The Waldopolis Chronicle

Overview:

The Waldopolis Chronicle is one of the most well-known newspapers Waldonia, published by the Waldonian Media Group. Originally established in 1842 as a broadsheet, it quickly rose to prominence as the most popular newspaper in the region, known for its in-depth reporting and comprehensive coverage of Waldonian affairs. For decades, it maintained a reputation for quality journalism, breaking major stories like the Noir Wisteria murder and the Womblegate scandal, which rocked the political landscape and led to widespread public outrage.

Recent History:

However, in recent years, the Waldopolis Chronicle faced declining circulation and financial difficulties, struggling to adapt to the changing media landscape. In 2023, following a series of vicious smear attacks against him, Master Devlin ordered Widdle Frunkut to launch a brutal assault on the Chronicle office. The attack resulted in the building being set on fire, and tragically, Toby Hunter, the paper's star reporter, was murdered. The incident plunged the newsroom into chaos, with Hunter's death marking one of the darkest chapters in the paper’s history.

On the brink of closure, the paper was dramatically revitalized when Harris Travers, a charismatic but inexperienced figure with no prior background in journalism or the newspaper industry, managed to smooth-talk his way into the role of Editor-in-Chief.

Under Travers' leadership, the Chronicle underwent a drastic transformation, shifting from a respected broadsheet to a sensational tabloid. The paper now thrives on provocative headlines, shameless celebrity gossip, and its notorious "Chronicle Page 3 Girls"— topless models who grace numerous pages of the paper. The paper’s content has become a mix of scandal, entertainment, and eye-catching visuals, which, despite alienating some of its traditional readership, has successfully revitalized its circulation.

When challenged on *WBC's Newsnight* about the accusations that he had sullied the beloved Chronicle, Harris Travers was unapologetic. "The critics are speaking out of turn," Travers remarked candidly. "We're giving the public excactly what they want, which is reflected in the recent spike in sales. You should be thanking me—Mr. Travers, National Treasure—for improving the paper... More than that, I saved the newspaper! In fact, I’ll tell everyone that tomorrow. Put it on the front page and they're gonna like it!"

True to his word, the next day, the *Chronicle* bumped coverage of an airship crash that killed twelve people to page four in order to make room for a full front page cartoon illustration of Travers, with the headline: *National Treasure Saves Newspaper!*

Under Travers' stewardship, the Chronicle broke major stories despite considerable pressure from the government, notably the missing £30 million taxpayer money scandal and the ensuing coverup. It was also one of the few major outlets to report on the truth behind vampire crimes during the Vampire Crisis, which led to legal repercussions for Travers, who was charged with Vampirophobia. However, following his not guilty verdict, Travers fled to avoid a civil suit, during which Widdle Frunkut, posing as Travers, resigned and placed himself (as reporter Wally Walchak) in charge as editor.

Since then, Travers became president, taking Ermintrude and Master Devlin into his administration. Officially, Wally Walchak remains editor-in-chief, but he quickly grew bored and left Brian Cavendish to act as editor. Continuing to take a keen and protective interest in the paper, President Travers granted Cavendish his approval on two conditions: 1. His caricature would remain prominently displayed on the Waldopolis Chronicle banner, and 2. The Chronicle Girls would continue as a central feature of the paper.

Notable Staff:

• Harris Travers: Former Editor-in-Chief: The controversial leader behind the Chronicle's transformation, Travers was known for his bold, often reckless editorial decisions. His tenure was marked by sensationalist tactics that drastically shifted the paper's identity. While he was praised for revitalizing the Chronicle's circulation, his approach alienated many traditional readers and drew significant criticism, particularly for undermining journalistic integrity. Travers' impact on the paper remains undeniable, even as his leadership ended in 2024.


• Master Devlin: Former Deputy Editor: The Master, who reluctantly oversaw daily operations under Travers’ unconventional leadership.


• Wally Walchak: Editor-in-Chief: A plucky star reporter for the Chronicle, Walchak is infamous for his unscrupulous methods and relentless pursuit of outrageous stories. Known for bending the truth and embracing sensationalism, he will stop at nothing to get the scoop, often going to extreme lengths to fabricate headlines. His fearless approach and morally dubious tactics make him both a standout reporter and a source of controversy. Having used trickery to usurp Travers, Walchak is officially the current Editor-in-Chief, though he quickly grew bored and embarked on another caper.


• Brian "Kyle" Cavendish: Acting Editor-in-Chief: A journalist nicknamed "Kyle" by Harris Travers, Cavendish often grew frustrated by the Chronicle’s chaotic newsroom and the shift from serious journalism to sensational stories. Currently acting Editor-in-Chief, he has made a push for more serious news coverage while still respecting Travers' playful identity for the paper.


• Ermintrude Maine-Anjou: Former Political Columnist and Chronicle Girl: Ermintrude balanced her role as a political writer with her appearances as a popular "Chronicle Girl."


• Dr. Linda Shawn: Agony Aunt and Chronicle Girl: A certified therapist offering advice in her column while also contributing to the "Chronicle Girls" section.


• Jeremy Kyle: Columnist: Known for his brash commentary and no-nonsense style, Kyle’s column is one of the most read sections of the paper.


• Debbie Donnington: Art Director and Chronicle Girl: Responsible for the paper's provocative visual style, Debbie is also a regular feature as a 'Chronicle Girl' and has the honour of being the first.


• Toby Hunter: Originally from the Minneapolis Star, Toby Hunter became a household name in Waldonia when she joined the Chronicle. Known for her passionate advocacy of progressive politics, she was fiercely critical of the conservative establishment, particularly the Masters Council and Master Devlin. Her bold and unapologetic stance made her both a revered and controversial figure. Hunter was mauled and decapitated by the goblin, Widdle Frunkut, in 2023, marking a dark and violent chapter in the paper's history.

The 'Chronicle Page 3 Girls

The "Chronicle Girls" are a recent and notable feature of the Waldopolis Chronicle, blending glamour and sensationalism. These strikingly beautiful women are featured topless on several pages in each issue, capturing readers' attention and significantly boosting sales. Although some critics argue that this emphasis on visual appeal detracts from serious journalism, Harris Travers' approach has proven largely successful. The Chronicle Girls have become a popular and profitable aspect of the newspaper, reflecting a strong public interest in celebrity culture and entertainment. Notable Chronicle Page 3 Girls include Ermintrude Maine-Anjou, Dr. Linda Shawn, Debbie Donnington, Vanessa Voss, Chantelle Devereux, Tiffany Summers, Hilda Zimmermann, Greta Müller and Helen Thornton.

Reputation:

The Waldopolis Chronicle has evolved from a prestigious newspaper to a sensational tabloid, with its reputation now resting on its ability to entertain rather than inform. Despite criticism, it remains one of the most widely read publications in Waldonia.