Fire and the flood - Revision history

Novemberalice at 19:25, 30 March 2026

2026-03-30T19:25:01Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:25, 30 March 2026
Line 3:		Line 3:

	==War in the East==		==War in the East==
			{{audio\|link= https://youtu.be/o0E-v6ZN-ss?si=YndfxMfJFd9S2mT8}}
	Sarangrave has been freed from the Druj. For the first time in centuries it is not under the oppressive boot-heel of the Buruk Tepel and their Het proxies. In theory at least, it is now Imperial; the Senate has [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Assign_Sarangrave\|declared]] the wetlands are now part of [[Urizen]]. Yet as Autumn lengthens into Winter there is little sign of Urizen settlers establishing [[spire\|spires]] here. Hardly a surprise given it is still a battlefield, torn between multiple factions.		Sarangrave has been freed from the Druj. For the first time in centuries it is not under the oppressive boot-heel of the Buruk Tepel and their Het proxies. In theory at least, it is now Imperial; the Senate has [[387YE_Autumn_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Assign_Sarangrave\|declared]] the wetlands are now part of [[Urizen]]. Yet as Autumn lengthens into Winter there is little sign of Urizen settlers establishing [[spire\|spires]] here. Hardly a surprise given it is still a battlefield, torn between multiple factions.

Dre at 22:34, 20 March 2026

2026-03-20T22:34:49Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:34, 20 March 2026
Line 47:		Line 47:
	For all their cunning and cruelty, though, they are outmatched by the great host of Imperials. If it were just the garrison, just the people of the Marshlizard clan, and the refugees from the Thornwasp and the Banded Snake who have sought refuge in the fens, then the Tower of the Skink and the sprawling town of sepals would swiftly be overrun by the Imperial armies. The Empire knew that the [[Druj armies#Poison Crane\|Poison Crane]] and the [[Druj armies#Hidden Snake\|Hidden Snake]] - the warriors of the Marshlizard and the Banded Snake - had taken up positions in Thornfen, in the Tower. Their presence makes the advance more difficult, but still it is likely the Empire would easily press them back. Unfortunately, there are another six armies of the Mallum in Thornfen this season that the Imperial strategy does not entirely account for.		For all their cunning and cruelty, though, they are outmatched by the great host of Imperials. If it were just the garrison, just the people of the Marshlizard clan, and the refugees from the Thornwasp and the Banded Snake who have sought refuge in the fens, then the Tower of the Skink and the sprawling town of sepals would swiftly be overrun by the Imperial armies. The Empire knew that the [[Druj armies#Poison Crane\|Poison Crane]] and the [[Druj armies#Hidden Snake\|Hidden Snake]] - the warriors of the Marshlizard and the Banded Snake - had taken up positions in Thornfen, in the Tower. Their presence makes the advance more difficult, but still it is likely the Empire would easily press them back. Unfortunately, there are another six armies of the Mallum in Thornfen this season that the Imperial strategy does not entirely account for.

	Earlier in the year, the armies that had conquered [[Therunin]] moved south, [[Root_and_branch#Dark_Beneath_the_Boughs\|making a foray]] into northern [[Zenith]]. They cast down the [[Zenith#The_Stork's_Gaze_(Ruined)\|Stork's Gaze]] but were in their turn cast down by an [[Even_darkness_must_pass#All_Seem_Accursed\|Imperial counterattack]]. Caught between the armies in Zenith and those in Bloodwater Marsh, their situation looked desperate. Unfortunately, the [[Druj armies#Tainted Basilisk\|Tainted Basilisk]] were among them, an army ~~lead~~ by [[Druj_lore#Ghulai\|ghulai]] trained at the [[Sarangrave#Palace_of_the_Sleepers\|Palace of the Sleepers]]. Twisted masters of [[Night magic]], as well as the magic of Spring, they have saved the Druj armies from Zenith [[The_darkest_road#Last_Light_of_the_Sun_(Battle)\|once before]]. Using an [[enchantment]] similar to that practiced by certain secretive Varushkan [[cabalists]], they wrapped themselves and the other armies in a veil of shadows that allowed them to pass through the Imperial forces in eastern and southern Sarangrave and make it to the Tower of the Skink without losses.		Earlier in the year, the armies that had conquered [[Therunin]] moved south, [[Root_and_branch#Dark_Beneath_the_Boughs\|making a foray]] into northern [[Zenith]]. They cast down the [[Zenith#The_Stork's_Gaze_(Ruined)\|Stork's Gaze]] but were in their turn cast down by an [[Even_darkness_must_pass#All_Seem_Accursed\|Imperial counterattack]]. Caught between the armies in Zenith and those in Bloodwater Marsh, their situation looked desperate. Unfortunately, the [[Druj armies#Tainted Basilisk\|Tainted Basilisk]] were among them, an army led by [[Druj_lore#Ghulai\|ghulai]] trained at the [[Sarangrave#Palace_of_the_Sleepers\|Palace of the Sleepers]]. Twisted masters of [[Night magic]], as well as the magic of Spring, they have saved the Druj armies from Zenith [[The_darkest_road#Last_Light_of_the_Sun_(Battle)\|once before]]. Using an [[enchantment]] similar to that practiced by certain secretive Varushkan [[cabalists]], they wrapped themselves and the other armies in a veil of shadows that allowed them to pass through the Imperial forces in eastern and southern Sarangrave and make it to the Tower of the Skink without losses.

