The Great Alliance has been brought to its knees. The order that the world has known for so many years is now a scorched ruin, and the land of Alria has descended into total chaos. Formed over two centuries ago by the greatest powers of the age, the Great Alliance ensured a period of relative peace and prosperity. But the peace makes men weak, soft and unobservant. Few were watching for the return of darkness, and those few that were watching the shadows were unable to rouse the Alliance from its slumber in time to defend itself against the tide of darkness that tore across the land, butchering and destroying all that stood before it till there was barely anything remaining.

With the Alliance in tatters, the few remaining nations of the world, in the far-flung corner of the land, must somehow hold their borders against both greedy and war-hungry neighbours, and the Great Shadow that obliterated the greatest alliance this world has ever known.

The land is a tinderbox of conflicted interests and beliefs, all that it needs is a spark to set the whole thing ablaze. War will come to this land, a terrible time of suffering is approaching, and battle lines are being drawn.



MAP KEY

Meanwhile!

Gaz was sitting in his nice fine golden chair. made from solid gold. or something. Gaz was in possibly the most fanciest room possible. the room was almost completely slient. except for a Ork chained to a wall. the Ork was simply staring at the ground in defeat. mumbling on about the "Fall of the ork tribe" or "stupid green gobbos".

Gaz sat...and he did nothing. he stared at the door. he stared at the ground and at the wall. their was simply nothing to do. but Gaz was okay with that...okay he wasn't. he was bored out of his mind. he wanted stuff to happen. he wanted to party, so he lifted his head and yelled out in a shriek

Oi slaves. bring me to da bestest casino in all gobolia!. a scared looking Servant walked through the door. wearing a crappy black tuxedo the Servant sliently mumbled. and then his voice was overpowered by Gaz's Oi speak up ya fockin' wankah! and the servant took a step back, replying A-all t-the cas-inos are full boss!

Gaz laughed his ass off.

Are ye kidding?. Their's a Casino on every street!. the Servant told Gaz to come over. and Gaz saw that the street's were a sea of Green goblins. literally. their were goblins everywhere like a maze. but a maze full of water. but instead of water it was goblins. that's how much their was.

But Gaz had a idea. he had a plan to change this. he sent Diplomats all the way over to the Iastuf Republic. Bripiak. Iparis. and even the Empire of Ubalri and the Tribes of lagosami

each diplomat pretty much had a entire party crew with him. with Clowns and Jugglers and all sorts of entertainer's all on their way, to give those Nation's the time of their life. and get them so drunk that they agree to give up a few provinces or two!. Gaz laughed manically as his plan went underway. and just incase he ordered his general's to move atleast 100 Units of Archers and Warrior's to each province

Alec Bredain, Sindar Bredain, Eléane Bredain, Leana Broadwalk
Province 58, Al’Gruin.

Al’Gruin has for many years now been a school of intellect and the higher studies of magic. But now, it had gained another role. That of headquarters of something Leana Broadwalk did not yet know of. Never the less, there were tents being pulled up around the castle for over a fortnight now. The Ruin King had just arrived, and he quickly marched up his ancient tower to his old office. Cobwebs were everywhere, but never the less, Alec Bredain felt happy to be once again where he belonged. It was a good place to start another chapter of New Engelica. Sindar, Eléane and Leana entered the old office.

“Sindar. You have long expected this. Your orders are simple. Head south. Whatever realm or wilderness lays there, I would want word of and with it. If you make contact, remember what I told you. Do not hesitate to demonstrate how powerful our mages are.” He told his son, with a far more grim voice that reminded Miss Broadwalk of his days as a war leader. He handed Sindar a scroll with the details of his mission. Then he turned to his daughter: “Eléane. Scout towards the east. Take a few light riders with you. Try to stay unnoticed and carry equipment without New Engelica’s emblem.” “Yes father.” Was her only response. Thus both children made towards the camp of tents set up just outside of the walls. “Wanting to die as a conqueror?” asked Miss Broadwalk. “Not a conqueror, Leana. I merely wish to die as a father who provided for his children.”

"Your holiness, may I, present to you today's orders of business?" the timid advisor scooted across the throne room to the throne of the great Tsar Corosphyski, his demure nerverous yet he held the the ledger with firm pride.

"Very well, please leave it here and I shall get to it." the Tsar boomed with his mighty voice as the advisor scampered off.

Looking at both the ledger and his current pile of work, he knew what he was to do. Earlier he had been number crunching with the minister of coin to determine this season's tax rates and surplus money. He needed to know as he planned out gifts for some of the other nations in exchange for an alliance, or simply better relations. He would send each diplomat with exactly 250 pieces of Novgorod gold, two months worth of fine grain and a purebred, Vladstok Stag from the Vladstock Order which the army's female Stag Riders mounted. Each was to be guarded by a full unit of Bear Knights and Mountain Guards, to both escort the diplomats and as a small sign of Imperial power.

The entire purpose of these gifts were to try and bring the people of the north together an end the warmongering Pualirian Empire. The HNI could not be the only nation worried about its borders being met but armies of troops, poised to strike. It would also be the driving force for more recruitment of loyal, pious men and women into the army. The Tsar's eldest son, Vulad had already made his way to the border of the holy imperium and the Pualirians, he had to ensure some degree of safety for his son.

The next pressing matter at hand was national research. Several institutes and universities had come to his throne to wish for his support in matters of importance, all of them claiming their own research was of the highest importance. After some head bashing (both politically and physically), the Tsar managed to get all of them working on some naval ideas, namely increasing hold capacity and ship size. Perhaps after that, more modernizations would take place and with those fancy steam engines and ironclads nations boasted about. But then there was also the military to look after... oh well, seems like his ground forces would have to wait a bit. The knightly orders should still be able to manage themselves however.

"M'lord, the Union is still pushing onto the lands of the Kebriw. We must do something to help those poor people," Ambassador Despond Filtrich said in the presence of his dictator. "For once I agree, not that I hold simpathy for the Kebriw. It is mainly that the Union could use that island as a good staging point against us if they wish for that," Ambassador Atticus Lif stated, looking at Despond. It seemed that everybody was in agreement on what was to happen within the Sawlian Confedaracy. It was not a decision to be made lightly either because this could go badly if they made the wrong choice.

"It seems that we are all in agreement then. We shall declare war upon the union and move forth in a surprise attack," Dictator Scorpio said before taking a stand. He would not do a land invasion unless absolutely needed, however. "I want more ships to be built and I want them better! Do not disappoint me!," Scorpio ordered, sending both ambassadors to go and do their jobs. One being sent to the Kepriw to send the message that they would join the war on their side if they agreed to an alliance. The other went to go and rally more ships for the Sawlian navy.

The audience chamber of the Council of Five was a rather interesting affair. Marble that had been called forth from the earth itself by Goblin shamans and shaped by their magics made up the floor, walls and roof of the chamber but those entering the room would never get to see the latter two. A series of torches lit up a path from the door to the middle of the chamber, but the light didn't travel far enough to see the walls or ceiling. Footsteps sounded out from where feet touched the marble floor but no echo returned... a fact that had unnerved more than one person to stand before the council.

The center of the room was lit up to show a large, black stone table surrounded by a semi circle of thrones made out of the same black stone. In the two seats that would have been closest to where a subject wishing for the councils attention sat two of the greatest goblin shamans of the age, dressed in the trappings of their station while looking disturbed by the news that they had just heard. Sitting besides them were two humanoid skeletons that radiated dark magical power while dressed in wealthy if seemingly worn robes, one purple the other gold, the founders of Tushienia itself almost two hundred years ago. At the head of the table sat a goblin skeleton dressed in a royal red dress, the first goblin lich to ascend to the council and the official tied breaker when the council disagreed. While their skulls wore their fixed grins, the air in the chamber was tense and uneasy.

Finally, it was the goblin shaman Tork that spoke first. "Something wicked this way comes."

"Indeed." Answered Vaewith the Renovator from the head of the table, her hands coming up to tap her chin in thought. "There is no denying it. What should our course of action be?"

