Arena Preparation

Pop. 159, Late Winter of 343, Year 92

258 goblin and troll prisoners were thrown into the pit at the bottom of the arena to await their fate for the upcoming gladiatorial games. While the dwarves were careful at first, only removing prisoners with cages adjacent to the pit, they soon discovered that all of the captives were completely demoralized. Caution was thrown to the wind and a great goblin & troll pit dropping party commenced!





None offered any resistance, including the usually wily snatchers and thieves.

Abduction

Pop. 160, Late Winter of 341 (Year 90)

Atis and Kosoth Blockadetempted lost their only son, Atis II, to a goblin snatcher.





The news shocked the fortress, as the last abduction of a child happened 80 years ago. Overconfidence was the root cause. Despite a goblin incursion, the order for all civilians to return to safety was never ordered. With siege after siege beaten back, the danger of quick goblin snatchers was overlooked just this once to tragic results.

Final Judgment

Pop. 161, Early Spring 341 (Year 90)

Atis the Vampire languished in prison for 7 years before an appropriate sentence was decided on. While some dwarves pointed out that she would be perfect for the position of bookkeeper and manager, the family of the vampire's victim, Morul Anguishedpages, saw nothing less than death as a satisfactory punishment. As one of the largest families of the fortress, second only to the Channeltree clan, there was little hope for a merciful outcome. The current mayor, Mosus II, had married into the Anguishedpages family and thus recused herself from the decision. Dishmab Shootwondered-Vesselbrain, heiress to the throne, made the final judgment and carried out the sentence with the legendary mace, Drumseer. The fact that the victim was only a child sealed Atis's fate.

Dragon Legacy

Pop. 165, Early Winter of 339 (Year 88)

The Dragon Etog Ngobsulo Slakga Zangu has come! A gigantic reptilian creature. It is magical and can breath fire. These monsters can live for thousands of years.

A new dragon was captured! Not only that, but it was discovered that Etog has strong connections to three of the four dragons that perished during the Rampage of Tob. He is the former mate of Ibmat, the fortress's first dragon, the father of Slusa, the youngest adult dragon, and the son of Istrath, Relicshield's largest dragon.





Meng II Lanterngaze-Channeltree has her work cut out for her in training Etog. Hopefully she and Etog will live up to the fine legacy left behind by Meng Roughwhips and his dragons.

Last Straw

Pop. 165, Late Autumn of 339 (Year 88)

The traffic jam and subsequent shouting match between human and dwarven merchants appears to have been the last straw for the Tattooed Confederacy. With tensions already high due to the death of a diplomat, the humans declared war. The first siege was routed without any losses. Perhaps they will sue for peace by next summer.

Trapped!

Pop. 165, Early Summer 339 (Year 88)

While cleaning up the remains of a broken goblin siege, an unconscious dwarf civilian was found in one of the cages marked for destruction. With so much blood and gore everywhere, it's fortunate that he was noticed at all. When Aban Fissuretoure regained consciousness, he explained how had been stabbed with a spear before he could flee to safety. He was bleeding and was in need of medical attention, but the normal methods of releasing prisoners from cages weren't the best options for a dwarf suffering from serious spear wound. Luckily, the time-consuming, but safe method of lever-release was used and Aban was able to get medical attention in time. In case of a future occurrence, an alternative method of safely extricating injured dwarves from cages is now being sought.

Traffic Jam

Late Autumn through Mid-Winter of 338 (Year 87)

For years, traffic has flowed through the underground trade network without a hitch. Wagons have been allowed occasionally, though if the humans were granted access for their wagons for a season, dwarven wagons were barred that same year to prevent traffic jams. This year, while the humans were packing up, the dwarven caravan was nowhere in sight.

Thinking that perhaps the earlier fighting with goblins had caused dwarven merchants to avoid the area, the human wagons were released. The dwarven caravan arrived soon after, causing a massive pile-up in the main northern tunnel.



The tunnel was expanded to no avail. The draft animals refused to budge, even when a troll prisoner was released nearby to frighten them into moving. Finally, several of the wagons broke down in the chaos and the merchants were able to squeeze by each other, though harsh words were shared between the humans and dwarves.

Sigun Graniteright

Pop. 166, Late Summer of 338 (Year 87)

All the entrances to the trade network have been open this year, providing greater security to merchants. Once rare, cage traps have been crafted in much greater numbers in preparation for the upcoming gladiatorial games in the Spring of 351. Unfortunately, Sigun Graniteright, a 14-year-old marksdwarf recruit, was slain during the most recent siege. When the alarms sounded, she forgot to fill her quiver. Rather than retreat to restock, she charged into melee ahead of more experienced warriors and was killed by a headshot from a goblin bowman.

Ibmat's Brood

Pop. 167, Mid-Summer of 338 (Year 87)

Ibmat's hatchlings did well against their first forgotten beast. Protected by fortifications, they blasted the creature with fire, leaving no trace of it behind.



Still, the dragon guards will be managed with greater oversight so that the tragedy that befell the adult dragons isn't repeated. Should another forgotten beast appear that dragons cannot handle, the cave-in trap will be deployed!

Return to the Caverns

Pop. 167, Late Spring 338 (Year 87)

With more forgotten beasts entering the lower reaches, it was decided to bring Ibmat's two oldest hatchlings into service earlier than originally planned. Several of the best warriors of Relicshield ventured into the Second Cavern to hold back any forgotten beasts that might approach before the dragons were ready. Two forgotten beasts rushed the reopened area, but were quickly dealt with.

The Forgotten Beast Zitha Siga Sedast has come! A gigantic quadruped composed of steam. It has a stubby horn and it undulates rhythmically.

Zitha was no match for Stakud II Roughwhips-Lanterngaze, daughter of the legendary dragon trainer, Meng Roughwhips.



The Forgotten Beast Kosmza Sodorosnong has come! An enormous three-eyed mosquito. It has a long, straight horn and it undulates rhythmically. Beware its hunger for warm blood!

Deler, patriarch of of the Anguishedpages family, slew the next creature to emerge. Though known for his prowess with the sword, Deler defeated Koz with a shield strike.

The Mountain Titan

Pop. 167, Autumn of 337 (Year 86)

The vast majority of megabeasts that the dwarves of Relicshield have fought have been forgotten beasts from the caverns below.  Four decades ago, a swamp titan breached the fortress's defenses due to a security oversight, but luckily the Relicshield's war grizzlies were on hand.  When a new titan appeared, this time from the mountains, the guards were ready.

