382YE Summer Solstice winds of war - Revision history

Twiggy at 14:18, 19 March 2026

2026-03-19T14:18:59Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:18, 19 March 2026
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	Imperial prognosticators are preparing additional information relating to a number of smaller conjunctions over the course of the summit that will be of relevance to the Military Council, individuals from the various nations, and other parties. A summary of the identified conjunctions will be provided nearer the summit, with additional details passed to national egregores, [[Herald of the Council]] and the Imperial War Scouts.		Imperial prognosticators are preparing additional information relating to a number of smaller conjunctions over the course of the summit that will be of relevance to the Military Council, individuals from the various nations, and other parties. A summary of the identified conjunctions will be provided nearer the summit, with additional details passed to national egregores, [[Herald of the Council]] and the Imperial War Scouts.

	<box>Our Battle Team intend to run two large skirmishes aimed at Navarr in Liathaven at the event.. They will take place on Saturday between 18:00 and 19:00. To ensure these encounters run as intended we are opening up monstering to any player who wishes to help out. We will provide additional details on the nature of the skirmishes, the exact times, and kit requirements as part of the Winds of Fortune.</box>		<box>Our Battle Team intend to run two large skirmishes aimed at Navarr in Liathaven at the event. They will take place on Saturday between 18:00 and 19:00. To ensure these encounters run as intended we are opening up monstering to any player who wishes to help out. We will provide additional details on the nature of the skirmishes, the exact times, and kit requirements as part of the Winds of Fortune.</box>
	==Audio Recording==		==Audio Recording==
	Ian Horne has worked with volunteers to create audio recordings of the Winds of War, and upload them to YouTube.		Ian Horne has worked with volunteers to create audio recordings of the Winds of War, and upload them to YouTube.

Twiggy at 15:22, 16 March 2026

2026-03-16T15:22:30Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:22, 16 March 2026
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	For their part, the orcs seem eager to face the Empire in battle. They are here to conquer, not to defend their gains. These orcs are no strangers to the Empire - they have fought them in dread Liathaven, in the hills of Kahraman, in the marches of Kallavesa... and the haunted ruins of the Mournwold.		For their part, the orcs seem eager to face the Empire in battle. They are here to conquer, not to defend their gains. These orcs are no strangers to the Empire - they have fought them in dread Liathaven, in the hills of Kahraman, in the marches of Kallavesa... and the haunted ruins of the Mournwold.
	<div style="float:right; width: 450px;"><quote by="Marius Woodville-Talbot, General of the Tusks">Right Tusks. Clean your wounds, sharpen bills, and fledge arrows. We leave the horror of Liathaven behind us to meet our old enemy, the Jotun, in the North. We march to our allies & neighbours in Sermersuaq. Conducting a Steady Conquest to take back that cold soil! When we fight, we allow the Jotun to recover the bodies. I want them so full of goose fledged bodkins it will be like they recover hedgehogs!! Kit up, prepare to march once more.</quote></div>		<div style="float:right; width: 450px;"><quote by="Marius Woodville-Talbot, General of the Tusks">Right Tusks. Clean your wounds, sharpen bills, and fledge arrows. We leave the horror of Liathaven behind us to meet our old enemy, the Jotun, in the North. We march to our allies & neighbours in Sermersuaq. Conducting a Steady Conquest to take back that cold soil! When we fight, we allow the Jotun to recover the bodies. I want them so full of goose fledged bodkins it will be like they recover hedgehogs!! Kit up, prepare to march once more.</quote></div>
	It quickly becomes apparent that they had expected the Empire to be on the defensive - parts of their strategy only make sense with that in mind. Some of their forces move north, led by the Queen of Kalsea herself, attempting to flank Atalaq and its defenders. They march around the shores of the ~~Atkonartoq~~, seeking to come down toward Atalaq from the [[Sermersuaq#Suaq Fount\|Suaq Fount]]. They are perhaps a little surprised to find the Bounders and the Fire of the South moving to intercept them rather than remaining in defensive positions.		It quickly becomes apparent that they had expected the Empire to be on the defensive - parts of their strategy only make sense with that in mind. Some of their forces move north, led by the Queen of Kalsea herself, attempting to flank Atalaq and its defenders. They march around the shores of the Atkonaroq, seeking to come down toward Atalaq from the [[Sermersuaq#Suaq Fount\|Suaq Fount]]. They are perhaps a little surprised to find the Bounders and the Fire of the South moving to intercept them rather than remaining in defensive positions.
	{{Anchor\|Ford of Berusen}}		{{Anchor\|Ford of Berusen}}
	At the same time, the King of Narkyst leads an advance of twenty thousand orcs aiming straight for the walls of Atalaq, obviously intending to overrun the defenders. The approach from the west is slightly limited - a thick corridor of land between the ~~Atkonartoq~~ to the north and the Rikkivesi to the south. Before they can reach the town, they must capture the crossing point over the wide waterway that connects the two lakes - the Ford of Berusen.		At the same time, the King of Narkyst leads an advance of twenty thousand orcs aiming straight for the walls of Atalaq, obviously intending to overrun the defenders. The approach from the west is slightly limited - a thick corridor of land between the Atkonaroq to the north and the Rikkivesi to the south. Before they can reach the town, they must capture the crossing point over the wide waterway that connects the two lakes - the Ford of Berusen.

	Three armies take the vanguard - the Fist of Ulven under the King himself, the doughty heavily-armoured Shield of the Mountain, and the glorious Mandowla's Roar. They are supported by the Iron Host and the Fell Hammers, whose relentless advance to either side of the main push threatens to engulf the Imperial forces, requiring them to fight on three fronts at once - but fight they do. The Tusks, the Fire of the South, and the two armies of Wintermark, prepare to intercept the Jotun attack.		Three armies take the vanguard - the Fist of Ulven under the King himself, the doughty heavily-armoured Shield of the Mountain, and the glorious Mandowla's Roar. They are supported by the Iron Host and the Fell Hammers, whose relentless advance to either side of the main push threatens to engulf the Imperial forces, requiring them to fight on three fronts at once - but fight they do. The Tusks, the Fire of the South, and the two armies of Wintermark, prepare to intercept the Jotun attack.

