"Hot Sheets" June 2018
"Hot Sheets" June 2018
A collection of notes, transcriptions, intelligence reports, newspaper clippings, and other scraps of information pinned to the walls of the Dragon's Lair briefing room.
Strangereal
'Dragon Squadron' begins push against Leasathian incursion
FORESTER BAY, OSEA -- "The sleeping dragon has woken," an Osean Air Force spokesman said, referring to the surge in activity at the Dragon's Lair Air Base in Starlight Cove. The nature of these operations is classified, he said, but the mercenary pilots stationed there are actively engaging Leasathian forces throughout Southern Osea. Fighters have departed at all times of the day to embark, and Starlight Cove residents say they see it as a mixed bag; the roaring activity both assuages their worries and reminds them that Leasathian forces have encroached into the area.
Leasathian military pursues, destroys runaway truck in blazing fashion
NORTH CARRANZA -- The Leasathian military didn't comment on operations that blocked off Highway 286 and ended in a powerful missile strike on Carranzan soil. A Leasathian cargo truck sped northbound on the Highway in the middle of the night until dawn, when witnensses say multiple jet fighters were shot down engaging the truck. Residents in the area said Leasathian tanks blocked off a checkpoint along the highway to stop the speeding truck, but a photo taken by a resident shows a Leasathian jet fighter destroying the truck before it reached the checkpoint. Shortly after, witnesses said, an unrecognizable missile struck the area, sending out what they described as "a non-destructive shockwave" through the area. Witnesses said that ended the engagement, and refused to get any closer. Leasathian military police wouldn't identify the driver, or describe what led up to the engagement.
Osean treasury minister announces 'lucrative deal' with private-sector investors, merchants
OURED, OSEA -- A new deal could provide more access to foreign markets, the Treasury Department reports, via the "East India Trading Company." The East India Company is a newcomer to Osean exchanges, but promises to be a powerhouse with an apparently vast network of shipping and maritime security forces. Properly licensed with the government's National Trade Registry, an EITC spokesman said the mercantile company is ready to render its services "to Osea and her allies in this time of great need," seemingly referring to the conflict with Leasath. The EITC refuses to publish its shipping manifests, and government contract law closes those records by default. It's worth noting most publicly traded companies or those with government contracts will publish trade documents unless preserved for national security concerns.
A transcription of a syndicated talk-radio segment in Southern Osea
"So I saw a guy climbing this giant tower inside Dragon's Lair, right? 'Course, when we ask about it, the government just says 'it's clasified,' and basically 'mind your own damn business.'"
*laughter*
"What'd you see? Just a guy on a tower? What was he doin', flying a kite? Weather experiment?"
"That's probably the official story if they even got one, but man, nah, he did somethin' up there that sent out this signal or somethin'. I was in here with a couple other guys workin' on our show for the next day, and I swear it made our <expletive deleted> go haywire. Damn near fried all the circuits."
"EMP [electromagnetic pulse]? They doin' experiments over there?"
"Maybe. I don't know. That's the problem. It didn't break anything, and obviously it leveled out since then, but that first initial surge, man... nearly took us off the air. Whatever those pay-for-play soldiers over there are doing, it's gonna be big."
"Big in a good way or a bad way?"
"We'll see, won't we?"
Note: This broadcast aired the day after the Lutece twins activated the Spectrum Analyzer, their leyline detecting suite. -KP
Circuit races more competitive after sudden disappearance of pack leader
STARLIGHT COVE, OSEA -- Advertisers and fans alike showed concern after star driver Axel Radley stopped registering for events. There's been no explanation for his absence, and a thorough scouring of police and federal records hasn't yielded any unfortunate events mentioning Radley. Some fans suspect he simply "drove off into the sunset" to enjoy his success. Radley proved to be a dominant opponent to other drivers, who said they looked up to his skill and showmanship on the track. They said he's welcome to return at any time, but until then they'll keep jockeying for the number one spot at the finish line, rather than who would end up the distant second to Radley's car.
Featured Photo: Seaside Shutters -- Two lovers at night
STARLIGHT COVE, OSEA -- This month's featured picture from staff photographers shows an unidentified man and a woman on the coast at the Dragon's Lair Air Base. Perhaps these mercenaries fight for more than just money.
