KLARMONT 1, AC 1015: Ierendi Crown Tourney.
Location: Ierendi. OW
Description: The two contestants with the highest scores in today's Royal Tournament of Adventurers become King and Queen of Ierendi for a year. This year is as exciting as the rest of them as the most famous adventurers from around the world compete fiercely for the title.
At one point during the competition, a woman in the crowd goes into labour. The adventurers stop their tourney and rush to aid the woman, as do a few others in the crowd. The child is born without any problems thanks to the help of Reston (king until yesterday and current competitor) and Joshuan Gallidox (who was in the crowd). Reston and the other adventurers who helped are given extra points by the judges for their heroic deeds and sacrifice of time from the Tourney.
The young woman is often called "Strawberry" by the locals due to her gardening skills at growing the fruit. As for the name and gender of the child, you'll just have to ask Strawberry.
What The PCs Can Do: They can also participate in the birth of Strawberry's child if they are present.
Also, they can be in the Crown Tourney, trying to win the crown for a year. If no PC male manages to claim the throne, then Reston will win for another year, extending his all time record of victories.
KLARMONT 1, AC 1015: Deimos Defeated.
Location: Sable Tower, Broken Lands. OW
Description: A group of adventurers discover Sable Tower and confront the lich Deimos. After a great magical battle, the lich is destroyed. Sable Tower comes crashing to the ground soon afterwards. (See Ya. 12, Ya. 18.)
What This Means: Synn has just lost a powerful pawn, and her plans on Darokin will be put on halt for several years. If she discovers the identity of the adventurers who killed Deimos, she will probably try to end their lives as quickly as possible.
With Deimos gone, the surviving shadow elves allied with Synn (about a dozen of them) return to Fenswick. The goblinoid problem in Darokin should come to a quick conclusion now that they are without leadership.
What The PCs Can Do: They can be the adventurers who find Sable Tower and defeat Deimos. The exact location of Sable Tower is left up to the individual DM.
KLARMONT 2, AC 1015: Showdown at Sambay.
Location: Town of Sambay, Jalawar, Sind. OW
Description: Hool's Great Migration attempts to sack the town of Sambay, after having spent the past week or so raiding small family settlements in the grasslands of Jalawar, and playing hit and run with Jalawar forces. Unfortunately for Hool, Sambay is home to a large encampment of Hulean forces, with orders from the Master to put an end to the goblinoid menace. The two forces clash inside and outside of the town. (See Fl. 3, Ya. 19; Kl. 6, Kl. 26.)
KLARMONT 2, AC 1015: Concordia Halts at Ionace.
Location: Ionace, NACE. AS
Description: The Concordia stops at the capital of Ionace to pick up the Alphatian diplomat. There, they learn that the better way to pass through the anti-magic zone is by going out of the Shyshield into the void, then plunge into the hole between the world and pray. The Alphatians propose to provide the crew with enough airmasks within the shortest time. (See Th. 15, Ya. 15; Fy. 9, Am. 13.)
What This Means: The Alphatians have no knowledge about Haldemar's exact tactic (using the ripstorms near Green Bay, and using Leo's mechanical device). They know, however, that going in the void is deadly without airmasks or an especially enchanted skyship. Unfortunately, the Concordia does not have the proper enchantments (the Alphatian skyship stolen by the Karameikans and the Heldannic Knights had). Getting enough airmasks will take some time, however, as the Alphatians don't have enough in reserve. They will make some and buy everything the gnomes of Serraine have to offer.
KLARMONT 2, AC 1015: Honour Crusade Issued.
Location: Forest of the Curse, Wendar. OW
Description: After a brief private meeting, the Clanleaders of the Alfheimers agree that if there is no place for them in Wendar, then they will carve out a new dominion of their own claiming back the forests of Denagoth as their rightful legacy from the Geffronells. Clanmasters Durifern and Beasthunter issue the Honour Crusade to retake Geffron, and indeed many elves (not only Alfheimers) respond.
Somewhere else, a dark figure caresses the skull of a dragon while staring at the scenes passing on a strangely carved mirror. (See Ya. 22, Ya. 27; Kl. 10, Fe. 1.)
What This Means: The Alfheimers have had enough of the Wendarian hostility and cowardice and think it's time to act for the pride of their race. The memory of their exodus from Canolbarth is still burning in their hearts, and this seems the right opportunity to feel alive and united again. They want to find a new home, to avenge their brethren but above all to show the world and themselves that they are as fearless and brave as they've always been.
As for the mysterious figure, this is the person who's behind the troubles Wendar is having and is about to experience in the near future. However, its identity will remain hidden for now.
KLARMONT 2, AC 1015: A Rift Between Allies.