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial Military Council" to "[[Military Council"

2026-01-15T12:24:38Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Military Council" to "[[Military Council"

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:24, 15 January 2026
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	===Game Information - Madruga and Kahraman===		===Game Information - Madruga and Kahraman===
	Madruga is entirely in Imperial control once more. There are fifty Grendel prisoners in a makeshift pen on the island of Mariposa in Free Landing, including their commander Innevia, daughter of Moorvain. A decision will need to be made about what to do with them. The [[~~Imperial~~ Military Council]] will most likely be called upon to make this decision. There seem to be three likely outcomes. The orcs could simply be executed - they are barbarians after all. They could be released, given a boat and told them to go home. Or someone could try and negotiate with the Grendel somehow for a suitable ransom. Regardless of what is done, if they are still prisoners by the end of the Summer Solstice, they will need to be fed and watered and Freeborn guards employed to keep an eye on them. This will be paid for out of the Imperial treasury, and is estimated to cost 2 Thrones each season until the prisoners are dealt with.		Madruga is entirely in Imperial control once more. There are fifty Grendel prisoners in a makeshift pen on the island of Mariposa in Free Landing, including their commander Innevia, daughter of Moorvain. A decision will need to be made about what to do with them. The [[Military Council]] will most likely be called upon to make this decision. There seem to be three likely outcomes. The orcs could simply be executed - they are barbarians after all. They could be released, given a boat and told them to go home. Or someone could try and negotiate with the Grendel somehow for a suitable ransom. Regardless of what is done, if they are still prisoners by the end of the Summer Solstice, they will need to be fed and watered and Freeborn guards employed to keep an eye on them. This will be paid for out of the Imperial treasury, and is estimated to cost 2 Thrones each season until the prisoners are dealt with.

	In Kahraman, Jotun conquerors have have claimed everything of note in Serra Damata with the exception of Damata itself, and the Damatian Cliffs that overlook it. Without the garrison at Fort Braydon, they would have taken the entire region and likely have made some headway into [[Kahraman#Gambit\|Gambit]] or (more likely, judging on past campaigns) [[Kahraman#Serra_Briante\|Serra Briante]]. At the same time the Hierro and the army beneath the bear banner have been doing their best to conquer Serra Damata, the Corazón have been extensively raiding all across the Freeborn territory.		In Kahraman, Jotun conquerors have have claimed everything of note in Serra Damata with the exception of Damata itself, and the Damatian Cliffs that overlook it. Without the garrison at Fort Braydon, they would have taken the entire region and likely have made some headway into [[Kahraman#Gambit\|Gambit]] or (more likely, judging on past campaigns) [[Kahraman#Serra_Briante\|Serra Briante]]. At the same time the Hierro and the army beneath the bear banner have been doing their best to conquer Serra Damata, the Corazón have been extensively raiding all across the Freeborn territory.
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	The final conjunction presents an opportunity to reach Firehand's Taiga in the northern reaches of [[Sermersuaq#Sealtoq\|Sealtoq]], [[Sermersuaq]]. A large number of refugees from Atalaq have fled the eastward Jotun advance but are now trapped between the barbarians and the shores of Atkonaroq.		The final conjunction presents an opportunity to reach Firehand's Taiga in the northern reaches of [[Sermersuaq#Sealtoq\|Sealtoq]], [[Sermersuaq]]. A large number of refugees from Atalaq have fled the eastward Jotun advance but are now trapped between the barbarians and the shores of Atkonaroq.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Debate.jpg\|title=The final decision about which major conjunctions to exploit, and who will take part in the battles, is the heavy responsibility of the Imperial Military Council alone.\|caption=Human destiny is our own.\|align=right\|width=500}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Debate.jpg\|title=The final decision about which major conjunctions to exploit, and who will take part in the battles, is the heavy responsibility of the Imperial Military Council alone.\|caption=Human destiny is our own.\|align=right\|width=500}}
	By the time of the Summer Solstice summit, the Civil Service will have completed reports for each of these conjunctions, which will be presented to the generals during the [[Muster]]. The final decision about which major conjunctions to exploit, and who will take part in the battles, is the heavy responsibility of the [[~~Imperial~~ Military Council]] alone.		By the time of the Summer Solstice summit, the Civil Service will have completed reports for each of these conjunctions, which will be presented to the generals during the [[Muster]]. The final decision about which major conjunctions to exploit, and who will take part in the battles, is the heavy responsibility of the [[Military Council]] alone.

	A duo of large conjunctions have also been detected early on the Saturday evening of the Summer Solstice. Both of these will allow transit to a Spring [[regio]] named as the Green Maw in the depths of the [[Liathaven#Westwood\|Westwood]], in [[Liathaven]]. Interestingly, the two conjunctions appear to open in quick succession, one after the other, although the precise nature of the conjunctions is still being examined.		A duo of large conjunctions have also been detected early on the Saturday evening of the Summer Solstice. Both of these will allow transit to a Spring [[regio]] named as the Green Maw in the depths of the [[Liathaven#Westwood\|Westwood]], in [[Liathaven]]. Interestingly, the two conjunctions appear to open in quick succession, one after the other, although the precise nature of the conjunctions is still being examined.

Twiggy at 17:43, 24 September 2025

2025-09-24T17:43:49Z

Twiggy at 01:31, 7 August 2025

2025-08-07T01:31:39Z

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	All told, then, some fifteen thousand Imperial troops, perhaps the same again in soldiers fighting beneath heroes' banners, and nine thousand gilded sanguine knights against sixty thousand orc invaders, on the plains around Atalaq.		All told, then, some fifteen thousand Imperial troops, perhaps the same again in soldiers fighting beneath heroes' banners, and nine thousand gilded sanguine knights against sixty thousand orc invaders, on the plains around Atalaq.

	Sermersuaq is the largest of the Imperial territories, and the Jotun already control nearly a third of it. It is large, but much of it is empty save for the beasts and the wind soughing through the trees, whispering across the tundra. Places like Atalaq are useful, in a way, because they give the armies something to fight over. And fight they do. The Empire is not here to defend - to draw a line and seek to hide behind it. They are here to ''drive the Jotun out''! Their strategy is careful, ~~minimizing~~ unnecessary casualties - on both sides - but it is intended to push the orcs back.		Sermersuaq is the largest of the Imperial territories, and the Jotun already control nearly a third of it. It is large, but much of it is empty save for the beasts and the wind soughing through the trees, whispering across the tundra. Places like Atalaq are useful, in a way, because they give the armies something to fight over. And fight they do. The Empire is not here to defend - to draw a line and seek to hide behind it. They are here to ''drive the Jotun out''! Their strategy is careful, minimising unnecessary casualties - on both sides - but it is intended to push the orcs back.

