Wiki Category: Events

= EVENT STORY =

Shieldhaven Market Faire (Day Scenario)

With the war now in its second month, the future is uncertain to many all across the continent. The need for coin and business, distractions from large scale problems, or just daily life remains despite the large martial conflict. After petitioning and receiving the backing of the City-State Council, the Guardians of the Wall home settlement of Shieldhaven has been chosen for this year’s annual market faire event. With no public contest from Aldorian nobility and Prince Aylin himself, the plans for the market faire begin in earnest. While this is a great chance for travelers and merchants to ease their mind of wartime worries, there is a growing concern over the chosen location being so close the rear-line and supply line efforts of the Clan Shattered Spear warfront. Never one to miss an opportunity, City-State planners have noted that this is a perfect way to drum up support for wartime efforts; to be close enough to see prominent figures organizing and working to directly support these nearby efforts. Especially after the concern over the recent Moot, security has been bolstered this month with several City-State of Newhope army platoons. Regardless of concerns, there is coin, and politicking, to be made.

New Aldoria Black Market Faire (Night Scenario)

While many aim to journey to the northern parts of Mardrun, whispers discuss other plans to the south. While the warriors, guards, and armies of clans and cities stand alert for Grimward’s forces, the opportunity has arisen for less-reputable internal groups to make their own movements. While there is no official “market” location to be reliably found, these groups gather randomly to create places for unusual trade and handling disagreements, and then dissipate just as fast when needed. Travelers who seek these forms of business ventures need only find the right people to experience a dangerous yet enticing experience, and this time those who seek it out find a notable gathering to be occurring at New Aldoria’s outer docks where the eyes of local guards are less present or perhaps paid to look the other way.

Coin, and corpses, can be made. Do you choose to venture closer?

= Event Summary =

Shieldhaven Market Faire:

People from most parts of Mardrun arrived at Shieldhaven to find a plethora of drinks, delicious foods, and a welcoming host awaiting them, both from the hosts and various merchants throughout the marketplace. Attending travelers were able to feel safe in their journeys to and from the faire thanks to the combined protective efforts of the Guardians of the Wall and the City-State of Newhope. The many contests, challenges, and chances for merriment were quick to raise any lowered spirits, proving to be an opportunity to escape the war even if only for a short time.
The day started and ended in more somber yet hopeful moods though. Some speak of a small impromptu war council that occurred involving various leaders and members of different associations; while others speak of a reclament funeral service that took place, standing as a reminder that loved ones will be lost to the war, but our memories of them can never be taken.

New Aldoria Black Market Faire:

“Why do you want to know about the Black Market? WHO SENT YOU?! Stop worrying about what happened and instead worry about what’s gonna happen to you if you keep asking!”

= EVENT STORY =

The eyes of the continent remain on Clan Shattered Spear as Clans Grimward and Stonetooth continue their advance. Having been given time to organize their warpacks, they now are better able to meet the invaders on the battlefield. However, their supply lines and logistics behind the frontline remains critical even with the arrival of the supplies from Clan Ironmound that were honorably promised during the Moot. Indications show that the Clan has had to abandon hopes in rebuilding their homes and towns in the north from their prior conflict with the Mordok to instead keep their warriors fed and supplied with unbroken equipment for this war. Clan Grimward, bolstered by Clan Stonetooth, continues to field an overwhelming army and drive hard against Clan Shattered Spear, forcing their warpacks to fill their ranks with trained militia. Farmers stand beside veteran warriors in an attempt to defend their ancestral lands.

Clan Shattered Spear continues their requests for aid, both on the frontline taking place among the various defensive positions opposing the conquering forces and in supply line and logistical support. This month they primarily require help with their critical supply situation, and the Clan is seeking assistance in many aspects like harvesting materials, training militia and support, gathering healing reagents, protecting supplies from small groups of Grimward raiders, and many other rear line logistics and duties of the war effort.

= EVENT SUMMARY =

Clan Shattered Spear’s allies show up in great numbers to aid the clan, but nothing proves to be as impactful as the brutal weather that sweeps across the landscape. With Clan Griwmards’ advance temporarily halted, the storms prove to be Shattered Spear’s greatest ally, but also their greatest enemy as their own logistic efforts are greatly hindered. Despite the storms, Clan Shattered Spear’s allies prove their determination to help, or hatred for Clans Grimward and Stonetooth. 

In the cover of village taverns, locals are trained in healing and first aid, while the endless ringing of overfilled smithies and forges keeps away anyone who wishes to keep their hearing intact. Whenever breaks can be found in the blinding rainfall and tree-rupturing lightning, laborers hurry to the local woods and ore patches, while warriors continue their patrols on the main logistical roads. 

Larger raiding groups are driven away by the focused effort by warriors and soldiers, which are quickly followed by teams of experienced workers and laborers who work to improve the main road conditions, allowing supplies to reach their destinations despite the endless muddy pits and ongoing weather. These combined efforts make a notable difference in ensuring supplies aren’t lost, stolen, or destroyed as they reach the frontlines, but as the supply carts return to the rearlines they find damage to the upkeep and repairs that were done. Reports are soon received that small groups of raiders have been following distantly behind the convoys to cause damage to the roads, since other targets were too well guarded. This caused notable delays in further supplies reaching their needed targets, when the weather was permitting.

Only time will truly tell, but Clan Shattered Spear reports that their critical supply situation has been alleviated for now. With the addition of the storms the clan has bought time in continuing their fight against the southern invaders, although their future still remains rocky and uncertain. Nevertheless, the people of Shattered Spear make sure to thank the people from Mardrun’s many cultures, clans, and groups for their continued blood and sweat. While darkness still looms on the horizon, a darker fate would befall the clan if not for those who willingly risk their lives.

