[IC] The Darkness Descends (Fantasy Conquest RP)

[Romero]

Summer of the Year 2717

Alliances have been drawn and honoured as the nations of Alria are drawn into the chaos of war. It is with blood that the new flowers of the spring were watered, and it looks as if these conflicts will not cease as the days lengthen and the sun beats down. Nor does the summer halt the Darkness, which launches a sudden and brutal attack, claiming provinces from the Holy Novgorod Imperium, who sat idle despite the warnings. War is coming to them all, and none shall remain untouched by death.

Fresh from their victory over the Holy Lands, New Engelica has marched eastwards, occupying the province left for them by the Broken Empire, both nations honouring their agreement as the once proud nation is ground to dust alongside its gods.

The Confederacy of Sawl, its dirigibles not resting idle and fresh from attacking the Union’s fleets, once more see’s action against the Union of Blaris. With the dominating air support blowing huge holes in the Union’s defense, the armies of Kebriw, spearheaded by a detachment from the Confederacy itself, drove their enemies off the island and into the sea.

Responding to their allies calls for aid, Tushienia marches to defend its neighbours lands. Using sorcery and magic, their Magi turn the tide of the battle and beat back the forces of the Pualirian Empire, even as the Darkness pushes even further into that nations land.

Despite the bloody price paid to drive the Holy Lands forces from the province, the Broken Empire marches from their new conquest, leaving New Engelica to claim the land, as was agreed just seasons ago. Now the Broken Empire turns its eyes towards Limgar to the north.

The Kingdom of Zakol has been bloodied. Despite driving back the defenders of Iparis as they pushed down the centre, the expeditionary force sent into the left province were driven back and brutally defeated. Now the Kingdom must defend itself against not only the inevitable retribution of Iparis, but also the opportunistic attack of the Holy Empire of Quaris.

Desperately trying to flee from the coming Darkness, it is the Republic of Andinon who faces invasion from the Pualirian Empire, and must rush to defend their borders against an army driven almost mad with fear.



MAP KEY

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Provinces 1-24

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Province 1 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 2 - Pualirian Empire(NPC)
Province 3 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 4 - Pualirian Empire(NPC)
Province 5 - Pualirian Empire(NPC)
Province 6 - Republic of Andinon(Eklipse)
Province 7 - Pualirian Empire(NPC)
Province 8 - Duringis(NPC)
Province 9 - Duringis(NPC)
Province 10 - Tushienia(Bright_Ops)
Province 11 - Tushienia(Bright_Ops)
Province 12 - Tushienia(Bright_Ops)
Province 13 - Holy Empire of Quaris(NPC)
Province 14 - Republic of Andinon(Eklipse)
Province 15 - Republic of Andinon(Eklipse)
Province 16 - Holy Empire of Quaris(NPC)
Province 17 - Holy Empire of Quaris(NPC)
Province 18 - Kingdom of Zakol(BlackRose)
Province 19 - Dagrenas(NPC)
Province 20 - Dagrenas(NPC)
Province 21 - Dagrenas(NPC)
Province 22 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 23 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 24 - Holy Novgorod Imperium(NPC)

Provinces 25-61

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Province 25 - Kingdom of Zakol(BlackRose)
Province 26 - Iparis(NPC)
Province 27 - Kingdom of Zakol(BlackRose)
Province 28 - Iparis(NPC)
Province 29 - Empire of Ubalri(NPC)
Province 30 - Cosab(NPC)
Province 31 - Cosab(NPC)
Province 32 - Cosab(NPC)
Province 33 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 34 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 35 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 36 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 37 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 38 - Empire of Ubalri(NPC)
Province 39 - New Gobolia(NPC)
Province 40 - New Gobolia(NPC)
Province 41 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 42 - Iastuf Republic(NPC)
Province 43 - Bripiak(NPC)
Province 44 - Bripiak(NPC)
Province 45 - Bripiak(NPC)
Province 46 - Iastuf Republic(NPC)
Province 47 - The Broken Empire(ForKhorne)
Province 48 - The Broken Empire(ForKhorne)
Province 49 - Limgar(NPC)
Province 50 - Limgar(NPC)
Province 51 - The Broken Empire(ForKhorne)
Province 52 - Limgar(NPC)
Province 53 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 54 - Orngat(NPC)
Province 55 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 56 - Orngat(NPC)
Province 57 - Orngat(NPC)
Province 58 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 59 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 60 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 61 - Broken Empire(ForKhorne)

Provinces 62-70

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Province 62 - Union of Blaris(NPC)
Province 63 - Union of Blaris(NPC)
Province 64 - Union of Blaris(NPC)
Province 65 - Pankra(NPC)
Province 66 - The Confederacy of Sawl(Lauder)
Province 67 - The Confederacy of Sawl(Lauder)
Province 68 - Kebriw(NPC)
Province 69 - Kebriw(NPC)
Province 70 - Kebriw(NPC)

[Mardox]

Pareth the Wrathful sat in his war room deciding what to do next. He had just seized power and whipped the nation of Pankra into shape. Looking at reports and some updated maps, he was delighted to learn that Blaris's navy had been devastated and their territory was being pushed back. He decided it was time to take back what had been lost from Pankra. He pointed to a half-orc half-goblin bodyguard and ordered "You. The one with the wild beard. Go get me Orich and Stroblech. They have work to do." The soldier scurried off to do Pareth's bidding and soon after, Orich and Stroblech were present. Pareth, not being one for pleasantries, immediately jumped to business. "Stroblech, I need you to ready the fleet to transport an army. Blaris's navy has been devastated so you should face minimal resistance. However, if any ships stand in your way, you are to sink them mercilessly. Go to the territory Blaris robbed from us. You will transport Orich and his Order of Dark Secrets along with ten of our artillery, all our cavalry, our Elite archers, our Skirmishers, our Berserkers, 1700 Horde Archers, 1700 Men-At-Arms. Once you have landed the troops, report back here with a couple of ships and take diplomats to Kebriw and the Sawlian Confederacy, we have a common foe and would make an excellent alliance in my opinion." He then turned to the wizened orc necromancer "Orich, once you and your order have landed, call upon the Dead Legions. Once the dead are ready, the are to advance into the province, scouting the area, leaving civilians alone and attacking Blaris soldiers without mercy to soften them up for the elites. Should the leaders of Blaris wish to parley, demand nothing less than the return of our stolen province and the Southwest Island (63)." Orich nodded then frowned. "Milord, who will command our ground forces? I lack a commander's knowledge, Stroblech has other duties and you must rule the nation." Pareth frowned and stroked his chin, this was not something he had considered. In days of old, he had been the general. If not him, or the old wizard or the little goblin admiral then who? It would need to be a soldier. Someone loyal and well-trained. His eyes lit up with an idea. His bodyguards had always been selected for skill, tactical knowledge and loyalty. "Wildbeard! Congratulations on your promotion. You are now General Wildbeard, effective immediately. Before you tell me your real name, remember that a nickname helps build a legend. Now, away with the three of you!" The three left to carry out his orders.

Actions

Orders
Navy is to transport 15 war-magi, 10 artillery, 750 Berserkers (heavy infantry), 3000 Skirmishers (Light infantry), 1000 Archers, 1000 Raiders (light cavalry), 200 Black Knights (heavy cavalry), 1700 Men-at-arms (conscript infantry), 1700 Horde Archers (conscript Archers) all to 64.
War-magi will then conjure 15000 Dead Legionnaires (conscript undead, even mix of infantry and archers) who will charge into the province.
Diplomats dispatched to 70 and 66.

Recruitment
Province 65:
1 Transport ship unit
1 magi unit

Research: Lesser Air Magic

Garrison

Province 65:
73,300 Men-At-Arms (conscript infantry)
73,300 Horde Archers (conscript archers)
5 artillery

[Bright_Ops]

Word of the victories in Duringis had already reached the streets of Tushienia with a great deal of zeal; It had been quite some time since the nation had marched to war and the fact that two great victories had been won with less then fifty casualties was a major boost to national pride. As the spring started to melt away the snows of winter, the armies of Tushienia were marching once more to battle in order to reclaim Duringis's lost territory of province 7 with Duringis own armies marching with them.

It wasn't all doom and gloom however... before the armies a messenger had been sent before the army into the Pualirian held Province 7 that made quite a simple offer: Anyone (be they civilian or military) that surrendered and presented themselves to the Tushienian army without a fight or ill intent would be relocated to Tushienia and granted citizenship (Alongside their families if possible). With the darkness eating away at the heart of the Puralirian Empire and the united push into its recently conquered territories by those it had invaded, how many would take the offer to bail out of their dying Empire?

To the south through, a new front was opening against a long awaited enemy...

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Yarnam, Province 11

Councilor Nightshade smiled wickedly as he watched over the armed forces that were marching in formation under his command, their gear checked and prepared for a war that had been longoverdue. The fact that Tushienia and Holy Empire of Quaris had never actually gone to war during their two hundred year history despite the hostility of their conflicting cultures and the tensions along the boarder was honestly rather surprising for all concerned, but that state of affairs could not be allowed to continue; The darkness to the east was grave a threat to ignore but with the bulk of their armed forces tied up on the boarder with Quaris to discourage them from doing something stupid Tushienia couldn't properly support her allies or her armies aboard.

This state of affairs could not be allowed to continue; If the gnomes of Andinon could be trusted, a solution to the problem would be coming rather swiftly.

.............................................................................
The Tushienia/Quaris boarder, Provinces 12/17.

Despite the fixed nature of their smiles, Rodrim Payne and Nuyor the Doctor seemed to be in a legitimately good mood and the two of them surveyed their forces as they marched into the lands of the southern zealots. They had been playing the game of politics for well over two hundred years and there were few minds that would come close to hazarding a guess that one of their greatest allies on the board was Quaris itself; The zealots had always provided them with an excuse to build up their military forces as well as giving them a common enemy to promote stronger relations with their other neighbors.

If they weren't so insanely insufferable, the liches might have actually felt bad about finally having to put the fools down.

..............................................................
Valtegaarde, Capital of Tushienia, HQ of the Engineers and Tinkers Union

The steam engine might have only recently appeared in the public domain, but already it had been embraced with open arms by the citizens of Valtegaarde. There was little doubt that the rest of Tushienia would follow suit quickly enough. The industrial area was already in a major upheaval at the sheer amount of productivity a single engine could help bring about; the lay outs of factory floors were being redesigned around the machines with the sole intent of increasing and profiting off of the brand new scale of production.

For Ponder through, it was only the first step to greater glories. Already he was working on blueprints for a better, more refined engine... one that would branch out all over Tushienia can unite the land with steam, steel and iron!

Actions

Recruitment and Training:
1 x Heavy Infantry - Province 10
1 x Heavy Infantry - Province 11
1 x Heavy Infantry - Province 12

Research: Trains - Turn 1

Movement

2 War-Magi, 9 Units of Magi, 4 Units of Heavy Infantry from Province 8 move to Province 7.

4 War-Magi, 16 Units of Magi, 2 Cannons, 2 Units of Archers, 4 Units of Heavy Infantry, 2 Units of Arquebussers move from Province 9 to Province 7.

