Interesting World News.

[Rigley]

The Stormwind Daily Post

Westfall on Hard Times
The farmers and people of Westfall seem to be facing even more threats, despite the downfall of the Defias kingpin, Edwin VanCleef. Reports state that many splinter groups of the defunct 'Defias Brotherhood' have taken to the fields and forests, and nowhere is this worse than the plains of Westfall. While the returning troops from Northrend have provided the People's Militia some new blades for their cause, farmers report that the improvements to the guard force are 'too little, too late'. Compounding the bandit threat there is an influx of attacks from the local gnolls of the region, and murlocs are a threat for any workers on the coast. Some guardsmen of the People's Militia have even reported on some undead from Duskwood spotted roaming the fields from across the bridge. Gryan Stoutmantle, leader of the military forces of Westfall, was not available to comment.

Duskwood Smuggling Ring Dispersed
Ello Ebonlocke of Duskwood and his Night Watch Guard have reported the downfall of a notorious smuggling ring within the boundaries of their city recently. The unnamed smuggling ring has plagued the regions of Westfall and Redridge over recent months, and has reportedly been using Duskwood for a hideaway between its illegal operations. While authorities have yet to disclose the names of any of the collaborators behind this nefarious organization, the ring has apparently been the confirmed carriers of black market goods to the remnant Defias in Westfall, and may even be aiding the hostilities from the Blackrock Orcs in Redridge. Unsettling news, as to all accounts the ring is comprised soley of human conspirators.

Perhaps even more disconcerting are the rumors that there was some involvement of the Stormwind House of Nobles concerning this smuggling ring. There has been no comment yet from any of the accused noble houses concerning these allegations.

The War Goes On
On the front lines, officers are saying that tensions between the Horde and Alliance may be due to escalate. Concerns are apparently rising from within the Horde as to how they will be maintaining resources, especially lumber, and Darnassian officials have stated that incursions into the Ashenvale wood are growing more and more numerous by Horde lumber groups!

The recent increase in lumberyard work has brought everyone onto their toes. Darnassian troops are anticipating increased aggression on the front, and the Stormwind navy has stated that it is standing by to assist, should the need arise. Whether or not we're going to see an outbreak or not remains to be seen, but commanders are anticipating trouble in the months to come.

Survey Says: Financial Woes Only Increasing
Meanwhile in domestic news, surveys of the trends of taxes across the kingdom seem to point to harsh times ahead, especially as the Alliance prepares for the possibility of a renewed conflict with the Horde. Just this Friday a tax increase was issued, and with it prices rose all around the city to accomodate the new legislation. There has been noted outcry from Baron Andreas of the Stormwind House of Nobles due to its particular fixation upon businesses.

"It's an outrage. This is Stormwind's idea of rewarding those who are keeping it afloat in these hard times? Well let them levvy their taxes. Just so long as they take the blame when our prices rise to accomodate the loss of revenue."

An official had this to say in response to Andreas' comment,

"To say that we are punishing the successful is a harsh light to view it in. Noblemen like the honorable baron are not in the least inconvenienced by the adjustment, and have no need to punish their customers for their call to pay their rightful share."

More to come on this matter as it develops. Until then, families will do well to start saving up for the price hikes coming up.

News From the North: Argent Victory!
On a much more uplifting note, the Argent Crusade has reported sweeping victories across the Western Plaguelands after recovering from its most recent defensive at the city of Hearthglen. On Thursday the 12th the former cultist leader and commander of the renewed Scourge forces of the Western Plaguelands was given a public execution upon the gallows. Argent forces report that with the downfall of the renewed cult there have been fewer and fewer coordinated attacks upon the city, or upon Argents traversing the Plaguelands in general. Commanding officer Entari says that he is 'cautiously optimistic' concerning the safety and growth of the city now that their threat from the Scourge has been lifted.

A festival is to be arranged in celebration of the downfall of the cult, to be planned by the Hearthglen Town Council shortly. We have heard that there will be portal services available for those wishing to attend from Stormwind.

[Rigley]

The Stormwind Daily Post

Rally For 'Solidarity'

7:00, Friday the 27th-- As usual, there was revelry and merriment in the Dwarven District of Stormwind. However this time it wasn't coming from the local bar, but the meeting hall at the northern edge of the district. And instead of the cheers and shouts of dwarves, it came from humans, civilians from all across the realm of Stormwind's lands.

At first the attitude in the gathering was sheer merriment. The gathering had been advertised as free food and drink for the poor, as well as a comfortable shelter for the night. What was at first an innocous giving of alms though turned into a heated political atmosphere in mere moments as the first speaker of the night took the stage. One Harold Street, retired officer of the Stormwind Military and veteran of the second, third, Outland and Northrend wars took the podium, demanding the attention of the crowd with his booming voice. The crowd was entranced as heavy criticisms of Stormwind's government and military elite were levied by the veteran.

"The atmosphere was quickly becoming a bit volatile." recalled a Stormwind patrol officer, Lieutenant Abigail Markay. "It didn't help at all when a man spoke out against their agenda. I was afraid he was going to be lynched by the mob, but thankfully the situation diffused."