= EVENT STORY =

After ambushing the representatives at the most recent Moot, an act denounced unanimously by all of the Clans, Clan Grimward and their new Clan Stonetooth ally put their plan of conquest into motion and begin to spread like a fire toward their neighboring clans. Clan Grimward troops take a majority of The Pass through the Great Wolf’s Hackles mountains and deny this route of travel to everyone. Warpacks bearing the heraldry of both Grimward and Stonetooth are seen in the south-west, patrolling the Yurnai River and testing colonist defenses. Warpacks of both Clans push north into Clan Shattered Spear territory, forming a massive invasion force. Based on rumors from the Moot and the lack of their banners on the battlefield, Clan Ironmound has yet to take action or make a declaration of their status in this war. Word takes time to reach the various Clans and Colonies who are caught completely off-guard by this sudden aggression, leaving many clambering to comprehend the conflict that has been thrust upon the continent. War has returned to Mardrun; the Conquering has begun.

Clan Stormjarl

Scenario #1 (Saturday)

Almost 5 years ago, Clan Stormjarl and Clan Grimward signed their own seperate treaty to end the fighting that lingered between the Clans, despite the Ulven Civil War having ended years prior. The conquered lands of Stormjarl became known as Haygreth’s Scar, a constant reminder to the Clan of the cost of the conflict. In this time, the people of Clan Stormjarl have not forgotten the hostiltiy between their Clans and has not let their guard down. Effort was given to grow the martial abilities of many warriors; the training of elite sailors known as Viknar more present than before. The expansion of the Clan’s holdings through the Stormborn coast and former Clan Squalborn lands allowed many families to resettle after being displaced by the civil war. A campaign of bolstering defenses and training warriors on the Stormjarl-Grimward border was a vigilant promise to be ready if war broke out again. Half a decade after the fighting stopped, war has returned to Stormjarl lands. Despite the preparation, martial training, and defensive outposts the fact remains that Clan Stormjarl is still considerably smaller than Clan Grimward and their isolation caused news of the war to reach them slower than most. This difference being made greater given that Clan Grimward has a new ally. As chaos unfolds at the recent Moot, Grimward warpacks had already begun to test the defenses along Haygreth’s scar and had setup patrols to make anyone crossing the Yurnai River to reach Stormjarl lands by foot very dangerous. What is most concerning is the fleet of ships that have sailed down the coastline, raiding and hitting harbors, their obvious target being the Clan’s potent ships and coastal sailing capabilities. As defenders are sent to coastal settlements to defend and repel these raiders, notable damage has already been caused to Stormjarl’s ships and docks. A call for aid has been sent to any who will help Clan Stormjarl, with ships ready to ferry over willing reinforcements.

In this scenario, Clan Stormjarl warriors and their allies will fight to hold and defend a coastal settlement, their efforts crucial to the success of maintaining the Clan’s seafaring capabilities which are both a potent martial counter and critical sailing route for allies and supplies. The success, or failure, of this scenario will significantly influence the southern front of the war and Clan Stormjarl’s standing.

Clan Shattered Spear

Scenario #2 (Sunday)

After taxing their supplies and martial abilities last year in a long campaign against the Mordok and the maddening corruption, Clan Shattered Spear finds themselves the target of the combined assault of both Clan Grimward and Clan Stonetooth. The shock of the announcement of war at the recent Moot still grips the continent, but Shattered Spear leaders shake it off quickly when the banners of conquering warpacks cross into their territory and the smoke of razed border settlements become visible in the distance. This initial push is met with little resistance; with the border settlements being rapidly burned through by the overwhelming invasion army. Without immediate and overwhelming support there is almost no way for the Clan to quickly organize against this threat. Despite their best efforts and the considerable martial abilities of Shattered Spear warriors, the people of Shattered Spear are being pushed back or defeated time and time again at numerous engagements due to the clan’s crippled state. Warriors are slain and many are taken prisoner, with it being unclear if the invader’s goal to be the subjugation or elimination of the people of Clan Shattered Spear. The Warleader of the Clan has called forth warpacks to be deployed to areas to help evacuate settlements and buy time for forces to regroup for an upcoming counter-attack. These warriors will do what they can to stall the invading forces and provide an organized retreat against an overwhelming enemy. The harder they fight and the longer they hold, the more settlements that can be safely evacuated which will directly impact Clan Shattered Spear’s ability to recover from this crippling blow. Despite the clan’s warrior spirit and known martial prowess, a desperate call for aid has been sent to any who will help Clan Shattered Spear.

In this scenario, Clan Shattered Spear warriors and their allies will fight and stall incoming Clan Grimward and Clan Stonetooth invaders, their efforts crucial in the success of nearby evacuations for the Clan. The success, or failure, of this scenario will significantly influence the northern front of the war and Clan Shattered Spear’s standing.

= EVENT SUMMARY =

Blood covers the earth and fills tides as war covers Mardrun and flames cover the landscape. Villages burn and battlefields lay askew with steel and broken flesh as Grimward and Stonetooth banners march across the land, both north into Clan Shattered Spear and along the coast against Clan Stormjarl. Both these two clans started the war on the backfoot and recoiled to respond to the rapid and prepared attacks from their enemy, but allies came to their aid to help them stand. 

Clan Stormjarl: 

The surprise raids against the seaborn clan cause notable damage before reinforcements can arrive from other lands, but after landing on Stormjarl shores these allies are quick to push back against Grimward and Stonetooth on the main roads. The raiders are forced to combat these arrived forces to continue their raid in neighboring areas, but the defenders soon find themselves struggling to continue pulling the raider’s attention as more Grimward ships arrive. Faced with a decision, the local leadership decides to focus on saving the lives of their warriors while slaying more of Grimward’s larger army, instead of taking the risk to focus on stopping their raiding. The refocus of their efforts paid off well, as the local forces and their allies fought defensively and protected each other’s lives. As night falls and the remaining raiders back off, the price of this choice came crying for help at the entrance of camp. The few surviving ulven of a neighboring village stumbled through the dark; bleeding, wounded, and sobbing of their burning home. Clan Stormjarl slew greatly more warriors than they lost that day, but were unable to stop Grimward from their goal. As fires cover the clan’s coastline through the night, the morning brings Stormjarl bodies floating on the tide and their ships shattered. Clan Stormjarl stands firmly in their homeland, but their ability to fight Grimward on the sea or counter with their own raids has been severely crippled.

