That is the warning that I was given before embarking on the dangerous journey to find out how much of the cautionary words, were true.

The night was crisp and the moon did shine with a pale glow that could hardly be copied.  I did have my speculations and fears. Were I in mortal danger, surely the bells would have sounded in my mind? Instead, a light dance was commenced with a gentle song to help the airy glide.  It was pleasant and perhaps there was a little lightheaded ideas spilling through my head.  But nothing that would be overly dangerous.

I later spoke with Seamus -- the man who gave me this dance -- and we discussed the effects it created for the Devil himself.  "The Devil is choosy in what fair maiden chosen, one of beauty that is far deeper than the physical. One not clumsy on her feet but can move like the gentle breeze that accompanies the dance. The Moon does expect to be pleased. His heart races in tune to his feet, to have and to hold under the pale moonlight without expectations but a world in itself woven beneath their feet as they spiral above all the turmoil's of life below."  He offered this insight, before finishing.  "The Moon does play her own magic that melts around and lifts those beneath her silvery light to another dimension be it of the mind or physical."

So is it just magic that leads the night and the avoidance of anything physical?  I asked and he offered a rather cryptic reply.  "Power is in the mind, if discredited then it fails. If nourished while others all around you say it can't be done while doing it ... says a lot in itself. Each has to find out their limitations or ... discovered they are not limited at all."

So the question remains.  Is it truly dangerous to dance with a McAndrews during the night of a pale moon?  A conclusion that I have reached is simple; no and yes.  It would depend on the woman and her ideals.  A woman with fanciful ideas of romance and fantasy might swoon at the very twirl and glide of feet over a field or river bank.  While one, who is more experienced or knowing of how the world flows, might enjoy the offering and walk away with her head.  (Perhaps her mind would be a little foggy, the McAndrews are dashing men.)

So as advice to any fair maiden that is tempted to dance with these Devils, at any moment, night or day; enjoy the moment and let your head soar.  Anything it leads too after that moment is the workings of all that is higher and not a false hope. Fiction fighting reality.

Dance away maidens, dance.


Life Around Here

Congratulations to all the Winners of the First Annual Highland Games of Heathfield. They are as follow: Caber Toss Winner - Joseph A. McAndrews; Hammer Toss Winner - Kitavari Griffin; Tug-of-War Winners - The Ladies Devon Winters, Gelace MacNeils, Kiana Monahan, Linn NiFarquhar, Mairenn MacNeils, Mingmei Pau; Haggis Hurl Winners - Branwyn Anwyl and Matthew Myers; Bonnie Knees Winner  - Matthew Myers.

In the June Telarus Event, Tournament of Champions, the over all winner of this Tournament would be named King's Champion. This title went to Gerrard MacShire. Congratulations!

In the Telarus 1st Annual Horse and Rider Show, First Place was swept by Acacia Sterling and her Steed Warlock! Second Place was a Tie, earned by Xander McDonough , and his Steed Baariq and Duchess Grace McCade and her Steed Pashmina! Congratulations to all!

In the Devonshires Event of Greek Games, Eddie McAndrews was crowned King for his silver tongue. As recorded that evening -- He went to a bent knee in front of Victoria where she was seated, adjusting his toga as he knelt so nothing showed having her blush without even words! Taking her hand in his with a brush of his thumb against the smooth texture of skin while dusty blue eyes locked as he spoke.. "There is many a devil to roam with a silver tongue that would lift you away on the wings of words compared to the few that are golden. Those of silver will spin you around in a heady sonnet comparing your beauty to that which glorifies nature's bounty. Hair spun like the finest silks found in exotic lands and the texture of your skin and scent like butterfly wings. Lips like the dew kissed petals of wildflowers on a summer's morn, a drink from which would be as tasting the nectar of gods. How your body curves and graceful  flow like a symphony in motion as luring as a siren's call. Or how your voice rivals the sweetest of songs sung by the nightingale at its purest. The golden tongue, however, will speak on the inner beauty that shines from your eyes reflecting the purest of heart and soul. The words may be fewer and not in prose but will speak on the kind of beauty that will never fade while silver tongues still their praise with age." A wink given of blue eyes as well that dimpled smile to spread. "Hold out for the gold which is far more valuable than silver." With one last brush of her hand he lifted from the bend of knee to stand. Then stepped away to allow another.