The photograph depicts Edward Hunter and Shanoa sitting on the beach outside the airbase together, warmly embraced and both looking out over the water. The picture is obviously taken from a great distance, but shows in good resolution.
Dance studio to begin incorporating more ballet in curriculum
STARLIGHT COVE, OSEA -- The Everstar Dance Studio on Latios Avenue will begin offering more extensive ballet classes, following a surge in interest from its clients. Students there cite a woman's performance in Starlight Cove as inspiration for interest in the foreign dance stylings, saying the expression and deliberate movements exhibited in the performance speak to their inner artists. Classes will begin soon, and registration is already open.
Osean military: Towering construct at Dragon's Lair Air Base 'a national defense project'
STARLIGHT COVE, OSEA -- Multiple witnesses, photographers, and citizen journalists report seeing an eight-legged, stories-tall vehicle walking off the Dragon's Lair Air Base multiple times over the past two months. The vehicle, described by some as a 'spider tank,' does not appear to match current Osean design trends nor technological stylings, but Osean forces did not engage it. It brims with what appears to be powerful weaponry, analysts said, and appears to be all-terrain capable after photographs show it walking across hills in the Forester Bay region. Military analysts theorize it could be a construct of the mercenary "Dragon Squadron," but couldn't speculate on its exact operation or intention aside from engaging Leasathian forces. Reports from Southern Osea indicate the Leasathian military is operating unusual bipedal armored units in the area, using them to advance Leasathian forces further into Osean territory.
Loc Lac
Band of hunters ward off Jhen Mohran ... again!
LOC LAC -- A relatively new band of hunters successfully thwarted off a giant horned sand whale this month, keeping it away from Loc Lac. We're eternally grateful for their intervention, as this Jhen Mohran's approach would have surely decimated the town. Every couple months, a sand whale will travel outside its habitat, lured by the hustle-and-bustle of this desert oasis, and could potentially wreak havoc on the citizenry there. Thank you, hunters!
New Shop Available: East India Trading Company
LOC LAC -- Check out the new shop in the Grand Market! The East India Trading Company visits from across the ocean, and is offering its services to transport and trade goods and materials safely from place to place. It's even starting to buy up sand ships, allowing it to pass over the desert and expand your business's reach. Join the East India Trading Company today!
New Shop Available: Maximilian's Hammer & Glamour!
LOC LAC -- Check out the new shop in the Grand Market! Maxmilian's Hammer & Glamour joins the ranks of guild providers, offering high-quality weapons, armor, and accessories. If you want it, he can make it! Its proprietor, the namesake Max, is holding a grand opening ceremony this coming month. Don't miss it!
P.S.: Looks like the shopkeeper isn't hesitating to hold his own grand opening ceremony!
Attached is a grainy, black-and-white photograph of Max and Maja embracing intimately underneath the shop's banner, Maja with one leg bent back at the knee and Max resting his head against her shoulder with a wide smile.
Hunters celebrate new home in the residential district
LOC LAC -- Socialites, beware! A band of new hunters have christened a home in the residential district with a party that shouldn't have been missed. Among them, several hunters of new repute who were involved in protecting the city from a recent Jhen Mohran attack, along with several beautiful women and food stacked to the ceiling. If you're not getting invitations to Rriss's parties, you're missing out!
Attached is a photograph of several identifiable Dimensional Warriors at Rriss's new home in Loc Lac. It's taken from a higher angle looking down into the yard where the party was held. Everyone seems to be having a good time.
Ivalice
A transcription from a conversation in Balfonheim Port
"Oi, wah'gwaan?"
"These here sailors say they're ready to take on the last of the pirates."
"Fools, they are, sailing into a pirate's port and saying such things."
"They're not just pirate hunters... they're merchants, too. Call 'emselves the East India Trading Company, they do. Never heard of an East India, but these men don't play around... and they're willing to trade for top gil, even for some of the most basic things."
"Like what?"
"Magicite. They want it in droves. Doesn't matter what kind, even the Wind Stones you can get from the bazaar for ten gil apiece. They'll pay through the nose for it."
