139. International Sportsman Becomes 30th Player to Hit 3000 Balls In His Career.
The crack of the bat hitting the ball was soon drowned out by the cheering fans celebrating the achievement. Shiro ran for the base, but found that he couldn't focus on the man covering the base- his eyes were heavy with tears. His 3000th hit. Only 29 other men had done that before him- he was now the 30th- a number of power, he knew. As he came to a slow trot to take his base, he was not surprised to see a solar bearing the heraldry of Kurgess waiting there instead of the first baseman- unbeknownst to all but him, of course. White light filled his vision as he accepted his reward from the god of noble competition...
DM Briefing: A sports legend has managed to his 3000 balls in his career as a professional ball player. He is the 30th man to do so, and as a result some numerologists believe he is a figure of great note. Some say he has displayed unique abilities since completing the feat, and the PCs are called in to investigate this man to determine the truth.
Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/mlb/ichiro-becomes-30th-player-to-reach-300 0-hits/ar-BBvmug9?ocid=iehp
140. Famed Wolf Pack Missing, Feared Dead
Amelia hated the cold, but the news was so dire she had no choice but to head north. Stepping off the boat without preamble, she breathed the words to a spell and she instantly knew where she had to go. She travelled over snow and rock on foot for hours before finding the body- a wolf of above average size lay slain, a crossbow bolt having pierced through him at extreme range. She whispered a prayer over the body and began to collect the rocks necessary to cover him. Considering his size, he was probably the alpha of the pack- a pack which would starve without its alpha. After the body was covered, she said a quick prayer, and then whispered another spell over the crossbow bolt that slew the alpha. She had a face before long. She was a fair artist, and ignored the cold to draw the likeness in charcoal on parchment. The nearest town was only 49 miles away. It was time to start asking some questions...
DM Briefing: A strangely whimsical wolf pack that was beloved by the local population as well as tourists has gone missing. After some time has passed, the pack's alpha has been found dead, slain within the confines of a wildlife preserve. While this is normally illegal, this particular preserve is considered sovereign territory , immune to the laws of the surrounding country. Hunters in the area claim they have the right to protect themselves and their property, those who disagree point out that the wolves were all that was keeping the now-growing population of vermin and other nuisances in check, pointing out that they rarely take down the larger prey animals, who are wise enough to avoid them when possible. PCs are affiliated with one or the other groups, may simply be passing through the area, or are part of the troupe of rangers and druids seeking the person who slew the pack alpha.
Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/storied-alaska-wolf-pack-beloved-for-decad es-has-vanished-thanks-to-hunting/ar-BBvqgBq?li=BBnbfcL&ocid=iehp
141. Fox's cunning pill on the black market
[i]Bongo the barbarian did a face palm as Wizzo said it. "I can't enter the wizard competition. I always use the pill to boost my intelligence, and they detect for that.!"
DM Briefing: Pushers are now selling a pill that functions as the restricted spell fox cunning. It is high tech and while it doesn't detect as magic, it does as a mild poison. For ten minutes it boosts intelligence by 4, then for 10 minutes intelligence drops by 4 below their normal intelligence. It sells for twice what Owl's Wisdom costs per dose. While it grants bonus spells and higher level spell ability, it then causes the loss. Thus using it may cause the temporary loss of some spell slots and ability to cast higher level spells. It radiates very high tech if you have a way to detect that.
Source:http://nbc-today.com/limitless-pills-sweep-the-nation/?source=social pubs&a=44
PS: I may have been confused by the core rulebook not having a write up for the spell. Further research has shown it to be referenced by items and the Sorcerer/Wizard spell lists. Sorry.
141. Fox's cunning pill on the black market
[i]Bongo the barbarian did a face palm as Wizzo said it. "I can't enter the wizard competition. I always use the pill to boost my intelligence, and they detect for that.!"
DM Briefing: Pushers are now selling a pill that functions as the restricted spell fox cunning. It is high tech and while it doesn't detect as magic, it does as a mild poison. For ten minutes it boosts intelligence by 4, then for 10 minutes intelligence drops by 4 below their normal intelligence. It sells for twice what Owl's Wisdom costs per dose. While it grants bonus spells and higher level spell ability, it then causes the loss. Thus using it may cause the temporary loss of some spell slots and ability to cast higher level spells. It radiates very high tech if you have a way to detect that.
Source:http://nbc-today.com/limitless-pills-sweep-the-nation/?source=social pubs&a=44
PS: I may have been confused by the core rulebook not having a write up for the spell. Further research has shown it to be referenced by items and the Sorcerer/Wizard spell lists. Sorry.
PSS: If there are no spell slots to temporarily subtract, the user becomes dazed till it wears off.
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142. Rare Four-Eared Cat Finds New Home
"No, too scrawny. No, too fluffy. No, too fat." Domino kept his own counsel as his employer went past cage after cage, looking for a new companion after Ms. Tinkles finally joined her ancestors. He would never admit it, but he loved that patient old tabby, who went old, blind and senile in her time before finally expiring. The lady of the house was morose for weeks, and this was her first time out of the house. It would not do for her to be without a companion, and he wasn't surprised she chose another cat. But what animal would be so patient as to put up with such an empty-headed fuss budget?
"Miaou." It seems a little fellow had put his proverbial hat in the ring. His boss was over the moon, cooing with delight at the black cat, which gazed at her quietly with big, yellow eyes. Domino noted the cat's curious ears, which seemed to be split in the middle, making it seem like it had four of them, although his employer clearly had not noticed. "Domino! Pay the woman at the front! Mr. Batouski is coming home with us!" Domino hesitated at the name, and the cat seemed to quirk an eyebrow. The half elf butler couldn't help but laugh.
"Welcome to your new home, little sir," he said after passing the skinny woman at the front desk a pouch filled with silver...
DM Briefing: A local dilettante of no small means has come into possession of a cat that seems to have four ears. It is quite patient and intelligent, but otherwise ordinary. There are nonetheless those who swear the creature is jinxed somehow, and may go so far as to hire the PCs to determine the truth.
143. Man Swallows Forty Knives, Survives Having Them Removed
The chirurgeon was drenched with sweat. A nearby aide moved to wipe him down, but he grunted the offer away. He dropped the most recently unearthed discovery into the tin. This made forty. This particular one was particularly sharp, with a fingernail-sized jewel in the hilt. Another assistant moved his hands over the unfortunate's distended belly in a practiced figure-8 motion, and then looked up and nodded curtly- that was the last of them. The chirurgeon slumped into a nearby chair. The man had swallowed forty knives, and had not just survived by had only suffered minimal damage to his throat and stomach. Maybe he was a thief that had fallen upon hard times, or a carnival worker who had become addicted to his act? He called for his partner, who would suture the man's belly and wake him after the procedure. Just then, the jewel in the most recently removed knife caught his eye. It seemed...appealing..somehow. The chiurgeon secreted it away as soon as his partner arrived, knowing all eyes would be on the man on the table, who had survived despite the long odds. While he certainly wasn't going to swallow it, maybe it would serve as a new scalpel. He would have it examined by a cleric- no, not a cleric, a wizard would be a much wiser choice- in the morning...
DM Briefing: A local man of no great means goes to see the chirurgeon as opposed to a cleric, complaining of stomach pain. Under some questioning, he does admit that he has swallowed forty knives of his own free will. He somehow survives the procedure and returns to his life, stating that he did feel somewhat depressed over the past few days, but nothing more. PCs are called in to investigate the fellow, the knives he swallowed, or more likely, both.
Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/health/medical/doctors-remove-40-knives-from-india n-mans-stomach/ar-BBvUraK?li=BBnb2gg&ocid=iehp
144. New Sun Oil Makes Users Smell Like Fried Chicken
The sun was high in the sky and the summer heat was inescapable. Rich and poor were cheek by jowl at the beach on this day, doing everything they could to get some relief from the heat. The water was surprisingly cold, and most scampered back and forth between the unforgiving heat of the sand and the chill of the water, a humorous scene to be sure. Ulod smiled as he took it in. It was nice to get some rest and relaxation in.
Just then, he smelled lunch. Fried chicken, to his nose, was cooking somewhere in the vicinity, and although he knew cooking on the beach was illegal, it would be hard to find a watchman so uncompromising to demand the 3 copper fine for an unattended public cookfire on a day like this. Or not. Maybe a beach goer would be in need of someone to put in a good word with the watch, and be willing to share a meal with their advocate..?
He walked for a good 5 minutes in circles, but found no chicken- Just a few bathing beauties adoring the sun. He noticed one seemed a bit less sun-brown than her bretheren, and so was applying oil to herself. Just then it struck him. He wasn't smelling frying chicken, he was smelling frying long-pig. Ulod approached the young woman slowly but friendly-like: he didn't want to startle her or seem like he was interested in a way she wasn't.
"Uh..miss? Do you realize that oil makes you smell like..ah...dinner?" He gave her a smile that he hoped was disarming and not awkward.
"I KNOW, right?" The half elven girl splashed more on, and Ulod swore he could hear a bubbling hiss sound as she rubbed it into her flesh. "It's the latest thing! You should give it a try yourself, you're looking a little pasty!" She tossed him the bottle and lay down, letting the sun do its work. Ulod noted a picture of an extremely tan, well to do man on the label...
DM Briefing: A food company has branched out into sun oils, putting out one that once applied to skin that is left in the sun smells and sounds like their own famous fried chicken cooking. It has become quite a hit and bottles are selling quite quickly. At least one adventuring party has hit upon the idea of using the sun oil as bait to attract monsters to a hapless fellow that they and their party would then "save", the PCs count somewhere in this number.
Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/companies/curious-flock-to-kfcs-fried-chicke n-scented-sunscreen/ar-BBvWiB1?li=BBnb4R7&ocid=iehp
143. Fisherman Keeps 10K GP Pearl Under Bed For Ten Years
Ularen yawned as the sound of the surf slowly guided him to the land of the living. His knees ached as he got out of bed, but he didn't complain- he had lived a good life, the only life he knew how to live on the coast, catching fish, clams, mussels and all manner of sea life for sale inland. Some days were less exciting than others, yes, but he had been luckier than most, he knew.