6 War-Mages, 22 Mages, 4 Cannons, 6 Archers, 14 Heavy Infantry, 3 Arquebusiers from Province 11 move into Province 13.

8 War-Mages, 30 Mages, 4 Cannons, 8 Archers, 18 Heavy Infantry, 3 Arquebusiers from Province 12 into Province 17.

2 Heavy Infantry from Province 10 to Province 11.

1 Heavy Infantry, 1 Arquebusier from Province 10 to Province 12.

Calling upon their dark powers to raise the dead to fight, the magi and war-magi in Province 7 summon 10 units of Skeleton Infantry, 10 units of Skeleton Bowmen, 5 units of Skeleton Horsemen, 2 Ghostly Archers and 4 Wrathbound Cannons to bolster their forces.

Calling upon their dark powers to raise the dead to fight, the magi and war-magi in Province 13 summon 10 units of skeleton Infantry, 10 units of Skeleton Bowmen, 2 units of Skeleton Horsemen, 2 Units of Ghostly Light Infantry and 4 units of Wrathbound Heavy Cavalry.

Calling upon their dark powers to raise the dead to fight, the magi and war-magi in Province 17 summon 15 units of Skeleton Infantry, 15 units of Skeleton Bowmen, 4 Wrathbound Cannons, 2 units of Ghostly Light Infantry and 2 units of Undead Mages to bolster their forces.

Garrisons

10:
2 Archers
2 Heavy Infantry

11:
2 Archers
4 Heavy Infantry

12:
2 Mages
3 Heavy Infantry
1 Arquebusiers

[Eklispe]

Province 6
Fenris Thunderborn gave a sigh of relief. They'd driven back the enemy, though not without some losses. Still overall it was a splendid victory, though they could expect more. That brought up the question of whether or not they should strike back. He was reluctant to attack a nation already under assault from the great shadow, but it seemed the empire was eager to attack. It was nearly always better to attack than defend, perhaps it would be best simply to set up more defenses and ask for reinforcements. If it proved necessary to attack back they would do so but for now they would wait.

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Province 15
The Red Baron grinned. The order had been given. They were to attack province 13 and take it from the holy empire. It had a been a while since he'd been in anything other than a practice fight. He grinned and gave his wife a thumbs up since she couldn't hear him over the engine and he flew off, the rest of his fleet behind him. It was a good day to die.

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Province 14
Orders were given and troops scrambled to move. No one wanted to displease Daruis Thunderborn. He was unhappy enough that they had made alliances, laziness wouldn't be tolerated. The western border needed more troops and armies were needed to lead the attack into the 13th province. At least from what it seemed their allies were reliable and in need of HIS nations aid, not the other way around. Tushienia and Zakol both seemed like they would make good friends, albiet un-needed ones, but good friends none the less. Assuming of course there was no treachery. Could never be too sure.

Actions

Send diplomats to ensure peace with Duringis.

Recruiting
x1 Dirigiblie in 14, 6, 15
x1 Heavy Infantry in 6, 15
x1 War Magi in 14

Move 104 dirigibles from all provinces into province 13.
Move 10 War Magi, 750 Harriers, 200 Storm Shadows and 100 Royal Guard from Province 14 into 13
All under the effects of Cloak of Invisibility.

Move 150 Royal Guard and 120 Storm Shadows from province 15 to province 6, reinforcing.

Research: Superior Forging Turn 2

Garrisons

Garrison of Province 14
-5 War Magi
-250 Harriers
-20 Storm Shadows
-5 Ballista
-100 Royal Guard

Garrison of Province 6
-13 War Magi
-450 Harriers
-300 Storm Shadows
-2 Artillery
-275 Royal Guard
-1 Dirigible

Garrison of Province 15
-30 War Magi
-1000 Harriers
-200 Storm Shadows
-10 Ballista
-200 Royal Guard
-101 Dirigibles

Armies in province 13
-10 War Magi
-750 Harriers
-200 Storm Shadows
-100 Royal Guard
-104 Dirigibles

[Legion02]

Alec Bredain, Sindar Bredain, Eléane Bredain
Province 53
“We must use the element of surprise!” A younger, less experienced war-magi. He was among the reinforcements coming from New Engelica. Most other war-magi disagreed with the warhungry youth. “Marching into uncharted terrain? Madness.” An elder war-magi said. “Then what do you suppose we do?” the youth asked mockingly. The older war-magi did not like that. “We send scouts. We send scouts and we pray that the Whisperer will grant us a vision.” The elder war-magi stated. His fellow elders were in agreement. The youths were not. Never the less, the votes were cast and the army would sit tight.

“Eléane.” Alec said to his daughter as she prepared to leave on the scouting mission. “I will not let you down like the last time father.” She said, hoping to make him proud. “Eléane. Be cautious. I will not have my daughter imprisoned. Or…even worse. Use absolute stealth, my dear. We don’t want to be seen.” Eléane looked down for a moment. Questioning if she should tell her father or not. “I won’t be captured, father.” She eventually said, showing him a hidden dagger strapped to her arm. Alec knew better than to say anything about it. Yet it hurt him, to see his own daughter talking about such thing.

Some students
Province 58, Al’Gruin
The crowd cheered as Silvester, the youthful magi took to the skies with his Wings. The framework was now made from a rare but lightweight wood. With golden rings with enchanted runes. The canvas was pretty much the same, but the fin on the back was longer. That, in combination with the increased control over the airflow due to the golden ring, allowed for far better maneuverability.

All in all, it was a successful design. But the youths did not stop there. Yoren called upon his cousin, a lake fisher. Together with the twins, they began to make plans on how to lift a bigger object than a human being. The end goal was to lift a boat.

My Actions

Garrison
Province 58
9 Units of Heavy Infantry
5 Units of Light Cavalry
4 Units of Magi
10 Units of War-Magi

Province 59
3 Units of Light Infantry
6 Units of Heavy Infantry
5 Units of Light Cavalry
6 Units of Magi
4 Units of War-Magi

Province 60
2 Units of Light Infantry
8 Units of Heavy Infantry
7 Units of Magi
3 Units of War-Magi

Province 55
2 Units of Light Infantry
9 Units of Heavy Infantry
5 Units of Magi
6 Units of War-Magi

Province 53
23 Units of Heavy Infantry
3 Units of Light Cavalry
38 Units of Magi
25 Units of War-Magi

Troop movement
From 53 to 52 - Scout intent
1 Unit of Light Cavalry
2 Units of Magi
1 Unit of War-Magi

Invoking "Angels whisper in your ear" power

Production
Province 58: War-Magi
province 59: War-Magi
Province 60: War-Magi
Province 55: Heavy Infantry
Province 53: Heavy Infantry

Research
Dirigibles

[Romero]

Ignore

[Romero]

My bad, update too early! Watch this space

[ForKhorne]

Mylori roared in pain as the healers rubbed a foul-smelling paste onto his scarred face. It had been weeks since the battle, and his shoulder had all but healed, but the burnt handprint on his face was still as clear as the day that accursed priest had given it to him.

"Damn them! How long till this thing fades?"

The healers were quiet for a moment before one, an aged, white haired dwarf, spoke softly.

"We do think that the wound will ever fade. There is a powerful magic at work here."

The Dwarf roared in anguish before regaining control and taking heaving breathes.

"What about my shoulder? Can I fight?"

"We have removed the infection, your strength should return by the Autumn"

Mylori allowed himself a smile that grew into a booming laugh.

"Excellent! I have a lot of lost time to make up for. Fetch Tavirin here, we have much to discuss"

Garrison

Hider

Province 61
-3 Heavy Infantry Units
-4 Artillery Units
-10 Mechanical Warriors Units
-1 Mechanical Walkers Units
-11 War-Magi Units

Province 51
-5 Heavy Infantry Units
-7 Artillery Units
-32 Mechanical Warriors Units
-9 Mechanical Walkers Units
-39 War-Magi Units

Province 48
-5 Heavy Infantry Units
-5 Artillery Units
-5 Mechanical Warriors Units
-6 Mechanical Walkers Units
-12 War-Magi Units

Province 47
-5 Heavy Infantry Units
-5 Artillery Units
-5 Mechanical Warriors Units
-5 Mechanical Walkers Units
-13 War-Magi Units

Actions


Recruitment

Hider

Province 61
1 War-Magi Units

Province 51
1 War-Magi Units

Province 48
1 War-Magi Units

Province 47
1 War-Magi Unit

Research
Lesser Earth Magic (Turn 1)

[BlackRose]

Kingdom Of Zakol

Hakurei, Capital of Zakol - Office of the Minister of foreign affairs

Lord Claymont sat at his desk inspecting the mountain of documents & letters that seemed to never decrease in number, "Right, now i can deal with the letters from my agents..." opening the messages one after the other as he recorded each in a large book dating each one as he did so, "Dagrenas... they found nothing? no sign of settlements or life at all?!," He frowned but promptly shook it off "Fools trying to hide away from the world around them i bet" He moved on after adding a comment to the documentation "Dagrenas = no hope" then he moved on to the other messages from the diplomats sent out over the past month. He read the report from the people he'd sent to the Holy Empire of Quaris they'd arrived back in the capital after only a couple days leaving "Turned away at the boarder, due to Zakol is a nation of unholy heathens practicing witchcraft... & false gods?" Claymont grinned at the insult but it faded as he got an odd feeling as he thought about Quaris's views, but continued on "Cosab, surprisingly friendly towards us openly accepted the peace & non-aggression treaties with us..." He noticed the diplomats little note before continuing on "...May be seeking allies as they fear the apparently aggressive Lagosami tribes to the south?." Claymont rifled through the messages before he turned to one of his staff "You!, boy! i sent some diplomats to speak with the Lagosami tribes ages ago go find me their report i don't have it!" the young man nodded and races out of the room as Claymont continued on "arrived in the Empire of Ubalri where met with open arms & desperation?, they seek immediate aid to help them combat the invading Lagosami tribe...".

Claymont already knew what had happened before the youngman had returned to tell him there hasn't been any contact from the group sent to talk with the Lagosami in the far south, having sent the assistant away again to get the records of the people in the missing diplomatic party, he started drafting the usual condolence letters for their families.

After an hour or so just as he'd finished with the letters, another of his staff urgently burst into the room, "Lord Claymont!, a message has arrived from General mokurs camp in northern Zakol by carrier pigeon" The aid passes him the report sighing deeply after he read it, "As our forces are in the south, the holy empire of Quaris has launched a full-scale attack against us, Gneral mokurs moving to intercept with what what token forces he has left stationed in the provence..." Claymont paces back & fourth in his office reading the report several more times before sitting as his desk and speedily starts writing several letters.

Skirmish on the Western Boarder, of Southern Zakol

General Venn had lead the Expedition force over the boarder into western Iparis with the intent of fighting a guerrilla war with ambushes & hit & run tactics, however shortly having crossed the boarders General Venn was drawn into what was thought to be a small skirmish against boarder guards had escalated in heavy fighting, most of her forces where already engaged in combat when it became apparent they where facing an entire force of Iparis military head on.

Despite the surprise, & being drawn into a direct full on battle the Zakolian forces Lead by Loxa Venn had initially smashed into the enemy like a tidal wave, Iparis forces suffering heavy casualties despite their fearless & fevered efforts in combat. As the fighting raged on however something strange happened on the front lines just as the enemy was getting slowly pushed back, wounded survivors of which where being dragged back to safety for aid telling stories of extremely bright flashes of blinding lights & tales of what seemed like angels, heavenly warriors descending from the skies fighting against them aiding the forces of Iparis.