	They are battered, weakened, but not broken - not yet. Some have no choice but to be here; their septs are in Sarangrave and if they abandon their ancestral lands to the Empire they will wither and die. No Buruk Tepel, no Het, will countenance such a fate. Better to die with your teeth in the throat of your enemy than to go quietly into the night! The other armies have no choice but to be here, forced to choose between destruction in Zenith or a desperate fight in Sarangrave, in some ways they have exchanged one prison for another. At least they have a fighting chance here. Or at least a chance of persuading the Tainted Basilisk to weave their enchantment again so that they may escape to safety in the Salt Flats to the north		They are battered, weakened, but not broken - not yet. Some have no choice but to be here; their septs are in Sarangrave and if they abandon their ancestral lands to the Empire they will wither and die. No Buruk Tepel, no Het, will countenance such a fate. Better to die with your teeth in the throat of your enemy than to go quietly into the night! The other armies have no choice but to be here, forced to choose between destruction in Zenith or a desperate fight in Sarangrave, in some ways they have exchanged one prison for another. At least they have a fighting chance here. Or at least a chance of persuading the Tainted Basilisk to weave their enchantment again so that they may escape to safety in the Salt Flats to the north
Line 158:		Line 158:
	This season Eleonaris dispatched the stoic ''Ser Gaspare'' to lead their heavily armoured forces into battle alongside the Golden Axe. While there have been a great many military captains fighting alongside the Golden Axe, the strategies they chose to employ this season have not resonated especially well with the knights of glory. They have told tales around the fire, and fought as they always do, but there has been less passionate fervour for them to inspire. Indeed, it does not seem entirely in the character of ''Ser Gaspare'' or his ''Summer schlacta'' to inspire individual soldiers in battle in the way some of the other knights of Eleonaris do. Rather, the herald and their soldiers have focused on the Golden Axe army itself.		This season Eleonaris dispatched the stoic ''Ser Gaspare'' to lead their heavily armoured forces into battle alongside the Golden Axe. While there have been a great many military captains fighting alongside the Golden Axe, the strategies they chose to employ this season have not resonated especially well with the knights of glory. They have told tales around the fire, and fought as they always do, but there has been less passionate fervour for them to inspire. Indeed, it does not seem entirely in the character of ''Ser Gaspare'' or his ''Summer schlacta'' to inspire individual soldiers in battle in the way some of the other knights of Eleonaris do. Rather, the herald and their soldiers have focused on the Golden Axe army itself.

	Last season the [[Even_darkness_must_pass#The_Weight_of_Glory\|increased impact]] of the [[Knights of Glory]] enchantment was made apparent. As happened in the reign of [[Empress Brannan]], repeated exposure to the glorious knights of the Summer realm is having an unlooked for effect on Imperial soldiers. The excitement of fighting in the Mallum is starting to affect the Empire’s loyal warriors - possibly because of the oppressive aura of fear coupled with the feeling of pride and strength exposure to the heralds of the Fields of Glory brings. But also because the Knights of Glory are so effective at inspiring those who fight alongside them to pursue glory and heroism over mere victory or survival.		Last season the [[Even_darkness_must_pass#The_Weight_of_Glory\|increased impact]] of the [[Knights of Glory]] enchantment was made apparent. As happened in the reign of [[Empress Brannan]], repeated exposure to the glorious knights of the Summer realm is having an unlooked-for effect on Imperial soldiers. The excitement of fighting in the Mallum is starting to affect the Empire’s loyal warriors - possibly because of the oppressive aura of fear coupled with the feeling of pride and strength exposure to the heralds of the Fields of Glory brings. But also because the Knights of Glory are so effective at inspiring those who fight alongside them to pursue glory and heroism over mere victory or survival.

	The Golden Axe was one of the armies already affected by this growing attunement with aspects of the Summer realm. They continue to be unable to take the [[Army orders#Cautious Advance\|Cautious Advance]] or [[Army orders#Give Ground\|Give Ground]] orders. If the [[general]] issues such an order it will default to [[Army orders#Balanced Attack\|Balanced Attack]] or [[Army orders#Solid Defence\|Solid Defence]] instead. This effect will persist until the army has spent an entire year without experiencing the Knights of Glory enchantment (each of the affected armies tracks this separately). It may be possible to ameliorate this effect by other means, but it is not clear quite how this might be done. The national or virtue assemblies of the Imperial Synod may be able to assist in this matter, perhaps with a suitably worded statement of principle.		The Golden Axe was one of the armies already affected by this growing attunement with aspects of the Summer realm. They continue to be unable to take the [[Army orders#Cautious Advance\|Cautious Advance]] or [[Army orders#Give Ground\|Give Ground]] orders. If the [[general]] issues such an order it will default to [[Army orders#Balanced Attack\|Balanced Attack]] or [[Army orders#Solid Defence\|Solid Defence]] instead. This effect will persist until the army has spent an entire year without experiencing the Knights of Glory enchantment (each of the affected armies tracks this separately). It may be possible to ameliorate this effect by other means, but it is not clear quite how this might be done. The national or virtue assemblies of the Imperial Synod may be able to assist in this matter, perhaps with a suitably worded statement of principle.

Hailmur: /* Game Information */

2026-02-19T13:52:48Z

Game Information

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:52, 19 February 2026
Line 131:		Line 131:
	* '''The Shield of Ipotavo support the Empire from the southern side of the Tower of the Skink		* '''The Shield of Ipotavo support the Empire from the southern side of the Tower of the Skink
	* '''The independent rebels, the former slaves and free septs, continue to harry the Druj		* '''The independent rebels, the former slaves and free septs, continue to harry the Druj
	Imperial forces have achieved a dual victory; they have pushed forward into Thornfen and are three-tenths of the way toward claiming the region. They have also managed to prevent the attacking Druj force from out of the Salt Flats re-establishing any control over the northern Sarangrave. The northern armies have been pushed back into the Salt Flats, but a major force of Druj remains trapped in Thornfen defending the region alongside the Tower of the Skink fortification.		Imperial forces have achieved a dual victory; they have pushed forward into Thornfen and are three-tenths of the way toward claiming the region. They have also managed to prevent the attacking Druj force from out of the Salt Flats re-establishing any control over the northern Sarangrave. The northern armies have been pushed back into the Salt Flats, but a major force of Druj remains trapped in Thornfen, defending the region alongside the Tower of the Skink fortification.

