Salt lions - Revision history

Matt: /* Battle Opportunity : Jaws of the Leomarid */

2026-09-08T19:06:31Z

Battle Opportunity : Jaws of the Leomarid

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:06, 8 September 2026
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	Nine months ago a secretive cult emerged from Attar and offered the power of the ''Hawser of the Drowned'' to the Salt Lords allowing them to collapse the cliffs along the coast of Fleisardh. As the campaign has increasingly focused on the interior of Mareave, the Grendel desperately need the support of their navies to counter the Imperial presence in the territory. The greatest barrier is the stubborn neutrality of the port city of Beoraidh, and the towering coastal cliffs of Icarion.		Nine months ago a secretive cult emerged from Attar and offered the power of the ''Hawser of the Drowned'' to the Salt Lords allowing them to collapse the cliffs along the coast of Fleisardh. As the campaign has increasingly focused on the interior of Mareave, the Grendel desperately need the support of their navies to counter the Imperial presence in the territory. The greatest barrier is the stubborn neutrality of the port city of Beoraidh, and the towering coastal cliffs of Icarion.

	The ''Tempest'' and ''Simoom'' have [[appraisal\|appraised]] an [[opportunity]] to overcome the natural sea defences of Icarion and create a way to ~~effect a beachhead in~~ the region. Through repeated dumping of rocks, sand, and rubble from ancient buildings, a flotilla of small [[fleet\|fleets]] of independent captains have spent the last month building up basic quays beneath the cliffs in what are normally treacherous waters surrounding the ''Syagrian Haven''. The headland above contains several old ruined settlements, beneath which the limestone cliffs are riddled with cracks, fissures, and tunnels. The tunnels extend inland, spreading out in all directions. Some of these are large enough to move people and supplies through, passageways of a former minor Urizeni port and more recent enlargements by Grendel smugglers. A whole tunnel network exists, capable of hiding away bands of smugglers or spies for months, but only four of the tunnels are large enough to be of use to military forces.		The ''Tempest'' and ''Simoom'' have [[appraisal\|appraised]] an [[opportunity]] to overcome the natural sea defences of Icarion and create a way to make the region coastal. Through repeated dumping of rocks, sand, and rubble from ancient buildings, a flotilla of small [[fleet\|fleets]] of independent captains have spent the last month building up basic quays beneath the cliffs in what are normally treacherous waters surrounding the ''Syagrian Haven''. The headland above contains several old ruined settlements, beneath which the limestone cliffs are riddled with cracks, fissures, and tunnels. The tunnels extend inland, spreading out in all directions. Some of these are large enough to move people and supplies through, passageways of a former minor Urizeni port and more recent enlargements by Grendel smugglers. A whole tunnel network exists, capable of hiding away bands of smugglers or spies for months, but only four of the tunnels are large enough to be of use to military forces.

	If the Grendel's work is left uninterrupted then their navies - four of which are currently in Mareave - would be able to land marines onto the makeshift docks and then quickly bring elite moridun soldiers up into Icarion. With no coastal defences to speak of it would be hard for the Empire to deter their ships, and the steep drop would offer the orcs making landfall ample protection whilst they entered the tunnels. From there, Wave Riders could quickly spread out into the region, allowing the Stone Born to consolidate their gains. If this cunning innovation by the Grendel is not stopped, the Grendel will be able to ~~deploy forces from the sea there~~ for the next year.		If the Grendel's work is left uninterrupted then their navies - four of which are currently in Mareave - would be able to land marines onto the makeshift docks and then quickly bring elite moridun soldiers up into Icarion. With no coastal defences to speak of it would be hard for the Empire to deter their ships, and the steep drop would offer the orcs making landfall ample protection whilst they entered the tunnels. From there, Wave Riders could quickly spread out into the region, allowing the Stone Born to consolidate their gains. If this cunning innovation by the Grendel is not stopped, the Grendel will be able to treat Icarion as a coastal region for the next year.

	The [[civil service]] has identified a conjunction that will enable heroes to reach the ''Syagrian Haven'' in Icarion on the Saturday of the Autumn Equinox.		The [[civil service]] has identified a conjunction that will enable heroes to reach the ''Syagrian Haven'' in Icarion on the Saturday of the Autumn Equinox.

Matt: /* Objective: Locate and Collapse the Tunnel Network */

2026-09-08T19:03:35Z

Objective: Locate and Collapse the Tunnel Network

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:03, 8 September 2026
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	* '''Once an active tunnel has been located, actions can be taken to collapse it'''		* '''Once an active tunnel has been located, actions can be taken to collapse it'''
	* '''Zakalwe offers the ''Spheres of Tarachi'' to assist in this endeavour'''		* '''Zakalwe offers the ''Spheres of Tarachi'' to assist in this endeavour'''
	* '''Each destroyed tunnel will reduce the time ~~the Grendel~~ can maintain ~~a beachhead in Icarion~~ by a season'''		* '''The Grendel plan will allow them to treat Icarion as if it were coastal for the next year'''
			* '''Each destroyed tunnel will reduce the time they can maintain this by one season'''