That same evening our very own Isabeau Quinn was crowned Queen of the Festivities. As recorded that evening -- Leaving her nerves behind, she gathered herself. She would be as soft and radiant as new fallen snow. Gypsy's mane of sable-in-shadow swept up in a profusion of curls and left to fall, beribboned in white to evoke visions of a tumbling snow fall. Dark eyes, left to remain downcast would be heightened with a touch of kohl, making them seem deeper, endlessly luminous and liquid. And for her lips, the soft swell of them beckoning the promise of sweetness were made all the more so by the glisten of carmine. Dusky, amber hued skin would be deepened like the touch of the new sun awakening the Earth after a long, long winter - supple were the muscles of her upper arms that were banded in silver stamped into the shape of spheres, like the full moon against the velvet of a dark, star less sky. Of Krisi she may have been if not by birth herself, then by that of her father. She wore a gown styled in their fashion of those of Hellas, the Greeks. High waisted, and gathered beneath her breasts with a kirtle of stamped silver, slitted to show the length of bronzed legs beneath she moved with a quiet grace that bespoke her D'Angeline heritage. When she smiled, it was with no little humor hearing Linn's words and she blushed deeply before bowing gently, flashing the bead work that adorned her gown ... making her shimmer like the bosom of earth under a blanket of snow. If she was nervous at all, it never showed on her features .. but she wasnt one to remain long upon the stage and with bitten lip retreated after those few moments.

Births: A daughter, Elizabeth Ann McAndrews, was born July 28th to Brian and Moncha McAndrews. Triplet sons, Bryan Michael, Charles Robert and Rory Edward, were born to King Chadrick and Danielle Douglas McAndrews, August 15.  A son, Sean Robert, was born August 20th to Stephen (Nick) and Teri MacKenzie Douglas. A son, Cahir Daniel Frasier, was born September 9th to Daniel and Shiloh Frasier.

Marriages: Patrick Frasier and Sinead NiAhearne took their vows on June 22nd, becoming man and wife. Trevor Cairns and Taharka J'Atar were married on September 15th.

Engagements: Zaphnath JAtar to Autumn MacShire.


??? Question Corner ???

If you could spend one year in perfect happiness but afterward would remember nothing of the experience, would you do so? If not, why not?

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


Monthly Horoscope

Brought to you by Moiread OGealach

ARIES
(Mar. 21- April 20)
You can make money if you are wise in your choices. Travel will be on your mind, but you should be sure that you've got all your work up-to-date. Pleasure trips will be a form of healing for your emotional state of mind. Be prepared to neutralize any threats. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Sunday.

 TAURUS
(Apr. 21- may 21)
  Don't sign up for too many extra activities or you'll have trouble fulfilling your obligations. Investments may be misrepresented this month. Deception is apparent. Look into ways to make your home more comfortable. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday.

 GEMINI
(May 22-June 21)
  You may have the opportunity to get involved in some interesting conversations. You will feel so much better about yourself if you can control your addictions. Trips will be more than adventurous. Opportunities to get together with friends will be enlightening and entertaining. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Wednesday.

 CANCER
(June 22-July 22)
  Relatives may be less than easy to deal with. Your mate will be pushing you to do things that you really don't want to do. Try to enlist the help of those you trust in order to fulfill the demands being made of you. If you can't trust someone, question the connection. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Wednesday.

 LEO
(July 23-Aug 22)
  If you can't get ahead in the company you're with, perhaps it's time to move on. Property investments should payoff. Major job changes or opportunities to get ahead professionally are apparent. You should visit a friend or relative who hasn't been feeling up to par. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday.

 VIRGO
(Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)
  Don't be a pest or a troublemaker this month. Your words will be taken out of context if you're evasive with coworkers or employers. You must not allow them to force you to rush. You may want to pull out some of those unfinished project you've got tucked away. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Wednesday.