There was a thoughtful silence before the second shaman Uzereda Nightshade spoke up at last. "Well clearly our first course of action should be the recruitment and training of more troops. Mundane ones. Our magic is strong but having a wall of armor and steel between our mages and the enemy is always a good thing."

"Very true." Rodrim Payne agreed before offering his own advice on the matter "We should also send word to our neighbors in warning of the coming darkness so that they might make preparations themselves."

Vaewith turned to look at Rodrim, a questioning light in her eyes as she asked "Why? Do you think that they will believe us?"

The answer did not come from Rodrim himself, but from Nuyor the Doctor. "Not really no but that matters little in the long run. Even if they merely start their military build up because we are building up our own forces that will still serve our purposes when this threat revels itself to the world. This would also be a good chance to finally establish trade agreements and a defensive pact with Duringis. No harm in us strengthening our position in the world while preparing ourselves after all."

The meeting lasted a little while longer, but soon a plan of action was established and word was sent to those who needed to know in order to get them into motion.

Forgelord Mylori Firehammer stopped mid-swing, hammer aloft, as the sickly sweet odour of death cut through the acrid smell of the forge. Turning, and lowering the hammer as he did so, Mylori saw the figure of the Warlock Thro'Gan. The Dwarf met the Orc’s eyes and barely suppressed a shudder, he’d never gotten used to the eyes. Eyes as black as midnight, Mylori remembered the old wives saying and grimaced under his heavy forge mask, if the eyes really were a window to the soul then the Warlocks had souls as black as they come.
Mylori raised the forge mask as the Warlock began to speak in the hushed, rattling whisper that they all possessed.

“There is a darkness coming from the East, one beyond our control. You are needed at the council chambers to discuss our future plans”

With that, the Warlock turned and was gone. Wiping the sweat from his brow, Mylori looked after the figure and grimaced. When the Orcs had first come, he had been one of the few of them to oppose their offer. But he had been outvoted by his comrades, and been forced to accept the decision. Now these mysterious creatures wandered through every city of the Broken Empire, spreading the foul stench of their unholy craft.

But Mylori couldn’t blame his countrymen. They had been shattered by enemies from all around, beaten bloody and almost wiped from existence. So these Orc’s, with their immense power and grand promises had easily persuaded the Dwarves to agree to their offer; to forge monstrous metal machines and fight alongside the Orc’s. And they had won, Mylori had seen first-hand the sheer power that the Warlocks boasted, as they raised the very dead themselves to fight for them. And the Orc Warriors, or Lichguard as they called themselves, were so brutal and lethal in battle that Mylori couldn’t help but be impressed. And yet now this desperate agreement had become an alliance, but the Forgelord couldn’t help but ask himself, what did the Orc’s gain, and why did they come to the Dwarves aid at all?

Shrugging off his doubts for the time being, Mylori laid down his hammer and strode towards the forges grand doors before hesitating for a moment, and turning back, grabbing his Great Ace from where he had hung it, before turning to leave again. As he walked down the chiselled corridors of the Broken Empires capital, Yutial, Mylori couldn’t help but smile. The city was a wonder of dwarven engineering and workmanship, a relic from when the Empire was glorious and triumphant. Reaching the Council Chamber, the two Hammerbearers that flanked the doors at all time bowed their heads to the Forgelord and pushed the ornate doors open for him.

Stepping through into the chamber itself, Mylori saw that the other two Forgelords, Tavirin Blackstone and Narrik Deadheart, had already arrived. Nodding his head towards Tavirin, Mylori and Narrik shared a cold look before the final Forgelord to arrive took his seat. Narrik, far more so than either of the other Forgelords, had embraced the Orcs and their black magic, changing his name and becoming fascinated in what the Warlocks were capable of. There were hushed whispers that the Dwarf was practicing necromancy himself, and Mylori always looked deep into his eyes when the two met, looking for any flecks of black.

Sitting across from the three Dwarves, the three Warlocks stood silently and still, their black eyes unblinking. Mylori looked at the three of them, and remembered when they had first come to the Dwarves, in the very same chamber they stood in now. It was Thro'Gan who spoke first, exposing the curved fangs that still put Mylori on edge, his hand subconsciously gripping the handle of his Great Axe.

“There is a presence in the East. The weak nations of the East will not stop it, we must strengthen our border and brace ourselves”

Mylori couldn’t contain his thoughts any longer, his voice booming around the chamber.

“How do you know of this new threat?”

To his surprise, it wasn’t Thro'Gan that answered him, instead Ronaz'Thunk slowly turned to face the Dwarf and replied, his voice rasping and ragged.

“It is darkness; we can sense the black magic that the leader of this army possesses. It is a level of necromancy that we have not seen in centuries. Whispers of it infect the very land, your people are too blind to see it.”

In an instant Mylori was on his feet, his Great Axe out and gripped in his hands as his eyes glared at the Warlock, only for another’s hand to grab his shoulder.

Turning, ready to fight, Mylori met eyes with Tavirin and his shoulders dropped, the Great Axe lowering in his hands as the other Forgelord spoke.

“Mylori, control your anger, lest it control you. We must trust the warlocks and prepare for the coming war”

Mylori hesitated for a moment, but he had known Tavirin for near all of his life, and knew that the older Dwarf had been a Forgelord before Mylori had even been born, and was far wiser than he. What he refused to admit to himself was that he doubted whether he could hope to win against just one Warlock, let alone all three together. Returning to his seat, Mylori sat in silence as the other members of the Councils made plans for the future of the Broken Empire.

Garrison


 
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The Kingdom of Zakol

Hakurei, Capital of Zakol - Beast Pens
In amongst the growls, thumping & banging of the kragfangs in their stalls, the beast master enters carrying slabs of raw meat in a metallic create as he start walking up to each stall in the pen. "Right you lot settle down!, dinner time!" the beast master unceremoniously walks along lobbing a cutlet over each stall door which is followed by the beasts loud snorting & eating sounds. The beast master entered the next adjoining section of the pens when he noticed another ogre roughly petting one of the kragfangs just outside of its stall the beast snorting & licking the ogre back out of affection "you're an ugly bastard ain't ya!, oh yes you are!" the ogre started scratching the beasts neck under its chin like a human would a dog the beast still enjoying it "Whoo'ze a good lil'monster!".

The beast-master sighed as he continued his job while making his way over "You're here again Loxa?, i wish you wouldn't treat these things like a pet, they're for battle!", The Beast roars at the beast-master & starts growling at him Loxa smiles as she looks back up at the beast-master "See he thinks your threatening his loving owner, better be careful master-Igug!". The beast-master chuckles to himself "I guess there's some merit in treating them occasionally..." Loxa lead the kragfang back into its stall while he spoke, When Igug approached Loxa took two cutlets of meat from the create & threw them over the stall she was next to & before Igug could say anything Loxa winked & said "occasional treat!". Igug finished feeding the beasts in the section and while heading to the next he turned back "Isn't there a meeting at the palace?" Loxa waved one hand in the air as she was walking away towards the exit "Yea, yea i know its starting soon gonna head there now!, Later'z Igug!, & save some of that meat for the beasts!", as the door was shutting behind her Igug shouted back "Aye sure!, these things eat better then i do!".

N.Zakol - North-east boarder - Ogre-side of the DMZ (18,19)
Along the wooden makeshift boarder fortress wall overlooking the DMZ stood 500 Heavy Ogre infantry fully equipped in their armor & gear, their spacing along the wall intermittently interrupted by the additionally garrisoned 100 Javelin Ogres placed between their ranks, which where backed up by a war magi & 20 of his magi subordinates, & several trebuchets positioned behind them along the line. In the distance on the Dwarven side of the DMZ they could see the dwarf infantry mirroring them in a display of their own forces, how many of them where just magical illusions has become a local betting game between some of the grunts, leaving the war-magi trying to figure out how they intend to find out who's won the bet...