A messanger ran over to General Venn "Mam!, our forces in the thick of the fighting on the front-lines are starting to take heavy casualties!" Not wasting a moment General Venn grinned as she took her prized great sword from the three personal aids carrying it, as she gathered her personal entourage to join the battle "Alright kids!, lets go join the fight!, i'm getting board back here!, Lt.general Grumret! you have command here" General Venn took off to lead a devastating rallying charge at the front-lines, her presence for a time was working in rallying Zakols forces in the fierce battle, when a low echoing boom sounded a short while later the ground near general Venn exploded killing her near by troops & sending her flying back through the air several feet her ears ringing as she stared up at the sky. After a few seconds some troops ran over to aid her & help her up their voices becoming clearer as the ringing in her ears dulled down, as a dozen or so more low echoing booms began sounding almost in rhythm, Loxa Venn looked around only to see groups of her forces abruptly explode as the earth itself seemingly shot up from the ground.

Over all the Chaos & shouting several Signaling horns begn bellowing from the command station at the rear sounding a full-organised retreat as more of the battlefield kept exploding as the air echo'd with a mix of low distant boom sounded & the loud bellows of battle horns rang throughout the battlefield. "Get back! Everyone Fall back!" Venn shouted at the top of her lungs her forces now falling back, squad stopping & turning to cover the retreat of other squads who then did the same as the Zakolian army promptly pulled back as the battlefield seemed to erupt around them.

Loxa Venn seeing some over-zealous Iparis forces preparing to make chase while others of their comrades worryingly held back not wanting to risk moving into the area where the ground was exploding held back. only a pocket of the Iparis forces broke rank to charge to which General Venn Slashed her great sword across the ground infront of her as if drawing a line before she them slammed it into the ground and gave out a mighty battle cry that sounded over all the noise across the battlefield the sight & sound of which seemed to actually halt the pursuers, after a few moments stareing each-other down some troops ran back to support Venn as she plucked her sword from the ground and slowly began to fall back the Iparis forces doing the same as they'd almost walked into the area where the ground was explodeing around them.

The expeditionary force began its slow march back over the boarder having lost the momentum & suffered some losses from the engagement. Iparis also having suffered heavily themselves decided to pull back & leave things as they stood. Genral Venn finally found the command unit "Grumret! good job timely organizing the retreat, do you know what happened after i took to the field?" The elderly officer nodded "One of our human magi said it was a metal ship called an ironclodd? firing .....On..ns?...Onions!...? from offshore!" General Venn looked at the elderly ogre in confusion when the magi stepped forward "S-sorry mam!, he means an ironclad was firing Cannons from the coast" Venn nodded at the human "thank you magi!, ive heard of these cannons a rather recent invention i believe", the human tried not to smile when he noticed the ogre was being Ernest "I wouldn't say recent they've been... never mind ma'm not important", the human vanished into the ranks not wanting to insult how behind the times Zakols forces where becoming compared to some of the more advanced kingdoms in Alria.

General Venn shouted to some of the logistical staff "Bring me paper, ink & qill i need to get a message to the main force of whats occurred immediately!" Some of the people took off gathering the things as well as a messenger bird as the worry as to whats happened with the main force under the princesses command.

Assault over the Southern Boarder, of South Zakol

Princess Yui Wolph lead the main force herself attacking Central Iparis, again not long after having crossed the boarders Zakolian forces found themselves up against the full military might of Iparis forces in their central Provence. It was only a few hours before Zakols main force was fully engaged in combat with the same initial prowess & success as they hammered into the enemy with torrential force.

The Magi worked in co-ordination with the infantry & cavalry hammering the enemy troops or hemming them into areas where Zakol could control the flow of battle Zakolian forces surprisingly suffering small casualties compared to the overwhelmingly heavy casualties Iparis forces where suffering in the valiant defense of their lands.

A human female War-magi stood near the signal operators at the command unit in the rear helping guide the flow of the battle helping Zakols troops react to potential weaknesses in advance or exploit vulnerabilities in the enemes lines before they noticed. Princess Yui stood watching over the battle her demeanor to any around her seemed like it was as if she was upset or depressed, reluctant of the actions she's taken. When Ozma Torth appeared at her side "Yui, it'll be bad for moral if you don't seem more resolute" Yui nodded and tried to suppress her thoughts returning her attention to the battle, walking over to her officers & the signal staff Torth following closely behind as she did so.

The Female war-Magi noticing the princesses approach spoke up "Your highness! we have everything in hand, you needn't worry yourself further..." Yui cut her off "No, i'm fine now lucretia but thank you for your concern, However!, we do have a war win, and to do it we need to promptly put an end to this minor conflict!". Yui walked over to a roughly surveyed map of the area "Right everyone gather round" Princess Wolph Gave her officers the details of her plan to finish the enemy forces in central Iparis.

A short while afterwards Zakols forces cheered, shouted and cried out in zealous celebration when Princess Yui herself charged into the battle with her elite bodyguards their combined overwhelming power, speed, & magic cutting swaths through what was left of the enemy forces, while the rest of the main force rallied behind her each solider fighting like a demon possessed to ensure their princesses well-being. The battle soon ended as the remnants of Iparis's forces scattered & fled from the overwhelming onslaught of Zakols main force.

Princess Yui after passing ranks upon ranks of cheering troops on her way back to the command unit, a messenger ran over to her "Your highness a letter from General Venn has arrived!" Yui read it as her face betrayed a mix of sadness & relief, Torth whispering to her "Is everything ok?" Yui nodded "Venn was forced to retreat but she's fine as are most of her forces Iparis was hit hard unable to pursue them... i'm glad they're ok but it's a serious set-back to my plan". Yui continued onward to the command tent lost in thought as casualty reports poured in her officers debating what to do with prisoners & wounded Iparis soldiers.

Yui Wolph spoke up "What's there to debate?! we have our duty & Zakols ideals to live-up to!" her officers fell silent as they turned to face her as she continued "get medical treatment to all of the wounded, i want all prisoners disarmed & put under guard, see to it they're treated fairly & fed proper!, Have any of our still capable forces immediately prepare to move out to secure & occupy all towns & villages in the Provence from looters & bandits seeking to profit from the confusion of the battles aftermath... and find a messenger willing to volunteer to take a message to the ruler of Iparis under a white flag of truce, any further senseless slaughter will only weaken both our kingdoms if this continues... i just hope Iparis will see reason in this as well especially since we never took the west". Her officers smiled at the conviction their ruler displayed and set about their duties.

Battle of Lesai Plains, Northern Zakol

To the north General Mokur gathered what troops where left in the north to defend against the invading Quaris forces from the north their army having already crossed the boarder the previous day messengers getting ahead of them to give Mokur some advance warning of their attack & direction which he relayed to the capital before moving to intercept the invader, his gathered forces setting up on the southern end of the Lesai plains.

Knowing he was likely outnumbered General Mokur adopted a defensive strategy his troops, engineers, and sappers hard at work setting up a central command platform, traps, pyres, anti-cavalry defenses, & the trebuchets in advance as he arranged his forces formations and discussed tactics with his officers & Magi.

Some hours later what seemed to be the full military might of the Holy Empire of Quaris marched from the northern end of the Lesai plains, massed loud hymns & prayers as their close-minded fanatical troops advanced their holy banners flying high & musicians playing to the march. As the enemy where still far in the distance Mokur Gave a booming speech to his troops who where witnessing this sight of the force approaching them. "The eyes of Zakol fall upon us on this day!, We must make our people proud that we are their defenders!, and more than that Our old gods watch over us on this day against these zealots and their young-ling god who's intolerant to all except their own people!, These Opportunistic bastards cowardly seek to stab our ruler, Your princess in the back as she is busy dealing with issues to the south, show them no mercy! give them no quarter! send these lowly fuckers to either their god or back from where they came!, For Zakol!, For the Wolphs!".

The outnumbered Zakol forces gave a mighty cheer and stood proudly & resolute against the overwhelmingly large enemy force, As Quaris advanced into range Mokur gave the order to his artillery, The trebuchets opened fire raining fire & stone upon the massed ranks of the Quaris infantry taking huge chunks out of their lines, however they continued on as more zealots filled in the gaps in their formations each time one was created. Despite the enemy infantry not slowing Mokur was forced into attempting the next phase of the plan, a unit of Javelin ogres marched alone ahead of the formation exposing the formations weak center & the command base General Mokur was leading from, as Zakolian magi subtly made the wind direction on the battlefield blow towards the enemy.

Taking the bait of the isolated unit Quaris elite Cavalry broke formation to charge down the easy target, the javelin Ogres feigning to panic began their retreat towards the center of Mokurs defensive formation to lure them in despite straining every muscle as they tried to fall back the through-bred war horses of the enemy cavalry fanatically closed the distance unable to out run them the javelin Ogres knowing what was at stake turned to face them in a desperate attempt to take some of the enemy with them as they flung their javelins or used them as spears, just as the enemy cavalry decended on them.

Utterly annihilated by the overwhelming numbers of enemy Cavalry, who then pressed on towards the weakness in the Zakolian formations center with frenzied zeal, however a third of which hung back desperately & cruelty seeking for any wounded survivors of the Ogre javelin unit to murder them in cold blood. Despite this they unit had mostly succeeded in their task as two thirds of the enemy's Cavalry charged into the center gap where the trap sprung Several rows of fenced stakes shot upwards out of the ground which the speed & deadly momentum of the enemy's cavalry couldn't avoid flew into causing horse & rider to be skewered or trampled over by their allies following behind & falling to the same fate, As Zakols KragFang Cavalry had circled from a hidden position around the formation to come up from behind closing off any retreat as the infantry formations to the flanks closed in around them, ahead two full units of heavy infantry now forming up in front of the command platform encircling the dismounted enemy cavalry. Unfortunately Noticing this the remaining third of the enemy Cavalry with wanton-abandon charged into the rear of the Kragfang cavalry pinning them against their own forces spike trap & the fanatical merciless blood-lust of the Quaris surviving cavalry resulting in a bloody & frenzied battle in the of the defensive formation.

After some considerable losses & the Kragfang cavalry being practically wiped out due to a tactical error in judgement General Mokurs forces had managed to defeat the last remnants of Quaris's Elite Cavalry, however they'd barely reformed in time as the main bulk of the invading army had closed the distance, it wasn't long before the entirety of Mokurs force was fully engaged in merciless combat, the desperately pitched battle was still going strongly against Zakols forces as their lines where being spread thin to combat the enemies numbers while many casualties fell to the enemies zealous warriors who's blood lust, & lethality was matched by their apparent desire to die in battle like martyrs.

The two forces continued fighting a bloody & merciless battle, both refusing to give in despite the losses as bodies piled on bodies, where used as stepping stones by more combatants refusing to yield to their enemy. The battle drew on mercilessly as wave upon wave of troops kept clashing with each-other however Zakols thinning defense line was slowly being pushed back by the invaders martial & numerical might. Mokurs Chief war-Magi appeared at his side as the wind had picked up in strength "Sir!, the majority of the enemies forces are still near where the traps with peat are!, however we move or they push us back any further it'll be to late!". Mokur Watched the battle before him his forces pressed to their limit as he waved his Entourage together as he grabbed his warhammer & tower shield. "Try and only have your magi ignite the traps where the enemy forces are most concentrated in number, im going to try and rally our troops to hold the line!". With that Mokur charged into the thick of the fighting over all the noise & chaod his booming voice carried over the battlefield "For the Wolphs! for Zakol!!!" After which Mokur displayed his prowess & might fully living up to his title as the 'shield of Zakol' taking on eight to ten enemy warriors at once hammering into them with unnatural strength.