	The tunnels that extend inland from the ''Syagrian Haven'' are the focus of the Grendel's scheme, and they already have an exploratory force in place on the headland above. The first hurdle to thwarting the Grendel in the area is to actually determine where to focus efforts. There are six shaft vents that connect down to the tunnels below, bringing fresh air into the caverns and storehouses, regulating temperature and evacuating the often stale brine-filled atmosphere. Not all of them are useful, two connect to dead-end chambers or old passageways; simply hoping for the best risks collapsing an unused tunnel or empty cavern, wasting resources with little impact on the Grendel.		The tunnels that extend inland from the ''Syagrian Haven'' are the focus of the Grendel's scheme, and they already have an exploratory force in place on the headland above. The first hurdle to thwarting the Grendel in the area is to actually determine where to focus efforts. There are six shaft vents that connect down to the tunnels below, bringing fresh air into the caverns and storehouses, regulating temperature and evacuating the often stale brine-filled atmosphere. Not all of them are useful, two connect to dead-end chambers or old passageways; simply hoping for the best risks collapsing an unused tunnel or empty cavern, wasting resources with little impact on the Grendel.
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	Zakalwe has offered the ''Spheres of Tarachi'' to assist the Empire in this matter. Each sphere is a crystalline cage that can bind and deliver powerful magical forces in battle. Normally they can be lofted into enemy ranks to burst open, [[Repel\|hurling soldiers aside]], and [[Paralysis\|pinning advancing troops]]. The ''Master Strategist'' has adapted these alembics so that each orb can contain the magical power from rituals of the other realms. This allows ritualists to imbue the object in a manner similar to enchanting an implement, via the [[Rising Roots that Rend Stone]] or the [[Inevitable Collapse into Ruin]] rituals. If dropped down one of the tunnel shafts, the crystalline globe will shatter when it reaches the bottom, loosing the destructive energies and collapsing the tunnel.		Zakalwe has offered the ''Spheres of Tarachi'' to assist the Empire in this matter. Each sphere is a crystalline cage that can bind and deliver powerful magical forces in battle. Normally they can be lofted into enemy ranks to burst open, [[Repel\|hurling soldiers aside]], and [[Paralysis\|pinning advancing troops]]. The ''Master Strategist'' has adapted these alembics so that each orb can contain the magical power from rituals of the other realms. This allows ritualists to imbue the object in a manner similar to enchanting an implement, via the [[Rising Roots that Rend Stone]] or the [[Inevitable Collapse into Ruin]] rituals. If dropped down one of the tunnel shafts, the crystalline globe will shatter when it reaches the bottom, loosing the destructive energies and collapsing the tunnel.

	The Grendel opportunity will ~~give~~ them ~~a beachhead in~~ Icarion for one year if they are not stopped. Over time the coastal forces of the Bay will slowly eat away at the makeshift docks, wearing down the quays and washing out the tunnel entrances. After a year the temporary landings will be lost, unless a significant [[great work\|engineering project]] is undertaken to secure the docks against the action of the tides. Each of the four active tunnels that is destroyed will impede the Grendel efforts, reducing the time the barbarians can maintain their ~~beachhead~~ by a single season. If all four tunnels can be located and dealt with, then the threat to Icarion from the sea will be completely stopped.		The Grendel opportunity will allow them to treat Icarion as coastal for one year if they are not stopped. Over time the coastal forces of the Bay will slowly eat away at the makeshift docks, wearing down the quays and washing out the tunnel entrances. After a year the temporary landings will be lost, unless a significant [[great work\|engineering project]] is undertaken to secure the docks against the action of the tides. Each of the four active tunnels that is destroyed will impede the Grendel efforts, reducing the time the barbarians can maintain their coastal access by a single season. If all four tunnels can be located and dealt with, then the threat to Icarion from the sea will be completely stopped.

	===Objective: Deflect the ''Quintian Spears''===		===Objective: Deflect the ''Quintian Spears''===

Graemej: /* Battle Opportunity : Jaws of the Leomarid */

2026-09-08T18:31:00Z

Battle Opportunity : Jaws of the Leomarid

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:31, 8 September 2026
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	The ''Tempest'' and ''Simoom'' have [[appraisal\|appraised]] an [[opportunity]] to overcome the natural sea defences of Icarion and create a way to effect a beachhead in the region. Through repeated dumping of rocks, sand, and rubble from ancient buildings, a flotilla of small [[fleet\|fleets]] of independent captains have spent the last month building up basic quays beneath the cliffs in what are normally treacherous waters surrounding the ''Syagrian Haven''. The headland above contains several old ruined settlements, beneath which the limestone cliffs are riddled with cracks, fissures, and tunnels. The tunnels extend inland, spreading out in all directions. Some of these are large enough to move people and supplies through, passageways of a former minor Urizeni port and more recent enlargements by Grendel smugglers. A whole tunnel network exists, capable of hiding away bands of smugglers or spies for months, but only four of the tunnels are large enough to be of use to military forces.		The ''Tempest'' and ''Simoom'' have [[appraisal\|appraised]] an [[opportunity]] to overcome the natural sea defences of Icarion and create a way to effect a beachhead in the region. Through repeated dumping of rocks, sand, and rubble from ancient buildings, a flotilla of small [[fleet\|fleets]] of independent captains have spent the last month building up basic quays beneath the cliffs in what are normally treacherous waters surrounding the ''Syagrian Haven''. The headland above contains several old ruined settlements, beneath which the limestone cliffs are riddled with cracks, fissures, and tunnels. The tunnels extend inland, spreading out in all directions. Some of these are large enough to move people and supplies through, passageways of a former minor Urizeni port and more recent enlargements by Grendel smugglers. A whole tunnel network exists, capable of hiding away bands of smugglers or spies for months, but only four of the tunnels are large enough to be of use to military forces.

	If the Grendel's work is left uninterrupted then their navies - four of which are currently in Mareave - would be able to land marines onto the makeshift docks and then quickly bring elite moridun soldiers up into Icarion. With no coastal defences to speak of it would be hard for the Empire to deter their ships, and the steep drop would offer the orcs making landfall ample protection whilst they entered the tunnels. From there, Wave Riders could quickly spread out into the region, allowing the Stone Born to consolidate their gains. If this cunning innovation by the Grendel is not stopped, it will ~~serve as a beachhead through which they can rapidly~~ deploy ~~their~~ forces for the next year.		If the Grendel's work is left uninterrupted then their navies - four of which are currently in Mareave - would be able to land marines onto the makeshift docks and then quickly bring elite moridun soldiers up into Icarion. With no coastal defences to speak of it would be hard for the Empire to deter their ships, and the steep drop would offer the orcs making landfall ample protection whilst they entered the tunnels. From there, Wave Riders could quickly spread out into the region, allowing the Stone Born to consolidate their gains. If this cunning innovation by the Grendel is not stopped, the Grendel will be able to deploy forces from the sea there for the next year.

	The [[civil service]] has identified a conjunction that will enable heroes to reach the ''Syagrian Haven'' in Icarion on the Saturday of the Autumn Equinox.		The [[civil service]] has identified a conjunction that will enable heroes to reach the ''Syagrian Haven'' in Icarion on the Saturday of the Autumn Equinox.