"Anything?" The human War-magi almost leaped in surprise from the deep booming voice behind him as he spun on the spot to face the Ogre commander "S-still nothing general Mokur sir!, it's just the usual staring contest..." Volaq Mokur silently stared into the distance inspecting the boarder before he spoke "Right, Ave'some of our boy'z do marching drillz in full view of them dwarfs, to get their blood movin, then have them swap shift with the other half to do the same". The Human War-magi nodded in acknowledgement "sir did you remember to send off today report?". Mokur nodded "Yea sent, three just so i A'd somethin to do writing each one out..." the general sighed as he turned to walk away "I'm gonna go do a stock-take of the supplies, again... i guess..." slowly wandering back into the camp.

Hakurei, Capital of Zakol - Palace barracks, Training-field
Off duty palace ogre guards stood around the outskirts of the training field cheering for the combatants, the Elite hellfire banshees where all trying to take down one fighter in a friendly competition, but most of them had opted out conceding defeat by now. three charged the solo defender who sucker punched the closest hellfire stunning them long enough to pick them up and throw them towards the second closest knocking her down, the third managed to close the distance powerfully lunging at the opponent and landing several hits on their torso before they got pushed back, realizing only to late her arm was being held as she was quickly pulled back towards her opponent & smashed in the face with a hay-maker punch the force of which sent her spinning head over heels a couple of times as she flew several feet before smashing into the ground. A massed cheer & applause erupted from the onlookers as now the only person who hadn't bowed-out of the contest now was hellfire archoness Ozma Torth who kept pacing around her opponent slightly altering her fighting stance while trying to find an opening.

"You can, give up Ozma! nobody will think ill of you, you're ONE of the best fighters in Zakol" Her opponent jested, watching Ozmas moments while standing like a rock. Ozma grinned as she slowly advanced several steps before pacing around again as she spoke "I can't, i need to train & become stronger than you, so i can better protect you princess Yui!". Her opponent Yui Wolph laughed before abruptly charging towards Ozma "stronger then me?! Ha! you can try!". The two of them continued fighting like demons possessed when Warren Rahmas (minister of the interior) arrived at the spectacle walking over to some of the other humans watching the fight "Nobility from other kingdoms would never spar with their guards... why do i serve one that does?" he said in jest but his sense of humor was so dry others took his comments seriously & stepped away from 'dissident' minister, the space around him made him stand out from the crowed.

Princess Yui stopped when she noticed Rahmas & waved "Is it time for the meeting?" she could see Rahmas nod in the distance of the field, during which Ozma took advantage and charged head-on at the princess, only at the very last second getting a powerful kick in the stomach which sent her rolling backwards eight feet across the field before she managed to stop herself in a kneeling position looking up at the princess who had the widest self confident smile possible on her face "So close!, yet so far!". The princess started brushing her hands together & slightly cracked her neck till there was a little pop sound as the crowed cheered & applauded again. Ozma made her way over to the princess "good fight my lady" Yui nodded "same to you, ya really landed a few good ones on me" Yui feigned injury as she spoke Ozma in shock panicked reaching to care for the princess when she got nudged back, Yui sticking her tongue out "I'm fine really!, now lets get to the meeting".

Hakurei, Capital of Zakol - Palace throne room
As most of Zakols senate members had already gathered and taken position in their respective areas behind where their lead representatives (ministers) stood the only person everyone was waiting for was Gildas Claymont who eventually arrived in his own time, he wasn't usually late for meetings quite the opposite so everyone knew he must of had pressing matters to deal with. "Apologies everyone, and sorry princess, i won't waste any further time with excuses" he bowed gracefully at Yui before walking towards his position near the throne & then moving off the elaborate carpet leading to it taking his place. An announcer in the back declared the meeting in session signalling the guards to close the main doors.

Princess Yui dressed in the finest white & red silk robes, lay sideways on the elaborately decorated & cushioned couch-like throne holding her head up with her right hand, slightly behind the throne on the left stood archoness Torth in silence dressed in her combat gear ever-ready for trouble. In-front of the throne stood all her vassals to either side of the luxury carpet which lead from the main doors to the throne. "Right lets get started then" Yui said as she sat upright on the throne, Glasha Yotul the head priestess bowed first and spoke "Firstly I'm proud to announce that there are many talented Magi in-training at the temples seeking to be of service to kingdom, the god & goddess have truly been kind to bless many of our people with their powers, but i fear it may be due to their warnings as-well your highness". Yui nodded in acknowledgement "you mean the omens, have their signs still not lessened?" Priestess Yotul slowly shook her head "No, the omens from the divines continue to allude to something dark & dangerous coming, despite any appeasement we offer the divines, the omens & visions of our seers are no more clearer, less frequent or foreboding...". Princess Yui frowned lost in momentary thought "thank you Glasha for your input, and for the work of your subordinates" Yui bowed in respect as the priestess bowed back in response.

Gildas Claymont cut into the silence that had filled the room as he bowed & spoke up "My lady, unlike some who would suggest otherwise given the omens... that the dwarfs are plotting something is doubtful the peace treaty is holding & they seem to be making no major moves in preparations for war, their military grandstanding at the boarder is nothing more than an attempt of intimidation to put pressure on the ongoing discussions over mining disputes, might i suggest the recruitment & training of 500 light infantry from the rural areas in northern Zakol to supplement the boarder-guard, while info is leaked to the dwarfs of us raising new troops for defense out of 'fear' of them invading, if they panic thinking they're escalating matters it might make them stand down & help ease tensions".

Loxa Venn snorts in frustration "Why all this diplomatic rubbish?! It's simpler if one of us fights one of their best fighters, we beat them down in a fair fight!, matter is settled, arguments over the end!". Gildas looked at general Venn with a smirk "If only all things in the world where so simple & directly to the point like you Loxa" Loxa stood proudly missing the veiled insult entirely "I know right!", Princess Yui trying not to smile cut in "I'll consider it Gildas, after I've heard all matters".

Warren Rahmas bowed in turn to speak "Nothing much to report business is running smoothly, the serial arsonist causing trouble in Lakai the past month was apprehended trying to torch an unmanned ship at the docks his trial is set for next week, As for agriculture we're still producing & stockpiling in considerable excess across the kingdom we actually need to construct more grain silos to deal with volume... in all everything's going smoothly of late your highness!" Rahmas paused but seemed anxious to add something... "Warren?" Rahmas bowed again "Sorry your highness, again i must bring it up due to the amount of people requesting, would you please reconsider & allow human citizens of Zakol to enlist & serve in the main body of the military not just in support roles, many people come into my office daily making impassioned cases & reasons on how they want the right to fight for and defend their home as Ogres can, they go on about how we humans may not be mighty but how they will fight with every bit of strength they can muster in service to you princess...". Loxa spoke up "this again?..." she sighed "Yui, i know they're weak but they're loyal and there is no doubt they mean what they say!, Sides! its not like they'll be fightin other Ogres in a war they'll be fighting with us against the other weak races with some training they'll be Gu'd at it so i say let em!... I'm just happy Mokur isn't here or we'd have to sit though another of his spee'tchez against it!".

Gildas Claymont pulled a stack of papers from one of his pouches "About that General Mokur has a lot of time on his hands up north, and he sent this forty-page essay which states on the front page: 'In-case the humans try voting to serve more actively not as Magi in the military please read the following in my absence...'" Gildas clears his throat in preparation but is interrupted almost in sync by Yui, Loxa, & Warren, even Ozma stepped forward raising a hand as if she was reaching out to stop him. "Stop!" they all looked at each other before composing themselves & Yui took over "No need, we know his reasoning & views from the last few speeches on the matter just leave that essay with me afterwards..." Gildas bowed trying to hide a grin "As you wish".

"Right anything else?" Rahmas nodded "Could we consider looking into retrofitting our transport ships for expand the cargo-holds & thus increase the capacity of trade goods?". Now that the basics of the meeting has started all the senate members began quickly discussing what proposals they each want forwarded while Claymont added on to what Rahmas has said "Actually i think we should focus on expanding our military as skilled & powerful as it is with the ogres our numbers pale in comparison with the military numbers of other kingdoms in Alria, That and we should also be more focused on technological advancement for warfare and not messing with how much more cargo space we can get in a trade ship!".