	For their part, the orcs seem eager to face the Empire in battle. They are here to conquer, not to defend their gains. These orcs are no strangers to the Empire - they have fought them in dread Liathaven, in the hills of Kahraman, in the marches of Kallavesa... and the haunted ruins of the Mournwold.		For their part, the orcs seem eager to face the Empire in battle. They are here to conquer, not to defend their gains. These orcs are no strangers to the Empire - they have fought them in dread Liathaven, in the hills of Kahraman, in the marches of Kallavesa... and the haunted ruins of the Mournwold.

Twiggy at 13:14, 16 July 2025

2025-07-16T13:14:56Z

Twiggy at 17:46, 11 July 2025

2025-07-11T17:46:17Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:46, 11 July 2025
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	By the time of the Summer Solstice summit, the Civil Service will have completed reports for each of these conjunctions, which will be presented to the generals during the [[Muster]]. The final decision about which major conjunctions to exploit, and who will take part in the battles, is the heavy responsibility of the [[Imperial Military Council]] alone.		By the time of the Summer Solstice summit, the Civil Service will have completed reports for each of these conjunctions, which will be presented to the generals during the [[Muster]]. The final decision about which major conjunctions to exploit, and who will take part in the battles, is the heavy responsibility of the [[Imperial Military Council]] alone.

	A duo of large conjunctions have also been detected early on the Saturday evening of the Summer Solstice. Both of these will allow transit to a Spring [[regio]] named as the Green Maw in the depths of the [[Liathaven#~~West Wood~~\|~~West Wood~~]], in [[Liathaven]]. Interestingly, the two conjunctions appear to open in quick succession, one after the other, although the precise nature of the conjunctions is still being examined.		A duo of large conjunctions have also been detected early on the Saturday evening of the Summer Solstice. Both of these will allow transit to a Spring [[regio]] named as the Green Maw in the depths of the [[Liathaven#Westwood\|Westwood]], in [[Liathaven]]. Interestingly, the two conjunctions appear to open in quick succession, one after the other, although the precise nature of the conjunctions is still being examined.

	Imperial prognosticators are preparing additional information relating to a number of smaller conjunctions over the course of the summit that will be of relevance to the Military Council, individuals from the various nations, and other parties. A summary of the identified conjunctions will be provided nearer the summit, with additional details passed to national egregores, [[Herald of the Council]] and the Imperial War Scouts.		Imperial prognosticators are preparing additional information relating to a number of smaller conjunctions over the course of the summit that will be of relevance to the Military Council, individuals from the various nations, and other parties. A summary of the identified conjunctions will be provided nearer the summit, with additional details passed to national egregores, [[Herald of the Council]] and the Imperial War Scouts.

Twiggy at 22:00, 10 July 2025

2025-07-10T22:00:32Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:00, 10 July 2025
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	The Drakes are in [[Madruga]], fighting the remaining [[Grendel]] for control of the islands around [[Madruga#Atalaya\|Atalaya]]. They are supported by [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] [[corsair\|corsairs]] and fisherfolk alike, ferried across the hungry sea in boats and ships pressed into service as troop transports. There is significant grumbling on both sides - the [[the Marches\|Marchers]] do not enjoy the boats and the Freeborn do not enjoy having to turn aside from their business to deliver soldiers to their destinations. Both groups enjoy having Grendel on Imperial soil even less, however, and so the matter is dealt with expeditiously - so the Drakes can get back to dry land and the Freeborn sailors get back to work.		The Drakes are in [[Madruga]], fighting the remaining [[Grendel]] for control of the islands around [[Madruga#Atalaya\|Atalaya]]. They are supported by [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] [[corsair\|corsairs]] and fisherfolk alike, ferried across the hungry sea in boats and ships pressed into service as troop transports. There is significant grumbling on both sides - the [[the Marches\|Marchers]] do not enjoy the boats and the Freeborn do not enjoy having to turn aside from their business to deliver soldiers to their destinations. Both groups enjoy having Grendel on Imperial soil even less, however, and so the matter is dealt with expeditiously - so the Drakes can get back to dry land and the Freeborn sailors get back to work.

	Thanks to the efforts of Imperial heroes who [[Sentinel Gate\|struck]] at [[Everything_has_rhythm#Stone_Born_Stand_Solid\|key targets]] during the Spring Equinox, there is little fight left in the [[orc\|orcs]]. Those who remain on the Brass Coast are mainly chancers, risking everything for a chance to make a profit or build a name for themselves. They are no match for the disciplined Marcher army. The situation is slightly different on the island of Atalaya - there is a solid core of Grendel troops here who do their best to to resist the army of Tom Drake - but they are outmatched, outnumbered, and outclassed.		Thanks to the efforts of Imperial heroes who [[Sentinel Gate\|struck]] at [[Everything_has_rhythm#Stone_Born_Stand_Solid\|key targets]] during the Spring Equinox, there is little fight left in the [[orc\|orcs]]. Those who remain on the Brass Coast are mainly chancers, risking everything for a chance to make a profit or build a name for themselves. They are no match for the disciplined Marcher army. The situation is slightly different on the island of Atalaya - there is a solid core of Grendel troops here who do their best to resist the army of Tom Drake - but they are outmatched, outnumbered, and outclassed.
	<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><quote by="Will Talbot, General of the Drakes">My merry lads and lasses, those cheeky Grendel so-and-so's have been baring their arse cheeks and giving us for the last month. Their time si up. We're going to board the skiffs of our Freeborn allies and sweep the arrogant bastards from Atalaya. Slow and steady though, we don't know what traps they've laid so make sure we preserve marches lives in this steady conquest. Let them flee across the Bay if they wish, there are Corsairs in these waters no doubt, hungry for payback. Once we're done, time for foot the ball on the beach. Mitwold town Forever!</quote></div>		<div style="float:right; width: 450px; clear: right;"><quote by="Will Talbot, General of the Drakes">My merry lads and lasses, those cheeky Grendel so-and-so's have been baring their arse cheeks and giving us for the last month. Their time si up. We're going to board the skiffs of our Freeborn allies and sweep the arrogant bastards from Atalaya. Slow and steady though, we don't know what traps they've laid so make sure we preserve marches lives in this steady conquest. Let them flee across the Bay if they wish, there are Corsairs in these waters no doubt, hungry for payback. Once we're done, time for foot the ball on the beach. Mitwold town Forever!</quote></div>
	When it becomes clear they will fail to hold the Freeborn town, the Grendel garrison simply surrenders - to the surprise of many. By this point there are perhaps fifty Grendel left; their commander opens the gates of the town, and offers her spear to the first Marcher captain she sees. The orcs are currently corralled in a makeshift pen on the small island of Mariposa - the Freeborn will not suffer them to remain on Atalaya, not after all they have done and the Drakes are somewhat at a loss to know what to do with them. The captain - Innevia, daughter of Moorvain - is quite up-front about her orders, seeing no reason to conceal them. They expected the armada to return, she says. They were to hold Atalaya and [[Madruga#Free Landing\|Free Landing]] as a beachhead against a more sizeable Grendel force returning. No such force has arrived. Presumably something happened to change the plans of the Salt Lords.		When it becomes clear they will fail to hold the Freeborn town, the Grendel garrison simply surrenders - to the surprise of many. By this point there are perhaps fifty Grendel left; their commander opens the gates of the town, and offers her spear to the first Marcher captain she sees. The orcs are currently corralled in a makeshift pen on the small island of Mariposa - the Freeborn will not suffer them to remain on Atalaya, not after all they have done and the Drakes are somewhat at a loss to know what to do with them. The captain - Innevia, daughter of Moorvain - is quite up-front about her orders, seeing no reason to conceal them. They expected the armada to return, she says. They were to hold Atalaya and [[Madruga#Free Landing\|Free Landing]] as a beachhead against a more sizeable Grendel force returning. No such force has arrived. Presumably something happened to change the plans of the Salt Lords.