Location: Toralai Territory, Neathar Lands. HW
Description: Over a midday meal, Zandor and Zorok discuss the situation between the Neathar and Alphatians. Once again, Zorok proposes an attack on Haldemar. As before, Zandor opposes the assault. Zorok tries to argue the matter but is cut off by Zandor who tells him that such an assault would prove disastrous towards the Neathar. Zorok asks him to explain. Sighing, Zandor offers to demonstrate.
Gathering his belongings, Zandor leads Zorok outside. Casting a spell upon himself, Zandor rises into the air. From this vantage point, he unleashes a series of spells upon the Neathar encampment. The spells destroy tents and kill and injure several Neathar, while several others are transformed in wild beasts.
From above, Zandor yells down to a horrified Zorok telling him that this is just a taste of what Alphatia is capable of. Zandor then yells taunting remarks to Zorok, chiding him as a fool. Zorok cries out that he had thought that Zandor was an ally, but Zandor responds that he has used him to gain the spellbooks in Dogrel. After admiring his work for a brief moment, Zandor flies off into the distance. (See Fl. 8, Ya. 4; Kl. 11, Kl. 16.)
What This Means: Zandor has gained what he wanted from Zorok and the Neathar, spellbooks. Gaining these, his patience with his host has steadily diminished. When Zorok began arguing the matter of assaulting Haldemar, Zandor decided to show Zorok the power potential of Alphatia. He had intended to cast a Fireball and destroy a tent or two. However, he became enthralled at the destruction and let loose with a full barrage of spells.
Casting the majority of his offensive spells, Zandor opted to depart so he could rememorise them. Being Zandor he could not leave without chastising Zorok and citing his own superiority. His ego satisfied, Zandor then flew off to find a safe spot to rebuild his spell inventory. His course is directed by a voice in his head, that of Nyx, and it tells him to fly towards the Lands of the Gentle Folk.
KLARMONT 3, AC 1015: The Advance Is Halted.
Location: South of Get-ka, Nithia. HW
Description: A host of Nithian soldiers meets a smaller group of invaders just south of Get-ka, on the Nithian mainland. The force is met, and after several hours of hard fighting, repulsed by the defenders. Reduced to half of their original number, the mysterious invaders pull back across the river, to take up defensive positions around the village of Get-ka.
The Nithians do not find any living enemies to interrogate among the wounded. (See Ya. 12, Ya. 28; Kl. 10, Fe. 20.)
What This Means: After almost a month of setbacks, the Nithian army has sufficiently recovered from the shock of the surprise attack to halt the advance of the mysterious invaders, and begin to turn the tide. The Senkhites will now be on the offensive.
KLARMONT 4, AC 1015: Papalotl Saves Children.
Location: Countryside near Taxutlan, Azca. HW
Description: Papalotl scares away a tiger that was attacking a group of Azcan children. The beast, later aggrandised as actually being a weretiger, reportedly flees as Papalotl utters the name of Quetzalcoatl. (See Ya. 10; Fe. 7, Fe. 16.)
What This Means: Papalotl is seen by many Azcans as a protector of the youth. By scaring the beast away and calling upon Quetzalcoatl, the nameless, he establishes a religious aura deeply rooted in the Azcan folklore.
KLARMONT 5, AC 1015: The Master Strikes Back.
Location: Raneshwar, Gunjab, Sind. OW
Description: The forces of the Master of Hule, drawn from nearby Kadesh and Peshmir, have finally organised to strike at the resistance movement, now operating out of Raneshwar. The rebels have been spending the past month getting rested and equipped, and they are more than ready for the Hulean forces. The siege of Raneshwar begins. (See Fl. 19, Ya. 4; Kl. 9, Kl. 10.)
What This Means: The underground has made their base in the beleaguered town of Raneshwar. They are aided both by the rajah of Nagpuri, as well as secret allies from Darokin. Both the Freedom Warriors and the Followers of Gareth have grown in strength, bolstered by Sindhi from Nagpuri.
KLARMONT 5, AC 1015: Oceansend Declares Independence.
Location: Oceansend, New Heldannic Territories. NW
Description: Early in the morning, Councillor Olaf Yarrvikson barges into Governor-General Hermann Adalard meeting room with 30 armed men behind him. The former king demands that Adalard immediately surrenders control of Oceansend to him. Outnumbered and out-armed, the Heldannic leaders surrender.
Meanwhile, large militia forces attack the various Heldannic barracks throughout the city. The Heldannic Knights start organising their defence when they discover that most of the ballistae pointed into the city have been sabotaged. Even worse, the peasant mobs are very well armed.