Just then, he found himself in need of a bit more luck than he had enjoyed in his life. The unmistakable pall of smoke was filling his little home- an irony, considering how close he was to the ocean- and he could hear the crackle of hungry flames making their way towards him. There was no time. He reached under the bed to grab his luck, tuck it under his shoulder, and leapt out of the nearest window, which was located conveniently next to his bed.
The flames engulfed the large hut not long after he left. Ularen couldn't help but to rub his luck- it had saved him yet again. The fire crews were lackadaisical on the island considering its location, but made their way there nonetheless. There wasn't much for them to do by the time they arrived, but they ultimately kept the fire from spreading. Before long, everything Ularen knew was in ashes. But he had his life, and that had to count for something.
As the fire crews prepared to leave, the chief cast a glance at Ularen's luck. "A fire breaks out and you save a piece of driftwood?" He quirked an eyebrow in a not-unkind way.
"Not driftwood. A souvenir from the biggest clam I ever encountered. A lucky pearl." Ularen shrugged. "It's brought me luck thus far. I'm here talking to you, aren't I?"
The fire chief's eyebrows rose. "I've never seen a pearl that large. You should take it to town. Someone may give you enough money to rebuild with it."
Ularen rubbed his chin in thought. Maybe the home burning down was a stroke of luck after all...
DM Briefing: A superstitious fisherman leading a rather humble life finds an incredibly large pearl while fishing one day. He sells it for an untold of sum for the fishing village and now finds himself the wealthiest person in the area. PCs could be guards hired to transport the pearl to its new owner, bodyguards for the newest member of the gentry, or perhaps have bought the pearl themselves for reasons known only to them.
Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/markets/fisherman-scoops-up-dollar100-millio n-pearl-keeps-it-under-bed-for-10-years/ar-BBvZRxg?ocid=iehp
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144. Late Dungsweeper Discovered To Be Millionaire Philanthropist
The service was small, even by the standards of a public funeral. Less than a score of people showed, which was no surprise- not only was this man a rather humble dungsweeper, he had outlived most of his friends and had no family to speak of. But if that was the case, Father Michael of Thalakos wondered, why was a servant of Saeet, He Who Must Be Paid, in attendance? He was not with the handful of mourners and seemed to be waiting for something. Michael whispered a prayer to his lord and approached him.
"Salutations on this sad occasion," he began. "Forgive me, but you do not seem to be with the mourners. Can I help you?"
The warpriest grunted as he turned around the face Michael. "Yes, you can act as a witness to this." He held up a rather long scroll that Michael had to squint to read. It seemed that the man who had passed had laid out several wishes to take place after his death, including a contract for any mercenaries loyal to the Gilded Edge to serve as road guards in the roughest neighborhoods in the city for a year and a day. Michael gasped. To call upon one mercenary company was expensive enough, but all of them?
"I will witness it," Michael stated, "but I cannot pay for all of this..." Michael began to look around for a clerk.
"No," the warpriest muttered as he shook his head emphatically, sending the hook swords that were a symbol of his office to clattering, "It has already been paid by the decedent. Something about wanting to clean up the streets after his death."
As Michael read on, he noticed no small amount of money was to go to the libraries and hospitals located in those same neighborhoods. He surmised that with the increased security, more people would be able to not just visit the chirugeon, but be able to access literature not normally enjoyed by the people living in the rough area. Michael whispered another prayer to his god and signed where he was bid. How the dungsweeper made the money was beyond him, but life in the city was about to get better...
DM Briefing: A dungsweeper has passed away and left a sizeable amount of money to the libraries and hospitals of the area, and has put money down so that the roads to these institutions will be guarded by mercenaries to keep all manner of charlatans from preying upon the impoverished. PCs are either part of the solution(mercenaries) or part of the problem(ne'er do wells who must contend with professional soldiery to do their work).
Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/personalfinance/janitor-secretly-amassed-an- dollar8-million-fortune-left-most-of-it-to-library-and-hospital/ar-AAiddy9? li=BBnbfcL&ocid=iehp
145. Man Details Savage Bear Attack On Public Announcement Board
Beacon's hand was red with gore as he dragged the now-pink chalk across the slate. "In summation, it was awful out there. Life is awful in Bear Country. Please be careful, my fri"
He could not write anymore. He willed his hand to move but it simply would not. Finally, he nodded to the apothecary. It was time to be dragged to the clerics, to see what they could do. Mary was agog at the man's determination to share his story with his neighbor's. There on the public messageboard was a detailed account of the mauling he suffered at the hands of not one but two bears...
DM Briefing: A man has been savaged by a pair of bears he encountered by accident while in a country so named for the creatures. Although he is not an adventurer is is not a tenderfoot either, and he was well equipped for the encounter, although he still was badly injured. PCs can be called in to seek out the animals responsible, to tend to this man's injuries, or perhaps are shapechanged druids seeking to keep the land wild.
Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/life-sucks-in-bear-country-man-details-gri zzly-attack-on-facebook/ar-BBwVsrs?ocid=iehp
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146. Remote Outpost Store Sells Equipment Of Lost Adventurers
Ulod sighed as he dragged the chest up the gentle slope in the astonishingly stubborn autumn heat. This was the furthest south he had travelled in some time, and as a bead of sweat angrily made its way into his eye, he remembered why he preferred the more temperate areas of the land. Finally, he arrived at his destination. A lone priest of Zalsha waited him at the front door of the remote outpost store, and he whispered a quick prayer over the chest to sanctify it. Ulod could only lower his head in respect, as he did not follow the goddess of rest eternal as the late Puru did.
"My apologies for your loss, traveler" the priest said in a more normal tone of voice. "Did you adventure with the deceased?"
"Yes," Ulod said, a bit embarrassed at the gruff tone of his voice, which had gone mostly unused during the long trek south. "Puru saved me more than once. But I couldn't save him, in the end. Wyvern poison." Ulod swallowed the knot of emotion that he was surprised to find rising in his throat. He quickly changed the subject. "In the fashion of your followers, he had a very specific testament..."
"Which caused you to come here after interring him. Worry not, his effects will be renewed in accordance with the faith." The nameless priest nodded to a pair of beardless boys who positively scrambled to pick up the case and bring it inside the nondescript building. As the door opened, Ulod caught a glimpse of callow would-be adventurers looking through rows and rows of neatly organized and gently used weapons, armor, and even a few items that had to be magical. His brow furrowed, Ulod turned to the priest with a question in his eyes. "Through them, Puru will live again," he explained sagely...
DM Briefing: A remote store collects the effects of lost adventurers and sells them at reduced cost to any who can make their way to the location. The store is attached to a faith that promises to bring honor to the dead and primarily focuses on selling the equipment to starting adventurers, who often lack the coin to equip themselves properly and rarely turn their nose up at items that came from those long gone. A few of them may even follow the religion. PCs are likely new adventurers who fall into one or more of these categories.
Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/article/theres-a-giant-store-in-alabama-tha t-sells-your-lost-luggage-to-strangers/ss-AAjlMWE?li=BBnbklE&ocid=iehp
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Beauty Contestants Ignore Suitor, Romance One Another Instead
Iona smiled radiantly at the wealthy bachelor who was hosting the competition. She had outlasted several competitors to make it this far, and he had a fortnight to choose one of the women assembled in the courtyard to be his new bride. Iona took a moment while the man- whose name she hadn't bothered to remember- mused over the collected beauties to determine whom he would invite to a private dinner that evening to assess her rivals. The collection of women was not particularly exotic, being mostly human women from the southeastern countryside, rife with flaxen hair and freckles from the sun. Most were svelte as opposed to buxom, as he seemed to prefer his women lithe and able to keep up with his active lifestyle. A half elf herself, Iona believed she could offer everything he was looking for, and the bit of mystery her heritage provided would help her stand head and shoulders above her fellows.
Just then, she saw her. One of the few raven haired beauties to make it this far, she seemed to be appraising the talent just as subtly as Iona was. She wondered how she had made it this far, as she far curvier than the average woman there, just shy of...gifted. Her paler skin took on the colors of the setting sun, and she seemed to be carved of gold for a moment. It took Iona a moment to realize the feelings rising within her were not ones of jealousy, and that the look that the woman returned held more warmth than heat.
When the wealthy oaf proffered a rose to another contestant, Iona found herself more relieved than disappointed...
DM Briefing: In a land where fantastically wealthy men hold obnoxiously public contests to select a bride, a pair of competitors have fallen for each other and not their patron. While this is surprising, it is far from illegal or wrong, and the public is tickled by the idea that the women have abandoned the competition for one another. Some are even interested in following this love affair in the tabloids and penny dreadfuls, and not the umpteenth incarnation of a contest that has become something of a tradition in the land. PCs can be hired to provide security for the ladies, to follow them about and journal their romance, or are simply following the saga as it unfolds.
Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/tv/news/bachelor-contestants-fall-in-love-with-eac h-other/ar-AAjo5YF?ocid=iehp
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Bridesmaids Must Guard Bride As Well As Themselves
"Oh-Okaaaaaaaaaay! Itsh time fur the BAI SUUUUUUUN!" Min smiled gracefully as the emcee's voice boomed through the hall and her ears as he announced the start of the bridal games. She could smell the alcohol on his breath from the bride's raised dais where she and her party were standing, several dozen feet away. Only her training kept her from wrinkling her nose in disgust.
At their employer's nervous glance, her sisters took their places, both symbolically and literally protecting the bride from her well-wishers; steely Xao and Ming herself would throw back a shot with every female guest that approached, nimble Venna and petite Luyuan would dance briefly with every man(and they had lacquered the subtly sharpened nails on their left hand to dissuade any who became too enthusiastic), and broad-shouldered Yan would remain behind in case any made a mad dash for the dais to accost the bride as well as to attend to her makeup. Ming subtly squeezed the bride's forearm, offering silent support. This was her 12th event, and everything was going to be just fine.