 LIBRA
(Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)
  Refrain from overspending on entertainment or luxury items. Social activities that involve the whole family will be enjoyable. Overstatement will be your downfall. Be fair, not colorful. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday.

 SCORPIO
(Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
  Your partner's a little jumpy. Heed the advice given by family or old reliable friends. Don't second guess yourself, just go to it. Make plans that will take you to exotic destinations. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Friday.

 SAGITTARIUS
(Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)
  Hobbies will be good for your emotional well being. Don't overdo it. You need to enjoy yourself. You will meet exciting new people through interest groups or functions that you attend with your children. Children or friends may try to talk you into lending them money. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Sunday.

 CAPRICORN
(Dec 22.- Jan. 20)
  Get motivated and follow up on some self-improvement resolutions. Pamper yourself; the self esteem it brings you will be most gratifying. You can make financial gains through investments and dealing with other people's money. You may have problems with those you live with. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Monday.

AQUARIUS
(Jan. 21 -Feb. 19)
  Take care of matters involving institutions or government agencies. You should make sure that your personal papers are in order. Check into art objects or precious stones. You can do well in group endeavors. Opportunities will come through long term investments. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Friday.

 PISCES
(Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
  Exercise programs will be effective. Don't make excuses. Remain calm and you'll shine. Passion should be your goal. Don't hesitate to voice your ideas and opinions. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Sunday.


Anyone wishing to be part of the Paper, contact Lahoneee. 

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

Found - Petticoat, large bust size in an old hollow log at the lake. Contact Seamus McAndrews.

Found - One petite Ladies sandal. Contact Prince Andrew MacNeil to see if it fits.

Lost -  One imitation female, that was filled with air. (Blow up Doll). It was last seen floating across the lake. If found, please return to Sobekhotep Manor, as Jakki is missing his playtoy horribly.


Thought for the Day

Dance like no one is watching. Sing like no one is listening. Love like you've never been hurt and live like it's heaven on Earth. - Mark Twain -  submitted by Sara Devonshire


Advertisements

Falkirk Downs Racetracks - Weekly races.

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

Benzaiten Imports has received a new shipment of merchandise from India, and the Far East.  Carved boxes, exotic statues, beautiful jewelry and wonderful perfumes are just some of the new items.  We are now carrying spices and some wines from these lands.   Be sure to take note of our display of oriental armor. Hours are from  9:00 am to dusk. We are located in the warehouse district. Owners:  Alexander McDonough and Gareth MacShire

New Barrister in Heathfield. Office located upon the cliffs that over look Barretts Bay. Carlotta Basinstoke is now accepting clients. Legal affairs to be handled are the following, but not limited to:  Contract negotiations, land deal closings, Legal advisor of personal affairs, prenuptial agreements, trade negotiations, and legal representation before the magistrate.  Through the month of October, 10% will be reduced from all fees. If made the Executor of Estate, all the above services will be included for one low monthly fee.

Dockside Tavern and Inn, located at Barretts Bay. October specials:  Rooms rented by the hour, with companion furnished, you'll get an extra hour free of charge. That's two hours for the price of one. One free drink and dessert with every meal purchased. Free dinner provided for all guests who rent one of the rooms at the Inn. Happy hour special, to run from 6 p.m - 10 p.m.  Pitcher of ale, grog, or mead only 8 copper. Glasses of rum or whiskey, only 1 silver.  Peel and eat shrimp, 1 pound, to be provided free with first drink order, all others after until the end of happy hour to cost only 2 silver a pound.

Anyone wishing to run an ad please contact Lahoneee.


Where To Find It - Services Offered

Want to better your business? Place a listing here!