The Heldannic Knights manage to hold their own and even start winning against the Oceansenders. But their hard earned victories are destroyed when several contingents of Rocktooth Dwarves suddenly appear within the city walls and attack the Knights. When word reaches the Knights that their commanders have been captured, most surrender.
By midday, Olaf Yarrvikson announces that Oceansend is free once more, and that he is again their rightful king. (See Fl. 3, Fl. 20; Kl. 10, Fe. 2.)
What This Means: The Heldannic Knights have just lost their most important stronghold in Norwold. The news will be a terrible blow to the commanders back in Freiburg. The Fifth and Sixth Division of the Glory of Vanya had been sent to reinforce the soldiers already there to prevent just such an incident. Yet still, they failed.
What they hadn't counted on were the Rocktooth Dwarves of Kildorkak. For the past couple of years, the dwarves had been smuggling weapons into Oceansend, but the Knights never could figure out how. It seems that there is an underground entrance to the city sewers, which the dwarves have expended into several connecting tunnels. When the Heldannic Knights began torturing every dwarf they found - believing them to all be weapon smugglers - the Rocktooth Dwarves vowed to help overthrow the tyrant rulers.
Olaf Yarrvikson was able to bring a couple dozen loyal followers into the palace unnoticed and easily staged the coup from there. As for the sabotage, a few of Oceansend's mages specialised in invisibility spells working in conjunction with members of the Dark Mask (the local thieves' guild) accomplished them all the night before. The Dark Masks suffered greatly under the Heldannic banner as the Knights were very effective at controlling crime, so they decided to throw in their lot with the rebels.
Now, 2500 Knights are dragged and chained up in the dungeons of the palace.
What The PCs Can Do: If in Oceansend, they can affect the outcome of the battle in the streets of the city. Unless they happen to be very highly regarded by Olaf Yarrvikson or Hermann Adalard, it is unlikely that they can prevent Yarrvikson from capturing Adalard and hence ultimately regaining control of the city.
KLARMONT 6, AC 1015: Hool Captured!
Location: Town of Sambay, Jalawar, Sind. OW
Description: The siege of Sambay comes to an end today in a decisive battle between Hulean forces and those of the Great Migration. During the engagement, the Supreme Hool attempts a daring strike against the defenders, only to fail dramatically. Most of his strike force is killed, and Hool himself is captured. Leadership of the disorganised Great Migration falls onto the shoulders of the not-entirely-sane Nizam Pasha, who immediately orders a retreat from the field. (See Ya. 19, Kl. 2; Kl. 26, Fe. 11.)
What This Means: This is a devastating blow to the Great Migration once again. Numbering about 6,000, with maybe 50% of those fighting forces, they will have a hard trek attempting to get out of Jalawar. Nizam retreats to the north, onto the sparsely populated grasslands, but he is harried by Hulean forces for much of the way. Even worse, there is dissent amongst the ranks about the change in leadership; Nizam is not nearly as charismatic a leader as Hool.
What The PCs Can Do: There is ample opportunity for PC involvement, either as members of the besieging Great Migration, or as inhabitants of Sambay, trying to defend themselves from the goblinoid siege.
KLARMONT 8, AC 1015: Harpooned Halfling Happenings.
Location: Five Shires. OW
Description: Several halflings throughout the land have been disappearing without a trace. No remains are left behind, and no tracks are left on the ground to follow. The increase in foreigners in the area gives too many suspects for the Krondar (local Hin watch) to suspect anyone in particular. (See Fl. 3, Ya. 12; Kl. 22, Fe. 15.)
What This Means: Several Glantrian mages have been promised admission into the Great School of Magic if they bring at least twenty living halflings to Marsheem. They are using a flying raft to scoop up the halflings and disappear "without a trace."
Marsheem is actually an agent of Synn and is following orders to further isolate Glantri from the rest of the world. He doesn't expect the hirelings to succeed, but if they do, they could be useful to Synn - especially if she learns about Blackflame.
Those who own GAZ 8 - The Five Shires, are encouraged to use adventure #6: The Harpooned Haflings Happenings for a better description of this adventure.
What The PCs Can Do: They can discover the Glantrian kidnappers and free the halflings. Once they know of the details, the Sheriffs of the Shires send a formal protest to Glantri. With a cold reminder of the events in Eirmont 1012 Glantri states that if the Five Shires "is experiencing difficulties with 'Glantrian kidnappers,' it's not due to any activities sanctioned by the Princes of Glantri. Besides we're too busy with those barbaric Ethengarians to care."
Diplomatic relations would become very strained.
KLARMONT 8, AC 1015: Arrival at Vanya's Rest.
