Wiki Category: Events

=Event Story=

Stories of hardship and glory travel up from the southern front, where Newhope and Clan Stormjarl’s forces have successfully bridged their frontlines at a difficult cost. Clan Grimward’s raiders at sea remain a threat, but cannot stop the supplies and aid reaching Clan Stormjarl via the new land-bridge. Meanwhile, whispers travel the former lands of Clan Shattered Spear. The flame of resistance that had fought for freedom and revenge over the last few months… is snuffed out. Survivors, freed thralls, and figures important to the clan’s future begin to emerge from the Great Forest after escaping Clan Stonetooth’s grasp, allowing more of Shattered Spear’s people to be reunited in their current home within Clan Nightriver.

As the heat of summer begins to arrive though, news quickly travels from Hammerfall. The mixed army of Aldorian Marines, Shattered Spear remnant warpacks, and Clan Goldenfield warpacks had continued their advance against Clan Ironmound over the last month, but reports begin to arrive confirming that Clan Ironmound has successfully pulled their lines back to the Hammerfall area, and are now bolstered by their prepared defensive positions. The towns of Bladehome and Shieldhaven remain stranded behind Ironmound’s lines and under constant siege since last year. The two walled towns still stand, but may be at risk of falling if the sieges last much longer, making the need to push Ironmound back further a critical effort before the army of Clan Stonetooth returns to this frontline to attack once again. Any attempted advances by allies have already proven costly though, with Ironmound’s defensive tactics proving to be difficult to crack.

Unexpectedly, the call for aid from any available allies comes not from martial forces in the area, but instead from Jarl Laela Nightriver, Ambassador of Clan Nightriver. Through her efforts, contact has been made directly with Clan Ironmound’s Clanleader, Gustav Ironmound, who has agreed to a meeting of delegates on the frontlines to receive discussion and be heard in return. Contact has been successful, but due to being enemies Ironmound has sent terms.

Their time has been offered up, but requires payments of services, honorbound, or resources to be made to their clan in trade. After a trade is agreed upon, Ironmound’s leaders will allow discussion to happen for as long as battle happens, as enemies of this war. Some may see this as too high of demands from the clan, but others see that Ironmound even just becoming neutral could put them at great risk of angering both Clans Grimward and Stonetooth enough for invasion, making their homeland’s surrounded situation a lethal one for their people. Thus, Ambassador Laela’s calls for aid are not just for those who have words to speak, but also those who have offerings to provide and those skilled in combat to fight while discussions happen.

For those who have fought against Ironmound, their developing hatred for their current allies of Clan Stonetooth has become as well known as their honor strict culture. Many believe that the clan had no interest in fighting in this war, and would have been neutral if not for their pact with Clan Grimward and their clan’s precarious location as the war developed after the first year. With that, some like Jarl Laela see the war’s new situation as an opportunity to help the clan’s return to neutrality with honorable trade, or with luck maybe even convince them with enough aid to switch sides all together.

Rumors have it that Clan Ironmound has been pressured to fully apply themselves to the war on Grimward’s side, so if persuasions fail it may see the sieges of Bladehome and Shieldhaven severely worsen as Stonetooth’s armies are soon to return to the frontlines.

=Event Summary=

Duels waged throughout the day while peaceful talks took place across the outpost. The Clanleader of Ironmound was no easy negotiator, nor were his warriors easy to fight. 

While the results of the day were by no means questionable, especially the celebrations that followed, Clan Ironmound is making their new stance known across the continent. In the days that followed this impromptu “Moot,” leadership across the continent are receiving the following letter:

“To the whole of Mardrun,

Clan Ironmound hereby withdraws our allegiance from the Ironward Alliance and Clan Grimward’s joint war effort with Clan Stonetooth.

We understand the gravity of this declaration, and the perceived stain on our honor it will leave behind. We make it with clear minds, knowing full well the judgment history may pass upon us. Some will call us traitors. Others will call us cowards. We accept that burden.

What we cannot accept is continuing to fight for those who have long since abandoned the honor and principles the Ulven people have always upheld.

The Ironward Alliance was forged to defend our people, to protect our homeland, and to wage war with honor. We did not swear to tolerate disrespect in matters of honor or to watch our allies create more enemies by allowing fallen warriors bodies to lay out and rise again.

Our loyalty and commitment to the Ironward Alliance came from a place of honor, and of Ulven who stood by their honor in the face of uncertainty. We now understand that our loyalty has been mistaken for obedience.

Honor is not blind submission. It is the willingness to stand by what is right, even when doing so demands sacrifice. An oath binds both those who swear it and those who receive it. The Great Wolf is not subjective in his judgments; Honor is Honor and the stain on ours will be hard fought to be righted again, but it is not something we can fix from within the confines of an alliance with Clan Stonetooth.

Leading up to this day, through many battles over the last year, Our opponents have shown us their honor. No matter how much blood is spilled, they never turned their backs on what is right and honorable while facing uncertain odds. Their actions, when compared to our previous allies, are not a small part of why this decision has come now.

Clan Ironmound officially stands with Newhope, Clan Nightriver, Clan Shattered Spear, Aylin’s Reach, New Aldoria, Bladehome, Lumeria, Clan Goldenfield, and all others who choose to oppose the terror of Clan Grimward and Stonetooth.

For Grimward and Stonetooth, much the same as our announcement to join your side of the war, let this missive be a warning to you. You have the remainder of the month to see your exit from Ironmound territory, after which the fight will continue with us being on opposing sides of this conflict.

May your steel be forged in honor.  

Ironmound Warleader Einar Stonefist”

=Event Story=

Scenario 1 – Stormjarl and The Yurnai

Nightriver and Newhope continue their push into Grimward territory with renewed vigor now that the worst of the Spring thaw and storms are behind us. With Spring’s sweet heat rousing moods, the combined forces of Newhope and freshly-arrived Clan Nightriver, now with concentrated focus, resume their campaign to push against Grimward across the Yurnai River. The influx of fresh Nightriver warriors has renewed morale and allowed Newhope to push the warfront further into Grimward controlled territory making it less dangerous to navigate the area.