The Fire traps ignited with overwhelming force the flames lashing out wildly engulfing entire lines of infantry however they grew rapidly out of control fueled by the ferocious winds that had picked up they did spread northward however the battle lines where so heavily entangled many Zakolian troops also got caught in the ferocious blaze that engulfed the battlefield Mokur himself was grabbed & thrown back by one of his men just before where he'd been standing went up in gushes of flame.

Both forces scrambled to get away from the fire & reform however from the extensive fighting & the wild fire that had spread over a vast majority of the battlefield both forces suffered Extremely heavy casualties... Despite this General Mokur had managed to recover a small amount of his exhausted forces hastily reforming them near the Command platform as the surviving Magi utilized their earth magics to douse or halt any spread of the fires towards their own forces, the troops from the Holy Empire of Quaris weren't so lucky the fire & wind direction had entirely engulfed their invading military force from the lowliest foot-solider to the highest of their ranking officers. The Quaris forces where entirely annihilated in the battle on the Lesai plains, However Mokur and his forces had little to cheer about as they where exhausted from the fighting, their heavy losses during the bloody battle not to mention the unfortunate warriors caught in the the fires, It was a pyrrhic victory at best, but according to Zakols populous & the politicians it was a victory regardless!.

To General Mokur however he couldn't consider it anything other than a resounding defeat as the forces under his command where so drastically depleted by Quaris's merciless & unprovoked surprise attack they where practically crippled from attempting any form of retaliation.

Town of Eagrose, Mandalia Provence (27) - Formally Central Iparis

Several Days after the battle the military force under Princess Yui Wolph set up headquarters in the North-central town of Eagrose from where they coordinate their efforts for the province,an officer arrives at the newly occupied garrison with the volunteer the princess requested "Your highness This man is willing to ride under the flag of truce to the ruler of Iparis for you". Yui walked over to them "thank you, for volunteering for this important task-", The excited messagner eagerly cut in "No-No problem your highness! i'its truely an honor i-infact i had to w-win a lottery to g-get this incredible chance to serve you in this task your excellency! i couldn't believe how luc-" The officer cut in "sorry mam when i asked for volunteers i near had a riot on my hands, of loyal subjects wishing to serve i had to resort to a lottery before i got trampled to death..." the officer smiled Yui almost burst into laughter "Oh, My! No, i assure you i'm the one honored that i have to many loyal retainers, Now please i entrust you with delivering this letter to the ruler of Iparis, It's of utter importance and i need it done as soon as possible!".

The Eager messenger took the letter forgetting himself "What's it fo-.. sorry!" Yui waved his worry away with her hand "I'm going ahead with what i intended to do from the start, i'm asking for peace", She stood there with a smile as everyone in the room around her stopped in silence surprised by what she'd said.

Meanwhile outside the garrison the War-Magi Lucretia was sitting at a wooden desk beside, a scribe, a diplomat under lord Claymont, & the mayor of Eagrose, (not to mention the guards, clerical, & logistical staff around them as well) sorting through various paperwork, while conducting trials & hearing the requests of the provinces people. a group of men held under guard were brought before them at the table as Lucretia spoke up "So... more bandits, your group tried to raid & pillage the farming village of Zlille?, Zelle?" The mayor cut in "Zle, Miss the 'e' is silent". Lucretia nodded in appreciation "Zle!, seeking to take advantage of innocents in the confusion of the battle few days past, i see no need for leniency with people such as you lot!, hmmm... six years hard labor under guard at a state rock quarry, where you will have time to reflect on your actions & learn through hard work on how to earn an honest days meal, which the innocent farmers of Zle toil for every year!".

The bandit leader went to protest as did his followers when Lucretia cut him off "If your unhappy with this option there's another..." She made an axe motion with her hand hitting softly against the side of her neck while staring straight at the bandits eyes, to which a patch on the front of the bandit leaders pants changed to a darker & wetter shade from before as he whispered under his breath "Quarry's fine with us.." as he hung his head and was led away to the cells.

"Next!" a middle aged man who looked half-starved as his shirt barely clung to his shoulders, was brought forward by another guard "Caught stealing food from the garrison supply warehouse shortly before our forces arrived in Eagrose" the scribe spoke up introducing the charges against the prisoner Lucretia just sat looking at the man waiting for his to talk as he did "Please forgive me, but My family's had nothing to eat for the past few days! my family needs to eat! arrest me but please give my family something i beg of you!". Lucretia turned to look at the mayor who explained "before the battle Iparis soldiers came through gathering up any able bodied troops & volunteers while appropriating the towns foodstuffs for the army's supplies as they gathered for the upcoming battle... Its not un-". Claymonts diplomat spoke up "It's not uncommon with most kingdoms when marshaling forces the nearest towns, farms, & villages to them are picked bare to supply a hastily gathered force especially if its numbers exceed predictions... As usual it's the common people who suffer the most in silence".

Lucretia has a whispered discussion with some logistical staff finding out Rahmas & Claymont had seen to the Zakolian armies being well (if not overly) supplied along with additional shipments of grain from lord Claymont apparently part of a gift from an allied kingdom. "Your free to go, as far as food is concerned each family will start being issued rations daily to get by on as transport & trade routes are re-established so that basic infrastructure can be set up to get things back on track!" The prisoner stood happy at being released but then got totally lost by Lucretias words when the mayor cut in "Everyone's getting food each day per family until everything's back to normal!" The man fell to his knees thanking for their generosity the guards having to practically carry him away for things to proceed.

Later in the afternoon...

The messenger that had been sent out earlier that day had sped back, his horse almost collapsed over dead from exhaustion as it had ridden so far in a few hours, as he raced towards the garrison on foot to deliver the reply from the ruler of Iparis to Princess Wolph, Only A few minuets later another messenger arrived from the capital with news of what transpired back home to the north of Zakol.

Actions

> Diplomacy
- The Kingdom of Zakol officially joins & commits to the 'Northern Alliance' established by the kingdoms of Tushienia & Andinon. Zakol offering what resources they can to future endeavors of the alliance.

- Zakol & Iparis make peace & form an agreement with each-other resulting in an unexpected alliance, additionally Iparis hands over control of its eastern most province (28) to Zakol as part of their agreement, which resulted from a heartfelt letter from Princess Yui Wolph. (what it contained & detailed remained between the ruler of Iparis & Princess Wolph.)

- Zakol Formally agrees to peace & non-aggression treaties with the kingdom of Cosab maintaining friendly relations with them.

- Zakol avoids further diplomacy with the Empire of Ubalri the diplomats maintaining a discreet presence however relaying any information on the Lagosami tribes movements, having noted they could be a future concern.

- Although nothing more than a formality at this point, a surprisingly well written & politely worded, declaration of war (filled with subtle insults & veiled threats) was sent from the office of Lord Claymont to Holy Empire of Quaris.

> Military Action
- Souths occupying the new territories, northern forces crippled until reinforced.

> Personnel Transfer
- Expeditionary force redirected to Eastrock.

- 1 unit light inf & 20 units heavy inf transfered from s.Zakol to N.Zakol

> Recruitment
- 1 units light infantry (Ogre) (27) - (Nts: of 3 units)
- 1 units Crossbowmen (human) (25) - (Nts: of 5 units)
- 1 units heavy Cav (Ogre) (18) - (Nts: of 7 units)
- 1 units Heavy infantry (28)

> Naval Construction
- 2 war ships (18)
- 2 war ships (25)

> Research
- Fortitude

Garrisons

North Zakol (18)
-Volaq Mokur
-1 Unit of Light Infantry
-6 Units of Heavy Infantry
-2 Units of Archers
-2 War-Magi
-1 Unit of Magi
-1 unit Heavy Cav
-4 Artillery
South Zakol (25)
- Glasha Yotul - Priestess of the Sun & Moon
- 3 units, Crossbowmen (50)
- 1 units, War Magi
- 1 units, Magi (20)
- 1 units,Trebuchet artillery
Transferred:
- 3 units, Light Infantry (300)
- 40 units, Heavy Infantry (1000)
- 1 unit, Javalin Ogres (50)
Mandalia (27)
-Yui Wolph
-Ozma Torth
-1 Units of Hellfire Banshees
-3 Units of Light Infantry
-30 Units of Heavy Infantry
-2 Units of Archers
-3 Units of War-Magi
-2 Units of Magi
-6 Units of Heavy Cavalry
-3 Units of Artillery

Eastrock (28)
- Loxa Venn
- Grumret
-3 Units of Light Infantry
-6 Units of Heavy Infantry
-2 Units of Archers
-1 Unit of War-Magi (Lucretia Arnet)
-3 units of Heavy Cavalry
-1 Unit of Artillery

Navy Locations
- 9 warships (E12)
- 6 warships (E13)
- 57 transports (Trading/Various)

[Romero]

Autumn of the Year 2717

Death walks through Alria, and none are safe from its ice cold touch. As the Great Shadow pushes ever further into the land, the nations are still at war with each other. Whether they will exhaust their men and weapons on each other and be easy prey for the Darkness is yet to be seen, but winter will bring with it yet more death and blood and war.

New Engelica has rested for the summer, licking its wounds and preparing for the next war. But they have not been idle, mastering the art of Air-Bending; proving that even though war threatens to engulf Alria, the great minds are still at work.

Eerily silent after their resounding victory against their enemy in the Summer, the Confederacy of Sawl sit idle.

Tushienia utilise their full military strength; not only liberating the lands of their allies from the Pualirian Empire but also launching sudden and brutal strikes on the Holy Empire of Quaris. They find many things that surprise them, but claim drive the Holy Empire from two Provinces.

The Broken Empire too licks their wounds and remains relatively idle, no doubt poised to strike as the seasons change.

The fire can be seen for leagues around as the Kingdom of Zakol pays a staggering cost for the defence of their lands against the Holy Empire, but they hold resolute, and new friends found in Iparis see them gain another Province peacefully in the south.

The Republic of Andinon too pays a bloody price for the defence of their borders, but they also join Tushienia in a strike on the Holy Empire that results in an arguably pyrrhic victory.

Seized by a thirst for vengeance, Pankra launches a full-scale and brutal assault on the Union of Blaris, reclaiming their lost land and becoming a nation to be feared.