Location: Vanya's Rest, eastern Davania. JC
Description: Herr Wulf's ship finally reaches Vanya's Rest, amid much surprise from the Knights stationed here. Upon disembarking, he arranges to meet the fort's commander, and informs him that he has received orders from Vanya to commence a quest without delay, which will require the aid of a select group of soldiers stationed here, as well as the party he brought with him. He plans to make a formal announcement first thing tomorrow morning. (See Ya. 10, Ya. 11; Kl. 9, Kl. 15.)
What This Means: Herr Wulf is merely following Vanya's orders, now that he has reached his destination. He plans to gather the best soldiers stationed here to accompany him and his party towards the interior, where he knows the hated Milenians live.
KLARMONT 9, AC 1015: The Heretics of Ixion.
Location: Puerto Morillos, Narvaez. SC
Description: Barón Hugo of Narvaez, to defuse the tension growing between the Afflicted and those not Afflicted, declares all Afflicted blasphemers toward Ixion. They have been punished by the great Immortal, and should be treated as less than people.
The Inquisitors begin a purge of the Afflicted, causing many to flee to other Baronies. (See Va. 10, Th. 12; Kl. 12.)
What This Means: In the religious lands of Narvaez, being an Afflicted is now as good as a death sentence. In fact, many of the Inquisitors lead holy crusades against the Afflicted, killing them without even the benefit of a trial (not that a trial actually saved anyone accused by the Inquisitors).
The Barón decided upon this course after much pressure from the religious leaders of his nation. Being a reverent man, Barón Hugo agreed to follow the will of Ixion. Little do they know, but even the priests of Ixion have been manipulated into this by several Narvaezan Fiends (see Monstrous Compendium - Savage Coast Appendix). They're completely ecstatic with the fear and hatred running rampant throughout the barony.
KLARMONT 9, AC 1015: The Crusade Begins.
Location: Vanya's Rest, eastern Davania. JC
Description: Herr Wulf delivers a speech this morning outlining his divine mission from Vanya - nothing less than a crusade against the Milenians to the far west. He shares the knowledge that Vanya imparted to him before his quest began - that the descendants of those people who opposed her in life still exist. He asks for 200 dedicated Knights to accompany him and his chosen party on this journey to restore the honour of the Heldannic Order. The enthusiasm is so great that he is forced to pick among those wishing to go, and before noon today, preparations begin for the journey that is to begin that afternoon. (See Ya. 11, Kl. 8; Kl. 15, Fe. 9.)
What This Means: Herr Wulf has imparted some of the knowledge given to him by Vanya, and he managed to be persuasive enough that he will have a small army accompany him and his party.
What The PCs Can Do: The players may listen to the speech and be inspired, or they may ignore it. Afterwards, they will more than likely be pressed into service; the small army requires ample supplies for itself and the war horses that will be ridden.
KLARMONT 9, AC 1015: Vestland Makes A Petition.
Location: Darokin City, Darokin. OW
Description: Emissaries from Vestland make a petition to representatives of the Western Defence League in Darokin today. They request that Vestland be allowed to join the WDL along with other of the Old World nations. The WDL deliberates, but it seems likely they will grant Vestland's request.
What This Means: Vestland rulers are increasingly concerned about their nation. Warmongering Ethengarians and Heldannic Knights to the west of them, and now the Ostland and Soderfjord uprisings in the south and east. They desire the added protection and support that the WDL can provide them with. The WDL is intrigued by the offer. They have already lost two members in recent years - Ylaruam and Rockhome - and are eager to increase their influence.
KLARMONT 9, AC 1015: Breaking the Siege.
Location: Raneshwar, Gunjab, Sind. OW
Description: In an attempt to break the ongoing siege, it is decided that a small force of rebels, led by Anand Brishnapur and Sitara Rohini of the Garethians, will leave the city and draw off a portion of the Hulean troops. They manage to escape the city, but the plan backfires; as the escaping army turns to trap their besiegers in a two front attack, they are surprised to learn that reinforcements for the Huleans, sent directly from the capital of Sayr Ulan, are fast approaching. They are caught between the two armies, and things look bad. (See Ya. 4, Kl. 5; Kl. 10, Kl. 11.)
What This Means: This is actually a bit of double dealing by the Himayas of the Freedom Warriors. They were informed of the approach of the reinforcements by allies in the palace of the rajadhiraja. Figuring that this was a prime opportunity to rid themselves of the leaders of the Followers of Gareth, they convinced them that the best way to end the siege was to try and capture the Huleans between two armies. As things stand, the only ones trapped are the Garethians.
KLARMONT 10, AC 1015: Followers of Gareth Escape.