Clan Shattered Spear:

Rain and mud sweeps west across Clan Shattered Spear’s lands while Grimward and Stonetooth forces sweep from the south. The mud turns crimson as the outnumbered Shattered Spear forces attempt to hold the line and buy time for rearline warpacks to be formed to better fight the invaders in the following months. As the clans clash Shattered Spear quickly finds it’s lines overwhelmed and cracking, but with the critical assistance of their allies the clan was able to withstand for long enough for villages to be evacuated and lives to be saved; but they can only hold for so long as they are pushed closer and closer to their own support camp and as blacksmith and healer supplies run out. Eventually the camp itself becomes under attack and their remaining reinforcements had to be routed to a different battlefield, causing Jarl Iros the Northtaker to make a last stand with his last warriors. Making Grimward pay with blood, Jarl Iros was slain during a ferocious fight as he bought time for the clan’s allies to escape with their lives. Time for Clan Shattered Spear was paid for with blood and steel, but these coming months will determine if the clan can hold out or if their succumbing fate arrives.

In the east, the cries of the loss have turned into promises of revenge. Clan Nightriver has awoken.

= EVENT STORY =
Words spreads of Pack Longfang and their ally’s victory in a great battle against an unusual mordok force, which was soon after celebrated with a feast. As reports of Mordok activity along the Shield of Mardrun dwindle down, it seems like the recent attacks and raids along the northern border have returned to an uneasy quiet. Many are welcoming both the new spring and the reprieve from Mordok attacks equally.

What is not quiet is the tension among Ulven Clans to the south. With many travelers and remote settlements continuing to be fearful of raiders, it has led the rumor mill to begin to spin larger tales and point fingers of implication. Some say the raiders are sent by Clan Grimward to continue their previous aggression. Others claim the raiders are Clan Stormjarl trying to frame the acts on Clan Grimward. Others claim the raiders are unorganized gangs or clanless glory-starved warriors looking for word-fame. And yet others claim the raiders are from the Colonies in an attempt to show the Clans as weak and unable to protect their borders. 

In an effort to bring the Ulven people together, several Clanleaders have suggested a Moot to discuss this particular issue along with several other pressing topics. A gathering such as this hasn’t happened in quite some time; many are looking forward to the opportunity to have focused discussions and settle issues or see how the different Clans can co-exist in years to come. Clan Ironmound has put forth the use of one of their border settlements near The Pass through the Great Wolf’s Hackles, a common ground for many Clans to meet at. Clan Grimward has been the first to publicly agree to this proposed assembly, with Clan Nightriver following suite. In a rare stance among the Ulven, representatives from the Colonies are also allowed attendance at this event. Soon the entire continent is buzzing with rumors and gossip about this upcoming political affair and how the outcome of the day could shape the future of Mardrun.

= EVENT SUMMARY =
As travelers gathered for the Ulven Moot, the heightened security around the settlement caused some tension among people who disagreed with its enforcement. Clan Ironmound’s appointed leader of the event was stern yet willing to compromise, smoothing over a few gruff visitors among Clan Grimward.

After light social interactions, the assembly was called together to officially begin the Moot. With Clan Ironmoun’s rep leading the topics of discussion, the appointed Clan delegates took their turns weighing in on their involvement or their opinion of each. A common theme among several voices was the need for supplies to the north after the intense conflict with the Mordok not only along The Shield but in Clan Shattered Spear territory. Consideration was given by several representatives, mainly Clan Grimward and Clan Ironmound, willing to look into what they could do to send aid. The topic turned to a more sensitive one; the concern over the raiders who have targeted multiple places for quite some time now. An eyewitness claimed to have recently gone up against these raiders and then they were attacked by warriors carrying the Clan Grimward banner. Tensions spiked as what could be viewed as a “public accusation” was levied against Clan Grimward. In a surprising move, the Grimward representative agreed to investigate the raids and was willing to allow a council to review what was discovered. Many were taken aback at how agreeable the Grimward representative was, and that this topic did not escalate further.

A break was called for and those assembled continued their discussions off to the side as people made their rounds. A few Ulven delegates made a vocal fuss over some etiquette of some non-Ulven visitors. Besides a few awkward or bristled interactions, the Moot continued peacefully but several people asked where Branthur Nightriver was as he had not yet arrived at the Moot. One of the Grimward visitors had mentioned that “Haygreth was scheduled to make an appearance” as well, which took many by surprise as this was news to most.

The answer to both of those questions became clear when the Clan Grimward representative called forth for the Moot to assemble again. The feeling in the assembly was off this time as the representative read out loud a letter, a declaration, both from himself and from the Warleader of Clan Grimward, Khulgar Graytide. Three things were presented to those gathered.

The first shocked all at the assembly, as a crate was handed over where inside rested the decapitated head of Haygreth Grimward, Clanleader of Clan Grimward. His features were unmistakable despite the decay that had taken to the flesh from the long journey to the assembly. The Chain of Station around its rotting neck stump further proof of the Clanleader’s identity.

The second was a visitor with Clan Grimward who addressed the assembly. Adorned with trophies, including a scalp, this visitor proclaimed to all that she was the “Voice of the War-sworn” who had been sent to deliver a message. This strange visitor hailed from Clan Stonetooth, the lost Ulven Clan far to the north in the Outlands. The message was simple; Clan Stonetooth is coming for conquest.