Similarly, with Clan Stormjarl’s recent success in taking some lost land back from Clan Grimward, hunger for revenge has grown amongst the warriors and even many in leadership. Now though, the clan’s own built outposts on the northern half of The Scar stand in their way, having been sieged and taken by Grimward during their invasion the prior year.

Each area’s confidence has sharpened into boldness, and both sides feel ready to push into a new offensive. Connecting the Yurnai Bridge to Stormjarl territory would strengthen the tentative foothold around the bridge, making it much more easily defensible, and allowing an easier, much safer means of getting support to and from mainland Stormjarl territory. In a coordinated effort, Clan Stormjarl has begun their attack northeast up the river while Newhope and Clan Nightriver attack southwest down the river, hoping to connect in the middle and create a land path to join the three allies and their critical supply lines.

Opposing this renewed campaign are the warriors of Clan Grimward, who have also spent the winter preparing for war and recovering from the defeat at the Battle of Blooded Shores. The emboldened martial forces and stretching supply lines of various allies will be put to the test, as any territory taken from Grimward will need to be pried away from stalwart warriors in their own lands. The success, or failure, of these critical first engagements will reveal if this campaign across the Yurnai carries forward this initial momentum or breaks upon the defenses of the enemy.

Scenario 2 – Shattered Spear Resistance

With the recent revelation of Clanleader Laifnar Icefury’s survival and his proclamation to rise up, a fire has been lit in the Ulven of Shattered Spear. While those who escaped Stonetooth’s initial attack two years ago continue to help allied forces push back towards their homelands, the Shattered Spear who were unlucky to be conquered have started fighting back. The Shattered Spear resistance has begun. 

The resistance has given Stonetooth a taste of their own medicine, employing hit and run tactics to free their own thralled people and overrun settlements. While the tactics have been quite successful, it has drawn the attention of the main Stonetooth forces who have abandoned the Goldenfield warfront and now travel back to Shattered Spear lands. 

With Stonetooth now bearing down on them and Shattered Spear Ulven still imprisoned in their own lands, the resistance has a hard battle ahead. Many of their people know that they may not survive to see summer, but still aim to make an impact far behind the war’s frontlines and crimson the ground of their homeland with invader’s blood.

=Event Summary=

Saturday: Stormjarl and the Yurnai

Newhope and Stormjarl’s effort to join warfronts was anything but a slow start, as each side immediately found themselves needing to strategize their fighting power, while also a mysterious Grimward archer sent arrows with cryptic messages into each camp. With no time to waste decoding what could’ve been nothing, fighters went out to defend their camps against Grimward.

Newhope’s lack of front-line fighters became an immediate concern when their forces were pushed back just enough to let Grimward raiders slip through to do damage to their supply line. Scouts did their best to be quick on their feet to deliver messages between camps, but with the constant pressure Grimward was placing, both on the camps and the traveling scouts, the message was not quick enough to save Newhope from another defeat. 

Stormjarl, being successful so far on their side, decided to ferry over all the warriors they could spare. Now stretched thin, the warriors who stayed continued their success by the skin of their teeth. Patched-up armor and patched-up bodies managed to carry the Stormjarl side until finally, there was enough of an opening to merge the camps together. Unfortunately, the support from Stormjarl wasn’t enough to pull together the line for the Newhope side, and Grimward raiders continued to wreak havoc on their supply lines.

The merging of the camps finally gave each side a moment to breath, and finally the time to decipher the strange messages that had been shot into their respective camps at the beginning of the day. As it turned out, each camp had received half of a larger puzzle, beaconing them to a location at a certain time. 

The night persisted with more pressure from Grimward, but thanks to all the warriors being together, no more raiders were able to break through. As for the mysterious meeting point—only tight lips can be found among the brave group that ventured out to it. 

Newhope’s forces may have been forced to a halt, but the continued success of Clan Stormjarl was just able to secure the combined warfront. Only time will tell if the allied forces are able to keep it that way.

Sunday: Shattered Spear Resistance

As the sun rose and crossed the sky, the Shattered Spear resistance, lead by Clanleader Laifnar Icefury, worked to push through Stonetooth warriors and Thrallkeepers to free their kin and push further into the stolen Shattered Spear territory.

As Thralls were freed and joined the ranks of the resistance fighters, more territory was able to be taken and held against Stonetooth. Several successful ambush attacks gained the group enough ground that High Priestess Gyda Shattered Spear, previously taken hostage by Stonetooth at the start of the war, was able to be saved from Stonetooth’s captivity. 

While the group found initial success in the rapid guerilla tactics, Stonetooth’s main army returning from the front lines to the east began to respond to the uprising; descending on the pockets of resistance across the clan, with very few being able to escape before the clanleader’s personal group was completely surrounded. Quickly finding themselves surrounded with limited options, the resistance fighters were forced to decide who would stay to buy time for the delegates and fighters selected to carry the stories of their time under Stonetooth further south into friendly territory.  

Those chosen to take the dangerous passage back to safer lands left swiftly, leaving the brave resistance fighters to stand against the growing forces of Stonetooth. Their final fight was explosive, with every fighter refusing to go alone to the Great Wolf, taking down as many Stonetooth with them as they could. The Clanleader, refusing to leave his people even in the face of overwhelming odds, fought until the bitter end alongside the other Shattered Spear warriors who refused to yield to Stonetooth’s forces.