Location: Raneshwar, Gunjab, Sind. OW
Description: With the guidance of Anand Brishnapur, a brilliant strategist, the small force of rebels that escaped Raneshwar manage to outmanoeuvre the Hulean forces that confront them. Anand leads the rebels through the midst of the Hulean reinforcements in a daring night action, with a minimal loss of his own troops. He guides them into the mountainous regions surrounding Raneshwar. Unfortunately, the Huleans immediately lay in to the city of Raneshwar once more. (See Kl. 5, Kl. 9; Kl. 11, Fe. 1.)
What This Means: The Himayas underestimated Anand's resourcefulness, and now their plan has backfired. The Freedom Warriors are quickly beginning to lose the fight for the city.
KLARMONT 10, AC 1015: Norwold Lords Revolt.
Location: New Heldannic Territories. NW
Description: With the destruction of the Heldannic Knights' power in Oceansend, many northern nobles who were too afraid to revolt now declare their own independence. (See Fl. 20, Kl. 5; Fe. 2, Am. 25.)
What This Means: This is a dangerous time to be a Heldannic Knight in the Norwold section of their territories. Except for Landfall and Forton, the allegiance of all other towns and strongholds is now completely uncertain. Most Knights retreat back to one of those towns rather than risk entering one which may side with the rebels. This fall back of the Knights of course allows even more minor lords to try their luck at independence.
What The PCs Can Do: If they're Heldannic Knights, their best bet is to get out of the area as quickly as possible. If they themselves are lords of minor baronies, they might try to revolt as well, or maybe face the armies of nearby revolting territories.
KLARMONT 10, AC 1015: To Paint a Royal Picture.
Location: Thyatis City, Thyatis. OW
Description: Emperor Eusebius hires the famous Traladaran painter Akatrina to paint a portrait of his daughter Valentia. The child has just celebrated her first birthday today.
KLARMONT 10, AC 1015: Crusaders Head North.
Location: Forest of the Curse, Wendar. OW
Description: The Elven Crusaders have assembled in the past days in the Alfheimers' territory and are now ready to begin their quest. They leave today and march northward led by Durifern and Beasthunter. Many Erendyls led by Gilfronden and Genalleth elves also join the Crusade. The humans of Wendar sigh in relief watching so many elves leaving their territory. In fact, after last year's illness they are a minority, and this has so far contributed much to their paranoia against the elven race. (See Ya. 27, Kl. 2; Fe. 1, Fe. 5.)
What This Means: The call of the Alfheim clanmasters has not fallen on deaf ears. The whole Grunalf clan and the majority of the Longrunners have joined the Crusade almost immediately, while it took a bit more time for General Gilfronden of the Erendyls to be persuaded. About one fifth of Grunalfs (300 out of 1500) and two fifths of Longrunners (1800 out of 4600) remain in Wendar, mostly those unable to fight. There are also many Genalleth elves that join the mission to testify that they are not a weak and coward folk, together with other Alfheimers belonging to the minor clans (about 2000). The Crusaders that march northwards are about 6200 strong.
Doriath, as well as the majority of Erendyls and Mealidils do not participate in the Crusaders because they think it's better to wait for the outcome of the events in Alfheim before taking drastic decisions: the other Alfheimers understand and let them be.
[Note, to DMs who have already exposed General Gilfronden as a shadow elf, replace him with another famous elven General of your creation. There must be a well known and loved Elven General for this story plot.]
What The PCs Can Do: If they are elves they can volunteer in the Army. If they belong to any other race, they can be enlisted only if they prove they are trustworthy and loyal to the elves' cause (which is an adventure in itself).
KLARMONT 10, AC 1015: Siege of Menkara Broken.
Location: Menkara, Nithia. HW
Description: Soldiers supporting Senkha successfully relieve the defenders of Menkara, who had been trying to hold off soldiers belonging to the mysterious force that invaded many weeks before. Although the besiegers resist mightily, they cannot hold their ground, being pressed from within Menkara and from the northward-moving Nithian army. After hours of fierce fighting, in which the invaders suffer many casualties, the Nithians win the day, forcing the unknown force to the northeast of the city. As with previous battles, the Nithians do not capture any enemy soldiers. (See Ya. 28, Kl. 3; Fe. 20, Am. 19.)
KLARMONT 11, AC 1015: Atzanteotl Builds Up Forces.
Location: City of Aengmor. OW
Description: The few goblinoid Shamans of Atzanteotl still alive in the Eastern Broken Lands rally the scattered goblinoids in the area encouraging them to wilfully join the Shadow Elves of Aengmor with the promise of a higher ranking within the new goblinoid hierarchy under Shadow Elves' control.
Old Hutai Khan and his horde are among the recruited ones. The elves of Aengmor, led by Xatapechtli, welcome the goblinoids and use them as cheap slave work or fodder for the army. (See Nu. 10.)