Thespaceinvader: /* A Light in the Darkness (Sermersuaq) */

2025-04-16T16:37:28Z

A Light in the Darkness (Sermersuaq)

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:37, 16 April 2025
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	It has been a little while since the waters of [[Sermersuaq]] last ran with [[Rivers of Life\|enchanted life]]. Not since the Empire and the [[orc\|orcs]] of [[Otkodov]] contended over the [[Sermersuaq#Silver Peaks\|Silver Peaks]]. Three years, almost exactly, since the power of [[Spring magic\|Spring]] sang in the waters. Barely a blink of the eye, and the waters burgeon with healing power once again. Barely a turning of the seasons in the circles of life and death. Once again, the magic is in place. The [[curse]] that brings life to the injured, and health and fecundity to the beasts and the plants, settled over Sermersuaq like a cloak.		It has been a little while since the waters of [[Sermersuaq]] last ran with [[Rivers of Life\|enchanted life]]. Not since the Empire and the [[orc\|orcs]] of [[Otkodov]] contended over the [[Sermersuaq#Silver Peaks\|Silver Peaks]]. Three years, almost exactly, since the power of [[Spring magic\|Spring]] sang in the waters. Barely a blink of the eye, and the waters burgeon with healing power once again. Barely a turning of the seasons in the circles of life and death. Once again, the magic is in place. The [[curse]] that brings life to the injured, and health and fecundity to the beasts and the plants, settled over Sermersuaq like a cloak.
	<div style="float:right; width: 450px;"><quote by="Llofyn Bloodcloak, General of the Bloodcloaks">Troops will be reminded of the honourable and heroic heritage of the Bloodcloak army, reminded that Winterfolk fight as heroes not just soldiers. All fallen Jotun should be treated with respect and allowed to be collected by their compatriots for honourable burial.</quote></div>		<div style="float:right; width: 450px;"><quote by="Llofyn Bloodcloak, General of the Bloodcloaks">Troops will be reminded of the honourable and heroic heritage of the Bloodcloak army, reminded that Winterfolk fight as heroes not just soldiers. All fallen Jotun should be treated with respect and allowed to be collected by their compatriots for honourable burial.</quote></div>
	After the Winter Solstice, there were some eighteen thousand [[Jotun]] in western Sermersuaq. With their way prepared by the Ice Fishers of Ldansk, the force has already captured Stark and pushed into Tanikipari. At the Spring Equinox, a large force of [[Elite_Jotun_troops#The_Kirkja\|kirkja]] descended from the hills above ~~the~~ the [[Sermersuaq#Tanikipari\|Hot Springs of Taniki]], capturing the settlement, and swiftly pressing their advantage. With little to stop them the Jotun had secured control of the entire region within a week of the Solstice ending.		After the Winter Solstice, there were some eighteen thousand [[Jotun]] in western Sermersuaq. With their way prepared by the Ice Fishers of Ldansk, the force has already captured Stark and pushed into Tanikipari. At the Spring Equinox, a large force of [[Elite_Jotun_troops#The_Kirkja\|kirkja]] descended from the hills above the [[Sermersuaq#Tanikipari\|Hot Springs of Taniki]], capturing the settlement, and swiftly pressing their advantage. With little to stop them the Jotun had secured control of the entire region within a week of the Solstice ending.

	The armies of the Western orcs then turn their attention to [[Sermersuaq#Sealtoq\|Sealtoq]]. The most hospitable [[territory#Regions\|region]] of Sermersuaq, Sealtoq is also the site of Atalaq, the largest permanent settlement in ~~the~~ the entire [[territory]]. A gathering place for the hunters who follow the Suaq traditions, a place of cunning and craft where whale-followers, walrus-farmers, [[Wintermark_magical_traditions#Icewalkers\|icewalkers]], and [[Mundane_beasts#Mammoths\|mammoth]]-herders return after long treks north. With the Silver Peaks in the hands of the [[Thule]], it represents the greatest concentration of wealth in the entire northern territory. As [[Kallavesa#Rundhal\|Rundhal]] is to the [[Kallavesi]], and [[Hahnmark#Kalpaheim\|Kalpaheim]] is to the [[Steinr]], so Atalaq is to the Suaq - the heart of their tradition. It is defended - hunters returning from the northern plains, warriors driven south and east by the advance of the Jotun, all have gathered at Atalaq. The Jotun will have a fight on their hands if they try to take it with only eighteen thousand warriors!		The armies of the Western orcs then turn their attention to [[Sermersuaq#Sealtoq\|Sealtoq]]. The most hospitable [[territory#Regions\|region]] of Sermersuaq, Sealtoq is also the site of Atalaq, the largest permanent settlement in the entire [[territory]]. A gathering place for the hunters who follow the Suaq traditions, a place of cunning and craft where whale-followers, walrus-farmers, [[Wintermark_magical_traditions#Icewalkers\|icewalkers]], and [[Mundane_beasts#Mammoths\|mammoth]]-herders return after long treks north. With the Silver Peaks in the hands of the [[Thule]], it represents the greatest concentration of wealth in the entire northern territory. As [[Kallavesa#Rundhal\|Rundhal]] is to the [[Kallavesi]], and [[Hahnmark#Kalpaheim\|Kalpaheim]] is to the [[Steinr]], so Atalaq is to the Suaq - the heart of their tradition. It is defended - hunters returning from the northern plains, warriors driven south and east by the advance of the Jotun, all have gathered at Atalaq. The Jotun will have a fight on their hands if they try to take it with only eighteen thousand warriors!
	<div style="float:right; width: 450px;"><quote by="Theoderic Ulfarsson, General of the Fist of the Mountain">Troop will be told to remember and follow the honourable way of engaging foes. Honour Duels will be encouraged. Bodies of the fallen will be allowed to be recovered, and treated with respect.</quote></div>		<div style="float:right; width: 450px;"><quote by="Theoderic Ulfarsson, General of the Fist of the Mountain">Troop will be told to remember and follow the honourable way of engaging foes. Honour Duels will be encouraged. Bodies of the fallen will be allowed to be recovered, and treated with respect.</quote></div>
	Except they do not have eighteen thousand warriors. Not any more. The first sightings of the Jotun reinforcements are deeply worrying; the reports of scouts and hunters are dismissed by some as exaggeration at first. Yet the truth is as bad as it can be. Another ''fifty thousand'' orcs have come to Sermersuaq. The banners of the King of Narkyst and the Queen of Kalsea at their head - both the Jarl of Jarls of the north, and of the south, are here with their honour guard and their warriors, and maybe six thousand kirkja and champions of the Jotun.		Except they do not have eighteen thousand warriors. Not any more. The first sightings of the Jotun reinforcements are deeply worrying; the reports of scouts and hunters are dismissed by some as exaggeration at first. Yet the truth is as bad as it can be. Another ''fifty thousand'' orcs have come to Sermersuaq. The banners of the King of Narkyst and the Queen of Kalsea at their head - both the Jarl of Jarls of the north, and of the south, are here with their honour guard and their warriors, and maybe six thousand kirkja and champions of the Jotun.