GuiltyConscience: /* Battle Opportunity : Jaws of the Leomarid */

2026-09-08T13:48:33Z

Battle Opportunity : Jaws of the Leomarid

Kirkbride: /* Objective: Locate and Collapse the Tunnel Network */

2026-09-08T11:25:38Z

Objective: Locate and Collapse the Tunnel Network

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:25, 8 September 2026
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	The tunnels that extend inland from the ''Syagrian Haven'' are the focus of the Grendel's scheme, and they already have an exploratory force in place on the headland above. The first hurdle to thwarting the Grendel in the area is to actually determine where to focus efforts. There are six shaft vents that connect down to the tunnels below, bringing fresh air into the caverns and storehouses, regulating temperature and evacuating the often stale brine-filled atmosphere. Not all of them are useful, two connect to dead-end chambers or old passageways; simply hoping for the best risks collapsing an unused tunnel or empty cavern, wasting resources with little impact on the Grendel.		The tunnels that extend inland from the ''Syagrian Haven'' are the focus of the Grendel's scheme, and they already have an exploratory force in place on the headland above. The first hurdle to thwarting the Grendel in the area is to actually determine where to focus efforts. There are six shaft vents that connect down to the tunnels below, bringing fresh air into the caverns and storehouses, regulating temperature and evacuating the often stale brine-filled atmosphere. Not all of them are useful, two connect to dead-end chambers or old passageways; simply hoping for the best risks collapsing an unused tunnel or empty cavern, wasting resources with little impact on the Grendel.

	To determine if a vent connects to an actively used tunnel, a day mage can cast the ritual [[Clear ~~Lense~~ of the Eternal River]] to learn factual information about the immediate area connected to the shaft. This will allow Imperial forces to decide if the tunnel is worth destroying. The tunnels themselves are deep underground and protected from direct assault or magical destruction that could be achieved through spring or winter rituals. This means the tunnels must be destroyed from inside.		To determine if a vent connects to an actively used tunnel, a day mage can cast the ritual [[Clear Lens of the Eternal River]] to learn factual information about the immediate area connected to the shaft. This will allow Imperial forces to decide if the tunnel is worth destroying. The tunnels themselves are deep underground and protected from direct assault or magical destruction that could be achieved through spring or winter rituals. This means the tunnels must be destroyed from inside.

	Zakalwe has offered the ''Spheres of Tarachi'' to assist the Empire in this matter. Each sphere is a crystalline cage that can bind and deliver powerful magical forces in battle. Normally they can be lofted into enemy ranks to burst open, [[Repel\|hurling soldiers aside]], and[[Paralysis\|pinning advancing troops]]. The ''Master Strategist'' has adapted these alembics so that each orb can contain the magical power from rituals of the other realms. This allows ritualists to imbue the object win a manner similar to enchanting an implement, via the [[Rising Roots Rend Stone]] or the [[Inevitable Collapse into Ruin]] rituals. If dropped down one of the tunnel shafts, the crystalline globe will shatter when it reaches the bottom, loosing the destructive energies and collapsing the tunnel.		Zakalwe has offered the ''Spheres of Tarachi'' to assist the Empire in this matter. Each sphere is a crystalline cage that can bind and deliver powerful magical forces in battle. Normally they can be lofted into enemy ranks to burst open, [[Repel\|hurling soldiers aside]], and[[Paralysis\|pinning advancing troops]]. The ''Master Strategist'' has adapted these alembics so that each orb can contain the magical power from rituals of the other realms. This allows ritualists to imbue the object win a manner similar to enchanting an implement, via the [[Rising Roots that Rend Stone]] or the [[Inevitable Collapse into Ruin]] rituals. If dropped down one of the tunnel shafts, the crystalline globe will shatter when it reaches the bottom, loosing the destructive energies and collapsing the tunnel.

	The Grendel opportunity will give them a beachhead in Icarion for one year if they are not stopped. Overtime the coastal forces of the Bay will slowly eat away at the makeshift docks, wearing down the quays and washing out the tunnel entrances. After a year the temporary landings will be lost, unless a significant [[great work\|engineering project]] is undertaken to secure the docks against the action of the tides. Each of the four active tunnels that is destroyed will impede the Grendel efforts, reducing the time the barbarians can maintain their beachhead by single season. If all four tunnels can be located and dealt with, then the threat to Icarion from the sea will be completely stopped.		The Grendel opportunity will give them a beachhead in Icarion for one year if they are not stopped. Overtime the coastal forces of the Bay will slowly eat away at the makeshift docks, wearing down the quays and washing out the tunnel entrances. After a year the temporary landings will be lost, unless a significant [[great work\|engineering project]] is undertaken to secure the docks against the action of the tides. Each of the four active tunnels that is destroyed will impede the Grendel efforts, reducing the time the barbarians can maintain their beachhead by single season. If all four tunnels can be located and dealt with, then the threat to Icarion from the sea will be completely stopped.

Matt: /* Battle Opportunity : Jaws of the Leomarid */

2026-09-08T11:24:41Z

Battle Opportunity : Jaws of the Leomarid

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 ==Battle Opportunity : Jaws of the Leomarid==
 * '''An opportunity exists to disrupt a Grendel plan to establish naval access to the region of Icarion'''
-Civil service prognosticators have identified a major conjunction of the Sentinel Gate that will allow Imperial heroes to reach Icarion during the Autumn Equinox, and potentially disrupt Grendel plans to enact an opportunity to allow their naval forces to access northern Mareave.

