The darkest road - Revision history

Twiggy at 16:08, 28 February 2026

2026-02-28T16:08:21Z

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	In recent weeks there have been a series of attacks against the campfires of the Hounds of Glory and the dozens of military units that fought alongside the army this season. At first people put it down to lone Druj assassins, but the hideous decapitation of the questing knight Peter De Rabo. As the assaults continue and become more gruesome, the watches are bolstered with extra sentries and the fires piled high with wood but nothing seems to prevent the monster slipping in to kill both yeofolk and noble alike. Scouts and knights who survive encounters with the monster appear to fall under a terrible curse.		In recent weeks there have been a series of attacks against the campfires of the Hounds of Glory and the dozens of military units that fought alongside the army this season. At first people put it down to lone Druj assassins, but the hideous decapitation of the questing knight Peter De Rabo. As the assaults continue and become more gruesome, the watches are bolstered with extra sentries and the fires piled high with wood but nothing seems to prevent the monster slipping in to kill both yeofolk and noble alike. Scouts and knights who survive encounters with the monster appear to fall under a terrible curse.

	Just before the equinox a young and somewhat bookish winter mage, Frumence the Retainer of House Vonsesse, tells of a chance encounter with a giant beast and a solid account of what it is. It appears that the Druj have somehow released a creature loyal to [[Agramant\|Blood on the Snow]] to lend them aid in their hour of need. The terrible eternal, always eager to spread bloodshed and death has sent forth the Endless Stalker, a fearsome legend said to walk the Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt in the Winter ~~Realm~~. Described as a massive horned horror, possessed of vicious claws and a taste for flesh it now runs amok among the military units camped with the Hounds of Glory, slaking its thirst and devourer any it comes across.		Just before the equinox a young and somewhat bookish winter mage, Frumence the Retainer of House Vonsesse, tells of a chance encounter with a giant beast and a solid account of what it is. It appears that the Druj have somehow released a creature loyal to [[Agramant\|Blood on the Snow]] to lend them aid in their hour of need. The terrible eternal, always eager to spread bloodshed and death has sent forth the Endless Stalker, a fearsome legend said to walk the Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt in the Winter realm. Described as a massive horned horror, possessed of vicious claws and a taste for flesh it now runs amok among the military units camped with the Hounds of Glory, slaking its thirst and devourer any it comes across.

	Should this violent terror be left unchecked, it will run amok picking off stragglers from any Imperial army unlucky enough to remain in Zenith this season. The creature will inflict 200 casualties in the coming season, spread across the Imperial armies in Zenith. Befitting the expected duties of the title and threat posed by the monster, the civil service have asked that Morrigan Mortére, the current [[Knight-protector\|Knight-protector of Winter]] arrange for a party of Imperial heroes to deal with the monster in the Rift in the Veil.		Should this violent terror be left unchecked, it will run amok picking off stragglers from any Imperial army unlucky enough to remain in Zenith this season. The creature will inflict 200 casualties in the coming season, spread across the Imperial armies in Zenith. Befitting the expected duties of the title and threat posed by the monster, the civil service have asked that Morrigan Mortére, the current [[Knight-protector\|Knight-protector of Winter]] arrange for a party of Imperial heroes to deal with the monster in the Rift in the Veil.

Twiggy at 16:26, 27 September 2025

2025-09-27T16:26:47Z

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	* '''The Druj are skilled at employing marshlings on the battlefield to threaten their enemies'''		* '''The Druj are skilled at employing marshlings on the battlefield to threaten their enemies'''
	* '''Destroying the marshlings at the Plantation of Tall Ferns will mean one less monster to deal with on the battle'''		* '''Destroying the marshlings at the Plantation of Tall Ferns will mean one less monster to deal with on the battle'''
	A [[~~marshwalker~~\|marshling]] is a semi-humanoid creature that appears to be made entirely of plant material. They are fearsome foes that can pose a terrible threat when roused to violence. They are found throughout Druj lands, and the barbarians are skilled at employing them in battle herding them towards their enemies.		A [[marshwalkers\|marshling]] is a semi-humanoid creature that appears to be made entirely of plant material. They are fearsome foes that can pose a terrible threat when roused to violence. They are found throughout Druj lands, and the barbarians are skilled at employing them in battle herding them towards their enemies.

	A number of Druj groups have been spotted shepherding marshlings towards the ''Glade of Night Enshrouding''. If the Empire can destroy the marshlings at the Plantation of Tall Ferns before they reach Occursion then there will be half the number encountered on the battle.		A number of Druj groups have been spotted shepherding marshlings towards the ''Glade of Night Enshrouding''. If the Empire can destroy the marshlings at the Plantation of Tall Ferns before they reach Occursion then there will be half the number encountered on the battle.

Twiggy at 19:12, 13 August 2025

2025-08-13T19:12:05Z

Twiggy at 23:13, 1 August 2025

2025-08-01T23:13:41Z

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	For the first time since the campaign began, the forces striving to drive the Druj out of Zenith are able to operate from a safe refuge. With the victory over Kavor Eyepeel, Imperial forces were able to employ the power of the Citadel Guard to raise a [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae\|citadel of gleaming ice and midnight-black stone]] in Clypion, providing valuable protection against the malice of the orcs. The Druj have raised their own magical defences of course - infesting the forest of [[Zenith#Lustri\|Lustri]] with [[Night magic]], and taking advantage of the corruption they have spread in [[Zenith#Proceris\|Proceris]] to raise a twisted fortress of [[Spring magic]] over the former farmlands of Urizen.		For the first time since the campaign began, the forces striving to drive the Druj out of Zenith are able to operate from a safe refuge. With the victory over Kavor Eyepeel, Imperial forces were able to employ the power of the Citadel Guard to raise a [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae\|citadel of gleaming ice and midnight-black stone]] in Clypion, providing valuable protection against the malice of the orcs. The Druj have raised their own magical defences of course - infesting the forest of [[Zenith#Lustri\|Lustri]] with [[Night magic]], and taking advantage of the corruption they have spread in [[Zenith#Proceris\|Proceris]] to raise a twisted fortress of [[Spring magic]] over the former farmlands of Urizen.