The Mountain Titan Slesat Zolstez Susalonu has come! An enormous three-eyed dimetrodon. It has a broad shell and it has an austere look about it. Its pink scales are jagged and overlapping. Beware its webs!

Slesat quickly entered the underground trade network's eastern tunnel.  The creature was met in battle by several legendary soldiers, including Cog Slingriddles.  Already a slayer of a forgotten beasts, Cog hacked away with his axe known as "Swelteredhaunts," eventually cutting the titan in two:

"The Soldier Axe hacks The Mountain Titan in the lower body from behind with his Keshshakdumur and the severed part sails off in an arc!"

Arena Construction

Pop. 167, Mid-Summer of 337 (Year 86)

Miners have been busy digging out the beginnings of an arena. Unfortunately there was a cave-in accident and Astesh Goodhatchet-Gearriddled died. The first match of the future gladiatorial games will be dedicated to her.

Meng and His Dragons

Pop. 169, Late Summer of 336 (Year 85)

Perhaps Meng Roughwhips was prescient. Soon after he appointed an apprentice to help with dragon training, a forgotten beast even mightier than Engror Crypthate ventured into the Second Cavern.

The Forgotten Beast Tob Omsostacnu has come! A gigantic sauropod with external ribs. It has large mandibles and it undulates rhythmically. Its dark violet scales are large and close-set. Beware its deadly dust!

The four largest dragons of Relicshield took on the monster, but its deadly dust and frozen extract proved to be a match for dragon fire. Istrath, Ibmat, Slusa, and Mistrum all perished, but before they died, they took the forgotten beast with them. Meng Roughwhips refused to abandon the wounded dragons during the battle and died alongside them :(. Thirteen dragon hatchlings remain, but the two eldest have nearly thirty years before they reach adulthood. For now, the Second Cavern has been abandoned. Once the brood of Ibmat reaches 51 years of age, the dragons of Relicshield will return to the underworld to do battle!

Whiplash

Pop. 170, Late Spring of 336 (Year 85)

The dwarves were eager to trade with the elves for logs and wooden cages to house prisoners for the gladiatorial games. Though the centennial celebration was 15 years away, new mayor Ilral Wheelrang want to get preparations underway well in advance. Unfortunately, when the elven caravan arrived at the southeast border, they were set upon by a horde of goblin lashers. The cursed weapons, strong enough to penetrate dwarven steel, wiped out the elves long before the dwarven guards could arrive. So soon after the death of a human diplomat, more and more of Relicshield's citizens are clamoring for greater protection for the kingdom's allies. Opening all the gates of the underground trade network is under consideration.

A New Apprentice

Relicshield, pop. 170, Early Spring of 336 (Year 85)

The legendary dragon trainer Meng Roughwhips has worked alone for over a decade. His first apprentice was his daughter-in-law Nish Anguishedpages-Roughwhips, but she died during the Tantrum Spiral of 323. At 114 years of age, Meng knew it was time to find a new apprentice to pass on his skills. Many dwarves clamored for the position and the chance to work with the fortress's dragons, but only one was chosen. Meng found the perfect candidate in Meng II Channeltree-Lanterngaze, an unrelated 33-year-old dwarf with no prior experience, but high potential. As prep work for working with the dragons, Meng II was tasked with training a new generation of war grizzlies. With the plague of stunted growth a thing of the past, war grizzlies have returned to service as trade network guards.

Beware the Werelemur

Autumn of 335 (Year 84)

As the human diplomat Vicu Esminperad approached Relicshield, he was suddenly attacked by the werelemur Lekla. Before help could arrive, he was slain, but the dwarf Rith Crescenttours slew the cursed creature before she could escape. Hopefully the Tattooed Confederacy doesn't use this death as a pretense for war.

Background Checks

Pop. 169, Winter of 334 (Fort Year 83)

The population of the Mountainhome has continued to surge. Migrants were welcomed with open arms and the usual background checks were completely forgotten about. Disaster struck when a toddler was found drained of blood in the middle of the kindergarten! There were no witnesses, but Urdim Channeltree, Captain of the Guard, immediately checked through the written histories of every recent migrant. He found inconsistencies with a spinner named Atis. She was arrested and jailed without food or water.

Seasons passed and when Atis showed no signs of hunger, it was confirmed that she was the vampire. The kingdom's previous vampire was executed on the spot, but most residents of Relicshield felt this was far too kind. The creature has been placed in a secure prison until such time as a fitting punishment has been devised.

Meanwhile, Zefon III of the noble Taxeddagger clan was recently inducted into the military. His great-grandfather, Phyllite I, was the a member of the Original Seven and was the Duke of Relicshield before it became the capital of the Ancient Gravel. The young soldier performed well during his first siege. Though surrounded by legendary soldiers who led the battle in a crimson tide, Zefon III managed to get a killing blow before all the goblins of the Evils of Spray were vanquished.

Population Boom

Pop. 154, Summer of 332 (Fort Year 81)

Almost a decade ago, a tantrum spiral toppled the Mountainhome's population of 134 down to 74. Relicshield has finally made a full recovery due to a massive baby boom and renewed migration. This year also marked the birth of Edem IV, the grandson of Edem II, the tiny hammerdwarf who helped uncover the plague of dwarven dwarfism afflicting all fortress-born dwarves.

New Arrivals

Pop. 103, Spring of 331 (Fort Year 80)

Thanks to the work of Kurik Amudnil, immigration to the Mountainhome has commenced once more. Relicshield welcomed 24 new inhabitants with open arms, eager to boost the population after the devastating Riots of 323. The dragon breeding program has been put on temporary hold. With 4 adults and 13 hatchlings, there are now enough for additional dragon-guarded cavern entrances.

A Good Thrill

Pop. 73, Winter of 328 (Year 77)

Rith II Crescenttours was released from the kindergarten burrow when he was struck with a strange mood. He created an artifact alpaca bone cage, but he was never reassigned to the burrow. Loving a good thrill, the child ran immediately for the outdoors, only to come face to face with a goblin snatcher. The goblin stabbed him in the belly hard enough to pierce a kidney. Luckily, there were soldiers on duty nearby who quickly removed the threat. Despite the grievous wound, Rith II didn't pass out from the pain and walked all the way to the hospital on his own! A future in the military is likely.