== Event Story ==

Snow and ice across Mardrun are definitively thawed, creating its own set of challenges as Goldenfield, Nightriver, and Aldorian boots continue to stomp through mud, this time almost completely unimpeded by Stonetooth. Reports come in that their marauders are largely gone from the front-lines, and even raids in the rear-lines seem to have largely faded. As Ironmound is put on the defensive and seems to be making an organized retreat towards Hammerfall, spreading news of a Shattered Spear resistance make it seem likely that Stonetooth is returning west to quell the uprising.. Unfortunately for Goldenfield though, is the result of the damage Stonetooth’s incursion left behind. Bodies left behind to freeze over the winter are thawing and just as was suspected, those bodies are rising again.

Every inch of ground gained against Stonetooth runs the risk of undead rising behind the front line. To make matters worse, through the sounds of shambling feet and groans from the undead, the bone-chilling screech of the monsters come to be known as Salt Beasts are heard echoing through the woods. Rumors pass among units and scouts that these occurrences are not happenstance, but intentionally staged by Stonetooth to cause harm as they leave and hurt morale.

As Nightriver forces continue to redeploy to the Yurnai River, transferring the battle lines to Aldorian soldiers, the focus has been maintaining the front line and supply lines, not clearing retaken territory. This has left a concern of increased undead sightings and the presence of salt beasts left behind by Stonetooth forces being left unchecked. A call for aid has been made to sweep and clear returned territory while martial forces focus on the advance of the front line against retreating Stonetooth and Ironmound forces, otherwise further risking the people of Clan Goldenfield and collapse of supplies going to the frontlines.

To the surprise of Goldenfield and its allies, Clan Spiritclaw steps in; a fighting force of divine magic and Truthseekers to aid in putting the undead back down, find out more about the Salt Beasts, and whether or not these monsters are connected to Mordok. While Spiritclaw is decidedly still neutral, no one can deny the pressing need to clear undead away before this continent ends up on the same path to destruction as Faedrun. The clanleader’s announcement of aid to Goldenfield makes claim that slaying monsters is the duty of all ulven people, and they will not be drawing blades against anything else.

== Event Summary ==

Chaos reigns through the villages, roads, and mud covered lands behind the frontlines of Clan Goldenfield as rising undead spread across the lands while salt beasts stalk the wounded and alone for opportunist meals. Goldenfield’s forces and people find themselves in disarray as they combat or flee from dangers from any direction, but they do not face these monsters alone. The rearline forces of the Aldoria Marines, casters from Clan Spiritclaw, and friends and allies from all walks of life answer the call for aid.

The arrival of so many allies is impactful, but they find the day to be harried with challenges beyond the expected monsters. With no official leadership arriving from Clan Goldenfield, those in the area had to find ways to organize their mixed independent forces to scout, protect the camp, and send out patrols. Despite the undead seeming endless and coming from any direction, the defenders stood through the whole day and kept the wounded and resting protected. Not once did their makeshift camp find itself at risk of falling or was anyone abandoned to be feasted upon, although the salt beasts made the job even harder.

As the undead attacked the camp and kept patrols busy, lone salt beasts stalked from a distance like hunters, closing the distance to go for wounded or anyone not keeping an eye on them. Hurling dangerous spell bolts and swiping with crude weapons and protrusions of their own limbs, anyone not careful risked getting crippled or critically wounded, although thanks to weavers, clerics, and a skilled healer, only a few found themselves nearly meeting their gods.

The day saw unexpected encounters pop up as scouts ventured through the muddy forests and fields; Aldorian Marines worked with allies to get through traps and secure stolen goods stashed by bandits, while casters formed teams to venture out and handle obscure pools of magic seemingly caused by the rising of undead in the area. A great oak infected with harmful mana was even cured, but disturbing rumors pass that several casters had a shared vision while meditating near the oak tree for research. This vision reportedly showed a Stonetooth scout luring a horde undead to a camp of Goldenfield refugees at the very same oak during a prior night. Some believe that the undead killed throughout the day were these very same refugees.

Equally disturbing but less a rumor, scouts later found a lair belonging to the salt beasts, filled with flesh and bones from past their kills, shedded skins of the monsters, and oddest of all: a block of salt. Many theories fly as to where it came from and its purpose, but the most prominent stands that Stonetooth may have placed it to attract the salt beasts. On top of the salt beasts’ confusing and dangerous nature though, the Clan Spiritclaw researchers also learned them to be clever enough to avoid ambushes and able to recall away to safety when in danger. Despite receiving help from others and theories successfully being tested with the salt block, no Salt Beasts were killed in this area or able to be researched by Spiritclaw. With the salt beasts unable to claim further meals though and the potential need for their blocks of salt being disrupted, reports come that the creatures appear to have begun moving back north to the Great Forest.

The day was difficult and had dangers at every turn, but the crippled Clan Goldenfield found itself fortunate to have allies rising to meet every challenge they encountered. Goldenfield lands are not fully cured of biting undead and salt beasts, but the notable hordes have been smited and salt beasts mostly driven off. None know when Goldenfield will be fully safe again, but the clan seems to have finally been pulled away from the precipice of collapse even though significant rebuilding is still needed. Clan Spiritclaw did not get their answer as to whether salt beasts carry relation to mordok and some question if they will remain to finish the job, but with the north stabilizing attention shifts southward where Clan Nightriver marches. The battle across the Yurnai river rages on in Grimward and Stormjarl territories, the death count rapidly rising as neither side relents; but one must eventually break.

==Event Info==

Ice and snow across Mardrun quickly turns to muck as the seasons turn over to warmer, more unreliable weather. Between the melting snow and the pouring rain, trails and footpaths all over the continent are becoming pitted and borderline un-traversable without extra hands to pull both feet and supplies out of the mud. 

But through the muck, mud, rain, and slop, Nightriver’s army pushes on. After Prince Aylin’s agreement to pledge his martial forces to Clan Goldenfield, many expected Nightriver to focus their efforts alongside Newhope to secure their foothold on the other side of the Yurnai, but Nightriver is not a Clan known for leaving their allies behind. While Aylin’s Reach and Nightriver’s forces come together to start pushing back the Stonetooth incursion, land is lost and won in a constant battle of attrition. Supplies are constantly moving into the area to support these battles and keep the line moving forward as Nightriver’s forces continue to push Stonetooth back.