	There is other magic at work in Zenith as well - refreshing Spring magic infuses every precious mouthful of water with life-giving grace. The [[~~Ritual_theory~~#The_Law_of_Dominion\|Law of Dominion]] recognises that Zenith is Druj territory, so the great tempest raging across the Empire does not touch the mountains and marshes of eastern Urizen. There is no rain to break the tyranny of the sun, nothing to offer relief from the baking heat. Even nightfall does little to lessen the oppressive, feverish temperature. Those in heavy armour, those forced to fight beneath the relentless flaming eye in the sky are left exhausted - grateful for the reinvigorating, soothing freshness of a mouthful of pure water infused with the power of Spring. At least the heat affects the Druj warriors - used to fighting in the dank shade of the marsh and the forest - at least as much as it does Imperial heroes.		There is other magic at work in Zenith as well - refreshing Spring magic infuses every precious mouthful of water with life-giving grace. The [[Laws_of_magic#The_Law_of_Dominion\|Law of Dominion]] recognises that Zenith is Druj territory, so the great tempest raging across the Empire does not touch the mountains and marshes of eastern Urizen. There is no rain to break the tyranny of the sun, nothing to offer relief from the baking heat. Even nightfall does little to lessen the oppressive, feverish temperature. Those in heavy armour, those forced to fight beneath the relentless flaming eye in the sky are left exhausted - grateful for the reinvigorating, soothing freshness of a mouthful of pure water infused with the power of Spring. At least the heat affects the Druj warriors - used to fighting in the dank shade of the marsh and the forest - at least as much as it does Imperial heroes.

	Shortly after the Spring Equinox, the people of Urizen - especially those in Zenith, especially those who are at their lowest ebb - hear a song in their dreams. When they awaken they remember a lone voice singing in the darkness, and a single star high in the sky above a dark road. They recount a feeling of isolation and loneliness that slowly gives way to an awareness of a great sea of people, reaching out to them, filling them with hope. Those who experience the dream cannot help but describe it to their friends on awakening - some even attempt to recapture the music of the song. In some cases they dream of the song and the star only once. Others hear it every night when they sleep, and awaken refreshed. It strengthens the resolve of the Urizen people, especially those fighting alongside the Citadel Guard. There is no doubt among the magically savvy Urizeni that this is the result of some enchantment or other - some historically minded [[stargazer\|stargazers]] have heard of a ritual called ''The Invocation of the Loquacious Birds'' which asks [[Lashonar]] to deliver a heart-felt message to those in need - but that does nothing to diminish the powerful uplifting effect of the vision. The number of people who abandon hope and accept the [[Kaela#The_Gift_of_Kaela\|Gift of Kaela]] diminishes dramatically in the wake of the vision.		Shortly after the Spring Equinox, the people of Urizen - especially those in Zenith, especially those who are at their lowest ebb - hear a song in their dreams. When they awaken they remember a lone voice singing in the darkness, and a single star high in the sky above a dark road. They recount a feeling of isolation and loneliness that slowly gives way to an awareness of a great sea of people, reaching out to them, filling them with hope. Those who experience the dream cannot help but describe it to their friends on awakening - some even attempt to recapture the music of the song. In some cases they dream of the song and the star only once. Others hear it every night when they sleep, and awaken refreshed. It strengthens the resolve of the Urizen people, especially those fighting alongside the Citadel Guard. There is no doubt among the magically savvy Urizeni that this is the result of some enchantment or other - some historically minded [[stargazer\|stargazers]] have heard of a ritual called ''The Invocation of the Loquacious Birds'' which asks [[Lashonar]] to deliver a heart-felt message to those in need - but that does nothing to diminish the powerful uplifting effect of the vision. The number of people who abandon hope and accept the [[Kaela#The_Gift_of_Kaela\|Gift of Kaela]] diminishes dramatically in the wake of the vision.

Twiggy at 13:08, 14 July 2025

2025-07-14T13:08:32Z

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	The Druj forces seem less unified than they have in previous seasons of the campaign. It seems the death of Kavor Eyepeel might have disrupted their strategy a little. The magicians who lead the Tainted Basilisk, for example, busy themselves with looting the shattered spires and magical wellsprings of Zenith rather than focusing on fighting the Empire. They seem more concerned with accumulating the magical wealth of the Urizen than in actually fighting them. Elsewhere, there are reports of orcs under the banner of the winged serpent actively avoiding engagement with soldiers of the Valiant Pegasus, withdrawing as soon as they are spotted, preferring to skulk and sneak around the edges of the campaign, observing and stalking the Imperial soldiers.		The Druj forces seem less unified than they have in previous seasons of the campaign. It seems the death of Kavor Eyepeel might have disrupted their strategy a little. The magicians who lead the Tainted Basilisk, for example, busy themselves with looting the shattered spires and magical wellsprings of Zenith rather than focusing on fighting the Empire. They seem more concerned with accumulating the magical wealth of the Urizen than in actually fighting them. Elsewhere, there are reports of orcs under the banner of the winged serpent actively avoiding engagement with soldiers of the Valiant Pegasus, withdrawing as soon as they are spotted, preferring to skulk and sneak around the edges of the campaign, observing and stalking the Imperial soldiers.