Farewell to the Seven

Pop. 73, Spring of 327 (Year 76)

Commander Olivine passed away peacefully, the last of the Original Seven, who were all named after their favorite mineral. Seven decades ago, they laid a firm foundation for the little outpost that later tamed dragons and became the Mountainhome.

Sphalerite: axedwarf, 1st commander, #1 in total kills
Olivine: hammerdwarf, 2nd commander
Phyllite: miner, duke
Cinnabar: miner, duchess consort
Dolomite: chief medic
Selenite: armorsmith, weaponsmith
Gypsum: woodcutter, carpenter

Dishmab Shootwondered-Vesselbrain, the legendary macedwarf and heiress apparent of Relicshield was named as Commander Olivine's successor.

25 Down

Pop. 75, Autumn of 325 (Year 74)

The Evils of Spray returned in force, hoping to take advantage of the Mountainhome's weakened state. The goblins were sorely disappointed. One untrained reservist was killed in battle, but the invaders were crushed and scattered.

Meng the dragon trainer survived the loss of his left leg due to the ghost attack. Despite hobbling on crutches, he still commands the respect of Relicshield's dragons. All four adults are now masterfully trained.

25 forgotten beasts have thus far failed to breach the Mountainhome's defenses. The majority of them have been blasted away by dragonfire, but twice a twisted creature so horrifying arrived that the dragon hatchlings cowered in fear and refused to attack. The hatchlings were brought back to the Dragon Den on the surface. As expected, the adult dragons are far more aggressive, so now Slusa and Istrath guard the second cavern's entrance.

Fight Fire with Fire

The Forgotten Beast Careme Theyiseweri has come! An enormous beakless grouse. It has two broad horns and it has a bloated body. Its dark chestnut feathers are patchy. Beware its fire!

Good thing fire-breathing forgotten beasts aren't immune to dragonfire :D.

Bembul's Revenge

Pop. 76, Autumn of 324 (Year 73)

The ghost of Bembul Earthennourishes, the dwarf who started Relicshield's tantrum spiral appeared. The apparition attacked Meng the dragon trainer, tearing off his left leg :(! A slab is being engraved to put this foul spectre to rest!

Law and Order

Pop. 76, Autumn of 324 (Year 73)

Urdim Channeltree, Captain of the Guard, has continued to sift through clues relating to the murder of his son and former Hammerer, Urdim II, during the Riots of 323, where 61 dwarves lost their lives. In the course of his investigations, Urdim solved three other murders from the same time period. With the fortress only just recovering, Mayor Mosus II worried that three executions might plunge the fortress back into chaos. However, Urdim was adamant that the criminals be brought to justice, including the fortress's manager and broker, Thikut Neutraloiled. Given the extenuating circumstances, and how so many deaths were in retaliation for other slayings, a full pardon was considered. After much wrangling between the Captain of the Guard and the Mayor, a compromise was struck. Each of the accused was given a commuted sentence, substituting the death penalty with 195+ days in prison.

Love of Lead

Apparently the dwarves of Relicshield have a thing for lead maces. Another was created, despite the relative scarcity of lead compared to steel.

Innoketol, "The Creepy Pass", a lead mace
This is a lead mace. All craftsdwarfship is of the highest quality. It is encircled with bands of lead, llama wool and round dolomite cabochons. This object menaces with spikes of oak, clear glass, dolomite, alpaca bone and brown zircon.

Slow Recovery

Pop. 73, Spring of 324 (Year 73)

Kol II and Ilral Treerooms welcomed their son, Shorast, into the world, the first child born since the unrest of the previous year. The last of the riots have finally died down, with all citizens at least content. Meng Roughwhips stepped down as mayor to once again devote time to the dragons of Relicshield. The new mayor, Mosus II Anguishedpages, has proven quite popular with her lack of demands and mandates. With no other nobles at the moment, the legendary weaponsmith has become the de facto leader of the Ancient Gravel. Dishmab Shootwondered-Vesselbrain, the heiress apparent, has deferred her ascension to queen until the capital has fully recovered.

Last of the Seven

Pop. 73, Winter of 323 (Year 72)

Duke Phyllite died of thirst, too depressed to drink from the plentiful alcohol all around him :(. Now Commander Olivine is the only living member of the Original Seven.

Execution

Pop. 74, Winter of 323 (Year 72)

The Mountainhome is slowly recovering from the massive riots that started in the Spring. The widespread looting and violence claimed the lives of nearly half of Relicshield's citizens, including King Urist Shootwondered. Luckily, the larder's surplus outlasted the worst of it, thanks to the restructuring done after the Famine of 304.

The fortress's first dwarf execution was held when Ilral II Wheelrang witnessed his sister, Aban II, murder Dewboy Lanterngaze. Commander Olivine took on the role of Hammerer and carried out the sentence.

Tantrum Spiral

Spring 323 (Year 72)

A full-on tantrum spiral has erupted in Relicshield :'(. Thankfully the Dragon Den is located far away from all of the fighting.

Trouble Brewing

Pop. 134, Spring of 323 (Fortress Year 72)

Tragedy struck throughout the fortress when 2 well-liked citizens, Mayor Onol Lanterngaze and Ingiz Neutraloiled, passed away from old age. With the deaths so soon after the loss of Dewboy II Lanterngaze to troglodytes, Bembul Earthennourishes went insane and was promptly slain by nearby soldiers. The majority of the fortress became quite upset at these developments, forcing the nobility to halt all major projects. Dragon tamer Meng Roughwhips was elected as interim mayor during this troubled time. Time will tell if he can help King Urist and Duke Phyllite calm the masses before riots break out.

Emergency Migration Waiver

Autumn of 322 (Year 71)

A siege ambush caught dwarven merchants outside of the trade tunnels. Many perished, but one marksdwarf guard managed to survive, despite being filled with arrows from an entire squad of goblin archers. With all of his companions gone, King Urist quickly signed off on an emergency migration waiver and Sazir Passeddyes was taken to the hospital.

Sazir Adasatir has been quite content lately. He was rescued recently. He sustained major injuries recently.

He is sixty-three years old, born on the 5th of Sandstone in the year 259.