While reception to Street's tale was warm, the crowd was sent into an uproar of applause after the second speaker had taken the stage. Ringleader Harvey 'Finevoice' took the podium and the ears of the audience, and in mere moments had recruits clamoring from their ranks to join his cause-- an organization named 'Solidarity', which attests to 'providing action where Stormwind gives none'. While the mission statement of fair treatment and safety for all is highly touted throughout the group, so far any exact explanation as to their plans has yet to be revealed. Ringleader Harvey merely gave us these words as to his future plans;

"We've got plans. Keep an ear open-- when the cry for justice comes, you're all gonna hear it."

More to come as this story develops.

[Rigley]

The Stormwind Daily Post

Changing Times?

It's a scoop for the news today! In Westfall this evening a series of battles has broken out between the remnant Defias brotherhood and the vigilante group known as Solidarity.

"It took a while, but it was worth it." Solidarity figurehead Harvey 'Finevoice' told us in a brief interview, "And we've got a lot more to do still. But change is a gradual progress. You've gotta crawl before you walk, and walk before you run. Right here, what we've done today, is a good thing. And we're gonna keep doing good things."

Said 'good thing' was a statement in reference to their recent conquest of the day-- a liberation of the Furlbrow Farmstead in northern Westfall. Formerly held by the Defias Brotherhood for a number of years, it was liberated today after hours of conflict with the insurgents remaining upon the farm. Farmer Furlbrow was not available for comment regarding the restored farmstead, but his wife commented that he was 'very touched' by the retaking of the land. It's certainly a sight Westfall has not seen in some time-- Harvest golems in full functioning condition, a farm plot devoid of bandits or coyotes. When asked for comment, Sentinel Hill commander Gryan Stoutmantle had this to say;

"I admire their enthusiasm. I admire what they've done here today. But talk like theirs can turn dangerous in seconds. Call it simply an old veteran being paranoid, but I won't be throwing my support behind this movement just yet."

Indeed, this sentiment has been the response from many of the Stormwind officials. Captain Edward Hayth of the Westbrook Garrison in particular had cross words to say about the party;

"They lack discipline, and they lack respect. Their men are traitors for abandoning their posts at the garrison, and if it were my decision I would see them branded and tried as such. What's going on here is the makings of a rebellion, not a reform. When Stormwind's guardsmen are supplemented on farmsteads and pathways by those under another banner we are all in danger for conflict. Mark my words."

Ominous predictions indeed, but thus far the organization has shown itself to be cooperative with Stormwind officials, having handed off captured Defias agents to the authorities shortly after their reclaiming of the pumpkin patch.

Dangerous? Hopeful? Time will tell. More information on this story as it develops.

[Rigley]

The Stormwind Daily Post

MOONBROOK LIBERATED

We've stalled on this story for some time, since we've been hard at work attempting to validate these claims; however, all of our sources report the same thing.

In the southwestern region of Westfall Alliance caravans and gryphons are streaming in and out. A banner of Stormwind hangs. Civilians are returning to homes long lost. Moonbrook, a city seized during the formation of the Defias brotherhood and its initial spread across Stormwind's realms, has been liberated for the Alliance!

Early last week the city was reclaimed by none other than the ever-rising organization of Solidarity, and has since become a massive rallying point within Westfall for the people long displaced by the Defias brotherhood.

“It's amazing,” stated Howell Caraway, a returning former citizen of the town, “To be moving back into the family plot after so long-- we never expected to see our land again once the Defias took root in the city.”

That seems to be the general response from the populace; a sense of renewed hope. The exuberance only spreads so far, though. A local marshal (name withheld) surveying the scene commented as follows;

“We've been combating the Defias for years. They are weaker now, perhaps, but something is wrong here. The Defias are like vermin. They cannot be weeded out in one battle, or two. I say something foul is afoot in Westfall. I say things are not all quite as they seem to be.”

Solidarity Marshal Andrew Arkenstone, former captain within the Stormwind Army, had this to say in response;

“If the kind Marshal means to insinuate some connection to the very 'brotherhood' we are locked in combat with, then let it be said that the only negotiations Solidarity will have with the brigands is at the point of a sword. We do not bargain with the oppressors of the people. We do not pay informants nor strike deals with the likes of the ilk who have caused the fair people of Westfall so much pain and suffering throughout the years. I swear this upon my honor as a paladin of the Alliance.”

Indeed, allegations towards Solidarity's unprecedented success in Westfall have been met with tremendous backlash from the public. Officials have received scathing letters of condemnation and threats from the populace in return for such accusations, yet many have yet to be completely silenced by the display.

“This shows the true colors of this movement.” stated House of Nobles member Bernard Covington. “Ruffians. Rioters and brawlers, seeking to push for a cause that can't sustain itself. So they retake a town-- what comes afterwords? They say they move to Duskwood next. They expect Moonbrook to keep itself afloat? Why, it will be retaken by the Defias in a week. All they do is raise hopes and peak anger throughout the people. The result will be quite unpleasant for all involved, I do expect.”

All we can do is wait and see. Solidarity reports that it will be making a move eastwards shortly on a march to Darkshire. More news as this all develops.