And finally, the third was the entrance of well-armed Clan Grimward warriors and with them, a prisoner. It was then that the Clan Grimward representative announced a warning; the settlement was surrounded by Clan Grimward warriors and any who drew steel or tried to flee would be cut down. The appointed Clan Ironmound representative in charge of the Moot, genuinely taken by surprise at this turn of events, made note that the Clan Ironmound guards providing security to the settlement were now missing, somehow being replaced by Grimward’s martial forces. The prisoner was asked to state who he was to the assembly so there was no mistake with his identity.

Proudly stating his name, Branthur Nightriver, Clanleader of Clan Nightriver, spoke his last words as the Clan Grimward representative caved in his skull with a mace. Cries of shock rung out in the assembly as the mace hammered repeatedly, blood and gore making a ruin of the Clanleader’s head. The body was dragged away further into the settlement and the assembly was given a small window of time to make their choice; surrender or die. This was also when the Clan Grimward representative proclaimed to all that Khulgar Graytide had dismantled his position as Warleader of Clan Grimward and instead joined the ranks of the War-sworn, some sort of martial title among Clan Stonetooth.

When a note was discreetly delivered to the now trapped assembly, they learned that Branthur’s Warpack was moving to the settlement and would attack and signal horns. When they did, the group had to make a choice; surrender and live, break through and try to escape, or stall as long as they can to help the nearby Warpack and any other representatives that might be nearby. With the group lacking armor, shields, or support weapons due to the heightened security of the Moot, the group decided it was best to break through and try to escape.

Horns blared in the distance and the sound of a pitched battle caught the Grimward by surprise as a Nightriver Warpack in the area had caught wind of what happened. They acted with a suicidal charge to give the assembly a chance to break through the Grimward warriors and escape. Time against them, the group endured endless assault of well-armed and armored pursuers. Wounds began to mount, and the situation became dire but the organized retreat to safety stayed together. Although most of the assembly was able to escape back to nearby allied camps, several were wounded, killed, or captured by Grimward forces.

Branthur Nightriver’s personal warpack met the same fate as their Clanleader, giving their lives to buy time for many representatives to escape. Although many were slain, a good number were taken prisoner along with several important representatives from several Clans.

Word of Clan Grimward’s ambush at the Moot and proclaimed alliance with the long lost Clan Stonetooth reached many ears quickly at the same time that messenger hawks and hurried travelers began circulating news of events all over the continent. Travelers from Clan Grimward territory tell of many confused Packs and families at this sudden alliance within their Clan. Many wonder what part Clan Ironmound played in this and whether they will still send the aid they promised to Shattered Spear. Clan Grimward banners display in the settlements closest to The Pass through the hackles, shutting off all trade and travel through the mountain range. Hawks send word that multiple warpacks have moved into Clan Shattered Spear territory, quickly driving into their lands. And yet more hawks warn of both border skirmishes along Haygreth’s Scar and Clan Stormjarl coastal towns reporting raids against their ports and ships before the news of the Moot reached their people. In the span of a single day, two Ulven Clanleaders are dead and war has returned to Mardrun.

The Conquering has begun.

= EVENT STORY =

An unusual warmth blankets Mardrun, but that doesn’t mean that everyone has the luxury of relaxing in the sun. Along the Shield of Mardrun many outposts were damaged during the recent Mordok activity including Onsallas, home of Pack Longfang. Though the Mordok were not able to overwhelm the stalwart Warriors and Ulfhednar of Onsallas and their allies, they were able to damage the infrastructure of the outpost itself.

As the various Clans turn their attention toward addressing the needs of their own Shield Outposts, the Clanless Longfang are left to their own devices. They worked as best they could for the last few months, but after recent reports of Mordok sightings not too far north of The Shield, they’ve decided that it’s time to ask for aid from their allies in the south. Luckily the people of Mardrun do not easily forget the original defenders against The Dirge. Before long, aid in the way of labor crews and supplies begin the slow muddy trek toward Onsallas and more than a few warriors join them as well, hoping to be of use if the Mordok should choose to push an early spring offensive against the outpost.

= EVENT SUMMARY =

Despite the previously warm weather, a new brief winter fell across Mardrun as snow settled on the land and a biting cold took hold. The weather failed to deter the people south of the Shield though as they still showed up in great numbers to support Onsallas and its people of Pack Longfang. The outpost was filled with people from all places of Mardrun who quickly got to work assisting the Pack with its supply and outpost upkeep issues. Organizing this vast array of efforts proved to be a difficult task on its own, and only the Pack leadership and those stepping up to help could hope to keep it all together.

The first patrol was sent out to recover supplies that had been dropped off at the nearby abandoned village. As was expected and a normal day for the Longfang, the patrol found themselves harassed by skittish mordok who stalked them through the forest and occasionally attempted to contest the patrol. The mix of travelers and warriors within the patrol managed to hold their own and recover the supplies, but soon after they returned to the Onsallas outpost a new unexpected danger arrived in force.

‘Scouts’ returned from down the road in a panic, shouting warnings to the outpost. Movement could be seen in the trees. Shifting silhouettes stood out against the white snow. Roars of anger and war cries carry on the wind towards the outpost. A horde of mordok begin to step out from the treeline and tread up to the Outpost’s edge, taunting and challenging the outpost. The ulven of Onsallas and their allies were quick to form a defensive line, ready to push back the mordok as Onsallas had many times in the past, but were shocked to find a figure in black armor leading the mordok forces. The figure spoke the common tongue and the mordok followed their commands as if they were an alpha, but this figure was discernibly not a mordok. Negotiations were swift as the black armored figure shouted to the mordok to “Burn it down”, riling the mordok into a burning ferocity as they crashed into the wall of shields.