Dre at 15:20, 26 August 2026

2026-08-26T15:20:23Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:20, 26 August 2026
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	<quote by="Jean d'Apulian, General of the Wolves of War"><div style="font-size: .7em;">Let the pale imitations try. Here, loosed, are the world's finest mercenaries to meet such folly. Tell them, tell the Salt Lords, they may cast armies like coin to the four winds. We shall weather them like the tepid waves that they are. Audacity bought is no match for loyalty given. Now, let's be having them.</div></quote>		<quote by="Jean d'Apulian, General of the Wolves of War"><div style="font-size: .7em;">Let the pale imitations try. Here, loosed, are the world's finest mercenaries to meet such folly. Tell them, tell the Salt Lords, they may cast armies like coin to the four winds. We shall weather them like the tepid waves that they are. Audacity bought is no match for loyalty given. Now, let's be having them.</div></quote>
	</div>		</div>
	In the days following the battle at the ''Ruins of Sinat'', as the [[Rivers of Life]] continued to flow sluggishly over the hot, dry territory, the Empire withdrew all the [[army\|armies]] previously stationed in Mareave save the [[Wolves of War]]. They did not abandon the [[territory]]; far from it. Five fresh armies took the place of those returning to the heartlands of the Empire. The [[Winter Sun]] and the [[Seventh Wave]], the [[Granite Pillar]] and the [[Eastern Sky]] took [[Spiral#Curstag's_Way\|Curstag's Way]] down the pass from [[Spiral#Apulian\|Apulian]], swiftly reinforcing the Wolves in [[Mareave#Clisearn\|Clisearn]]. With the Eastern Sky come a great host of Imperial [[military unit\|warband]] ~~lead~~ by captains from every nation save [[Navarr]].		In the days following the battle at the ''Ruins of Sinat'', as the [[Rivers of Life]] continued to flow sluggishly over the hot, dry territory, the Empire withdrew all the [[army\|armies]] previously stationed in Mareave save the [[Wolves of War]]. They did not abandon the [[territory]]; far from it. Five fresh armies took the place of those returning to the heartlands of the Empire. The [[Winter Sun]] and the [[Seventh Wave]], the [[Granite Pillar]] and the [[Eastern Sky]] took [[Spiral#Curstag's_Way\|Curstag's Way]] down the pass from [[Spiral#Apulian\|Apulian]], swiftly reinforcing the Wolves in [[Mareave#Clisearn\|Clisearn]]. With the Eastern Sky come a great host of Imperial [[military unit\|warband]] led by captains from every nation save [[Navarr]].

	The generals of the Empire continue to favour a strategy that served them well enough last season. While the Eastern Sky and the Wolves of War go on the offensive, the Sun, and the Pillar, and the Wave take defensive positions, setting themselves as a wall of steel and virtue against Grendel attempts to complete their conquest of Clisearn. Even as they are moving into position, another army arrives down the [[Mareave#The_Apulian_Way\|Apulian Way]]. The [[Fire of the South]] do nothing by halves; previously garrisoned in [[Madruga]] to [[Phantasms_and_foam#Take_Your_Prize\|defend their homeland]] they have torn a burning path all along the northern coast of the [[Bay of Catazar]] to join the Imperial assault in Mareave. They arrive tired and dusty... and immediately throw themselves into the fray in southern Mareave barely pausing to quench their thirst and set their camps before battle is joined.		The generals of the Empire continue to favour a strategy that served them well enough last season. While the Eastern Sky and the Wolves of War go on the offensive, the Sun, and the Pillar, and the Wave take defensive positions, setting themselves as a wall of steel and virtue against Grendel attempts to complete their conquest of Clisearn. Even as they are moving into position, another army arrives down the [[Mareave#The_Apulian_Way\|Apulian Way]]. The [[Fire of the South]] do nothing by halves; previously garrisoned in [[Madruga]] to [[Phantasms_and_foam#Take_Your_Prize\|defend their homeland]] they have torn a burning path all along the northern coast of the [[Bay of Catazar]] to join the Imperial assault in Mareave. They arrive tired and dusty... and immediately throw themselves into the fray in southern Mareave barely pausing to quench their thirst and set their camps before battle is joined.

Hailmur: /* Solid Stand on Shifting Sand */

2026-08-18T16:50:50Z

Solid Stand on Shifting Sand

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:50, 18 August 2026
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	There is no single, key conflict during the months between the Summer Solstice and the Autumn Equinox. Rather there are a series of skirmishes and probing strikes from the Empire which are met with a wall of barbarian iron. The border between Imperial and barbarian held territory frays a little - Imperial troops press forward in one place and make temporary gains before the Grendel regroup and reclaim the land they have lost. The Empire is largely able to dictate ''where'' each battle takes place, but the commanders of the Broken Shore - bolstered as they are with supernatural clarity - are quick to respond to every attempt to gain ground.		There is no single, key conflict during the months between the Summer Solstice and the Autumn Equinox. Rather there are a series of skirmishes and probing strikes from the Empire which are met with a wall of barbarian iron. The border between Imperial and barbarian held territory frays a little - Imperial troops press forward in one place and make temporary gains before the Grendel regroup and reclaim the land they have lost. The Empire is largely able to dictate ''where'' each battle takes place, but the commanders of the Broken Shore - bolstered as they are with supernatural clarity - are quick to respond to every attempt to gain ground.

	When the four armies at the forefront respond to an Imperial incursion, their manoeuvres are given a great deal of additional weight by the rest of the Grendel forces who have for the most part made camp in Fleisardh. The fighting is bitter, brutal work. ~~Thousands die~~ on both sides - the Empire loses ~~more than two~~ thousand soldiers between the three armies and the garrison of Rucraic's Redoubt. The Grendel pay a higher price - primarily due to the presence of so many independent warbands on the Imperial side. Their defensive position, however, and the fact that they simply need to hold against the Empire means that even there their casualties are reduced noticeably from what they might have been. The Empire struggles to recover its wounded, while the Grendel can ensure that as long as they do not retreat their injured soldiers can return to the fray the next day.		When the four armies at the forefront respond to an Imperial incursion, their manoeuvres are given a great deal of additional weight by the rest of the Grendel forces who have for the most part made camp in Fleisardh. The fighting is bitter, brutal work. If not for the Spring curse laid on the territory, then thousands would have died on both sides - as it is, the Empire loses just over a thousand soldiers between the three armies and the garrison of Rucraic's Redoubt. The Grendel pay a higher price - primarily due to the presence of so many independent warbands on the Imperial side. Their defensive position, however, and the fact that they simply need to hold against the Empire means that even there their casualties are reduced noticeably from what they might have been. The Empire struggles to recover its wounded, while the Grendel can ensure that as long as they do not retreat their injured soldiers can return to the fray the next day.

	The fact that a large ~~potion~~ of the Grendel forces are at sea, rather than in the shape of boots on the ground, is a blessing for the Empire. It also helps that the ''Golden Winds'' seem to have entirely withdrawn from Mareave - likely due to the [[The_keys_of_blood#Do_Some_Harm_(Arhallogen)\|grim boon]] offered to the [[Silver Chalice]] by the [[Arhallogen\|Centipede General]]. Plentiful fresh water is rare in Mareave, and it seems that poisoning the wells the Grendel rely on has caused enough death and suffering that the admiral felt the need to flee back to the safety of the western Broken Shore to recuperate.		The fact that a large portion of the Grendel forces are at sea, rather than in the shape of boots on the ground, is a blessing for the Empire. It also helps that the ''Golden Winds'' seem to have entirely withdrawn from Mareave - likely due to the [[The_keys_of_blood#Do_Some_Harm_(Arhallogen)\|grim boon]] offered to the [[Silver Chalice]] by the [[Arhallogen\|Centipede General]]. Plentiful fresh water is rare in Mareave, and it seems that poisoning the wells the Grendel rely on has caused enough death and suffering that the admiral felt the need to flee back to the safety of the western Broken Shore to recuperate.

