Attention, citizens of Autumngrove and all across Druecia.
This is an urgent message.
Just last night, the Kingdom of Honos was attacked in a combined assault by the terrorist group Cattivus Will and the self-proclaimed god Suave.
The King of Honos had recently set out a bounty for Suave, and Druecia’s finest successfully located and brought him back to Honos, where he was to stand trial before the crown.
We now bring you the King’s official statement:
“What transpired last night can only be described as hell itself.
I can only blame myself for what happened.
I wished to show the world that Suave, this false god, is not something we should fear — to make an example of him, to show the might that we humans possess.
Let me be clear: humanity is resilient. The people of Honos are the strongest in the world.
We will rebuild and fight back twice as hard as we always have throughout our history.
But I made a miscalculation. I cannot let my pride get in the way. I put lives in danger by underestimating an enemy, and the lives that were lost.
That blood is on my hands.
I was played. Cattivu's Will and Suave clearly planned to be captured. They were the ones trying to make an example of us.
The greater monster worm was nearly defeated at the hands of the Honos army, but Suave swooped in at the last moment for the final strike. It was a complete mockery.
He disappeared immediately after.
I have failed as the King of Honos. I have failed completely.
I wish to serve the rest of my life making up for the mistakes I have made.
This is why I will remain in Honos.
I will be giving up my right as the next Emperor of Druecia. My priorities must remain here, with my people.
Lastly, I will say this: to my dying breath, I will personally see the fall of Cattivu's Will, The False God Suave, and The Ashen Maw.
There is no greater threat to the world than them.”
In addition to the King’s statement, he has awarded Tucker Glindley the Honos Medal of Honor and Bravery for saving the King’s life and the lives of dozens of others
during the horrific attack.
His heroism should be admired and serve as something for all of us to strive toward.
The King of Honos had long been expected — and was the most popular candidate — to take the position of Emperor of Druecia following the reign of the Queen.
Now, that role falls upon Reginald Moon, next in line to the Imperial succession.
To those listening who are afraid for the times ahead, I say this on a personal note:
It is okay to be scared.
But be fierce as well.
We Druecians have faced foes far more powerful than ourselves.
Our very livelihoods were built upon the defiance of a single figure who sought the destruction of the gods themselves.
Let the Soul King stand as a reminder that no enemy is too strong to defeat.
In the wake of last night’s terrorist attack, every kingdom in Druecia has pledged its military might under the direct command of the Empress, united against Cattivu's Will.
In other news, the expeditions to Yeen and the Southern Continent have concluded.
The winning group of adventurers has chosen to remain anonymous, but they have declared that the newly discovered southern continent will be named Valconia.
Citizens of Druecia — remain vigilant.
We will not bow to fear, nor yield to false gods.
Together, under the Crown and the Empress, we endure.
For the realm. For the safety of all. For the truth enduring.