The defenders braced and took the onslaught head on. Armor was rended, arrows pierced flesh, and blood was spilt across the gateway as the defenders held the line. The fight seemed to be going favorably, until screams were heard from within the Onsallas outpost. The two ‘scouts’ who warned of the attack were seen striking the healer and an archer, causing chaos to erupt in the outpost as defenders scrambled to protect on both sides of the battle. Steps backward were taken as the frontline was disrupted, but the leaders of Onsallas held fast with their command over the defenders, invigorating them to drive the mordok back and restore their line. The scouts, soon discovered to be pirates, were captured before they could cause serious harm. During their capture they were tortured and interrogated, which is when it was learned that the mordok leader was Pirate Captain Mad Morty. Some thought he was dead while others thought he was lost to sea; no matter what people thought though, he was here leading an army of both mordok and pirates.

More pirates began to come forth and join the attack with the mordok forces outside of the outpost. Morty himself joined the fight to increase the pressure against Onsallas, but later safely retreated after his armor was broken. As quickly as they charged in, the mordok and pirate line broke and fell back as their leader left the fight, which allowed the defenders to charge forward to slay or drive away the remaining forces. But as they returned to their outpost, they found themselves in a difficult situation of two conflicts. The first being the mordok and pirate force which they were sure was only regrouping for a new attack, and the second being their own logistics to keep their forces in fighting shape. 

Shields were broken, armor torn, and flesh was wounded and broken. The defenders knew that if they were to survive future onslaughts they must deal with these, and many stepped up to put their hearts into their tradeskills. The Longfang Supply Warden wasted no time in organizing the blacksmiths together and providing as much support as possible for the single available professional healer.

The immense efforts proved quickly to be critically vital, as Morty’s army repeated the attack multiple times. Twice more his army came crashing into the defenders, the sound of cracking of bone and steel filled the air as time was lost to adrenaline. The mordok and pirates continued to attack the frontline, but the outpost held. A Pain Caller mordok Shaman threw powerful spells, healed mordok wounds, and fueled mordok with uncontainable rage and steered them towards the defenders like a great battering ram, but the strained outpost held. Morty continued to whip his force into a frenzy and drive them harder into the defenders, but then the Outpost cracks began to show.

The logistics were strained and shields began to run out, but the sounds of blacksmith hammers kept churning out repaired equipment straight to the frontline. Occasional mordok were slipping into the outpost, but the defenders kept organized and slew them before notable harm could be caused. Warriors fell on the frontline, but new ones quickly filled the gaps and the soft sound of music kept the healer focused and working quickly on the wounded. Every attack pushed the outpost to its limit, but the melting pot of different groups under the commanding Longfang leadership rose against each threat and were able to just barely hold against each tide of attackers.

During all of this, Onsallas being in such a defensive state meant that it could not stop other mordok from slipping south past their portion of the Shield. It was not all bad news though, as Onsallas managed to sneak out a couple of patrols outside its defenses to hold back roaming mordok away from the main battle, hopefully reducing how many were able to slip by.

In the final push, the Pain Caller Shaman induced Pirate Lord Morty with a corrupting rage. He charged forth with his forces and hit the Onsallas defenders with everything in his might, resisting death itself until his body was left beyond broken as the defenders held firm but wounded. As Morty was slain, the Shaman slipped back to the Dirge and the remaining mordok and pirate forces became in disarray. The defenders chased down and slayed many, even capturing several pirates who later were attempting to surrender out of fear of the mordok that they had been fighting alongside just previously.

Onsallas had already held against several smaller attacks over the winter which was normal, but this day was meant for recovery and Onsallas instead found itself taking a second bloody nose. The price of victory was high, as the defenders managed to keep the loss of life low but now Onsallas found itself logistically strained and will take a notable amount of time to fully recover this year. Messages had been sent to nearby southern villages and clans warning of the mordok breach that had occurred past the shield, but only time will show how much harm will be caused. The day was a victory, but a sour one.

Word spreads from Clan Shattered Spear. Their prolonged war effort against the Mordok is showing promising signs of coming to a final conclusion. Thanks to the strength of the Shattered Spear warriors as well as the unquestionable support from some of their trusted allies, the Mordok forces have been pushed back to where this all began: the village of Silfurfal, known to some in whispers and rumors as “The Maddened Village”

Reports have come in that the village has been bolstered and barricaded and that a large Mordok force has taken up residence inside along with the same villagers that have been plaguing the area. More alarming is that several reports have included mention of one of the mysterious blue-clad Mordok seemingly leading the forces within the village. This combined force has dug in deep and in response the Shattered Spear warpacks have surrounded the village and begun the process of setting siege.

As the camps come together Shattered Spear sends out a request for aid once more. From their request it’s clear that they feel this will be the final battle of this campaign and they seem almost excited to share this moment with the people of Mardrun as a whole. There is even promise of a great feast for any who come to help see this bloody chapter to its conclusion.

All this being said, it’s clear that aid will still go a long way in this endeavor. While Shattered Spear may be able to front the bulk of a siege force to bring Silfurfal to heel, any prolonged siege will in all likelihood spell the death for any Ulven still within the village as the Mordok inside would turn to devouring them long before they were able to be starved out. A large showing of force will allow Shattered Spear warriors to move north around the village and cut off any incoming Mordok reinforcements while a second overwhelming force presses into the village to remove the Mordok foothold once and for all.

People from around Mardrun flock to Shattered Spear lands, eager to see to the end of this most recent Mordok invasion and show once again that the people of Mardrun stand united against the Mordok onslaught. The banners of several Shattered Spear allies are already present in the various siege camps, no doubt personally invited by Shattered Spear leadership ahead of the public calls.

Soon the lands surrounding Silfurfal are filled with people from all walks of life, ready and willing to lay siege or support those who do.

