Empire Today Issue 4

89. Local man in trouble over use of spotlights

Ulod crouched behind the tree, and signaled Raven and Rocknees to move up. They were being paid a considerable amount of money to hunt down the and remove the pixies in the area without injuring them, and by the warrior's count, they had only 4 more to transport. Ulod knew Raven was already preparing the trap, and so signaled Rocknees to get into position, as the dwarf's resistance to magic meant that he would be less likely to end up in an uncontrolled gigglefit as a result of the pixie's spells.

Just then, they were illuminated, all four of them, by a gigantic reflected watch-fire. The pixie fled, Raven dropped the trap, and Rocknees drew his throwing axes. Ulod cast about, looking for the source of the light, and was amazed to see not a summoned creature but an incredibly old man wearing ill fitting, rusted armor. "AH HA! I GOTCHA! I KNEW IT WAS YOU! AUTUMN PEOPLE! FLY MY PRETTIES! FLY!!!!" Ulod sighed. They had gotten too close to Old Man Quigley's house. The ancient fellow was a former adventurer and had turned his home into a fortress. Ulod reached out and put a calming hand on Rocknees' shoulder. "No, my friend. We stick to the contract and inform the watch. They will have a conversation the old codger. Again."

DM Briefing: A retired adventurer has started to sink into senility and has turned his home into an eccentric dungeon, wrapped in tin foil that he believes makes it impossible to be scryed, watch fires on the roof that can be reflected onto the ground via use of mirrors, and a host of cunning, non magical traps meant to disable and entrap while he summons the watch. He is an annoyance to his neighbors, and PCs have been hired to deal with him, either via conversation(if hired by the watch) or in a more permanent fashion(if hired by an angry neighbor who feels he is lowering the value of her property).

Source: http://wkbn.com/2015/09/10/hermitage-man-in-trouble-with-city-over-use-of-s potlights/

90. Fugitive monkey caught

"And...NOW!" Amelia shouted the spell and the monkey, unaware of her presence, could not make its escape in time. Held rigid by the magic, he fell from the tree. Amelia was already in position, however, and she caught the monkey before it could be injured in a near-fatal fall.

"I can't let you do that." The watchwoman nodded towards the satchel on the ground. "You've been paid for your time. Leave the monkey and go." She quietly began to reach for her dagger, knowing that the druid's magics would not work on metal...

DM Briefing: A pet monkey that escaped from a well to do household and has caused havoc for the neighborhood has recently been caught by a druid hired for the task. However, the druid does not want to return the monkey to careless handlers. PCs have been hired by the local guard to subdue the druid and return the monkey to its owners, by the monkey's owners to kill the druid and return the monkey, or are party members with the druid and seek to assist their friend in returning the monkey to the wild.

Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/fugitive-monkey-caught-order-restored-t o-kentucky-town_us_55f18930e4b002d5c0783dfa?utm_hp_ref=weird-news

91. Incredibly fast tortoise becomes figure of note

"I can't believe it. It has to be some kind of trick." Percy had never seen a tortoise move that fast before.

"Fine. Fine. I'll write the head office." Percy threw his hands up in mock exasperation. The little fellow had just made his way into the book of records by less than two seconds, and would need to be escorted to the city for the ceremony...

DM Briefing: A tortoise has just barely beaten the land speed record for creatures of his type, and now must be escorted to a famous city in the campaign setting to receive accolades. PCs are hired to escort the creature, or perhaps kill it, if they are hired by the family that owns the current record holder.

Source: http://news.sky.com/story/1549591/hand-of-dog-pooch-heads-into-record-book

92. Pair of young boys escape kindergarten and walk great distance to buy a "real" cart.

Norris could hardly keep the smirk off his face. The halflings had been wandering about the field for at least ten minutes, unable to agree on a horse, much less a cart. He let their anger stew a bit, and then walked over to introduce himself.

"Uh...sirs? Why don't we talk in my office. There are, ah, more models there..."

DM Briefing: A pair of very young boys have escaped their kindergarden and walked a great distance in search of a "real" cart. Their plan is the result of months of planning coupled with ingenious execution. The PCs could be hired by the kindergarten to find these children and return them with great discretion, by the store owner to find their parents, or simply be passers by who notice a pair of human children attempting to pass themselves off as halflings walking down the street.

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3226708/The-Great-Nursery-Escape-Tw o-boys-use-toy-spades-tunnel-Russian-kindergarten-playground-walk-Jaguar-sh owroom-buy-grown-car.html#reader-comments

93. Two headed albino snake purchased for freakshow

"5000 going once? Twice? SOLD!" The auctioneer slammed his hammer upon the gavel. The stage hands pushed the expensive glass case off stage and into the waiting arms of the freakshow owner's staff. The owner himself cooed over the two-headed, albino snake, which seemed unimpressed by the attention.

"We will see about that..." she said as she began another spell to inform her compatriots of the rare snake's location...

DM Briefing: A local freakshow owner has spent 5000 gold on a new attraction; a two headed albino snake. The creature is quite beautiful and has already increased his ticket sales considerably. PCs can be security for Medusa, as the snake has been named, part of the druid circle that wishes to see the rare creature freed, or simple gawkers enjoying the show as a two headed snake eats creatures that have been cut in half for it.

Source: http://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2015/09/05/Two-headed-albino-snake-bought-by-Ve nice-Beach-Freakshow-owner/5851441454201/?spt=sec&or=on

94. Crossbows designed to strike nonbelievers dead if they attempt to make use of it

"I don't get it. It looks normal to me." Mudeater looked down the sight of the brand new crossbow's stock, and while nice it seemed completely mundane.

Mudeater was less sure. People were supposed to come to Wada on their own, not by force or treachery. While much of the kingdom was Wadisian, few were as zealous as Benny was. Clearly, it was time to have words with the requisition officer...

DM Briefing: A new series of heavy crossbows is being produced with a trap set upon them that will target the handler with a holy smite if they are not of the faith that aligns with the symbol emblazoned upon it. PCs are hired to determine if this is simply a weapons manufacturer attempting to make money off of religious intolerance or if this is a truly dangerous and effective way to keep weapons out of the hands of unbelievers or heretics.

Source: http://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2015/09/03/Florida-gun-shops-rifle-designed-to- repel-Muslim-terrorists/3181441309655/?spt=sec&or=on

95. Expert shearers called in to shear overgrown sheep

Ionis packed the last of the tools of his trade in his sachel and tossed the package over his shoulder. He rotated his neck and was rewarded with a soft popping sound. He headed for the door, but was intercepted by his wife, who proffered him a small box, filled with cheese, bread, nuts and fruit for his journey. "Are you sure you have to go?" She asked. Her voice was quite tremulous.
"They have asked for the best. That's me." He took the box and kissed his wife.
"Be careful," she whispered. "I have heard it's...big. Maybe dangerous."
"Hush now. It's under control. I will be travelling under escort."
He kissed her again and opened his front door. The two adventurers flanked him as he made his way to the carriage. "Let's go." he grunted. It was never good to keep a lady waiting, especially one as hot and bothered as the one he was heading to see.

DM Briefing: A sheep that has been lost for over a season has recently been found, with wool that has been badly overgrown to the point it barely looks like a sheep at all. Expert sheep shearers have been called in to trim the poor sheep, and there is a fear that the creature may not survive the process. PCs can be hired to escort the sheep shearer, to tend to the animal in need of care, or to escort the record amount of wool to the city to be sold, as there are numerous people there who want to buy the wool of this now-famous sheep.