These rear supply lines have seen quick, intense fights over the control and safety of the supplies. Between either small groups of bandits or Stonetooth forces trying to take them from Goldenfield, with rumors of even bandits sometimes fighting Stonetooth– Clan Goldenfield, already hit hard by Stonetooth’s initial blunt-force offensive into their lands through the winter, cannot afford to lose even more supplies to these quick-and-dirty raids. With Nightriver’s present forces and Aylin’s Reach still-arriving troops keeping the main fight well-in-hand, allies are called in to fill the gaps and secure the supply routes behind the main fights.

Blood spilled across golden fields will stain the grain forever, but the grass can only grow greener where you water it.

==Event Summary==

​​The day started with a thin layer of fresh snow dusting the ground, peaceful and pure, before the sun melted it away and boots tore across the dirt. The mucky mess spared absolutely no one as the water levels continued to rise throughout the day.

But the water wasn’t all that had risen. A small amount of Undead made their way towards the camp. Luckily, they never made it or tore down any allies, but their presence confirmed the fears of many– that unfound bodies from the winter battles are thawing, and Stonetooth leaving behind bodies without burning them could spell very, very badly for the continent.

Goldenfields operations throughout the day went contested, at first by Grimward soldiers who caused supply chain efforts to notably slow down, but then heavy bandit activity quickly moved into the area. Whether the hunger these people used to gain favor was real or not, Goldenfield’s hospitable ways and hesitation to send away a hungry group of people cost them supplies. Land was won back and several logistical goals of the day were completed, but shipments have been delayed and supplies were lost to these bandits, and only time will tell how great of a loss it truly was.

Among the dirt and muck, it seems Clan Stonetooth left behind quite a bit of their own mess in their evident rush to leave the area. Several sites of apparent worship were seen on the trails between outposts, each one with trinkets and offerings left behind to a specific god in what seems to be a pantheon the Stonetooth believe in. Each site included a prayer written in ancient Ulven, leaving those with knowledge on Ulven and their religious practices able to decipher the meaning. One in particular was especially gruesome, and according to the prayer left behind, was actually the strung up body of one of Stonetooth’s own, left there as a shameful reminder of his or her own failures to their people and gods for “failing their oath”

The only question that seemed to go unanswered was– where are all the Stonetooth now?
Each prayer left behind, every altar left untouched gave the impression that Clan Stonetooth intended to stay in the area. Keeping this area conquered just like the land they took from Clan Shattered Spear seemed like Stonetooth’s main goal, so where could they have gone without enough time to take their ritualistic things with them?
But just as the night watch was starting to arrive, the question was answered.
A herd of Shattered Spear thralls came screaming out of the trees quickly after the first group had already been cut down, but rather than raise their swords against the Goldenfield allies, their attention turned to their Thrall-Watcher. Each one took turns wounding him, running him almost back into the tree line before he finally fell, left to bleed out in the dirt the way he’d done with so many Shattered Spear before.
One thrall stood tall, pulling a letter from his pouch and reading out loud in front of all the witnesses in camp– Clanleader Laifnar Icefury has raised Clan Shattered Spear from their positions as prisoners of war to that of rebels fighting back against their captors. The price of their freedom will be high, but Clan Shattered Spear has never been known to shy away from a fight. The Great Wolf will hear their names in the months to come.

==Event Story==

The cold of winter settles even deeper across Mardrun as the violence and bloodshed slows on the main battlefields, yet rumors still pass of Clan Grimward’s forces probing against the Yurnai bridge defenses, skirmishes happening on Clan Stormjarl’s borders, and a smaller allied incursion into Grimward lands turning precarious. Piercing-cold winds have made several areas completely impossible to risk spending prolonged time outside of a shelter or away from a campfire. While the year has seen significant success on the southern warfronts, Clan Stonetooth’s resolve has not lessened despite the blistering weather. Clan Nightriver’s push into the north is still slow-going and costly on supplies, but their people remain hopeful as reinvigorated Shattered Spear warpacks have bolstered the efforts of freeing Clan Goldenfield from the marauding warpacks.

Following the success of Newhope’s Yurnai Bridge offensive and Clan Stormjarl’s counter-offensive against Clan Grimward, the flames of morale have begun to rise from the embers and glow brightly again after being dimmed for so long. And now, the continent of Mardrun is buzzing with anticipation for the annual Newhope Political Dinner. Duchess Mary cul Tricuspis, better known for her title as Lictor, has sent an invitation across the continent to leadership from allied territories as well as neutral clans.

Many expect to see representatives from all over the continent come together in celebration or simply to discuss what comes next as the tides of war will surely rise again come spring. Interest has peaked within Newhope as news of arriving larger names from Clan Nightriver, Aylin’s Reach, Clan Stormjarl, and even other council members as Lictor Mary herself will be in attendance. The prospect of representatives from neutral clans’ potential arrival also has everyone abuzz and rumors flying. Many have waited for the opportunity to express their opinions and concerns to some of these elusive figureheads, and now just may be the perfect time to meet and to learn should they arrive.

The already busy streets of Newhope alight like their signature arcane lanterns and become bustling and busier once more as travelers, merchants, ambassadors, and the plain curious arrive to the city. One thing is certain; many eyes are watching to see who arrives and what could come from this year’s Political Dinner.

==Event Summary==

The City-State of Newhope is alight with intrigue after the dramatic events at the Political Dinner. The evening began with Lictor Mary cul Tricuspus introducing the major representatives. Newhope’s representation included the Lictor Herself, and a Knight under Duchess Madeline D’Argent. Ulven clan representation included leadership from Clan Nightriver, Goldenfield, Stormjarl, and, taking the room by surprise, Pack Redwind. Clan Axehound and Whiteoak’s chosen representative being of Pack Redwind came as an unexpected, but very welcome surprise for those who were hoping to communicate with one or both clans. Clan Spiritclaw had sent representation, but the Jarl had fallen ill upon arrival to Newhope. The Knight sent by Duchess D’Argent accepted messages for him in his absence. 