Flowers - Lisette McTiel, Heathfield Commons.
Lumber - Jon McAndrews Lumber Mill, Ballicastle.
Wines - Mike McAndrews Vineyards, Heathfield;  Darren McCullen Vineyards, Ballicastle.
Leather, Beef, Horses - Maurice and Rory McDonough, McDonough Ranch Heathfield.
Wool, Yarn & Cloth - McCormick Sheep Ranch, Heathfield.
Cider, Flour, Grains, Apples - Draven MacShire, Ravanna of Heathfield.
Poteen - 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.
Horse Shoeing, Swords, Daggers - Lochlan Kearney Smithy, Ballicastle.
Kennels  - Meadow Kennels, Patrick and Edward McAndrews, Ballicastle.
Pottery  - Devon DeWinter, Heathfield.
Shipwrights  - Baltazar Giovanni,
Collin McAndrews and Thomas Douglas, Heathfield Port.
Exotic Imports - Ptahneferu J'Atar, Ballicastle; Xandar Douglas, Heathfield Port.
Linen and Lingerie - Marcy McGuire, Heathfield Commons.
Candles and Crystals - Kathleen Cleary, Heathfield Commons.
Private Investigators - Joseph McDonough, Mercy LaCorte, Jacob Anderson, Heathfield Commons.
Tea House - Iwakura Sachiko, Heathfield Commons.
Clothing - Seamstress - Acacia Sterling, Heathfield Commons.
Fortune Teller - Nataliya Andree, Heathfield Commons.
Barrington Hospital - Sadie Badeau, Sara Devonshire, Gates Barrington, Heathfield.
Dockside Tavern - JD Black, Heathfield Port.
Clocks - Aleric and Julia Traugott, Heathfield Commons.
Blacksmith - Brian McAndrews, Heathfield Commons.
Leatherwork and Sheaths - Moncha McAndrews, Heathfield Commons.
Surveyor - Robert Frasier, Ballicastle.
Herbs Shop - Sara Devonshire, Heathfield Commons.
Book Shop - Mariah McCormick, Heathfield Commons.
Orphanage - Henna Barrett Suex, Heathfield.
Archeologist - Kitavari Griffin, Heathfield.
Apothecary - Sinead NiAhearne Frasier, Heathfield.
Raw Ores - Joseph McAndrews, Ballicastle.
Smelter - Eddie McAndrews, Ballicastle.
Barrister-Legal Advisor - Carlotta Basinstoke, Heathfield.

Dear Tae...

 

My question to you is. There are many very eligible bachelors in the lands, men who when gazed upon, make knees weak, heart race, face feel flush, palms sweaty, along with the rest of the body and the very air around me hard to breath. Such a strong effect they have on women. What can we, as women do, to gain the attention and eye of these men?
Desperately Searching.
Dear Desperately Searching,
 My first bit of advice, would be to take a long soothing bath in scented oil. That way if you sweat when near them, you'll offer a pleasant scent, rather than one offensive.  Secondly, be yourself. Don't be pushy, or try to win them over by use of false qualities. Do not shun all around you, when the one of your dreams appears. Many men don't like women who are distant, snobbish, or cold to those who could very well be their friends. Flaunt  your best qualities, and in this, I don't mean your backside or breasts, but your humor, your warmth, and your compassion. Be strong, not a wilting flower, not all men like weak women. And most of all, strike up conversation, intelligently. That, above all else, will capture an eye or two.
Tae.
 ____________________________________________________________
Dear Tae...
I was curious as to if Egyptians are a lot like Scottish Men, in how they wear their kilts?
Curious.
 
Dear Curious,
I wasn't sure of what you were asking at first, so did some asking around. If you mean in the sense of being regimental, then that would apply to all Egyptian's, not just the men. Though we do use a cloth to keep private parts, private.
Tae.
 ____________________________________________________________
Dear Tae...
I'm new to the area, female, and I was wondering if you had any good advice as to how I can make friends amongst the locals?
Friendless
 
Dear Friendless,
That's easily done. You need to interact with all, men and women alike. If you only target a single gender, specifically male, then it's not just a friend you're seeking, and this will be most apparent to all in the lands. In turn, making many wish to shy away from you. It's your responsibility to get out and meet people, not theirs to come to you and lead you around by the hand. Give what you wish to receive. Treat others as you wish to be treated. Respect all, their feelings, their personal space.  That's how you can make friends anywhere.
Tae.