MAP KEY

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Provinces 1-24

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Province 1 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 2 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 3 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 4 - Pualirian Empire(NPC)
Province 5 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 6 - Republic of Andinon(Eklipse)
Province 7 - Tushienia(Bright_Ops)
Province 8 - Duringis(NPC)
Province 9 - Duringis(NPC)
Province 10 - Tushienia(Bright_Ops)
Province 11 - Tushienia(Bright_Ops)
Province 12 - Tushienia(Bright_Ops)
Province 13 - Undecided Ownership
Province 14 - Republic of Andinon(Eklipse)
Province 15 - Republic of Andinon(Eklipse)
Province 16 - Holy Empire of Quaris(NPC)
Province 17 - Tushienia(Bright_Ops)
Province 18 - Kingdom of Zakol(BlackRose)
Province 19 - Dagrenas(NPC)
Province 20 - Dagrenas(NPC)
Province 21 - Dagrenas(NPC)
Province 22 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 23 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 24 - Lost to the Darkness

Provinces 25-61

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Province 25 - Kingdom of Zakol(BlackRose)
Province 26 - Iparis(NPC)
Province 27 - Kingdom of Zakol(BlackRose)
Province 28 - Kingdom of Zakol(BlackRose)
Province 29 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 30 - Cosab(NPC)
Province 31 - Cosab(NPC)
Province 32 - Cosab(NPC)
Province 33 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 34 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 35 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 36 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 37 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 38 - Empire of Ubalri(NPC)
Province 39 - Bripiak(NPC)
Province 40 - New Gobolia(NPC)
Province 41 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 42 - Iastuf Republic(NPC)
Province 43 - Bripiak(NPC)
Province 44 - Bripiak(NPC)
Province 45 - Bripiak(NPC)
Province 46 - Iastuf Republic(NPC)
Province 47 - The Broken Empire(ForKhorne)
Province 48 - The Broken Empire(ForKhorne)
Province 49 - Limgar(NPC)
Province 50 - Limgar(NPC)
Province 51 - The Broken Empire(ForKhorne)
Province 52 - Limgar(NPC)
Province 53 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 54 - Orngat(NPC)
Province 55 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 56 - Orngat(NPC)
Province 57 - Orngat(NPC)
Province 58 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 59 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 60 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 61 - Broken Empire(ForKhorne)

Provinces 62-70

Hider

Province 62 - Union of Blaris(NPC)
Province 63 - Union of Blaris(NPC)
Province 64 - Pankra(Mardox)
Province 65 - Pankra(Mardox)
Province 66 - The Confederacy of Sawl(Lauder)
Province 67 - The Confederacy of Sawl(Lauder)
Province 68 - Kebriw(NPC)
Province 69 - Kebriw(NPC)
Province 70 - Kebriw(NPC)

[Mardox]

Phaimok, Capital of Pankra Province 65
Pareth the Wrathful stood on a balcony above cheering crowds with his words amplified by the new mage recruits. "People of Pankra! We have reclaimed that which was ours!" At this, the cheering intensified. Pareth frowned for effect and continued. "However, this is not enough!" The crowd quieted down, confused and worried about their leader's apparent mood swing. "Reclaiming the goods a thief has stolen is never punishment enough. Further punishment is needed to teach a thief the error of their ways. And we, my people, have the power to truly punish Blaris! The very dead march for our cause! We do not stand alone either! Our neighbors Kebriw and the Sawlian Confederacy also are foes of Blaris! The pathetic Union shall be crushed utterly! We will march and sail to victory!" Pareth smiled and left the balcony to the cheers of the bloodthirsty populace, how he loved to hear their adoration and gaze upon their occasional fear of him. He left to order a captain to take the new mages to the reclaimed territory along with 240 men-at-arms and 240 Horde Archers. He also penned orders for his campaign army.

Nicrur, Pankran Port City, Province 64
A letter had arrived for the three commanders. Orich read it aloud. "By order of our Supreme Overlord for Life, the Great and Powerful Pareth the Wrathful, the three commanders Admiral Stroblech, General Wildbeard and Archmage Orich are to take their forces and conquer the Southern Isle belonging to Blaris using the same tactics as before. In addition, they are to send a scouting force to Blaris's Northern Isle to discern the forces that wait there. Lastly, a suitable governor is to be installed in Nicrur to oversee the training of new war-magi and warships. Signed, Pareth the Wrathful." Orich closed the scroll and looked at the others. "Well gentlemen, we have our orders. As His Majesty's most senior commander and advisor, I shall install the governor from among the liberated populace. You, Stroblech will ready the ships and you, Wildbeard will ready the soldiers." The three went their separate ways with "Wildbeard" hating his new moniker more and more, his name was Mordvaal Staunchblood by the Twelve Pits of Darkness!

Later, Orich found the perfect candidate for the position of governor. A goblin aristocrat from the days when Pankra had been a weak-willed democracy with figurehead nobility. The goblin's name was Camicia Silverblood and she was one of the nobles who not had given up on the distant past where the nobility were supreme and had gone into politics. Previously, the democracy had hindered her ability to act ruthlessly and efficiently when Blaris invaded but now that Pareth had risen and claimed the dusty, ceremonial throne that had long been stashed away in some museum, she would be quite loyal and effective... As long as she had the privilege and authority over her charges she felt a noblewoman should have. Orich, not having time to waste answering questions, dropped a hastily written letter bearing Pareth's seal with a servant to notify her of her good fortune.

Actions

Orders
Navy is to transport 15 war-magi, 10 artillery, 750 Berserkers (heavy infantry), 3000 Skirmishers (Light infantry), 1000 Archers, 1000 Raiders (light cavalry), 200 Black Knights (heavy cavalry), 1700 Men-at-arms (conscript infantry), 1700 Horde Archers (conscript Archers) all to 63.
War-magi will then conjure 15000 Dead Legionnaires (conscript undead, even mix of infantry and archers) who will charge into the province.

Scouts dispatched to 62.

One Magi unit, 240 men-at-arms (conscript infantry) and 240 Horde Archers (conscript archers) to 64 as garrison.

Recruitment
Province 65:
1 Transport ship unit
1 Heavy Infantry unit
Province 64:
1 Ship unit
1 War-magi unit

Research: Lesser Air Magic (Turn 2)

Garrison

Province 65:
73,060 Men-At-Arms (conscript infantry)
73,060 Horde Archers (conscript archers)
5 artillery
Province 64:
240 Men-at-arms
240 Horde Archers
20 Dark Initiates (Magi)

[Eklispe]

Province 13
Alfred Granious bellowed orders that rang out and they were hastily followed. They had won a battle not the war, and even that was disputable considering the grievous losses they'd sustained. He had been in the front lines of the invasion into province 13. They were supposed to flank the enemy army under illusions and end the battle in moments. Instead nearly all of his royal guard had been slaughtered by the sudden appearance of the heavy cavalry, only his personal unit surviving the encounter, causing the fight to instead be a terrible drawn out battle to the death with those zealots. Somehow the cavalry had slipped past the war magi with powerful magics of their own. The holy empire would be eliminated, Alfred would personally guarantee it.

---

Province 15
Ariana signed off on the last of the orders for the day. Armies were needed to reinforce their newfound land and the lands of Dagrenas needed to be dealt with. If they were in the same disarray they were when diplomats had been sent they would simply be easy prey for the Great Shadow. Allies or Enemies, in-between was rapidly vanishing as an option. At least Duringis had been more than willing to ally with them, combine with their other friends a powerful alliance was quickly forming. However, if Dagrenas could not control their lands and wouldn't join the alliance someone would have to do it for them. Reports were the Pualirian Empire were almost overwhelmed by the Great Shadow already and would doubtless be planning one last ditch attack. Tempting as it would be to attack back, the fourth province would almost certainly be overwhelmed in the coming season and no invasion force could secure it in time. Already the Great Shadow was within striking range of the kingdom of Andinon and they weren't ready yet.

Actions

-Agree to an alliance with Duringis

-Take control of province 13 and immediately began recruiting.

-Send Spies to determine strength of provinces 19-20-21

-Move 10 units of Harriers from province 15 -> 13

-Prepare 76 units of Dirgibles, 1 unit of magi, 9 units of harriers and 1 unit of war magi for joint assault on province 16.

-4 units of royal guard and 10 war magi from province 15 for joint assault on province 16

-Move 10 ballista from province 15 -> 6

-Research Superior Forging Turn 3

Units

Recruit 1 Dirigible in all provinces.
Recruit 1 Ballista in province 15.
Recruit 1 Heavy Infantry in province 14
Recruit 1 Heavy Infantry in province 6
Recruit 1 Heavy Infantry in province 13

Garrison of Province 14
-6 unit of War Magi
-5 units of Harriers
-1 unit of Storm Shadows
-5 unit of Ballista
-4 units of Royal Guard
-1 Dirigibles

Garrison of Province 6
-13 War Magi
-9 units of Harriers
-15 units of Storm Shadows
-2 units of Artillery
-12 units of Royal Guard
-10 Ballista
-1 Dirigible

Garrison of Province 15
-20 units of War Magi
-10 units of Harriers
-10 units of Storm Shadows
-5 units of Royal Guard
-1 Dirigibles

Armies in province 13
-3 War Magi
-10 Units of Light Cavalry
-7 Units of Magi
-1 Units of Heavy Infantry

Armies attacking province 16
-76 Fast Dirigibles
-1 Units of Magi
-11 War Magi
-4 Units of Heavy Infantry
-9 Units of Light Cavalry

[Bright_Ops]

Province 7
With the surrender of the solders of the Puralirian Empire with the promise of fair treatment and being accepted as citizens of Tushienia, the forces in Province 7 quickly begin to dig in and fortify its new holdings while the there was still a chance; They were now on a brand new front line and they needed to be ready! Defensive walls of rock were raised, moats of water were created and a deep ravines were torn into the earth itself in order to give the defenders defensive position after defensive position to fall back to in order to prep themselves against the coming tide of darkness that was going right for them.

Even as the Puralirian refugees were being escorted out of the province towards Tushienia proper in order to undergo assimilation and if need be re-education, a last minute recruitment drive was started to try and get as prepared as possible for the coming storm...

Province 17
While some lives had been lost in order to claim the province, it had been less of a battle and more of a trap designed to lure an army away from a different front; It would seem that the zealots had somehow made friends with powerful illusionists. Despite this surprise, once enough forces had been left behind to ensure that the province remained protected while the resettlement operations began and any remaining zealots were rounded up in camps, the march on the last holdout of their dying empire would begin!

Actions

Recruitment and Training:
1 x Light Infantry - Province 7
1 x Light Infantry - Province 10
1 x Light Infantry - Province 11
1 x Light Infantry - Province 12
1 x Light Infantry - Province 17

7 War-Magi, 26 Units of Magi, 4 Cannons, 6 Units of Archers, 15 Units of Heavy Infantry, 3 Units of Arquebusiers from Province 17 to Province 16 for joint assault.

4 War-Magi, 17 Units of Magi, 3 Cannons, 4 Units of Archers, 7 Units of Heavy Infantry, 2 Units of Arquebusiers from Province 13 to Province 16.

In Province 7: Necromancers summon 1600 skeleton light infantry, 9000 skeleton archers and 6 wrathbound cannons.