Rahmas shook his head "No!, everyone tends to leave us alone due to our neutrality and our central position as a trade hub, we should be focused on domestic advancements!". half the senate clapped in support of Rahmas, Claymont not backing down "Yes we're left alone!, but though history every so often someones got the bright idea of picking a fight with us regardless!, Our military forces albeit better trained & outfitted are smaller than they where back then & from the info my informants have been sending other kingdoms have started their own military buildups... not directly against us for now but that can easily change better to be prepared than not! Not to mention the Omens the seers keep talking about if my info is not a sign to heed their omens are!" the other half of the senate started clapping in support of Claymont.

Priestess Yotul added in "I fear i have to agree, even if its small precautionary act, we should consider raising additional forces until the seers can get a better idea of the threat..." most of the senate members, Rahmas & Claymont where all too caught up in their arguing to notice Yotul's addition which irked Princess Yui "ENOUGTH!... Lady Yotul thank you for your guidance in this matter!". the two quietly backed down and apologized to both Yui & Glasha before Claymont added in "Please i understand our political position more than most, and i know we can't do everything at once!, but i strongly believe we should be taking steps against our neighbors intentions the times are changing as is technology we're already behind some other kingdoms in that regard... we should look into researching these black powder weapons that can pierce armor..." Loxa spoke up "a lil metal ball is nothing to an ogre even if it goes through armor..." she pounded on her chest triumphantly as Claymont continued "...Other kingdoms have machines to use in combat even ones that can fly! our forces could be in trouble without a counter to such weaponry..." Priestess Yotul added "If the Divines had intended for us to fly, we'd have been born with wings!, its unnatural!, besides our Magi could smash or incinerate any such... ungodly abnormalities! before any damage could be done & that's if they even dared to pick a fight with us!, & if so for what reason we've not bothered anyone for generations!".

Princess Yui could tell this was going to go on for ages like it usually did, so she raised her hand to quiet the room "All right, i can tell everyone's worries about different things the foreign news, the divines warnings, or losing our neutrality though dangerous actions..." everyone settled down as the princess went into thought. "Ok all domestic & commerce issues are running smoothly as things currently stand, & i see no fault in taking precautions considering we don't know what the sun god & moon goddess are trying to warn us of..." Priestess Yotul stepped forward "Your highness, i intend to travel the holy trail to the peaks Zakol Mountain with some of my eldest subordinates & seers so we might get a clearer understanding of the omens" Yui bowed to the priestess "I wish you well in your endeavors".

Princess Yui paused in consideration again before speaking "Alright, 500 light infantry will be raised from the rural area in the north to support the boarder guard, Adn...to start with... 200 crossbow troops will be raised from human volunteers! i want extensive training arranged to get them drilled for combat & Warren see to it they are properly outfitted with the necessary equipment" a large portion of the senate began clapping happily at that declaration. "Additionally i want another 80 Ogre kragfang knights trained their numbers have always been short we should see to that".

Princess Yui paused in thought again "As for what the scribes should focus research on..." Claymont spoke up "Out of all other concerns I've raised on that matter, i would suggest the most dire... our navy alone is so outdated everyone else has moved onto superior & modern weaponry like cannons another black powder weapon which are far more powerful than the current ship mounted catapults & ballistas not to mention the superior range". A humbled Rahmas joined in "That is a pressing matter but with the preparation of additional troops & our current forces, we should invest in improving the quality of their armor & equipment for better survive-ability during combat".

"Hmmm... we'd have to start with learning how to create black powder before any advancement such as cannons could even be started... so we should focus on things with a more immediate benefit, have the scribes look into ways of improving our forces armor & equipment, to better protect our forces in the field!" Yui felt confident in her choices thus far as she overlooked everyone in the room, "If that's everything for the time being, i declare this meeting over, everyone please return to your duties!".

Winter of the Year 2716

Before the first snows of winter have even fallen, the soil of Alria has been washed with blood. Thoughts of war, and a coming darkness has infected through every level and every nations, driving armies to war and soldiers to their deaths.

For the Goblins of New Gobolia, the coming frost brings with it news of friends and drinking partners, but also of ill tidings from the east, of Goblin blood spilled. Only time will tell whether this nation will rouse itself from its stupor to face this new threat.

New Engelica prepares itself for a stormy future. Visited by Dwarves for the first time in centuries, bearing tidings of a great darkness, and a coming war, the leaders of this western nation have braced themselves for marching to war against the Holy Lands.

Recognising the threat of the warmongering Pualirian Empire, the Holy Novgorod Imperium has gathered what support they can; ready to face the coming potential of war. They could sense that times were changing for the lands of Alria, and conflict was coming.

Fresh from declaring their siding with the nation of Kebriw, the ships of the Confederacy of Sawl sailed into the path of the Ironclad fleet of the Blaris Union and were beaten back badly. But the Gnomes are already planning more devious technology to combat their new enemy.

Tushienia sent warning to those nations that would hear them of the growing threat coming from the east, but few would truly believe them. Only to the north were they truly greeted and welcomed, and yet their warning rang true as the Darkness pushed from the East, shattering the armies of the Pualirian Empire and seizing a Province.

First to draw blood, the Broken Empire swept away the weak resistance of the Holy Lands, the mechanical warriors cutting a bloody path as the foul magic of Necromancy rose those slain by the dwarves creations to fight alongside them. A convincing victory, the Broken Empire had proven they were a force to be reckoned with.

Silently preparing, the military of might of the Kingdom of Zakol did not reach out to its neighbours, simply raising more warriors and preparing for the inevitable coming storm. The feel of war was in the air, and it set the hair on end and made the skin crawl.

Blood has been spilled, and there is no doubt there will be more spilled in the dark winter months. But will the end of winter also end this carnage, or will the new life of spring be drowned in rivers of blood?



MAP KEY

The Winter in the Sawl Confedaracy

The weather had remained as it had been for a majority of the year, if not becoming more mild by the day. Many of the citizens were up in arms about the defeat at the hands of the Union, after all they were a leading force in the archipelago with the might of their Air Force and navy. Yet, the union had ships of iron. This angered the populous, especially the Gnomes seeing as how they were now behind their enemy in technology in the naval regard.

To accommodate this, a bombing wing was sent out; numbering in ten bombers with an escort of ten interceptors and twenty bombers. The plan was to strike from above rather than a full frontal assult and hopefully that this would cripple the enemy naval power.

Another force was sent out to go and aid the Kepriw, a land force that was to be transported by to the Kepriw land. It was a force of 125 Arquebusiers and 50 heavy Calvary. The main bulk of the Sawlian military would stay at the homeland in order to defend from any attack that may be heading their way. Recruitment was also under way of more Arquebusiers.

Valtegaarde, Capital of Tushienia, HQ of the Engineers and Tinkers Union

Tork looked around the workshop with the glazed over expression of someone who doesn't understand a single word about what the person currently talking was saying but for various reasons they weren't allowed to flat out ignore the speaker or walk away from them. Sadly the reason that Tork couldn't leave was because the speaker was the head of the Engineers and Tinkers Union who was some half goblin, half human named Ponders. Ponders liked to talk about the latest pet project of the Engineers and Tinkers Union in great technical detail that no one other then him could understand but Ponders seemed immune to the standard methods of politely ending a conversation early if you didn't just give him funding right off the bat and let him do his thing.

Ponders was talking about Steam and how it could be harnessed...

..........................................................
Valtegaarde, Capital of Tushienia, Training Field 3

Vaewith and Rodrim watched silently as the new recruits that were lined up on the snow covered field nearby took aim at the targets that were downrange. They weren't -bad- per say for new recruits that had just started being trained in the use of firearms. At least none of them had shot themselves... yet. Thankfully they hadn't had some idiot look down the barrel of the gun yet...