Autumn

Today is the beginning of a new month, and a new season.  The leaves in the Four Kingdoms are beginning to change to brilliant reds, oranges and yellows, with of course, browns mixed in.  Animals that hibernate have been preparing all summer and will soon be nestled in cozy nests, burrows and caves, waiting for that first snow.  All around Ballicastle, the harvest is being completed.  Crops are being stored, dried or sold, canning is being done.  The people seen on a ride through the realm were asked how they relax after a day of harvest, and what they're doing to prepare for winter.

To relax, some people build bonfires, burning the waste from crops, have freshly made cider, and other harder drinks, and dance.  They don't stay up late because most are up at dawn.  Children who help are taken out of school, but keep up their lessons, doing their lessons as soon as the have their evening meal.  The wee ones help by picking up leaves but most end up jumping into the piles rather than cleaning.  It's great fun and even adults should try it!

Most people are doing needed repairs on their homes. Roof repairs seem to be done the most and in some place, neighbors are pitching in to help the elderly and those unable to work because of illness or injury.  On farms, crops are being harvested and winter wheat planted, while some livestock, mostly sheep, goats and cattle are being moved from their summer meadows to the winter ones.  Barns and outbuildings are being shored up in case there's another blizzard like the one several years ago that nearly trapped everyone indoors for days.  People are stocking up on candles, making sure their wells or spring houses are well protected and their supplies enough to last the winter.  A few villages get snowed in regularly, and people there make sure to watch out for one another.  Some have high fences to keep wild animals out and away from their livestock, so those fences must be checked and repaired.  Winter clothing is brought out and checked over.  When the harvest is finished, and the first snow falls, people in the Four Kingdoms know they can relax and enjoy the fruits of their labors.  It's good to know that in each land, those in need can find help and no one needs to go cold or hungry.

Guest Writer - Mary Colleen McAndrews

Next Month for November,  Guest Writer Topic will be on Thanksgiving for those who wish to submit a piece.


Recipes of the Month

FUL MEDAMES

11/2lb dried ful or fava beans
(Can substitute with broad beans if unable to obtain above)

2-4 crushed cloves of garlic

Soak beans for 12 hours, put in pan, cover with fresh water, boil, simmer until tender. (Time depends on dryness of beans) Drain and add crushed garlic. Season and serve hot. Nice served with eggs.

LEAVEN

Taking a small quantity of barley flour mix it with warm water and make a dough shaped into a round mound. Indent in the centre, approximately half the way through, and mark it with a cross using a knife. Place the dough on a plate and fill the dent with water. Leave this in a warm place for a few days to ferment and the dough will split open like a overripe fruit. The dough is then ready to use as yeast to make bread.

TIGER NUT SWEETS

200g of fresh dates are blended with a little water. Then add a little cinnamon and chopped walnuts to taste. Shape into balls, coat in honey, ground almonds and serve.

HUMMUS

225g chickpeas

2 tbs. of wine vinegar

3 cloves of garlic

5 tbs. sesame seed oil

1 tsp. salt

Cook and mash the chickpeas, add lemon juice, chopped garlic and sesame seed oil to make this tasty paste to spread on bread, as popular in Egypt today as it was thousands of years ago.

SEAMAN'S DELIGHT

2 lb full fish fillets (White fish works best) - (This can also be done with pork and chicken)
1 large bowl (Approx 2 quarts) filled with warm water
1/4 cup sea salt
1/4  cup lemon juice
1/4 cup lime juice
1 cup yellow squash
1 cup zucchini
1/2 lb fresh green beans (left whole)
1 large sweet onion sliced into thin wedges
2 Carrots, julienne cut
1 Red pepper, long sliced
1 Yellow pepper, long sliced
1 Cup chicken broth
1/4 cup butter
3 cups fresh sliced mushrooms (2 cups canned)
1 Cup fresh spinach leaves
2 Cups sliced cabbage
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 garlic clove minced
1/2 tsp ginger
6 cups wild rice (can use white)
Add sea salt and lemon juice to bowl of warm water, stirring until salt is completely dissolved. Add meat, let soak for 1/2 hour. (Discard of water after soaking)
 
In a large skillet, add butter, lime juice, salt, pepper, garlic, and ginger. Once butter is melted, place onion, red and yellow pepper, carrots, beans and cabbage into skillet, cooking over a low heat, stirring constantly,  until onions become slightly translucent and the vegetables soft. Add chicken broth, squash, zucchini, mushrooms and spinach leaves, and meat. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, or until meat is completely cooked.
 Fix rice according to the directions.

