The Lampas Daily Bulletin

The highly anticipated Royal Flower Dance opened its doors this evening at the Grand Ballroom right in the heart of Lampas, uniting both Old and New in what was meant to be a celebration of life, love, and and unity on the island. Guests were greeted by a display of falling petals, live music, and a luxury buffet, completed with a centerpiece made to honor Her Highness, The Empress of Elandria.

Couples old and new alike were seen dancing and mingling quietly under candlelight, while others ventured to the dance floor to join the livelier festivities. Batala, the new resident 'Harbinger' of The Wavemother Kra'a, was also seen in attendance, decorated in colorful coral. The golem was seen dancing along with the crowd, leading a conga line and showing off the latest addition to their dance repertoire. Members of the local Lampas Ratpack drew many eyes with their unique flower formation and attire, leaving everyone in high spirits after their recent court case fiasco. Local businessman Conrad Moneyhill and Tourism Director Zigfried were also seen in attendance, maintaining a low profile amidst rumors and pending investigations.

The faction leaders then gathered the crowd for a speech to herald the occasion, citing recent achievements, struggles, and much-needed motivation for their respective folk. As the crowds began to disperse towards the end, a woman remained center stage. Daisy - a beloved resident of Old Lampas and wife to Captain Stormwave - revealed her true identity as The Empress of Elandria, Ruler of the Empire, Her Highness Beatrix. The display of her majesty's absolute power was followed by a shockwave that rocked the city, bringing all in witness to their knees. In a chilling display, the Empress then addressed disappointment in the Royal Navy's operations, firing three consecutive shots at Admiral Condoriano after commanding him to surrender her his gun. Tourism Director Zigfried was also given a verdict, stripped of his title and prestige to serve as a lesson for treachery.

While the shock and scandal lingered, panic soon erupted in the streets as word of the rising tide erupted across the city. Batala, beloved herald of The Wavemother, had ceased to move due to the influence of the Empress' magic, drawing the ire of sea and sky. Rain poured relentlessly as the streets of Old Lampas began to flood, while the Lampas Marine Institute began to rapidly submerge in water. An emergency evacuation was launched across the city, uniting every capable hand in holding the tides and ensuring the safety of all lives. The Faith were next to witness The Mother's wrath as the 'Eye' in the Mother's Grotto crumbled and shattered into liquid fire - Kra'a shedding furious tears at what seemed to be the loss of her child Batala.

Boats, planes and flying contraptions all served as a means of escape as thousands waited the flood to pass. Among those who remained were researchers and faithful followers attempting to 'return' the unconscious Batala back into the sea, praying for mercy. After grueling hours of struggle and chaos, the skies and seas returned to it's ways, and citizens gradually returned to their homes. The L.M.I. has taken responsibility for watching Batala's condition as researchers race to solve the mystery.

The city remains on high alert. All citizens are encouraged to avoid low areas at this time.