His left upper leg is broken. His left upper leg is cut open. His left hand is broken. His left hand is cut open. His right lower leg is broken. His right lower leg is cut open. His left lower leg is broken. His left lower leg is cut open. His left lower arm is broken. His left lower arm is cut open. His left upper arm is broken. His left upper arm is cut open. His right lower arm is broken. His right lower arm is cut open. His right upper arm is broken. His right upper arm is cut open. His upper body is cut open. His lower body is cut open. His right false ribs are broken. His stomach is broken. His right elbow is broken. His liver is broken. His left knee is broken. His right shoulder is broken. His left shoulder is broken. His right floating ribs are broken. His left true ribs are broken. His left false ribs are broken. His guts is fractured. His right lung is fractured.

He is corpulent. His hair is wavy. His long sideburns are braided. His very long moustache is arranged in double braids. His very long beard is neatly combed. His very long hair is tied in a pony tail. He has a deeply recessed chin. His slightly wide-set protruding rust eyes have thin irises. His somewhat short narrow ears are free-lobed. His head is somewhat tall. His hair is light brown. His skin is pale brown.

He is clumsy, very weak, really susceptible to disease and really slow to heal.

Sazir Adasatir likes marcasite, steel, red flash opal, acacia wood, bolts, hoods, coins and blue peafowls for their coloration. When possible, he prefers to consume seahorse, swamp whiskey, reindeer's milk and quarry bush leaves. He absolutely detests blood gnats.

He has great intuition and a feel for music, but he has a little difficulty with words, a poor kinesthetic sense, a large deficit of willpower and poor creativity.

He often feels discouraged. He occasionally overindulges. He is confident under pressure. He isn't given to flights of fancy. He does not have a great aesthetic sensitivity. He is open-minded to new ideas. He is put off by authority and tradition. He dislikes contracts and regulations. He always takes a deep breath whenever he is surprised. He needs alcohol to get through the working day. He does not mind being outdoors, at least for a time. He doesn't really care about anything anymore.

A short, sturdy creature fond of drink and industry.

There were 6 arrows embedded in him.  19 stitches and as many wound dressings were used. Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, the medics of Relicshield were unable to save him :(.

Friendly Fire

Pop. 138, Spring of 322 (Year 71)

Stakud Whipfondle-Roughwhips, wife of Meng the dragon tamer, was accidentally slain by Istrath the dragon. She successfully lured a forgotten beast into the dragon corridor, but wasn't quick enough to avoid Istrath's breath :(. A memorial hall was created in Stakud's honor, serving as a reminder to the dwarves of the power and danger of the dragons under their command.

The war with the Tattooed Confederacy has ended.

The Young and the Restless

Pop. 133, Spring of 321 (Year 70)

The Mountainhome has been at war with the Tattooed Confederacy for the past 2 years. Even with their warhorses, the human forces have been decimated each time. Dishmab Shootwondered-Vesselbrain, wielder of Drumseer, successfully chased down several mounted humans, her lead mace quickly sending them to the boneyard.



There was a huge upswing in the number of marriages once the memorial to Sphalerite, Edem II, and Tirist was opened. With the tales of valor engraved on the tastefully arranged slabs, it quickly became a popular venue for marriage proposals. The memorial also led to a shake-up of the political landscape.

Edem II's widow, Solon II Anguishedpages-Claspletter, rode a wave of sympathy and was voted in as mayor soon after her husband's death. However, the former mayor, Olon II Treerooms, staged a comeback during the next term and regained his seat. This started a cycle of razor thin voter margins and trading places as mayor, until a third party candidate, Dumat Neutraloiled defeated both in the most recent election.

The Deep Forge has been a success, processing goblinite and satisfying the frequent demands of King Urist Shootwondered with ease. The second cavern, while not yet completely walled off, remains under the watchful eyes of six dragon hatchling guardians.

There has been trouble in the Dragon Den. For the past several years, Ibmat's eggs have failed to hatch. At only 177 years of age, the dragon was still well in her prime egg-laying years. She had become increasingly restless of late, reverting to semi-wild just after being placed in a cage as a precaution. She went completely wild soon after, but Meng Roughwhips, now a legendary animal trainer, quickly got her back under control. Luckily, a second adult female dragon, Mistrum Brandjade, was captured recently.

Urdim Channeltree, the Captain of the Guard, has kept the fortress's justice system running smoothly. Carrying on the family tradition, his son, the legendary soldier Urdim II, was recently promoted to Hammerer.

Whip It Good

Pop. 129, Spring of 317 (Year 66)

Construction of the magma-powered Deep Forge complex was completed, finally achieving energy independence for the fortress! Meanwhile, Nish Roughwhips tamed her first dragon. Along with her father, Meng Roughwhips, the number of Relicshield's tamed dragons has been increased to 9. The remaining 3 adult dragons Ibmat, Istrath, and Slusa have remained trained and relatively docile, but it's likely all three will always have a touch of the wild.

Good Drumming

Pop. 131, Autumn of 316 (Year 65)

The dragon hatchlings have continued to guard the second cavern effectively, burning all forgotten beasts that dare to approach. The cavern's magma pool has been tapped and construction is underway for the outpost that will house the workers of the Deep Forge.

Up on the surface, the Evils of Spray attacked again. Not content to wait for the invaders to enter the trade tunnels, the dwarves of Relicshield took the fight to them. Dishmab Shootwondered-Vesselbrain, wielder of Drumseer the artifact lead mace, led the charge, smashing goblins left and right. One of the recruit squads got separated from the main force and were quickly surrounded by triple their number. They fought valiantly, holding the goblins off until Commander Olivine arrived with reinforcements, rolling over the invaders in a tidal wave of dwarven fury.

Contemptible Loot

Pop. 131, Winter of 315 (Year 64)

Mosus II Anguishedpages was blessed by Armok, producing Drumseer the Contemptible Loot, a lead mace! Duke Phyllite bestowed the weapon upon Dishmab Vesselbrain, the first legendary macedwarf of the fortress and current 2nd place in notable kills.



Meanwhile, another forgotten beast received a warm welcome from the dragon hatchlings guarding the second cavern's entrance :D.

The Forgotten Trio

Pop. 132, Summer of 315 (Year 64)

Several children came of age this year, including Nish Roughwhips, daughter of Meng the dragon trainer. It was no surprise that she decided to follow her father's footsteps. Surely a blessing from Armok, another dragon emerged from the wilds soon after!

The Dragon Slusa Ongongxosna has come! A gigantic reptilian creature. It is magical and can breath fire. These monsters can live for thousands of years.