Duke Joakim Ventrini’s late arrival created quite the buzz, with his announcement of a “Great Hall for Great Artists” and his generous offers to pay, board, and supply those artists with everything they need to do their craft– all in interest of his future retirement party. Very quickly, the room was filled with the sounds of bards showing off their skill, vying for a chance at playing for the Duke in his great estate. Ventrini’s little black book was soon full of names, all those within it promised to be contacted for further performances in the coming months. 

Conversation flowed all across the room for the entirety of the Dinner. Each representative was certainly kept busy all day, between wanting to know more about each groups movements in the war, hopes for more involvement in war planning, and the desire to be involved in whatever decisions would be made that day. A few individuals managed quite the conversation with the representatives of Nightriver, Goldenfield, and Newhope– a proposition for Mardrun that the group decided to share with the attendees. Should all parties agree after the representatives return to their leadership, Stormjarl and Aylin’s Reach would form a neutral defense pact in order to free Prince Aylin’s martial forces to push into Clan Goldenfield, which would also put Nightriver and Newhope into the advantageous positions to redouble their efforts on the Stormjarl/Yurnai warfront they have already dug their heels into. This presents a hopeful solution to the ever-looming worry about the future of supplies and food to the allied forces of Mardrun.

Towards the end of the Dinner, an incredible moment of drama unfolded, leaving the artists and performers previously thought to have been offered great opportunities to ply their talents with uneasy minds. The arrest of Duke Joakim Ventrini on the charges of Embezzlement, Entrapment, Conspiracy to Commit Murder, Kidnapping, Unlawful Imprisonment, and Treason, with the support of Prince Aylin and 4 of the 5 remaining Council members, left the Dinner attendees in a state of shock. With the room very suddenly cleared of all Newhope officials escorting the Duke out and likely to his prison for the foreseeable future, the dinner was officially over.

Between proclamations, title-honoring, and war-planning, anyone would be hard pressed to find a bored soul in that room.

== Event Story ==

The chill of winter has well and truly settled across Mardrun. Short days and long nights have brought many areas on the war fronts to slow crawls, while the crushing weight of Clan Stonetooth feels like they have been minimally slowed after capturing so much of Clan Goldenfield’s food stores and burning their homes. After finding Grimward’s ‘great army’ in The Pass to be a ruse, Clan Nightriver now begins moving reinforcements to immediately aid Clan Goldenfield, but are at great risk of straining their already limited winter supply. Far to the south, news passes of Grimward’s great raider fleet having made a push for the Yurnai river, colliding head on with the combined naval forces of Newhope, Nightriver, and Stormjarl. Rumors come that neither side truly came out ahead, but Grimward did not reach the mouth of the river to attack the bridge. Clan Grimward has lost territory on the river and Stormjarl borders, but few would believe they have lost the war as the fighting seems to have stalled for both sides with winter arriving in full last month.

News of heightened but expected Mordok activity at Clan Whiteoak’s Shield of Mardrun outposts has spread, along with a call for help from the clan which is not expected. The Mordok threat may typically be no problem for a formidable Clan like Whiteoak who has fought them for generations, but a dangerous threat within their own walls has their leadership on edge– The Nightmare Plague has returned, this time in Pack Briarthorn and their outpost on The Shield. While Whiteoak scrambles warriors to ward off the Mordok, healers to quarantine and heal the sick, and sending supply runners to both places, fears are rising that the Plague could spread through the clan, rapidly depleting their winter supplies and taking more warriors off The Shield, where many have already fallen ill.

After hearing of the successful treatment of the Nightmare Plague in Clan Nightriver, Clan Whiteoak has decided to call for aid. Thanks to the clan’s neutrality, any brave healers– but especially those with knowledge of The Nightmare Plague– any warriors who can cut down the Mordok, any tradespeople to move or make supplies– all are called to aid the effort to save the Ulven of Pack Briarthorn before Mordok find and exploit their weakness, or worse, the plague takes them. Time is not on Whiteoak’s side, as the plague can be quick to spread and each night brings new dead.

= Post Event Summary =

The start of the day started like any other day with the Nightmare plague in Pack Briarthorn, more dead to bring out to burn after a patrol brought some in which appeared to have passed away a few days ago. However, the dreadfully normal chore turned deadly as the dead began to move and attack the healers in the quarantine area.  Thanks to the quick actions of the volunteers, they were laid back to rest, but the damage was done and there were those that needed healing from two different types of plague. The bites were quickly healed and cleansed before they could become lethal, and those once hurt were able to assist once more.

With ingredients scarce for cures in the immediate area, some patrols were sent out to gather reagents and keep the Mordok from attacking the outpost while the healers were working. Frequently the Mordok would attack the patrols which would lure undead into the middle of the patrols, and then attack in the chaos. However, skill, determination and pure grit of the volunteers would overcome these obstacles, and the teams were able to successfully gather enough reagents to help supply the healers and stop the Mordok from endangering the outpost full of the sick people of Clan Whiteoak. This came at a cost though, as many patrols returned with wounds, broken gear, and bear traps attached to their legs.

While the chaos was going on with Patrols, many worked in the quarantine area. Tensions were high with the arrival of Clans Stonetooth and Grimward, but a greater enemy and neutral clan brought opposing sides in the war together. A “Hearthsworn” from Clan Stonetooth worked with those from enemy forces, without open hostility, to achieve the goal of healing and curing the Nightmare Plague as fast as possible. Alchemists from all walks of life worked in tandem to make potions upon potions to keep the healers supplied with what they needed. Bard’s worked hard to keep up spirits and energy for those working in such a grim environment. Tavern keeps and blacksmiths worked to keep the patrols geared, fed, and invigorated to continue their forays into the dangerous dirge to continue their harvesting.

