Those in Tauricia knew the drums of war would be sounding all month. The Tauricians have been an independent people, living under autonomous reign for years, but they now only desire complete and total independence. This was made evident by the Taurician summoning of the banners and creation of more warships with the wood supply they did have. It would not be long before the Tauricians began to attack points across the continent, but it would not be easy.

"Commander Hzell," said Temir Karacid to his uncle, "you must give me a status on the situation."

The commander proceeded to take out a map of the Southern Region, home to all the Lordships in the South, including the Taurician Isles. "Sir, our scouts have reported that a portion of the grand fleet is being assembled in the South, but we do not know where. The blockade and embargo have gone into effect, and already we have started to ration food to the people. This fleet could threaten our fishing waters and cut us off from all food supplies, starving our people. We must locate this fleet and destroy it, it is our main priority." The warchief studied what his uncle had drew on the map. "We do have some targets in mind for an attack, but the entire royal army is on standby waiting for our next move." said Hzell.

"All twenty thousand?" Asked Temir Karacid.

"All twenty thousand." replied the commander. "They would be on us if we even dared attacked anywhere in the south."

"Rules out the Stormgully, the Plains, and the Windfall Hills as targets." said the anxious warchief. "A quick hit and run against Maelstrom Bay would provide some much needed supplies, the lords of the region do not have the army and navy to stop us. Yet the threat of the royal army reaching word is a big threat. Perhaps we should strike somewhere in the north."

"The royal fleet would be at its strongest up north, where the major ports of the Empire lie. It would be a brutal sea battle for control of the waters. A direct attack would be............" 

"A wise and interesting opportunity for an alliance." The two men looked up and saw the interrupting mouth of Guryt Karacid entering the war-room. "We have another realm with a common enemy. My spies have reported that the Conrads of The Young Isles of Men are being hunted by the Crown, and already they have lost members to the Emperor's justice. Perhaps if we send ships we can help secure those islands for a possible attack site."

"We would leave the Islands defenseless if we send too many, yet we cannot send too few. Send 50 Galleys and 200 Triremes to the Young Isles, along with 4600 men, half of our armed forces. Hzell I give control of the army to you. You must lead these men to the north. Attack any coastal region you find on the way up, yet do not draw the eye of the Royal Army. I shall send a small group of raiders to the Stormgully to distract the Army and fleet as you make your way up North, but you must be prepared incase the fleet attacks." Ordered Temir Karacid.

"Yes Warchief, it shall be done." Said Hzell before exiting the room, leaving Temir with his younger brother.

"Perhaps we should take this opportunity to find your niece and nephew. They are still up there." said Guryt Karacid. 

"Perhaps indeed little brother. Right now though I need you and your cronies to do something for me." said Temir Karacid. "Send your spies to the mainland. I want to know the Empire's every move, every decision, and everything coming from Skyhaven. Information is important, and you seem the most capable in getting it."