"You don't say..."
"Can't say what they're doin' with it. It's like goin' to the desert and paying for rocks."
Transcription of a town crier in Rabanastre
"Have you tested your mettle in Lowtown yet?! You'll fight the best of the best, starting there. That's where every tournament fighter starts, even the grand champions Glenn of Guardia and Ghenna Folcwin! Whether steel, fist, gun, or sorcery, you, too, can join in these thrilling matches! Nothing brings out the innermost parts of your soul like a good fight! We pay top gil for it! Impress your friends! Impress the ladies! Ladies, throw down with the men who look down on you! Grudge fights welcome! Honor duels welcome!"
Rygar (600 AD)
A bill posted on multiple bulletin boards throughout Termina, in the El Nido Triangle.
WANTED: STRATO FARAVIS
An artistic depiction of Strato Faravis is below, including chisled, hard features, long ponytailed hair, and a menacing, terror-inducing snarl on his features. It's obviously drawn to incite animosity towards him
FOR CRIMES AGAINST THE PEOPLE, including the commission of PIRACY, associating with KNOWN PIRATES, and TRADE INTERDICTION.
If you see him or know where he can be found, contact the EAST INDIA TRADING COMPANY immediately, and you will be paid a sum of 50,000 CROWNS.
He is considered ARMED AND DANGEROUS. Do not approach him on your own!
A transcription of a conversation in Termina, in the El Nido Triangle
"Hey, have you heard about that beautiful woman who plays the violin on the street sometimes?"
"Yes, actually. I've heard her myself a couple of times while enjoying a meal nearby. I've left coins for her as thanks, but I couldn't begin to tell you her name."
"A dark maiden, she is, a right fair one at that. I wager she's been playing for years. I wonder what brought her to us. Do you think she could be from the kingdom across the sea?"
"It's the only place I can think she'd come from. Never seen her before in my life."
"You think she's single?"
An artist's note left beside a hand-sketched portrait
"Thank you for visiting Termina. We're so happy you've decided to join us."
The sketch portrays a group of easily-identifiable Dimensional Warriors gathered around a large bonfire on the Termina beach, talking amongst themselves in small circles, eating and laughing together, and gazing out over the water. It's very good.
Transcription from a town crier in Termina
"If you plan on hunting, especially at night, go see the demi-human on the seafront! A tall, fair, lovely woman with pointed ears offers powerful sorcery to defeat your enemies and protect you from their fell magicks! She barely charges, and says she's a friend to us against the demons! Call her Sadame, and say we sent you!"
An artist's note next to an oil painting
"Two lovers on the beach; Termina, El Nido Triangle"
The oil painting, done in apparent talented haste, portrays a moon high over the sea at Termina's shorefront, with two people sitting next to each other on the sand, leaned against one another. One has dim yellow hair and has large gauntlet-shaped devices stuck in the sand next to her, the other wears a robe resembling a monk's gi.
Note: Ghenna Folcwin and Yang Xiao Long? -KP
Tottaus
Transcription from a town crier in Radiata City
"Hearye, hearye! Do not miss your opportunity to join in this year's Royal Melee! Only 30 fighters qualify, but all are welcome to try! Test your might against Radiata City's finest, on a level playing field, where your might will set you right on the path to be enshrined as champion! All comers welcome, whether squire, knight, scribe, sorceror, or farmer! The Royal Melee culminates the region's biggest celebrations! Join your friends, family, and neighbors in honoring our brave and bold fighters! Cheer on your champion! Join the Royal Melee today!"
A message intercepted between soldiers in the Radiata City Guard
"Blood orcs attacked a messenger's caravan. No one is safe anymore. It's only thanks to the intervention of a band of gladiators that Sir Ridley Silverlake survived. The elves are not happy. Stay safe, friend."
A bulletin posted on a shopkeeper's front door in Radiata City
"CLOSED PERMANENTLY.
I apologize to my remaining customers, but we are no longer able to sustain our business.
Rogue merchants, part of a larger faction called the East India Trading Company, have put me out of work, unable to buy or sell at the prices I expected.