The dragon was lured into the trade tunnels, but a meddling goblin snatcher distracted it. The snatcher was caught in a cage trap, while the dragon stopped directly in front of another trap. The beast just stared at the captured goblin and refused to come further. The newly promoted Commander, Olivine Scalygranite tried to lure the beast closer, but the beast paid her no heed. Finally, the marksdwarf Litast Twinkledurns volunteered. Armed with the artifact chestnut crossbow, "Mountaindeclined the Heroic Evaporation," he took up position then shot a single bolt at the dragon. Slusa immediately turned from the caged goblin to attack, immediately setting off the next cage trap.

The youngest adult dragon in the fortress at 76 years of age, Slusa took easily to dragon trainer Meng's instructions, becoming expertly trained in a single session. With the initial training out of the way, Nish took over as trainer for the Mountainhome's newest dragon. With a second male in the dragon pit, the fortress could breath easier when committing the 500 year old Istrath to battle.

Meanwhile, in the caverns three forgotten beasts arrived in quick succession. After the terrible losses inflicted by Engror, the fortress was on alert.

The Forgotten Beast Oson Tostrasmaspest has come! A gigantic beakless swan. It has a pair of spindly antennae and it has a gaunt appearance. Its pale pink feathers are patchy. Beware its deadly spittle!

The Forgotten Beast Leto has come! A huge one-eyed swift. It has two short horns and it squirms and fidgets. Its teal feathers are long and sparse. Beware its poisonous vapors!

The Forgotten Beast Utes has come! A towering three-eyed ankylosaurid. It has thin wings of stretched skin and it belches and croaks. Its indigo scales are large and close-set. Beware its webs!

Oson slipped past the cave-in trap due to a terrible oversight with hatches :-[. Luckily the beast was far weaker than Engror. Oson was quickly surrounded by the squad on cavern duty and slain by the axedwarf Mosus Graniteright.

Leto was more of a challenge. By this point, several dragon hatchlings had been brought to the cavern entrance and placed behind fortifications. However, the forgotten beast's poisonous vapors seemed to confound the dragons. They refused to breathe fire and did their best to keep their distance. Perhaps Leto understood the potential for dragonfire, so it kept its distance, too. Luckily the stare-off had Leto positioned directly under the cave-in trap and the creature's fate was sealed.

The little dragons of Relicshield had no such qualms when facing Utes. Once the winged ankylosaurid came within range, the hatchlings let loose with jets of flame. Not even a corpse was left when the smoke dissipated.

http://mkv25.net/dfma/movie-2557-forgottenbeastvsdragonhatchlings

This is a well-crafted gabbro memorial to Utes.
The slab reads "In memory of Utes / Melted in The Rampage of the forgotten beast Utes in Relicshield in the year 315".

The Mountainhome and the Secret Princess

Pop. 134, Spring of 314 (Year 63)

King Urist Shootwondered declared Relicshield the new capital and Mountainhome of the Ancient Gravel! The announcement caught many dwarves by surprise, including Duke Phyllite, who had yet to prepare royal accommodations. Another surprise was the discovery that Captain Dishmab the legendary macedwarf was a princess! King Urist and Queen Thikut Shootwondered were skeptical when their daughter struck out 6 decades ago for a little known outpost far to the west. However, their pride grew as they heard tales of Dishmab's valor and the rise of Relicshield over the years. Now also the City of Dragons, the king and queen could imagine living nowhere else.

Fallen Heroes

Pop. 130, Autumn of 313 (Year 62)

Shock and dismay spread throughout the fortress when three of its mightiest soldiers fell in battle: Commander Sphalerite of the Original Seven, Tirist Earthennourishes the legendary marksdwarf, and Edem II, once the Unluckiest Hammerdwarf and the first dragon battlemaster of Relicshield.

The Forgotten Beast Engror Uktangstosbub has come! An enormous pterosaur composed of green glass. It has a pair of squat antennae and it has a gaunt appearance. Beware its webs!

Far stronger than any previous Forgotten Beast fought before, Engror rampaged through the defending squad. Somehow an iron spear was kicked up by the thundering charge, fatally cutting Tirist, while Edem II and Sphalerite were trampled (NOOOOOOOOOOO)! Istrath the dragon rushed at the pterosaur, his fury boundless at the death of his dwarven companion!

The cavern shook with the clash of the two titanic beasts while crossbow bolts flew into the fray. The battle was tense, with the pterosaur breathing webs and slamming its wings and feet into the dragon. However, Istrath rallied and with a final blast of dragon fire, the glass monster was melted down.



Duke Phyllite has commissioned a memorial to be built in honor of the three fallen soldiers, all true heroes of Relicshield :'(.

Dragon Age

Pop. 133, Spring of 313 (Year 62)

Right at the close of the previous year, the enemies of the fortress attacked both above and below. While the Evils of Spray laid siege on the surface, a frigid horror entered the second cavern.

The Forgotten Beast Uthgur has come! An enormous quadruped composed of snow. It has wings and it squirms and fidgets.

Goden II Claspletter, Relicshield's first forgotten beast slayer, kept the monster busy while her captain readied the perfect blow. With a mighty shield slam, Dishmab Vesselbrain the Holy Winnower of Fortresses broke the creature apart!





Near the surface, Commander Sphalerite led the charge against the goblin siege, with Edem II and his dragon Istrath close behind.

http://mkv25.net/dfma/movie-2556-istrathswrath



With the rise of Relicshield's dragons, a new age has dawned.

Taste of Fire

Late Autumn of 312 (Year 61)

After much debate between Duke Phyllite and Meng Roughwhips the Dragon Trainer, Relicshield fielded a dragon in battle for the first time! Edem II volunteered to be the dragon's battlemaster and led mighty Istrath forth. The Evils of Spray received their first taste of dragon fire and soon fled!

Watch Istrath in action!

Dragon Breeding

Pop. 135, Autumn of 312 (Year 61)

The duchy's dragon breeding program has succeeded! After one egg that failed to hatch after a full year, a second clutch was laid in the Summer. By Autumn, the fortress welcomed 2 more dragons!



Work continued on the largest cavern security wall to date, this one covering an area 28 across and 38 levels high. With so much attention on the dragon breeding program and the cavern walls, the odd mumblings of the brewer Tulon Dippedtowers were overlooked. He went berserk near the farm complex, which recently merged with the kindergarten.