..............................................................
Valtegaarde, Capital of Tushienia, Stables

The gifts from the Holy Novgorod Imperium had not been expected at all. After the grain had been checked to ensure that it wasn't poisonous, it was loaded up to be sent to a different kingdom in order to help improve relations. The Vladstok Stag was a completely different matter; Shipping it off would have very easily been seen as an insult. However, since none of the Council of Five were inclined to try riding the thing it had found itself deposited in the stables. Some use would be found for it later...

The gold coins that had been sent were sent to be melted down and turned into their own local currency, freeing up Tushienia funds to send a gift of their own golden coinage alongside the grain.

Alec Bredain, Sindar Bredain, Eléane Bredain
Province 58, Al'Gruin
There has been a lot of tension within the encampment of Al’Gruin. Ever since the scouts had returned, rumors spread like wildfire. The Holy Lands wanted to mount an assault against New Engelica. Not a single Magi enjoyed the thought of returning to the ways of Old Engelica. Where mages and witches were feared and loathed, simply because they were born different. They knew that their leaders were preparing to retaliate. The only question was, how hard they would hit back.

After 3 days of convening, the War-magi finally opened the gate of Al’Gruin once more. Those men and women, wielding the powers entrusted by the Old Gods themselves, looked ready for battle. Almost all of them. Wielding their staves and tomes and orbs. The orders quickly spread through the camp. That they were to march for war and ruin once more. Horns blew loud, signaling the troops that they were to start their march. Books and relics were stored in crates and loaded onto carts. Eléane gathered about 4 War-magi, 60 magi and 100 light infantry. They were to move faster than even the Vanguard. No surprise then that Eléane chose elves for the job. The mission was simple, locate and destroy the siege weapons through guerilla tactics. And if the gods grant them an opportunity to kill a War-magi with barely any risk, do it. Once she was confident that she had harassed the Holy Land’s army enough, she would rejoin her father and Sindar at an assembly point. From which they would make a fast and devastating sweep through the mainland.

While most troops would march east, towards the enemy, some went north. Towards Orngat. A war-magi and his retinue of 20 magi. They were to negotiate a non-attack-pact. A promise neither faction would attack the other. The pact itself rested completely on mutual trust. For how long it was to last, was up to Orngat. Though Alec would have liked to get a minimum of 2 years. If the NAP would last long enough, there might be a desired Alliance coming after it.

---

Some students
Province 58, Al'Gruin
Linda was looking pretty skeptic at her twin brother. It was Friday, the traditional “invention” day within Al’Gruin. In honor of previous master magi who all discovered great new theories on Fridays, Friday became a day the students were free to do what they liked. Most tried to get deeper knowledge in elemental magic, though not Linda and Silvester. They had both looked long to the sky and the caged birds, and wondered what it was like to fly. So they developed the Eleviticus. Nothing more than sticks holding together cloth strapped on Silvester, who was now standing on top of one of the towers of Al’Gruin. “Are you sure this will work?” Linda asked her twin. “Nope. But that’s the fun part. Now, are you ready?” he asked enthusiastically. Linda sighed, and grabbed her tome to start the incantation. Silvester jumped out of the window. For a split second he was afraid that he would fall to his death, but then the Eleviticus got its lift from the upwards stream of wind thanks to Linda. “Look at me! Look at me I’m fly- blrrr paah. Sorry. Swallowed a fly.” Silvester shouted enthusiastically to his twin. Who kept the incantation going. Though then Silvester wanted to try how far away from the tower he could go. Though Linda started to lose grip on the winds. Soon Silvester lost all his lift, and came tumbling down, into the nearby lake. Where luckily a bunch of students quickly got him out.

It was Tavirin, the oldest of the three Forgelords who moved through the Holy Lands under the cover of night, and the conjured darkness of the Orcs, into the nation of New Engelica. They had only travelled for a few hours before their small party, nothing more than the Forgelord and a personal bodyguard of ten Hammerbearers was greeted by a party of quick-footed Elf rangers. Tavirin explained to them that they intended to meet with the leaders of New Engelica, and after some hushed discussion, the rangers led them through the rolling hills and valleys. Finally coming to a towering stone building that radiated magic and set Tavirin’s hairs on end, the small party from the Broken Empire was led inside.

As the Dwarves walked out into the main square, whispers echoed all around them as young elves and humans emerged from corridors all around them to see the visitors for themselves. Tavirin allowed himself a smile and stood taller as he strode towards the keep of the castle. With a flourish, two figures burst forth from the keep even as the Forgelord moved towards it. The first was wearing an extravagant emerald dress, gold chain around her neck and fiery hair splayed around her face. Wielding a flashy silver staff sporting an elaborate golden dragon coiled around its top, she radiated mystic power. But it was the man behind this woman that caught Tavirin’s attention. Wearing simple black robes, and carrying nothing but a simple wooden staff, his very presence set the Dwarf on edge. This train of thought however was interrupted by the woman all but shouting across the square.

"You! Tell me of your business with New Engelica."

Tavirin Blackstone allowed himself a slight smile; he’d been negotiating before either of these two leaders’ parents had even been born.

“Not the most courteous way to greet guests from a foreign land m’lady. Perhaps we can be civil, one leader to another. The Dwarf you see before you is Forgelord Tavirin Blackstone, Member of the Broken Council, son of Bron Blackstone and at the moment, an emissary from the Broken Empire. You, I assume, are Leana Broadwalk, and may I say you are as beautiful as the stories say. And you, my lord, must be Alec Bredain, the Ruin King himself, although you do not decorate yourself as many foolish kings across this land do.”

Striding across the courtyard he now stood in, leaving the small party of Dwarves to form into ranks behind him, Tavirin stopped a few metres away from the two leaders and glanced at the golden dragon coiled around the top of the sorceresses’ staff and smiled slightly.

“Have you ever seen a dragon m’lady? I doubt it; after all, they’ve been extinct from these lands for centuries. All the stories you hear about them, their hordes of treasures and the brave knights that killed them, they’re just stories. I’ve never seen a dragon with a horde, and I certainly wasn’t a gallant knight last time I separated one from its head.”

Straightening up again, the Forgelord looked up into their faces. Years around the Orcs had gotten Tavirin used to looking up at others when he spoke, not that his neck liked it.

“But I’m rambling. Excuse an old dwarf. You asked me of my business, well it’s really rather simple. The Holy Lands to your East are a volatile and aggressive people. As we speak, my nation’s armies are already marching to war against them. I come to you with a request of alliance against them, or at the very least your promise not to get involved in the coming war. So what do you say?”

It was the Ruin King himself that replied to the Dwarf, stepping forward.

"You sweeten your words well, my lord. However, maybe we could do the diplomatic talk inside. Before a warm fire with a nice wine - I mean ale."

Tavirin smiled at the Mage-Kings words and set off after him towards the doors of the castle proper, paying no heed to the icy look from the sorceress. Following the pair into a parlour, warmed by a roaring fire, the Dwarf lifted a flagon of ale from the table to his side and took a healthy swig. It was sweet, not as good as Dwarven brewed, but a fine brew and a welcome drink after his party’s journey to new Engelica. Thirst slightly sated, the human king across the table from him spoke.

"We heard rumors of the dangerously...fanatic people on our eastern border. You were so honest to state that your own armies are marching inwards. Thus I will admit that our armies will soon do the same. I promise you that they will not march into the same province as your army. Torn between 2 marching foes, I doubt that the Holy Lands stand much of a chance. The real question is, what will we do with the central province? If your armies march south and mine march north, they are bound to clash in that area."

Listening to the carefully chosen words of the ruler carefully and nodding in agreement, Tavirin leant forward towards the map unrolled on the table and spoke himself.

“We can take the central Province together, using our combined strength to break apart the Holy Lands last resistance. From there, we can strike out at the lands of Limgar, another aggressive nation to the North that is hungry to expand its borders. We’re willing to allow you to claim the central Province of the Holy Lands, with your promise to aid us against Limgar. From there, I see no reason why our two nations can’t continue to work together.”

Alec was silent for a moment, staring down at the map, before he spoke, leaning back as he did so.