My family and I will be leaving Radiata City for some time. If we return, perhaps we will rejoin the trading community."
Strangereal
'Dragon Squadron' begins push against Leasathian incursion
FORESTER BAY, OSEA -- "The sleeping dragon has woken," an Osean Air Force spokesman said, referring to the surge in activity at the Dragon's Lair Air Base in Starlight Cove. The nature of these operations is classified, he said, but the mercenary pilots stationed there are actively engaging Leasathian forces throughout Southern Osea. Fighters have departed at all times of the day to embark, and Starlight Cove residents say they see it as a mixed bag; the roaring activity both assuages their worries and reminds them that Leasathian forces have encroached into the area.
Leasathian military pursues, destroys runaway truck in blazing fashion
NORTH CARRANZA -- The Leasathian military didn't comment on operations that blocked off Highway 286 and ended in a powerful missile strike on Carranzan soil. A Leasathian cargo truck sped northbound on the Highway in the middle of the night until dawn, when witnensses say multiple jet fighters were shot down engaging the truck. Residents in the area said Leasathian tanks blocked off a checkpoint along the highway to stop the speeding truck, but a photo taken by a resident shows a Leasathian jet fighter destroying the truck before it reached the checkpoint. Shortly after, witnesses said, an unrecognizable missile struck the area, sending out what they described as "a non-destructive shockwave" through the area. Witnesses said that ended the engagement, and refused to get any closer. Leasathian military police wouldn't identify the driver, or describe what led up to the engagement.
Osean treasury minister announces 'lucrative deal' with private-sector investors, merchants
OURED, OSEA -- A new deal could provide more access to foreign markets, the Treasury Department reports, via the "East India Trading Company." The East India Company is a newcomer to Osean exchanges, but promises to be a powerhouse with an apparently vast network of shipping and maritime security forces. Properly licensed with the government's National Trade Registry, an EITC spokesman said the mercantile company is ready to render its services "to Osea and her allies in this time of great need," seemingly referring to the conflict with Leasath. The EITC refuses to publish its shipping manifests, and government contract law closes those records by default. It's worth noting most publicly traded companies or those with government contracts will publish trade documents unless preserved for national security concerns.
A transcription of a syndicated talk-radio segment in Southern Osea
"So I saw a guy climbing this giant tower inside Dragon's Lair, right? 'Course, when we ask about it, the government just says 'it's clasified,' and basically 'mind your own damn business.'"
*laughter*
"What'd you see? Just a guy on a tower? What was he doin', flying a kite? Weather experiment?"
"That's probably the official story if they even got one, but man, nah, he did somethin' up there that sent out this signal or somethin'. I was in here with a couple other guys workin' on our show for the next day, and I swear it made our <expletive deleted> go haywire. Damn near fried all the circuits."
"EMP [electromagnetic pulse]? They doin' experiments over there?"
"Maybe. I don't know. That's the problem. It didn't break anything, and obviously it leveled out since then, but that first initial surge, man... nearly took us off the air. Whatever those pay-for-play soldiers over there are doing, it's gonna be big."
"Big in a good way or a bad way?"
"We'll see, won't we?"
Note: This broadcast aired the day after the Lutece twins activated the Spectrum Analyzer, their leyline detecting suite. -KP
Circuit races more competitive after sudden disappearance of pack leader
STARLIGHT COVE, OSEA -- Advertisers and fans alike showed concern after star driver Axel Radley stopped registering for events. There's been no explanation for his absence, and a thorough scouring of police and federal records hasn't yielded any unfortunate events mentioning Radley. Some fans suspect he simply "drove off into the sunset" to enjoy his success. Radley proved to be a dominant opponent to other drivers, who said they looked up to his skill and showmanship on the track. They said he's welcome to return at any time, but until then they'll keep jockeying for the number one spot at the finish line, rather than who would end up the distant second to Radley's car.
Featured Photo: Seaside Shutters -- Two lovers at night
STARLIGHT COVE, OSEA -- This month's featured picture from staff photographers shows an unidentified man and a woman on the coast at the Dragon's Lair Air Base. Perhaps these mercenaries fight for more than just money.