Source: http://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2015/09/02/Animal-rescuers-call-shearing-champ- to-tackle-sheeps-overgrown-fleece/6331441217929/?spt=sec&or=on

96. Pregnant woman to use dolphin as midwife

Amelia cooed the pregnant woman, who was breathing underwater only through use of her magic. At least she was remaining calm. "Breathe as I have taught you. There you go." The woman's grip is considerably strong as the child began to crown.
Amelia reached out with her magic to bring in Ankle-biter. The dolphin made its way over to the birthing area without complaint, although it seemed disturbed by the blood that was fouling the area.
:It is coming out. What do I do? It looks...wrinkly and gross!: Ankle-biter had never seen a human give birth before.
:Truth be told, I don't know. Swim around. Make clicks. Look impressed. SOMEthing.: Amelia was being paid more money than she had ever seen in her life to make the dolphin act as a midwife.
Anklebiter did as he was bid. Soon the infant was pushed out in an explosion of blood and viscera and was wading through the shallow water in search of its first breath. Amelia left the mother behind and made for the child, whose mucus plug would only keep it safe for so long.
"No!" croaked the mother. "Let the midwife do it."
Panicking mentally but soothing the mother verbally, she sent a series of images to her animal companion, who scooped up the infant on his back and broke the surface of the water...

DM Briefing: A woman with perhaps more money than sense has paid a great deal of coin to a local druid to help her give birth to a child with a dolphin acting as a midwife. PCs are hired by either the druid or the mother to provide extra security and ensure nothing goes wrong.

Source: http://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2015/09/02/Hawaii-woman-announces-plan-to-use-d olphin-as-a-midwife/6171441208268/?spt=sec&or=on

97. "Homeless" man kidnapped by confused samaritan

Marolis was not sure which hurt more- his head or his leg. But he dare not move, dare not complain. The crazy woman's guard dog had already savaged one leg, he did not want to know what else it could do.

The dog growled again, and he recoiled in horror. "That's right, Pope, an alley to have to yourself is NOT a home. Please, eat up. We'll find suitable accommodations for you in the morning, but tonight you are my guest." Marolis sighed and bit into the rare lamb. Maybe if he got sick, he could use that as an excuse to summon help...

DM Briefing: A minor noblewoman has been taking in homeless people for years, giving them a night of fine dining and then finding places for them to live. However, she has grown confused of late and has been taking in any rough-looking individual with the help of her very large dog(treat as dire wolf), and holding them hostage until they play along with her madness. PCs are hired to find a missing party, to heal this woman's mind(perhaps pretending to be homeless in order to get past her defenses), or have been kidnapped by this woman herself and have no wish to hurt her, only to leave.

Source: http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/Man-Kidnaps-Man-He-Thought-Was-Hom eless-Cops-323123001.html

98. Man chronicles removal of bees from home

"Day 31. The fellows from the apiary arrived earlier than they did yesterday, equipped with smokers to disturb the bees. They have several jars to take any honey and comb they find back to distributors." The weird little man was speaking aloud as he wrote into his journal. It was none of Marco's business, he knew, but it was funny nonetheless. It had been a long road to this part, breaking open the walls of the bee-infested home to remove the pests and harvest the honey. Maybe he is in the right to commit it to paper, he thought as he secured the thick gloves onto his hands and picked up the smoker...

DM Briefing: A somewhat eccentric well-to-do man's home has been infested with bees. Honey is leaking down the walls and the bees are quite aggressively defending their new hive. PCs are called in to perhaps magically protect the beekeepers as they remove the bees, or more likely to guard the surprising amount of honey that has been harvested from the walls of the home.

Source: http://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2015/08/28/Los-Angeles-man-chronicles-removal-o f-50000-bees/4121440790160/?spt=sec&or=on

99. Tourists in national park pester rangers due to lack of bears

Ranger Won sighed as he looked over the notes his underrangers left on his desk. There were never many, but the requests from tourists were usually outlandish. He crumpled up another request from horny teenagers to have more dryads and tossed it in the trash.
Just then he uncrumpled it. This was far better handwriting than he had seen in some time. Did that say "dryads" or...No. It was a request for BEARS!

Ranger Won could hardly believe what he was seeing. There were no bears for miles around, the park was in too sparse an area with respect to the type of food bears ate. Still, perhaps something could be done...

DM Briefing: A ranger at a national park has been informed that his park lacks bears for tourists to see. He reaches out to the PCs to determine whether or not bears might be feasible for the park as an attraction.

Source: http://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2015/08/27/Yellowstone-visitor-asks-for-bears-t o-be-trained-for-tourists/3951440686664/?spt=sec&or=on

100. Spring-fall relationship enters public eye

The old fellow was nervous, seemingly without reason. Sensing trouble, Kitt nodded to Therusk. The muscular half orc subtly made his way over to the opposing display.

Just then, there was a commotion down the street. A crowd was forming, and cheers were going up alongside not a few gasps and mutters. Making sure it wasn't a distraction, Kitt leaned over the coin box to peer down the way. The old fellow was swinging a half-elven girl in his arms, who was weeping with joy at her new ring and the marriage proposal that came along with it.

DM Briefing- A considerably older human has made public plans to wed a half elf girl many years his junior- young enough to be his granddaughter, actually. There is a small amount of public outcry, but many are happy for the couple. PCS could be private investigators hired by the beau's family to seek out information on the love of his life, by a local rag publication eager for a juicy story, or by the future husband to provide security for the wedding, as he was a figure of note in his youth and is quite wealthy.

Source- http://www.msn.com/en-us/tv/celebrity/david-hasselhoff-engaged-to-girlfrien d-hayley-roberts/ar-BBsAA4e?li=BBnb2gh

101.Town Shuts Down Illegal Prison

Ceska groaned as the shaft of sunlight fell across her sleeping form. Never before had something so welcome felt so intrusive. "Get up." She recognized the voice as one of the less-abusive guards.

"MOVE!" A guard barked at her, jerking his head in the direction of the exit, where she noted a bookish-looking fellow doling out full coinpurses as they left...

DM Briefing: A debtor's prison in a moderately-sized city has been found to be illegal by a high court of the kingdom. The prisoners are being released and being given back pay for the time they have spent in prison- plus interest. PCs could be former prisoners looking to start over with 2d6 x 100 silver, former guards looking to rob or otherwise accost the newly wealthy former prisoners, or working for kingdom higher ups who are overseeing the dismantling of a disgusting institution.

Source- http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2016/05/06/3776098/debtors-prison-repeal-c olorado/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=tptop3 &utm_term=5&utm_content=43&elqTrackId=8e224a4adf764034b5862795c b7a5c0a&elq=53ea27da2aa946228b537f8d03fa0932&elqaid=30039&elqat =1&elqCampaignId=5570

102. Suspected Anarchist Revealed To Be Professor

The halfling flagged Dubro down a third time. He restrained a sigh as he put on a professional air and started to ask her what it was this time. But this time she did not let him finish and instead pressed a piece of parchment into his hand with great force, her eyes pleading for him to read it away from here. His brow furrowed and he looked over the Halfling and the swarthy human sitting next to her, who seemed to be absorbed in whatever he was writing. He cleared his throat and walked away from them to read the note. "Anarchist next to me. Alchemist symbols. Please help." Dubro glanced over in their direction and frowned. Alchemy wasn't illegal, nor was being an anarchist per se, but everyone was on their guard after the Alchemy Wars saw thousands dead in their non magical explosions. He had no choice but to follow regulations and inform the ship's captain of the note. Within moments, the ship had turned around and started to head back to port, to the dismayed groans and angry mutters of all. A pair of plain dressed Seaguards were waiting for the ship as it weighed anchor, and escorted the man off the ship. The Halfling woman smiled even as a pair of mundane guards came to escort her off as well. She clearly thought herself a hero due a reward. Dubro thought her a simpleton looking for a moment of fame, but kept his mouth shut as another ship took their place and departed the harbor...