"We thank you for your offer. But I see no reason why I should sacrifice brave men and women from New Engelica for a foreign power's conquest merely so we can claim a single extra province from the Holy lands."

Tavirin already had his mouth open to reply before Leana Broadwalk cut across him, her voice softer now that they were inside.

"If I may, what if we did support you in your conquest of Limgar. But in return, we also take the most western province of Limgar. So your Broken Empire gets 1 province from the Holy Lands and 2 from Limgar. While we take 2 provinces from the Holy Lands and one from Limgar."

Alec, obviously trusting the sorceress, nodded in agreement and added his own voice to the offer.

"Such conquest could lay the foundations of a longer lasting peace indeed. What do you say, Forgelord?"

The Forgelord smiled, glad that he had successfully won the support of New Engelica
"You're as savvy as they say, and I'll take your agreement."

Tavirin refilled his flagon before raising it towards the ceiling.

"To peace and war"

The two rulers raised their own glasses of wine, Leana with white and Alec with red, and joined his toast.

“To peace and war”

Garrison


Actions

Recruitment


Research
Mithril Armour (Turn 2)

Spring of the Year 2717

They continue to fight. From the wars raging across the lands victors begin to emerge as the armies of a hundred nations clash over seemingly nothing. There are those who aim to expand their land. There are those that seek to protect those who are under attack and then there are those who go to war just to see their enemies blood spilt. However this war can only last so long as the nations begin to exhaust their supplies of soldiers and weapons they will be forced to turn towards an altogether more grave enemy, the Shadow. And if you have waged war against all then you will have no-one to stand beside you in combat.

New Gobolia was silent in the winter months, perhaps still reeling from the bloodbath of their diplomatic party, or perhaps just in a drunken stupor. While they sat and do nothing, the Lagosami Tribes have poured down from their hilltop nation like a great tide and seized a province from the Empire of Ubalri.

New Engelica, its alliance with the Broken Empire still wet ink, have marched to war against the Holy Lands, driving their enemies before them and claiming the province from their enemies. However now they find that the Broken Empire has not been idle in the winter, claiming another Province and shattering the Holy Lands.

The Holy Novgorod Imperium has been seemingly idle as the cold winds blew across Alria, despite the pleas for help coming from nation of Duringis as the Pualirian Empire, still reeling from the oncoming Darkness, seizes their land. The Imperium also faces the first waves of the Great Shadow themselves, but withstand. 

Recovering from the onslaught of the Union of Blaris, the Dirigibles of the Confederacy of Sawl reaped a bloody toll on the Ironclad fleet, leaving smoking wrecks in their wake. Despite their efforts, the Union claimed yet more of the islands, this time lashing out at the previously uninvolved Pankra, dragging all the nations into the conflict. 

Unable to come to the aid to their new found allies of Duringis as they were out rightly invaded by the Pualirian Empire, Tushienia would need to decide whether to come to the aid of their northern neighbours, or not risk overstretching their forces in the face of the encroaching Darkness.

Again the Broken Empire achieved a successful, if bloody, victory against the Holy Lands. Marching through the whirling snowstorms, steel and iron frosting over, the Dwarves and Orcs, aided by their creations, both metal and undead, seized yet another Province. 

Another nation who remained idle during the winter, the Kingdom of Zakol waited, no doubt plans to react to the conflicts threatening to consume all of Alria. 



MAP KEY

Sawlian news paper-


After the declaration of war against the Union tyranny, the Sawlian navy had suffered a defeat by the hands of an ironclad fleet. However, Sawlians have recovered from this loss and have gone to show the Union what happens when you mess with Sawlian men. An air raid had happened to defeat this fleet and it was reduced to smoldering peices in the sea. Men now move to take a province from the Union and show the lot what a true man is made of! Meanwhile the fleet grows larger as twenty new ships are built and 6,000 men are drafted into the Sawlian Militant Arment. Well, on more news; the people of Sawl are not being drafted into the military anymore unless they wish to become apart of 20 ships that are still under construction.

-Sawlian Editor; Maticus Fithil, Gnome.

It was a beautiful thing; the Sawlian people had rallied after that first attack and sunk an Ironclad fleet. Although the Union was gaining more land an that needs to stop or else they were going to lose this war on many fronts. However, if they could reclaim this province for Kebriw then they could stand a better chance as it could act as a front against the Union.

That is when Sawl would go to help Pankra by destroying any fleet that they can find. Hopefully, Pankra would be able to rally soon so that the Sawlian people would not have to do all the work in this war.

-----------

"Alright men! We are going to push up and show these Union people what it means to have everyone against them! The Arquebusiers will be moving towards the rear of the coordinated attack as you can kill the enemy from afar. The Kebriw troops will move in first, however, make sure to stay close to them. Heavy Calvary will charge in to deter any forces from trying to flank us! I want you men to fight well! Now how are we!," strategized General Cornellious Perkinson, a gnome who had proven himself in battle many times, though this would be his first battle against other Islanders and not people who wanted to overthrow their current leader.

"We are the Sawlian Knights Regiment!," The heavy Calvary said in union.

"We are the Sawlian Riflemen Regiment!," the Arquebusiers yelled in union.

Spring had come to Tushienia, but with it came the beating of drums to match the march of an army. Humans and goblins, necromancers and shamans and even the living and the dead were marching to the beat of war, marching to go and aid their allies in Duringis against the invading Pualirian Empire. The defensive pact that had been made between the two nations would be upheld.

.......................................

Valtegaarde, Capital of Tushienia, HQ of the Engineers and Tinkers Union

Ponders beamed like a father watching his child put together his first bicycle; Sitting in the middle of the workshop was a masterpiece of mechanical engineering. Of course it was still merely a prototype and several copies of it would need to be made in order to properly test its limitations and see what happened when one of these engines failed (By sabotaging the hell out of them for the purpose of the test) but for now the head of the Engineers and Tinkers Union simply admired their creation.

Already his mind was awash of ideas of what the raw power that the engine in front of him could create could be used for.

Adrina nodded, "Then if that's settled we drop the illusions." Heads nodded around the room and word was sent out. By the end of the day the illusions dropped down and the Chalezian Union faded away. Perhaps never to been seen again. At least not for a very, very, long time. "Its time we introduced ourselves. Send a small party to Tushienia, they are also aware of the danger presents and will doubtless aid us in the dark times to come. Also to Duringis, they have offered friendship in the past, and now we will need their help. As for the Holy and Pualirian Empires let our borders stand fast." Though the Pualirian Empire more than anyone else should now be aware of the threat the darkness threatened it was suspected they would attack outwards rather than ask for aid.

The Holy Empire had made it clear before that violence was always a close response, if not the first, and the fact that an envoy had been sent to a known realm of necromancer would likely be enough reason for them to attack. Both of them would likely be panicked and grabbing for land. However if they struck at the Kingdom of Andinon they would find they had made a grievous mistake. There was a reason the "Union" had kept its secret for so long. Even as plans were made and gnomes rushed to their tasks, new weapons were being tested, and magics prepared. Doubtless they would be needed. The Thunderborn brothers were already at the borders watching warily. Alfred was prepping the Royal Gaurd and Corki was impatiently waiting until his services were needed.

Kingdom of Zakol

Hakurei, Capital of Zakol - Palace dinning room
A member of the kitchen staff walks away from the great dining table after severing the Princess the main course, mouthing away to herself because Ozma had sampled the food & wine before she'd been allowed to serve it to the princess "I love the princess & this country as if it allow anything to harm her... Hmph! treating me like some lowly assassin, I've been preparing and serving meals since she..." the staff women continued mumbling to herself as she left the room back into the kitchen. Princess Yui pretending not to have noticed as she started eating turned to look at Ozma when the staff woman had left, Ozma shook her head before Yui could say anything "Just doing my job your highness, it concerns me not if i upset the help in the process", letting the matter drop Yui resumed her meal. A while later having finished the main course Princess Yui downed a mug of wine almost in one go, when the main doors of the dinning room burst open!, Ozma standing ready for anything only to see holy priestess Yotul almost stumbling over her own feet exhausted the sight of which made princess Yui stand in surprise "Glasha i thought you were at Zakol mountain with the seers?!".