As the bitterly cold day dragged on, auras that protected against the plague were eventually placed on all volunteers assisting Pack Briarthorn. The fear of the plague, while weighing on everyone’s minds, did not deter them but rather embolden their actions to work harder and more efficiently. By the end of the day, the majority of Pack Briarthorn’s outpost was cured of the plague, and the honorable Chieftain of the pack who was delaying any treatment till others were cured, finally acquiesced to being treated. The plague spread has been slowed and should now start to fade with the coming spring.

== Event Story ==

Winter is officially well underway as snow piles in across Mardrun. Work crews across the continent grind to a halt as the first storm of the season buries their efforts before the job is done. Even after the storms have passed, the effort to clear snow to make space for more work is time consuming, making every step of the process drag on. Winter challenges all, and the war efforts noticeably slow across all the allied fronts.

One area pushing on regardless of the weather is Starkhaven. With the push across the Yurnai River, engineers and construction crews are working hard to undo damage and continue building the highly anticipated and hard-earned bridge. Within the March, the normally quiet town of Rotherham has become a flurry of activity. Workers, engineers, merchants, and other tradespeople have flooded the area on their way to support Newhope’s Yurnai offensive. The excitement of this huge offensive effort has hopes high, and raised spirits all around. The small town has been a major spot in the path towards the Yurnai river, seeing all kinds of travelers come through to share their expertise, lend a hand, or simply share a meal. 

Contracts are abundant here in many ways that will aid the war effort for those with and without trades to ply, and all travelers moving through can find a fire to warm up near until they’re ready to face the frigid snow once again.

== Event Summary ==

Travelers from all walks of life arrive in Rotherham, only to quickly pile into the local tavern, The Bent Page, to escape the brutal cold and wind. Despite the indoor retreat, plenty of space was available for the activities of the day and generous food brought by its owners and patrons. Drinks were had, laughter shared, and most importantly no one became frozen solid.

Early in the day, a toast was made to those who had fallen in defense of the bridge during The Battle of Blooded Shores. The Gallant Feathers of the Phoenix and the Bran Teulu of The Ravens, among units of Newhope and their allies. Many units fought to the last and while their blood spilled to the ground, their names will not be forgotten.

Through the rest of the day sounds of various contract work, gambling, and music mixed with the conversations as friends and strangers socialized while more people arrived from both close and far places of Mardrun. Rumors were abuzz, stories were told, and there was even a small meeting around a Mardrun map discussing news of the war and planning for the difficult months and battles to come. 

In the end, the travelers were warm, silver was made, and stomachs were filled, which most would surely call a victory on its own. The war is expected to slow down as more difficult weather is surely to come, but that won’t stop other troubles from potentially emerging. While some rumors of the day were likely false, others will prove to be true…

=Event Story=

Scenario #1: The Battle of the Yurnai

The City-State of Newhope’s armies march west to the Yurnai River. Their fleet sails the coast, with modified ferry ships moving up river while a combat flotilla makes anchor at the mouth of the river to guard against Grimward’s sea raiders. Many wondered what Newhope had been working towards, and allies begin to scramble to take part with Newhope in their attack plans as the blood of Grimward warriors on Grimward land has been a rarity in this war, but soon arriving days will change that. 

While the complex parts of the plan have been left to the strategists and engineers, the basics of the plan quickly reach the ears of their allies. With their group of ferry ships, Newhope will move vanguard and gladiator units across the river along with any aiding allies who understand the risk. The goal being to create a defensive pocket on the other side the river, warriors and soldiers that will have to hold while the modified ferry ships will be rapidly converted into supports for the bridge. With Newhope’s plan and the sacrifice of the ferry ships, the bridge is expected to be built faster than would normally be required, after which the full might of Newhope and their allies armies can march across along with a reliable route for supplies to create a new sustained warfront into Grimward. It’s unclear if the plan is to build a land path to Clan Stormjarl or make a dangerous push towards the heart of Grimward, but strategists expect the pressure to be taken off of Clan Stormjarl as Grimward is forced to move warpacks to this new front on their doorstep. Either way, planning further ahead is found to be difficult with many unknowns that will factor into this critical mission.

The banners of the Newhope don’t stand alone though, as their armies march through Starkhaven and are seen mixed with the banners of their vassals, even including New Vandregon.

Newhope’s long hardkept secret plan is in motion, their invasion of Grimward proper begins now. If met with failure though, Newhope and allied forces could find themselves trapped across the river, and Clan Stormjarl’s homeland may be set to fall as Grimward’s larger army slowly tears them apart piece by piece.

Scenario #2: The Battle for Goldenfield

As morale collapses in the northern-most frontline now called Hammerfall, Clan Goldenfield has found itself in the sight of Clan Stonetooth’s brutal offensive. While bringing forth their own experienced warpacks since Spring, Clan Goldenfield’s people are made famous by their farming skills and not their might in war. This has been found to be worsened by many of their veteran units having been formed from fighting on The Shield and to protect the clan from mordok. While few could deny the endurance and hardiness given to their warriors from working crop fields harder than any other ulven, the clan does not find itself ready to stand alone against the elite Stonetooth warpacks who only have known warfare and advance quicker than Clan Goldenfield lines can reform from their initial retreat. 

Clan Ironmound’s banners are found not far behind Stonetooth, although reports indicate that while the two clans are fighting on the same front, they do not seem to be fighting together. The majority of Clan Ironmound units were spotted setting up defensive positions around the Shieldhaven settlement and the Bladehome pocket and against Clan Nightriver’s northern army as they reform, but reports still indicate that some of their warpacks follow close behind Clan Stonetooth in their advance to Clan Goldenfield.