DM Briefing: In a land wracked with concern over alchemic anarchist bombings, a woman on a ship that would make a tempting target suspects a fellow passenger's writings are associated with the movement, as they are in a language she cannot understand and the man's taciturn demeanor and even vague physical description fits the stereotypical profile of the average alchemic anarchist. However, she is quite wrong -the man is a professor of esoteric

Source- http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2016/05/08/3776376/math-professor-terroris m/

103. Man Attempts To Steal Home

Vera squealed with delight as she toured the empty residence. The home was perfect and Snead even moreso.

It is not a lie, he told himself. It is quite true. He collected the signs and thought about his bills. He would have enough to make a silent payment before long, he was sure...

DM Briefing: A man of unsavory character is attempting to buy a home without actually purchasing it, instead removing the 'for sale' signs and contacting the seller directly in what could be a long con. PCs are either selling the house, have bought it legally, or notice their neighbor, a polite and cheerful woman, is being evicted suddenly.

Source- http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/man-charged-with-theft-after-moving-int o-indiana-home-he-didn’t-actually-buy/ar-BBsKggw?li=BBnbcA

104. Ghost Ship Washes Ashore

The only sounds were that of the waves and the gulls. The ship, eerie for it's imposing size and complete silence, made its way to port. The anchor dropped into the water as if everything was normal. Only it was painfully obvious that it was empty. No movement on deck, no one in the crow's nest. The planks, thankfully, did not float up as if carried by invisible hands and place themselves for the non-existent crew to disembark.

The Viva was 3 days later than expected. "Better late than never," Dockmaster Marin muttered...

DM Briefing: A ship devoid of crew arrives in port as if it were fully crewed. It is unknown whether or not the cargo on the ship is safe as superstitious sailors refuse to go anywhere hear the ship. PCs are called in to investigate.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/ghost-ship-panama-tanker-goes-off-grid- washes-up-with-no-crew/ar-BBsVkJn?li=BBnb7Kz

I take it it bumped into the dock releasing the anchor.

It could be crewed by Deep ones or former slaves who do not know how to steer a ship. In any case they will be waiting for nightfall to sneak ashore. :)

105-Bees Attack Town

"My eye. MY EYE!" Mikal clapped a hand over the wounded orb and reeled, viewing the world through a squint on his left hand side. The damnable bees were EVERYWHERE, and attacking anyone who crossed their path. He ran as best as he could, fear lending him dexterity as he recovered after tripping over an unmoving dog in the street that looked like it had been stung hundreds of times. Poor thing, he thought. He knew the tricks to avoiding bees in general, but could see no hive- where were they COMING from?

DM Briefing: A swarm of "killer" bees is attacking a rather quiet town. It is rumored that they came from an amateur beekeeper's discarded hive somewhere in town, but they have no interest in returning there, instead viewing the entire settlement as their territory. PCs are called in to combat the menace.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/swarm-of-aggressive-bees-attack-california -town/ar-BBt5rrP?form=PRHPTP&li=BBnbfcL

106- Ancient Coins Found At Bottom Of The Sea

Vera felt a tickle in her lungs as the spell took hold, and then nodded to her compatriots. She slipped under the water, leaving only the subtlest of ripples in her wake. She reached the undersea wreck in moments, and made her way through the debris that Ulod described to her only moments before. There it was, covered in centuries of calcium buildup. Enough ancient coin to fund an expedition for a ship this size, waiting for the taking. She examined one of the coins and saw a relief of a man who had to be old King Viper. She flipped it over and found the relief of a man she did not recognize, but could be none other than his rival, Lord Vermillion. She couldn't help but smile- this coin was a so-called "grudge gold", so named for the hatred the two bore for each other- this coin alone was worth a considerable amount of everyday gold to the right buyer. She sent a magical flare up to the surface to indicate that the party had hit the motherlode...

DM Briefing: A cask of ancient coins and to-be-recycled bronze statues is found in an ancient undersea wreck. The treasure trove is worth thousands of gold pieces. PCs can be the lucky folk who find such a haul, or perhaps called in to act as security for those who do, or may be part of an ancient organization who seeks to reclaim their lost heritage.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/israel-divers-find-ancient-marine-cargo -in-mediterranean/ar-BBt6sDq?li=BBnbfcL

107- Ancient Shipwreck Claims Unusual Amount Of Lives

Vera began her ascent, eager to discuss the logistics of moving so much coin. Just then, the world flashed red, yellow and green in sequence, and her head filled with the sound of a thousand noontime tower bells. Something was wrong. Her [i]alarm had been tripped.

She spun around in a full circle, alert for danger. She felt more than heard the mast crack, and the water displacement as it succumbed to a lazy gravity pushed her into an alcove. She let out a shriek as the oversized tendrils of the hidden giant jellyfish caressed her skin. Her left arm hung limp and useless. She snarled a spell that she worked with her only functional hand, and a flame seared the creature out of existence. A cloud of debris went up as the mast fell into the sea floor and sent sand everywhere. She tried to ascend again but cracked her head on some unseen part of the shipwreck. Her eyes filled with blood and sand both. This place was a deathtrap...[/i]

DM Briefing- An unusually dangerous shipwreck in a remote area is gaining a reputation for the amount of lives it has claimed. PCs are called in to fully explore the wreckage and see if there is anything there worth salvaging other than the bodies(and treasure) of those who came before.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/the-mysterious-shipwreck-that-swallows-dee p-sea-divers-who-try-to-find-it/ar-BBteXlt?li=BBnbcA1

108. Figure of Note Down To His Last 400 Gold

Rusk couldn't believe it. Right there in the pawn shop was the human he had been called to keep an eye upon not a tenday ago! He was dressed differently, perhaps to evade recognition, but Rusk never forgot a breeder's face. "I'll take it," the human sighed. His vision was not the best, but he did indeed note that was a sizeable sachel he was pulling back, and the flap was hastily pulled down to hide the unmistakable gleam of gold. Looked to be three or four trade bars in there. It was truly none of his business, so Rusk kept to himself when the man walked down the street in his direction. He was clinging to the sachel as if his life depended on it. Perhaps that half-elf bint had indeed fleeced him as Kitt implied...

DM Briefing- An older, formerly famous fellow is down to his last 400 gold or so, as he cannot afford alimony payments to his ex wife despite a recent marriage to a much younger woman. Public tongues are wagging about this burgeoning scandal, with some feeling that his ex wife is destroying him, and others feeling he is living beyond his means. PCs can be hired by either the gentleman or his wife to either diminish debts or acquire the last of his funds respectively, or are simply gossips themselves, relishing in or complaining of this man's reversal of fortune.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/tv/celebrity/david-hasselhoff-is-broke-claims-he-o nly-has-dollar4000-in-cash/ar-BBthtU0?li=BBnb7Kz&ocid=iehp

109. New Mayor Declares War On Crime

The little man's rotund belly was at odds with the bulging muscles in his forearms. He looked like he could crack a skull with a good squeeze, and the popping sounds the nuts made as he shelled them only lent an intimidating aire to his words. "One hundred gold per head. Fifty if they are only wounded."
Mario the scribe felt his jaw drop. "Are you serious?"
"Deadly so," the new mayor grunted as he ate. "We cannot be soft on crime."
"But these men have not even had trials. How can we know they are guilty? And what of vigilantes? Do you want to encourage such folk?" Mario could not repress a shudder.
The mayor was unmoved. "I will not stand in the way of those who want to see justice done. If criminals don't want to be killed, they should not commit crimes."
Mario quietly wrote everything down, but could not keep the concern out of his face. This was a setting for mob justice...

