No, the world is not seeing a rapid increase in the birth rate of these ill-tempered beasties, but the truth may quite possibly be even worse! It seems that natural insects such as lice, ticks and fleas that usually die out in the winter cold have found all the warmth and shelter they need to flourish in the Minotaur Isles of Mithas and Kothas. That's right, the insect infestation is in the fur of the lovable Minotaurs themselves. This has already strained Public Relations between the Minotaur Empire and the Human Nations. One such incident was reported yesterday in Palanthas when an infested Minotaur was attacked on his way to meet his comrades by a mob wielding rolled up newspapers (presumably to beat the little buggers off of him). Several casualties have been reported and the Minotaur was found innocent of charges on the claim of self-defense, however the accused was charged a fine of 500 steel and requested to take a bath.
A report reached our office just hours before print all the way from the Plains of Dust. The Arch Magi Raistlin Majere has been spotted by a family of settlers. When interviewed, Dalian Argross gave this recollection of the meeting, "Well, thar I was, jus' standin' thar skinin' a pig fer dinner when this mage jus' ups and walks right up ta me, good an well as ya please. I knew he musta been a mage 'cus he been warin' them black robes an' carryin' alla them pouches on him's belt. I jus' give him the onces over an I noticed, Bob's-yer-Uncle he had them hourglass eyeballs and that coppery-gold skin! I ain't no chronicler or bard but e'en I heard tales 'bout the Great Raistlin! Than I noticed th' staff he be carryin' and that done did it fer me. I says good evenin' an' if yer hungry you's cen have my pig but take it an be on with yas! I don't need no magiks on me no thank ya, sirs. Funny bout that, though... he was a might bit shorter than I'd thought he be.. I mean, I'm not no taller 'en four three meself an Raistlin 'ere was least a good foot less..... pointy ears too.." On news of this both scholars and mages were sent out to gather all information possible on the infamous mage. The Wizards Council is still skeptical on the matter.
Reports of military forces gathering in Throtl's borders have been confirmed. Rumors have been circulating that the gathered forces in Throtl are incorporating Gnomish Gadgetry in the battle plans. When asked about this rumor, one young Solamnic Knight simply replied, "I hope it is true. Saves us the work of killing them when they kill themselves." Look for more on this as word reaches us!
Officials in Hylo have released an urgent press statement! It seems that the Mayor of the town of Lookit!, Kerwill Cedarwit has been missing now for almost three months! According to his family, he was last seen near the Duntollik Plains where they had camped for the night before donning their costumes as is the Kender ritual for Autumn Fest. Cedarwit's family has no idea what the costume looks like, for Kerwill had wanted to surprise them with it. What they do know is that it involves a black robe and a staff (as found out by the family through stealthful peeking prior to the incident). Kerwill himself said that the costume would be truly magical. If anyone has seen Kerwill or is holding on to him for safekeeping, please contact the Hylo Missing Persons Bureau.