	The main core of the Druj force, however, are focused on the defence of their remaining lands in Zenith. The orcs quickly concede control of Iteri to the Towerjacks. There are several vicious engagements in the western part of the territory but it is clear that with the vital region of Clypion dominated by the Empire any serious orc force in the west is fighting to delay the inevitable. Yet they refuse to give an inch in Proceris - in the ruined marshlands where once the Golden Cascade watered the largest expanse of farms in the nation of Urizen. The solid defensive strategy of the main force of orcs is supported by hit-and-run tactics employed by some of their warriors, and by the consummate herb lore for which the Druj are famous (or infamous). Apothecaries and physics under the banner of the crimson lizard work tirelessly to support the Druj warriors with healing arts and narcotic potions designed to keep them on their feet even when they are too tired to fight. Uncharacteristically, it seems that the Druj are more concerned with keeping the eastern regions of Zenith than they are with slaughtering or ~~terrorizing~~ the Imperial armies.		The main core of the Druj force, however, are focused on the defence of their remaining lands in Zenith. The orcs quickly concede control of Iteri to the Towerjacks. There are several vicious engagements in the western part of the territory but it is clear that with the vital region of Clypion dominated by the Empire any serious orc force in the west is fighting to delay the inevitable. Yet they refuse to give an inch in Proceris - in the ruined marshlands where once the Golden Cascade watered the largest expanse of farms in the nation of Urizen. The solid defensive strategy of the main force of orcs is supported by hit-and-run tactics employed by some of their warriors, and by the consummate herb lore for which the Druj are famous (or infamous). Apothecaries and physics under the banner of the crimson lizard work tirelessly to support the Druj warriors with healing arts and narcotic potions designed to keep them on their feet even when they are too tired to fight. Uncharacteristically, it seems that the Druj are more concerned with keeping the eastern regions of Zenith than they are with slaughtering or terrorising the Imperial armies.

	Not that the Druj need to do too much in the latter regard - there are still a great many ''tormented souls'' in Zenith - former Imperial champions twisted with madness and dark arts until their spirits are filled with murderous rage and their bodies infused with unliving might. They continue to take every opportunity to ~~terrorize~~ their former allies, leading packs of lesser unliving horrors and Druj alike to strike at the heart of the enemy. Even with the inspiration of the Highborn armies, it is a brave warband that can stand against the coming of these terrors. The whisper of their presence in an area is enough to send a shiver up the spine of even the most seasoned campaigner.		Not that the Druj need to do too much in the latter regard - there are still a great many ''tormented souls'' in Zenith - former Imperial champions twisted with madness and dark arts until their spirits are filled with murderous rage and their bodies infused with unliving might. They continue to take every opportunity to terrorise their former allies, leading packs of lesser unliving horrors and Druj alike to strike at the heart of the enemy. Even with the inspiration of the Highborn armies, it is a brave warband that can stand against the coming of these terrors. The whisper of their presence in an area is enough to send a shiver up the spine of even the most seasoned campaigner.

	The tormented souls are at least familiar. Alongside some of the Druj warbands fight even darker things. [[Out_of_the_realm#The_Setting_Suns_of_Couros\|As she promised]], the grim legions of [[Kaela]] have been dispatched to aid the orcs of the Mallum, Nearly a thousand unkillable warriors are scattered among the Druj armies, and they take every opportunity to face down the soldiers of Highguard. Their implacable, barely resistible force, is one of the few things that can cause the righteous zeal of the Highborn to falter. They sap the strength and the will from those they face and while they clearly take no particular pleasure in slaughter, they do not hesitate to cut down anyone who comes within reach of their swords.		The tormented souls are at least familiar. Alongside some of the Druj warbands fight even darker things. [[Out_of_the_realm#The_Setting_Suns_of_Couros\|As she promised]], the grim legions of [[Kaela]] have been dispatched to aid the orcs of the Mallum, Nearly a thousand unkillable warriors are scattered among the Druj armies, and they take every opportunity to face down the soldiers of Highguard. Their implacable, barely resistible force, is one of the few things that can cause the righteous zeal of the Highborn to falter. They sap the strength and the will from those they face and while they clearly take no particular pleasure in slaughter, they do not hesitate to cut down anyone who comes within reach of their swords.
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	===Tortured souls===		===Tortured souls===
	* '''Scores of tortured souls have been released across Zenith to ~~terrorize~~ soldiers and civilians alike'''		* '''Scores of tortured souls have been released across Zenith to terrorise soldiers and civilians alike'''
	* '''Imperial heroes taking any conjunction to Zenith should be prepared to encounter these creatures'''		* '''Imperial heroes taking any conjunction to Zenith should be prepared to encounter these creatures'''
	* '''Dealing with the souls in Occursion will halve the numbers of these monsters present on the battle'''		* '''Dealing with the souls in Occursion will halve the numbers of these monsters present on the battle'''

Twiggy: /* Rift in the Veil (Conjunction) */

2025-07-14T07:49:33Z

Rift in the Veil (Conjunction)

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	Should this violent terror be left unchecked, it will run amok picking off stragglers from any Imperial army unlucky enough to remain in Zenith this season. The creature will inflict 200 casualties in the coming season, spread across the Imperial armies in Zenith. Befitting the expected duties of the title and threat posed by the monster, the civil service have asked that Morrigan Mortér, the current [[Knight-protector\|Knight-protector of Winter]] arrange for a party of Imperial heroes to deal with the monster in the Rift in the Veil.		Should this violent terror be left unchecked, it will run amok picking off stragglers from any Imperial army unlucky enough to remain in Zenith this season. The creature will inflict 200 casualties in the coming season, spread across the Imperial armies in Zenith. Befitting the expected duties of the title and threat posed by the monster, the civil service have asked that Morrigan Mortér, the current [[Knight-protector\|Knight-protector of Winter]] arrange for a party of Imperial heroes to deal with the monster in the Rift in the Veil.

	The scouts have spotted five tortured souls in this area, all moving towards the ''Glade of Night Enshrouding'' for the battle. They are likely to be a significant threat and advice should be taken from the [[High Exorcist]] or the [[Master of the School of Exorcism]] to ensure that they have made the right preparations to deal with these monsters. Any tortured souls destroyed here will be be one less facing off against the Empire in the battle.		The scouts have spotted five tortured souls in this area, all moving towards the ''Glade of Night Enshrouding'' for the battle. They are likely to be a significant threat and advice should be taken from the [[High Exorcist]] or the [[Master of the School of Exorcism]] to ensure that they have made the right preparations to deal with these monsters. Any tortured souls destroyed here will be one less facing off against the Empire in the battle.