What This Means: Since Kanafasti and his group left Aengmor, Atzanteotl started coveting the city and the surrounding area for himself, so he instructed his shamans and his pawn Xatapechtli to rally all the remaining goblinoids in the area.
Rafiel doesn't oppose Atzanteotl trying to maintain the illusion that he is evil and malign rather than good and kindly, in order to protect his Shadow Elves from Atzanteotl. However, unbeknownst to him, Atzanteotl finally begun realising that Rafiel is not what he pretends to be, so he begins coveting the Shadow Elves even more than before and puts secret plots into motion.
Hutai Khan has no love for Shadow Elves after the war in Oenkmar, but works for them while plotting to gain his own power. Unfortunately many of his subjects see this as an opportunity of getting rid of Hutai and taking his place as chief of the tribe, so they plot against him. And with the recent defeat of Deimos, the Shadow Elves are the only true power remaining in the area.
What The PCs Can Do: Hobgoblin PCs from Hutai's tribe may actively cooperate with Shadow Elves (and thus Atzanteotl) trying to gain a better status in their eyes and thus increasing their chances of being the next chief of Hutai's tribe.
KLARMONT 11, AC 1015: Death of a Hero.
Location: Raneshwar, Gunjab, Sind. OW
Description: As things look their bleakest for the Freedom Warriors inhabiting Raneshwar, the Hulean forces are suddenly attacked by two new forces, all fighting in the name of Gareth. Anand Brishnapur's small army attacks from the west, while another army, mainly comprised of Darokinians, strikes from the east. They manage to break their way through the Hulean forces, doing the opposition heavy damage, and hold the gates long enough to evacuate the town.
The casualties on the rebels' side are enormous, among them the death of Anand Brishnapur himself, who was killed during the holding action. Attempts to resurrect his body are met with failure. The Followers of Gareth take his death badly, particularly Sitara Rohini, who had become very close with the mystic. (See Kl. 9, Kl. 10; Fe. 1, Fe. 8.)
What This Means: Anand's forces were joined by reinforcements from Darokin, sent by Arturo Olivera from the church of Gareth in Akorros. The two banded together to aid their allies, but Anand was unfortunately lost. Ironically, this action will only damage the Himayas' position further - not only are the Followers of Gareth widely regarded for their heroism, but Anand Brishnapur has now become a martyr to their cause.
KLARMONT 11, AC 1015: Boldavia Defences Broken.
Location: Boldavia, Glantri. OW
Description: The Ethengarians finally defeat the last of the Glantrian units still remaining in Boldavia. After a poor plundering of the principality, Moglai now leads them into the valleys and toward the Principality of Klantyre. (See Ya. 18, Ya. 20; Kl. 19, Fe. 3.)
What This Means: Things are not looking good for the Glantrians. Since the undead of the area have started attacking the forces on both sides, the Ethengarians have had the advantage. Although neither side has clerics, the Ethengarians have horses. This has allowed the barbaric nomads to outrun the undead forces while the Glantrians were usually forced to fight. Overall, the Glantrians have lost more men to the undead than they have to the Ethengarians. Seeing no other choice, they have retreated into the lands of Klantyre.
The undead hordes continue to roam around, apparently aimlessly, in the valleys of Boldavia.
KLARMONT 11, AC 1015: The Angry Father.
Location: Toralai Territory, Neathar Lands. HW
Description: A dinosaur riding Neathar warrior rides into Zorok's camp. Dismounting, he rushes to report to Zorok that the ransom has been delivered to the Krugel Orcs and the hostages freed. The bad news is that Alphatians delivered the ransom. Zorok inquires about the hostages, and the rider reports that all the hostages except Zorella have been released in Neathar Lands. His daughter is believed to still be in their custody and probably in Haldemar. Zorok is livid at hearing of this; he dispatches messengers to summon his War Chiefs. (See Ya. 4, Kl. 2; Kl. 16, Kl. 19.)
What This Means: After the incident with Zandor, the level of animosity that the Toralai have for the Alphatians is at an all time high. Zorok and his War Chiefs have been contemplating their next move. The news of the ransom delivery and the fact that Zorok's daughter has not been freed makes Zorok think the Alphatians have taken her hostage. He also wonders about the whereabouts of his eldest daughter, Zorena, who had been sent by Zorok to deliver the ransom. He suspects she has been killed, possibly by the Alphatians.
These acts spur Zorok into action. Overcome by emotions, he wants an assault on Haldemar itself. He does recognise the enormity of the task and will studiously plan the assault. He is also wary of the Alphatians, as Zandor's demonstration did much to instil a sense of what the Alphatians are capable of. Ironically he will draw upon some of the advice Zandor had given him for the attack on the town of Dogrel.