Tulon charged at Mosus III Anguishedpages, the first 3rd generation citizen of Relicshield. He struck her twice before the axedwarf Vucar Graniteright struck him down. Not the sharpest tool in the shed, having named his axe "The Pale Hammer," Vucar has still managed to be a reliable fighter.



Duke Phyllite has urged all citizens to please report any strange activity at once and to stay vigilant even in the midst of large projects!

Run, Nish, Run!

Pop. 139, Autumn of 310 (Year 59)

The duchy's largest wall thus far was completed, far below in the second cavern. 13 across and 25 high, the construction went without a hitch. Fighting sometimes took place in the scaffolding far above the cavern floor, where dodging the wrong way could lead to a fatal fall. The soldiers on duty performed beyond expectation, and not a single life was lost blocking this portion of the second cavern.

Soon after the wall was completed, two forgotten beasts were discovered at the same time on a cliffside near the top of the massive cavern.

The Forgotten Beast Bekor has come! A huge eyeless viper. It has large mandibles and it squirms and fidgets. Beware its poisonous bite!

The Forgotten Beast Egngun has come! An enormous quadruped composed of mud. It has wings and it undulates rhythmically. Beware its poisonous gas!

Bekor was slain by the speardwarf Logem Chanceblockades, but Egngun was far more dangerous. Rather than a face-to-monstrous face confrontation, the miner Nish Anguishedpages volunteered to lure the creature into a trap. She dug a small tunnel to free the beast, though she underestimated just how fast it was. The mud monstrosity was suddenly right in front of her!

Nish took off running just as it reared back and blew a torrent of poisonous gas. The foul vapors barely missed her as she raced off with the forgotten beast hot on her heels. She stumbled past the massive pillar holding a section of the cavern above, then ran up the stairs, all while just avoiding blast after blast of fetid breath. The massive hatch slammed shut, blocking the beast below, then the nearby lever was pulled, crushing the monster under tons of stone.

Another Slayer

Pop. 141, Winter of 309 (Year 58)

The duchy's miners and masons have been hard at work walling off the second cavern when Dusak the Murky Blisters, a forgotten beast of filth and grime, attacked. It breathed great globs of frozen spittle, but the legendary soldiers of Relicshield blocked or dodged each shot. The axedwarf, Cog Slingriddles, landed the killing blow, joining Goden II as a slayer of forgotten beasts. Though the monster was vanquished, other dangers made their mark.



A chance wild fire caught one miner, Geshud Graniteright, who perished before anyone could reach him :(. Fire snake vermin from the nearby magma pool were the most likely culprits, as no fire imps were nearby. A new route to the cavern's edge was mined out, giving the pool a wide berth.

Meanwhile, near the surface, more dwarves fell into strange moods. Atis Anguishedpages died of dehydration when unable to complete her construction and the same fate seemed likely for Ilral Treerooms. Fortunately, simple advice from Laularukyrumo, a visiting scholar from the Mountainhome, helped avoid further tragedy.

Second Cavern Found!

Pop. 144, Spring of 309 (Year 58)

The second cavern complex was found 114 levels below the surface. The first cavern measures 5 levels from floor to ceiling. This one spans a staggering 69 levels, not including the underground lake which is at least 2 levels deep, and possibly more! The complex also features a downward passage and a MAGMA POOL :D. Securing this area will be a far more involved process, but the dwarves of Relicshield are up to the task!

Search Renewed for the Second Cavern

Pop. 144, Winter of 308 (Year 57)

The long-delayed expedition in search of the second fabled cavern has finally recommenced. All the old exploratory tunnels were closed, while the scaffolding used for the walls securing the first cavern were removed. An outpost with food, booze, and barracks was constructed 49 levels below the surface, along with a cave-in corridor in preparation for the dangers below. Dishmab Vesselbrain, the 2nd best warrior of the fortress has now been stationed in the Deep Outpost with her squad of legendaries, including Goden II Claspletter, slayer of Lerdi the Forgotten Beast.

New Year's Eve

Pop. 141, Spring of 306 (Year 55)

After the famine of 304, food production was overhauled. Rock nut paste, usually processed into oil and press cake, was used as a quick stop gap measure to fill the larders once the food from the elf caravan ran out. The duchy's cooks also began to experiment with other seeds as ingredients for lavish meals. Tallow, once used primarily for soap, found a place in the kitchen again, as well. Before long, a healthy surplus was regained. On New Year's Eve 305, Solon II and Edem II Claspletter welcomed Edem III into the world :D.



(Actually 1 day old, but since he was born in 305, DF states 1 year)

Famine

Pop. 137, Spring of 305 (Year 54)

A population boom caught the fortress by surprise. While babies were being born left and right, food supplies dwindled in the Winter of 304 due to poor preparation (stepped away for a LONG time and didn't adjust workflow). Edem II Claspletter and Solon II Anguishedpages-Claspletter had been trying for years to have a baby. Unfortunately, the food shortage caused Solon II to have a miscarriage :(. The dwarves of Relicshield were never as overjoyed to see the elves as they were this Spring. The timely caravan brought much needed food, preventing starvation and the widespread riots which could have resulted.

3rd Generation

Pop. 127, Spring of 303 (Year 52)

The duchy's 3rd generation is well underway!



The first child abducted from the fortress was also known as Mosus, but this auspicious birth has helped to remove the pall cast on that name. In their mid-twenties, Olin Anguishedpages and Mosus II Lanterngaze-Anguishedpages were the youngest parents of the fortress, until the birth of Onol III to Onol II Lanterngaze and Stakud II Roughwhips-Lanterngaze, at 13 years of age!

A Shoulder To Cry On

Pop. 123, Autumn of 302 (Year 51)

Recently, a few of the youngest dwarves began to throw tantrums. One in particular had a fit over the lack of clothes due to a burrow mishap. For once, Mayor Olon II Treerooms did something other than demand more shields. He sat down, let the the other dwarf cry it all out, and smoothed everything over. Burrow borders and clothing stockpiles were reviewed, and everything was put back in order.



Soon after the clothing debacle was smoothed over, another dragon appeared on the border, and a male one at that! Istrath Brandedtaxed the Wealths of Warmth slew a war grizzly while rampaging outside the fortress gates, but he was finally enticed inside where he was quickly captured. Now with a potentially fertile pair, the dwarves of Relicshield have begun to study lore on the successful breeding of dragons!