	==Spire of Twisting Shadow (Conjunction)==		==Spire of Twisting Shadow (Conjunction)==

Dre at 09:36, 21 March 2025

2025-03-21T09:36:23Z

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	{{Audio\|link=https://youtu.be/XLhs_al9iWE}}		{{Audio\|link=https://youtu.be/XLhs_al9iWE}}
	==Moon in the West==		==Moon in the West==
	The Sentinel Gate opened during the Summer ~~Equinox~~, allowing the heroes of the Empire to travel to Zenith - to Clypion - and take part in a vital manoeuvre against the Druj forces occupying the territory. A large Druj force, overextended, had become trapped in a salient - overconfident they had pushed too far into the Imperial lines which threatened to close behind them. With the aid of the [[eternal]] [[Zakalwe]], they were able to execute Kavor Eyepeel, and prevent four of his tepel escaping the collapse of the salient with vital potions and herb. Their action threw the Druj onto the back foot, devastating their forces in Iteri, and shifting the balance of power in the western territory.		The Sentinel Gate opened during the Summer Solstice, allowing the heroes of the Empire to travel to Zenith - to Clypion - and take part in a vital manoeuvre against the Druj forces occupying the territory. A large Druj force, overextended, had become trapped in a salient - overconfident they had pushed too far into the Imperial lines which threatened to close behind them. With the aid of the [[eternal]] [[Zakalwe]], they were able to execute Kavor Eyepeel, and prevent four of his tepel escaping the collapse of the salient with vital potions and herb. Their action threw the Druj onto the back foot, devastating their forces in Iteri, and shifting the balance of power in the western territory.

	In the wake of the victory over the Druj, amid the relentless heat of the [[Every_time_it_rains#The_Great_Drought_of_384YE\|great drought]], three Imperial armies - [[Eastern Sky]], [[Seventh Wave]], and [[Fist of the Mountains]] - withdraw from Zenith. They leave behind the [[Citadel Guard]], the [[Granite Pillar]], and the [[Towerjacks]]. In their place come the [[Valiant Pegasus]] - returning to fight in Zenith after a brief sojourn to Bastion to resupply. While the Towerjacks engage the remaining Druj forces in Iteri, the Citadel Guard begin to weave a thaumic web to entrap their enemy. Insight granted by [[Day magic]] provides the soldiers of both the Citadel Guard and the Towerjacks the ability to enact their disparate strategies with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist\|consumate clarity]], able to predict and respond to the movement of ally and enemy alike with supernatural prescience. At the same time, the Granite Pillar and the Valiant Pegasus fight zealously to inspire their fellows. They press the Druj both east and west with their irresistible fervour for victory.		In the wake of the victory over the Druj, amid the relentless heat of the [[Every_time_it_rains#The_Great_Drought_of_384YE\|great drought]], three Imperial armies - [[Eastern Sky]], [[Seventh Wave]], and [[Fist of the Mountains]] - withdraw from Zenith. They leave behind the [[Citadel Guard]], the [[Granite Pillar]], and the [[Towerjacks]]. In their place come the [[Valiant Pegasus]] - returning to fight in Zenith after a brief sojourn to Bastion to resupply. While the Towerjacks engage the remaining Druj forces in Iteri, the Citadel Guard begin to weave a thaumic web to entrap their enemy. Insight granted by [[Day magic]] provides the soldiers of both the Citadel Guard and the Towerjacks the ability to enact their disparate strategies with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist\|consumate clarity]], able to predict and respond to the movement of ally and enemy alike with supernatural prescience. At the same time, the Granite Pillar and the Valiant Pegasus fight zealously to inspire their fellows. They press the Druj both east and west with their irresistible fervour for victory.