	The Shield of Ipotavo out of Axos support the Empire's attack, focusing their efforts on the Tower and its garrison. The magic employed by both sides has allowed them to effectively coordinate their strategies against the Druj.		The Shield of Ipotavo out of Axos support the Empire's attack, focusing their efforts on the Tower and its garrison. The magic employed by both sides has allowed them to effectively coordinate their strategies against the Druj.
Line 139:		Line 139:
	The new fortification rules come into effect at the start of the Winter Solstice, which have implications for further fighting in Thornfen. This season has seen the [[fortification#Bastion\|bastion]] take some damage, and the [[fortification#garrison\|garrison]] be somewhat depleted, but the presence of so many armies in Sarangrave has meant that the impact on the Tower of the Skink has been comparatively minor. Our rules team is currently putting together a short [[Rules update 2026\|update]] as to how the transition to the new fortification rules will affect existing campaigns, which we anticipate being presented shortly. We're asking people to hold off on queries until this goes up.		The new fortification rules come into effect at the start of the Winter Solstice, which have implications for further fighting in Thornfen. This season has seen the [[fortification#Bastion\|bastion]] take some damage, and the [[fortification#garrison\|garrison]] be somewhat depleted, but the presence of so many armies in Sarangrave has meant that the impact on the Tower of the Skink has been comparatively minor. Our rules team is currently putting together a short [[Rules update 2026\|update]] as to how the transition to the new fortification rules will affect existing campaigns, which we anticipate being presented shortly. We're asking people to hold off on queries until this goes up.

	While the territory has been granted to Urizen by the Senate, it is still an active warzone. At the moment, no Urizen citizens ~~are setting~~ up new spires in the lowland marshes and forests. The civil service has also struggled to do more than make a surface assessment of the territory, thanks to the ongoing fighting and the fact that there are still miasma pillars and Druj guerrillas even in areas the Empire nominally controls. More information about the situation in the Sarangrave, with reference to the rebels, and its role as a new Urizen territory, will be included in the winds of fortune nearer the event.		While the territory has been granted to Urizen by the Senate, it is still an active warzone. At the moment, only a handful of prominent [[Urizen_groups\|Urizen citizens]] have set up new spires in the lowland marshes and forests. The civil service has also struggled to do more than make a surface assessment of the territory, thanks to the ongoing fighting and the fact that there are still miasma pillars and Druj guerrillas even in areas the Empire nominally controls. More information about the situation in the Sarangrave, with reference to the rebels, and its role as a new Urizen territory, will be included in the winds of fortune nearer the event.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=EleonarisArt.jpg\|align=right\|width=250}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=EleonarisArt.jpg\|align=right\|width=250}}
	===Participation: Murmastis and the Storm Song===		===Participation: Murmastis and the Storm Song===

GuiltyConscience: /* Shield of Our Ancestors */

2026-02-16T21:57:31Z

Shield of Our Ancestors

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:57, 16 February 2026
Line 103:		Line 103:
	Many years ago Imperial mercenaries helped the Shield of Ipotavo drive the Druj out of Axos, back to the Tower of the Skink. They helped break a siege no less terrible, it is said, than the one Holberg once endured. This past aid has not been forgotten, and now the Axou come as allies in this battle against their old foe. This is not an army that is battle-weary as the Imperial armies are, and they are veterans at facing the incursions of the Mallum. Perhaps unique among the folk of Axos, the people of Ipotavo know what the Druj are, and the threat they represent.		Many years ago Imperial mercenaries helped the Shield of Ipotavo drive the Druj out of Axos, back to the Tower of the Skink. They helped break a siege no less terrible, it is said, than the one Holberg once endured. This past aid has not been forgotten, and now the Axou come as allies in this battle against their old foe. This is not an army that is battle-weary as the Imperial armies are, and they are veterans at facing the incursions of the Mallum. Perhaps unique among the folk of Axos, the people of Ipotavo know what the Druj are, and the threat they represent.
	<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Alikos Helio.jpg\|align=right\|width=300}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Alikos Helio.jpg\|align=right\|width=300}}</div>
	Most of the soldiers are of the [[Axos#Axou_Military_Concerns\|Agema]] class: they are dressed in dark neatly-cut leathers, almost all equipped with the crescent shield and the long, thin sword favoured by these heavy ~~skirmisher~~. In their vanguard, they deploy a battalion of the undying [[Axos#Axou_Military_Concerns\|Tavos Ageli]], masked in porcelain, silent, almost impossible to harm much less kill. The body of the army is supported by sable-robed ''necromantia'' some of whom are said to come not from Ipotavo but scholarly [[Axos#Halls of Maykop\|Maykop]], their services purchased for some unknown price. Not that Ipotavo is without magicians of its own, but among the citadels, the practitioners of Maykop are recognised as true masters of the arts of death and the spirit.		Most of the soldiers are of the [[Axos#Axou_Military_Concerns\|Agema]] class: they are dressed in dark neatly-cut leathers, almost all equipped with the crescent shield and the long, thin sword favoured by these heavy skirmishers. In their vanguard, they deploy a battalion of the undying [[Axos#Axou_Military_Concerns\|Tavos Ageli]], masked in porcelain, silent, almost impossible to harm much less kill. The body of the army is supported by sable-robed ''necromantia'' some of whom are said to come not from Ipotavo but scholarly [[Axos#Halls of Maykop\|Maykop]], their services purchased for some unknown price. Not that Ipotavo is without magicians of its own, but among the citadels, the practitioners of Maykop are recognised as true masters of the arts of death and the spirit.