Wedding Bells

Pop. 120, Autumn of 301 (Year 50)

The dwarven vacation lodges have been a success! With fine statues, an artifact bed, and haute cuisine, marriage was just a burrow away! After dating for over 20 years, Edem II Claspletter FINALLY married his childhood sweetheart, Solon II Anguishedpages.

Half-century

Pop. 120, Summer of 301 (Year 50)

The fort celebrated its 5th decade since settlement. The merged melee and ranged squads have continued to thwart the goblins at every turn. The trade tunnels had new checkpoints installed at all 12 entrances, allowing human merchants to approach immediately without any wagons, while giving dwarven wagons full access with the flip of a single switch.

Romance has been slow to develop, especially among Relicshield's 1st generation of native born dwarves. Vacation suites are being planned to help nudge more couples towards marriage and hopefully a 2nd generation of native children.

Combo Squads

Pop. 121, Spring of 299 (Year 48)

After considerable equipment allocation and scheduling issues, the duchy's melee and ranged squads have now been combined to impressive effect. While the melee troops create an advancing shield wall, blocking enemy bolts and arrows, the ranged soldiers quickly incapacitate foes if not outright killing them. The combined barracks and archery ranges have also greatly increased training frequency, with two marksdwarves just shy of legendary status and others well on their way.



The increased mobility of ranged troops has been a great boon. For decades, wagons were barred from Relicshield due to security concerns. While those from the humans are still under consideration, this year marked the return of the full Mountainhome caravan.

Ibmat the Dragon's training has progressed well, reaching expertly trained status. Her trainer, Meng Roughwhips, happened to be the most naturally inclined to such work (thank you Dwarf Therapist attribute-occupation calculator). Even before becoming a dragon trainer, he already had the title "The Planes of Taming."

Meanwhile, Edem II, after years of stunted growth, has been making up for lost time, with 92 kills to his name :D.

Grisly Grizzlies

Pop. 122, Spring of 296 (Year 45)

Soon after Ibmat the dragon was captured, the goblins laid siege to the fortress. They were routed, but not without the death of a human diplomat. While the spoils of war were collected and corpses disposed of, a swamp titan appeared to the west.

The Swamp Titan Dab Ronzoslu Ozse Sostux has come! A gigantic eyeless scorpionfly. It has large mandibles and it has a regal bearing. Its charcoal exoskeleton is waxy. Beware its poisonous bite!

The defenders of Relicshield readied themselves, but the monster headed toward the roofed courtyard where there were several defenseless civilians. There were two openings in the roof that had been missed while making an adjacent tower! By the time the order was given to redirect the troops, the swamp titan had already descended into the courtyard. Dwarves panicked and fled in terror, however the courtyard also housed the grizzly training grounds. Six grizzlies charged at the foul monstrosity immediately.



The fighting was quick, but fierce. Surrounding the titan, the grizzlies tore into it, biting and latching on from all sides. By the time the soldiers arrived, the fell beast had already met a grisly end :D (thank you growth bug fix).



Now the cooks of Relicshield are busy making use of the 433 pieces of swamp titan meat that was left.

Trolling Trolls

Pop. 122, Spring of 296 (Year 45)

A year earlier, Kadol Meshpapers-Graniteright the hammerdwarf was caught outside alone during a siege. Her fellow soldiers rushed to her aid, but a group of trolls intercepted them right as they emerged from the fortress. While the majority of Relicshield's defenders were forced to engage the tusked monsters in battle, Captain Dishmab rushed toward the lone hammerdwarf. Second only to Commander Sphalerite in total kills, Dishmab smashed into foes with her mighty mace. Together, she and Kadol routed the goblin squad, while their compatriots decimated the trolls.

Once the siege was defeated, attention turned back to preparations for the second cavern expedition. Scaffolding was taken down from the walls securing the first cavern to regain blocks, but there were two fatal accidents. Atir Kissochre the clothier and Chief Medic Dolomite, one of the Original Seven, fell to their deaths. Scaffolding had been taken down before, one level at a time, without incident, but Duke Phyllite demanded the procedures be placed under review.

The Spring brought renewed hope in the form of Ibmat the Dragon, who was lured into the trade tunnels and captured in a cage.

Growth Spurt

Pop. 125, Autumn of 293 (Year 42)

The duchy's marksdwarves have been training with a zeal never seen before, all thanks to new training techniques from the Mountainhome.



Meanwhile, Edem II and his tiny peers have all FINALLY hit puberty, growing rapidly in size and strength. Once known as the Unluckiest Hammerdwarf, he's is now shattering limbs and crushing skulls like he always wanted.

Dwarven Geneology

Thanks to innovations in genealogy, Relicshield is currently undergoing a massive renaming* project to better track the proud lineages of its citizens. The Claspletter family was one of the first to get a standardized surname, having several of the most prominent dwarves of the fortress, including Edem II, the legendary pick-wielder and Goden II, the Forgotten Beast Slayer.



* Previous posts have been edited to reflect this change in dwarven surnames.

Goblinite Filtration & Combat Drops

Pop. 122, Spring of 291 (Year 40)

Now in its 4th decade, the fortress has undergone major changes to its military configuration and hauling infrastructure. Additional troop stations were created in the trade tunnels, with the squads closer to the hub focused on training, and the ones further out tasked with escorting visitors and providing the first line of defense.

The increase in goblin hostilities necessitated quicker handling of the spoils of war, which often took more than a season to fully clear. To that end, a new 2-route, 1-track minecart system was constructed to filter the goblinite, with pure ore deposited near the trade depot and impurities sent to the particle accelerator on the surface. The new track was Relicshield's first multilevel one and confounded the builders for quite some time. Everything came together once it was finally realized that every track ramp required a supporting wall behind it on the lower level.

While effective, word has come from the Mountainhome of a far more efficient magma-powered goblinite filtration system. Duke Phyllite has considered another mining expedition to uncover the lower caverns and magma sea, but ever since the mining-related death of his wife Cinnabar, much greater oversight has been a firm requirement. For the time being, all mining below the first cavern has been postponed, as much of the fortress's attention is on a prototype tower-to-tunnel combat drop system.