Dre at 18:02, 29 December 2023

2023-12-29T18:02:44Z

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	In the wake of the victory over the Druj, amid the relentless heat of the [[Every_time_it_rains#The_Great_Drought_of_384YE\|great drought]], three Imperial armies - [[Eastern Sky]], [[Seventh Wave]], and [[Fist of the Mountains]] - withdraw from Zenith. They leave behind the [[Citadel Guard]], the [[Granite Pillar]], and the [[Towerjacks]]. In their place come the [[Valiant Pegasus]] - returning to fight in Zenith after a brief sojourn to Bastion to resupply. While the Towerjacks engage the remaining Druj forces in Iteri, the Citadel Guard begin to weave a thaumic web to entrap their enemy. Insight granted by [[Day magic]] provides the soldiers of both the Citadel Guard and the Towerjacks the ability to enact their disparate strategies with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist\|consumate clarity]], able to predict and respond to the movement of ally and enemy alike with supernatural prescience. At the same time, the Granite Pillar and the Valiant Pegasus fight zealously to inspire their fellows. They press the Druj both east and west with their irresistible fervour for victory.		In the wake of the victory over the Druj, amid the relentless heat of the [[Every_time_it_rains#The_Great_Drought_of_384YE\|great drought]], three Imperial armies - [[Eastern Sky]], [[Seventh Wave]], and [[Fist of the Mountains]] - withdraw from Zenith. They leave behind the [[Citadel Guard]], the [[Granite Pillar]], and the [[Towerjacks]]. In their place come the [[Valiant Pegasus]] - returning to fight in Zenith after a brief sojourn to Bastion to resupply. While the Towerjacks engage the remaining Druj forces in Iteri, the Citadel Guard begin to weave a thaumic web to entrap their enemy. Insight granted by [[Day magic]] provides the soldiers of both the Citadel Guard and the Towerjacks the ability to enact their disparate strategies with [[Clarity of the Master Strategist\|consumate clarity]], able to predict and respond to the movement of ally and enemy alike with supernatural prescience. At the same time, the Granite Pillar and the Valiant Pegasus fight zealously to inspire their fellows. They press the Druj both east and west with their irresistible fervour for victory.
	<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Nicassia Avicia of Phoenix Reach, General of the Citadel Guard">Sentinels of Urizen, sword scholars, the heroes of the Empire have killed Druj commanders and we are continuing our campaign. The Druj are bickering amongst themselves. Let us capitalise on our victories and cause further confusion for the Druj. The liberation of Iteri is at hand. Make me proud.</quote></div>		<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Nicassia Avicia of Phoenix Reach, General of the Citadel Guard">Sentinels of Urizen, sword scholars, the heroes of the Empire have killed Druj commanders and we are continuing our campaign. The Druj are bickering amongst themselves. Let us capitalise on our victories and cause further confusion for the Druj. The liberation of Iteri is at hand. Make me proud.</quote></div>
	<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Dame Aurum De Castellan, General of the Eastern Sky">My glorious sky. My guiding constellations. You were the starry lights that ~~lead~~ the fight in Zenith last season. I ask you again to fight for the Urizeni people - Our People, Our Imperials - And push those Druj scum into extermination. For Virtue, for freedom - For Glory!</quote></div>		<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Dame Aurum De Castellan, General of the Eastern Sky">My glorious sky. My guiding constellations. You were the starry lights that led the fight in Zenith last season. I ask you again to fight for the Urizeni people - Our People, Our Imperials - And push those Druj scum into extermination. For Virtue, for freedom - For Glory!</quote></div>
	<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Sigismund Vladislav Kestovia, General of the Golden Axe">The Axe, the Barrens was a victory and now as we promised we march on to Zenith to take the land back. As our forces take Clypion we cut off their escape in Lustri trapping them so we may crush them together.</quote></div>		<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Sigismund Vladislav Kestovia, General of the Golden Axe">The Axe, the Barrens was a victory and now as we promised we march on to Zenith to take the land back. As our forces take Clypion we cut off their escape in Lustri trapping them so we may crush them together.</quote></div>

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	<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Achseh, General of the Valiant Pegasus">The Valiant Pegasus will drive into Zenith in a crusading storm to stand with Urizen we act an unmovable steel wall, against which the Highguard armies, backed by dawn, will crush the vile wickedness and bring death to the Druj.</quote></div>		<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><quote by="Achseh, General of the Valiant Pegasus">The Valiant Pegasus will drive into Zenith in a crusading storm to stand with Urizen we act an unmovable steel wall, against which the Highguard armies, backed by dawn, will crush the vile wickedness and bring death to the Druj.</quote></div>
	==Northern Sunrise==		==Northern Sunrise==
	From out of the north, a massive force of Imperial troops smash their way into the shrouded forest of Lustri. The Eastern Sky and the Seventh Wave, far from abandoning Zenith, have circled round through the mountains of Morrow to unite with the Golden Axe and the Hounds of Glory, fresh from their victory in the Barrens. The Hounds are reinforced by eleven thousand soldiers ~~lead~~ by [[military unit\|independent captains]], [[Bound by Common Cause\|united by Autumn magic]] and honed into a devastating weapon to wield against the Druj. All are warded against the will-sapping power of the Druj miasma.		From out of the north, a massive force of Imperial troops smash their way into the shrouded forest of Lustri. The Eastern Sky and the Seventh Wave, far from abandoning Zenith, have circled round through the mountains of Morrow to unite with the Golden Axe and the Hounds of Glory, fresh from their victory in the Barrens. The Hounds are reinforced by eleven thousand soldiers led by [[military unit\|independent captains]], [[Bound by Common Cause\|united by Autumn magic]] and honed into a devastating weapon to wield against the Druj. All are warded against the will-sapping power of the Druj miasma.

	The Golden Axe lead the conquest of Lustri - their steel fist smashing against the defenders of the mysterious forest with little regard for the magical defences that shroud the woodlands. [[Army_qualities#Driven\|Driven]] by the urge to conquer, they lead the way in battle, an irresistible advance across the land they have marked for conquest, driving their enemies before them. The normal problems caused by having to maintain supply lines do not apply to them - what they do not carry with them they take from the land they conquer. The Eastern Sky match their fervour in an overwhelming assault that drives the Mallum orcs before them, and crashes through the subtle webs of Night magic erected to mislead and misdirect attackers. At the heart of the northern force, the Seventh Wave provides the same inspirational support the other two Highborn armies are providing in the west.		The Golden Axe lead the conquest of Lustri - their steel fist smashing against the defenders of the mysterious forest with little regard for the magical defences that shroud the woodlands. [[Army_qualities#Driven\|Driven]] by the urge to conquer, they lead the way in battle, an irresistible advance across the land they have marked for conquest, driving their enemies before them. The normal problems caused by having to maintain supply lines do not apply to them - what they do not carry with them they take from the land they conquer. The Eastern Sky match their fervour in an overwhelming assault that drives the Mallum orcs before them, and crashes through the subtle webs of Night magic erected to mislead and misdirect attackers. At the heart of the northern force, the Seventh Wave provides the same inspirational support the other two Highborn armies are providing in the west.

Hailmur at 15:41, 5 May 2023

2023-05-05T15:41:44Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:41, 5 May 2023
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	When the call went out from the Assembly, Thomas hung up a sign on his shrine and headed straight for Zenith. His neighbours told him he was mad, and he told them that Loyalty is deeds and words, and that Holberg owed the Empire for helping to save the city from the Druj. Nobody had much use for an ageing bravo in Zenith, but Thomas didn't let that stop him. Inspired by an anointing from the priests enacting the mandate he devoted his time to spying on the Druj, searching for the miasma pillars and for any other way to stop them.		When the call went out from the Assembly, Thomas hung up a sign on his shrine and headed straight for Zenith. His neighbours told him he was mad, and he told them that Loyalty is deeds and words, and that Holberg owed the Empire for helping to save the city from the Druj. Nobody had much use for an ageing bravo in Zenith, but Thomas didn't let that stop him. Inspired by an anointing from the priests enacting the mandate he devoted his time to spying on the Druj, searching for the miasma pillars and for any other way to stop them.