	The Tavos Ageli are not the only undying allies the Axou have brought. At dusk and dawn, ''other'' figures wander amongst the living. Wispy shapes, translucent in the first and last rays of the sun, in burial shroud and tattered robe and ceremonial armour. They offer advice and guidance to the soldiers and officers of the Shield. When a few scouts are able to make it through the southern mountains to liaise with the commanders of the Axos force, the commanders insist on discussing strategy only in the fading twilight where the ghostly figures offer wisdom only the Axou seem to hear. These spirits are apparently veterans themselves, soldiers and officers from every major engagement with the Druj going back centuries. In the end, one Axou captain remarks, there are only so many trials that the Creator can set before you. There are few battles that have never been fought before.		The Tavos Ageli are not the only undying allies the Axou have brought. At dusk and dawn, ''other'' figures wander amongst the living. Wispy shapes, translucent in the first and last rays of the sun, in burial shroud and tattered robe and ceremonial armour. They offer advice and guidance to the soldiers and officers of the Shield. When a few scouts are able to make it through the southern mountains to liaise with the commanders of the Axos force, the commanders insist on discussing strategy only in the fading twilight where the ghostly figures offer wisdom only the Axou seem to hear. These spirits are apparently veterans themselves, soldiers and officers from every major engagement with the Druj going back centuries. In the end, one Axou captain remarks, there are only so many trials that the Creator can set before you. There are few battles that have never been fought before.

GuiltyConscience: /* Jarangir's Levy */

2026-02-16T21:55:14Z

Jarangir's Levy

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:55, 16 February 2026
Line 89:		Line 89:
	It's not clear who breaks the levy, swollen as it is with the heavy rains of winter. Some say it was a band of the Summer Storm, seeing the opportunity to wash away the Druj and win the day. Others say it was the warriors of the Flame Beetle, bringing their siege expertise to bear on the task of defeating the Empire. But breached it is, and what starts as a trickle of water swiftly turns into a deluge. Again, though, the discipline of the Empire sets them in better stead as the floodwaters cascade into the lowlands. The Lions of Adelmar in particular are responsible for saving dozens of lives, unconcerned whether those they aid are Dawnish, Unshackled, or from any other background. The Druj, though, deploy the age-old tactic of "everyone for themselves" and they suffer for it.		It's not clear who breaks the levy, swollen as it is with the heavy rains of winter. Some say it was a band of the Summer Storm, seeing the opportunity to wash away the Druj and win the day. Others say it was the warriors of the Flame Beetle, bringing their siege expertise to bear on the task of defeating the Empire. But breached it is, and what starts as a trickle of water swiftly turns into a deluge. Again, though, the discipline of the Empire sets them in better stead as the floodwaters cascade into the lowlands. The Lions of Adelmar in particular are responsible for saving dozens of lives, unconcerned whether those they aid are Dawnish, Unshackled, or from any other background. The Druj, though, deploy the age-old tactic of "everyone for themselves" and they suffer for it.

	But the damage is done. The Imperial forces are scattered their lines fractured by the need to avoid the waters, and the Druj are ''much'' more experienced fighting in these marshy conditions. It looks bleak for the Empire. Very bleak.		But the damage is done. The Imperial forces are scattered, their lines fractured by the need to avoid the waters, and the Druj are ''much'' more experienced fighting in these marshy conditions. It looks bleak for the Empire. Very bleak.

	Then half the Druj forces, the Marshlizard garrison, the Poison Crane and the Tainted Basilisk, the Flame Beetle and the Jagged Claws suddenly break off. Rather than push their advantage, they take the ''Path of the Tail'' southwards at speed. The remaining forces - Hidden Snake, Hunting Scorpion, and red-painted Thorn Born - do their best to take advantage of the Empire's disarray but before they can do so the Imperial soldiers have regrouped and present an impenetrable forest of spears and swords and shields.		Then half the Druj forces, the Marshlizard garrison, the Poison Crane and the Tainted Basilisk, the Flame Beetle and the Jagged Claws suddenly break off. Rather than push their advantage, they take the ''Path of the Tail'' southwards at speed. The remaining forces - Hidden Snake, Hunting Scorpion, and red-painted Thorn Born - do their best to take advantage of the Empire's disarray but before they can do so the Imperial soldiers have regrouped and present an impenetrable forest of spears and swords and shields.
Line 97:		Line 97:
	General Vasiliki Terricos sends her regards and anticipates the northern approach goes well. The Shield of Ipotavo has commenced its assault against the Tower of the Skink, and the General hopes to meet with the western armies soon.		General Vasiliki Terricos sends her regards and anticipates the northern approach goes well. The Shield of Ipotavo has commenced its assault against the Tower of the Skink, and the General hopes to meet with the western armies soon.
	<div style="float:right; width: 600px; clear: left;"><quote by="Vasiliki Terricos, General of the Shield of Ipotavo">The Sorcerer-Queen Ipotavo used to say: know your heart and what commands its devotion above all else. Listen. Do you hear the whispers of the spirits? Hear their words and know your heart and keep your oaths. We march in the name of the survivors of the siege. We march in the name of faithfulness to those that helped deliver us from the scorpion. Do not listen to gossiping snakes and traitors. They have forgotten the faces of the dead. </quote></div>		<div style="float:right; width: 600px; clear: left;"><quote by="Vasiliki Terricos, General of the Shield of Ipotavo">The Sorcerer-Queen Ipotavo used to say: know your heart and what commands its devotion above all else. Listen. Do you hear the whispers of the spirits? Hear their words and know your heart and keep your oaths. We march in the name of the survivors of the siege. We march in the name of faithfulness to those that helped deliver us from the scorpion. Do not listen to gossiping snakes and traitors. They have forgotten the faces of the dead. </quote></div>

	==Shield of Our Ancestors==		==Shield of Our Ancestors==
	Up the ''Path of the Eye'' they march, soldiers clad in dark greens and purples. They have siege engines, and they approach the southern gates of the Tower of the Skink with grim resolve. This is the ''Shield of Ipotavo'', the soldiers who watch the [[Axos#Gates_of_Ipotavo\|Gates]] of [[Axos]]. They have been waiting for this opportunity for quite some time and plan to make the most of it.		Up the ''Path of the Eye'' they march, soldiers clad in dark greens and purples. They have siege engines, and they approach the southern gates of the Tower of the Skink with grim resolve. This is the ''Shield of Ipotavo'', the soldiers who watch the [[Axos#Gates_of_Ipotavo\|Gates]] of [[Axos]]. They have been waiting for this opportunity for quite some time and plan to make the most of it.