A dwarven scholar by the name of Di remarked on the ability of smaller creatures to fall from great heights with only minor injuries. Preliminary testing is now underway in Relicshield on a tower above the southwest trade tunnel, where Edem II and other tiny soldiers will enter battle by falling directly onto foes. Currently, the biggest issue is soldiers being momentarily stunned from the fall. Thus this method will not be used when facing goblins wielding blunt weapons due to the risk of fatal head strikes. However, the dwarves are cautiously optimistic on the efficacy versus other enemy types.

Ballistae & Picks

Pop. 113, Winter of 288 (Year 37)

After years of training, Relicshield's siege engineers were ready to bring the pain! 3 legendaries and 1 grandmaster rotated duties on the 3-ballista battery, giving the goblins quite a surprise :D.



Meanwhile, Edem II completed his personal quest and is now legendary in all dwarven weapons. The tiny dwarf has settled on the pick as his weapon of choice, the first soldier of the fortress to do so. When testing it out, he discovered that he could deliver a serious wound with every strike, a first for him!

Thirst

Pop. 110, Late Winter of 284 (Year 33)

The fortress was still reeling from the deaths of Edem and Nish, when a mining accident claimed the lives of Duchess Consort Cinnabar Taxeddagger, Stinthad Esteemclasp the mayor, and Sigun Vesselbrain, husband of the legendary macedwarf Dishmab. The mining expedition in search of the second fabled cavern received incomplete digging plans and a necessary stairwell was left half-done (i.e. poor overseer oversight and forgetting about my miners after using Quickfort) :(.

Stinthad and Sigun died of thirst before the rest of the fortress realized anything was amiss. A secondary tunnel was quickly mined out and Cinnabar made it to the dining hall... only to perish with a whip wine barrel in front of her.

Mystery Solved!

Pop. 113, Spring of 284 (Year 33)

The mystery of Edem II's combat performance has finally been solved. It was never noticed that all of the children born in Relicshield were quite a bit shorter than dwarves from the Mountainhome. Despite his initial preference for war hammers, Edem II tried out short swords and discovered that he was far more effective with them.



Sadly, soon after Edem II gained renewed respect from his brothers and sisters in arms, tragedy struck his family and the fortress at large. His father, Edem Claspletter, a renowned carpenter and wood cutter, was caught outside during a goblin siege along with Nish Twinkledurns the clothier.





Relicshield lost two of its most beloved citizens, but the dwarves made sure the goblins paid most dearly.

The deaths had worked the dwarven soldiers into a fever pitch. Woe to the next foe to assault the fortress! Perhaps the news of Relicshield's heightened war lust made its way to the elves, who wisely returned with words of peace, rather than beasts of battle. And so ended the Stormy Eviscerated War.

The Assault of Claws

Pop. 114, Late Summer of 283 (Year 32)

The human merchants who arrived at the fortress this year narrowly missed an elven ambush. And what an ambush it was. First, a group of war grizzlies emerged from the forest. One of the beasts gave Commander Sphalerite quite a fight! The bear's ferocious offense kept the commander off-balance far longer than any previous opponent, despite the inevitable end.



While the last of the grizzlies were struck down, the rest of the elven forces revealed themselves. No longer an ambush, it was a full-scale siege! With spear-wielding moose and camel riders, war leopards and lions, over a hundred enemies entered the fray! The battle was intense, but the dwarves remembered their training and stood their ground. Despite numerical superiority, the odds were still solidly in the dwarves' favor.



(Legends mode doesn't track mounts apparently, since the moose and camels aren't listed. The true enemy count was probably over 150. Also, the elves arrived in Late Spring, but waited out of sight until the Summer. Dastardly!)

Edem II's combat performance has remained an enigma. The weapon prowess, shield technique, and dodging ability are all there, as he proved again during this elven assault, and yet he always shies away from the killing blow. Still, he's able to engage multiple opponents and keep them occupied, so thus far, his particular quirk has mostly raised eyebrows. Stronger objections have also been stymied due to his older sister Goden II, wielder of the legendary axe known as Drencheddragons. To slander Edem II is to slander the entire Claspletter family, and among the dwarves of Relicshield, Goden II holds the singular distinction of slaying a forgotten beast.



In the meantime, the most pressing problem for Relicshield is what to do with all of the beast carcasses left after the battle. The fortress has had a food surplus for decades, so collection isn't a necessity, though the Mountainhome might appreciate a gift of exotic edibles if they can be preserved in time.

Let the Work Flow

In the third decade since the founding of Relicshield, its civilians have been just as busy as the military. Dye, clothing, food, and most importantly BOOZE, have all had their production streamlined through an esoteric dwarven technique known simply as Workflow.

The cavern, after being completely secured, has led to a textile revolution from the abundance of cave spider webs. Silk, once rarely used in garments, has now become the most common fabric in new tunics, though pig tail and rope reed fiber have remained popular for trousers and shoes.

The majority of the alpaca herd has also been moved underground. The hardy beasts have proved quite adaptable and have taken quite well to cave moss. While other grazing animals have been tried over the decades, alpacas have become the clear favorite of the Steel of Winds due to their ease of care and versatility. In fact, Relicshield has been slowly phasing out the use of all leather products other than alpaca. It should certainly simplify stock counts and equipment allocation to the marksdwarf squads.

The Unluckiest Hammerdwarf

Pop. 115, Late Autumn of 281 (Year 30)

Edem II Claspletter, once the youngest member of the army, quickly rose to the status of legendary hammerdwarf. However, his propensity for only bruising his opponents has come into question. It's been noted that he is easily moved to pity. Perhaps he never would have joined the military had it not been for the abduction of his younger brother, Mosus.

Meanwhile, it seems that the elves are not the only ones filling the recent void left by the goblin withdrawal. The kobolds of Chomin (no translation known) led a surprising assault deep into the trade tunnels, but they had the misfortune of coming across Commander Sphalerite and his squad of legendaries.

Prime Evil

Pop. 115, Late Autumn of 281 (Year 30)

After a series of goblin sieges, sometimes twice a year, the Evils of Spray pulled back from the eastern frontier. There hasn't been a goblin siege in the past two years, though surely it's only a matter of time before they lick their wounds and return. All the rage and hatred for the Steel of Winds has a surprising source. The current Prime Evil of Spray is Zefon Yellslabor... a dwarf!



Her reign began in 239 after deposing Sheka Mutedthief the Unremarkable Morsel, a demon who had ruled for over 200 years. All told, the traitorous dwarf's subjects have suffered 327 casualties, while Relicshield has lost only 6.