DM Briefing: A new mayor in a rather corrupt, if not lawless town, has put a bounty of 100 gold on the severed heads of criminals and 50 gold for criminals turned in alive, but wounded. There is a concern that this will result in vigilantism, if not outright mob rule, but the mayor seems not to care. PCs could be part of the town watch, vigilantes looking to make money while dispensing justice, part of a blood- and cointhirsty mob, or part of a thieves guild that is trying to decide what to do about this new, seemingly mad mayor.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/after-duterte-philippine-mayor-offers-b ounties-to-kill-criminals/ar-BBtgvNB?li=BBnb4R7&ocid=iehp

110. Escaped Inmate Returns to Prison To Try To Free Others
"Oof!" Afoan landed with a minimum of sound but at expense to her lungs as her knees caught the fall. That was easier on the way out than on the way in. Of course, she had walked with a considerable load of supplies this time. She crouched with the too-heavy bag as the light from the watchfire illuminated the area just a few strides away. The guards seemed agitated, but their attention was focused inward, not outwards- a criminal had just escaped from the prison a few hours ago, after all. A dangerous woman, by all accounts, wanted for killing dozens, including one of the gaolers watching over her, whose neck she snapped with her bare hands...

Foolishness. She edged her way around the watchfire and counted the 31 paces to the prison wall. She took out the crowbar and traced the outline of the large masonry brick she knew to be weak and gave it several heavy taps. It made noise, she knew, but there was nothing for it- besides, she knew they were looking for someone breaking out, not breaking in. Eventually it gave, and Afoan had her way in. There were enough daggers, clubs and other simple weapons in her satchel to arm her friends. Soon, the prison would be theirs...

DM Briefing: A recently-escaped inmate has made their way back to the prison they were held at to free other prisoners, who may or may not be kept there unjustly. They have a considerable amount of contraband, and a plan to seize the prison from the inside out. PCs are either on the side of the prisoners or the prison.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/offbeat/cops-escaped-inmate-returns-tries-to- free-others/ar-BBtt2Hu?li=BBnba9O&ocid=iehp

111. Pictures of Cats Forbidden By Cleric
Grezden tossed another painting, a heavy wood-framed piece, onto the bier. He paused to wipe a rivulet of sweat from his brow. Creating a pile like this was grueling work. But he didn't dare slow down, not with Brother Vinzen watching directly over him. Eventually the job was finished, and Grezden dared to take a long pull from the waterskin at his waist. "It is time," the cleric intoned, and Grezden took a reflexive leap back as the spell was cast. A gout of flame, proof of Novis' anger, came down from the heaven's and immolated the latest pile of offensive images. Paintings of people with cats grew twisted by heat before they were consumed by the flames....

DM Briefing- A cleric of a rather stern interpretation of an already stern religion has decreed that pictures of people with cats are to be destroyed as they encourage idolatry. Fanatics are taking to the street and gathering piles of paintings of people with cats to destroy or burn, and this is slowly creating mobs of religious rioters. PCs could be rioters themselves, lovers of animals who are concerned that the next step will be to kill cats, protecting a particularly famous piece of art(or cat), or simple onlookers.

Source- http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/saudi-cleric-posing-for-photos-with-cat s-is-forbidden/ar-BBtt9Kg?form=PRHPTP&li=BBnbL

112. Single Lightning Bolt Kills 21 Cows

BOOM! The peal of thunder was so loud it rattled the windows and caused Unarria's headache to end instantly as her sinuses popped. A thin tinkle of rain is all that fell after the unnecessarily loud preamble, and while she was sure it was loud enough to startle the cows, it wasn't enough to impede her as she made her way to the herd to usher them indoors. She grumbled as she pulled on her galoshes and headed in the direction of the grazing cattle. The flash of lightning that filled her vision when she was but a few feet away from the herd blinded her for more than an instant. She could only hear a slow, deliberate THUD as a kaliedoscope of colors filled her vision instead of the grey sky, mottled cows and green fields. Eventually her vision cleared and she pushed herself to her feet, still grumbling.

But she was the only thing that stood. Before her lay twenty one head of cattle, unmoving on the grass. An anguished cry erupted from her lips as she pushed upon a head here, a flank there, but there was nothing that could be done. They were all dead, from a single bolt of lightning. BOOM! came another peal of thunder on the heels of the strike. It sounded suspicously as if it were masking laughter...

DM Briefing: A single lightning bolt has slain twenty one cows in a rural area. The farmer is a figure of note and is quite anguished over the loss, willing to submit themselves to magical interrogation to prove they are not lying. This is a significant loss of cattle, and there are many who feel that this was the work of a non-divine party, such as a wizard or
sorcerer. PCs are called in to question the farmer and determine the truth.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/a-single-lightning-bolt-killed-21-cows- in-south-dakota/ar-BBtH109?li=BBnbcA1

113. Woman Discovers Dead Body In Storage Box She Bought for 3 Silver

"You got a deal!" Enez couldn't believe it. The storage box was a true wonder- made entirely out of metal and with a "cantrip" on it to keep everything inside ice cold. All for three silver from her neighbor. She gave the woman 2 silver and a dozen copper and started to drag the box to her cart where her sons were waiting.
"And please, don't forget..." her neighbor started nervously.
"I know," Enez repeated, "I won't open it for a tenday. The memory box inside is for the schoolchildren." It supposedly held 'artifacts' from just before Enez had been born - and she didn't think herself that old.
Enez' neighbor watched the woman's sons struggle to move the heavy box onto the cart and waved when they began to make their way down the road. She let go of the breath she didn't realize she was holding. She was free now, but she had to flee in order to make sure she would stay that way. They wouldn't understand what they found inside. They just wouldn't...

DM Briefing - A woman who purchased a magical storage chest with a freezing cantrip on it opens it after the requisite time had ended to discover a dissected corpse within. She was told a school would be coming by to pick up the memory box that was within, but this was a ruse meant to keep the trusting woman from opening it while the murderer made their escape. PCs could be called in to investigate, search for the murderer, have purchased the chest themselves, or know the deceased.

Source: http://m.stltoday.com/news/national/north-carolina-woman-buys-freezer-at-ne ighbor-s-yard-sale/article_1be8c2e8-7a70-5c37-a000-c7ae686a3f2a.html

114. Candles of Truth Used To Enforce Unpopular Law

Kallen expertly kept the smirk off his face as the guardsmen began to search the cart. He was quite confident that they would not find the contraband- they hadn't on his past 3 runs through the city. "Well, Mister Voden, it seems that everything is in order. You are free to go." Kallen smiled quietly and began to turn to the reins of his horses. Mark off another one...
"One moment." The sergeant in charge of the patrol came up to Kallen just then, a strange candle held lit in a meaty fist. Kallen was instantly suspicious. It would be noon before long, there was no need for a lit candle on a well travelled road under open sky. "You aren't carrying any..contraband, are you?" The sergeant's smile was far warmer than it needed to be.
"Yes." Kallen was surprised to hear the voice was his own. "In a strongbox underneath the fourth barrel from the front."
The sergeant's smile became more genuine. "Thank you, Mister...Oh, who am I kidding, Voden isn't your real name, is it?"
"No." Kallen could not seem to control his lips. "It is Kallen."
"Contraband carries a heavy fine. Do you have the coin to pay?"
"Yes." Kallen wanted to grind his teeth but couldn't. "There is a coinpurse underneath my seat on the wagon."
The other guards helped themselves to his coin even as they removed the contraband. "We will hold this as evidence against you in court. Where are you staying?"
Kallen couldn't help but tell him everything about his plans in town. Another guard wrote it all down.
"Thank you, Mr. Kallen, you have been very helpful." The sergeant blew out the candle and only then could Kallen sputter and curse angrily. What did these bastards DO?

DM Briefing: Common guards in a town of moderate size have started making use of candles of truth in order to get criminals to testify against themselves. This allows them to use an unpopular law to take their coin and possessions as evidence against them to be used in court. People are starting to complain that the guards are using this as way to enrich themselves, not enforce the law. PCs could be guards making use of this equipment and law for reasons good or ill, criminals who have found themselves in a bind as someone has unwillingly given their location and activities up to the law, in charge of creating these candles of truth, or simple passersby.