An hour and a half later, things continued to go well. She only felt a mild buzz from the fermented pear nectar, and Ming seriously doubted Xao felt even that much. She thought she even saw the bride smile a bit as her husband quietly waved to her from the opposite dais. Just a few more hours and they would be married, and their fellowship would be that much richer...
Just then a group of rowdy men laughed as they raised Luyuan in the air, apparently intent on tossing her into the river for good luck in an ancient tradition that made sense to absolutely no one. She gulped down a shot proffered by a woman old enough to be her grandmother and in a practiced motion discretely threw the glass directly into the back of the head of the leader, a boy scarcely old enough to shave. He yelped in surprise as it bounced off his thick skull and lost his grip on Luyuan, who pinched and squirmed her way out of their grasping hands with practiced ease, making it all seem as if it were a complicated part of the dance.
The groom, who looked incredibly embarrassed- these were likely his cousins- flashed a relieved smile at Ming, who offered a nod in turn. They were professionals, after all...
DM Briefing: In a land where bridesmaids must protect the bride's virtue and personage, professional parties of all female adventurers are starting to get into the business of being 'bridesmaids for a day', taking part in the traditional rough games and drinking that surround the event, as the bride's best friends and family are likely lacking such fortitude. Some question the existence of these somewhat sexist practices and it soon may fall into disuse, but until then, a few are making a true killing. PCs are hired to be bridesmaids at a wedding for the wealthy.
Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/it%e2%80%99s-so-dangerous-being-a-bride smaid-in-china-that-some-brides-are-hiring-professionals-instead/ar-AAjoU6y ?li=BBnb7Kz&ocid=iehp
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148. Business Owner Creates Private Harem Out Of Employees
Jedda couldn't help it. She ran to the commode and vomited up her breakfast. She felt tears coming on, but she steeled herself, remembering just how badly she needed this job. She pulled out a hand mirror and straightened herself up as best she could, which was pretty well, considering the unmentioned aspect of the job her lecherous employer didn't mention in the interview. A small bell was rung, indicating roll call. She smiled into the mirror, her biggest fakest smile and lined up with her coworkers.
"Mwah! Mwah! and MMMMWAH!" The pervert was making his way down the line up, kissing each female employee. Jedda felt her stomach roiling again, but as it was empty, she simply covered the noises with a light cough. She noticed one of the girls really getting into it, and she hoped that this would mean she would be spared, but no luck. He positively swaggered down the line, kissing each female employee in turn. She gave him the driest peck she could muster, and, satisfied, he moved on. She glanced down the line at those who had kissed him already and saw they were nauseated to a woman, even the enthusiastic little go-getter. Was the job worth it?
DM Briefing: A new company has started a ritual where the owner kisses female employees every day before the start of the work day. This does not violate any particular laws in this land, although it is quite unseemly. The women are starting to complain, and some are seeking outside help to resolve the problem, as the job pays well. The PCs are called in to investigate.
Source: http://www.whatsonweibo.com/beijing-company-makes-female-staff-kiss-boss-ev ery-day/
149. Country Sees First Elk In Over 200 Years
Prunefoot checked the straps of his high waters and went out to go about a day's work. Working a cranberry bog wasn't exciting, but it paid his bills and got his wife the occasional indulgence. Life was something approaching good. He closed the door to his humble home and started galumphing down to the bog. Prunefoot prided himself on his timeliness, but there was someone else who seemed to have beaten him to the bog that day. It was early yet, and the fog was incredibly thick, but he was certain someone was there, and a tall fella too. Then again, everyone seemed tall to a gnome, he thought. "Hallo!" he called out.
His only response was a strange, high pitched, whistling horn-sound, and then heavy steps as the stranger turned, presenting a quadruped, heavy-horned profile, and then vanished into the mist, apparently scared off by Prunefoot's greeting. Prunefoot had never seen anything like it before, and immediately ran off to tell his friends how he defeated the Water Boggin Of The Haunted Bog.
DM Briefing: An elk has been encountered in an area that has not had such animals in it for over two decades. Rangers and Druids are called in in equal numbers to hunt or protect the beast respectively, and PCs fall into one (or possibly both) groups.
Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/state-has-1st-elk-sighting-in-more-than-2- centuries/ar-AAjpUJw?li=BBnbfcL&ocid=iehp
150. Baby Girl Born Pregnant
"Push," Amelia commanded patiently. "Push."
"I AM PUSHING YOU IGNORANT TREE HAG!!!!!!!!!!" The woman was beyond great with child and this birthing was difficult. Still, there was no need for insults. Amelia mentally adjusted her midwifing fee as her client writhed in agony in her stirrups. She groaned as she pressed down with all her might, squeezing the stubborn little thing into the world. The thin, angry cry of a newborn child filled the room, and, just like that, the woman became a mother. She instantly cooed over the child, and Amelia began the standard divinations to ensure the child's health.
It was on the last spell that the druid realized something was wrong. The baby's life aura was far too powerful for one so young. She tried another spell and instantly went white.
"What is it? Is something wrong?" The mother's voice approached quavered with fear.
"I'm not sure how to tell you this, madam, but your daughter is...pregnant." She cast the spell again, and it gave her another positive indication.
The new mother laughed at the idea. "If this is some ploy to increase your purse, it won't work."
Amelia waved away the incredulity of it all, and grabbed her hand in all seriousness. "My spells do not lie. Your baby will be fine, but she must find me, or another druid, when she comes of age. She is of the Twice-Born..."
DM Briefing: A baby has been born pregnant, with magical spells revealing that another life is quickening inside her. While this is usually an undeveloped sibling that is often "eaten" by the stronger child in the womb, in this case the life is developing in the womb of the infant. It is unknown whether or not this child is viable, but considering the amount of magic her mother has spent in her development and birth, it may indeed be. PCs can be anything from nanny-guards hired to watch over the child as she grows and develops, to siblings, parents, or even the child herself.
Source: http://www.aol.com/article/2015/02/10/baby-girl-born-pregnant-with-twins/21 141089/
151. Exploding Commode Seriously Injures Four at Inn
The roar was deafening. The stench was intolerable.
Maya couldn't see out of one of her eyes. It stung with the insistence of a grievous injury, but she was so covered in filth she dare not touch her fingers to her face to survey the damage.
"urt? Owad? UN! GET OUT NOW!" Sound slowly came back into the world as the ringing ceased. Domino, the strange half elf with his black hair and completely white eyes, pointed towards the exit, where the crowd seemed to be milling towards- so in shock they could not run, only stumble. It took longer than it should have, but the inn was completely evacuated after some time.
Nikolas, a wage mage known to the proprietor, made his way over to the bucket brigade that was relaxing now tha ttheir job was done. The smile on his face was completely inappropriate to the situation. "The spell was centered..on the commodes," he chuckled. "The COMMODES!" He laughed, and walked away without another word...
DM Briefing: A violent prankster of some sort has centered a number of fireball spells on commodes at a local inn. Four people have been injured. PCs are called in to investigate.
Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/exploding-hotel-toilet-puts-four-guest s-in-hospital/ar-AAjtuwm?li=BBnb4R7&ocid=iehp
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146. Remote Outpost Store Sells Equipment Of Lost Adventurers
Ulod sighed as he dragged the chest up the gentle slope in the astonishingly stubborn autumn heat. This was the furthest south he had travelled in some time, and as a bead of sweat angrily made its way into his eye, he remembered why he preferred the more temperate areas of the land. Finally, he arrived at his destination. A lone priest of Zalsha waited him at the front door of the remote outpost store, and he whispered a quick prayer over the chest to sanctify it. Ulod could only lower his head in respect, as he did not follow the goddess of rest eternal as the late Puru did.
"My apologies for your loss, traveler" the priest said in a more normal tone of voice. "Did you adventure with the deceased?"
"Yes," Ulod said, a bit embarrassed at the gruff tone of his voice, which had gone mostly unused during the long trek south. "Puru saved me more than once. But I couldn't save him, in the end. Wyvern poison." Ulod swallowed the knot of emotion that he was surprised to find rising in his throat. He quickly changed the subject. "In the fashion of your followers, he had a very specific testament..."
"Which caused you to come here after interring him. Worry not, his effects will be renewed in accordance with the faith." The nameless priest nodded to a pair of beardless boys who positively scrambled to pick up the case and bring it inside the nondescript building. As the door opened, Ulod caught a glimpse of callow would-be adventurers looking through rows and rows of neatly organized and gently used weapons, armor, and even a few items that had to be magical. His brow furrowed, Ulod turned to the priest with a question in his eyes. "Through them, Puru will live again," he explained sagely...
Bookmarking this for later. May add this practice to Zalsha's wiki page.
152. Medium Tells Rich Widow To Atone For Husband's Sins
The old woman was dressed poorly for the well-to-do dinner: while not a peasant, her clothes were little more than carefully mended second-hand cloaks and comforters- the sign of a devoted of Yenna. The apertif hour drew to a pause as the hostess grasped the hand of the guest of honor. As Yenna spoke through dreams, her servant fell into a strange sort of trance.
"Thirteen," she croaked. "Towards the sunset. As the hand of Wada escorted so many across to the land of the dead, Your husband's hand." The hostess, a plump, pale woman, did not bother hiding her tears. She had indeed been widowed thirteen days before, when her husband failed to awaken one morning. Some claimed Novisian assassins, but Sarah knew better. He had been haunted by the faces of those the new crossbow he had designed for the war had claimed. The lost souls came for him that night.
"They are indeed lost," the hedge onieromancer murmured. "You must build a new home for them." Stunned that the priestess had read her thoughts so easily, she leaned in closer to hear her whispers...