Research: Trains - Turn 2

Garrisons

7:
6 War Magi
25 Magi
2 Cannons
2 Archers
8 Heavy Infantry
2 Arquebusiers

10:
2 Archers
3 Heavy Infantry

11:
2 Archers
5 Heavy Infantry

12:
2 Mages
4 Heavy Infantry
1 Arquebusiers

17:
2 Magi
2 Archers
2 Heavy Infantry

[Legion02]

Province 53
The news was dire. Roar of engines in the clouds and walking hunks of metal. While Eléane’s scouting was pretty thorough, some would still wanted more information. Information she couldn’t provide. She stood in the middle of a circular room. Once a temple of the gods of the fallen Holy Lands. The statue for each god had been torn down. Instead a chair was placed, upon which now the older, stronger War-magi sat. After her report, a mere ceremony as everyone had seen a copy of it already, was presented she took up her own chair in the circle. Once again, Alec was silent while the War-Magi among them burst into a murmur. Men and armor they could handle. But marching against a foe they did not know would be suicide. Some started to fear that the agreement they made with the Broken Empire would stretch their troops too thin. They began to suspect that this was the aim of the Broken Empire all along. But it was Alec, who silenced them: “I gave my promise to the dwarven people of the Broken Empire. I will not return on that promise! Dare not say such vile words about betrayal again.” Many wouldn’t say it to his face, but Alec Bredain had been changing the last year. He was once a gentle spirit. But the battle against the Holy Lands changed him. Made him hunger for conquest. He sat back down into his chair. Only then did a lone, small elf step forward. He was once a minor noble of the Holy Empire. Yet now elevated to the rank of Assistant Governor and left to deal with the day to day tasks within the province. His presence within the council was but a formality. Yet he would prove to be useful none the less. “If I may, great lords. These hulking men of metal. I have seen such things before. The Broken Empire used them conquer this land. Once the battle was over, I saw how they filled these machines with water.” This was good information. While the elf could not say how the things worked exactly, one could guess that the contraptions could share certain similarities.

The day of the march came once everyone settled on a tactic. Mages of water were to challenge the marching metal warriors and see if the water (and steam) within them could be frozen, so the machines would stop right in their tracks. As for the roar of engines in the clouds, nobody knew what it could be. Never the less, it was up in the skies. And even those could be commanded by magic. Thus upon the day of the march, mages began to convert the clouds steadily but surely. Over the course of days, weather examiners of Orngat, Limgar and the Broken Empire would see strange movement of the clouds. Every day they’d be pulled towards the same point. Maybe even the outposts on the border of the Broken Empire with New Engelica, as well as the outposts on the border of Limgar and New Engelica would see, in time, a dark converging storm. The people of New Engelica were reading to fight with the Mage Tempest above them.

My Actions

Garrison
Province 58
- 5 Units of Heavy Infantry
- 5 Units of Light Cavalry
- 4 Units of Magi
- 6 Units of War-Magi

Province 59
- 3 Units of Light Infantry
- 6 Units of Heavy Infantry
- 5 Units of Light Cavalry
- 6 Units of Magi
- 5 Units of War-Magi

Province 60
- 2 Units of Light Infantry
- 4 Units of Heavy Infantry
- 7 Units of Magi
- 4 Units of War-Magi

Province 55
- 2 Units of Light Infantry
- 5 Units of Heavy Infantry
- 5 Units of Magi
- 6 Units of War-Magi

Province 53
- 4 Units of Heavy Infantry
- 5 Units of Magi

Troop movement
From 53 to 52 - Conquer intent
- 20 Units of Heavy Infantry
- 4 Units of Light Cavalry
- 35 Units of Magi
- 26 Units of War-Magi

From 55 to 53 - Garrison reinforcements
- 5 Units of Heavy Infantry

From 58 to 55 - Garrison reinforcements
- 4 Units of Heavy Infantry
- 5 Units of War-Magi

Production
Province 58: Magi
Province 59: Magi
Province 60: Magi
Province 55: Light Infantry
Province 53: Light Infantry

Research
Dirigibles

[ForKhorne]

The Great Axe hissed through the air with practiced grace as Mylori laughed. He felt incomplete without a weapon in his hand, and his Great Axe had become as much a part of him as his own arm. He moved naturally, with a fluency that did not match his Dwarvish frame. The honed blade connected with the last surviving border guard with a sicking crunch as the metal crumpled flesh and bone. Wiping the crimson blood from his face, the Forgelord spat into the freshly fallen snow.

Turning back towards the broken camp where the Limgar border guards had been huddling against the coming cold, Mylori took in the scene. The snow had been stained red by Limgar blood. Two of the guards had fallen where they sat, hands not even reaching their weapons before they were forcefully separated from their life. The final one had managed to bolt, at least until Mylori caught him and silenced him from alerting the garrison. The small group of Hammerbearer's that had accompanied Mylori were searching the camp and ensuring that they were not caught off guard by any passing patrols. Mylori never felt more at home than he did on the battlefield, and he took a moment to look east to where he knew Tavirin was marching against a new foe with a quick and small detachment. He hoped that he would see the aged Forgelord again soon, but until then he must put up with Narrik.

As soon as he thought of the Dwarf, he felt a chill run down the back of his neck and a familiar stench filled the air, the rot of death cutting across the acrid smell of freshly spilled blood. Turning towards the gathering shadows at the center of the camp, Mylori wasn't surprised to see Warlock Ronaz'Thunk stride into the camp, flanked by the inevitable detachment of Lichguard. Mylori wasn't the only Dwarf in the camp to tighten his grip on his weapon as the Hammerbearer's shifted, uncomfortable of these new arrivals. Walking by the side of the Orcish Warlock was the Dwarf that Mylori most detested seeing, the third Forgelord, Narrik Deadheart.

Clad in black armour disturbingly similar to the armour donned by the Warlocks and their Lichguard, Narrik was a sight that turned Mylori's stomach more than the horrors of war ever could. Even when he spoke, his voice rang with the rattling tone of the Warlocks.

"Greeting Forgelord Mylori! I am glad to see that you have returned to us"

Mylori forced down the retch as he met eyes with his fellow Forgelord, and he could swear that the Dwarves eyes were darkening, but before he could be sure, or even reply, it was the Warlock, Ronaz'Thunk, that spoke.

"I had heard that you would not survive Dwarf"

At that Mylori allowed himself a smile. If it weren't for the Lichguard gathered around him, the Forgelord doubted tha the would have stopped himself for striking the Warlock for that insolence.

"Obviously your informants misjudged me Orc. It was just a scratch I assure you"

Seemingly deaf to the Dwarves words, Ronaz'Thunk moved over to the corpse of one of the border guard, looking down at the deep slash across the man's neck, blood still seeping out to stain the snow.

"This one will do"

Before any present could question his intentions, the Warlock closed his eyes and extended his hands towards the corpse. The air grew chill, and Mylori could only watch in stunned silence as the corpse began to writhe on the floor, movements awkward and inhuman. Slowly rising till it was a few inches above the ground, the corpse's eyes shot open, bloodshot but lifeless as they stared up at the Warlock.

"Where is the garrison located in this province?"

The corpse twitched and as it opened it's mouth, blood spilled forth and a horrific retching sound issued forth. Words could be made out in the retching, and Mylori watched as it answered the Warlock.

"Marching...East...Along...Coast"

Satisfied with what he had heard, the Warlocks eyes snapped open and the corpse dropped to the ground, limp once more as blood dripped from it's mouth onto the snow, so soaked with blood it was little more than slush. The Warlock turned away and was already striding away, quickly followed by Narrik and it's contingent of Lichguard, before it spoke to Mylori.

"We march for the coast. Gather your men Forgelord"

And so the small group of Dwarves were left where they had been before, alone in a broken camp with three dead men, although one didn't seem to totally understand being dead. Mylori was in shocked silence for a few seconds before gathering himself.

"We're heading back to the main camp, prepare for marching at dawn"

Wrenching his Great Axe free from the corpse it was still embedded in, Mylori set off after his men. He had pushed hard to reach this Province in time to lead the offensive, and would not allow that cursed Orc to beat him to the battle.

Garrison

Hider

Province 61
-3 Heavy Infantry Units
-4 Artillery Units
-10 Mechanical Warriors Units
-1 Mechanical Walkers Units
-12 War-Magi Units

Province 51
-5 Heavy Infantry Units
-7 Artillery Units
-32 Mechanical Warriors Units
-9 Mechanical Walkers Units
-40 War-Magi Units

Province 48
-5 Heavy Infantry Units
-5 Artillery Units
-5 Mechanical Warriors Units
-6 Mechanical Walkers Units
-13 War-Magi Units

Province 47
-5 Heavy Infantry Units
-5 Artillery Units
-5 Mechanical Warriors Units
-5 Mechanical Walkers Units
-14 War-Magi Units

Actions

Hider

5 Heavy Infantry Units, 5 Artillery Units, 5 Mechanical Warriors Units, 6 Mechanical Walkers Units and 13 War-Magi Units move from Province 48 into Province 49

5 Heavy Infantry Units, 5 Artillery Units, 5 Mechanical Warriors Units, 5 Mechanical Walkers Units and 14 War-Magi Units move from Province 47 into Province 46

10 Mechanical Warrior Units and 15 War-Magi Units move from Province 51 into Province 48

10 Mechanical Warrior Units and 15 War-Magi Units move from Province 51 into Province 47

Recruitment

Hider

Province 61
1 War-Magi Units

Province 51
1 War-Magi Units

Province 48
1 War-Magi Units

Province 47
1 War-Magi Unit

Research
Lesser Earth Magic (Turn 2)

[BlackRose]

Kingdom Of Zakol

Hakurei, capitol of Zakol

After another of the councils heated arguments on what should be done, Rahmas & Claymont proved to be the only voices of calm & reason managing to quell matters before they got out of hand, another issue Rahmas had to face on top of this was, General Mokur despite the results of the previous battle he was bloodthirsty and seeking revenge for the invasion, it was taking countless letters back and forth trying to reason with the stubborn ogre, the fact that Claymont refused to help either side on this matter only made it more stressful on one side the forces north needed to reorganize, on the other Claymont promised Zakol would aid their allies against their enemy.

Meanwhile Glasha Yotul was attending to the deployment & logistics of the military & supplies being dispatched from the capital with some minor help from Rahmas & Claymont.

Encampment south of Lesai plains, Northern Zakol

Countless days have passed since the battle but the soldiers & laborers where still working tirelessly reorganizing supplies & burying the numerous dead. Zakolian dead where being carried away ceremoniously treated with the utmost respect & prepared for a military funeral.

The treatment of the equally numerous Quaris dead however was a different matter the sheer resentment that was felt towards them for the unprovoked invasion ran deep, Their dead where collected up their eyes where gouged out, tongues removed, & ears, hands & feet where hacked off & they where dumped into one mass grave pit. Zakolians believed by doing this in the after-life all will know these deformed monsters for what they where and not in their whole human form, if they where granted such peace at all... It was a final last ditch effort to deny the Quaris fanatics access to their heaven for which they fought for.

Zakol has always stood against such barbaric acts, believing all life & death should be treated fairly with respect, but under the enraged General Mokur such injustice has gone on unimpeded, with others of note & authority elsewhere none where available to put a stop to it. That said it was probably one of the few things that was helping keep Mokur in check from leading a counter-invasion instead of waiting for reinforcements from the south.

Mandalia Provence

With the area now safely under control & peace reestablished, Princess Yui continued to focus her forces efforts on restoration as supplies & trade slowly began to flourish again in the area, but also with a dread of what was coming, they started to recruit volunteers from the populous in an effort to start building what forces they could.