	Now he's returned with important information - he's been able to locate a lone miasma pillar in Iteri which is helping to sustain the miasma over the territory. If the Empire can destroy four of these crucial pillars then the Imperial armies won't face the miasma in the coming season. Since the pillar stands alone, it's an ideal target - it will be possible to destroy this one without needing to coordinate efforts to take down multiple pillars at once. Thomas has an old friend who was in the Sea Wolves once, although given Thomas' shady past he might prefer not to divulge that information. Either way, Thomas has offered to pay the Captain of the [[~~Prominent_guilds~~#The_Sea_Wolves\|Sea Wolves]] 5 crowns if they will make the appropriate arrangements to deal with the pillar and the other threats in the area.		Now he's returned with important information - he's been able to locate a lone miasma pillar in Iteri which is helping to sustain the miasma over the territory. If the Empire can destroy four of these crucial pillars then the Imperial armies won't face the miasma in the coming season. Since the pillar stands alone, it's an ideal target - it will be possible to destroy this one without needing to coordinate efforts to take down multiple pillars at once. Thomas has an old friend who was in the Sea Wolves once, although given Thomas' shady past he might prefer not to divulge that information. Either way, Thomas has offered to pay the Captain of the [[The League groups#The_Sea_Wolves\|Sea Wolves]] 5 crowns if they will make the appropriate arrangements to deal with the pillar and the other threats in the area.

	Obviously five crowns isn't enough to hire a band of mercenaries, but Thomas is hoping that other ''Loyal'' citizens of Holberg will dip into their pursue and sweeten the pot. After-all, the Empire came to the aid of Holberg when it was trouble, so it's a fair reckoning for people to find a few spare coins to help an ally now they're in trouble with the Druj.		Obviously five crowns isn't enough to hire a band of mercenaries, but Thomas is hoping that other ''Loyal'' citizens of Holberg will dip into their pursue and sweeten the pot. After-all, the Empire came to the aid of Holberg when it was trouble, so it's a fair reckoning for people to find a few spare coins to help an ally now they're in trouble with the Druj.

Hailmur: /* Rift in the Veil (Conjunction) */

2023-03-15T18:46:08Z

Rift in the Veil (Conjunction)

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:46, 15 March 2023
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	Just before the equinox a young and somewhat bookish winter mage, Frumence the Retainer of House Vonsesse, tells of a chance encounter with a giant beast and a solid account of what it is. It appears that the Druj have somehow released a creature loyal to [[Agramant\|Blood on the Snow]] to lend them aid in their hour of need. The terrible eternal, always eager to spread bloodshed and death has sent forth the Endless Stalker, a fearsome legend said to walk the Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt in the Winter Realm. Described as a massive horned horror, possessed of vicious claws and a taste for flesh it now runs amok among the military units camped with the Hounds of Glory, slaking its thirst and devourer any it comes across.		Just before the equinox a young and somewhat bookish winter mage, Frumence the Retainer of House Vonsesse, tells of a chance encounter with a giant beast and a solid account of what it is. It appears that the Druj have somehow released a creature loyal to [[Agramant\|Blood on the Snow]] to lend them aid in their hour of need. The terrible eternal, always eager to spread bloodshed and death has sent forth the Endless Stalker, a fearsome legend said to walk the Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt in the Winter Realm. Described as a massive horned horror, possessed of vicious claws and a taste for flesh it now runs amok among the military units camped with the Hounds of Glory, slaking its thirst and devourer any it comes across.

	Should this violent terror be left unchecked, it will run amok picking off stragglers from any Imperial army unlucky enough to remain in Zenith this season. The creature will inflict 200 casualties in the coming season, spread across the Imperial armies in Zenith. Befitting the expected duties of the title and threat posed by the monster, the civil service have asked that Morrigan Mortér, the current [[Knight-protector of Winter]] arrange for a party of Imperial heroes to deal with the monster in the Rift in the Veil.		Should this violent terror be left unchecked, it will run amok picking off stragglers from any Imperial army unlucky enough to remain in Zenith this season. The creature will inflict 200 casualties in the coming season, spread across the Imperial armies in Zenith. Befitting the expected duties of the title and threat posed by the monster, the civil service have asked that Morrigan Mortér, the current [[Knight-protector\|Knight-protector of Winter]] arrange for a party of Imperial heroes to deal with the monster in the Rift in the Veil.

	The scouts have spotted five tortured souls in this area, all moving towards the ''Glade of Night Enshrouding'' for the battle. They are likely to be a significant threat and advice should be taken from the [[High Exorcist]] or the [[Master of the School of Exorcism]] to ensure that they have made the right preparations to deal with these monsters. Any tortured souls destroyed here will be be one less facing off against the Empire in the battle.		The scouts have spotted five tortured souls in this area, all moving towards the ''Glade of Night Enshrouding'' for the battle. They are likely to be a significant threat and advice should be taken from the [[High Exorcist]] or the [[Master of the School of Exorcism]] to ensure that they have made the right preparations to deal with these monsters. Any tortured souls destroyed here will be be one less facing off against the Empire in the battle.