Dre at 21:50, 13 May 2024

2024-05-13T21:50:47Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:43, 24 September 2025
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	There are also a handful of slaves who were Imperial soldiers, [[Wintermark\|Winterfolk]] and Varushkans especially. Taken prisoner in battle and pressed into service, they . As with the magicians of Urizen, however, the majority of these people have been sent elsewhere. There is a great demand for strong, disciplined warriors both to work in the salt and the mithril mines, and to spill out their blood for the amusement of the Grendel in the arena.		There are also a handful of slaves who were Imperial soldiers, [[Wintermark\|Winterfolk]] and Varushkans especially. Taken prisoner in battle and pressed into service, they . As with the magicians of Urizen, however, the majority of these people have been sent elsewhere. There is a great demand for strong, disciplined warriors both to work in the salt and the mithril mines, and to spill out their blood for the amusement of the Grendel in the arena.

	Finally, there are a small number of people among the freed population who speak little [[Languages#English\|Imperial]]. Once translators can be brought in, they are discovered to be slaves from the [[Asavean Archipelago]]. They are not slaves of the Grendel, for the most part. Rather they appear to be the slaves of an Asavean collaborating with the Grendel - a representative of the Tarquinius family of [[Asavean_Archipelago_ports#Nemoria\|Nemoria]]. That powerful [[Asavean_Archipelago#Politics\|Plenum]] family, it seems, has been trading white granite and slaves to the Grendel - importing the valuable building material to a number of places but most especially to Apulian. Asavean quarries provided the stone used to build the ~~fortifcation~~ here - a fortification that was in the process of being enlarged when the Empire tore it apart. Without exception, these freed slaves ask for sanctuary in the Empire.		Finally, there are a small number of people among the freed population who speak little [[Languages#English\|Imperial]]. Once translators can be brought in, they are discovered to be slaves from the [[Asavean Archipelago]]. They are not slaves of the Grendel, for the most part. Rather they appear to be the slaves of an Asavean collaborating with the Grendel - a representative of the Tarquinius family of [[Asavean_Archipelago_ports#Nemoria\|Nemoria]]. That powerful [[Asavean_Archipelago#Politics\|Plenum]] family, it seems, has been trading white granite and slaves to the Grendel - importing the valuable building material to a number of places but most especially to Apulian. Asavean quarries provided the stone used to build the fortification here - a fortification that was in the process of being enlarged when the Empire tore it apart. Without exception, these freed slaves ask for sanctuary in the Empire.
	<div style="float:right; width: 450px;"><quote by="Michelangelo Garcian de Sarvos, General of the Wolves of War">We make a Steady Conquest through Apstrus, Ateri and finally to Apulus. The Grendel's backs are broken, now we push to drive them to the coast and out of spiral once and for all. It's time to settle sore reckonings, let's to it!</quote></div>		<div style="float:right; width: 450px;"><quote by="Michelangelo Garcian de Sarvos, General of the Wolves of War">We make a Steady Conquest through Apstrus, Ateri and finally to Apulus. The Grendel's backs are broken, now we push to drive them to the coast and out of spiral once and for all. It's time to settle sore reckonings, let's to it!</quote></div>
	There is a single Asavean ship left in the harbour, and when Imperial troops move to board it a handful of soldiers attempt to stop them. An argument ensues, blades are drawn. Blood is spilled. Their master - Leri Tarquinius - is dragged kicking and screaming from the captain's cabin. The Tarquinius does not seem to appreciate the gravity of his situation - he is arrogant and condescending. He demands to be allowed to leave once the storm has died down, to return to his peoples' embassy in Dubhtraig. He wants to take his slaves, of course, and also his shipment of white granite. A quick inspection discovers that the cargo hold of his vessel is weighted down with fifteen wains of white granite, which he claims quite vociferously are the property of the Tarquinius family for which he has not been paid. He is taken into custody for his own safety, before anything unfortunate can happen to him.		There is a single Asavean ship left in the harbour, and when Imperial troops move to board it a handful of soldiers attempt to stop them. An argument ensues, blades are drawn. Blood is spilled. Their master - Leri Tarquinius - is dragged kicking and screaming from the captain's cabin. The Tarquinius does not seem to appreciate the gravity of his situation - he is arrogant and condescending. He demands to be allowed to leave once the storm has died down, to return to his peoples' embassy in Dubhtraig. He wants to take his slaves, of course, and also his shipment of white granite. A quick inspection discovers that the cargo hold of his vessel is weighted down with fifteen wains of white granite, which he claims quite vociferously are the property of the Tarquinius family for which he has not been paid. He is taken into custody for his own safety, before anything unfortunate can happen to him.
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	It is fortunate, then, that the hunters are not alone.		It is fortunate, then, that the hunters are not alone.
	<div style="float:right; width: 450px;"><quote by="Marciel i Riqueza, General of the Fire of the South"> I come to you in a time of mourning, but it is not our way to be morose, so lets give our former general an appropriate celebration to usher him through the ~~labyrith~~. Face the Jotun with honesty, with honour, and with your steel. Life is short, let it never be dull!</quote></div>		<div style="float:right; width: 450px;"><quote by="Marciel i Riqueza, General of the Fire of the South"> I come to you in a time of mourning, but it is not our way to be morose, so lets give our former general an appropriate celebration to usher him through the labyrinth. Face the Jotun with honesty, with honour, and with your steel. Life is short, let it never be dull!</quote></div>
	The Bloodcloaks, mustered at last, come north through the marshes of Kallavesa. With them march three thousand shining [[Knights of Glory\|knights from the Fields of Glory]], champions of [[Eleonaris]] called by Summer magic. The knights are impressive enough - attired in golden chain with fine fur cloaks, razor-sharp spears, and crimson-stained circular shields - but their number is dwarfed by nearly three times as many soldiers beneath the banners of the independent armies of the Empire. Together, this sea of warriors gives the Bloodcloaks alone the strength of three whole armies!		The Bloodcloaks, mustered at last, come north through the marshes of Kallavesa. With them march three thousand shining [[Knights of Glory\|knights from the Fields of Glory]], champions of [[Eleonaris]] called by Summer magic. The knights are impressive enough - attired in golden chain with fine fur cloaks, razor-sharp spears, and crimson-stained circular shields - but their number is dwarfed by nearly three times as many soldiers beneath the banners of the independent armies of the Empire. Together, this sea of warriors gives the Bloodcloaks alone the strength of three whole armies!