[flammos200]

The Silvermoon Tribune

House Balances Out

Against all odds, House Crystalpine seems to be recovering from financial - and personal loss. The death of one of its members and unplanned expenditure cut deeply into House funds little over a month ago. Since then, the Serynzheri have been making amends with houses Phoenixcry and Sunsea, in an effort to stabilize their position. The tactic seems to be working well for them, though sources say funds are being channeled off-world into Shattrath, for an unknown reason. More about the standing of the Noble Houses, on page 12.

Tireless Triage

A four-hour long surgery managed to save the life of Thullen Bronzedrake, the head of the Bronzedrake family eariler today, the hands of a doctor and the faith of a Priest, both in the employ of Deepriver Labs, managing to achieve what could very well be a medical miracle, after the nearly-late Bronzedrake's encounter with a particularly volatile Arcane aberration. More on the subject of Deepriver Labs and their seemingly tireless employees can be found on page 5.

The Phoenix Rises

Farehrynniel Dawnweaver, last of the Dawnweaver line, has recently come back into the public spotlight, strengthening her bonds with House Haelsyth, and joining them in mourning of Cyielra Haelsyth, who had been a part of the House Serynzheri by marriage. After Farehrynniel's death, over two years ago, and the subsequent re-adoption of her foster daughter Arivanya, rumors circulate as to why the last Dawnweaver would seek to return to public view now, though most point to settling or otherwise instigating inter-House feuds.

"It's a convenient time for her to come back, don't you think? All in her favor, when all her enemies are weakened.." an anonymous peer has commented.

More on the recently-resurrected on page 3.

Action-figure Vigilante

A mugging attempt was prevented last night by an unusual vigilante. As she was about to be accosted, the victim heard strange Murloc-like growls, and a spindly, masked individual brandished an action-figure of Thaura Shatterstar, a Commander in the Shattered Sun offensive, at her aggressor, allegedly pushing a button that made the toy swing its sword. So startled by the fact was the would-be mugger that he turned tail and ran without a second thought.

"I don't know about you," said the victim, who would like to remain anonymous "but I'm ordering one of those from Shattrath right this instant. I never even got to thank whoever was wielding it, though. I suppose I'll have to thank the Shattered Sun instead, for making that kind of toy."

More on the Shattered Sun's toy industry on page 2.

Humanity Weekly

Supremacist Slavers on Alliance Soil

The grassroots of what could very well be a Human Supremacist group has appeared and acted on Alliance territory, enslaving members of the other races of both factions and Humans alike, according to a Kaldorei named Gia, who was allegedly bought by an aging Human lady, of dark skin and white hair, proclaiming herself an "Arcanist". The incidents were reported to the Redridge guard, and though not much in the way of forces could be spared to provide more regular patrols, word was sent to Elwynn, Duskwood and Westfall, and the local population has been warned not to get into potentially dangerous situations, and not to converse with strangers on a one-on-one basis, and turn in any suspected incidents of slavery to the guards at once.

Elwynn and Duskwood in particular appear to have been hot-spots for the kidnappings and enslavement, from the words of the captured Druid.

"We can't really do much - there's too little information. We'd need better descriptions of who we're working with, so the best we can do is tell people to keep their eyes peeled, and don't take unnecessary risks when dealing with strangers. We're always here to report suspicious activities to." said a Redridge guard on the matter, "Besides, we have little enough numbers as is. We might be able to spare a couple of people to watch the roads a little more, but nothing else."

More on kidnappings and slavery in the Alliance on page 8.

[Sol]

One particular incident seems to have hit trashy tabloids across the globe this week.

The Violet Mirror
Wednesday 30 May

Public uproar in the Silver Enclave today with reports coming in from Dalarani holdings in Silverpine Forest claiming Forsaken aggression against the magi of Ambermill. It appears that a force of fearsome Forsaken zealots set upon a peaceful mining operation within the woods with intent to violently seize control of the mine and execute those overseeing the operation. The force having been tellingly accompanied by a single orc of Orgrimmar, a survivor of the attack, who wishes to go anonymous, has decried it as an act of war.

"They set upon us so quickly, and in such numbers that our skeleton staff of miners and magi could not hold them off. Myself and my colleagues barely escaped with our lives via portal," he told the Mirror. When questioned as to what he hoped the Kirin Tor's response would be, he stated: "Dalaran was a founding member of the Alliance, and the Alliance has never let us down. If it comes to choosing a side, our choice is already clear. This just proves how out of control the Horde is."

The Forsaken ambassador with the Sunreavers insisted that the actions of independent paramilitaries cannot be regulated, even if they claim to act in the Forsaken's favour. When questioned on rumours that the attack was led by a so-called Executor (a rank used by the Deathguard, the primary military force of the Forsaken), he declined to comment further.

Lordaeronian Herald
Thusday 31 May

Our boys and girls in Silverpine scored a decisive victory this week against the underhanded cravens of Ambermill and their cloak-and-dagger schemes to steal Lordaeron's resources while the bulk of our Deathguard remain away in Northrend. The move was attributed to the Black Harvest, a force which briefly made headlines here in the Capital when it was credited for uncovering Cult of the Damned infiltration in the Alliance forces working out of Hearthglen.