Eastrock Provence

The newly obtained province of Eastrock had been secured by General Venns forces as they where already organized to march when they where repelled at the boarders earlier freeing them up to easily move and secure the province, and after the arrival of Lucretia Arnet having been transferred to oversee domestic matters in the area Eastrock was also secured after it being handed over to Zakols rule. As such eforts here became threefold as forces where being raised from the populous here as well, Naval ships where being constructed & a large ancient defense fortress was being rebuilt near the eastern coast, despite it long having been the ruin of a long forgotten age.

Actions

> Diplomacy
- Allied military request to Iparis to move its advanced naval fleet to [G13] to help defend the eastern coast.

- Claymont starts utilizing some of his more unsavory agents, Spys where to find and report any vital information they could on the Holy Empire of Quaris or rather what was left of it, additionally if any assassins had a good chance of removing any military officers of skill, religious leaders, or the nations ruler they where to proceed but if no guarantee of success to refrain from any actions.

- Large shipments of Zakolian forged weapons & equipment sent to the Republic of Andinon & the Kingdom of Tushienia, as a token of appreciation & to aid with the war effort. (Bonus: Superior Forging, Superior Armor *for 1 turn?*)

- A final message Via pigeon sent to the Lagosami tribes to try and make contact in an attempt to arrange a sit-down to talk peace & negotiate their aid against a far more powerful & mutual enemy that was approaching if their tribal mentality was blood lust and war perhaps a promise of such things might get them to actually agree to speak.

- Agents sent to gather any Intel on the Lagosami, culture, politics, military, etc...

> Military Action
- Refraining from any actions while preparing their forces for future endeavors.

> Personnel Transfer
- 3 warships (E13) > (G13)
- 6 warships (E12) > (G13)

> Recruitment
- 1 units light infantry (27) - (Nts: of 3 units)
- 1 units Crossbowmen (25) - (Nts: of 5 units)
- 1 units heavy Cav (18) - (Nts: of 7 units)
- 1 units Heavy infantry (28)

> Naval Construction
- 2 war ships (18)
- 2 war ships (25)
- 2 war ships (28)

> Research
- Fortitude (turn 2)

Garrisons

North Zakol (18)
-Volaq Mokur
-2 Unit of Light Infantry
-26 Units of Heavy Infantry
-2 Units of Archers
-2 War-Magi
-1 Unit of Magi
-2 unit Heavy Cav
-4 Artillery

South Zakol (25)
- Glasha Yotul - Priestess of the Sun & Moon
- 4 units, Crossbowmen
- 1 units, War Magi
- 1 units, Magi (20)
- 1 units,Trebuchet artillery
- 2 units, Light Infantry
- 20 units, Heavy Infantry
- 1 unit, Javalin Ogres

Mandalia (27)
-Yui Wolph
-Ozma Torth
-1 Units of Hellfire Banshees
-4 Units of Light Infantry
-30 Units of Heavy Infantry
-2 Units of Archers
-3 Units of War-Magi
-2 Units of Magi
-6 Units of Heavy Cavalry
-3 Units of Artillery

Eastrock (28)
- Loxa Venn
- Grumret
-3 Units of Light Infantry
-7 Units of Heavy Infantry
-2 Units of Archers
-1 Unit of War-Magi (Lucretia Arnet)
-3 units of Heavy Cavalry
-1 Unit of Artillery

Navy Locations
- 11 warships (E12)
- 8 warships (E13)
- 57 transports (Trading/Various - Recalled for military service)

[Romero]

Winter of the Year 2717

The icy winds frost armour and freeze swords into their scabbards. Yet despite the biting chill, war continues to engulf Alria. As the nations fight among themselves, the Darkness launches a devastating surprise strike, foul creatures dragging themselves from the seas and falling upon the defenders of Province 31, butchering the defenders to a man. Not only that, but frightened rumors from sailors in the west tell of a shadow coming across the sea.

Fighting against fearsome monsters of metal, the likes of which New Engelica had never seen, beneath the black, stormy skies that hung over Limgar, magical prowess once again won the day. Another Province flew the colours of New Engelica, but a final bastion of Limgar still remained, and it's strength was formidable.

The armies of Tushienia march to war once more against the Holy Empire, but the news sent back to homeland is very different. The province was abandoned. There was no bitter fight as was expected, and so the generals were left to attempt to understand how an entire nation just disappeared, and more importantly where it would reappear.

Launching two full-frontal assaults, the Broken Empire engages in war against two different nations. Marching north, the metal and the undead drive away the machines of their enemies, the Dwarves using their incredible understanding of Mechanical forces to find weak points and exploit weaknesses. And to the East, with aid from their sworn allies Bripiak, they brush aside the last pocket of the Iastuf Republic

The Kingdom of Zakol does not march to war, but they are far from idle, spreading out their influence to try and understand the new threat arising in their surrounding nations, namely the ever-aggressive and expanding Lagosami Tribes, and preparing to combat those threats they cannot peacefully resolve.

Marching with their allies once more, the Republic of Andinon are also shocked at the deserted Province 16, and join Tushienia in trying to understand where the zealous nation has vanished too. Now that the Pualirian Empire has fallen, the Republic must brace itself against the inevitable tide of the Darkness against their borders.

Pankra once again sails to war, and again inflicts a devastating defeat on the Union of Blaris, pushing the aggressive nation further and further back, and coming closer to achieving piece in the islands, although ominous reports from the west suggest that there is a darker threat approaching.



MAP KEY

Hider

Provinces 1-24

Hider

Province 1 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 2 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 3 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 4 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 5 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 6 - Republic of Andinon(Eklipse)
Province 7 - Tushienia(Bright_Ops)
Province 8 - Duringis(NPC)
Province 9 - Duringis(NPC)
Province 10 - Tushienia(Bright_Ops)
Province 11 - Tushienia(Bright_Ops)
Province 12 - Tushienia(Bright_Ops)
Province 13 - Republic of Andinon(Eklipse)
Province 14 - Republic of Andinon(Eklipse)
Province 15 - Republic of Andinon(Eklipse)
Province 16 - Kingdom of Zakol(BlackRose)
Province 17 - Tushienia(Bright_Ops)
Province 18 - Kingdom of Zakol(BlackRose)
Province 19 - Dagrenas(NPC)
Province 20 - Dagrenas(NPC)
Province 21 - Dagrenas(NPC)
Province 22 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 23 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 24 - Lost to the Darkness

Provinces 25-61

Hider

Province 25 - Kingdom of Zakol(BlackRose)
Province 26 - Iparis(NPC)
Province 27 - Kingdom of Zakol(BlackRose)
Province 28 - Kingdom of Zakol(BlackRose)
Province 29 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 30 - Cosab(NPC)
Province 31 - Lost to the Darkness
Province 32 - Cosab(NPC)
Province 33 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 34 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 35 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 36 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 37 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 38 - Empire of Ubalri(NPC)
Province 39 - Bripiak(NPC)
Province 40 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 41 - Lagosami Tribes(NPC)
Province 42 - Bripiak(NPC)
Province 43 - Bripiak(NPC)
Province 44 - Bripiak(NPC)
Province 45 - Bripiak(NPC)
Province 46 - The Broken Empire(ForKhorne)
Province 47 - The Broken Empire(ForKhorne)
Province 48 - The Broken Empire(ForKhorne)
Province 49 - The Broken Empire(ForKhorne)
Province 50 - Limgar(NPC)
Province 51 - The Broken Empire(ForKhorne)
Province 52 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 53 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 54 - Orngat(NPC)
Province 55 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 56 - Orngat(NPC)
Province 57 - Orngat(NPC)
Province 58 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 59 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 60 - New Engelica(Legion02)
Province 61 - Broken Empire(ForKhorne)

Provinces 62-70

Hider

Province 62 - Union of Blaris(NPC)
Province 63 - Pankra(Mardox)
Province 64 - Pankra(Mardox)
Province 65 - Pankra(Mardox)
Province 66 - The Confederacy of Sawl(Lauder)
Province 67 - The Confederacy of Sawl(Lauder)
Province 68 - Kebriw(NPC)
Province 69 - Kebriw(NPC)
Province 70 - Kebriw(NPC)

[Bright_Ops]

Province 17

The march into Province 16 had been launched in an attempt the catch the remaining members of the Holy Empire while they were licking their wounds from a string of defeats... Only to find nothing. For all intents and purposes, the long standing enemy of Tushienia was no more; The province itself was to be offered to their new neighbour Zakol as a show of goodwill to solidify their alliance... And all Tushienia's forces to go to where they were needed instead of getting dragged into another war when the zealots no doubt made a pest of themselves in the future.

For now, the southern army needed to prepare itself to march north.

...........
All over Tushienia.

Progress was coming to Tushienia; during the autumn months, get amounts of steel and iron had been brought and agents had gone out to negotiate the purchase of large tracks of land from landowners in order to lay the foundation for the Unity Railway. Even as the winter snows fell, the living and the dead worked side by side to lay the rails that would bring their kingdom closer then ever.

The railway was not the only thing that was changing though; No one knew if it was the focus on steam or the wars that were being waged, but across the kingdom shamans and magi were nurturing the sparks of fire magic. It would be some time until it would be as powerful as the other schools of magic, but for now it was merely another tool in the magi's arsonal.

..........
Province 7
Even as the winter snows began to set in and the winds began to howl, preparations were being made to withstand a more vile enemy. Inhuman, unalive creatures that defiled the laws of life, death and even undeath had finally began to sneak over the boarder... And they would be met by the combined forces of the living and the dead to contend for ever square meter of ground.

...............
Province 11
The POW's from Province 7 would be welcomed with open arms, offered moderate but welcoming accomidations and plenty of opportunities to find their place in Tushienia society. Education was made avaible to them as well.

However, those families who had at least one member decide to voliteer to serve in their new kingdoms armed forces would find themselves gaining extra benefits; Small things, like shorter waiting lists or access to better tutors.

Actions

Recruitment:
Province 7 = 1 War-Magi
Province 11 = 1 War-Magi
Province 10 = 1 War-Magi
Province 12 = 1 War-Magi
Province 17 = 1 War-Magi

Research = Trains (Turn 3)

The forces is Province 16 will travel to Province 17... Expect for two War-Magi and their magi bodyguards, who will be staying with the Andinon army as supporting units.

POW's and refugees will be accepted into Tushienia... Through those willing to sign on with the military or can provide a special talent or skill set will be given extra perks and bonuses for themselves and their families.

Government traders sent to allied nations.

Magic uses in Province 7 summon 6 Wrathbound cannons, 12 Skeleton Infantry and 13 Skeleton Bowmen to help defend their boarders.

Province 7 takes the time to further dig in and strengthen their defences while ensuring that all solders are drilled in how to move from one defensive position to the next.

Garrsons

Province 7:
6 War-Magi
25 Magi
2 Cannons
2 Archers
8 Heavy Infantry
2 Arquebusers
1 Light Infantry

Province 10:
1 Light Infantry
2 Archers
3 Heavy Infantry

Province 11:
1 Light Infantry
2 Archers
5 Heavy Infantry

Province 12:
1 Light Infantry
2 Magi
4 Heavy Infantry
1 Arquebusers

Province 17:
9 War-Magi
43 Magi
7 Cannons
12 Archers
24 Heavy Infantry
5 Arquebusiers
1 Light Infantry

[Legion02]

The battle

The armies of New Engelica had reached the chosen battlefield. The mechanical warriors the scouts spotted formed a metal wall before the soldiers. And towering constructs reached out towards the skies.

