As for Layonara not feeling "dark", there is plenty of oppression taking place:
- Rael, the enemy of dwarves everywhere, has risen from the Under places, invaded a sovereign land, oppressed its people, and there is seemingly nothing to be done to move him.
- Fisterion has partially razed Leringard and threatens to do so again to other cities.
- Another dragon has raised its scaly head; who knows what trouble may come from that.
- The Dragon Stealers seem to be steamrolling across Belinara. They've taken over Kuhl, have amassed this huge force from who-knows-where, and are about to board the fleet at Arnax and continue their steamrolling on Dregar and/or Mistone.
- The Hated One (Milara) still appears from time to time to cause trouble in Alindor; there is even talk of him trying to attain godhood.
However, unless you have bought into any of these situations (and others), unless your character cares about what is going on and is worried about these events, then things are the proverbial bunch of roses.
These events aren't day-to-day dark and gloomy (primarily because they require DM intervention to interact with), but Layonara is certainly not a happy place.
I'm actually feeling quite threatened by this immense darkness of evil, and certainly feel underdoggish.
Regards,
Script Wrecked.
PS. Have you tried poison since this change was made? A certain assassin was pleasantly surprised recently after she was reminded that things have been adjusted and tried it.