GuiltyConscience: /* Echoes of Magic */

2026-02-16T21:46:08Z

Echoes of Magic

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:46, 16 February 2026
Line 38:		Line 38:
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Dame Katelyn.jpg\|caption='''Dame Katelyn Quinnell De Cordraco''', General of the Lions of Adelmar\|align=left\|width=250}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Dame Katelyn.jpg\|caption='''Dame Katelyn Quinnell De Cordraco''', General of the Lions of Adelmar\|align=left\|width=250}}
	</div>		</div>
	Meanwhile ''Ser Gaspare'' leads the proud ''schlacta'' of their domain to fight alongside the Golden Axe. In crimson plate, wrapped in a cloak made from the head and skin of an immense white bear, Gaspare has an undeniable presence and a very different attitude to many of the other more elfin knights the Varushkans have ~~found~~ beside in the past. With their unbreakable adamant shields and their mighty axes, the warriors of Gaspare are less concerned with glory and splendour than they are with ''victory''. The captain does not try to conceal their disappointment at the tactics the Golden Axe have chosen; they fight as enthusiastically but at night around the fires they share stories of triumph and the joy of conquest, of the Vard and their iron spirits who tamed the wild forests, whose legacy remains the greatest nation of the Empire. Gaspare themselves clearly speaks from personal experience, and their words catch on something in the hearts of the audience that lingers.		Meanwhile ''Ser Gaspare'' leads the proud ''schlacta'' of their domain to fight alongside the Golden Axe. In crimson plate, wrapped in a cloak made from the head and skin of an immense white bear, Gaspare has an undeniable presence and a very different attitude to many of the other more elfin knights the Varushkans have fought beside in the past. With their unbreakable adamant shields and their mighty axes, the warriors of Gaspare are less concerned with glory and splendour than they are with ''victory''. The captain does not try to conceal their disappointment at the tactics the Golden Axe have chosen; they fight as enthusiastically but at night around the fires they share stories of triumph and the joy of conquest, of the Vard and their iron spirits who tamed the wild forests, whose legacy remains the greatest nation of the Empire. Gaspare themselves clearly speaks from personal experience, and their words catch on something in the hearts of the audience that lingers.

	These words linger not only in the hearts of the Golden Axe themselves; a great host of Imperial captains has gathered under the banners of the Golden Axe, fighting and marching with them. A matching host has come together to fight with the Summer Storm. They too hear the stories of Ser Gaspare and the songs of Murmastis and as the Imperial advance grinds forward, soldiers of every stripe chafe at the bit, eager to engage with the orcs of Thornfen.		These words linger not only in the hearts of the Golden Axe themselves; a great host of Imperial captains has gathered under the banners of the Golden Axe, fighting and marching with them. A matching host has come together to fight with the Summer Storm. They too hear the stories of Ser Gaspare and the songs of Murmastis and as the Imperial advance grinds forward, soldiers of every stripe chafe at the bit, eager to engage with the orcs of Thornfen.

Twiggy at 20:22, 16 February 2026

2026-02-16T20:22:25Z

Twiggy: /* Echoes of Magic */

2026-02-16T20:08:10Z

Echoes of Magic

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:08, 16 February 2026
Line 30:		Line 30:

	==Echoes of Magic==		==Echoes of Magic==
	Three of the armies are [[enchantment\|~~enhanted~~]] with the [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]], using [[Day magic]] to coordinate their movements and identify weaknesses in the enemy defences. The Summer Storm and the Golden Axe, however, are instead accompanied by cohorts of the [[Knights of Glory]] drawn from the [[Realms#Summer\|Summer realm]]. The warriors of [[Eleonaris]] embrace the fight against the Druj. As far as the sovereigns of the Summer realm are concerned, the Mallum is a den of vermin. Indeed, the ''Lady of Pennants'' has sent two of her favoured captains to fight in Thornfen, and they bring their households with them.		Three of the armies are [[enchantment\|enchanted]] with the [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]], using [[Day magic]] to coordinate their movements and identify weaknesses in the enemy defences. The Summer Storm and the Golden Axe, however, are instead accompanied by cohorts of the [[Knights of Glory]] drawn from the [[Realms#Summer\|Summer realm]]. The warriors of [[Eleonaris]] embrace the fight against the Druj. As far as the sovereigns of the Summer realm are concerned, the Mallum is a den of vermin. Indeed, the ''Lady of Pennants'' has sent two of her favoured captains to fight in Thornfen, and they bring their households with them.