Source: http://www.news9.com/story/32168555/ohp-uses-new-device-to-seize-money-used -during-the-commission-of-a-crime

115. Alligator Found With Human Corpse In Its Mouth

Captain Vera had been listening to reports for hours. The lieutenant, a weedy little man whose voice was easy to ignore, gave Iota Squad's report in a dull monotone.
"...and Steadys Rynnia and Quead's bodies were found in the mouths of a pair of dire alligators just inside Sector P. That's everything, Captain."
"Thank you, Lieutenant, that will be all." The Lieutenant saluted, turned a perfect about face and began to make his leave.
Just then the words of the last report hit her. "Wait, what was that about Sector P?"
The Lieutenant turned about face again and saluted, parade perfect once again. "Steadys Rynnia and Quead's bodies were found in the mouths of a pair of dire alligators just inside Sector P." Once again, he was monotone.
Captain Vera was incredulous at his calm. "Lieutenant, we have a PAIR of MAN EATING GATORS in that sector! Why didn't you think to..underscore that? I don't know, say it EARLIER in the report maybe?" She realized she was shouting, but the Lieutenant was nonplussed in turn.
"I did mention it. Several reports ago. I only mentioned it again because you didn't seem overly concerned."
Vera's head spun. Her career was on the line due to this man's bland nature. "Get outside help on this, immediately, but quietly. I want those man-eaters dealt with in 48 hours."

DM Briefing: A pair of man-eating alligators have been found in the swamp of a lightly populated area. PCs are called in to deal with the creatures one way or another.

Source: http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article82321442.html

116. People Live Happily With Dire Tigers

Sten checked his weapons for a third time. The crossbow was more than ready to go, and the quarrels were dripping with venom. The rest of his party looked at him and nodded. This was going to be easy. They didn't need to kill the livestock, just poison them. Then the villagers would HAVE to move, and the empire would be able to take the land without violence, in agreement with the ancient treaty. The raiders moved as a unit, wading through the high grass, wearing the colors of a rival tribe and imitating their war-cry fairly well. One of his men was off. Probably Rao. He looked in the direction of the rookie, but saw nothing. Maybe he had made the sound when he tripped? But just then Venn fell. And Sabine. They were the ones under attack, not the villagers, who seemed to have ignored the charging entirely. Sten realized he was alone. And something big was moving through the grass at him. The last thing he saw was the dire tiger's mouth opening in a snarl as it pounced on him- then white.
Some time later, a farmer walked his cow past the violent scene. He nodded quietly to himself and began digging holes to house the latest fertilizer, pausing only to swat the cow on the flanks so it would walk home exactly the way it came, the better to avoid the protectors of the village. The dire tigers had lived alongside his people since the time of his grandfather's grandfather, and today was an excellent example of why his people had not moved on to the city.

DM Briefing- A comparatively primitive people have lived in the same area for centuries, with Dire Tigers acting as protectors of the village. Through this unlikely alliance, these people have withstood the test of time, raiders, and even an invading army. Despite the increase of hunters of said Dire Tigers in the area, who take their beautiful pelts and sturdy claws and teeth for trade, the numbers of these creatures is increasing. PCs could be hunters seeking out these creatures, druids and rangers attempting to determine if these creatures are intelligent as they seem, or villagers themselves with one of these animals as a companion to explore the world beyond.

Source: http://www.bbc.com/earth/story/20160607-there-are-people-in-india-happily-l iving-with-wild-tigers

117. White Black Bear Cub Baffles Sages

Amelia raised a clenched fist so that the party would come to a halt. She pointed to her eyes with two fingers and held up three fingers on her other hand, indicating she saw three creatures of interest.

The old man grumbled quietly as his bones creaked, but he got into down on one knee almost as fast as the remainder of the group, all young enough to be his children- or grandchildren, in the case of the boy archer. A spyglass appeared out of nowhere as the elderly fellow gazed upon the scene they had been searching for for days. Right there in the next hollow was a mated pair of black bears leading a creamy white bear cub on a search for berries. The party was in luck for a few were found, and so the bears taught their child how to forage properly. Soon, they were all munching quietly, oblivious to the fact they were being watched- or more likely, just ignoring the gawkers.
"So, what now?" The youth with the bow had strung his weapon, although he had not placed an arrow upon it yet. The druid gave him a look that promised a painful end, but the boy was too full of youthful bravado to give it any heed. She gritted her teeth instead.
"We watch. And wait. There is probably a cave or home these creatures have of some sort. There has to be more of them somewhere."
The old man perked up. "Yes! There have to be more! I'll double your fee if you can find more!"

DM Briefing: A white black bear cub has been discovered alongside his mundane mother and father. The bears seem oblivious to his coloring, which has fascinated sages and rangers alike. PCs are called in to search out the home of this rare animal, and are promised a considerable payday if more white black bear cubs are found.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/video/animals/black-bear-cub-with-creamy-white-coa t-baffles-scientists/vi-AAh3U2W?ocid=iehp

118. Drunk Guide Leaves Hikers Stranded Atop Mountain

"O-kay. My turn, I guess." The sizable crowd wore wan, but genuine smiles as the next well-dressed man stepped forward. "How many halflings does it take to light a torch?" Groans came up from the crowd, but a few encouraged him to finish to tasteless joke. "Twelve- one to snatch a twig from the fire, five to set up the ladder, and six to climb and light the torch!"
Wheezing laughter went through the crowd along with a few boos. The well-dressed man made a theatrical bow and returned to the circle. The next fellow in line took his turn telling a joke in the center, but did not hide his concern with how low the sun was getting on the horizon. Some dozen of the stranded hikers had gone out from the group to look for kindling, but they had returned in ones and twos, mostly empty handed. There wasn't enough for even a small-sized fire, forget a fire large enough to keep 60 people warm. The guide had been gone for over 3 hours, gin blossoms florid in his cheeks. He did not dare give voice to the idea they were stranded, lest people begin to turn on each other. His joke was no better than his predecessor's, but people laughed anyway. Someone in the group got the abysmally tiny fire going and a cheer went up. It didn't give out much heat but it did offer light. Maybe someone would see it and send help...

DM Briefing: A large group of about 60 well to do folk have gone hiking on a small sized mountain, paying handsomely for the right to do so. A guide that has become quite wealthy after guiding the bourgeoisie up the steep hill has become drunk on the job and wandered off, leaving these folk stranded. They have enough provisions to survive comfortably for a few hours, but not overnight. PCs are called in to find the city slickers and return them to more predictable adventures.

119. Extreme Heat Ruins Road, Causes Carts To Go Airborne

"UNGH!" Herald landed with a thud in the grass to the side of the road. Whatever had happened, he had been blown clear. The crash as his cart landed not far from him was deafening, and his wares were scattered all over. His shoulder was out of joint, he knew, but aside from that, nothing seemed to be broken. The road was straight and placid a moment ago, but now it looked like some great impact from underneath his feet had caused it to erupt. "Damn dwarves," he muttered. Everyone knew they worked metal underground. This had to be their fault...