The preparations for the attack will take some planning. The possibility of Krugel Orc raids is a factor that should be remembered. Also, compared to the city of Haldemar, the defences of Dogrel were slight; what worked there may not work in Haldemar.
What The PCs Can Do: Neathar PCs can perform reconnaissance to gain information on the defences of Haldemar.
KLARMONT 12, AC 1015: Torreón Closes its Borders.
Location: Torreón. SC
Description: With the onrush of Afflicted fleeing Narvaez, Baronesa Isabel announces that Torreón is closing all borders to Afflicted. Those that still try to enter are cut down by the border guards. (See Th. 12, Kl. 9; Kl. 18, Kl. 22.)
What This Means: Torreón, having enough problems with its own Afflicted, refused entry to the refugees to prevent it from getting worse.
KLARMONT 14, AC 1015: Mermen Sighted.
Location: Thyatis City, Thyatis. OW
Description: A severely damaged Dolphin makes port in Thyatis harbour. Upon questioning the surviving crew members, the harbourmaster learns that the ship was attacked by an army of mermen just off the coast of Ochalea. They only managed to survive because they were lucky enough to have a party of adventurers on board. (See Ya. 6; Fe. 15, Fe. 19.)
What This Means: Thyatian officials now have a possible explanation to what has happened to over a dozen missing ships. They immediately send out parties to investigate the mermen. Meanwhile, all ships in the area prepare themselves for possible attacks by mermen. The mermen have an empire somewhere beneath the southern area of the Sea of Dread, and they concentrate their attacks along the shores of the Jungle Coast and Ochalea.
What The PCs Can Do: The PCs can be among those hired by the Empire of Thyatis to explore the Sea of Dread. They will certainly be in high demand if they are known to have previous underwater adventuring experience.
Location: Hilly country roughly 200 miles northwest of Vanya's Rest, eastern Davania. JC
Description: The crusaders have been making good time these past few days, thanks to the mild weather and the open terrain. Eventually they reach a line of hills, and as they cross them, they are attacked by a band of about 40 Meghaddara warriors. The Meghaddara are a Milenian/Cestian-descended people who inhabited the lands now occupied by Vanya's Rest, but were driven out by the Knights when it was built.
They now are semi-nomadic, following their herds around the Aryptian Savannah, though they have never forgotten the aggression of the Knights. The attack is fierce, and a few Knights are killed, though the band is too small to do any real damage. The Meghaddara are defeated easily, and the survivors are driven away. (See Kl. 8, Kl. 9; Fe. 9, Fe. 13.)
What This Means: The Meghaddara despise the Knights with a passion, and this band of them could not resist attacking them. Also, these lands have been claimed by them for a new homeland - many of them wish to settle down once again and rebuild their culture. Once word spreads of this battle, tensions between the two groups will only increase.
What The PCs Can Do: If they are with the Knights, the players can help fight off the attack; if they are with the Meghaddara, they may use their skills to try to drive away the Knights from this stretch of hills, which has been claimed for the construction of a new settlement.
KLARMONT 16, AC 1015: Dogrel Exposed.
Location: Haldemar, Alphatian Neatharum. HW
Description: Three Alphatian skyships land in Haldemar. From them emerge two hundred Imperial Troops who secure Dogrel's keep and take the King of Neatharum into custody. The troops bring Dogrel to the skyships where he is presented to Commander Ezreilla. She informs Dogrel that he is under arrest for his practice of enslavement and expansion despite the doctrine established by the Imperial Court. Commander Ezreilla has Dogrel interred pending a ruling from Andaire. In the meantime, she will act as military governor. (See Kl. 2, Kl. 11; Kl. 19, Kl. 21.)
What This Means: Dogrel's disregard for Empress Eriadna's policies towards the Neathar has finally been uncovered enough to warrant Imperial intervention. Presented with the evidence, Eriadna dispatches a contingent of her imperial troops to take him into custody. Though outnumbered by Haldemar's garrison, they meet little resistance. Most of the troops are aware of the practices of Dogrel, and have long anticipated this day and do not wish to oppose imperial troops. Dogrel is interred and Ezreilla assumes control of Neatharum while the matter is debated in Jafilia.
KLARMONT 17, AC 1015: The Estranged Elf.
Location: Hills of Iwaz, Jennite Holdings. HW
Description: A Jennite patrol discovers the body of an unconscious elf. The patrol ferries the elf back to the tribal camp. The Jen are puzzled as this elf is dressed in strange clothing and carries foreign items. For two days, the Men of Jen care for the weak elf trying to restore his health.