DM Briefing: The wealthy widow of a weapons designer has undertaken a massive, eccentric project: building a home for the souls of those lost to the weapon's touch. The home is sprawling, and follows a theme of the number 13 and spider webs. PCs could be called in to assist in the construction of the manse, to investigate the deaths of those working upon it, are descended from one of the souls said to live there, or are simply exploring it after it has fallen into disrepair.
Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/smart-living/29-scary-stories-american- horror-story-should-tackle-next/ss-AAjeWhl?ocid=iehp&pfr=1#image=9
153. Wizard Unable To Turn Off Spell, Terrorizes Family
Trusty Persona hated magic. No, that wasn't quite right. She hated mages. Their long-winded monkey-babble rewrote reality and ruined lives. Sometimes, even their own.
"It keeps being traced back to here," the robed man with the tragically fashionable moustache loops insisted. "But it isn't me. The spell doesn't work that way. You KNOW that to be true!" He was shouting at the wage mage the watch had hired at this point, who was doing what he could to calm the complainant.
"Cannot turn his own spell off," Persona muttered. How was she going to write this one up...?
DM Briefing: A collection of wizards and arcanists of modest power have complained to the watch that a spell of whispered communication- one so common it is used by all of means- has reached their ear, sending dire threats detailing how they will die. Watchmen take the complaints, but any spells used to determine the origin of the sending reveal that the complainant themselves cast the spell. This is not how the spell works, and it has left those investigating scratching their heads. Further complainants detail that the spell describes the complainants summoning the watch, and mocks them for doing so. PCs are called in to investigate, or are affected by the dark prank in some way.
Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/smart-living/29-scary-stories-american- horror-story-should-tackle-next/ss-AAjeWhl?ocid=iehp&pfr=1#image=10
155. Magical Game Has Soul Trapped Within
Cheve could hardly believe his luck. This magical game combined all manner of illusion and could be controlled by gesture. And for only half a dozen silver? A steal. But there was something... off. The little fellow he controlled on his dragon slaying quest was not moving, no matter how many times he ordered him to. He was staring directly at Cheve, looking almost..maudlin? The little chapbook that came with the game didn't describe this at all. For the umpteenth time, Cheve bade the little fellow to move, jump, swing his sword, do *something*. Instead, he waved. Waved! As if he was trying to get Cheve's attention. Drowned. The word appeared above the little apparition's head. My name is Ben. I was like you once. But I drowned...
DM Briefing: A popular magical game that allows the player to control an illusory hero is discovered by its owner to be haunted by the spirit of a boy named Ben, who drowned some time ago. The spirit is not malicious, but it shares its story repeatedly with whomever plays this particular game, pleading with them to solve the mystery of his death. PCs are either the people who own the game, or are hired by someone who does to bring the spirit to rest.
Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/smart-living/29-scary-stories-american- horror-story-should-tackle-next/ss-AAjeWhl?ocid=iehp&pfr=1#image=11
156. Cursed Magical Item Kills All Who Own It
"FOOLS!" The sorceress sent a rope of lightning through her foes, immolating one outright and sending all but New Moon sprawling. She snatched a dagger from its sheath at her waist and scrambled behind a column. One good toss was all she needed...
Just like that, the sorceress appeared out of thin air, right in front of her. There was no time to alter the direction of her throw. The sorceress pointed a finger at her, and told her to die. New Moon felt her heart lurch, and the air vanished from her lungs. This was it. This was death.
But it was the sorceress that clutched her own chest. She grasped a speaking stone, one covered in...eights, to New Moon's reckoning. It was vibrating loudly, indicating there was a message for her. The sorceress would never get to hear it. She slid to the floor, dead.
Air returned to New Moon's lungs, and her heartbeat was regular again. Behind her, a survivor moaned. But her eyes never left the speaking stone. Had that message saved her life? She knew what part of the sorceress' treasure she wanted...
DM Briefing: A speaking stone, a magical item that allows people to speak with others who also have speaking stones at great distances, is rumored to kill anyone who owns it. It is covered in eights with a single zero somewhere upon it. It is said another eight appears upon it for every person killed, or that it will kill 8 people before losing power. PCs are either investigating a string of mysterious deaths linked to the stone, or have come into possession of it.
Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/smart-living/29-scary-stories-american- horror-story-should-tackle-next/ss-AAjeWhl?ocid=iehp&pfr=1#image=12
157. Ghost Ship Sends Eerie Final Message
Pierce hated his job most nights. As a hedge mage, he had few options: speaking stones worked for everyone nowadays, and few places still had the much older whisperocks that only worked for arcanists. But Dakota was a fading maritime town, and all shipping companies could not afford the latest magical items...
Just then a message came in, an S.0.S from the Ouran Medan.
All officers, including the captain, dead in chartroom and on the bridge. Probably all of crew dead.
Pierce's hand shook as he transcribed the words.
I die.
Pierce's hand stopped moving entirely at that. The whisperock was not supposed to work that way- instant communication was the province of speaking stones. Where was the Ourang Medan, and what was going on upon it?
DN Briefing: The S.S.Ouran Medang sends a dire message stating everyone aboard has died- including the person who sent the message. Ths ship is found adrift near where it is supposed to be, with everyone on it dead, their mouths open in a silent scream. Eyes are wide open and unblinking. PCs are called in to investigate.
Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/smart-living/29-scary-stories-american- horror-story-should-tackle-next/ss-AAjeWhl?ocid=iehp&pfr=1#image=13
158. Boy Blames Doll For String Of Mysterious Accidents
Domino's teeth ground together as he swept up the last of the vase. His charge looked more angry than sad, but his eyes did not leave the floor.
"Xiao. Ninth Dynasty. I dont' think you can count high enough to estimate the cost."
"But it wasn't me." The boy's voice was uncharacteristically dull. "It was-"
"Robert. I know." Domino sighed and stared at the ugly little thing- the very image of the boy himself in ugly cariacture. Despite that, the boy, also named Robert, would not leave the thing's side. Every time something went wrong, he would blame the doll. Was it some unhealthy way of taking responsibility, or was he truly shifting the blame? Domino did not know. He put his broom down and pushed away his concerns. It was time to be firm.
"Three weeks without the doll." Domino snatched up the doll and locked it up in the liquor cabinet. Robert, neither boy nor toy, reacted. Domino thought it settled.
But it wasn't settled. Things continued to break and go missing. Domino considered cutting a switch after the second incident, but the boy wasn't in the room when the mirror shattered, and the signet ring that had gone missing was very prominently displayed next to the doll- in a cabinet the boy did not have the key to, nor could he even reach.
But the doll could unlock the cabinet from the inside, if its fingers could actually move. And the doll was now missing.
DM Briefing: A little boy in a well-to-do-family blames a string of accidents on a doll that is his namesake, a comically ugly chariacture of him. Evidence is mounting that the boy is not telling tall tales, as missing items are found in the doll's possession and things are going wrong outside of the boy's presence. PCs are called in to investigate after something of great value breaks or goes missing, or after a witness claims to hear an unusually deep voice conversing with the boy when he is alone with the doll.
Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/smart-living/29-scary-stories-american- horror-story-should-tackle-next/ss-AAjeWhl?ocid=iehp&pfr=1#image=14
159. Missing Hikers Found Murdered
Amelia signed sadly as she surveyed the latest of the bodies. This was likely the last, as it was said they were a party of nine. This one had frozen to death, and it was no mystery how- he was quite naked. Her grief was muted by her professionalism and confusion. Nine strong young people, found frozen to death some distance away from a shredded tent filled with the gear they needed to survive- in luxury almost, as they had ample writing and other things to occupy to the mind on a freezing winter's night. Only one of them- a girl- had suffered any violence, what with her eyes and tongue removed. The randomness of it all pointed to goblins maybe, but none were known to live this far north. Raiders would have taken their supplies. What did this...
DM Briefing: A group of nine students on a mountaineering trip have gone missing and have very recently been discovered dead- all frozen to death, although a few of the bodies are naked and one is missing its eyes and tongue. One of the bodies is covered in strange lesions. No monsters are known to be in the area, and the camp has not been robbed. PCs are called in to investigate, happen upon the scene, or are related to one of the decedents.
Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/smart-living/29-scary-stories-american- horror-story-should-tackle-next/ss-AAjeWhl?ocid=iehp&pfr=1#image=15
160. Twin Murderesses To Be Interviewed By Alienist
Doctor Wallace was almost lackadaisical in her pace as she walked the asylum's halls. She was flanked by her wallmen in any case. The unshaven ruffians were loyal to her purse if nothing else, and after making an example of an oaf who came too close, the residents made sure to give her and her retainers a wide berth.
Finally, they arrived at the cell. It was the largest the asylum had and housed two of the most disturbed minds she had ever encountered. Her hosts procured her usual chair, ink, lapdesk and quill for the interview and she found them just inside the locked door. The wallmen went in first, of course, and verified there was no danger. They set up her materials, granted her entrance, and then left her in peace.
As with previous visits, the girls were as far apart from each other as they could be. But instead of the simmering hatred that usually filled the air, there was a note of resignation. "Is there something amiss, girls?" Doctor Wallace addressed them as one, as they had requested.
"We have decided." The twins spoke in unison, as was their wont on matters of great importance. "Gennifer must go."
Doctor Wallace looked directly at Gennifer. "Is this true?"
"Yes," Gennifer said. Her voice was muted. "Gune's pain is greater than mine."
The doctor was shocked. She had long theorized that the source of the twins' discomfort- which had driven them to kill before- was based on their proximity to an unpleasant stimulus: each other. But for them to decide that one must die so that the other could live- did they truly possess sympathy for one another after all?
DM Briefing: A famous alienist is interviewing a pair of identical twin sisters- who have killed before, claiming the pain the other puts them in simply by existing drives them to it. In an asylum for their crimes, the sister have decided one of them must die for the other to live a more normal life. PCs are called in to officiate in some way, or perhaps break the curse the girls are living under.
Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/smart-living/29-scary-stories-american- horror-story-should-tackle-next/ss-AAjeWhl?ocid=iehp&pfr=1#image=16
161. Untold Riches Scattered Throughout The Land Via Airship
Subcommander Vuski let out an audible groan of exertion as he wrestled with the controls. This was more than just turbulence- something was wrong with the ship.
The footfalls behind him clattered like hailstones. He dared a backward glance and discovered he and his fellows were surrounded by the Silent Guard- the kingdom's secret police. He opened his mouth to demand how they got on the ship in the first place and what they were doing on the bridge, but the hand crossbow jammed into his back silenced his concerns. A gruff voice- one not belonging to his captain- ordered him to bring the ship down. Now.
So he did, amazed that the ship was handling so much smoother now. Once he completed post touchdown procedures, he wisely raised his hands like everyone else on the bridge. He wanted no trouble with these folk. The bridge crew was fast walked to the hold, which was freezing for some reason. The dazzling sunlight made the reason why obvious- the cargo door had busted open. Few of his crewmate complained when the manacles were clapped on their wrists. They cargo was an untold fortune in gold, set to be smelted into next years coinage. Whimpers went up as the first of the black bags went over everyone's head. Unless every bar was found, they were responsible for the lost funds...
DM briefing- An airship belonging to a lawful evil kingdom carrying millions of gold pieces worth of gold bars set to become next year's coinage has its cargo hold doors break while it is in flight, spilling a dragon's ransom across relatively empty and forbidding landscape. The race is on to find the money. Everyone from government agents to adventurers to peasants to simple passers by are now involved. The money is rightfully the property of the government, and noone can leave the area without being searched, but that doesn't stop people from trying...
Source: https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.usatoday.com/amp/431160002
162. Carnival Game Observed By Government Spymasters
Jerrod felt another wave of dizziness and nausea and he had to step away from the box. The ethereal tones went off indicating he had lost the magic enhanced game, but he was more irritated by the symptoms than anything else. They were getting worse. Igus had warned him this would happen, but he wanted to think he was an exception to the rule. Bah. It was nothing a little time away couldn't handle. He simply needed to alter the angle of his pitch on the 4th level and he would be moving on to the 5th...
On the other side of the causeway, the cloaked and cowled figure dressed in black to better blend into the shadows noted that this latest...volunteer, codenamed Sinneslöschen, had succumbed to his symptoms faster than the previous. Disappointing, but his superiors would make the necessary alterations to their secret weapon, codenamed: Polybius...
DM briefing- A shadowy government organization has made a magical game that causes bouts of illness in those who play it. They have agents observing people playing this game in the field, who subtly take notes on how long it takes for them to succumb to the symptoms. PCs are either a part of the organization or are adherents of the game.
Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/smart-living/29-scary-stories-american- horror-story-should-tackle-next/ss-AAjeWhl#image=17
163. Mysterious Creature Appears Before Tragedies
Droesyll grumbled as the oxcart moved along the suspension bridge. It swayed with the breeze, which could be unnerving in the fall, but this was the summer, as evidenced by the biting flies and depressing heat. There was nothing to worry about. So why was the swinging getting worse? Not that there was anything that he could do about it, as he was halfway across and had an excellent view of the back of the cart in front of him. Just then, a shudder went through the entire bridge. A wail went up from somewhere in front of him, and just then, he was in freefall.
In the distance, the creature flew away, heartbroken. He had tried to warn the wingless about the problems with the bridge for months, but they seemed to be unable to communicate with him or even see him...
DM Briefing- A strange creature that is a hybrid of man and moth appears before major tragedies in a sparsely populated hamlet. Few people have ever laid eyes upon the creature, and those few who have note its bizarre appearance at a great distance, as it seems to fly away not long after being observed. PCs are called in to investigate.
Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/smart-living/29-scary-stories-american- horror-story-should-tackle-next/ss-AAjeWhl#image=18
164. Ancient Monster Stalks Family
The Rhuvhn were not a founding family, but they were a storied one. The watch was in every corner of the manse, looking for clues as to the assault. Trusty Persona quietly made her way past her fellow officers, who had created a perimeter, keeping away curious onlookers. The sole witness to the crime lay within.
The drawing room was larger than her flat, but there was no time for petty jealousy. The priests were doing what they could, but it was clear from the scene that that might not be much. Blood was everywhere.
The young girl was surrounded by all manner of healers, but she seemed to only have eyes for Persona. With a strength that belied not just her injuries but her size, the girl grabbed a fistful of uniform. "He is the Rake," she said as calmly as if commenting on the weather. Then her eye- she had but one remaining- rolled to gaze at the back of her head. The healers entered a fury of activity, but Persona knew from grim experience it was all a show for grieving parents. She was gone. But at least she had a name, and with it, a clue...
DM Briefing: A strange, poorly described monster slays the youngest child of a well to do family. However, the monster seems to be linked to local legends, stretching back at least 150 years. PCs are called in to investigate.
Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/smart-living/29-scary-stories-american- horror-story-should-tackle-next/ss-AAjeWhl#image=19
165. Mysterious Staircase To Nowhere Found In Several Forests Despite Denial By Local Rangers
Devit kept formation in the Rook's Spot- third horse in the four rider formation. As he had been a ranger for over 3 years, it rankled at him.H He was no longer a trainee, but as there had been no trainees in quite a while, he was stuck as the rookie. He prayed to Kester for patience...
Just then, he saw something familiar, but extremely out of place. He called for an oh, an observational halt, quietly uttering the common interjection to avoid calling attention to themselves. His seniors stayed behind as Devit dismounted and made his way through the trees.
He could hardly believe it- right there, miles away from civilization, was a rather plush staircase, leading to what looked like absolutely nothing. His father was a carpenter, and Devit could see this was clearly a master's handiwork even at this distance. But how did it get here? He had to investigate.
The strong grip on his bicep kept him from moving forward. "I wouldn't do that." Devit turned around to see Paulides had snuck up on him. Again. "Let's go." A small, exasperated smile played on the master ranger's face.
"What? You aren't the slightest bit curious about..." Devit wildly gestured to the staircase.
"I'm surprised this is your first time seeing one," Paulides murmured dryly. "Forget you ever saw it. Or any of the others you'll see in your time here. And don't tell anyone either, especially not any city folk. Come on. Let's go."
Devit was agog as Paulides efficiently informed his fellows about the staircase, and they all reacted just as Paulides did. He fell back into the Rook's Spot, and continued his ranging in silence. But nothing about this was normal...
DM Briefing- Against the wishes of his superiors, a novice ranger spreads tales about a lavish staircase in the middle of nowhere in the forest. Any other rangers asked about this flatly deny it. PCs can be hired by the ranger to find the truth, have happened upon a staircase in the woods in the course of an adventure, or have simply heard the tale too often to dismiss it.
Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/smart-living/29-scary-stories-american- horror-story-should-tackle-next/ss-AAjeWhl#image=20
166. Unsolved Murder Spree Continues
Ved couldn't help it anymore. He vomited again. "Get the rook out of here!" Persana, now a serjent after that unpleasantness with the druid had been officially handled- instantly regretted her tone. It wasn't so long ago she was the one emptying her guts at the site of a particularly grisly sight. The rookie's partner quietly escorted him from the corpse. With that, the area was secure. Not that it settled things. This was the fourth- fourth!- murder on the Lover's Promenade in as many months. One would think that after the first two, horny kids would have started to avoid the area, but since when did raging hormones ever heed common sense?
"Sarge? My partner's fit has passed, he has something for you."
She abruptly realized the rookie wasn't there to discourage gawkers- he had been brought in to investigate using his heaven sent ability to sense sins or violence or anything inimical to law. She sauntered over to the newly minted Trusty.
"A hook. He used a hook to do...that." Ved gestured in the direction of the remains.
"A hook. So are we dealing with a laborer or some kind of farmer?" Serjent Persana still had a few contacts in the poorer parts of the city...
"No," Ved blurted out. "He has a hook in place of his *hand*." He swallowed another round of nausea.
DM Briefing: A serial killer with a hook in place of his hand has struck four times on the lover's lane in a city of some prominence. PCs are called in to investigate or are swept up in the investigation under suspicion themselves if they are missing a limb.
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Texarkana_Moonlight_Murders
167. Magical Messages Sent From Beyond The Grave
Fourteen messages was too many to be coincidence or accident. Yes, the words were usually random, or just a repeat of what he had said in earlier conversations, but Brent knew there was nothing wrong with the screamslate. The messages were indeed coming from someone who he knew had been killed in a cart accident. Someone who's funeral he had attended. Someone he loved.
*Hello.*
*Cinnamon-stickies!*
*So cold out.*
The messages were random, or so they seemed to anyone he showed them to. But few knew Deanna as he did. Few knew her well hidden love for sweets, he hatred of the cold, her abrupt demeanor. Most thought her distant and standoffish, but that was far from the truth. The screamslate allowed her to share her thoughts somewhat anonymously, and it was her complexity hat drew him to her in turn. But she was a month and a half in Brother Snikket's embrace. Noone was that complex, even Deanna.
Another message came in. Bren grabbed the device not sure if he should hunt down the person who undoubtably had her device or if he was indeed speaking with his beloved's shade. But it wasnt just any message, this time it was a figment, a magical image. It was a picture of his room, laundry strewn all over, clearly marking it as his own. It was taken by someone there right now, he recognized it as being in the state he left it in. He dropped the screamslate, nearly breaking it, when a regular message came in afterwards.
*FREEZING!!!!*
DM Briefing: A young man claims to be receiving messages from his recently deceased girlfriend via a common magical item used to sent brief written messages and images over great distances. He has verified his magical item is not broken, although he does not have access to his girlfriends, which he has magically registered as belonging to someone who has passed away and should be mostly inert. The most recent message sent shows an image of his room(which he has not returned to for days out of fear) and a message, seemingly from her, complaining about the cold. PCs can be friends of either party, be investigating the accident, or perhaps even caused it.
