Several Etrarknian legions have gone for an organised ramble in Tuskamet. Caesar has promised a prize to the legion that brings back the most, or the largest, of the Orchids from Tuskamet. He issued an imperial proclamation that:

"This is in line with our green stance on environmental matters. The harvested Orchids can expect to be planted in rich soil, which my advisors tell me is to be found at the bottom of the deepest mines."

A small military force escorting a trading convoy to Menias faced hostile troops upon landing. It is understood that the cause was a breakdown in communication of the two nations involved. A spokesman for the government of Menias was reported to have said:

"There seems to have been a slight misunderstanding, but we believe the situation can be resolved peacefully. We hope that this unfortunate incident has not harmed our long term trading interests"

The recent reports of an invasion of Djaktu by Khem have turned out to be false. What appears to be happening is a rebellion in northern Djaktu, led by the Shah’s brother Alia. Lord Alia was rumoured to have been murdered by his brother when the Shah seized the throne, but it now seems likely that he fled to Khem.

Khem has denied any involvement in the civil war and treats such suggestions as nonsense. The Queen has issued a statement that no Kheman soldier has left his home, the rumours circulating are pure market gossip.

Tuskamet has been utterly defeated by Etrarknia. Sad coffles of enslaved Orchids are moving to Trark, where, according to the proclamation of Caesar himself, they will work in the mines until they die

Hybrids of Varna, will you permit this monstrous destruction? Churnor Nock, do you not care that you can no longer access Rukhs for your unique flying cavalry?

It was obvious to all that Tuskamet was weak, ripe to be gobbled up by the first greedy nation that came by, but we at the VARNA TIMES were convinced that other nations would rally round to help.

It has now been definitely established that the force that invaded Menias last quarter came from Kamos, and not Oraset, as seemed more likely at first.

The civil war in Djaktu is drawing to a close with the old Shah’s position looking increasingly bleak. The population is flocking to the banner of Shah Alia. The seas around Djaktu could soon be full of sacks, as the winners take the traditional action.