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:13, 1 August 2025
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	For the first time since the campaign began, the forces striving to drive the Druj out of Zenith are able to operate from a safe refuge. With the victory over Kavor Eyepeel, Imperial forces were able to employ the power of the Citadel Guard to raise a [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae\|citadel of gleaming ice and midnight-black stone]] in Clypion, providing valuable protection against the malice of the orcs. The Druj have raised their own magical defences of course - infesting the forest of [[Zenith#Lustri\|Lustri]] with [[Night magic]], and taking advantage of the corruption they have spread in [[Zenith#Proceris\|Proceris]] to raise a twisted fortress of [[Spring magic]] over the former farmlands of Urizen.		For the first time since the campaign began, the forces striving to drive the Druj out of Zenith are able to operate from a safe refuge. With the victory over Kavor Eyepeel, Imperial forces were able to employ the power of the Citadel Guard to raise a [[Frozen Citadel of Cathan Canae\|citadel of gleaming ice and midnight-black stone]] in Clypion, providing valuable protection against the malice of the orcs. The Druj have raised their own magical defences of course - infesting the forest of [[Zenith#Lustri\|Lustri]] with [[Night magic]], and taking advantage of the corruption they have spread in [[Zenith#Proceris\|Proceris]] to raise a twisted fortress of [[Spring magic]] over the former farmlands of Urizen.

	There is other magic at work in Zenith as well - refreshing Spring magic infuses every precious mouthful of water with life-giving grace. The [[~~Ritual_theory~~#The_Law_of_Dominion\|Law of Dominion]] recognises that Zenith is Druj territory, so the great tempest raging across the Empire does not touch the mountains and marshes of eastern Urizen. There is no rain to break the tyranny of the sun, nothing to offer relief from the baking heat. Even nightfall does little to lessen the oppressive, feverish temperature. Those in heavy armour, those forced to fight beneath the relentless flaming eye in the sky are left exhausted - grateful for the reinvigorating, soothing freshness of a mouthful of pure water infused with the power of Spring. At least the heat affects the Druj warriors - used to fighting in the dank shade of the marsh and the forest - at least as much as it does Imperial heroes.		There is other magic at work in Zenith as well - refreshing Spring magic infuses every precious mouthful of water with life-giving grace. The [[Laws_of_magic#The_Law_of_Dominion\|Law of Dominion]] recognises that Zenith is Druj territory, so the great tempest raging across the Empire does not touch the mountains and marshes of eastern Urizen. There is no rain to break the tyranny of the sun, nothing to offer relief from the baking heat. Even nightfall does little to lessen the oppressive, feverish temperature. Those in heavy armour, those forced to fight beneath the relentless flaming eye in the sky are left exhausted - grateful for the reinvigorating, soothing freshness of a mouthful of pure water infused with the power of Spring. At least the heat affects the Druj warriors - used to fighting in the dank shade of the marsh and the forest - at least as much as it does Imperial heroes.

	Shortly after the Spring Equinox, the people of Urizen - especially those in Zenith, especially those who are at their lowest ebb - hear a song in their dreams. When they awaken they remember a lone voice singing in the darkness, and a single star high in the sky above a dark road. They recount a feeling of isolation and loneliness that slowly gives way to an awareness of a great sea of people, reaching out to them, filling them with hope. Those who experience the dream cannot help but describe it to their friends on awakening - some even attempt to recapture the music of the song. In some cases they dream of the song and the star only once. Others hear it every night when they sleep, and awaken refreshed. It strengthens the resolve of the Urizen people, especially those fighting alongside the Citadel Guard. There is no doubt among the magically savvy Urizeni that this is the result of some enchantment or other - some historically minded [[stargazer\|stargazers]] have heard of a ritual called ''The Invocation of the Loquacious Birds'' which asks [[Lashonar]] to deliver a heart-felt message to those in need - but that does nothing to diminish the powerful uplifting effect of the vision. The number of people who abandon hope and accept the [[Kaela#The_Gift_of_Kaela\|Gift of Kaela]] diminishes dramatically in the wake of the vision.		Shortly after the Spring Equinox, the people of Urizen - especially those in Zenith, especially those who are at their lowest ebb - hear a song in their dreams. When they awaken they remember a lone voice singing in the darkness, and a single star high in the sky above a dark road. They recount a feeling of isolation and loneliness that slowly gives way to an awareness of a great sea of people, reaching out to them, filling them with hope. Those who experience the dream cannot help but describe it to their friends on awakening - some even attempt to recapture the music of the song. In some cases they dream of the song and the star only once. Others hear it every night when they sleep, and awaken refreshed. It strengthens the resolve of the Urizen people, especially those fighting alongside the Citadel Guard. There is no doubt among the magically savvy Urizeni that this is the result of some enchantment or other - some historically minded [[stargazer\|stargazers]] have heard of a ritual called ''The Invocation of the Loquacious Birds'' which asks [[Lashonar]] to deliver a heart-felt message to those in need - but that does nothing to diminish the powerful uplifting effect of the vision. The number of people who abandon hope and accept the [[Kaela#The_Gift_of_Kaela\|Gift of Kaela]] diminishes dramatically in the wake of the vision.

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:12, 13 August 2025
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	There is only one regio in the area, and a powerful night enchantment like this is certain to take ten minutes to cast. The Druj need to perform seven rituals, so the quicker the Empire can seize the regio and the longer they can hold it, the fewer rituals the Druj will be able to perform.		There is only one regio in the area, and a powerful night enchantment like this is certain to take ten minutes to cast. The Druj need to perform seven rituals, so the quicker the Empire can seize the regio and the longer they can hold it, the fewer rituals the Druj will be able to perform.