-=Update=-

Under the banners of Shattered Spear and their allies, the warriors marched on Silfurfal. Though an early winter chill gripped the landscape the people found themselves stalwart in their task. Unfortunately the opposition was quick to meet them. A couple of skirmishes broke out on the road leading up to the village as the allied forces worked to push the Mordok and their corrupted villagers out of the way.

The battles were brief, but incredibly bloody. The allied forces suffered severe damage to their bodies and their equipment, but held firm and were able to rout, kill, or capture their enemies. A small handful of villagers and even an unfortunate corrupted Ulven trader that was caught in the area were able to be taken back to the camps to be cleansed and healed.

The second skirmish of the day saw the return of the Alpha that plagued the allied forces during their last push into the area some months back, but more alarming was the appearance of one of the strange, Blue-Clad Mordok. It appeared smaller than the other Mordok, but dressed in much finer clothing and showed a preference for deep, rich blues. Despite its smaller stature, the rest of the Mordok showed it an incredible amount of deference, often hunching even lower when it was nearby. The Blue-Clad Mordok and the Alpha pulled out of the fight early, seemingly satisfied with the damage and poisoning that they had caused. With this, the allied forces were able to push the Mordok and their corrupted Ulven allies back to the village.

With the village outskirts cleared, Shattered Spear and its allies moved their siege camp up. Removing any remaining stragglers and saving a couple more villagers, the new camp was set up on a hill across from the village and the sound of blacksmithing and horns of war could be heard as the siege reached a new phase.

After an engineer assessed the defenses, the next couple of hours had the allied forces bring a battering ram to the gates of Silfurfal and, through a torrent of arrows and spells, set to the tedious, back-breaking work of turning the proud gate into splinters. Villagers and Mordok spilled through cracks in the wall and assaulted the flanks of the siege party and at times forced them into a retreat to reorganize. The Blue-Clad Mordok’s poisoned arrows nearly caused multiple deaths, but equally shocking was when a handful of warriors heard it mock them in their own tongue as they retreated. Each round of ramming the gate caused great amounts of broken equipment and bloodshed, but the allied forces remained stalwart and returned repeatedly to see the job through.

Before the gate was able to be broken, one of the allied warriors stepped forward and challenged the Alpha to an honor duel. The Blue-Clad Mordok spoke up in trade speech and accepted the duel, sending the Alpha forward as its champion. A tense energy held the collective warriors as they watched the duel progress. Both combatants fought with unrelenting force, and the Ulven warrior was repeatedly thrown around the fighting ground as the Alpha’s ax struck with an unstoppable pushing force. In the end they both fell to each other’s blades in the grips of their unbridled rage, and shock took both armies before the brief silence was broken. The Mordok attempted to claim the body of the fallen Ulven warrior, but the allied forces charged forward with fury and were able to push in to reclaim him. The warrior was successfully rescued during the chaotic fighting and brought back to camp where he was immediately tended to by a healer. 

Breaking down the gate and holding the Mordok forces proved to be a great challenge, and the Warpack leader and rest of the siege camp found themselves having to make a difficult choice. They had only been somewhat successful with saving villagers during the gate sieging, and many more villagers were dying during these fights than in the outskirts. The opinions of all were taken into consideration as it was to be decided if the new focus would be saving the villagers at the cost of taking the village, or if they would still focus on taking the village and accept the increased casualties of the corrupted people of Clan Shattered Spear. After heated discussion and a close vote, it was decided that the village had to be taken at the cost of the villagers. While some additional villagers were able to be saved as the siege continued, many more had to die to keep the siege successful.

With the cracking of wood and a hail of splinters, the gates of the village were shattered and a volley of arrows and magic spewed outward from the village as the allied forces pushed their way inside. The Blue-Clad Mordok was seen laughing and taunting the allied forces as its body dissipated into the mana stream, taking with it the fallen Alpha’s seemingly enchanted ax. Any semblance of order quickly dispersed as fighting spread throughout the village. A small number of villagers were captured and brought to the camp to be cleansed, but the majority had to be cut down and executed where they lay. In the final minutes of sunlight, surrounded by the blood of Ulven villagers, a team of ritualists cleansed the Corruption Idol in the middle of the village that is believed to have jump-started this entire brutal chapter in Shattered Spear history; hopefully bringing it to a close.

Word has stretched across Mardrun with the announcement of the location of the Annual Market Faire. This year the responsibility and honor has fallen on Key’s Crossing, home of The Ravens. Their settlement has recently undergone an incredible boom in growth and they have officially become a State sanctioned under the authority of Newhope and as such have been given the opportunity to showcase their growth and prosperity.

Before long flyers and criers are seen across Mardrun inviting people to come and join in the festivities of the annual Market Faire. There are boasts of unique grand tournaments and contests. There are subtle mentions of chairs followed by absolute clarification that there will be NO CHAIRS at Keys Crossing, followed again with conspicuous winks. There are announcements of the accepted invitations from a great number of merchants and caravaneers so that there will be no shortage of shopping options.

Soon the cobblestone streets and market squares of Keys Crossing, already festooned with banners and garlands, are filled with throngs of travelers. The taverns pack tight and ply patrons with special concoctions. The Public Market Square erupts into life as local merchants hock their wares to out of town travelers. The City of Keys Crossing, already home to the happiest people on Mardrun, erupts with life.

UPDATE:

The day came and went, filled with mirth and good times. Contests were held and victors declared. Medals were given and prize purses distributed. There was even a successful attempt at enchanting held in the woods safely away from the faire goers. Liquor flowed freely through the Faire Grounds of Key’s Crossing as laughter and joy marked the success of this jovial expression of The Raven’s pride in the growth and prosperity of their home.