Priestess Yotul managing to regain herself a little as she made her way over to Yui & Ozma "Darkness!, something horrible approaches the signs, the visions of the seers..." Yui & Ozma helped the Holy priestess to a chair trying to calm her as Yui questioned her "Yotul, someones attacking? who dares march against us?!". The priestess shook her head as she found some composure to explain "Not who my lady, what!, something deadly approaches from the far east of Alria... it's set on engulfing everything that stands before it... The seers visions foretold as things stand, everything will fall in shadow and fire unless the kingdoms act...". Ozma brought Yotul something to drink and stood unsure of what to do or say as Yui continued to try and get all the details & events of what was witnessed on the holy mountain, and make sense of what Yotul was trying to explain in her exhausted state, as the journey from the capital to the top of Zakol mountain is a long trek even without stops along the way, Yotul evidently having made the journey back in record time scared by what the seers envisioned from the gods.

An hour later...

Hakurei, Capital of Zakol - Palace throne room
Gildas Claymont entered the room after being summoned briskly walking over to Warren Rahmas who'd arrived shortly before "Rahmas! what's going on why has the princess called an emergency meeting?", Rahmas equally concerned turned to approach Claymont leaving the little group of babbling politicians he was with to themselves. Rahmas gave a slight bow in respect "I don't know lord Claymont, i figured you would have a better idea than anyone, all i know more than others it seems is that Priestess Yotul is back in the Capital", Claymont paused before speaking "I thought... wait how do you know she's back in the Capital?" Rahmas shrugged "I saw her run down a corridor, roughly an hour ago when i went to fetch more quill ink, i ran out while i was in the middle of reviewing the market places monthly accounts..." Claymont raised his hand to stop Rahmas's explanation "I don't care what you where doing, why didn't you follow Yotul to find out why she's back?". Rahmas was a little irked at Claymonts interruption "Simple once i obtained the ink, i went back to finish my unimportant work!, as I'm not one of your spies!" Rahmas stood indignant as he finished.

Lord Claymont sighed deeply before he apologized "I'm sorry Rahmas, that was unworthy of me! your tireless efforts are what keeps the kingdom running efficiently and thus are of great import, i meant no insult, only that i eagerly wished to gain an understanding of what this emergency session is about!". Rahmas nodded in both acknowledgement & hinting towards main doors of the throne room "It seems, We're about to find out my friend!".

Two hellfire banshees stood to either side of the main doors as the Princess entered escorted by Ozma Torth & more of her elite guards, as Yui made her way to the throne the guards moved to take their positions around her while the main doors where shut & locked as they did so Princess Yui watched as everyone gathered before her "Thank you all, a serious matter as come to our attention which i believe we should heed and take immediate action to prepare for...". Princess Yui went on to explain the previously unclear signs of foreboding and of Priestess Yotul's return with news of the seers visions of what was coming. Which resulted in a mass debate & arguing amongst the politicians that only became louder when Princess Yui proposed her intentions on how she plans to prepare against this unknown threat, plans which will break Zakols generations long neutrality with it's neighbors...

Hakurei, Capital of Zakol - Palace Main Hallway
After the emergency council session was dismissed a mix of zealous, patriotic, concerned, & fearful politicians filed out still arguing and debating with each other over what's already been decided, amongst them ran messengers and military officers relaying messages and orders to mobilize the entire kingdom for war. Rahmas exited the throne rooms main doors beside lord Claymont as others passed by them Claymont speaking up "Glad Zakol is an autocratic government & not a republic this lot would be arguing what course of action to take when our enemies are banging on the front door!" Rahmas slowed his pace "Gildas, i understand the necessity but, I'm not happy about all this... we should try to peacefully..."

Lord Claymont cut in "Warren!, the kingdom of Iparis wont just accept & hand-over it's territory without a show of our power & with time likely against us we have little choice but to act immediately and try to force annexation after the displays been made to avoid further unnecessary bloodshed, military expansion is our best option of survival if this threat of what coming is to be believed and my spies have been relaying some troublesome rumors for a while now... well those of whom i hear back from, every agent I've sent for Intel to the north east of the Pualirian Empire has gone silent".

Rahmas looked surprised he knew how skilled Claymont was in his duties "nothing at all?" Claymont paused "not technically... the last agent i sent had a carrier pigeon that came back" Rahmas was intrigued "And?" Claymont shook his head "a torn page soaked in blood couldn't tell if there was even any ink on it due to the state the paper was in, until i can get a better idea of whats happening through other means I'm not sending any other agents to investigate, I've lost too many good ones already!".

A messenger ran up to Lord Claymont and bowed respectively as Claymont nodded in reply "Lord Claymont an ambassador from Tushienia has arrived and is currently being escorted to your office sir" Loxa Venn enthusiastically cut past with military officers in tow heading off to mobilize her forces. "Thank you lad, i'll head there right away!" Claymont eyed the now vanishing ogre general as he bowed to Rahmas "Later my friend, i have matters i must attend to for now!". with that they both gave a slight bow and headed off in different directions leaving most of the politicians to their loud mass debate in the hallway.

later that day...

N.Zakol - North-east boarder - Forward command
A messenger pigeon had arrived with deployment orders that where immediately taken to general Volaq Mokur "They want what?!" the jittery human war-magi passed the letter to the general for him to read it for himself. "They want me to reassign half of the garrisoned forces to the south?! I take's it, they want me to personally put up training dummies along the boarder fortresses while I'm at it so no one notices the decrease in numbers?!" The human war-Magi speaks up in a soft tone "Sir... the princess wouldn't make such a drastic move unless it was vital, also with the forces remaining here we wouldn't need to resort to such measures as we'd still have the necessary numbers should a situation arise... which is doubtful as the peace treaties are holding, especially after the dwarfs backed-down over the ruckus they where kicking up about territory claims...". The human almost lept out of his skin from the sudden turn of the ogre general & his face but relaxed as Mokur seemed to settle down "I suppose... this haz to be the one time I'm happy we're at peace with dem lil beardies... Right go'an bring me the rosters, so i can start moving forces south an see what I've still got stationed'Ere!".

Alec Bredain, Sindar Bredain, Eléane Bredain
Province 55
The battle started at dawn. The men of New Engelica formed their tight formation. Shield against shield, with spears ready to pierce metal and flesh. Magi marched behind them. Their many tomes and staves ready to cast the spells of the 4 elements, as well as to pray for their knights in mithril armor before them. The men and women of the line held it bravely. Suffering wounds like scratches. Bleeding dry before falling from formation. But then, the machinery of war from the Holy Lands were rolled in. An unexpected turn of events to most magi, as they assumed that their lady would have destroyed those machines. Dismay began to grip the hearts of the soldiers. While fearless of their foe, they dared not imagine what happened to Lady Eléane. The lines eventually broke, and skirmishes broke out everywhere across the battlefield. Magi against magi, infantry against infantry as massive bolts from ballistae wreaked havoc on the field. For a moment, it would seem that the balance of the battle was tipping to the side of the Holy Lands.

But it hasn’t. In the heat of battle, a single gust of wind blew heavy across the battlefield. Even those not gifted by magic felt how off the blow was. Especially when all wind seized after it. But the veterans of the First Mage War began to smile. “Hold on to your trousers lads! And try not to faint. For you’ll want to tell your grandchildren about this!” The bearded elders yelled. From the forest behind the lines shadows appeared. Their form unclear. The magi behind the main line of skirmishes soon recognized who it was and knelt. The War-Magi had arrived. And with them, dark clouds from the east.