In another blow against treachery within the Alliance, they seized a mineshaft that was excavated and prospected immediately before the coming of the Lich King and the betrayal of the Bastard Prince which had since been occupied by the skirt-wearing purple pansies, who intended to strip it of its mineral wealth in tin and iron for the purpose of supplying material to the Alliance war effort. Their heroic actions have won the lands back for Lordaeron's cause.

Most troublingly of all, however, there have been reports that a unit of the Alliance's elite special operations force known the Seventh Legion was supposedly sighted helping secure the mine against the Forsaken. Nonetheless, they have been routed thus, and the servants of Her Undying Majesty are forever vigilant against the aggression of all turncoat breathers.

Stormwind Daily Post
Friday 1 June

The blasphemous horrors occupying the ruins of Lordaeron calling themselves the Forsaken have continued their callous campaign of deniable aggression against the Alliance-loyal magi of Ambermill, in what seems to be a direct violation of the tenuous ceasefire brokered between Warchief Thrall and His Majesty the King Varian Wrynn in the wake of the Northern War. Mages, labourers and Alliance soldiers were reportedly slaughtered with utmost brutality by the undead forces, and when questioned an 'ambassador' of the heathens outsourced the blame to 'independent paramilitaries', 'potential rogue elements' within the faction that do not represent the needs and wishes of the whole.

Does this not sound spectacularly similar to the flimsy excuse these creatures used after the tragedy at the Wrathgate three years ago? The Dalarani citizens of Ambermill chose to remain peacefully in their homes when the city-state itself relocated to the skies of Northrend, and for their trouble they are butchered and stolen from by these monsters. A mine was attacked and all those working within were killed, Light protect their souls, by a joint force of undead and brutal greenskins alike. It is unsurprising that such primitive savages and such unholy aberrations now fight side by side.

These Dalarani still pledge loyalty to our Grand Aliance, even if their fence-sitting overlords in the sky beg to differ. And yet our leaders stand idly by and let such beasts as these Forsaken continue to despoil and corrupt a land that is already so tragically blighted. If the Alliance will not stand up against such evil and injustice, who will?

[Rigley]

The Stormwind Daily Post

'LOOSE THREADS'

Due to recent administrative oversights, the usual journalist for this column has been replaced for the time being.

A question to pose to you all, my readers. How does a wholly unknown organization go from raving in a a Stormwind meeting hall at the start of a month to erecting fully fledged fortifications at the end?
Because whether you realize it or not, that's what's happening. For those of you who don't travel near the regions of Darkshire much (one can't be blamed for steering clear), there's some strange construction afoot. While it was fairly well advertised that the Solidarity organization was to be setting up shop in the abandoned row of homes and specifically the farm near the town of Darkshire, there's something more curious about their current efforts to protect the region.

Walls. Not walls constructed of crude logs or even walls of any kind of improvisation, but actual fortifications like a military unit might establish. This author can't be the only one who finds that suspicious. Refurbishing run-down buildings is one thing, but large scale construction with materials for a solid defense doesn't come cheap, and it certainly doesn't come from the resources alotted by a 'nonprofit' organization.

So the question remains-- how is this possible? Because while their work may be well and good, there is a certain suspicion about their actions as a whole that can't be thrown away in all of the hype. Stormwind officials were in agreement, stating;

"One does not just throw down a fortification in an area like Duskwood. Elwynn is understandable, even Westfall, but how do these supplies even consistantly reach them for such a project? It baffles the mind, as does how they could possibly afford such construction."

Perhaps the best summation of the Solidarity movement came from their target in much of this 'struggle', Stormwind House of Nobles member Lord Maxwell Walforth;

"What I am observing in the Solidarity movement is that it is one of loose ends. As a man very understanding of these 'loose ends' in politics and trade circumstances, I should know. They may weave a pleasant enough tapestry for the peasantry and the gullible commoner, but those loose ends will remain in the form of questions, of which they cannot provide us any answer within the realm of satisfaction. It's quite unfortunate for them that what journalists and courts revel in the most is pulling upon those loose ends."

More as things develop.

[Rigley]

The Stormwind Daily Post

UPRISING IN LAKESHIRE

Through the night denizens of Goldshire have been spotting guardsmen en route to the east, armed and ready. With a lift of press given earlier today we tell you this;

The city of Lakeshire has been overrun!

Yesterday evening a riot was incited in Darkshire-- at current we have no report as to who began the whole upheaval, but shortly thereafter a wave of protesters and rioters began to overrun the border into Redridge, trampling both one another and the defending guardsmen in their rampage to the doorstep of the Lakeshire Town Hall. Reports from the initial rally say that civilians were angered by the presence of Lakeshire guardsmen sent to assess the situation, and retaliated against them.