A call has gone out from Clan Shattered Spear to the holds and leaders of Mardrun. While they were distracted by the mysterious village of Silfurfal and its maddened occupants, a massive army of Mordok thrust itself past their outpost on The Shield and flooded into the Clan lands to the south. The Shattered Spear warriors fought as valiantly as they were able, but the force of the Mordok was far too great and forced them further south. Shattered Spear is noted as one of the most martially-proud Ulven Clans and a bulwark against The Dirge. Should their lands be overrun with Mordok there would be nothing stopping them from pushing deeper south and The Shield of Mardrun would find itself irreparably cleaved. Since this initial onslaught several villages in northern Shattered Spear have already gone quiet as they fell behind the Mordok front lines, Silfurfal included. A great deal of support will be needed to push back against the Mordok to force them back north.

 

Word of this invasion spread quickly as well as the call for aid. Shattered Spear tried to reach out to the other outposts along the Shield, but quickly learned that they were all dealing with massive waves of Mordok as well. It seems almost as if the Mordok coordinated this attack specifically to strike when the strange behavior at Silfurfal had pulled attention away from The Shield. Fortunately, aid has come from the other areas of Mardrun. Before long, banners of Warpacks from other clans and units from different groups have been seen marching toward Shattered Spear, fully aware that this will be a long fight, but it must be fought.

 

=Update=

The sounds of war soon rang out throughout the lands of Clan Shattered Spear. Warriors and supporters gathered into war camps along the front in a united effort to drive the Mordok back towards The Dirge. As is often the case the day began with a large, yet unorganized wave of eager and whelpish Mordok. These whelps are often unblooded and untrained, but are still incredibly dangerous. They fight with a disorganized frantic nature as if they are looking to prove themselves on the field of battle. No matter the nature of this wave of Mordok, the warriors were able to adequately break and repel these Mordok.

As it often goes with extensive conflicts, the rest of the day had repeated battles occurring across the line. Waves of Mordok warriors crashed against waves of defenders and warriors with the mordok being broken and driven back in most fights. The fights were hard fought and there were multiple close battles where only willpower carried the defenders to victory allowing almost all fights to be a win, all except a mordok wave that brought a unique foe.

An Alpha Mordok joined one of the waves, bringing along a retinue of highly skilled and armored warriors. It is incredibly rare to see Mordok in well fitted and cared for suits of armor, yet in this group it was more rare to see an unarmored Mordok than one who was fully kitted as a warrior should be. Arrows and death magic rained upon the defenders as the Mordok and their Alpha smashed through shield walls and batted their opponents around like a folding stool in a Chairs Tournament. The Alpha, clad in wicked, spiked armor, showed immense strength and was capable of delivering incredibly cleaving force with one arm and swings so powerful that they knocked people from their feet. In the end the defenders were wholly unable to stand against this Alpha and his retinue, finding themselves forced to fall back to the war camp. Luckily the Alpha seemed to lose interest in what he perceived to be weaker foes and moved on, not being seen for the rest of the day.

Regardless of this singular loss against the Alpha, the defending warriors were able to push the Mordok army back into the northern reaches of Clan Shattered Spear, allowing the front lines to push up and prepare to move on some of the villages that had fallen behind the Mordok push. While the village of Silfurfal is seen as a goal for many, it still remains farther to the north and will require much more time to reach and attempt to retake. Spirits were high as Warpack Leader Hersir Bodil Shattered Spear relayed information to the camp and relieved the warriors of their duty for the day, but this relaxed atmosphere did not last long.

As warriors doffed their armor and laid their weapons aside for the night movement was seen on the trail heading toward camp. A small unit of Ulven warriors marched toward the camp and a few guards went to greet their allies, but the truth of the matter was soon revealed. The incoming warriors roared at the camp, calling them Mordok who should leave Shattered Spear Lands and in the name of Laifnar Icefury they charged into the camp with weapons drawn. While the initial shock allowed some injuries to be caused by the attackers, the defenders were able to quickly defeat these invading warriors and clerics immediately set to work trying to cleanse them of any perverse influences. Fortunately, all of the warriors were able to be cleansed and treated by the camp’s healers. Those who weren’t under immense shock were able to relay stories of how they had spent the whole day fighting innumerable armies of Mordok, but they never worried for their lives because through the whole thing they fought alongside radiant nature spirits and landwights. While glad to be alive, further shock slowly dawned on the villagers as they learned who they had been really fighting that day. Unfortunately there was no time to dig any deeper and learn the truth behind their words nor understand the strange influences that drove them into madness.

As the month of May rolls in, exciting and amazing news sweeps through Mardrun. Prince Aylin declares that Aylin’s Reach will be sending a workforce to The Shield to build a port-outpost on the eastern side of the defensive line to help keep back Mordok forces. This move seems to follow the current motives and road that Prince Aylin has been following as of late by befriending the Ulven Clans. In this endeavor he has requested those of martial ability to help protect the outpost while it is being built as a collaborative effort and a way for one of the colonist groups to “do their part” for the good of all. Mercenaries, laborers, and supplies start to flow northward at this announcement due to the anticipation of the construction and posting security against the press of possible Mordok attacks. With Spring nearing its end, Mordok activity has been noted to be rising in the area, so those who venture to the Shield should expect combat once the construction commences.

The previous news is almost overshadowed by the Prince also asking for assistance with another adventurous voyage. This time it is with helping set up a settlement with docks to an island north of Clan Whiteoak and Clan Axehound. According to both Clans, their leaders had laid a claim to settle the island generations ago. Between the island being a bit remote and the conflict that forced both Clans to focus on more immediate territories, neither one has tried to settle it in earnest. While the island seems to be uninhabited, it could still be a dangerous journey being so close to the Outlands. These two Clans, their long standing rivalry now set aside, have agreed to venture out with Aldorian forces to explore and begin to settle this island.