Source: https://creepypasta.fandom.com/wiki/My_Dead_Girlfriend_Keeps_Messaging_Me_o n_Facebook
168. Sleep Increasingly Hard To Come By At Distant School
The well dressed yet rotund man at the podium strove to create an air of calm gravitas, but mostly succeeded at looking exhausted. So did the collection of intelligensia behind him and the crowd of sparse, awkward youths in front of him. Every eye in the room was red and inflamed. A few wept. Most tears ran clear, but a few were crimson.
"It is over," he intoned. "We have found the evidence many of you were requesting. The prankster was indeed Oliver. While none of the staff wished him ill will, as dean of this college, I can only condemn his actions. He actively frightened us all with his "warnings"-"
Just then there was a furor in the crowd as a young man fainted. His eyes were wide open almost to the point of bulging, but unseeing. The dean nodded quickly to the acolyte of Aabren who had been waiting in the back for just such an occasion and continued his speech without missing a beat. He reminded everyone that the young man's death was a suicide, and not related to this flu at all, for which there were medicines, both magical and mundane, available for any who fell ill. But as the seemingly blind young man groped his way out of the room on the shoulder of the Aabrenite, tears of blood streaming from his eyes, it was clear the dean's speech had lost any gravitas he thought it had. Panic was brewing...
DM Briefing: At a well to do but rural school, a young druid in training spreads messages to the student body, complaining of an inability to sleep, pain when trying to force sleep, and then increasing incoherent messages complaining about his symptoms and possible treatment. He has recently passed away and a flu has begun to make its way through teachers and students alike with similar symptoms. PCs are either related to the deceased, students or faculty suffering the early stages of the disease, or are called in to investigate the aftermath of eyeplague.
Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/nosleep/comments/43srnh/does_it_hurt_when_you_slee p/
169. Strangely Intelligent Zombies Plague Village
The last thing New Moon remembered was running for her life as the zombies swarmed the paladin. At the time, she thought his screams were the worst thing she had ever heard. Now she would give anything to hear them again.
"Hey! You still in there? Why not come out?"
The voice was irritatingly friendly, as were the others that piped in on occasion. Or they were, once. Now it was becoming almost welcome, as she had barricaded herself in the storage room of a freshly-abandoned apothecary. Alone. For what was going on a tenday.
"It's not so bad out here, you know. We've come for you. You don't have to stay in there."
The voice had gone from welcome to...seductive, New Moon realized. She ran out of food yesterday, and she realized she had gotten lucky with the potables she had guessed at in the storage room- she had no way of knowing if her next drink would be vinegar or elderberry wine or something poisonous, the owner had labeled everything in a cipher to prevent theft. She swallowed against a hard, dry knot in her throat as she fished her hand mirror out of her pack and angled it to look out at the world by angling it just so underneath the thick, wooden door. There, they all stood, perfectly still, a welcome party of gory faces, unblinking eyes, and strangely pliable lips. They were always moving in a nearly silent prayer.
"We miss you," said one.
"Please open the door," pleaded another.
"It isn't so bad," said the last, his pristine holy symbol at odds with the gouges of flesh missing from around his neck and face...
DM Briefing: A plague of erudite zombies have fallen upon a maritime town after an accident spreads strange liquid almost everywhere. Animals that drank this liquid went rabid and feral at first, and attacked their fellows savagely, people who came in contact with the fluid were infected not long afterwards. Anyone so infected attacks others savagely, attempting to devour them as if they were ghouls or ghasts, but otherwise acting as if they were zombies- standing around listlessly, perfectly still unless stimulated. Over time, these zombies begin to communicate with any survivors of their onslaught, pleading with them to give up their refuges and join them. PCs are either survivors of one such attack, or have been called in to deal with the aftermath of one.
Source: https://creepypasta.fandom.com/wiki/Persuaded
170. Shapeshifter Crashes Fireside Party
"Eight...nine. Nine. There are freaking NINE of us in here!"
At that, the pale, bucktoothed girl began to croak a prayer to Wada. Loudly. Another simply started sobbing. Prin couldn't take it anymore. The wailing, the tight quarters of the run down cabin, or the sick, coppery SMELL worst of all. He got up and strode to the door.
"Can't let you do that, man." The kid was his cousin's best friend, trying to sound tough, but his backwoods accent and painfully skinny frame made him laughable, even with the crossbow in his hands. Prin glared at him until he shifted away. The open door let in a rush of fresh air, and he didn't realize just how stuffy the place had become until then. Everyone murmured some relief as the air cycled.
"We shouldn't be here," Theodorus muttered. "These are the goatman's woods, and we shouldn't BE here."
"Shut UP, man!" Prin hoped he didn't sound as scared as he was. The supposedly smart kid in the group, Theo had not stopped going on about how these woods belonged to an ancient nature spirit that was known for drinking blood almost immediately after the strange sounds had started emanating from the treeline. "We are leaving at first f&%%ing light, alright?"
The praying girl whimpered something about Wada helping them last that long. It took everything in Prin to not slap her for that. He realized he needed to take a walk. He muttered something about getting more firewood, and stepped outside. As far out as they were, he didn't have to go very far to find some more wood. Dawn wasn't THAT far away. Just a few more hours and they would be away. He heard a hymn start up at the cabin, and was surprised to hear the girl had a nice falsetto. He reached for another fallen branch-
And stepped into something. Something warm, which made him groan in disgust. Something wet, which made his fear spike. And something that smelled like dry, distant copper...
The branches went everywhere as he ran back into the cabin. He did another headcount from the door, ignoring the questions about his bloody shoe. Ten. There were ten of them now...
DM Briefing: A group of kids have taken to an lightly used and old cabin in a rural area to enjoy each other's company. There are rumors that this patch of woods belongs to an ancient spirit called the goatman, who either drinks blood or bathes in it, but either way reeks of it. Strange sounds come from the treeline which cause people to think that someone is pulling a prank, but not long after that the smell of the goatman starts to appear- and just as suddenly disappear- in different places. Someone doing a head count of the people at the cabin notices they are always off by one or two, but everyone seems to be present when in depth investigations are done. PCs either find themselves in this situation or have heard rumors of this spirit and are seeking it out for its rumored knowledge of the local woods.
Source: https://creepypasta.fandom.com/wiki/Anansi%27s_Goatman_Story
Okay, due to an error on my part(i.e I dragged my feet) I will not be able to finish the American horror story alternates portion of empire today as it has been taken down from MSN. There were 2 or 3 remaining ones that I was working on that I remember well enough to get from the original site(either r/nosleep or creepypasta), but after that I will be returning to "regular" news stories that can be converted into adventure hooks.
He may have been a weirdo, but I am thankful to the dingo for getting this strange thread started. It has kept my writing juices flowing/mind working. Just about anything can be turned into a story hook or start a campaign.
Thanks for reading.
171. Incredibly wealthy man accuded of incredibly petty theft
Ulod sighed as he blocked the man's path a third time. This was getting ridiculous.
"I'm just trying to make a return!" the fellow insisted. "I bought these items here less than a tenday ago!" He waved the bill of sale in the mercenary's face as he atempted to skirt around the much larger man.
Not taking his eyes off the con artist, Ulod upended one of the boxes that supposedly contained exotic tea leaves and spices, revealing it contained a large ball instead. The ball bounced with a steady, fading rhythm that should have indicated to all that the jig was up. Still, the thief would not relent.
"I can reuse a box, can't I?" he groused. Before long, the watch came upon the scene and took the small-time crook into custody. Although not one given to petty behavior, Ulod lingered to hear the man's outlandish claims as he was shuffled off. "Do you really think I would steal SPICES?" he scoffed. "I just bought an ISLAND, by Sarlendru!"
DM Briefing: A man being arrested for truly petty theft- the old bait and switch return scheme- is revealed to be an incredibly wealthy individual who just bought his own ilsand. The police are unsure hwo to proceed with this case, as a rash of obnoxiously wealthy nidividuals buying or bribing their way out of trouble has become a real public problem across the land. PCs can be called in as a part of the investigation, be a part of the watch taking him into custody, or just plain bystanders.
Source: https://www.google.com/amp/s/ktla.com/2019/04/09/man-who-just-bought-8-mill ion-private-island-accused-of-shoplifting-at-kmart/amp/
172. Watch Probing Ransom Kidnapping Make Arrests
"NOW!"
The wagemage babbled a few words while making vague gestures and the conflict was over before it began. The unusually fresh-faced fellow could only squirm as spidersilk appeared out of nowhere to wrap him from head to toe and affix him to the ground. T'Jen allowed himself a tight smile. this was the eighth kidnapper they had tracked down. He waved over the remainder of his men, who took the slug into custody. The mage whispered something that made teh silk crumble into powder so the remaining guards wouldn't get stuck in the stuff. Rough hands brough him to his feet.
"Why, kinsman?" T'Jen was moderately surprised to hear the kidnapper speak in the local tongue as opposed to Common. "Why do you choose the boatmen over your true family?" T'Jen glared at him and frowned: he had neglected to mentione that one of the people he had kidnapped along with the boatman- the slang for foreigner amongst his people- was one of the "true family", just like himself, the officers arresting him, hell, even the mercenary wizard. "I do not count criminals like you amongst my family." His command over his native language was not as tight as it should have been, but he insisted in answering in the Old Way....
DM Briefing: A wide ranging gang of kidnappers has just ransomed off an explorer from a far way land and her native guide back to authorities for about 500000 gold pieces- a princely sum in the kidnapped woman's land, but an unheard of amount of money in the kingdom where the kidnapping took place, at least among the common folk. While most are happy to see the woman and her guide freed, the actual payment of the ransom is technically illegal in her native land. there are questions raised with respect to not just the origin of the payment, but the unusual speed and ease with which the money was found to return them, and the strange ease that the guard of the land where the kidnappings took place have captured eight of the supposed kidnappers. None of the money used in the ransom has been found, however. PCs are either part of the watch(and may be under suspicion for theft of the ransom money), part of a froup transporting the payment or securing it's transfer, one of the many kidnappers or simply have heard the story of a member of their kingdom being kidnapped a half a world away.
