Hear ye, hear ye!
In the Autumn of the Eighth Year of Grand Duke Calent's Reign, the Grand Duke's home duchy of Allar has suffered a terrible flood. Located on the coast of the duchy, Allar [the capital city] was extensively damaged when the harbor walls collapsed and allowed seawater to flood into the city. Hundreds have been killed. Some remain missing and are presumed dead. Many, many more Allarrians are without shelter and must endure the bitter cold autumn nights beneath the stars. Even the Duke has been put out of his home; until the waters recede, the palace is uninhabitable.
Duke Molneux has asked his citizens help each other through this difficult time. People with nearby county estates or homes that remain undamaged have been asked to take in as many women and children as they can. To help those left without food, the Duke has already purchased food from the winter stores for distribution. It seems even in this time of crisis, he is aware of the impact such a large reduction could have in the coming months, for the food has been carefully rationed. Those close to the Duke claim that even he is eating porridge and day-old bread, and he has promised to help rebuild the city with his personal fortune and his own two hands, if necessary.
The city of Allar flooded when the harbor walls cracked, then suddenly gave way, according to official reports. Speaking to citizens, however, reveals a different story. Witnesses claim the city, particularly those areas near the palace, were flooding well before the walls broke down. Others claim to have seen water flowing uphill into the palace gardens in a decidedly unnatural way. Was magic involved? Is Duke Molneux, a man known to be as dedicated to the eradication of the mage threat as the Grand Duke himself, hiding something? Is it his humble beginnings that drives Duke Molneux to dedicate his time and his money to helping the common Allarrian, or is he trying to make amends for covering up a dark secret?
Officially, the flood was an unfortunate, but natural event...but many Allarrians still have questions about the events of that day. This crier will keep you updated as we learn more.