As such, Prince Aylin is looking for explorers and scouts to help investigate and map-out the nearby areas of the large island, and some martial forces to help keep the area safe as workers set up the docks and outpost. The proximity of the new Aldorian Shield outpost and this proposed settlement could allow a navigable waterway for fresh timber and materials to help maintain or expand The Shield. In return, those assisting Prince Aylin’s ambition will have temporary free reign to harvest the raw materials in the area as payment for helping protect and map out the area before the settlement is finished. With such a payment promised, those willing to travel to an unknown region so near the Outlands for potentially rare materials and vast amounts of unknown reagents or materials, Aylin’s Reach begins to fill with volunteers seeking adventure or material payment. Ship manifests of names of those looking for payment or adventure begin to fill up. The first ships have already set sail with the laborers and construction crews that have set the foundation of this new island outpost, soon to follow being the volunteer adventurer.

UPDATE:

The ships made landfall without much fuss and the early crews were able to set up the main camp without issue. From the early moments it seemed as though this would be a pretty rote expedition. Unfortunately in the end that was not to be the case. Soon after the arrival of the second round of ships, sightings of undead started to occur with regularity. 

This did not stop the adventuring team from completing all of the tasks they had set out to. The outpost was finished and fortified and the island was mapped for Prince Aylin in great detail. Several areas of importance were noted for resource extraction in the future. A small cache of letters was found as well detailing the fate of the people who became the undead on this island. Letters were cataloged and translated and there was even a mention of where their ship had sunk as well as the potential of some lost lore and treasure locked away in waxed sealed chests in her cargo hold. A great deal was accomplished and much was learned. In these endeavors the adventuring party was wholly successful. Should Aylin wish to capitalize on this hard work however, it is likely that the undead on the island would need to be dealt with decisively

The adventurers battled with the undead throughout the expedition, but were consistently placed on the backfoot by a powerful caster that was eventually understood to be a Wraith. She continuously demanded the return of a knife that she believed one of the adventurers held, but no one came forward with this object. This Wraith plagued the adventurers through their excursion and it seemed that no amount of battering would keep her from returning again and again and again.

Some memories of the Old World led to the belief that there must be some type of an object or place of power that was keeping the Wraith tethered to our plane and after a great deal of searching something similar to a Gravestone was found. Luckily this stone didn’t seem to be a fully powered Gravestone as the adventurers were able to walk near it without the protection of Divine Barriers, though even remote proximity caused severe nausea. Attempts were made to destroy this stone, but without the proper rituals or understanding of the inner workings of this strange stone, there was little chance the stone and its foul magic could be fully destroyed. In the end a team of ritualists were able to place the stone into a temporary state of dormancy, but there was no time to sit and study to learn how long that dormancy may last. Screams rang out from the outpost.

A large wave of undead crashed against the outpost and its defenders fought valiantly before being overwhelmed and having to abandon the outpost until reinforcements arrived. Many were bitten or collapsed under the pressure of death magic, but as reinforcements continued to arrive the attackers were eventually crushed or driven away. This victory gave enough of a momentary respite to the party and they were able to quickly and safely load themselves and their equipment back onto the boats headed for Aylin’s Reach. As the ships pushed off from the docks many looked back and saw the sickening sway of undead just inside the treeline accompanied by the ghastly visage of The Wraith.

Back in Aylin’s Reach the news of the undead on the island spread quickly. Aylin sent word of this to the Clan Leadership of Clans Whiteoak and Axehound and the three parties agreed that at this time it would be best to quarantine the island until a time that a concerted effort could be made to return and handle the situation. There is no doubt that the story of this island is not yet over and if there are return trips in the future, they will be far more prepared for what they will encounter.

As the month of May rolls in, exciting and amazing news sweeps through Mardrun. Prince Aylin declares that Aylin’s Reach will be sending a workforce to The Shield to build a port-outpost on the eastern side of the defensive line to help keep back Mordok forces. This move seems to follow the current motives and road that Prince Aylin has been following as of late by befriending the Ulven Clans. In this endeavor he has requested those of martial ability to help protect the outpost while it is being built as a collaborative effort and a way for one of the colonist groups to “do their part” for the good of all. Mercenaries, laborers, and supplies start to flow northward at this announcement due to the anticipation of the construction and posting security against the press of possible Mordok attacks. With Spring nearing its end, Mordok activity has been noted to be rising in the area, so those who venture to the Shield should expect combat once the construction commences.

The previous news is almost overshadowed by the Prince also asking for assistance with another adventurous voyage. This time it is with helping set up a settlement with docks to an island north of Clan Whiteoak and Clan Axehound. According to both Clans, their leaders had laid a claim to settle the island generations ago. Between the island being a bit remote and the conflict that forced both Clans to focus on more immediate territories, neither one has tried to settle it in earnest. While the island seems to be uninhabited, it could still be a dangerous journey being so close to the Outlands. These two Clans, their long standing rivalry now set aside, have agreed to venture out with Aldorian forces to explore and begin to settle this island.

As such, Prince Aylin is looking for explorers and scouts to help investigate and map-out the nearby areas of the large island, and some martial forces to help keep the area safe as workers set up the docks and outpost. The proximity of the new Aldorian Shield outpost and this proposed settlement could allow a navigable waterway for fresh timber and materials to help maintain or expand The Shield. In return, those assisting Prince Aylin’s ambition will have temporary free reign to harvest the raw materials in the area as payment for helping protect and map out the area before the settlement is finished. With such a payment promised, those willing to travel to an unknown region so near the Outlands for potentially rare materials and vast amounts of unknown reagents or materials, Aylin’s Reach begins to fill with volunteers seeking adventure or material payment. Ship manifests of names of those looking for payment or adventure begin to fill up. The first ships have already set sail with the laborers and construction crews that have set the foundation of this new island outpost, soon to follow being the volunteer adventurer.

UPDATE Will come after the event on 5/28 – 5/29