	To the Summer Storm comes ''Murmastis'', whose deeds are legend in the Summer realm and so she requires no courtly honorific. Stag-horned, taller than the tallest orc, this spearmaster is as relentless as those she fights alongside. She and her spear-dancers offer a stark contrast to the Unshackled soldiers, clad as they are in emerald and ruby scale armour. They urge the Imperial Orcs to strike mercilessly against their foe, inspiring them to greater and greater deeds of martial prowess against the loathsome Druj, singing unfamiliar songs of the thrill of pounding blood and the defeat of the unworthy. For some orcs, the experience of battling with Murmastis' warband rouses memories not their own, memories of distant ancestors who fought with the spear-dancers in the past.		To the Summer Storm comes ''Murmastis'', whose deeds are legend in the Summer realm and so she requires no courtly honorific. Stag-horned, taller than the tallest orc, this spearmaster is as relentless as those she fights alongside. She and her spear-dancers offer a stark contrast to the Unshackled soldiers, clad as they are in emerald and ruby scale armour. They urge the Imperial Orcs to strike mercilessly against their foe, inspiring them to greater and greater deeds of martial prowess against the loathsome Druj, singing unfamiliar songs of the thrill of pounding blood and the defeat of the unworthy. For some orcs, the experience of battling with Murmastis' warband rouses memories not their own, memories of distant ancestors who fought with the spear-dancers in the past.
Line 41:		Line 41:

	These words linger not only in the hearts of the Golden Axe themselves; a great host of Imperial captains has gathered under the banners of the Golden Axe, fighting and marching with them. A matching host has come together to fight with the Summer Storm. They too hear the stories of Ser Gaspare and the songs of Murmastis and as the Imperial advance grinds forward, soldiers of every stripe chafe at the bit, eager to engage with the orcs of Thornfen.		These words linger not only in the hearts of the Golden Axe themselves; a great host of Imperial captains has gathered under the banners of the Golden Axe, fighting and marching with them. A matching host has come together to fight with the Summer Storm. They too hear the stories of Ser Gaspare and the songs of Murmastis and as the Imperial advance grinds forward, soldiers of every stripe chafe at the bit, eager to engage with the orcs of Thornfen.

	==Shadow of the Tower==		==Shadow of the Tower==
	On the other side, the [[fortification#garrison\|garrison]] of the Tower of the Skink, warriors of the Marshlizard sept, are cautious indeed. They have underestimated the Empire before, seen them sweep inexorably across Sarangrave breaking sept and shackle with equal ease. They focus their attention on Thornfen alone, leaving the rest of the Sarangrave to fend for itself. There is a kind of discipline in these defenders rarely observed among the Druj, but wedded to an almost overwhelming arrogance. Even when retreating they do nothing to hide their sneering contempt of the Varushkans and the Highborn, for the knights of Dawn, and most of all for the Imperial Orcs who they take pleasure in naming slaves of the Empire. They mock, they taunt, they needle. They attack the Pride of their foes with cutting words even as they assail their bodies with slicing steel. Like all Druj they are happiest striking quickly from surprise, inflicting as many wounds as possible, and then retreating. This has rarely been a particularly efficacious strategy under the Rivers of Life, where leaving anyone alive means they will most likely recover. But if anyone can make it work it is the orcs of the east, and the Marshlizards seem especially versed in inflicting as much pain as possible, or leaving their foes broken beyond salvation rather than simply killing them.		On the other side, the [[fortification#garrison\|garrison]] of the Tower of the Skink, warriors of the Marshlizard sept, are cautious indeed. They have underestimated the Empire before, seen them sweep inexorably across Sarangrave breaking sept and shackle with equal ease. They focus their attention on Thornfen alone, leaving the rest of the Sarangrave to fend for itself. There is a kind of discipline in these defenders rarely observed among the Druj, but wedded to an almost overwhelming arrogance. Even when retreating they do nothing to hide their sneering contempt of the Varushkans and the Highborn, for the knights of Dawn, and most of all for the Imperial Orcs who they take pleasure in naming slaves of the Empire. They mock, they taunt, they needle. They attack the Pride of their foes with cutting words even as they assail their bodies with slicing steel. Like all Druj they are happiest striking quickly from surprise, inflicting as many wounds as possible, and then retreating. This has rarely been a particularly efficacious strategy under the Rivers of Life, where leaving anyone alive means they will most likely recover. But if anyone can make it work it is the orcs of the east, and the Marshlizards seem especially versed in inflicting as much pain as possible, or leaving their foes broken beyond salvation rather than simply killing them.

Hailmur: /* Game Information */

2026-02-16T20:07:12Z

Game Information

Twiggy at 20:06, 16 February 2026

2026-02-16T20:06:56Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:06, 16 February 2026
Line 90:		Line 90:
	But the damage is done. The Imperial forces are scattered their lines fractured by the need to avoid the waters, and the Druj are ''much'' more experienced fighting in these marshy conditions. It looks bleak for the Empire. Very bleak.		But the damage is done. The Imperial forces are scattered their lines fractured by the need to avoid the waters, and the Druj are ''much'' more experienced fighting in these marshy conditions. It looks bleak for the Empire. Very bleak.

	Then half the Druj forces, the Marshlizard garrison, the Poison Crane and the Tainted Basilisk, the Flame Beetle and the Jagged Claws suddenly break off. Rather than push their advantage, they take the ''Path of the Tail'' southwards at speed. The remaining forces - Hidden Snake, Hunting Scorpion, and red-painted ~~Thornborn~~ - do their best to take advantage of the Empire's disarray but before they can do so the Imperial soldiers have regrouped and present an impenetrable forest of spears and swords and shields.		Then half the Druj forces, the Marshlizard garrison, the Poison Crane and the Tainted Basilisk, the Flame Beetle and the Jagged Claws suddenly break off. Rather than push their advantage, they take the ''Path of the Tail'' southwards at speed. The remaining forces - Hidden Snake, Hunting Scorpion, and red-painted Thorn Born - do their best to take advantage of the Empire's disarray but before they can do so the Imperial soldiers have regrouped and present an impenetrable forest of spears and swords and shields.