	===~~Battlefied~~ Opportunities===		===Battlefield Opportunities===
	====Curse the Druj Generals====		====Curse the Druj Generals====
	* '''Killing the Druj generals will achieve nothing, but this is a perfect opportunity to capture one or more generals and use them to curse their armies'''		* '''Killing the Druj generals will achieve nothing, but this is a perfect opportunity to capture one or more generals and use them to curse their armies'''
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	* '''The Druj are skilled at employing marshlings on the battlefield to threaten their enemies'''		* '''The Druj are skilled at employing marshlings on the battlefield to threaten their enemies'''
	* '''Destroying the marshlings at the Plantation of Tall Ferns will mean one less monster to deal with on the battle'''		* '''Destroying the marshlings at the Plantation of Tall Ferns will mean one less monster to deal with on the battle'''
	A [[marshwalker\| marshling]] is a semi-humanoid creature that appears to be made entirely of plant material. They are fearsome foes that can pose a terrible threat when roused to violence. They are found throughout Druj lands, and the barbarians are skilled at employing them in battle herding them towards their enemies.		A [[marshwalker\|marshling]] is a semi-humanoid creature that appears to be made entirely of plant material. They are fearsome foes that can pose a terrible threat when roused to violence. They are found throughout Druj lands, and the barbarians are skilled at employing them in battle herding them towards their enemies.

	A number of Druj groups have been spotted shepherding marshlings towards the ''Glade of Night Enshrouding''. If the Empire can destroy the marshlings at the Plantation of Tall Ferns before they reach Occursion then there will be half the number encountered on the battle.		A number of Druj groups have been spotted shepherding marshlings towards the ''Glade of Night Enshrouding''. If the Empire can destroy the marshlings at the Plantation of Tall Ferns before they reach Occursion then there will be half the number encountered on the battle.
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	Just before the equinox a young and somewhat bookish winter mage, Frumence the Retainer of House Vonsesse, tells of a chance encounter with a giant beast and a solid account of what it is. It appears that the Druj have somehow released a creature loyal to [[Agramant\|Blood on the Snow]] to lend them aid in their hour of need. The terrible eternal, always eager to spread bloodshed and death has sent forth the Endless Stalker, a fearsome legend said to walk the Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt in the Winter Realm. Described as a massive horned horror, possessed of vicious claws and a taste for flesh it now runs amok among the military units camped with the Hounds of Glory, slaking its thirst and devourer any it comes across.		Just before the equinox a young and somewhat bookish winter mage, Frumence the Retainer of House Vonsesse, tells of a chance encounter with a giant beast and a solid account of what it is. It appears that the Druj have somehow released a creature loyal to [[Agramant\|Blood on the Snow]] to lend them aid in their hour of need. The terrible eternal, always eager to spread bloodshed and death has sent forth the Endless Stalker, a fearsome legend said to walk the Dreamscape of the Endless Hunt in the Winter Realm. Described as a massive horned horror, possessed of vicious claws and a taste for flesh it now runs amok among the military units camped with the Hounds of Glory, slaking its thirst and devourer any it comes across.

	Should this violent terror be left unchecked, it will run amok picking off stragglers from any Imperial army unlucky enough to remain in Zenith this season. The creature will inflict 200 casualties in the coming season, spread across the Imperial armies in Zenith. Befitting the expected duties of the title and threat posed by the monster, the civil service have asked that Morrigan ~~Mortér~~, the current [[Knight-protector\|Knight-protector of Winter]] arrange for a party of Imperial heroes to deal with the monster in the Rift in the Veil.		Should this violent terror be left unchecked, it will run amok picking off stragglers from any Imperial army unlucky enough to remain in Zenith this season. The creature will inflict 200 casualties in the coming season, spread across the Imperial armies in Zenith. Befitting the expected duties of the title and threat posed by the monster, the civil service have asked that Morrigan Mortére, the current [[Knight-protector\|Knight-protector of Winter]] arrange for a party of Imperial heroes to deal with the monster in the Rift in the Veil.

	The scouts have spotted five tortured souls in this area, all moving towards the ''Glade of Night Enshrouding'' for the battle. They are likely to be a significant threat and advice should be taken from the [[High Exorcist]] or the [[Master of the School of Exorcism]] to ensure that they have made the right preparations to deal with these monsters. Any tortured souls destroyed here will be one less facing off against the Empire in the battle.		The scouts have spotted five tortured souls in this area, all moving towards the ''Glade of Night Enshrouding'' for the battle. They are likely to be a significant threat and advice should be taken from the [[High Exorcist]] or the [[Master of the School of Exorcism]] to ensure that they have made the right preparations to deal with these monsters. Any tortured souls destroyed here will be one less facing off against the Empire in the battle.
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	* '''The civil service request that ''Aurum of Nightingale Temple'' arrange for these pillars to be destroyed'''		* '''The civil service request that ''Aurum of Nightingale Temple'' arrange for these pillars to be destroyed'''

	The mandate enacted by Aurum of Nightingale Temple has been pivotal in turning the tide of the war in the Empire's favour, by allowing them to resist the corrosive impact of the miasma. It has also made it possible for the Empire to identify the most important [[Druj_miasma#Miasma_Pillars\|miasma pillars]] in Zenith. Some of the pillars are free standing, but sadly in Proceris, there are three crucial pillars, all of which are linked together. The Empire has never succeeded in destroying three pillars simultaneously, but triumph here would make a huge difference. If the Empire can destroy four of these crucial pillars then the Imperial armies won't face the ~~miama~~ in the coming season.		The mandate enacted by Aurum of Nightingale Temple has been pivotal in turning the tide of the war in the Empire's favour, by allowing them to resist the corrosive impact of the miasma. It has also made it possible for the Empire to identify the most important [[Druj_miasma#Miasma_Pillars\|miasma pillars]] in Zenith. Some of the pillars are free standing, but sadly in Proceris, there are three crucial pillars, all of which are linked together. The Empire has never succeeded in destroying three pillars simultaneously, but triumph here would make a huge difference. If the Empire can destroy four of these crucial pillars then the Imperial armies won't face the miasma in the coming season.

	In light of the lead Aurum has shown on the issue, the civil service have asked the priest to take responsibility for arranging a group to go and target the pillars. Whoever is sent will need to have sufficient skills and resources to destroy all three pillars simultaneously.		In light of the lead Aurum has shown on the issue, the civil service have asked the priest to take responsibility for arranging a group to go and target the pillars. Whoever is sent will need to have sufficient skills and resources to destroy all three pillars simultaneously.