Source: https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.cnn.com/cnn/2019/04/09/africa/uganda-kidna p-suspects-us-tourist-intl/index.html
173. Big Game Hunter Swears He Saves Lives, Not Takes Them
The shaft was enormous- more akin to a spear instead of a bolt- and it flew like one too. It landed right in the great beast's eye. There was a gout of blood, and then the lion fell to the earth without a sound. *He is the one* the spirit of the long-dead oliphant intoned. *Avenge me and the ten thousand he has slain* it implored.
Amelia couldn't wait. She dropped her spell of cloaking and drew her scimitar, her mouth a tight line. Just then, the old hunter cocked his head, and gave a greeing in perfect druidic. He did not so much as look up from his kill. Amelia's step faltered in the face of this level of confident dismissal.
"Was it the oiliphant who told you about me? Did he also tell you that he was a rogue cast out from his family? Left that out, did he?" The old man chuffed a laugh.
"I am no killer," he said in a voice as sad as it was tired. "I am here for the same reasons you are. I serve the wood- albeit in a different way than you do. A local people will eat well for many nights, to boot."
Amelia lowered her blade slightly, unsure of how to react....
DM Briefing: An extremely successful big game hunter(ranger) has slain over 5000 animals in his many years. Druids all over see him as a threat if not an outright enemy, but he claims each kill was necessary to preserve the land and the animal's pack/pride/family. PCs are called in to investigate the veracity of his claims.
Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/big-game-hunter-who-has-killed-more-th an-5000-elephants-says-he-is-totally-unrepentant-after-being-named-in-inves tigation-into-plummeting-numbers-–-and-admits-killing-60-lions-50-hippos-an d-40-leopards/ar-BBVLoow
174. Bees Feed On Misery, Not Pollen
The chiurgeon waved away the priest's ministrations. If the situation were different, Huing would have been greateful, but he was a man of science, not faith. This called for skill, not miracles. He held the stem of his tool delicately as he probed under the unfortunate patient's eyelid. He smiled grimly when he discovered the insects, and called to an aide for his jeweler's eye. The procedure took less than an hour, and the woman slumped with relief- she had been awake the whole time. "I could feel them...moving," she whimpered.
"I know," Huing said gently, "but they are gone now, all four of them." Huing gestured to the pristine marble plate which held what looked to be 4 flecks of dirt. The aide ecorted the patient where she could recover. The Therakan druid frowned, but the chiurgeion was unmoved. "Now you can hunt down the pests responsible..."
DM Briefing: Word of a strange type of bee so miniscule it can reside under humanoid eyelids beins to circulate. These "sweat bees" as they are called are found in all sorts of enviornments and can cause pain and runny, watery eyes in addition to itching. Rubbing the eye can cause the bees to sting, which can cause the loss of an eye or eyesight. Chiurgeons can remove the infection, but magic is seen as a surer cure by the wealthy as well as druids who fear the ignorant will burn all hives in an attempt to step the bees- who are normal in all other ways beyond their extremely small size- from spreading. There is also a rumor that the honey they make not only tases sweet but if properly processed can cure blindness or cause the people who ingest it to see the future or the past. PCs are either infected and need a cure, are fighting an outbreak, or happn upon a sect of evil wizards intentionally infecting peopel to harness the honey's supposed magical properties.
Source: https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.cnn.com/cnn/2019/04/10/asia/bees-found-in- taiwanese-womans-eye-scli-intl/index.html
175. Rustic Homes Available In Far-Off Land For One Copper
The ship pulled into a port that was served by a skeleton crew, interestingly. Ruben gathered his few belonging and disembarked. As he set foot on land, he realized his adventuring life was officially behind him, now. He hailed a few grogs- one old enough to be his father, the place was so ill staffed- and made his way to his new home. It was an hour by coach, and the land was so overgrown it still took another ten full minutes on foot after that. Finally, Ruben and his staff found themselves at the cottage. This building had been refurbished even if the road leading to it had not been cared for in some time. Parts of the roof were different colors, and the herb garden was loose in its soil- but it was a manse compared to the inns and tavern floors he was used to in his adventuring days. An entirely too-serious looking man in the garb of a state official holding the deed awaited him inside. Ruben couldn't help but smile as he flipped the humorless man a copper. It didn't cover the taxes, of course, but that could be settled later. The official handed him the deed...
DM Briefing: In a far off, impoverished land, homes are avaialble to outlands for the unheard of price of one copper. The city fathers are attemptign to bring new life and blood to the very sleepy area, and have modernized a handful of buildings- others are in disrepair or are abandoned. While the prices of the homes are astonishing, the back taxes due on the homes ensure all but the lower middle class and below can afford such a home- and even then they may not be able to afford the home due to transportation issues. PCs can be prospective buyers, have been hired by the land to clear out the dilapedated homes of giant rats and vermin and the like before they are sold, or be a part of a thieves' guild looking to swindle the state, the outlanders, or both.
Source: https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.theguardian.com/world/2019/jan/17/italian- town-sambuca-sicily-dozens-homes-for-sale-one-euro
176. Winter and Summer Collide In Single Day
"FOOLS! HERETICS!" The city guard wrestled the older- but powerfully muscled- man to the ground. A few bystanders protested this display but not many- the sunbathers were glad to have the greensquare back to the normal hustle and bustle of the big city. Jasmin felt the rought hands were unnecessary, but coudn't deny the little park was quieter now. She returned to her spellbook, basking in the head...when a snowflake floated in front of her face for a few seconds before alighting on her nose to melt into a chill kiss. She blinked away the unwelcome touch of frost, which made a shiver run through her that had nothing to do with the weather as the now sagacious-seeming madman's last words cut through the din. "WINTER IS COMING!!!"
DM Briefing: Spring seems to have sprung upon the land, and warm temperatures abound, but one town feels winter's chill again as temperatures go from near summer warmth to below freezing within a single day. Several inches of snow fall and as temperatures rise the following day, flooding is a real concern. PCs are either a part of a cleanup/rescue effort, or are searching for the cause of this bizzare weather.
Source: https://www-m.cnn.com/2019/04/11/us/weather-flip-flop-in-colorado-trnd/inde x.html?r=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F
177. King Marries General and Long-Time Consort
The last verse of the prayer was naturally the longest, but Yara was far too disciplined to allow any discomfort to show on her face. They had all remained in the awkward bow reserved for special occasions such as this for over half an hour, including the priest.Just then, silence. Yara realized all eyes were on her. She did not fumble as she lit the incense, although she did it entirely by sight- she could no longer feel her hands. The scent of sandalwood filled the air. King Alemurakhentauresh-Mhararnentum smiled as he reached down from his throne(the king was the only one allowed to sit, naturally) and cupped the general's cheek, daubing her forehead with ochre simultaneously. With that a cheerf went up from the small assembly- the king was now offically married, and his general was now his queen as well. King Alemurakhentauresh-Mhararnentum nodded that they all may stand, and despite the numbing pain in their legs, they all sprang to their feet- they had a coronation to plan, not mention a few arrests...
DM Briefing- In an austere realm perhaps a few years behind the times of its fellows, a king has married his queen in secret. This would not be news save for three mitigating factors- the queen was the realm's general for several years before becoming his consort and lead several bloody campaigns of varying popularity in his name, and the realm practices the ancient and outdated right/tradition of lese majeste, which brutally punishes any and all who criticize the royal family in any way. As this wedding was done in secret, none but the royal guard know the laws regarding the verbal protection of the general has changed- and they are using that ignorance to round up any dissidents before the coronation in 3 days time. PCs are caught up in a brawl as undercover guardsmen move to arrest dissidents at thier faborite pub, are royal guardsmen themselves, or are foreigners about to learn the price of mocking the crown, even unknowingly.
Source: https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.cnn.com/cnn/2019/05/01/asia/thailand-royal s-queen-intl/index.html
178. Avatar of God of Chaos To Visit In A Decade
The telescope was massive- larger and thicker than some collonades- and filled with all manner of mirrors and lenses to make even the most distant item appear close enough to touch. It stood in its housing at the palace observatory, an accusing finger jutting at the heavens. Jeanne stepped away from the eyepiece, blinking away her tears. Whether they were from eye strain or despair was anyone's guess.
"How long do we have?" The vizir's voice was deep and rumbling, like a distant storm
"Ten years, give or take a month." Jeanne did not bother to wipe the tears away, they fell like a slow, insistent rain.
"And you are certain it will miss?" The vizir raised a bushy eyebrow in question.
"By hectacres and hectacres." Jeanne noticed her mouth was a dry as a desert breeze. An amusing contrast. She licked away a tear and repressed a giggle.
"ThenI don't see the problem." The vizir shrugged his massive shoulders.
"It is a message from Apophis! We must prepare for his return!" Jeanne exploded into motion, he knife in her hand appearing out of nowhere and swining wildly at the fat man's face as the tears poured down her own...
DM Briefing: Astronomers the world over take note that an asteroid associated with the setting's god of chaos is heading towards the planet. Starting with the peope who first observe it, there is a significant uptick in chaotic activity over the next decade with it reaching its zenith on the days where it can be seen by the naked eye in the sky. PCs can be called in to do anything from interecede with the god on the setting's behest, to alter the asteroid's course by use of magic, or even to visit to asteroid for some reason, possibly to destroy it- which would cause the god to lose an eye in the process.