	Even so the support of the remaining Grendel navies strengthens their armies. They transport large amounts of supplies from elsewhere along the Shore, avoiding the desiccating trek through the [[Ayereed#Petrified_Forest\|Petrified Forest]], and removing the threat of having their food and drink poisoned by opportunistic wizards. For the most part though the sailors themselves, even those trained in war, do not engage the Empire directly. This also reduces the impact of the Asavean warships sent by the Plenum. While there are a few mercenaries fighting alongside the armies - especially the Hamsin - they seem unenthused by the defensive strategy the Salt Lords have decreed.		Even so the support of the remaining Grendel navies strengthens their armies. They transport large amounts of supplies from elsewhere along the Shore, avoiding the desiccating trek through the [[Ayereed#Petrified_Forest\|Petrified Forest]], and removing the threat of having their food and drink poisoned by opportunistic wizards. For the most part though the sailors themselves, even those trained in war, do not engage the Empire directly. This also reduces the impact of the Asavean warships sent by the Plenum. While there are a few mercenaries fighting alongside the armies - especially the Hamsin - they seem unenthused by the defensive strategy the Salt Lords have decreed.
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	Their navies... and their [[Grendel_religion#Cunning\|cunning]].		Their navies... and their [[Grendel_religion#Cunning\|cunning]].
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Crab-traced-2.png\|align=right\|width=250\|}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Crab-traced-2.png\|align=right\|width=250\|}}

	==The Crab Has Two Hands==		==The Crab Has Two Hands==
	At the same time that the League, Dawn, and the Brass Coast are pressing the defences of the Grendel, the Highborn are about a different task. The Granite Pillar lead a disciplined defence, and that leaves parts of the Seventh Wave free to [[Army_qualities#Scouting\|employ different tactics]]. With some support from the [[Army_qualities#Freedom_Fighters\|canny guerillas]] of the Winter Sun, and a little assistance from two of the Polemarchs, they send out scouts and spies to seek out both any sign of a Grendel [[spy network]], and any threat of espionage from the Broken Shore. With no enemy forces attacking the Empire, they are free to focus their efforts on Imperial-held territory (and to a slightly lesser degree, on the city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh\|Beoraidh]]).		At the same time that the League, Dawn, and the Brass Coast are pressing the defences of the Grendel, the Highborn are about a different task. The Granite Pillar lead a disciplined defence, and that leaves parts of the Seventh Wave free to [[Army_qualities#Scouting\|employ different tactics]]. With some support from the [[Army_qualities#Freedom_Fighters\|canny guerillas]] of the Winter Sun, and a little assistance from two of the Polemarchs, they send out scouts and spies to seek out both any sign of a Grendel [[spy network]], and any threat of espionage from the Broken Shore. With no enemy forces attacking the Empire, they are free to focus their efforts on Imperial-held territory (and to a slightly lesser degree, on the city-state of [[Mareave#Beoraidh\|Beoraidh]]).

Hailmur at 16:48, 18 August 2026

2026-08-18T16:48:40Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:48, 18 August 2026
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	In the days following the battle at the ''Ruins of Sinat'', as the [[Rivers of Life]] continued to flow sluggishly over the hot, dry territory, the Empire withdrew all the [[army\|armies]] previously stationed in Mareave save the [[Wolves of War]]. They did not abandon the [[territory]]; far from it. Five fresh armies took the place of those returning to the heartlands of the Empire. The [[Winter Sun]] and the [[Seventh Wave]], the [[Granite Pillar]] and the [[Eastern Sky]] took [[Spiral#Curstag's_Way\|Curstag's Way]] down the pass from [[Spiral#Apulian\|Apulian]], swiftly reinforcing the Wolves in [[Mareave#Clisearn\|Clisearn]]. With the Eastern Sky come a great host of Imperial [[military unit\|warband]] lead by captains from every nation save [[Navarr]].		In the days following the battle at the ''Ruins of Sinat'', as the [[Rivers of Life]] continued to flow sluggishly over the hot, dry territory, the Empire withdrew all the [[army\|armies]] previously stationed in Mareave save the [[Wolves of War]]. They did not abandon the [[territory]]; far from it. Five fresh armies took the place of those returning to the heartlands of the Empire. The [[Winter Sun]] and the [[Seventh Wave]], the [[Granite Pillar]] and the [[Eastern Sky]] took [[Spiral#Curstag's_Way\|Curstag's Way]] down the pass from [[Spiral#Apulian\|Apulian]], swiftly reinforcing the Wolves in [[Mareave#Clisearn\|Clisearn]]. With the Eastern Sky come a great host of Imperial [[military unit\|warband]] lead by captains from every nation save [[Navarr]].

	The generals of the Empire continue to favour a strategy that served them well enough last season. While the Eastern Sky and the ~~Granite Pillar~~ go on the offensive, the Sun, and the Pillar, and the Wave take defensive positions, setting themselves as a wall of steel and virtue against Grendel attempts to complete their conquest of Clisearn. Even as they are moving into position, another army arrives down the [[Mareave#The_Apulian_Way\|Apulian Way]]. The [[Fire of the South]] do nothing by halves; previously garrisoned in [[Madruga]] to [[Phantasms_and_foam#Take_Your_Prize\|defend their homeland]] they have torn a burning path all along the northern coast of the [[Bay of Catazar]] to join the Imperial assault in Mareave. They arrive tired and dusty... and immediately throw themselves into the fray in southern Mareave barely pausing to quench their thirst and set their camps before battle is joined.		The generals of the Empire continue to favour a strategy that served them well enough last season. While the Eastern Sky and the Wolves of War go on the offensive, the Sun, and the Pillar, and the Wave take defensive positions, setting themselves as a wall of steel and virtue against Grendel attempts to complete their conquest of Clisearn. Even as they are moving into position, another army arrives down the [[Mareave#The_Apulian_Way\|Apulian Way]]. The [[Fire of the South]] do nothing by halves; previously garrisoned in [[Madruga]] to [[Phantasms_and_foam#Take_Your_Prize\|defend their homeland]] they have torn a burning path all along the northern coast of the [[Bay of Catazar]] to join the Imperial assault in Mareave. They arrive tired and dusty... and immediately throw themselves into the fray in southern Mareave barely pausing to quench their thirst and set their camps before battle is joined.