The state of things was left in disarray for some time, but Stormwind's decision came swiftly. A missive from the king's high command read as follows:

ATTENTION:

THE PEOPLE'S ORGANIZATION OF SOLIDARITY HAS COMITTED CRIMES AGAINST THE KINGDOM AND ITS CROWN. SOLDIERS OF THE CROWN, SUBJECTS, AND OTHER OPPOINTED OFFICIALS HAVE BEEN AFFLICTED IN INJURY OR DEATH, AND THE INCITING OF A RIOT HAS LED TO THE OCCUPATION OF THE LANDS OF LAKESHIRE.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
HENCEFORTH, SOLIDARITY AND ALL OF ITS MEMBERS SHALL BE KNOWN AS TRAITORS. THEY MAY TURN THEMSELVES FORWARD TO THE MERCY OF THE STORMWIND COURT, OR SHALL DIE A TRAITOR'S DEATH SHOULD THEIR AGGRESSION CONTINUE.

Throughout the kingdom Solidarity recruiters have been captured and imprisoned, as have the members present in their Stormwind Headquarters.

While some Solidarity members have stated that the rebellion at Lakeshire was not of their doing, minutemen and footmen of their ranks now patrol the streets. A Solidarity Marshal reportedly holds power at current in the town-- and all chains of command still point towards the main hold in Duskwood.

"We take no sides in this conflict." stated Lord Ello Ebonlocke of Darkshire, in a brief interview concerning the happenings. "We cannot afford to be in battle with a force so nearby-- drawing our militia any thinner would be the fall of this city."

Other city officials were not available for comment, but Magistrate Solomon of Lakeshire and Captain Gryan Stoutmantle have pledged to stand up in arms with all who will rally behind them. Sentinel Hill has already forces out the Solidarity members within its limits, and slowly the Lakeshire guard force has been regrouping.

Solidarity officials were not available for comment.

More details as this develops.

[Rigley]

The Stormwind Daily Post

CLOSURE?

Since the riots in Lakeshire the border between Redridge and Elwynn forest has been a hot spot for skirmishes between Solidarity forces and a renewed force of the Lakeshire guard, bolstered by forces from Goldshire and the surrounding area.

This weekend though the battle front was broken, with the announcement of a full dispatch of military forces from Stormwind heading directly towards the border, and rumors of Blackrock movement from east of Lakeshire. Solidarity forces and officials have called for a cease fire from both sides, and have made their willingness to negotiate the end of this conflict known. The following was released from the Stormwind royal government following this request;

“We of Stormwind have no desire to see any more of our people, former or present soldiers, pitted against one another. The Kingdom of Stormwind has made its request for negotiations known from the beginning of this conflict, and will seek to find the best course of action for its people in the coming discussions for peace.”

It has been confirmed by government officials that King Varian Wrynn is to be attending the negotiations in person, at the Eastvale Lumbermill, a territory more or less neutral to the battle at this point due to its combined rebel support and reinforcement from Stormwind's troops as of late. The Solidarity chief was not available for comment, but many high ranking Marshals have spoken directly against concessions from the rebel force. One Andrew Arkenstone, a Solidarity Marshal currently in control of the town of Moonbrook, had this to say this past Friday,

“What happened in Redridge will not happen again under my watch. I'll have no part in any peace talks, or any continued plans by the rest of the movement. As far as I am concerned Moonbrook and my stationed forces lower our arms now. We will be discussing the pardon of my enlisted soldiers before the city is turned over to the crown.”

Despite this, Moonbrook has actually given an outburst of defensive force against Stormwind soldiers attempting to enter the city to discuss these terms. Marshal Arkenstone has not been available for comment since his last correspondence to the press.

Hopefully the turmoil will be able to subside shortly with the peace treaty close at hand.

The only other information we have been able to garner was from an interview with Solidarity second-in-command Harold Street, who gave us the following response

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fliers have been spotted about Stormwind with a simple message:

STORMWIND HARBOR:

A STORM IS COMING.

[Rigley]

The Stormwind Daily Post

THE SOLIDARITY RIOTS

Yesterday brought us a catastrophic scene.

In a terrible series of events being deemed the Solidarity riots, a wave of violence swept across Stormwind's streets. For about two hours there was non-stop rioting breaking out within the city, with guardsmen rushing to quell the advancing mobs and attempting to contain the damage they had been causing.

Here's what we've been able to piece together of this story so far.

At present it is being said that this was a ploy of the terrorist organization Solidarity; at the time of the attack much of Stormwind's local guardsmen had been temporarily deployed to deal with the border issues with the still overrun Redridge mountain range. Not long after King Varian Wrynn made his appearance at the gathering did the riots begin, and by the time the king and his forces had made their return it was too late to stop the full spread of the rioters. Sources report that violence broke out in the harbor first, and as guardsmen were diverted to quell the riots more steadily began to flare up in other districts.

However, there is a much more curious tone to things on Solidarity's side, if their guilt is to be believed.

While we have yet to see any documentation or evidence to support this, many attending the treaty signing say that Marshal Harold Street, the second-in-command of the rogue organization, was murdered as he left to retrieve documents vital to the treaty's signing.

