Scholars Claim Empire "Getting Smaller"

JADE GARDENS - Old Noble scholars meeting at the Dancing Duchess Tavern in the Seamel township of Jade Gardens for their annual event of sharing profound knowledge of a particular subject are said to have put forth a startling theory - namely, that the Empire is getting smaller.

The scholars cited numerous examples of locations that "used to exist" but that they have been unable to find in recent weeks. One scholar, for example, stated that he just "couldn't find" Southwatch's famous Red Claw Tavern during a recent visit to the southern Mikin township.

Another cited his confusion at being unable to locate a mercantile in Wedgecrest that sold fine pipeweed that he was fond of, and then being exceptionally vexed when he then couldn't find his favorite taphouse in the very same city, which he was "sure" he'd frequented just a week before.

However, these theories were generally taken with a pinch of salt, and most other Nobles who heard of such scholarly theories dismissed such notions as the crazed rambling of old men who had too much time on their hands and too much ale in their body.

Some Freelanders were even heard to wonder if the old scholars had simply become senile in their old age, and if they'd just "forgot" where such establishments were.

(Oh no! The fourth wall! Some Leap Year-come-FH2 related silliness for your entertainment.) :D