Elder Gnurfwick has been exposed as a gnome spy, his true identity hidden for years beneath a cunning disguise and a suspiciously large hat. The Goblin Council of Elders confirmed the accusations after a thorough investigation and a few frantic consultations with the Oracle, and acted at once.
The elders summoned an eldritch abomination from the depths of the underworld. The creature, all ectoplasm-dripping tentacles and glowing green eyes, wrapped Gnurfwick in its slimy embrace and dragged him, screaming, into the abyss.
The remaining elders, their robes stained with ectoplasmic residue, then addressed the stunned public. "Gnurfwick's treachery has been exposed," said Elder Gnarltooth, trembling with rage. "He betrayed our trust, compromised our secrets and violated the sacred oath of goblinhood. His fate is a just one."
Asked about the vacant seat, the elders announced they would not fill it and would return to a four-member council.
"We have learned our lesson," said Elder Fungella. "Sometimes less is more. Four elders are easier to manage, less prone to infighting and far less likely to be infiltrated by gnome spies."
Some goblins mourn the elder they thought they knew. Others are celebrating the Council's decisive action. The four remaining elders have promised to scrutinize every new face and double-check every "gn" sound, though not, so far, to buy a lock for the council chamber door.