 

 Serve meat on the side, vegetables to be served on top of rice.
Makes approx 4 servings

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.


***One rumor spread fast down from the mountains of Ballicastle all the way to the port of Heathfield on how one McAndrews prince captured himself a woman and has her stowed away in his mines.

 ***Which McAndrews, or was there two, went about finding hidden petticoats stuffed in a log while the call of the banshee rang out in threats? SIN was there to barter with the she-devil. The devil wasn't paid their due so it is now rumored the banshee continues to haunt the lake looking for her petticoats and seeking revenge.

 ***Have you heard of the notorious, vicious, pirate amongst us? It is still debatable whether they are male or female and go by initials rather than a name. Beware for the one chains men to their bed and threatens to de-man others. Will it be couch or ouch? Take a breath, latest rumor has it, the one is female sporting dual pillows, or maybe they are pillows? and is being whisked off to be married at sea. Will this be the last of the one's ternary or will men still have to cover up their private parts?

 ***The three shipwrights are always a point of interest right here amongst us at the port. The foreigner is still spreading his charms with one oriental stashed away in his apartments while off to marry another in Italy. It has been rumored he has charmed a few outsides the lands. Will they find out about his entourage? Will the women retaliate? He has been dubbed the Sultan for his harem.

 ***Has the McAndrews shipwright cooled his heels or has new ones on them? Not much has been heard on the first quiet lass of high standing in the lands and the sail maker has taken off with a man old enough to be her father. It is said love is not bound by years or even decades. Do they still dream of the man or has a dreamer been weaving those silvery threads? Now a redhead in tow and his ship has come in. Will he sail away leaving broken hearts behind? Or will he too hide one away in his cabin?

 ***The third shipwright was the hardest being more elusive than the other two. The sail maker played a part here in a possible triangle with the prince but that faded away as did the lass. The only oddity is that anyone getting near him have picked up the scent of Italian cooking leaving one to wonder where he spent some of his evenings. At least he smelled good, even edible. Had a few lasses drooling whenever he passed by them.

 ***Of course their hired hand was the one Matty pined after, stalking and watching, waiting for her opportunity to pounce. He was an elusive one but it made her swoon to see how good he was with his hands in doing the rail of the Pirate Lord's ship. A man could be judged by his hands and the way they could be felt on something warmer than wood. Such made even an old croon shiver.

 ***Rumors spread fast on the predictions of one Marquis of Tyremoor. Not the usual so heed was taken on three predicted to succumb to the vows of matrimony within the year. One of those was that very Italian scented shipwright, the brother of the one. He would make one delicious meal for some lucky lass. Was the Marquis playing footsie on the foothills of Barrach? Hopes rose high with the unexpected addition of the Druid Prince himself. Two in particular were watched, would he make an upset in Salaria? Or the one rumored to have been seen with the odd newcomer that walked through fields backwards talking to the air as if others were there to hear him? Was losing a sandal as good as a glass slipper in a Cinderella rendering? Do fairy tales really happen?

 ***Even the Royal Princess of high standing was under scrutiny as two ships passing in the night collided in front of the theater and now a tall, dark, handsome one has been seen around her in escort. Had she conjured up the man from the very shadows that night or has the man spun one on her? Who is this mystery man, referred to as the Shadow?

***Will there be many a suckling mouths to appear nine months from now? If you seen the look in the eyes of all the couples that witnessed the union between the King's Man and Egyptian Priestess, there's a grand possibility of that. Will the Queen be adding a ninth one to her brood?

 ***Has the young McDonough man whisked off one of his employee's to the swimming hole to show her a real stallion? Rumors have it that playing hooky has been given a new meaning. Will he teach her the ropes of bronco riding?