	It is at this time that a figure appears in the Imperial command tent; a translucent shade of indeterminate gender, face hidden by a deep cowl, brazen chains for a belt, the only part of their body visible being hands that are more bone than flesh. It leaves no tracks on the sodden ground, as it delivers a message in a whispering voice that nonetheless is heard by everyone in the vicinity.		It is at this time that a figure appears in the Imperial command tent; a translucent shade of indeterminate gender, face hidden by a deep cowl, brazen chains for a belt, the only part of their body visible being hands that are more bone than flesh. It leaves no tracks on the sodden ground, as it delivers a message in a whispering voice that nonetheless is heard by everyone in the vicinity.

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:07, 16 February 2026
Line 135:		Line 135:
	The rebellious orcs of the [[Sarangrave#Nesustak_Forest\|Nesustak Forest]] offer some assistance to the Imperial forces, but mostly in terms of offering warnings and helping individual groups avoid the northern Druj. They have committed themselves to [[Military_unit#Raiding\|hunting and killing]] the left-behind barbarians. They protect their own borders, and beyond a mutual interest in resisting the attack out of the Salt Flats, have not reached out to any Imperial armies. An assessment of their strength suggests it is in the order of a half dozen or so [[military unit\|military units]], nothing approaching an army, but they have the support of [[Irra Harah]] (himself barely a friend of the Empire), and aid from Imperial citizens who support their cause.		The rebellious orcs of the [[Sarangrave#Nesustak_Forest\|Nesustak Forest]] offer some assistance to the Imperial forces, but mostly in terms of offering warnings and helping individual groups avoid the northern Druj. They have committed themselves to [[Military_unit#Raiding\|hunting and killing]] the left-behind barbarians. They protect their own borders, and beyond a mutual interest in resisting the attack out of the Salt Flats, have not reached out to any Imperial armies. An assessment of their strength suggests it is in the order of a half dozen or so [[military unit\|military units]], nothing approaching an army, but they have the support of [[Irra Harah]] (himself barely a friend of the Empire), and aid from Imperial citizens who support their cause.

	The new fortification rules come into effect at the start of the Winter Solstice, which have implications for further fighting in Thornfen. This season has seen the [[fortification#Bastion\|bastion]] take some damage, and the [[fortification#garrison\|garrison]] be somewhat depleted, but the presence of so many armies in Sarangrave has meant that the impact on the Tower of the Skink has been comparatively minor. Our rules team is currently putting together a short [[Rules update 2026\|update]] as to how the transition to the new fortification rules will ~~effect~~ existing campaigns which we anticipate being presented shortly. We're asking people to hold off on queries until this goes up.		The new fortification rules come into effect at the start of the Winter Solstice, which have implications for further fighting in Thornfen. This season has seen the [[fortification#Bastion\|bastion]] take some damage, and the [[fortification#garrison\|garrison]] be somewhat depleted, but the presence of so many armies in Sarangrave has meant that the impact on the Tower of the Skink has been comparatively minor. Our rules team is currently putting together a short [[Rules update 2026\|update]] as to how the transition to the new fortification rules will affect existing campaigns, which we anticipate being presented shortly. We're asking people to hold off on queries until this goes up.

	While the territory has been granted to Urizen by the Senate, it is still an active warzone. At the moment, no Urizen citizens are setting up new spires in the lowland marshes and forests. The civil service ~~have~~ also struggled to do more than make a surface assessment of the territory, thanks to the ongoing fighting and the fact that there are still miasma pillars and Druj guerrillas even in areas the Empire nominally controls. More information about the situation in the Sarangrave, with reference to the rebels and its role as a new Urizen territory, will be included in the winds of fortune nearer the event.		While the territory has been granted to Urizen by the Senate, it is still an active warzone. At the moment, no Urizen citizens are setting up new spires in the lowland marshes and forests. The civil service has also struggled to do more than make a surface assessment of the territory, thanks to the ongoing fighting and the fact that there are still miasma pillars and Druj guerrillas even in areas the Empire nominally controls. More information about the situation in the Sarangrave, with reference to the rebels, and its role as a new Urizen territory, will be included in the winds of fortune nearer the event.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=EleonarisArt.jpg\|align=right\|width=250}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=EleonarisArt.jpg\|align=right\|width=250}}
	===Participation: Murmastis and the Storm Song===		===Participation: Murmastis and the Storm Song===
	* '''Soldiers who fought alongside the Summer Storm may experience a magical boon		* '''Soldiers who fought alongside the Summer Storm may experience a magical boon
	''Murmastis'' is one of the champions of [[Eleonaris]], and she and her spear-dancers have fought alongside the Summer Storm. This season the Storm has committed itself to hunting down the Druj and [[Army_qualities#Relentless\|cutting them down]]. While many of the knights of Eleonaris' court are interested in glorious pageantry, Murmastis is a very old [[Inhabitants of the realms#Herald\|herald]] who more exemplifies the [[Summer magic#Resonance\|resonance]] of [[Summer_magic#Wroth\|wroth]]. She does not encourage thoughtless bloodthirst, but rather that fierce joy that comes from triumphing over a foe by might of arms and cleverness.		''Murmastis'' is one of the champions of [[Eleonaris]], and she and her spear-dancers have fought alongside the Summer Storm. This season, the Storm has committed itself to hunting down the Druj and [[Army_qualities#Relentless\|cutting them down]]. While many of the knights of Eleonaris' court are interested in glorious pageantry, Murmastis is a very old [[Inhabitants of the realms#Herald\|herald]] who more exemplifies the [[Summer magic#Resonance\|resonance]] of [[Summer_magic#Wroth\|wroth]]. She does not encourage thoughtless bloodthirst, but rather that fierce joy that comes from triumphing over a foe by might of arms and cleverness.