DM Briefing- Extreme summer heat in an area that uses asphalt has caused roads to crack and even erupt as pressure builds underground and seeks release. One such eruption has resulted in astonishing damage to carts making their way down the road, sending one airborne and injuring the drover. PCs can be called in to investigate, or may have fallen victim to such an eruption.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/extreme-heat-buckles-highways-s ends-vehicles-flying/ar-AAgYYXW?li=BBnba9J

121. Ranger Has Truly Awful Day

The wolf was relentless. In another time and place, Barnaby would be able to appreciate it. But not when it was on her heels, chasing her through the woods.
It was supposed to be an easy day. Just her and her animal companion Joey(whose own growls, snaps and snarls were keeping his slavering canid cousin at bay) and a satchel full of morel mushrooms. The things were 5 silver a pound, and she could pluck two dozen pounds on a good day. Then the wolf found them. It kept its distance at first, a skinny thing, doubtless an exile from one of the local packs, and desperate enough for long pork. Like a tenderfoot, she had left her bow at home, not thinking she would be hunted like this.
Then, she heard a shuffling, whuffing sound. Not a dog, it was far too loud. No, it could only be a bear, and she saw a large shadow up ahead, making more of those noses. She had unintentionally stayed downwind of the beast and so the bear's delicate nose hadn't detected her- yet. She looked at Joey, who gave her a inquisitive quirk of his head. The bear had to be searching for a lost cub- it was far too talkative to be hungry. The wolf was just outside of her field of vision on her left side. A desperate plan came to her, to pit one hunter against another...

DM Briefing- A practiced ranger has left her weapons at home while hunting for truffles of some type and has been prowled upon by a starving wolf. The creature is bearing down on her after a twelve hour slow chase, and her only salvation is a bear, which is looking for a lost cub. The ranger will have to use wild empathy to get the bear to attack the wolf for her, while she makes good her escape. PCs can be the ranger, one of the animals, or perhaps have heard this tale around an inn's fire one night.

Source: http://jezebel.com/a-woman-was-stalked-for-twelve-hours-by-a-wolf-until-a-1 782216492

122. Unarmed Mother Takes On Mountain Lion To Save Her Son

"MAMA! MAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!" The little boy's voice had a note of true fear in it, she was almost relieved to hear that this wasn't a prank.
"What, boy?" She snapped, just in case it was, but his the wild look in his eyes made concern well up within her.
"A MONSTER! IT HAS MARRY!" The boy pointed in the direction of his little brother frantically. The boys had been playing in the yard.
The fire was forgotten as she ran with her son to behold a grisly sight- a mountain lion had pounced upon her youngest child. A primal roar filled her throat as she threw herself onto the beast, heedless of the pain and damage she was doing to her fingers and hands as she gripped the animal's jaws and began to pry them apart. Red blood gushed as the child let out an agonized moan.
"Get in the house, Marry. Now." Her voice was steady and betrayed none of the fear she felt. Her hands throbbed in agony, but she dare not let go. The mountain cat began to writhe in her grip, frustrated at being denied a meal, but her overall weight and size kept it from moving. A ball of energy seemed to burst within her as she hurled it away from them both. The cat didn't fly very far, but it did find its feet without a problem and let out an angry yowl. She placed herself, wounds flowing freely, between the cat and her son, determined to hold her ground...

DM Briefing- An unarmed woman does battle with a mountain lion to save her child, who has already been wounded by the beast. The mother has taken several serious bites and scratches herself, but refuses to let the beast have her child. PCs can be the mother, the child(as part of the character's backstory), the mountain lion, or just people who have heard the latest scuttlebutt at the inn.

Source: http://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/mom-fights-off-mountain-lion- to-save-5-year-old-son-in-colorado-w210528

123. Rare Medal Found In Garbage

The garbage was particularly putrid today, considering the heat, but one wouldn't know by looking at the kids. They darted this way and that just outside the offal, playing a thousand games of pretend. Although those days were behind him, it never failed to make Vim smile. He stretched, and felt his bones pop, not all of them in a good way. Time was taking its toll upon him, and soon it would take everything, but until then, he enjoyed the sun and ignored the oppressive heat as best he could.
A glint in the summer sun caught his eye as his granddaughter flicked a throwing disc at a playmate. Vim hadn't lifted a sword or slept around a smoky campfire in decades, but he knew the glint of gold when he saw it. He hopped to his feet and scurried over, filching the makeshift toy in mid-air.
The kids were good natured and thought he was just joining in the game. But he flipped the disc this way and that- it was much smaller in his hand than in theirs. There was no mistaking it. It was gold.
"What's wrong, grandpa?" The little girl must have seen something in his face.
"Where did you find this, dearheart?" He flipped it around, and noted the medallion was missing something on the back, where it was notched as if a sister piece would fit into it. The loop at the top was for a particularly broad ribbon of some sort.
"In the garbage, grandpa!" The little girl was incredulous that her wise grandfather would waste his time with something so worthless.
"This is part of something...something big." He smiled down at the little girl, who looked up at him innocently...

DM Briefing: A little girl finds a sizeable gold medallion in the trash. A simple Knowledge: Local check has it associated with a semi annual sporting event, and an Appraise check reveals that while the medallion is worth no small amount of money on its own, it would be worth far more with all its parts in place. PCs are called in to find the remaining pieces by the man who found it, or perhaps hired by the original owner to talk to the man who has found the last piece of this treasure, perhaps to buy it from him or take it by force.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/olympics/joe-jacobi-recovers-1992-olympic-g old-medal-after-its-found-in-the-trash/ar-AAhoeko?li=BBnb7Kz&ocid=iehp

124. Lightning Strikes Kill Scores Of Farm Workers
BOOM! The storm was incessant. The sky was near pitch-black. All Cabrin could do was run. The rain was just not stopping. Then the sky went white. A shadow to his side simply fell as if they were a marionette with their strings cut. Then the massive clap of thunder again. Cabrin dropped to a knee to investigate the body. Sweet, simple Inin was gone, his chest blackened by the stroke of lightning. A look of agony was etched across his face permanently. Cabrin's heart broke, but there was no time to mourn. Cabrin had to keep running, make for shelter. He could be next. He ran for the shed like a man possessed when a crash of lightning off to his side blew him off his feet. He could swear he heard a disgruntled grumble instead of a peal of thunder when the sound finally came...

DM Briefing: Seventy-four farmers and farm workers are killed by lightning strikes, possibly from the same storm system as above. PCs are called in to investigate, but a storm-god popular in the campaign is seen as responsible- npcs could be courting any PC clerics of that god or attacking them, depending on the alignment and popularity of both god and cleric.

http://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/lightning-kills-74-people-mostl y-farmworkers-in-india/ar-AAhqFtj?ocid=iehp

125.Mysterious Masked Bard Accidentally Shows Face
The music reached a cresendo, perfectly timed with the bard reaching a high note in her aria. The crowd cheered heartily, but the note was heard even over their jubilation. She held it longer than necessary, but her fans didn't care. They enjoyed the moment and appreciated her skill. After all, it was no easy thing to sing with one's face and head cloaked in cloth to protect their identity. Some in power did not appreciate her music, and only through protecting her identity would she be free of harassment.
Just then, the wind shifted. It was a brief gust, but just enough to disrupt the cowl. Part of her face was exposed. She recovered quickly, but a ripple of surprise went through the crowd. This was no accident...

DM Briefing: A mysterious masked bard has used an interesting cowl to protect their identity at numerous concerts. However, most recently, she seems to have been undone by a gust of wind- possibly the spell. PCs could be fans in the audience, part of her entourage, the bard herself, or hired by a rival to magically expose her identity.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/music/news/sia-revealed-singer-accidentally-shows- her-face-during-concert/ar-AAhxR5q

126. Discontinued Beverage Once Again Available

The line for the pub was around the block. People were dancing in the streets as if something truly miraculous had occurred. A comely woman came up and kissed Ulod full on the mouth before laughing and skipping away. The grizzled warrior was as confused as he had ever been. He caught the attention of a member of the watch, who was trying to keep the scene as orderly as possible.

Ulod couldn't believe it. Crystaldew hadn't been bottled in over a decade, much less barreled. Ulod subtly stepped into line and kept his coin purse close...