	Every Imperial army in Mareave bears the mark of [[Day magic]]. Each has been [[enchantment\|enchanted]] with the [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]], allowing them not only to coordinate their efforts with expert skill but also ensuring every soldier knows their role. Every flaw in the Grendel strategy is identified and exploited - every overreach, every failure to effectively defend a supply cache, every inconsistency created by squabbling commanders. For those on the offensive, it means they are ideally positioned to probe and test the defences of the Grendel; for those protecting the Unshackled from the orcs of the Broken Shore it means they are able to predict where the barbarians will strike with an uncanny exactitude bordering on prescience.		Every Imperial army in Mareave bears the mark of [[Day magic]]. Each has been [[enchantment\|enchanted]] with the [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]], allowing them not only to coordinate their efforts with expert skill but also ensuring every soldier knows their role. Every flaw in the Grendel strategy is identified and exploited - every overreach, every failure to effectively defend a supply cache, every inconsistency created by squabbling commanders. For those on the offensive, it means they are ideally positioned to probe and test the defences of the Grendel; for those protecting the Unshackled from the orcs of the Broken Shore it means they are able to predict where the barbarians will strike with an uncanny exactitude bordering on prescience.

Hailmur at 16:46, 18 August 2026

2026-08-18T16:46:39Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:46, 18 August 2026
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	The Wolves, the Sun, and the Fire however have a ''much'' more perilous time of it. Three armies - albeit three armies supported by innumerable supernatural allies - face the entire Grendel force in Mareave. Fortunately, the supernatural allies and courageous warbands help to even the odds but those three armies are engaging a force of more than forty thousand barbarians, with their magic, and their own allies. Both [[Asavean Archipelago\|Asavean]] battleships and mercenary forces are active in Mareave this season, although the impact of the former is thankfully reduced by the fact the bulk of the fighting is taking place inland rather than along the coast.		The Wolves, the Sun, and the Fire however have a ''much'' more perilous time of it. Three armies - albeit three armies supported by innumerable supernatural allies - face the entire Grendel force in Mareave. Fortunately, the supernatural allies and courageous warbands help to even the odds but those three armies are engaging a force of more than forty thousand barbarians, with their magic, and their own allies. Both [[Asavean Archipelago\|Asavean]] battleships and mercenary forces are active in Mareave this season, although the impact of the former is thankfully reduced by the fact the bulk of the fighting is taking place inland rather than along the coast.

	(And at least some of the mercenaries are fighting elsewhere this season. Their arrangement with the Grendel ''Maistir Brothaig'' resolved, the [[Mithril_and_rope#Opportunity:_Pay_Off_the_Ilium_Jackals\|Ilium Jackals]] of [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] received a surprising offer on the battlefields of Sinat and are now under contract to the ''~~Wolves of War~~''. Can the professional treachery of the dedicated mercenary be made any clearer than this? How the City of Locks must smile to see these fair-weather warriors skip from one side of the line to the other!)		(And at least some of the mercenaries are fighting elsewhere this season. Their arrangement with the Grendel ''Maistir Brothaig'' resolved, the [[Mithril_and_rope#Opportunity:_Pay_Off_the_Ilium_Jackals\|Ilium Jackals]] of [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] received a surprising offer on the battlefields of Sinat and are now under contract to the ''Boyar's Hasta''. Can the professional treachery of the dedicated mercenary be made any clearer than this? How the City of Locks must smile to see these fair-weather warriors skip from one side of the line to the other!)

	<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;">		<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;">

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:48, 18 August 2026
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	In the days following the battle at the ''Ruins of Sinat'', as the [[Rivers of Life]] continued to flow sluggishly over the hot, dry territory, the Empire withdrew all the [[army\|armies]] previously stationed in Mareave save the [[Wolves of War]]. They did not abandon the [[territory]]; far from it. Five fresh armies took the place of those returning to the heartlands of the Empire. The [[Winter Sun]] and the [[Seventh Wave]], the [[Granite Pillar]] and the [[Eastern Sky]] took [[Spiral#Curstag's_Way\|Curstag's Way]] down the pass from [[Spiral#Apulian\|Apulian]], swiftly reinforcing the Wolves in [[Mareave#Clisearn\|Clisearn]]. With the Eastern Sky come a great host of Imperial [[military unit\|warband]] lead by captains from every nation save [[Navarr]].		In the days following the battle at the ''Ruins of Sinat'', as the [[Rivers of Life]] continued to flow sluggishly over the hot, dry territory, the Empire withdrew all the [[army\|armies]] previously stationed in Mareave save the [[Wolves of War]]. They did not abandon the [[territory]]; far from it. Five fresh armies took the place of those returning to the heartlands of the Empire. The [[Winter Sun]] and the [[Seventh Wave]], the [[Granite Pillar]] and the [[Eastern Sky]] took [[Spiral#Curstag's_Way\|Curstag's Way]] down the pass from [[Spiral#Apulian\|Apulian]], swiftly reinforcing the Wolves in [[Mareave#Clisearn\|Clisearn]]. With the Eastern Sky come a great host of Imperial [[military unit\|warband]] lead by captains from every nation save [[Navarr]].

	The generals of the Empire continue to favour a strategy that served them well enough last season. While the Eastern Sky and the ~~Granite Pillar~~ go on the offensive, the Sun, and the Pillar, and the Wave take defensive positions, setting themselves as a wall of steel and virtue against Grendel attempts to complete their conquest of Clisearn. Even as they are moving into position, another army arrives down the [[Mareave#The_Apulian_Way\|Apulian Way]]. The [[Fire of the South]] do nothing by halves; previously garrisoned in [[Madruga]] to [[Phantasms_and_foam#Take_Your_Prize\|defend their homeland]] they have torn a burning path all along the northern coast of the [[Bay of Catazar]] to join the Imperial assault in Mareave. They arrive tired and dusty... and immediately throw themselves into the fray in southern Mareave barely pausing to quench their thirst and set their camps before battle is joined.		The generals of the Empire continue to favour a strategy that served them well enough last season. While the Eastern Sky and the Wolves of War go on the offensive, the Sun, and the Pillar, and the Wave take defensive positions, setting themselves as a wall of steel and virtue against Grendel attempts to complete their conquest of Clisearn. Even as they are moving into position, another army arrives down the [[Mareave#The_Apulian_Way\|Apulian Way]]. The [[Fire of the South]] do nothing by halves; previously garrisoned in [[Madruga]] to [[Phantasms_and_foam#Take_Your_Prize\|defend their homeland]] they have torn a burning path all along the northern coast of the [[Bay of Catazar]] to join the Imperial assault in Mareave. They arrive tired and dusty... and immediately throw themselves into the fray in southern Mareave barely pausing to quench their thirst and set their camps before battle is joined.