The photograph depicts Edward Hunter and Shanoa sitting on the beach outside the airbase together, warmly embraced and both looking out over the water. The picture is obviously taken from a great distance, but shows in good resolution.
Dance studio to begin incorporating more ballet in curriculum
STARLIGHT COVE, OSEA -- The Everstar Dance Studio on Latios Avenue will begin offering more extensive ballet classes, following a surge in interest from its clients. Students there cite a woman's performance in Starlight Cove as inspiration for interest in the foreign dance stylings, saying the expression and deliberate movements exhibited in the performance speak to their inner artists. Classes will begin soon, and registration is already open.
Osean military: Towering construct at Dragon's Lair Air Base 'a national defense project'
STARLIGHT COVE, OSEA -- Multiple witnesses, photographers, and citizen journalists report seeing an eight-legged, stories-tall vehicle walking off the Dragon's Lair Air Base multiple times over the past two months. The vehicle, described by some as a 'spider tank,' does not appear to match current Osean design trends nor technological stylings, but Osean forces did not engage it. It brims with what appears to be powerful weaponry, analysts said, and appears to be all-terrain capable after photographs show it walking across hills in the Forester Bay region. Military analysts theorize it could be a construct of the mercenary "Dragon Squadron," but couldn't speculate on its exact operation or intention aside from engaging Leasathian forces. Reports from Southern Osea indicate the Leasathian military is operating unusual bipedal armored units in the area, using them to advance Leasathian forces further into Osean territory.
Loc Lac
Band of hunters ward off Jhen Mohran ... again!
LOC LAC -- A relatively new band of hunters successfully thwarted off a giant horned sand whale this month, keeping it away from Loc Lac. We're eternally grateful for their intervention, as this Jhen Mohran's approach would have surely decimated the town. Every couple months, a sand whale will travel outside its habitat, lured by the hustle-and-bustle of this desert oasis, and could potentially wreak havoc on the citizenry there. Thank you, hunters!
New Shop Available: East India Trading Company
LOC LAC -- Check out the new shop in the Grand Market! The East India Trading Company visits from across the ocean, and is offering its services to transport and trade goods and materials safely from place to place. It's even starting to buy up sand ships, allowing it to pass over the desert and expand your business's reach. Join the East India Trading Company today!
New Shop Available: Maximilian's Hammer & Glamour!
LOC LAC -- Check out the new shop in the Grand Market! Maxmilian's Hammer & Glamour joins the ranks of guild providers, offering high-quality weapons, armor, and accessories. If you want it, he can make it! Its proprietor, the namesake Max, is holding a grand opening ceremony this coming month. Don't miss it!
P.S.: Looks like the shopkeeper isn't hesitating to hold his own grand opening ceremony!
Attached is a grainy, black-and-white photograph of Max and Maja embracing intimately underneath the shop's banner, Maja with one leg bent back at the knee and Max resting his head against her shoulder with a wide smile.
Hunters celebrate new home in the residential district
LOC LAC -- Socialites, beware! A band of new hunters have christened a home in the residential district with a party that shouldn't have been missed. Among them, several hunters of new repute who were involved in protecting the city from a recent Jhen Mohran attack, along with several beautiful women and food stacked to the ceiling. If you're not getting invitations to Rriss's parties, you're missing out!
Attached is a photograph of several identifiable Dimensional Warriors at Rriss's new home in Loc Lac. It's taken from a higher angle looking down into the yard where the party was held. Everyone seems to be having a good time.
Ivalice
A transcription from a conversation in Balfonheim Port
"Oi, wah'gwaan?"
"These here sailors say they're ready to take on the last of the pirates."
"Fools, they are, sailing into a pirate's port and saying such things."
"They're not just pirate hunters... they're merchants, too. Call 'emselves the East India Trading Company, they do. Never heard of an East India, but these men don't play around... and they're willing to trade for top gil, even for some of the most basic things."
"Like what?"
"Magicite. They want it in droves. Doesn't matter what kind, even the Wind Stones you can get from the bazaar for ten gil apiece. They'll pay through the nose for it."
"You don't say..."