And further, while some refer to this as the Solidarity riots, other news outlets have taken to naming it the Solidarity massacre. And a massacre it was for the former vigilante force, with the streets of the Dwarven District practically covered in the bodies of the young militiamen, veterans, and civilian aids alike. One Solidarity footman now defected and turned over to Stormwind authorities, Darren Ingram, had this to say;

“It was... unbelievable. When the riots broke out our first move was to attempt to quell them. Our commanding officer, Marshal Orwell, began to round us up and lead us out-- but we got stopped. The regional overseer showed up, and was telling us we were to fight with the rioters... Well, Orwell wasn't taking any of it. They got in an argument. Things got heated, and... Orwell took a blade through his chest. They killed the ones who wouldn't fight for them. Killed and threatened their families before their eyes to force them out onto the field. Told them that Moonbrook and Lakeshire would be the same, if they had family there.

I never've seen grown men break down like those soldiers did. Some of them they put down on the spot. Others they got out onto the field. Others didn't seem to care, and by this point we knew why. Mages started coming in to help with fortifying the meeting hall, as well as a few spare hands who began stripping my slain brothers-in-arms of their armor for their own use. They were Defias, branded and wearing their red bandana so that there would be no mistake.

I've been to many battlefields. I know the undead could do such a thing... But I have never seen another human treat a person as these bastards did to my comrades yesterday.”

Sources from Stormwind's government state the same thing. Both Westfall and Redridge confirm many former Solidarity regiments now geared in Defias markers, and expect a reprise in violence shortly. For now the only official word from Stormwind is as follows;

“The Defias' actions will not be left unpunished. Solidarity is no longer the focus now-- it is but a tool, now shattering under its wielder. We know now where the Defias have entrenched themselves-- Moonbrook, where it is likely they have been funneling out troops and supplies from their ransacked hideout. While Stormwind places great importance upon extracting this threat though, we must first turn our attention towards Lakeshire. Both at risk of the Defias' ill intentions and a likely strike from the Blackrock Orcs, we must do what we can to detain the damage to the region and its people.”

Stormwind forces have ensured us that regiments will lead the way into both Moonbrook and Lakeshire shortly.

At present the violence is Stormwind is gone, and hopefully it will not reach the city again. We will pen more on this as the story develops.

[Rigley]

The Stormwind Daily Post

LAKESHIRE RECLAIMED

As the dust settles over last night's conflicts we are proud to report to you a bit of good news, between the recent riots and violent assaults taking place in the further reaches of the Kingdom;

Lakeshire has been reclaimed!

Yesterday Stormwind and allied forces gathered along the eastern border and mounted an assault on the city of Lakeshire, aiming to clear out the usurper leadership of the terrorist organization Solidarity. Unfortunately for both sides participating in this bloody conflict, there was another assault at hand-- one which stemmed down from the northern orcish tribe of the Blackrocks.

"It was horrible-- all of it." remarks one unnamed Solidarity minutemen who had turned himself over to royal authorities moments before the assault. "There was fighting everywhere, with everyone. Before the royalists came we saw disputes going on from the three Marshals, two which had retreated into the city with their men once the assault was heard of. None of them agreed-- they wanted to surrender, or negotiate, or launch a full defensive. One of them was shot before the battle was even underway, and his protesting men either knocked out, restrained or even killed by the mob that was forming by then.

What we were left with was men shaking in their boots. Afraid of the orcs, afraid of the Alliance, afraid of having to fight their former brothers from the king's army-- it was a catastrophe. Some of them ended it before the order to charge was even given.

I've been with Solidarity since the beginning. This wasn't the group I joined."

Reports from the Stormwind army also state that infighting began within the Solidarity group, and in the wake of a Blackrock demolisher the entire unit left within Lakeshire broke into a genuine civil war. Reports state that casualties were at a severe high.

With Lakeshire retaken Moonbrook has become the next location in the sights of the King's army. After the defias-spurred riots concluded within the long-contested Westfall town Solidarity banners still fly, and the apparent leadership gives no indication of surrender. Compounded upon this there is still no word at all being given from the Solidarity Headquarters located in the heart of Duskwood-- any approaching are now being turned away from entering the strong hold, and no explanation of these recent actions has come forth from the remaining two of the former trio of Solidarity's heirarchy.

More to come as the story develops.

[Rigley]

The Stormwind Daily Post

REGIONS UNSTEADY WITHOUT MILITIA GROUP

While the armies of Stormwind begin to encircle Moonbrook and the other pockets of Solidarity's power in Westfall, the royal blades are not the only thing the rebel group has to worry about.

The Solidarity headquarters in Duskwood has found itself contending with the usual foes out in the haunted woodland; in recent days villagers have reported that the continual expansion and reinforcement seems to have drawn the ire of the worgen in the nearby Brightwood Grove, spurring on a terrible clash between Solidarity soldiers and a worgen pack in the dead of night. Not only that, but supplies have begun to run short, and soldiers have begun to leave, turning themselves into the custody of Stormwind. Some speculate that the only ones remaining are those feircly loyal to the organization, or those fearing repercussions for their actions. Unlike previous reports there have not been sightings of forced service or any rioting-- what goes on within the crumbling walls of the fortified farmstead is a mystery.