	Every Imperial army in Mareave bears the mark of [[Day magic]]. Each has been [[enchantment\|enchanted]] with the [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]], allowing them not only to coordinate their efforts with expert skill but also ensuring every soldier knows their role. Every flaw in the Grendel strategy is identified and exploited - every overreach, every failure to effectively defend a supply cache, every inconsistency created by squabbling commanders. For those on the offensive, it means they are ideally positioned to probe and test the defences of the Grendel; for those protecting the Unshackled from the orcs of the Broken Shore it means they are able to predict where the barbarians will strike with an uncanny exactitude bordering on prescience.		Every Imperial army in Mareave bears the mark of [[Day magic]]. Each has been [[enchantment\|enchanted]] with the [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]], allowing them not only to coordinate their efforts with expert skill but also ensuring every soldier knows their role. Every flaw in the Grendel strategy is identified and exploited - every overreach, every failure to effectively defend a supply cache, every inconsistency created by squabbling commanders. For those on the offensive, it means they are ideally positioned to probe and test the defences of the Grendel; for those protecting the Unshackled from the orcs of the Broken Shore it means they are able to predict where the barbarians will strike with an uncanny exactitude bordering on prescience.

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:48, 8 September 2026
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	* '''An opportunity exists to disrupt a Grendel plan to establish naval access to the region of Icarion'''		* '''An opportunity exists to disrupt a Grendel plan to establish naval access to the region of Icarion'''

	Nine months ago a secretive cult emerged from Attar and offered the power of the ''Hawser of the Drowned'' to the Salt Lords allowing them to collapse the cliffs along the coast of Fleisardh. As the campaign has increasingly focused on the interior of Mareave, ~~they~~ Grendel desperately need the support of their navies to counter the Imperial presence in the territory. The greatest barrier is the stubborn neutrality of the port city of Beoraidh, and the towering coastal cliffs of Icarion.		Nine months ago a secretive cult emerged from Attar and offered the power of the ''Hawser of the Drowned'' to the Salt Lords allowing them to collapse the cliffs along the coast of Fleisardh. As the campaign has increasingly focused on the interior of Mareave, the Grendel desperately need the support of their navies to counter the Imperial presence in the territory. The greatest barrier is the stubborn neutrality of the port city of Beoraidh, and the towering coastal cliffs of Icarion.

	The ''Tempest'' and ''Simoom'' have [[appraisal\|appraised]] an [[opportunity]] to overcome the natural sea defences of Icarion and create a way to effect a beachhead in the region. Through repeated dumping of rocks, sand, and rubble from ancient buildings, a flotilla of small [[fleet\|fleets]] of independent captains have spent the last month building up basic quays beneath the cliffs in what are normally treacherous waters ~~surround~~ the ''Syagrian Haven''. The headland above contains several old ruined settlements, beneath which the limestone cliffs are riddled with cracks, fissures, and tunnels. The tunnels extend inland, spreading out in all directions. Some of these are large enough to move people and supplies through, passageways of a former minor Urizeni port and more recent enlargements by Grendel smugglers. A whole tunnel network exists, capable of hiding away bands of smugglers or spies for months, but only four of the tunnels are large enough to be of use to military forces.		The ''Tempest'' and ''Simoom'' have [[appraisal\|appraised]] an [[opportunity]] to overcome the natural sea defences of Icarion and create a way to effect a beachhead in the region. Through repeated dumping of rocks, sand, and rubble from ancient buildings, a flotilla of small [[fleet\|fleets]] of independent captains have spent the last month building up basic quays beneath the cliffs in what are normally treacherous waters surrounding the ''Syagrian Haven''. The headland above contains several old ruined settlements, beneath which the limestone cliffs are riddled with cracks, fissures, and tunnels. The tunnels extend inland, spreading out in all directions. Some of these are large enough to move people and supplies through, passageways of a former minor Urizeni port and more recent enlargements by Grendel smugglers. A whole tunnel network exists, capable of hiding away bands of smugglers or spies for months, but only four of the tunnels are large enough to be of use to military forces.

	If the Grendel's work is left uninterrupted then their navies - four of which are currently in Mareave - would be able to land marines onto the makeshift docks and then quickly bring elite moridun soldiers up into Icarion. With no coastal defences to speak of it would be hard for the Empire to deter their ships, and the steep drop would offer the orcs making landfall ample protection whilst they entered the tunnels. From there, Wave Riders could quickly spread out into the region, allowing the Stone Born to consolidate their gains. If this cunning innovation by the Grendel is not stopped, it will serve as a beachhead through which they can rapidly deploy their forces for the next year.		If the Grendel's work is left uninterrupted then their navies - four of which are currently in Mareave - would be able to land marines onto the makeshift docks and then quickly bring elite moridun soldiers up into Icarion. With no coastal defences to speak of it would be hard for the Empire to deter their ships, and the steep drop would offer the orcs making landfall ample protection whilst they entered the tunnels. From there, Wave Riders could quickly spread out into the region, allowing the Stone Born to consolidate their gains. If this cunning innovation by the Grendel is not stopped, it will serve as a beachhead through which they can rapidly deploy their forces for the next year.
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	To determine if a vent connects to an actively used tunnel, a day mage can cast the ritual [[Clear Lens of the Eternal River]] to learn factual information about the immediate area connected to the shaft. This will allow Imperial forces to decide if the tunnel is worth destroying. The tunnels themselves are deep underground and protected from direct assault or magical destruction that could be achieved through spring or winter rituals. This means the tunnels must be destroyed from inside.		To determine if a vent connects to an actively used tunnel, a day mage can cast the ritual [[Clear Lens of the Eternal River]] to learn factual information about the immediate area connected to the shaft. This will allow Imperial forces to decide if the tunnel is worth destroying. The tunnels themselves are deep underground and protected from direct assault or magical destruction that could be achieved through spring or winter rituals. This means the tunnels must be destroyed from inside.