DM Briefing- Crystaldew, a rare non-alcoholic beverage that has not been made in over a decade has- recently been reintroduced to the public. People of means are already making plans to horde the substance even as a certain aging segment of the population celebrates its general availability. PCs are somehow caught up in the celebration, and may be planning to corner the Crystaldew market themselves.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/foodanddrink/restaurantsandnews/this-popular-drink -from-the-90s-is-making-a-comeback/ar-AAhM81t?li=BBnbfcL

127.World's Largest Diamond Unable To Find Buyer

"Do I hear a bit of 850,000 pieces of gold? Maybe 700,000?"

Mouths turned into hard lines in the audience, and fans did not move. Illyana sobbed softly, and Siam's heart broke.
"Very well. No bids on #14132, a 1,109 carat diamond. Next item..."

DM Briefing- A diamond touted as the world's largest has failed to sell at auction due to an inability to get the minimum asking price of 700,000 gold. While the gem is indeed valuable, it may turn into something of albatross as the owner cannot move it, even at auction. PCs could have stumbled upon the diamond itself during their adventures, may be working security for the event, or even be planning to steal it.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/worlds-largest-uncut-diamond-fails-to-s ell-in-london/ar-AAhMJ6g?li=BBnb7Kz

128.Graveyard at the End of the World Holds Unique Bodies

The spell was cast, and suddenly, everyone could breathe. The party fell to the ground in a heap of gasping, exhausted bodies. Murado later claimed that a latent anti-magic field was active in the area, but at that moment he was a hero, not the goat.
"Are we here?" Ruben asked noone in particular. "Did we make it to-"
"The End of the World." Isassa murmured. "Yes. Where else would this be?" the priestess asked, gesturing at the alien landscape.
The party travelled for not even a quarter an hour before they encountered the first wreck, a heap of metal and scrap iron worn down to its framework by the patient desert winds. It was far larger than any mere wagon, and looked to be attached to the system of rails that crisscrossed the landscape. Ruben started to sketch it even as the party moved on to the next hulk, which had its metal skin even paint on in some places. Murado fell to his knees and began taking samples of paint and metal shavings.
"Sweet Novis," Isassa said. "The legends are true. This is a graveyard. But what ARE these?"
"Dunno," the wizard murmured. "But when we get back to civilization, there will be a lot of people eager to help us find out."

DM Briefing: A party of adventurers has finally made its way to the Graveyard at the End of the World. But there they find not bodies but massive rusting metal hulks in a desert crisscrossed with tracks of some kind. PCs are called in to investigate, or perhaps have found this place before any others.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/article/photo-story-the-train-graveyard-at- the-edge-of-the-world/ar-AAhM8he?li=BBnbklE&ocid=iehp

129.Grizzly Bear Kills Nouveau Explorers

By the time Pierce knew what was happening it had already happened. Wiam was dead with his bicle beside him, and the bear was batting around the corpse with the curiosity of a human child. Damn. The bears had picked up on human scent instead of horse. The newfangled vehicle had not offered any protection at all. Just then, the bear let out a whuff in his direction. These things were not as fast as horses, but Pierce would be damned if he was joingin Wiam in the ground anytime soon. He hopped up onto the saddle and pedaled as hard as he could. Soon the bear was left behind, but Pierce had the unenivable task of informing Wiam's wife that she was now a widow and that the watch that there was a killer bear on the loose...

DM Briefing- A pair of explorers riding new devices that are meant to replace horses with a cleaner, human powered mode of transportation come upon a Grizzly Bear, which slays one of them. PCs are called in to investigate, and may be in the pocket of people who are for or against this new mode of transportation, stating that it results in unexpected conflict with wild animals.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/grizzly-kills-mountain-biker-near-glacier- national-park/ar-AAhN25n?ocid=iehp

130. Incredibly Thick Algae Overtakes Coast

The smell was awful, like rancid buttermilk. And it was slowly overtaking the beach. Ranger Quigley sighed and nodded to his deputies, who immediately took off to put up the signs that the beach was closed. Anything to get away from the reek. The ranger took a knee and cast one of the few spells he knew. Before long a large, unusually intelligent looking seagull was in front of him, ready to relay his message. "Inform the druids that it isn't going away. It's growing." The seagull left immediately to take his message on to his superiors. Bearing the stench, Quigley went to the water's edge and placed a fistful of the stuff into a jar. The algae was pleasantly cool, at least. But the tourists- who brought hundreds of gold pieces into the area- just wouldn't see it that way...

DM Briefing- An algae bloom off the coast of a quiet town is killing tourism as it is incredibly unsightly and smells horrible. PCs are brought in to either tame the algae bloom itself via magic or to investigate the cause of yet another massive bloom in this area, which has been tied to everything from local government to businesses to judgements from above.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/guacamole-thick-algae-causes-cr isis-on-florida-coastline/ar-AAhNXLd?li=BBnb7Kz

131. Ancient Lobster, Given Reprieve From Dinner Table, Dies From Old Age

Pastin opened the case gently, not wanting to frighten the little fellow. The sweat poured from his forehead as he removed the latches, the summer heat already arguing with him despite the fact it was not even the tenth bell. Just then, he was able to remove the lid to view one of the world's oldest lobsters- a relic from an earlier age according to the sages, spared from a stewpot almost a century ago and now kept on as something a curiosity. He stepped back to give the creature some air.

But it didn't seem to do much for it. It simply sat there, unmoving. Pastin's heart didn't quite break, but he felt a tinge of sadness- it seemed the creature succumbed to old age in transit. He waved over the druid that had been called in to assist in resettling the lobster, and was surprised when he let out an anguished cry- and AMAZED when he started administering last rites. A pair of rangers, perhaps notified by the druid's magic, burst into the room and began investigating the box that he had just opened. Pastin backed out of the room the instant he was sure he would not be noticed. This was crazy...

DM Briefing: An ancient lobster, spared from a death by boiling to feed a nobleman some decades ago, has died while being transported to an area where he would be able to live out the rest of his days. Most do not care, but some are moved by the creature's plight, and rangers and druids are horrified by what happened, claiming that the time has come to end the barbaric practice of cooking creatures alive. PCs fall into one of these categories.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/foodanddrink/foodculture/larry-the-lobster-110-spa red-from-pot-dies-on-way-to-retire-in-maine/ar-BBv052S?ocid=iehp

132. Watchman Confuses Pastry Residue for Drugs

The hand crossbow must have seemed to be as large as a ballista for the distance it was being held from the old-timer. To his credit, the older man didn't falter or shake. "I'm telling you, officer, it is NOT what you think it is!" His ears had turned a bit red, but that was all that showed of the man's anger.
The officer was angry too, but far more obvious in his display, with a face twisted into a sneer. "The magic doesn't lie. It's substance." The officer spat the last word as if it were an oath. "You're coming with me."
Natalia had decided to stay out of it, and wanted to walk on down the street, but something about the crumbs on the man's face seemed overly familiar. He could be an addict, but they seemed like normal pastry glaze to her. She turned around to shout at the officer, but by that time the suspect had already been manacled and was being foisted into the back of the wagon. What could be illegal about pastry glaze...?

DM Briefing: A member of the watch has zealously arrested a man they believed to be guilty of smuggling drugs, only for it to be revealed that the substance they thought was drugs is nothing more than common pastry glaze. The watch is in a shambles as a result, embarrassed greatly in a time of increased scrutiny by the public. A PC can be the arrested party(who plans to sue the watch and the city), the embarrassed officer(who is relying upon the police union for protection), members of the watch unaffiliated with the officer in any way other than that they work in the same city, or part of an angry populace, upset with what seems to be an incompetent police force.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/report-cops-mistake-krispy-kreme-glaze- for-meth/ar-BBuZMGf?li=BBnb7Kz&ocid=iehp

133. Clown Wandering City Scares Passersby

The night was calm. Trusty Persana, new to her rank, couldn't help but have her chest swell with pride. It was not long that this part of town was full of drunks, dust-heads, and worse. Now it was quiet, if a bit run-down. But now that the watch could provide security, it was up to local business to decide whether or not to return to the area in force. She was sure it would not be long.
Just then, a scream pierced the night. Persana drew her duty club and took off in its general direction. She rounded a corner to find a woman on the ground in tears, frightened, but otherwise unharmed at first glance. "What happened? Who did this to you?"
"It..it were the clown..Black floaters...scared the life out of me!!" The victim looked more angry than scared at this point.
"Did he hurt you? Mug you?" The victim shook her head at each question. Trusty Persana sighed with a mixture of relief and frustration. "Ma'am, if he didn't do anything...other than scare you...I'm not sure there's much we can do."
"I don't care." The woman's voice was rough with menace. "I want that PERVERT off the street!"
Persana tried to calm her down and get a description of the clown. It wouldn't be too hard to find this guy, charging him would be another story...