The main force of the Heavy Infantry form their shieldwall. The metal towershields, adorned with old spectacles from the first Mage War line up. Behind them, proud Knights wearing their Mithril armor stand ready to fend off any attacker. In the second line, Magi and War-Magi well versed in the element of water spread out. Ready to use the experimental tactic. The Mage Tempest continues to swirl above, gathering momentum and casting a dark shadow over the battlefield. Rain was not far away. The War-Magi of fire then unleashed their indiscriminate power upon the enemy lines. As redhot balls of fire came crashing down upon the defenders, the Magi and War-Magi specialized in Earth began their spells. A faint rumble could be heard from deep within the ground. A rumble that would soon turn into lesser vibrations of the top soil. Though if allowed to continue, a real quake would rip through the earth. All Magi and War-Magi hid behind their valiant knights as they cast their magics. Counting upon their shields for their protection.

The fireballs crashed into the lines, but seemed to do no damage, the flames simply blackening the metal but not breaking it. As one, the entire defending line began to push forward, however the Magi using water magic worked like a dream, the water freezing in the pipes and the Mechanical Walkers grinding to a halt in the defensive line. The Mechanical Warriors however, driven by an altogether different power source, push on through the hail of fire, drawing closer to your lines.

Seeing the sight of the malfunctioning giants ignited a spark inside of the front line. Who were ready to engage the mechanical beings. In the meantime, rain began to fall from the skies. Inspired by their unexpected success, the mages of water turned the water on the mechanical warriors into ice. Trying to encase them into a frozen prison. In the meantime, the rumble in the ground got louder. Between the two lines small a difference in height began to form. Rocks began to jut out in an attempt to slow and seperate mechanical warriors. Finally, the War-Magi of air began to cast their lightning bolts at both the mechanical warriors advancing and the frozen mechanical walkers to destroy them for good. In the meantime the mages of fire ragged as they saw that the metal was merely blackened by their spells. They began to band together. Casting fire at the same targets. Trying to focus their flames on a center spot to heat it to a melting point.

The Magi and War-Magi tactics have some success, but the sheer unflinching stamina of the Mechanical Warriors means the line does not falter and smashes into your own soldiers in a whirling of metal and flesh. The Heavy Infantry are holding, but taking heavy losses.

The light cavalry curves around the main shield wall. The line in the middle starts to retreat a little, making a bowl shape in an attempt to draw the mechanical warriors deeper. In the meantime, magi attempt to heal the heavy infantry and keep them on their feet. The Light Cavalry is to attack the drawn in mechanical warriors from behind. Mostly trying to find a weak spot.

As the Cavalry move around, a roar fills the air, cutting above even the thunder above as shapes drop from the clouds. Fast and powerful, the bombers come in low, horrific bombs falling onto the conflict. While the Mechanical Warriors shrug off the roaring flames, the soldiers are not so lucky.

A magi has a public duty towards his people. He has a gift and therefor a responsibility. All Magi know this. It is one of the founding principles of New Engelica. Thus the Magi have no choice but to shield their troops from the roaring flames raining down. Hoping that the Mage Tempest they brewed days before would somehow hinder the bombers.

The Magi and War-Magi do what they can to shield their soldiers, but they simply cannot protect them all, and some fall to the ground screaming with pain. The Dirigbles are obviously struggling against the buffeting winds from the storm, so they cannot turn for another bombing run, forced to fly back to friendly skies. Meanwhile the Mechanical Warriors, receiving some signal from a far-off commander, turn as one and begin to fight with earnest back towards their lines, and as you watch the crew of the Mechanical Walkers bail out of their machines and run back towards the neighboring friendly province.

Enough blood has been spilled in a country they were already reluctant to march into. Too many lost their lives in the conflict. The forces of New Engelica allowed the enemy to flee. There were more important things now. Treating the wounded, and examining the destroyed Mechanical Warriors and Walkers. The Mage Tempest remained. A still powerful storm surging above the province. Discouraging any bomber to fly there.

Province 52
Sindar, Alec, Eléane Bredain
The battle was a hard won victory. The pure power of the Mechanical Warriors had slaughtered the defensive barrier of the Heavy Infantry. While the Magi tried their every spell and power, most seemed to only graze the metal shells. When the flying bombers entered the fray, the Magi couldn’t destroy a single one of them. Never the less, after a long battle New Engelica came out victorious. They swiftly moved to secure the frozen Mechanical Walkers. The only success of the battle. Tents were swiftly setup around them, as Magi began to crawl inside to examine them. In the meantime the few destroyed Mechanical Warriors were stripped apart in an effort to understand their inner workings.

The elder War-Magi looked tired, defeated. Within the command tent, they seemed much more human now than back in the Holy Lands, where they sat on the pedestals reserved for the gods there. They sat on uncomfortable wooden chairs. With dim light from a central fire casting long shadows around. “We cannot march on…” mumbled an elder lady. Alec agreed with her. It seemed that New Engelica’s campaign would come to an end. Too many had lost their lives according to the elders. Together, they dictated a letter towards the Broken Empire. Detailing that they could not push any further.

Beaten they came out of their tent, only to be greeted by their polar opposites. Proud Magi stood in rows, more disciplined now than ever. With long black or red robes. The young War-Magi stood in the front row. Behind all them stood row after row of Heavy Infantry. They had polished armor shining in the dusk sun. Eléane and Sindar walked up to their father, who was holding the letter. “All troops present and accounted for, father.” Both greeted him official, and disciplined. Alec, as were the other veterans of the First Mage War, were taken by surprise. They had assumed that the troops were broken. But clearly they were ready for one more fight. Alec burned the note in his hand, and let the snippets of smoldering paper fall to the ground. “Send a rider out to the Broken Empire. Tell them to meet up at the southern border between their land and the last bit of Limgar.”

The army used to be broken indeed. After the battle. But Eléane and Sindar, future rulers of New Engelica saw this too and were no fools. Eléane, getting the nickname “Godslayer” for her feats within the Holy Lands, had a hearty talk with the younger War-Magi. The new generation. She played their vain and pride. Telling them there weren’t acting like the powerful beings they were supposed to be. Instead, they looked terribly human and by extent, terribly weak and mortal. This hit a string within all War-Magi. In the same time, Sindar used clever stories of his father and other mages. Those who saved kings and destroyed armies, not through power but through clever thinking. That combined with a liberal amount of wine raided from a nearby village, made sure that the mages would remember that their name too could be written down. The next day both groups were back on their feet and ready as ever. All fired up a little more by Sindar’s final speech. Where he told them that now the stories told about them would not see them as invaders. Their allies, the dwarves from the Broken Empire would see true magic. And they would sing songs in their halls for long after the day. He also told them about the Orcs, pathetic excuses for magic users, who cowered behind walking dead because they couldn’t do more than reanimate a corpse. Sindar commanded all mages to show them was real magic was.

---

Province 52
Some mages
Days before the final decision, mages had been examining the Mechanical Warriors. A horrid combination of cogs, chains, belts and gears made up the inward workings of the machines. Not a single mage could even begin comprehending the machines. Clueless, they dumped the parts on a cart and send it back to Al’Gruin. Where maybe the trained researchers would find anything useful. Though they held little belief that they would be able to discover anything. So they moved on to the Mechanical Walkers. Inside they had found several frozen over pipes. The freezing of water within the walkers seemed to be a very viable tactic. But they discovered something else. Furnaces within. Clearly the crew inside were burning burning stuff. Which the fire mages liked very much. Because right now, the crew could still fleet the immobilized walker. But what if the flames were fanned in such a way that they’d engulf the entire interior? The Walkers would turn into metal tombs for the crew. The theory was viable enough to be tested out.

My Actions

Diplomacy
Orngat offered military and naval support in the final fight against Limgar. New Engelica welcomed the proposal and forged an alliance with Orngat.

Garrison
Province 58
- 5 Units of Heavy Infantry
- 5 Units of Magi
- 6 Units of War-Magi

Province 59
- 3 Units of Light Infantry
- 6 Units of Heavy Infantry
- 5 Units of Light Cavalry
- 7 Units of Magi
- 5 Units of War-Magi

Province 60
- 2 Units of Light Infantry
- 4 Units of Heavy Infantry
- 8 Units of Magi
- 4 Units of War-Magi

Province 55
- 2 Units of Light Infantry
- 5 Units of Heavy Infantry
- 5 Units of Magi
- 6 Units of War-Magi

Province 53
- 5 Units of Heavy Infantry
- 5 Units of Magi

Province 52
- 1 Unit of Light Cavalry
- 5 Units of Magi

Troop movement
From 53 to 52 - Garrison reinforcements
- 4 Units of Heavy Infantry

From 55 to 53 - Garrison reinforcements
- 5 Units of Heavy Infantry
- 5 War-Magi

From 52 to 50 - Conquer intent
- 13 Units of Heavy Infantry
- 2 Units of Light Cavalry
- 28 Units of Magi
- 24 Units of War-Magi

Production
Province 59: War-Magi
Province 58: War-Magi
Province 60: War-Magi
Province 55: Heavy Infantry
Province 53: Heavy Infantry
Province 52: Heavy Infantry

Research
Dirigibles

((More and Actions coming soon))

[Mardox]

Pareth the Wrathful cackled with glee. Aside from slight diplomatic issues with the other Island Powers and rumors of a darkness from the west, all was going well. Blaris was on its last legs. He sent a messenger to go alert his campaign army to finish off the foes. Furthermore, a human aristocrat from the Union of Blaris was agreeing to watch over the new territory for Pankra. Obviously, the defector would have to be watched very closely but it would help keep the new citizens in line if a familiar leader would be their governor. The humans would probably appreciate the representation in the New Order as well. Pareth frowned, a few pesky rebels were loose in his kingdom. Not enough to actually DO anything, but enough to sour Pareth's mood as it meant some of the people wanted the old democracy back. He would have to use carrot and stick measures at some point to break the rebels' support, but in the meantime, the military was perfectly equipped to deal with it even using a skeleton garrison in a province.

Actions

Orders
Navy is to transport 15 war-magi, 10 artillery, 750 Berserkers (heavy infantry), 3000 Skirmishers (Light infantry), 1000 Archers, 1000 Raiders (light cavalry), 200 Black Knights (heavy cavalry), 1700 Men-at-arms (conscript infantry), 1700 Horde Archers (conscript Archers) all from 63 to 62.
War-magi will then conjure 15000 Dead Legionnaires (conscript undead, even mix of infantry and archers) who will charge into the proviunit

One heavy infantry unit, one War-magi, 480 men-at-arms (conscript infantry) and 480 Horde Archers (conscript archers) to 63 as garrison.

Recruitment
Province 65:
1 Transport ship unit
1 Heavy Infantry unit
Province 64:
1 Ship unit
1 War-magi unit
Province 63:
1 Ship Unit
1 War-magi unit

Research: Lesser Air Magic (Turn 3)

Garrison

Province 65:
73,060 Men-At-Arms (conscript infantry)
73,060 Horde Archers (conscript archers)
5 artillery
Province 64:
240 Men-at-arms
240 Horde Archers
20 Dark Initiates (Magi)
Province 63:
480 Men-at-arms
480 Horde Archers
25 Berserkers (Heavy Infantry)
1 War magi

Navy:
61 Ship units (305 war galleons)
2 Transports