	Zakalwe has offered the ''Spheres of Tarachi'' to assist the Empire in this matter. Each sphere is a crystalline cage that can bind and deliver powerful magical forces in battle. Normally they can be lofted into enemy ranks to burst open, [[Repel\|hurling soldiers aside]], and[[Paralysis\|pinning advancing troops]]. The ''Master Strategist'' has adapted these alembics so that each orb can contain the magical power from rituals of the other realms. This allows ritualists to imbue the object ~~win~~ a manner similar to enchanting an implement, via the [[Rising Roots that Rend Stone]] or the [[Inevitable Collapse into Ruin]] rituals. If dropped down one of the tunnel shafts, the crystalline globe will shatter when it reaches the bottom, loosing the destructive energies and collapsing the tunnel.		Zakalwe has offered the ''Spheres of Tarachi'' to assist the Empire in this matter. Each sphere is a crystalline cage that can bind and deliver powerful magical forces in battle. Normally they can be lofted into enemy ranks to burst open, [[Repel\|hurling soldiers aside]], and [[Paralysis\|pinning advancing troops]]. The ''Master Strategist'' has adapted these alembics so that each orb can contain the magical power from rituals of the other realms. This allows ritualists to imbue the object in a manner similar to enchanting an implement, via the [[Rising Roots that Rend Stone]] or the [[Inevitable Collapse into Ruin]] rituals. If dropped down one of the tunnel shafts, the crystalline globe will shatter when it reaches the bottom, loosing the destructive energies and collapsing the tunnel.

	The Grendel opportunity will give them a beachhead in Icarion for one year if they are not stopped. ~~Overtime~~ the coastal forces of the Bay will slowly eat away at the makeshift docks, wearing down the quays and washing out the tunnel entrances. After a year the temporary landings will be lost, unless a significant [[great work\|engineering project]] is undertaken to secure the docks against the action of the tides. Each of the four active tunnels that is destroyed will impede the Grendel efforts, reducing the time the barbarians can maintain their beachhead by single season. If all four tunnels can be located and dealt with, then the threat to Icarion from the sea will be completely stopped.		The Grendel opportunity will give them a beachhead in Icarion for one year if they are not stopped. Over time the coastal forces of the Bay will slowly eat away at the makeshift docks, wearing down the quays and washing out the tunnel entrances. After a year the temporary landings will be lost, unless a significant [[great work\|engineering project]] is undertaken to secure the docks against the action of the tides. Each of the four active tunnels that is destroyed will impede the Grendel efforts, reducing the time the barbarians can maintain their beachhead by a single season. If all four tunnels can be located and dealt with, then the threat to Icarion from the sea will be completely stopped.

	===Objective: Deflect the ''Quintian Spears''===		===Objective: Deflect the ''Quintian Spears''===
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	Trichas Manouelites Zarides is a representative of the ruling Plenum council in Asavea, and one of many prefectoi assigned to assist efforts in furthering the war against the Empire. Zarides is in frequent contact with her seniors back in Asavea, and is involved in securing contracts for the Guardians of the Black Bull and Adherents of the Red God mercenaries. With the flick of a quill, exchange of coin, and [[Call Winged Messenger\|magical missive]] she has the authority to arrange contracts, make key tactical decisions, and determine how best to further Asavea's ultimate aims in its long-range proxy war through their Grendel allies. Even though she has considerable influence with the Asavean mercenaries she can order and contract, there are limits to what she can do, and indeed what she is bound to do by law or oaths to the Plenum.		Trichas Manouelites Zarides is a representative of the ruling Plenum council in Asavea, and one of many prefectoi assigned to assist efforts in furthering the war against the Empire. Zarides is in frequent contact with her seniors back in Asavea, and is involved in securing contracts for the Guardians of the Black Bull and Adherents of the Red God mercenaries. With the flick of a quill, exchange of coin, and [[Call Winged Messenger\|magical missive]] she has the authority to arrange contracts, make key tactical decisions, and determine how best to further Asavea's ultimate aims in its long-range proxy war through their Grendel allies. Even though she has considerable influence with the Asavean mercenaries she can order and contract, there are limits to what she can do, and indeed what she is bound to do by law or oaths to the Plenum.

	Targeting the prefectoi during this opportunity offers a chance to make a small intervention and change the direction of the next season's campaigning. While Zarides is a loyal subject of the Plenum, ~~but~~ she is no hero. A career of sending mercenaries to ~~the~~ deaths to achieve greater goals, doesn't always steel one's own mind against the horrors of battle and bloodshed. If she can be located on the field, separated from her bodyguards, and then in some way threatened, she could be forced to change the orders she has given to the ''Quintian Spears'', a mercenary force operating at her behest, to get them to stand down.		Targeting the prefectoi during this opportunity offers a chance to make a small intervention and change the direction of the next season's campaigning. While Zarides is a loyal subject of the Plenum, she is no hero. A career of sending mercenaries to their deaths to achieve greater goals doesn't always steel one's own mind against the horrors of battle and bloodshed. If she can be located on the field, separated from her bodyguards, and then in some way threatened, she could be forced to change the orders she has given to the ''Quintian Spears'', a mercenary force operating at her behest, to get them to stand down.

	If the Empire can locate Zarides and convince her that her life is on the line, they could extract a promise to stand down the Quintian Spears. She might not be brave, but her word is good. If the Empire can secure a promise from her to call her mercenaries off, then it will reduce the strength of the Simoon by one thousand in the coming season until the Grendel can replace the missing mercenaries. If Zarides is killed, then it will not be possible to stop the Quintian Spears from supporting the Grendel this season.		If the Empire can locate Zarides and convince her that her life is on the line, they could extract a promise to stand down the Quintian Spears. She might not be brave, but her word is good. If the Empire can secure a promise from her to call her mercenaries off, then it will reduce the strength of the Simoon by one thousand in the coming season until the Grendel can replace the missing mercenaries. If Zarides is killed, then it will not be possible to stop the Quintian Spears from supporting the Grendel this season.