DM Briefing: A man in somewhat macabre clown makeup is seen in the city. He appears only at night, and seems to take great joy in scaring- and only scaring- people who encounter him late at night. Rumors swirl that this clown is an actor, a serial killer, a bored noble, a monster in disguise- anything and everything. PCs are most likely called in to investigate as members of the watch or hired by someone else to determine the truth, but could also be the clown himself.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/offbeat/clown-wandering-city-in-the-middle-of -the-night-is-creeping-people-out/ar-BBvfrZL?ocid=iehp

134. Famed Gladiator Elected To Public Office

The well dressed man grumbled over the tallies. Counting votes paid well, but it was a high pressure and erratic job- he hadn't been called upon to do his duty in about 4 years. But it called for men and women of patience, and despite the occasional muttered oath, Einaz knew he could put up with more crap than the average fellow. Maybe it was due to his half elven blood.

Einaz couldn't believe it. Marko "The Man-Beast" was a noted gladiator, but no one had heard from him after his last bout several years ago. Most assumed he had either died or retired. Just then a smiling, waving fellow appeared in the midst of the crowd- the "Man-Beast" himself, and quite cleaned up, having left his broadsword in the arena, shaved cleanly, and dressing even better than Einaz had. He began a speech highlighting the importance of the will of the people and the common man. Einaz was shocked to find him to be so erudite, but then again, he knew the importance of acting while in the arena...

DM Briefing: A gladiator of small renown quietly runs and is elected to public office in a town of modest size. He begins to make changes for the common folk of the city, and is hailed, although his political career is just beginning. PCs can be part of his campaign, fellow gladiators looking to get into politics, or perhaps satisfied(or dissatisfied!) voters.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/tv/celebrity/wwe-star-wins-michigan-house-republic an-primary/ar-BBvh3h3?li=BBnbfcL&ocid=iehp

135. Man Wins Island In Raffle

"Number 820142! Number 820142!" The caller at the parlor looked around expectantly, as did several guests, but it seemed the owner of that ticket was not in attendance. He shrugged and began to reach for another ticket when the man running the show put out a hand to stop him.
"No. It's 820142. If that's what the ticket says, that's who it is. No need to draw another number. There should be some contact information on the back."
Upon verifying that was the case, the caller informed everyone present that the raffle had concluded. There was no small amount of moaning and complaining at that, but the decision had been made. A courier was summoned and retrieved the ticket. Someone had just won an entire island- and in a raffle no less....

DM Briefing: A man has won an entire island in a raffle. It is located in a beautiful, tropical part of the world, and there is a small pearl diving business associated with the island. PCs are either a part of said business, have won the island for themselves, or are hired by the new owner to act a security or perhaps scout the less tamed areas.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/man-who-won-pacific-island-resort-in-r affle-weighs-his-future/ar-BBvhnTK?li=BBnbfcL&ocid=iehp

136. Volcano Seems To Smile As It Erupts

"Gods, run, RUN!" The cowards ran as fast as they could, escaping the smoke coming from the volcano. Pina, Cleric of The Smoking Crown, could only pity them. The volcano would not erupt for several days- if it even did. But Pina was quite optimistic that it would, Emberbreath did not show his favor and then suddenly take it away. A quick prayer allowed him to take to the air and better view the spectacle from above.

Once high enough, Pina couldn't help it- he started laughing uproariously. The whole thing was a joke that his god was playing upon gullible outlanders. At his height, Pina could see two dots for eyes and a smiling slash of a mouth in the lava. He could not claim he knew what had encouraged his god to such mirth, but if he was laughing, he certainly was going to laugh with him...

DM Briefing: A volcano is about to erupt in a week's time, and people are evacuating the area. However, a local cleric of a deity of fire and lava has viewed the volcano from above and states that this is all some sort of joke the god is playing. Any who also take to the air can see a smiling face in the lava. PCs are hired to determine what this means, or perhaps to help evacuate the city before the volcano explodes in a display of the god's laughter.

Source: http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-36921980

137. Famous Con Man Pretending To Be Far-Off Prince Arrested

"..and so, I write to you, pleading for your assistance, goodsir/ma'am. I need but a dozen pieces of gold to retake my empire." Olukoya dropped the quill suddenly as a cramp chose that moment to afflict him. He couldn't help but chuckle at his fortune over the years. Yes, he was getting old, but skimming a few coins off the top of wealthy foreign purses via letters of cheque helped to keep him young. He finished the letter, folded the parchment in the ridiculous fashions adopted by the south, sealed it with wax and called for the page.
Just then, a gigantic crash came from upstairs, followed by sounds of a verbal argument. Olukoya cursed, abandoned his letters and reached for the wand he kept in the drawer next to his desk. He wasn't sure what was going on, but it didn't sound good. He was fumbling with the dials when the door to his basement burst open and the constables flooded the room. He considered using a secondary wand to cause the letters to go up in smoke and flame, but there were too many people inside for it to occur unseen. It seemed that after 20 years, the jig was finally up...

DM Briefing: A con man of almost urban-legend status has been caught after twenty years of sending letters to elderly and gullible folk claiming to be a deposed prince from a foreign land. The evidence against him is overwhelming, and his assets have been seized. He is looking at a long jail sentence, and his ill-gotten goods are being returned to their rightful owners. PCs could be part of the constabulary that raids the home, a person who was taken in the scam and is looking for money back, or somehow otherwise involved in this rather elaborate scheme, which includes more people than was originally thought and had many moving parts.

Source: http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2016/08/02/top-nigerian-prince-ema il-scammer-arrested/87945460/

138. Man Mourned Twice In Publication; Once By Wife, Again By Girlfriend

The printing press finally came to a rest as the last of the placards mourning the deceased and noting his accomplishments lay in the collection tray. Paris nodded to the underscribe, who collected the papers quietly and placed them to the side for distribution. The funeral would start in two days, and the finishing touches were being put on the ceremony.
Just then something caught his eye. "Dammit," he grumbled, "We messed up. We ran two survival blurbs." He called for the underscribe, who looked none too happy about starting to printing press again.
"No...wait." Sister Ulanna, who saw to many of the funerals as a priestess of Ophelia, the Goddess of Tragedy, called out to them both while reading over the original submission. "It's right. He is mourned by two sets of women."
Paris looked deeper into the document and saw that it was true. Under one heading he was mourned as a loving husband and father, and the other he was mourned as a caring girlfriend. Two different women stated that would love him forever.
Paris sighed as the priestess smiled. It seemed like some kind of altercation was going to break out at this funeral, much to her patron's delight...

DM Briefing: A man who has recently passed away is apparently being mourned by two women- one his wife, the other his girlfriend, or perhaps mistress. Details are unclear, but it could be that the man was divorced and found love after the end of his marriage, was cheating on his wife, or something else. PCs attend the funeral, and are affiliated with one faction or another.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/offbeat/mans-dueling-obituaries-name-wife-in- one-girlfriend-in-other/ar-BBvjkqQ?ocid=iehp