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	As they begin to establish a base camp at Atalaq, they are joined by the flamboyant Fire of the South. Marching from [[Astolat]] in the east, this doughty army makes excellent time and is barely winded by the journey through [[Temeschwar]] and [[Hahnmark]]. They, too, march with three thousand knights of glory, fey warriors all bound up in crimson and gold silk with wicked swords and axes, and scarlet shields engraved with roaring lions. Another fifteen hundred heroes march with them. They begin to send swift-footed scouts out east and north, intercepting Jotun raiders and granting aid to the bands of hunters still returning from the northern hunt.		As they begin to establish a base camp at Atalaq, they are joined by the flamboyant Fire of the South. Marching from [[Astolat]] in the east, this doughty army makes excellent time and is barely winded by the journey through [[Temeschwar]] and [[Hahnmark]]. They, too, march with three thousand knights of glory, fey warriors all bound up in crimson and gold silk with wicked swords and axes, and scarlet shields engraved with roaring lions. Another fifteen hundred heroes march with them. They begin to send swift-footed scouts out east and north, intercepting Jotun raiders and granting aid to the bands of hunters still returning from the northern hunt.

	Finally, tired from their long march north from the mad forest of [[Liathaven]], the [[the Marches\|Marchers]] arrive. Through the familiar fens of [[Bregasland]], and the ghost-haunted swamps of Kallavesa the Tusks and the Bounders have come, without a pause, from their vicious battle against the [[vallorn]] horrors. The coming campaign may be a relief; they are exchanging an unknown, abhorrent foe for one of flesh-and-blood. The Jotun, whatever else they may do, will not turn their own dead against them. The fallen will ~~reest~~ beneath good soil, at least. No majestic heralds accompany the Marchers; but there are four-and-a-half thousand independent Imperial soldiers. Primarily Imperial orcs, Marchers, and Winterfolk, only [[the League]] is not represented. They have put aside national rivalries, bound by a [[Bound by Common Cause\|potent enchantment]] to fight as a single, cohesive army against the Western orcs.		Finally, tired from their long march north from the mad forest of [[Liathaven]], the [[the Marches\|Marchers]] arrive. Through the familiar fens of [[Bregasland]], and the ghost-haunted swamps of Kallavesa the Tusks and the Bounders have come, without a pause, from their vicious battle against the [[vallorn]] horrors. The coming campaign may be a relief; they are exchanging an unknown, abhorrent foe for one of flesh-and-blood. The Jotun, whatever else they may do, will not turn their own dead against them. The fallen will rest beneath good soil, at least. No majestic heralds accompany the Marchers; but there are four-and-a-half thousand independent Imperial soldiers. Primarily Imperial orcs, Marchers, and Winterfolk, only [[the League]] is not represented. They have put aside national rivalries, bound by a [[Bound by Common Cause\|potent enchantment]] to fight as a single, cohesive army against the Western orcs.
	<div style="float:right; width: 450px;"><quote by="Black Jack, General of the Bounders">Particular care to fight the Jotun ~~Hourouably~~, recovery of the fallen</quote></div>		<div style="float:right; width: 450px;"><quote by="Black Jack, General of the Bounders">Particular care to fight the Jotun Honourably, recovery of the fallen</quote></div>
	All told, then, some fifteen thousand Imperial troops, perhaps the same again in soldiers fighting beneath heroes' banners, and nine thousand gilded sanguine knights against sixty thousand orc invaders, on the plains around Atalaq.		All told, then, some fifteen thousand Imperial troops, perhaps the same again in soldiers fighting beneath heroes' banners, and nine thousand gilded sanguine knights against sixty thousand orc invaders, on the plains around Atalaq.

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	The King of the South leads the charge from the west, while the Queen of the North brings her troops down more cautiously. The defenders of Atalaq are supported both by the magic in the waters and by an open-air hospital established by the healers from the five Imperial armies at the centre of Atalaq. By nightfall on the first day of fighting it looks as if the Empire will be able to hold, thanks to the independent captains and the forces of Eleonaris and the power of the waters. But by noon on the second day, as the Jotun take the western side of the town, that hope begins to fade. By sunset, defeat is a certainty. There is a hurried council of war, and the next morning the retreat from Atalaq begins.		The King of the South leads the charge from the west, while the Queen of the North brings her troops down more cautiously. The defenders of Atalaq are supported both by the magic in the waters and by an open-air hospital established by the healers from the five Imperial armies at the centre of Atalaq. By nightfall on the first day of fighting it looks as if the Empire will be able to hold, thanks to the independent captains and the forces of Eleonaris and the power of the waters. But by noon on the second day, as the Jotun take the western side of the town, that hope begins to fade. By sunset, defeat is a certainty. There is a hurried council of war, and the next morning the retreat from Atalaq begins.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Great Deeds Are Eternal.jpg\|caption=Great deed are eternal.\|align=left\|width=500}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Great Deeds Are Eternal.jpg\|caption=Great deed are eternal.\|align=left\|width=500}}
	It is no frenzied rout, but a disciplined ~~withdrawl~~ east, fighting every step. The Iron Host and the Fell Hammers do their best to harry the Imperials, feinting at their flanks and continuing to press them, while the rest of the Jotun army regroups at Atalaq. Twice the Empire tries to halt their retreat and push back, twice they gain a little ground, twice they fall back again. They are eventually pushed all the way east out of Sealtoq, into East Floes.		It is no frenzied rout, but a disciplined withdrawal east, fighting every step. The Iron Host and the Fell Hammers do their best to harry the Imperials, feinting at their flanks and continuing to press them, while the rest of the Jotun army regroups at Atalaq. Twice the Empire tries to halt their retreat and push back, twice they gain a little ground, twice they fall back again. They are eventually pushed all the way east out of Sealtoq, into East Floes.