"Can't say what they're doin' with it. It's like goin' to the desert and paying for rocks."
Transcription of a town crier in Rabanastre
"Have you tested your mettle in Lowtown yet?! You'll fight the best of the best, starting there. That's where every tournament fighter starts, even the grand champions Glenn of Guardia and Ghenna Folcwin! Whether steel, fist, gun, or sorcery, you, too, can join in these thrilling matches! Nothing brings out the innermost parts of your soul like a good fight! We pay top gil for it! Impress your friends! Impress the ladies! Ladies, throw down with the men who look down on you! Grudge fights welcome! Honor duels welcome!"
Rygar (600 AD)
A bill posted on multiple bulletin boards throughout Termina, in the El Nido Triangle.
WANTED: STRATO FARAVIS
An artistic depiction of Strato Faravis is below, including chisled, hard features, long ponytailed hair, and a menacing, terror-inducing snarl on his features. It's obviously drawn to incite animosity towards him
FOR CRIMES AGAINST THE PEOPLE, including the commission of PIRACY, associating with KNOWN PIRATES, and TRADE INTERDICTION.
If you see him or know where he can be found, contact the EAST INDIA TRADING COMPANY immediately, and you will be paid a sum of 50,000 CROWNS.
He is considered ARMED AND DANGEROUS. Do not approach him on your own!
A transcription of a conversation in Termina, in the El Nido Triangle
"Hey, have you heard about that beautiful woman who plays the violin on the street sometimes?"
"Yes, actually. I've heard her myself a couple of times while enjoying a meal nearby. I've left coins for her as thanks, but I couldn't begin to tell you her name."
"A dark maiden, she is, a right fair one at that. I wager she's been playing for years. I wonder what brought her to us. Do you think she could be from the kingdom across the sea?"
"It's the only place I can think she'd come from. Never seen her before in my life."
"You think she's single?"
An artist's note left beside a hand-sketched portrait
"Thank you for visiting Termina. We're so happy you've decided to join us."
The sketch portrays a group of easily-identifiable Dimensional Warriors gathered around a large bonfire on the Termina beach, talking amongst themselves in small circles, eating and laughing together, and gazing out over the water. It's very good.
Transcription from a town crier in Termina
"If you plan on hunting, especially at night, go see the demi-human on the seafront! A tall, fair, lovely woman with pointed ears offers powerful sorcery to defeat your enemies and protect you from their fell magicks! She barely charges, and says she's a friend to us against the demons! Call her Sadame, and say we sent you!"
An artist's note next to an oil painting
"Two lovers on the beach; Termina, El Nido Triangle"
The oil painting, done in apparent talented haste, portrays a moon high over the sea at Termina's shorefront, with two people sitting next to each other on the sand, leaned against one another. One has dim yellow hair and has large gauntlet-shaped devices stuck in the sand next to her, the other wears a robe resembling a monk's gi.
Note: Ghenna Folcwin and Yang Xiao Long? -KP
Tottaus
Transcription from a town crier in Radiata City
"Hearye, hearye! Do not miss your opportunity to join in this year's Royal Melee! Only 30 fighters qualify, but all are welcome to try! Test your might against Radiata City's finest, on a level playing field, where your might will set you right on the path to be enshrined as champion! All comers welcome, whether squire, knight, scribe, sorceror, or farmer! The Royal Melee culminates the region's biggest celebrations! Join your friends, family, and neighbors in honoring our brave and bold fighters! Cheer on your champion! Join the Royal Melee today!"
A message intercepted between soldiers in the Radiata City Guard
"Blood orcs attacked a messenger's caravan. No one is safe anymore. It's only thanks to the intervention of a band of gladiators that Sir Ridley Silverlake survived. The elves are not happy. Stay safe, friend."
A bulletin posted on a shopkeeper's front door in Radiata City
"CLOSED PERMANENTLY.
I apologize to my remaining customers, but we are no longer able to sustain our business.
Rogue merchants, part of a larger faction called the East India Trading Company, have put me out of work, unable to buy or sell at the prices I expected.
My family and I will be leaving Radiata City for some time. If we return, perhaps we will rejoin the trading community."