	Any character whose military unit supported the Summer Storm this season may choose to have embraced the experience of battling alongside Murmastis and her warband. If they do, they receive a particular boon.		Any character whose military unit supported the Summer Storm this season may choose to have embraced the experience of battling alongside Murmastis and her warband. If they do, they receive a particular boon.
Line 158:		Line 158:
	Last season the [[Even_darkness_must_pass#The_Weight_of_Glory\|increased impact]] of the [[Knights of Glory]] enchantment was made apparent. As happened in the reign of [[Empress Brannan]], repeated exposure to the glorious knights of the Summer realm is having an unlooked for effect on Imperial soldiers. The excitement of fighting in the Mallum is starting to affect the Empire’s loyal warriors - possibly because of the oppressive aura of fear coupled with the feeling of pride and strength exposure to the heralds of the Fields of Glory brings. But also because the Knights of Glory are so effective at inspiring those who fight alongside them to pursue glory and heroism over mere victory or survival.		Last season the [[Even_darkness_must_pass#The_Weight_of_Glory\|increased impact]] of the [[Knights of Glory]] enchantment was made apparent. As happened in the reign of [[Empress Brannan]], repeated exposure to the glorious knights of the Summer realm is having an unlooked for effect on Imperial soldiers. The excitement of fighting in the Mallum is starting to affect the Empire’s loyal warriors - possibly because of the oppressive aura of fear coupled with the feeling of pride and strength exposure to the heralds of the Fields of Glory brings. But also because the Knights of Glory are so effective at inspiring those who fight alongside them to pursue glory and heroism over mere victory or survival.

	The Golden Axe was one of the armies already ~~effected~~ by this growing attunement with aspects of the Summer realm. They continue to be unable to take the [[Army orders#Cautious Advance\|Cautious Advance]] or [[Army orders#Give Ground\|Give Ground]] orders. If the [[general]] issues such an order it will default to [[Army orders#Balanced Attack\|Balanced Attack]] or [[Army orders#Solid Defence\|Solid Defence]] instead. This effect will persist until the army has spent an entire year without experiencing the Knights of Glory enchantment (each of the affected armies tracks this separately). It may be possible to ameliorate this effect by other means but it is not clear quite how this might be done. The national or virtue assemblies of the Imperial Synod may be able to assist in this matter, perhaps with a suitably worded statement of principle.		The Golden Axe was one of the armies already affected by this growing attunement with aspects of the Summer realm. They continue to be unable to take the [[Army orders#Cautious Advance\|Cautious Advance]] or [[Army orders#Give Ground\|Give Ground]] orders. If the [[general]] issues such an order it will default to [[Army orders#Balanced Attack\|Balanced Attack]] or [[Army orders#Solid Defence\|Solid Defence]] instead. This effect will persist until the army has spent an entire year without experiencing the Knights of Glory enchantment (each of the affected armies tracks this separately). It may be possible to ameliorate this effect by other means, but it is not clear quite how this might be done. The national or virtue assemblies of the Imperial Synod may be able to assist in this matter, perhaps with a suitably worded statement of principle.

	The situation has not gotten any ''worse'' due to another season under the influence of the Knights of Glory. If anything, it has opened up a possible [[opportunity]]. The magical knights of Eleonaris encourage the soldiers of Varushka to ''[[Summer_magic#Triumph\|conquer]]'' their enemies - something that is very much in keeping with their goals and ambitions. If the army is again enchanted with Knights of Glory at the Winter Solstice, and the general issues an [[Army orders#Overwhelming Assault\|Overwhelming Assault]], [[Army orders#Heroic Stand\|Heroic Stand]], [[Army qualities#Driven\|Grinding Advance]], or [[Army qualities#Take Their Land\|Take Their Land]] order against the Druj in the Mallum the knights will help enthuse the varushkans even more. The final component required will be 12 wains of [[mithril]], which should be in the inventory of the general of the Golden Axe and used to create a set of standards in the old Vardish style, incorporating the [[Varushka_religious_beliefs#The_Virtuous_Animals\|virtuous animals]], and serving as symbols of their commitment to victory and triumph.		The situation has not gotten any ''worse'' due to another season under the influence of the Knights of Glory. If anything, it has opened up a possible [[opportunity]]. The magical knights of Eleonaris encourage the soldiers of Varushka to ''[[Summer_magic#Triumph\|conquer]]'' their enemies - something that is very much in keeping with their goals and ambitions. If the army is again enchanted with Knights of Glory at the Winter Solstice, and the general issues an [[Army orders#Overwhelming Assault\|Overwhelming Assault]], [[Army orders#Heroic Stand\|Heroic Stand]], [[Army qualities#Driven\|Grinding Advance]], or [[Army qualities#Take Their Land\|Take Their Land]] order against the Druj in the Mallum the knights will help enthuse the varushkans even more. The final component required will be 12 wains of [[mithril]], which should be in the inventory of the general of the Golden Axe and used to create a set of standards in the old Vardish style, incorporating the [[Varushka_religious_beliefs#The_Virtuous_Animals\|virtuous animals]], and serving as symbols of their commitment to victory and triumph.
Line 168:		Line 168:
	* '''Casualties inflicted by this army are reduced by a fifth'''		* '''Casualties inflicted by this army are reduced by a fifth'''
	* '''The ability of this army to conquer territory is increased by a fifth'''		* '''The ability of this army to conquer territory is increased by a fifth'''
	The army advances relentlessly, targeting key strategic points with their attacks. They do not shy away from direct engagements, harrying defenders until they force them to retreat. Securing their goal, they consolidate their gains and then select another landmark to move towards. In the end, it is the conquest that matters; the iron spirit of the Vard will be satisfied by nothing less than absolute uncontested victory.</box>		The army advances relentlessly, targeting key strategic points with their attacks. They do not shy away from direct engagements, harrying defenders until they force them to retreat. Securing their goal, they consolidate their gains and then select another landmark to move towards. In the end, it is the conquest that matters; the iron spirit of the Vard will be satisfied by nothing less than absolute, uncontested victory.</box>