In other news Westfall, though slowly being brought back to order by Stormwind troops, has begun to feel the presence of the Defias resurfacing. Earlier this week the former Solidarity staging ground camp was sacked by Defias looters prior to Stormwind's arrival, leaving behind only bodies of the rebel organization's soldiers, slain transients, and the wreckage of the camp. Slowly the Solidarity guard force seems to be being whittled away either by Stormwind's advance or the Defias' strikes upon farmsteads-- Farmers are now fearing that their lands will be turned back into battlegrounds and Defias hideouts now, and it's clear that the residents of Moonbrook think the same. Residents of Westfall are growing tense as more of the Solidarity held lands fall to the Defias, and the influx of transients has led to severe overcrowding in Sentinel Hill.

“We expect that things will come back to order with the rebel forces removed.” spoke a Stormwind captain in an interview with the press. “We understand that civilians are feeling intimidated by the removal of these soldiers, but things will return to normal in due time. We ask for your patience and understanding as we work to right this situation.”

Of course, this prompted an angry response from locals as well;

“Normal? Normal's why those rebels are here in the first place. Normal's why they got so many people runnin' under them for help. If we're gonna end up back where we started then I say to hell with it-- keep them here.”

Unrest is growing, and the former Solidarity-aided transients flowing into farmyards and outposts has done very little to aid the situation. Gryan Stoutmantle of Sentinel Hill wrestles to disperse any protests, and is currently considering 'more involved methods'.
More as the story develops.

[Rigley]

The Stormwind Daily Post

THE END OF SOLIDARITY

What began as the siege of Moonbrook became something wholly different last night.

Yesterday a battle began in the city of Moonbrook, a land held by the Solidarity rebels. In a last ditch effort for the rebellion to keep its foothold in the western province, walls and other fortifications were constructed, built strong so that even in the aftermath the work of the masons still stands, battered and crumbling from the events of the day. The royal forces marched upon the city by noon, aided by a group of brave warriors of the Alliance. With their aid they were able to penetrate the defenses of the city and return order to the city, arresting those participating in the rebellion and dispersing any civilian supporters.

However, the true heroes of this story are those who aided the military.

In the heat of the battle, reports state that they retrieved the (then second in command) Marshal of the rebel organization, Andrew Arkenstone. Arkenstone had been gravely injured during a last ditch effort by the Defias to remove the pacifist command of Solidarity-- and luckily, failed. With healing from the supporting group Arkenstone gave a request to be brought to Duskwood, specifically the Solidarity headquarters located there. Instead of awaiting military support that could have led to the escape of the failing rebel group, Alliance scouts report them heading east into the dark woodland shortly after leaving the inn with the injured marshal.

While little has been told as to the events that took place in the Solidarity headquarters, no casualties came from either side. In the end a peaceful surrender was given, and the whole of Solidarity's remaining supporters followed in to Duskwood, where they were detained alongside their chief, a man named Harleigh Seltaine. While we can only speculate what brought about this remarkable end of aggression, we are assured that it would not have been possible without intervention by these brave souls.

As such, the Stormwind Daily Post would like to extend its thanks to the following;

Andrew Arkenstone
Yulia Baradhaim
Annabelle Bronco
Baidin Dolance
Gantrithor, of Honor Hold
Matthew Hunter
Nikolisko Petrovski
Castor Rookwood
Vyerni
Alan (Full name not documented)

These are the confirmed names of those who participated in the final surrender of Solidarity-- if your name has been left off this list, please send us a correction.

In the wake of Solidarity there seems to be much confusion. The arresting party reported that Chief Seltaine of Solidarity had told them that the source of Solidarity's corruption was that of one of the Stormwind Noble House. Though, when interrogated alone, Seltaine has reportedly asked that full blame be placed upon him. Those who participated in Solidarity's rebellion are facing various rulings-- those confirmed as Defias are to be sent to the gallows. That being said, many have received a full pardon upon the King's own request-- particularly those who fought in the battle of Moonbrook and Lakeshire, in which many surrendered to the advancing forces prior to engagement. The Marshals of Solidarity range with execution to a lengthy stay within the Stockades, depending upon their actions in battle-- Marshal Andrew Arkenstone himself, for his efforts for peace and final participation in the conclusion to the rebellion, has been granted a brief stay, providing he will testify to his fullest extent in court. The Marshal has agreed, and has stated that he will seek to reform the true spirit of the vigilante group after his release;

"There's more that we could do. More that we could do and do right, that is. When Solidarity comes back it will not be funded by people lurking in the shadows or a corrupt head. It will be out of our pockets-- each man and woman who wishes to fight. It will be harder, and we will struggle-- but the struggle is worth it if we could have just a taste of the glory we felt before the decline, and keep it."


Harleigh Seltaine, the chief of the rogue organization, has an undecided fate at present. It is expected that he will face a life sentence in the Stockades, if an execution is not ruled upon him for his involvement.

He has refused to give comment, but did request we add a notation to our final print.

As Solidarity phases out of the provinces a sense of dread comes with it. Moonbrook and the Solidarity Headquarters stand testament to the fears of the people-- The two locations are currently empty save looters and transients, many of whom can be seen mourning the fall of the organization once widely regarded as one which would bring change to the kingdom. Stormwind's troops have swiftly retreated following the fall of the rebellion, and some say there is little left in their wake to keep the peace.