	The Jotun do not cease their advance, they do not rest on their laurels. They continue to press eastward, pursuing the Imperial host onto the wide plains beneath the mountains of Hahnmark and Skarsind. There are no more pitched battles - although Imperial and orc forces clash several times - but the Jotun slowly but surely begin to drive the Empire back across East Floes. A second base of operations is established around the great ruined ship at Wreck, and serious plans for withdrawing east through Pakaanan's Pass or south to the North Spires are discussed.		The Jotun do not cease their advance, they do not rest on their laurels. They continue to press eastward, pursuing the Imperial host onto the wide plains beneath the mountains of Hahnmark and Skarsind. There are no more pitched battles - although Imperial and orc forces clash several times - but the Jotun slowly but surely begin to drive the Empire back across East Floes. A second base of operations is established around the great ruined ship at Wreck, and serious plans for withdrawing east through Pakaanan's Pass or south to the North Spires are discussed.
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	===Game Information - Sermersuaq===		===Game Information - Sermersuaq===
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Alone.jpg\|caption=You cannot armour the soul.\|align=right\|width=500}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Alone.jpg\|caption=You cannot armour the soul.\|align=right\|width=500}}
	The Jotun have conquered Sealtoq, and along with Stark and Tanikipari they control three of the seven regions and have made some headway into the East Floes. The Thule control the ~~SIlver~~ Peaks, leaving the Empire with only three regions - East Floes, Suaq Fount, and the Suaq Wastes. Sermersuaq is no longer an Imperial territory - it is now considered neutral, under nobody's control. The Senator for Sermersuaq - Atte - has lost his seat in the Senate, and the territory can no longer be targeted from the Imperial regio.		The Jotun have conquered Sealtoq, and along with Stark and Tanikipari they control three of the seven regions and have made some headway into the East Floes. The Thule control the Silver Peaks, leaving the Empire with only three regions - East Floes, Suaq Fount, and the Suaq Wastes. Sermersuaq is no longer an Imperial territory - it is now considered neutral, under nobody's control. The Senator for Sermersuaq - Atte - has lost his seat in the Senate, and the territory can no longer be targeted from the Imperial regio.

	The ability of Wintermark to supply their armies has been decreased by one with the loss of Sermersuaq. Fortunately, [[Coming home\|recent events]] in the marshes of Kallavesa mean they are still able to sustain their three existing armies.		The ability of Wintermark to supply their armies has been decreased by one with the loss of Sermersuaq. Fortunately, [[Coming home\|recent events]] in the marshes of Kallavesa mean they are still able to sustain their three existing armies.
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	It is obvious to everyone fighting in the territory that the Wintermark armies are going out of their way to fight the Jotun with honour - as Gunnbrand Ironwill [[The_mother_of_morality#Gaze_Into_The_Abyss\|urged them to do]]. This has resulted in less casualties among the Jotun, but has meant they have gained less ground in their conquest of Sermersuaq. The strategies ordered by the Marcher and Freeborn armies have not been quite so obvious, but it are unlikely to have gone unnoticed.		It is obvious to everyone fighting in the territory that the Wintermark armies are going out of their way to fight the Jotun with honour - as Gunnbrand Ironwill [[The_mother_of_morality#Gaze_Into_The_Abyss\|urged them to do]]. This has resulted in less casualties among the Jotun, but has meant they have gained less ground in their conquest of Sermersuaq. The strategies ordered by the Marcher and Freeborn armies have not been quite so obvious, but it are unlikely to have gone unnoticed.

	The [[Pride_of_Ikka's_Tears\|Pride of Ikka's Tears]] has not been damaged - it is still an Imperial Bourse seat for the moment, a national position controlled by Algar of Ashenhall. In the event that the Jotun conquer East Floes, however, it will be impossible to get the mithril from the mine in the north of Sermersuaq to an Imperial region without the assistance of the Thule in the ~~SIlver~~ Peaks. if this happens, the mithril will be stockpiled at the Pride of Ikka's Tears - unless the Senate orders that the workers withdraw (meaning no mithril will be produced, but they will need to pay no upkeep).		The [[Pride_of_Ikka's_Tears\|Pride of Ikka's Tears]] has not been damaged - it is still an Imperial Bourse seat for the moment, a national position controlled by Algar of Ashenhall. In the event that the Jotun conquer East Floes, however, it will be impossible to get the mithril from the mine in the north of Sermersuaq to an Imperial region without the assistance of the Thule in the Silver Peaks. if this happens, the mithril will be stockpiled at the Pride of Ikka's Tears - unless the Senate orders that the workers withdraw (meaning no mithril will be produced, but they will need to pay no upkeep).

	The capture of Atalaq is a serious blow to the Suaq people and may have further consequences.		The capture of Atalaq is a serious blow to the Suaq people and may have further consequences.

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:14, 16 July 2025
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	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Flowers.jpg\|caption=Where there is darkness, we will make light.\|align=left\|width=500}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Flowers.jpg\|caption=Where there is darkness, we will make light.\|align=left\|width=500}}
	==Death Masks (Overview)==		==Death Masks (Overview)==
	During the Spring Equinox 382YE, a great tragedy struck the heroes of the Empire. A battle in the shadow of the Black Plateau against the Grendel ended in a pyrrhic victory. The field was won, but many courageous people bought that victory with their lives. Spirits cast back into the Labyrinth, to wander for a time, and then to be reborn. The Empire will miss their strength. Grief touches many hearts. But grief does not slow the turning of the wheel of time. Its enemies care nothing for the sorrow of the Empire.		During the Spring Equinox 382YE, a great tragedy struck the heroes of the Empire. A battle in the shadow of the {{Black Plateau}} against the Grendel ended in a pyrrhic victory. The field was won, but many courageous people bought that victory with their lives. Spirits cast back into the Labyrinth, to wander for a time, and then to be reborn. The Empire will miss their strength. Grief touches many hearts. But grief does not slow the turning of the wheel of time. Its enemies care nothing for the sorrow of the Empire.