Source: https://www.space.com/asteroid-apophis-2029-flyby-planetary-defense.html
179. Promissory Note For Half A Million Gold Pieces Found, Held For Proper Owner
The well to do mother and daughter left the common establishment in a hurry. They left behind all manner of detrius- napkins, crumbs, crusts- but no tip, Aelba noted sadly. She swallowed her curses- Novis would repay her in kind, she was sure. She cleared the table dejectedly. Just then she realized a napkin she had just wadded up was of a different consistancy than the kind the store used; on a whim, she opened it up to investigate. She screamed as she noted that it was a promissory note for...for half a million gold pieces. The pragmitic side of her looked for a blank space and her heart broke to see that it had already been completed. She did not recognize the name on it either- a shame, as there as certainly a reward associated with this much cash. She flagged down the owner of the restaurant, who she knew had a safe. But how would they get the word out, or identify the owner once they did...?
DM Briefing- A popular eatery puts word out that a promissory note for a half a million gold pieces has been found. While initally dismissed as a prank or popularity stunt, it is eventually discovered to be quite true- and people all over are claming that it belongs to them. PCs are either a part of the mostly joking hooplah over it, or are hired by the actual owner of the note to provide security as they go to recover their property, which represents all the money they have in the world after selling their home.
Source: https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/NYC-Pizzeria-Wai ter-Returns-Lost-424K-Check-to-Retired-Social-Worker-509757501.html%3famp=y
180. Extinct Bird Reappears On Recently Returned Island
Cohh swallowed the gorge rising in his throat, but refused to return to his cabin below decks- he had waited a lifetime for this moment. "Land ho!" The cry went up from the crow's nest almost reluctantly, and when it did Cohh could no longer hold back his tears. His life's work had been validated in a single moment. The long lost island of Timbu had returned, just as he knew it would. His research indicated that the island sank and returned in cycles of exactly 20,000 years- and one such cycle had just ended three years ago. His fellows at the university thought him mad. "Well, who's mad now?" he chuckled as he walked down the gangplank. The landscape was positively primeval, with much of the ground and rocks coated in lichen. No life beyond the occasional crab could be found as his scribes set up camp, but that was to be expected...
"Wark?" A single curious eye stared at him just past the beach. Cohh couldn't help but laugh at himself- of course the occasional bird would wing its way here, eager for rest during their long travels. "Wark?" The bird turned its head to glare at Cohh from its other eye before running off into the young forest... Wait. Why was it running? Why hadn't it taken flight? An excited ripple ran through his belly. There should be no bipedal life on this island...
DM Briefing- An island that regularly submerges and rises above the waves once every 20,000 years has recently returned and has been rediscovered. A research team somehow affiliated with the PCs- either a part of their home country or a headed by a direct relation or good friend- notes that a flightless bird, long believed to be extinct, has been discovered on the island, raising questions as to how it got there. PCs are hired to capture one alive for study.
Source: https://www.usnews.com/news/world-report/articles/2019-05-10/extinct-bird-r e-evolved-itself-back-into-existence-on-island-in-seychelles
181. 15 Sets of Twins Graduate From Same School At Same Time
The kids couldn't stop giggling. The artist couldn't stop painting. And the headmaster couldn't stop beaming, his heart clearly full of pride. Soon, the artist intoned that they were finished.
"I want to see!" piped up one.
"Me first!" said another with the same face.
"Not if I get there first!" shouted one half of another pair.
Laughing, the artist gingerly rotated their paiting- their masterpiece, they would later say- to the people who had been the unique subjects. There in paint and ink were the 15 sets of identical twins who had all enrolled at the same school at the same time in the same year. The well-to-do institution was so large that it took some time for the students and staff to realize the once in a lifetime coincidence- if indeed it WAS a coincidence, according to some of the more superstitious among their peers. Indeed, a few students avoided the gaggle of twins, but they were held in contempt by the vast majority of their fellows, and the headmaster had spent no small amount of time refuting the nonsensical rumors that came along with so many twins being in one place- utter nonsense. Clearing his throat to be heard above the din, the headmaster reminded the kids- no, they were young men and women now- that graduation was only a few hours away.
"Let's go!" a pair shouted at once The entire group giggled once more, and the headmaster couldn't help but wonder if they were putting on a show for his amusement. Rolling his eyes, he bade them go change for the ceremony, and they did, in matching pairs...
DM Briefing: A large school of minor note discovered that they have an eye popping fifteen pairs of identical twins enrolled, and set to graduate in the same year to boot. While this is an amazing coincidence, there is nothing unusual about the children themselves, who are ordinary in every way. PCs could be one of the children or perhaps more if the entire party is composed of sets of twins, or perhaps they have been hired to kidnap one or more of these children for nefarious magical purposes.
Source: https://abc7news.com/society/more-than-a-dozen-sets-of-twins-graduating-fro m-pittsburg-high-school/5293318/
182. 1000 Crossbows Seized From Notorious Family's Property
Twelve hours, Sho noted. They had been at this for twelve hours.
The pair of burly guardsmen gingerly carried what Sho truly hoped was the last of the crossbows and placed them on the ground. Judging by their ruddy, sweating faces, they hoped it was the last of them too. The bookish fellow whose name Sho never bothered to learn brought him his final report within moments- exactly one thousand crossbows of all types had been confiscated. They were looking at tens of thousands of gold pieces in weaponry, enough to build a small villa. Not that Sho was particularly surprised- the Yetta family was a wealthy one. And an infamous one, if rumors were to be believed. Still, without a license to sell the weapons, it was enough to make an arrest, no matter what the family's reputation. "Bring him in," Sho grunted. One of his deputies simply hung his head and moved to fetch the home's owner, but the other paused. Sho looked at him expectantly, and the man wiped his brow- exposing a tattoo that someone dedicated to He Who Must Be Paid on his forearm- and the guardsman cleared his throat. "What is the charge, sir?" Sho opened his mouth to berate the man, but he knew that would get him nowhere with someone dedicated to a god of mercenaries- and a tired man at that.
"Sale of weaponry without a license," he said gently. "No way he was hoarding all of this without intent to sell at least a part of it...Unless he was funding a private army." Sho's gaze lingered on the guardsman's tattoo, but he saluted quickly and strode off to bring in the wealthy owner. Or perhaps to warn him...
DM Briefing: A scion of a wealthy and occasionally scandalous family is arrested publicly for selling weapons without a license. Although he proclaims his innocence as a simple weapons collector, he has about 1000 crossbows of all sorts- some of which are illegal repeating or hand crossbows. The case is being handled quietly by authorities despite the public arrest, but there is the question of what to do with the crossbows, the sale of which could make a considerable amount of money. PCs are either prospective buyers of the crossbows, legally or illegally, or are charged with protecting/transporting the money from such a sale.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/markrivettcarnac/2019/05/10/1000-guns-found-in -bel-air-mansion-with-getty-ties/
183. Undead Raccoons Become Growing Menace
The crossbow made its iconic cough-clatter sound and the bolt positively spitted the furry beast. Not that it seemed to notice. Its jade lambent eyes remained fixed upon Amelia, who used the distraction to bring her club down upon the abomination so many times it was impossible to tell it had ever lived once, much less twice. "You're welcome," grumbled the dwaf, who retrieved his bolt from the gory scene.
"This one was different. Did you see the eyes? The way it was fixated on me?" Stonebreath liked the girl- she was quiet in a way most humans were not, something a dwarf could appreciate- but the way she was obsessed about the undead plague that was affecting the area was only all too human. He knew cases of goldeneye that were less severe.
"The only thing I saw was it about to bite you. It's infected." He poured lamp oil upon the remains and struck a tindertwig. It burned almost merrily after that.
"But undeath isn't a disease," she persisted. "An affliction, maybe, but once forced upon something. Undead creatures do not act like this." She spat the last word as if it were a curse.
"We both checked," the dwarf said with a sigh. "There are no necromancers in this area," It was true, to the best of their reckoning. There were too few people in the area, much less sorcerers. "It has to be something else..."
DM Briefing: Undead raccoons of all things are becoming a more common sight in forests in a sparsely populated section of the campaign setting. Unlike most undead, these creatures seem to lack malodorousness or decay about them, and are possessed of glowing green eyes and no small curiosity about those they encounter- being so bold as to approach them directly. PCs are called in to investigate.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/animalia/wp/2018/04/04/he-thought-somet hing-was-wrong-with-the-raccoon-then-it-stood-on-its-hind-legs/?noredirect= on
184. World Leaders Concerned About Magical Weapon Testing Site From Past Age
The Grand Poobah collected his papers, adjusted his ceremonial helm, and addressed a crowd young enough to be composed of his grandchildren- collected from the four corners of the world, but most hailing from near the afflicted area.
"It was over seventy-five years ago that the first spells were cast," he began. "The war was going on and on and on and the Usanians needed and edge- and this was it. But noone knew what the long term effects would be." At that, a number of lips in the crowd pursed into hard lines: not unexpected considering the majority of people here had been negatively affected by the latent magical energies of those tests. Some went so far as to openly display their deformities- twisted legs, horns, even a tentacle or two. "We are all working to find a solution, so that life may one day return to the islands. Sealing this coffin will be my life's work," he declared...
DM Briefing: In a part of the world that was abandoned by force after magical tests were performed that left a rent in time and space, leaking all manner of foul magical energies into the world, a displaced people native to the area have started to show signs of magically-based deformities(default to tiefling features with a bent towards aberrations) and are seeking legal action against the country that ran those tests. They have turned to a world spanning political organization that is largely impotent in the face of the far more powerful individual country that ran the test, but is nonetheless putting political pressure upon said country to do something about the issue. PCs are called in by one organization or another to see about sealing the rift for all time, but depending on which organization is backing them they may have greater or lesser resources with which to study. Some of the PCs may be one of these affected peoples, and if the entire party is composed of them, they may be adventuring with an eye towards calling attention to the plight of their kinsmen.
Source: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/un-chief-concerned-nuclear-coffin-leak ing-in-pacific/ar-AABrcbn