Perhaps what Solidarity began can be finished yet, or perhaps things will simply go back to normal-- only time will tell. Perhaps next time an organization like this rises again though, they will take this as a cautionary tale. Until then, we will sign off here. Let us all hope for the best as the kingdom comes back to order.

[By request:]

In Memory of Harold Street,
Husband, Father,
Champion of the Downtrodden,
Solidarity ended with you.
Rest in Peace.
-H.S.

[Rigley]

The Undercity Post presents...

Grave News

A City And Some Dwarves

Good evening, oh gracious reading base. We regretfully must inform you that our kingdom-spanning series entry Alterac: Why Lordaeron was Better will not be gracing your pages of this daily post today. Instead we bring to you an alternative but no less engrossing tale which my cadaverous cohorts and I came upon while acting on our journalistic endeavors in the southern snowy peaks.

While scaling along the great Alteracian mountain ranges we found our attention drawn to a most mundane sight. A plane! An Alliance transport of sorts, to be exact. While we were at first content to wish it a disastrous crash and be on our way we saw it descending down into one of the higher reaches of the mountains which-- upon closer inspection through the current obfuscating flurry-- we deemed to have a particular sort of fortification, with details quite muddled by our current position. Having a small force of her majesty's deathguards among our group we thought it at least worthy of merit to investigate, and followed along in the stead of the contrails still visible above us.

What we found was truly interesting. It seemed that there was some sort of peculiar stonework wrapping about the level ground below this peak. Even curiouser still was the presence of a strange gleaming beam of light, piercing the sky through the snowy downpour. Also, there were dwarves. For a later note, one reason that Lordaeron is better than the present-day Alterac is that there are no dwarves lingering about it's remains. Unruly creatures, those. Unimpeded we lay in wait.

In an exclusive and not wholly consensual interview with an expeditionary mountaineer (his name was withheld upon his request, wherein he never gave it and we were not entirely interested in knowing it), he stated that;

“The place is called Northwind and it ain't any business of anyone's snoopin' about it!” he partly screamed, partly gargled as we questioned him. “I don't know what's in it, I just know it ain't right!”

The kind mountaineer was then graciously let go of and was kind enough to serve as an invigorating dinner guest for our exploring party while we made camp that night. Most intrigued by this 'Northwind' we have compiled a small list of facts from our repertoire of knowledge upon the location:

• It is full of dwarves.
  

Yes my loyal readerbase, it seems we have found a frontier of fresh investigation! Our team of historians have nothing of significant worth on the place, yet preliminary investigations confirm that it quite certainly exists, and remarkably near our homeland as well. We have decided to endeavor to keep you, our loyal audience, filled in as our ongoing investigation is put underway.

As soon as we determine a suitable work-around on that small issue of the dwarven contingent.


We entreat you to wait for our next issue.

--Horatio Gaulton, Grave News - Undercity Post

[SachikoMaeda]

The Silvermoon Tribune

Noble Performer to Return to the Stage

"I haven't had a theater in so long. Not since the Scourge terrorized our city and destroyed the one I had spent so long to build. With the recent campaigns with House Bloodsun to push back the Amani in our lands and countless wars, I've learned I'm not as militant as the others in my house," Leron Silverfang stated from his manor when he spoke to the press just yesterday. He appeared to be in good spirits regardless of the injuries he had received in his latest venture. He later went on to state that he no longer wished to deal with the aches and pains of a warrior, but to "return to the headaches of being a director and actor."

"I haven't enjoyed life to its fullest. I have my son and a husband, but they won't have me for long if I keep running out to battle in my condition. I've decided to step away from any military dealings my family may have and focus on the politics while I rebuild my theater. I'm sure my cousin [Xaiden] would love to have full control of the Blades again... [I] just hope to no longer get a broken bone from an angry Amani troll, but rather a slip on stage."

Lord Silverfang later went on to state he has hopes of allowing his son Kyran Silverfang to act alongside him in his first show. If all goes according to plan, he expects to have his first show ready within three months. "I hope to have one of my late father's original stories adapted for the set. They were popular in their day and hopefully can draw in a crowd and keep them entertained."

For more on the Silverfang family, their rise in politics, and their lives, turn to page three.

Fire in the Court

News has surfaced of charges against the Blood Knights and an orphanage worker spanning from harassment, assault, and even attempted murder. These charges have come from two men, Gabril Gatsbi'nore and Doctor Leiatrius Atho'lenar. The two claimed that they were assaulted by a currently unnamed Blood Knight by the river in Eversong only a day prior to filing a formal complaint to the Blood Knight order as well as trying to press charges against the Knight that had assaulted them.

"The Blood Knights have acted quite poor throughout this whole ordeal," Gabril Gatsbi'nore stated, obviously upset, "They have been discriminating against Doctor [Atho'lenar], refusing to listen to his words and claiming him to be a murderer simply because he is a Death Knight. Such discrimination will not be tolerated in a court of law."

Gabril refused to answer any questions regarding details of the supposed assault, the names of others involved, and refused to elaborate further upon the upcoming trail. Before leaving he assured he has "plenty of lawyers" and will not let such charges slide. Our reporters are working on getting statements from the Blood Knights as well as Doctor Atho'lenar. We will be sure to keep updates of the trial and all details as they unfold.