Clan Goldenfield cannot protect itself while also ensuring the harvest. Their longtime ally of Clan Nightriver has found itself strung wide across three fronts of the war and distressingly unable to save its longtime ally yet, but a mix of other allies rush to the aid of Clan Goldenfield in the great clan’s place. If met with failure though, Clan Goldenfield’s may be crippled and its winter-critical harvest turned to ashes or forfeited, which could spell great difficulty for Clan Nightriver and other potential allies who rely on this harvest to bolster their war efforts. Winter is creeping along the horizon.

=Event Summary=

Scenario #1: The Battle of the Yurnai

No plan survives contact with the enemy, except when that plan includes overwhelming support. The City-State of Newhope’s call for aid in their surprise invasion of Clan Grimward is met with reinforcements, supplies, and piles of silver from all across their allies and those who oppose Grimward. The initial vanguard and allied units found themselves in brief but intense conflict as they crossed the river with the modified ferry ships, fishing vessels, and rafts, opening the initial landing grounds for additional troops and support to cross before the ships were moved to begin the bridge construction.

As the reinforcing coalition of forces pushed to make a pocket of controlled land on Grimward’s side of the river, they found themselves encountering resistance from only patrols and small guard groups of warriors, many of which did not even realize they were being invaded until they became surrounded and cut down. Soon after though, stronger patrols and attack groups were sent out as the nearby stationed Grimward warpack gained awareness of the situation and began mobilizing. The coalition was slow to get organized in their offensive, but eventually marched out to meet these groups before they could become a hazard to rear units or even the engineers working on the bridge.

The blood of both sides spilt the ground as the two forces clashed up and down the nearby road and outside the Grimward outpost. While warriors and leaders bravely risked their lives for the cause, several brutal fights proved to be the taker of life for both sides when retreats would cause the wounded to be abandoned. Calling reinforcements at the right time proved critical for the coalition’s offensive momentum as they carefully gauged their ability to advance, but hindsight can only speculate if more could have been done or if the loss of life would have been too costly. In the end, the local Grimward warpack was not bled enough for their outpost to be taken, but the rear units and engineers were safely protected as Grimward’s warpack was battered enough to not be able to pressure the coalition’s camp directly. As long as there are no interruptions, engineers expect to have the bridge completed by the end of November thanks to the over-abundance of supplies that allies have sent. The Yurnai Pocket has been successfully formed to protect the developing bridge, now the taken ground must be held.

Reports from Clan Stormjarl early in the month tell of Clan Grimward’s continued advance through their territory and that Stormjarl has lost half of its homeland by this point, but now Grimward’s conquest has been reported to have abruptly come to a halt as portions of Clan Grimward’s frontline appear to have been routed elsewhere. The initial benefits of the Yurnai offensive have already begun to be seen for the wilting clan.

Clan Grimward may have suffered at the combined efforts of Newhope and various allies around the Yurnai River this month, but is far from beaten. Rumors from nervous scouts speak of the ground rumbling and the wind roaring with horns, an army is approaching.

Scenario #2: The Battle for Goldenfield

Clan Goldenfield finds itself on the retreat without a strong response from allies as Clan Stonetooth invades their lands. Hope is found not in kingdoms, clans, or organized forces, but instead in the individuals who arrive just in time to help local Goldenfield forces. As Stonetooth’s marauders moved with their thralls to pillage the local fields behind the frontlines, the motley group of outsiders and Goldenfield needed to set up camp in a dangerous but necessary position to combat the raider. 

Skirmishes consistently broke out as Goldenfield and its allies had to battle, drive off, and slay the invaders. Groups of thralls from Clan Shattered Spear were seen being used as laborers, only to be forced into combat by individual Stonetooth found to be called “Thrall Watchers”; lest their families be killed back home if they show defiance to their conquerors. Warriors, tradespeople, and villagers; all forced to work and die for Stonetooth. Rumors pass that a couple Thrall Watchers were killed by Goldenfield and its allies as means to free the thralls, but this likely has come at the cost of their families being slain back home.

Clan Ironmound’s warpacks were reported in the area and their warriors sometimes seen fighting with Stonetooth, but what was not expected was the arrival of an Ironmound warrior who announced a missive from Clan Ironmound’s Warleader. On the leader’s behalf, the warrior spoke of Clan Goldenfield’s past honors and kinship to Clan Ironmound before the war, and stated that Clan Ironmound will return the kindness by offering honor duels rather than the slaughter. Through the afternoon, chosen Clan Ironmound warriors arrived at the makeshift camp, and each time a challenger bravely stepped forward on Goldenfield’s behalf. With each Goldenfield victory, Ironmound’s warpacks would halt their advance for a couple days; but with each loss, Goldenfield would have to tribute a cart of supplies to Ironmound’s forces.

These duels were non-lethal and fought with honor, with Goldenfield’s ally claiming the first victory. But later, during the second duel, the fervor of clashing steel only reached its peak when the duel was ended by a Stonetooth marauder who cared not for honor, only slaying of the weak. To the shock of both sides, the Ironmond warriors yelled with rage as they turned on their Stonetooth allies and joined Goldenfield in slaying the dishonorable warriors. The unforeseen cooperation was temporary though, as Ironmound’s warriors warned that they would return to being enemies of Goldenfield next they meet.

In the aftermath, the dishonored duel was declared by Ironmound to be a draw despite their warrior having been declared the winner before the interruption occurred. As the sun was setting behind the deep cloud layer, Goldenfield’s champion brought them a second and final duel victory. Sparks of hope in a bleak situation, until they were drowned in the tide as a thrall, knowingly sacrificing the life of herself and her family, came sprinting to camp to warn of the collapse of Goldenfield’s frontline. A desperate and dangerous retreat was made as Stonetooth’s full armies came charging down the road, but no further life was lost thanks to the thrall’s sacrifice.