	[[382YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#Devil_Take_the_Hindmost_.28Brass_Coast.29\|In the south-west]], on [[the Brass Coast]] the Grendel are driven conclusively from [[Madruga]]... only for the [[Jotun]] to move armies into [[Kahraman]]. When they were defeated during their last sortie, the Jotun promised to return, and return they have. Only the garrison of Fort Braydon slows their advance, preventing them from seizing both Serra Damata and the Damatian Cliffs.		[[382YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#Devil_Take_the_Hindmost_.28Brass_Coast.29\|In the south-west]], on [[the Brass Coast]] the Grendel are driven conclusively from [[Madruga]]... only for the [[Jotun]] to move armies into [[Kahraman]]. When they were defeated during their last sortie, the Jotun promised to return, and return they have. Only the garrison of Fort Braydon slows their advance, preventing them from seizing both Serra Damata and the Damatian Cliffs.
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	All told, a little over three hundred Imperial troops are lost fighting the Grendel, primarily during the assault on Apulian. A further one and a quarter ''thousand'' are lost to the malign influence, to the nightmares. Some die, or are killed, or kill themselves but many more survive long enough to desert, even though they are driven to howling madness and bloodthirsty violence. The orcs of the Summer Storm are a little more able to endure its influence than their human companions, able to resist any urging to turn on their fellows... but this simply means that when they ''do'' lose control they do it in groups.		All told, a little over three hundred Imperial troops are lost fighting the Grendel, primarily during the assault on Apulian. A further one and a quarter ''thousand'' are lost to the malign influence, to the nightmares. Some die, or are killed, or kill themselves but many more survive long enough to desert, even though they are driven to howling madness and bloodthirsty violence. The orcs of the Summer Storm are a little more able to endure its influence than their human companions, able to resist any urging to turn on their fellows... but this simply means that when they ''do'' lose control they do it in groups.

	It seems impossible to judge, but far from abating the storm of madness that swirls around the plateau has gained strength. There is nothing like the horror that swept over Solen's Doubt, but rather a slow intensification of malice and dread that hangs like a thick fog over everything. With each execution, with each crucifixion, with each mass-hanging or impalement by the Iron Helms, the shadow of the ~~<span style="color:#2F4F4F; background:#D3D3D3 ">~~Black Plateau~~</span>~~ deepens, seeping into everything... including the spirits of those who fight in the territory.		It seems impossible to judge, but far from abating the storm of madness that swirls around the plateau has gained strength. There is nothing like the horror that swept over Solen's Doubt, but rather a slow intensification of malice and dread that hangs like a thick fog over everything. With each execution, with each crucifixion, with each mass-hanging or impalement by the Iron Helms, the shadow of the {{Black Plateau}} deepens, seeping into everything... including the spirits of those who fight in the territory.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Behind the Lines.jpg\|caption=The human spirit is immortal.\|align=left\|width=500}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Behind the Lines.jpg\|caption=The human spirit is immortal.\|align=left\|width=500}}
	===Game Information - Spiral===		===Game Information - Spiral===
	The Empire controls Ateri and Apstrus, but is only three-fifths of the way toward conquering Apulus. This success means that the Citadel Guard are no longer in danger of disbanding.		The Empire controls Ateri and Apstrus, but is only three-fifths of the way toward conquering Apulus. This success means that the Citadel Guard are no longer in danger of disbanding.

	The Black Plateau continues to influence the territory, and that influence has become even more powerful as the season has worn on. Next season, every Imperial or Grendel campaign army fighting in the territory will suffer 30% additional casualties, and will lose 10% of its maximum strength over the course of the season even if it is not engaged.		The {{Black Plateau}} continues to influence the territory, and that influence has become even more powerful as the season has worn on. Next season, every Imperial or Grendel campaign army fighting in the territory will suffer 30% additional casualties, and will lose 10% of its maximum strength over the course of the season even if it is not engaged.

	Finally, Imperial forces have captured an Asavean dignitary and 15 wains of white granite that apparently belong to the powerful Tarquinius family. Leri Tarquinius is in custody for his own safety, but is quite adamant that while the white granite was to be sold to the Grendel, they have not actually paid for it and so it remains the property of his family. He is demanding to be released and allowed to return to Nemoria with all fifteen wains.		Finally, Imperial forces have captured an Asavean dignitary and 15 wains of white granite that apparently belong to the powerful Tarquinius family. Leri Tarquinius is in custody for his own safety, but is quite adamant that while the white granite was to be sold to the Grendel, they have not actually paid for it and so it remains the property of his family. He is demanding to be released and allowed to return to Nemoria with all fifteen wains.
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	===Participation - Spiral===		===Participation - Spiral===
	As with last season, anyone who wishes to roleplay there were present during the recent campaign is free to create their own horror stories of things they have encountered, based around themes of creeping fear, haunting phantasms, eerie dreams, gnawing suspicion, and outbursts of uncontrolled anger. As the campaign escalates, these experiences become more visceral, and more horrific - although any player character is assumed to have sufficient mental fortitude to have resisted the worst excesses caused by the malignant force of the Black Plateau.		As with last season, anyone who wishes to roleplay there were present during the recent campaign is free to create their own horror stories of things they have encountered, based around themes of creeping fear, haunting phantasms, eerie dreams, gnawing suspicion, and outbursts of uncontrolled anger. As the campaign escalates, these experiences become more visceral, and more horrific - although any player character is assumed to have sufficient mental fortitude to have resisted the worst excesses caused by the malignant force of the {{Black Plateau}}.

	Every player whose [[military unit]] supported an army in Spiral this season, and the [[general\|generals]] of those armies, will receive a curse card in their packs at the event representing the oppression of the Black Plateau.		Every player whose [[military unit]] supported an army in Spiral this season, and the [[general\|generals]] of those armies, will receive a curse card in their packs at the event representing the oppression of the {{Black Plateau}}.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Blood and Stone.jpg\|caption=The Virtuous inspire others to greatness; they do not demean them.\|align=left\|width=500}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Blood and Stone.jpg\|caption=The Virtuous inspire others to greatness; they do not demean them.\|align=left\|width=500}}