 ***In that very same family daddy's little girl has been seen in passion's thralls with one of the bad boy Romany Gypsies lurking about the lands. Is she spreading her wings? How high will she fly? How far will she go? Has shipping interest dwindled? Will there be a sword point wedding or the daring lad buried deep under? Will his comrade of ilk hear the roar of the Lion? Will the bad boys be turning tail to keep alive? Will there be tears in her eyes when the bad boy leaves town? The Crones want to know!

 ***The forests of Heathfield have always held mysterious happenings and new stirrings give way to one very handsome male that prefers paint over clothing. Women will be flocking to mother nature to get a glimpse of the one now referred to as the Forest King. Nymphs and colorful Gypsies seen around this one in dancing. His talents becoming far reaching as he left one well known mouthy lady dumbfounded and staring like a schoolgirl.

 ***One high esteemed Duke came under scrutiny as he emerged from his hiatus of farming or was he emerging to sow his own seed? An outing in a canoe was watched from the cover of brush by your very own crones. New fishing net used by the young one but the big fish got away in the end and rallied to open an old folks club so that mistakes were not repeated. Matty and Pearl were getting year round passes! They were single and certainly old enough (not admitting being way older). Finally a club suited for them! Huzzah for the handsome Duke!

 ***Speaking of Dukes and the very stiff, stoic one from Falkirk was noted buying enough candles to burn down his manor. Was the man in constant ritual, praying? Such had many wondering until he was caught kissing that very candle maker right in the middle of the street under the deluge of rain. Had his prayers been answered or has he seen a doctor to remove that tack he sat on? Will his wick get lit finally?

 ***The dashing artist with the dark brooding good looks seems to have a following. Of his entire family! They recently took up residence on the Island in a home overlooking the sea. Is there now trouble brewing in Spanish Harlem? Has the Forest King been in the ring as cause or the quiet prince from Salaria sweeping one sister away in the night? Have the hot blooded women gotten out of hand for the brothers? War of the sexes had heated words by the flashy actress only to be roped in? It seems the eldest of the brothers here took matters in hand. Or should that be sisters in hand? "Duenna to them all" being proclaimed being the sentencing.

 ***The rumblings from Salaria even crossed to wash over these lands as hints of incest and private rendezvous spread amongst the royals. Is there love in the wings or just a sour stomach to raise a stench? Will they survive the wagging tongues?

***The spare of Salaria, in the package of heir and a spare, has been missing of late.  Though a familiar looking Princely figure was seen dawn to dusk in the stables of all places!  Could this display of labor be somehow linked to the recent arrival of a certain young French woman?  It matters not any longer, for the Prince has now been seen handling situations once thought beyond his abilities....it seems the youngest of that family is growing up at last.

 ***Projects abound on the Island of Salaria, the Royal Family are putting their hands to the proverbial plow as it were, it seems the Regent's tight fisted means of handling finances has given an economic boon the likes of which has not been seen since the Island was founded!  Time will tell what daring and imaginative endeavors will result from each family member as they try to make their mark on the Island kingdom!

 ***The Island Dream Peddler has dreams of her own, and one is recently come true by none other than the Queen Consort herself.  What could this granted wish be?  Was it fate that the red headed lass answered her own question with blunt honesty.. "What's your dream?"

 ***The youngest Salarian Princess has a ways to go in the ways of diplomacy, though rumor has it she will learn a valuable lesson on an upcoming journey with the Consort and one of the Prince's.  Watching it should be interesting, if only to see what shade of pale the Queen Consort turns next!

***Rumors flood from the underbelly township of Hedgebrier of the Mad Marquis acquiring a new employee.  But, could it be more?  With her escapades into town and a rather disgruntled and dangerous Marquis hot on her tail.  Possessive air about him as well.  Perhaps there is a mixture between business and pleasure?

***After a Devonshires town crier hit the lands,  it has been rumored that their Queen took a packaged deal to marry the five remaining single McAndrews brothers along with two McDonough men and one mysterious writer. A ship style bed is being built by the youngest McAndrews to handle the wedding night rituals.


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.