The battle’s tide turned swiftly and without mercy. It was Eléane, not the Ruin-King who led the War-Magi party. She marched with a cold determination only a battle scarred sorceress could. The fighting reignited as the War-Magi of fire hurled their fiery wrath at the siege weapons. From the tempest above rain of ice shards fell down. Lightning crawled over the ground, scotching the fools that stood in the way. Then, a line of brave but foolish Holy Land Magi started their prayers. At the center of the line, a War-Magi was channeling the Divine energy of the prayers into a skull. A relic of some ancient saint. “Beware evil that harms this land! Our prayers will defend us. Our gods will protect us!” he yelled in determination. The Holy Land warriors who were not quick enough to cower behind the shield were soon slaughtered in cold blood. Eventually, all heavy infantry and magi units watched the shield. As did the enemy from the other side. Incantations had seemingly no effect on it. Until Eléane appeared from between her units. Without words she approached the shield. But a few meters away from it, she turned around and shouted: “Pray for me. My people.” The frontline units formed their line formation again. As the magi and troops behind them knelt down to say their silent prayers.

Her veins began to glow. Softly first. Like the light of a candle seen through a hand. But quickly the intensity grew. The light turned blue and bright. With a thousand voices speaking as one, she said: “Then I will kill your gods first!” She stretched her right arm before her. With her pointing finger out. She walked towards the skull. Her arm passed through the barrier. Not with ease, clearly. But it passed. The terrified War-Magi was shaking, yet kept holding the saint’s skull up. A stupid mistake. As one touch from Eléane was enough to make a crack on it. A small piece, a tooth, fell from the skull. Then two others followed. Soon the jaw came crashing down to the ground too. Eventually the entire skull turned to shattered fragments. The barrier collapsed. And in the same time the blue light in Eléane’s veins vanished too. She looked the War-Magi in the eyes, and smiled a cocky grin. After which she walked back to her line. The grin was a secret she and him shared. In a duel, only a day ago when she was out finding the siege weapons, he threw her the same grin when he and his men found her. In the ambush she saw him from the top of the cliff. Casting his holy spells. He even had the guts to throw one at her, with the same kind of grin. “Don’t you dare walk away! You wrench!” he yelled after her. But then it was time for the Ruin King himself. Dressed in his simple black robes and holding his gnarled staff he passed the line of his warriors, who were standing tall once more. With his soft, grandfatherly voice he said: “You have lost, my dear. Surrender.” But the War-Magi, mistaking the Ruin King for a pathetically old, pacifistic magi spat at him. “Be gone old man! You are too old to be in this fight.” Alec did not take that lightly.

He took a deep breath, then slammed the gnarled wooden staff into the ground. With it, a fiery ring of fire surrounded the remaining Holy Land fighters. In a language long forgotten, he began to chant. The skies above him began to converge. Enemy magi and war-magi began to hurl their spells at him. To no avail, for the magic users of New Engelica protected their king. With their own bodies if had to. Eventually, the chanting came to an end. And the result was astonishing. Hail and lightning came down from the heavens, shattering the enemy within the fire circle alone. Then, the earth quaked and rumbled beneath their feet. From the cracks great tongues of fire lashed out. Cooking those in armor, and burning those in cloths.

By dusk, the enemy was completely annihilated. Yet the troops of New Engelica had casualties of their own. The ring wherein the enemy had been massacred by the Ruin King’s spell was circled by bonfires. Upon which the dead of New Engelica were burned. While those of the Holy Lands were left rotting on the ground that would long bear the scar of the magic used there. A single man on horseback rode out southwards with a letter.

Dwarven friends
The Holy Lands are no more. The pact will be honored. You can expect the troops of New Engelica to arrive by the summer.

---

Some students
Province 58
It was getting dusk when Yoren, Linda and Silvester dragged the contraption from Yoren’s workshop. Yoren was a blacksmith apprentice and lifelong friend of the twins. He was asked to make sturdier version of the glider they made in the winter. The end result resembled bat wings. Lightweight wooden “bones” kept a canvas tight. The wooden bones had copper rings keeping them together. But the copper served more than once purpose. They were lined with runes that channeled wind below it. Generating lift. With a back fin standing vertical, the operator could maneuver in the skies. In theory. Silvester went up in the skies again. This time, he could fly as far as he wanted, as he was unsupported by his twin. But it was clear that there was still work to do. As staying in control by controlling the airflow proved to be extremely difficult.

---

Diplomatic party
Province 57
The War-Magi and his retinue remained at Orngat. Further discussing the possibility of settling an embassy to continue to increase relations.

Mylori roared out in pain, a stream of curses coming from his mouth as the healers did what they could to staunch the blood flowing from the arrow lodged in his shoulder. It had been a lucky shot from some cowardly archer, the arrow punching through the chink in the dwarves armour and lodging itself several inches into his flesh.

In the heat of the battle, sheer adrenaline and bloodlust had pushed the Forgelord into almost a frenzy, slaughtering his enemies with an unmerciful zeal, but as the flag of the Broken Empire was raised above the final stronghold of the Holy Lands, Mylori had slumped to the ground, pain finally overwhelming him.

And so it was that the Warlock Thro’Gan found the dwarf pinned down to a table by his Hammerbearers as the Dwarf healers cut into his shoulder, seeking to remove the arrow from its festering wound before infection could take hold. Smelling the unmistakable stench of death, even through his blinding pain, Mylori turned towards the Warlock and all but roared at the Orc.

“Damn you Orc, I’m not dead yet”

Mylori thought he saw a flicker of emotion cross the necromancers face, but quickly dismissed it as the black eyes bored into his own bloodshot ones.

“You are right Forgelord. You still cling to this mortal realm. Allow me to ease your passing”

The Forgelord grimaced with pain as the healers finally pulled the arrow from his shoulder.

“You’d love that you bastard. But you’re not going to get your icy hands on my just yet”

With a crash, Tavirin Blackstone burst into the room, breathing heavily and still grasping his bloody war hammer. Taking in the scene, the Dwarf glowered at the Warlock and spoke in a low, rumbling voice.

“You’re not wanted here Warlock, this is Dwarf business”

Turning to look at the newly arrived Forgelord for a moment, the Orc stepped past him and out of the room. The stench lingered, but Mylori couldn’t be sure that wasn’t coming from his own gaping wound. Tavirin stepped closer to his fellow Dwarf but grimaced as Mylori turned towards him.

“Mylori, your face…”

Raising a hand to his face, feeling the raw burns that stretched across his features, Mylori winced, even as the healers applied herbs and pastes to numb the pain of his wounds.

“Damn those priests and their accursed gods. Let one get too close, his hands were like fire. Managed to grab my face before I cut him down”

True enough, a blackened handprint was printed onto the Forgelords face, the skin charred and burnt away. Trying not to stare at the horrific wound, Tavirin spoke again.

“I arrived with the support; we cut of what was left of the Holy Lands forces. I came here as quickly as I could when I heard that you had been injured. Will you survive?”

Mylori let out a rough, ragged laugh.

“As long as I can friend. Can’t give that bloody Orc any satisfaction”

Tavirin nodded. He knew that there was much to be done before the summer months came, and that Mylori would fight death at every step. Turning to the gathered Hammerbearers, Tavirin spoke in hushed voices to them.

“Remain with Forgelord Mylori, and ensure that our Orc friends do not get their hands on him. If the Warlock attempts to see him, you have my authority to deny him”

Satisfied that the healers would do what they could, Tavirin turned and left the room. He had barely left when a Dwarf, lightly armoured and gasping for breath, called out his name.

“Forgelord Tavirin! A rider from the north comes with news from New Engelica. He claims that they have won a victory against the Holy Lands, and our scouts say that even now their forces are marching towards us.”

Tavirin paused for a moment. He was impressed by their new-found allies, obvious the stories of their magical power were more than just folk-stories. The Broken Empire would honour their promise; this province belonged to New Engelica, even if it was Dwarven blood that was spilt to claim it, the price for alliance. Speaking to the messenger, the Forgelord described his orders.

“Thank the rider, and send him back to his homeland with our appreciation, and to tell his leaders that the Broken Empire honours the agreement, and we will be gone from this land by the time they arrive. Then spread the order, we shall march out of this land when the snow lifts, burn the dead and leave none behind.”

Garrison


Actions


Recruitment


Research
Mithril Armour (Turn 3)