Clan Goldenfield’s situation has continued to worsen along their whole frontline as they lose swaths of territory with each week, but thanks to the actions of the individuals who came to their aid much of the critical winter harvest was successfully harvested despite Clan Stonetooth managing to steal portions to fuel their ever-advancing army. With victories in the honor duels, news arrives from many contested areas that Clan Goldenfield’s families and communities were able to safely retreat due to the honorable halting of Clan Ironmound’s warpacks for even just a few days. A difference has been made, but Clan Goldenfield’s fall remains looming on the horizon. The cost of war.

=Event Story=

The summer months of Mardrun normally mean bustling cities, well-traveled roads, and festivities everywhere you turn, but between the oppressive heat that has settled over Mardrun and the war, many are at a standstill. The Pass remains a point of contention with both sides slowed by the heat, Clan Stormjarl continues to fight their hardest fights on the coast, and Hammerfall holds steady. While the rest of the continent might be content to wait out the heat and sun by holding up in the shadows, Clan Shattered Spear has no such luxuries. After the Moot where a new Acting Clanleader was appointed, then the Market Faire where the new Clanleader’s plans were announced, the Clan is working tirelessly to gather all able-bodied fighters and ready them for re-entry into the war. 

Training grounds have come together within Clan Nightriver’s territory to bring instructors and fresh soldiers together as efficiently as possible, and Acting Clanleader Sigurmon Shattered Spear has made the announcement far and wide: anyone with skills to share should not let their hands go idle. The training grounds are open for those who need training and those who can give it, especially those who plan to fight alongside Shattered Spear in the coming months.

While it’s expected the training grounds will be busy with warriors honing their skill, rumor has spread of a “Hunter’s Challenge” also taking place in the area. Cryptic notes were discovered, leaving many curious about what the meaning is, and what it could be leading to. 

Whether you come to test your wits, train your might, or lead your class, Clan Shattered Spear will be gearing up for war, and this time, they’ll be ready.

=Event Summary=

The people of Clan Shattered Spear, inspired by their new leadership and a fire to retake their homeland, found themselves arriving at the training camp and grounds unsure of what to expect. Despite their warrior focused culture and a majority of their people being trained how to fight even before the war started, many who arrived did not understand how to fight as a group and fill their role on the frontline. With a large number of their veterans either gone after fighting against the mordok invasion years ago, Stonetooth and Grimward’s war, or recovering in the eastern clans, new warpacks are formed of the militias from earlier in the war and the tradespeople who fled east when their land was lost. 

A mix of experienced military leaders stood awaiting them, prepared with equipment to make warriors and leaders from those who arrived. Positioning, line roles, self-delegating leaders, and many other lessons were taught before practice battles were had. A rare occasion in war, as the sound of clashing blades was not paired with spilt blood and bodies requiring pyres. Mock battles gave experience to those who had not met the enemy yet, and showed that meeting an enemy it will never go smoothly or to plan.

As the high heat began to slowly fade with the setting sun, treasure hunters took to the woods as warriors rested and dueled back in camp. The treasure was found quickly by the skilled adventurers, but the situation became muddled by a rival group who arrived also seeking the treasure. Burning tensions were cooled without violence, but more importantly by a share of hacksilver. As the training day came to a close, Clan Shattered Spear found itself standing with several new warpacks and warrior leaders to guide them in combat.

Acting Clanleader Sigurmon Shattered Spear sends thanks to all who provided aid in the first steps of retaking their homelands, especially to the trainers who returned the offered silver payment for their services. The new warpacks march west to reinforce Hammerfall, where rumors speak of crumbling morale as thralls are forced to be slain in vain and salts beasts stalk their food.

=Aylin’s Reach Market Faire=

Among the chaos and fog of war, political movements of Clan Shattered Spear, and notable morale drops across the continent, the time for the Market Faire could not come sooner. Aylin’s Reach is a buzz of activity as the Faire grows nearer, with merchants erecting stalls and travelers making their way into the heart of the city. The Prince promises revelry, drinks, and celebrations of every victory– for everyone. Come for a day packed with tournaments, camaraderie, and good times!

=Black Market Faire=

In the shadowy corners of Aylin’s Reach, sly hands are still working. Criminal movement in this area isn’t easy, but shady business dealings still manage to make their way through any tough area, especially in the busy chaos of war. In the cover of darkness, the Black Market Faire emerges again this year, ready for debauchery and reckless abandon, with or without the law. Some notable groups are expected to use this fair to their advantage, much to the intrigue of their business partners. 

Drinks will flow and silver will fly– be there to enjoy it!

=Market Faire Summary=

Great duels of steel and carpentry could be found with cheering crowds and spilled drinks as the Aylin’s Reach market faire was filled with people from most parts of the continent. Whether having arrived for the food and drink, trade, or to watch people hit each other with blunted steel, it was easy to find ways to escape from the war even if just for a day. The great unofficial official sport of chairs even found its return, with its general promise of creating more bards as only one carpenter stands victorious.

As various tournaments of combat and skill were hosted throughout the day, Prince Aylin himself joined the festivities and allowed for impromptu meetings with the public and far travelers, whether for business, requests, or casual discussion. Whispers on the side mention of tense moments of discussion, but luckily no one found themselves thrown out from Aylin’s Reach this day. Further rumors even mention of a packleader of Clan Spiritclaw being present, but remained unannounced and lesser known until the festivities had already ended. Aylin’s Syndar guests from the farthest north also traveled the faire grounds and opened discussions with travelers, seemingly fascinated by various acts and projects of magic, and the odd mixed cultures of the southern lands.

In the end, nothing could interrupt the cheer and merriment of all present; but as the sun set, various travelers soon found their way to the other side of the city outskirts, intent for a different form of entertainment.

=Black Market Faire Summary=

“Uhh yeah, someone gave me a lot of drinks so one second… I think someone got stabbed, I might have gotten stabbed… mmmmm nope I’m good. There was a guy who wouldn’t shut up about the stars… and I remember people kept talking about snakes but I never got to see one… aaaaand another guy might have got stabbed. Yeah I think that’s everything… what do you mean I was supposed to be on guard duty?”