On the third day, the Jen are shocked to discover that the elf has disappeared from his bed with a small supply of provisions. Subsequent searches discover the elf's tracks. Unfortunately, the trail is lost a few miles from the Jennite camp.
What This Means: The unconscious elf is a member of the Blacklore Elves. Despondent over his situation within the Blacklore Valley, he chose to flee. Unfortunately, the pampered life within the Valley lacked the foundation for survival skills needed outside of the valley. In the blind journey from the Valley he fell victim to the elements and hunger.
Had he not been found by the Jennites, he surely would have perished. The Blacklore elf regained consciousness during the night. Unaware what exactly had transpired, he fled the encampment. He did have the forethought to snatch a few supplies for the road. His destination is to head back to the Blacklore Valley where things are more familiar and less dangerous.
What The PCs Can Do: The obvious tact is to search to the south to try to find the elf and uncover his secret. This hook could lead to various adventure opportunities within the Great Southern Shield mountain range.
Note to DMs: What becomes of this event is up to the DM. It should be noted that the outcome could include the discovery of the Blacklore Valley. This in itself could have consequences for not only the PCs but also the Blacklore Elves.
KLARMONT 18, AC 1015: Signatory Council Disapproves.
Location: Ciudad Real, Gargoña. SC
Description: In a Signatory Council Meeting, the representatives of Gargoña, Almarrón, and Saragón deplore Barón Hugo of Narvaez's method of channelling his people's anger just to ease the tension toward the nobility.
They announce that their nations will accept the Afflicted fleeing Narvaez with open arms. (See Kl. 9, Kl. 12; Kl. 22, Fe. 3.)
What This Means: Narvaez is once more becoming the opposition to almost all the other baronies. Still, Barón Hugo doesn't seem to mind, as he knows he'll win: Ixion is on his side.
Meanwhile, the leaders of the other baronies do their best to convince their population that the Afflicted are not carriers of some deadly plague. Since these states are enlightened, it works relatively well. Afflicted arrive without too much hassle.
KLARMONT 19, AC 1015: Klantyre Ransacked.
Location: Klantyre, Glantri. OW
Description: The horde of Ethengarian horse warriors pillage across the principality of Klantyre. Only the capital Glenmoorloch remains safe, as most Glantrian units in the area have retreated behind its wall. The Ethengarians stop and lay siege to the city. (See Ya. 20, Kl. 11; Fe. 3, Fe. 6.)
What This Means: Although Glantri City is Moglai's true destination, he's wise enough to not leave any forces behind him. That's why Glenmoorloch must fall. Still, with mages teleporting reinforcements and supplies in rather regularly, conquering Glenmoorloch is easier said than done.
Most of the Princes expected a much better defence from Klantyre. They assumed that Prince Brannart McGregor, another powerful necromancer [although no one knows he is also a lich. Ed.], would also unleash a horde of undead to face the horse warriors. Despite this belief, not one undead was seen on the battlefield. Many begin to speculate that something is wrong in Klantyre, yet representatives of the Prince assure them that he is fine.
In fact, Brannart McGregor has been destroyed. His unaging grandson, Angus McGregor (human, male, M15, stopped aging physically at the age of 10) usurped the lich-Prince several months ago and has been using illusions and magic to replace him. Since Brannart was never one to be seen in public very often, so far the plan has worked. Angus roamed around Castle McGregor and destroyed anything that could possibly be a phylactery for the lich, yet he constantly fears that he might have missed it. He therefore watches nervously for a possible return of his grandfather.
Although a prodigy in wizardry, Angus McGregor never had much training or skill in ruling a dominion. Although he could probably learn very well in time, time was not on his side and his poor management of its armed forces were the cause of Klantyre's downfall.
KLARMONT 19, AC 1015: Dogrel's Fate Teeters.
Location: Andaire, Jafilia, Alphatia. HW
Description: Dogrel's fate is still under debate. There is no doubt that he acted out of accordance with Eriadna's doctrine. However, Eriadna is hesitant to pronounce any decision on the matter. (See Kl. 11, Kl. 16; Kl. 21, Fy. 5.)
What This Means: Dogrel is guilty and Eriadna knows it. The problem is that she is hesitant to remove him from power on such grounds. She is truly angry at him for his disobedience and normally that would have been enough. However, her advisers have pointed out that the general opinion of the empire is that he only did what Alphatians have always done. Even Eriadna has had her regrets about making that decree based on an emotional moment. To rescind it would be like admitting she was wrong, and Eriadna is not about to do that.
KLARMONT 20, AC 1015: Cinnabryl Traded Successfully.
Location: Gulf of Hule. SC
Description: This time the fleet exporting the cinnabryl from Slagovich (in exchange for red steel) successfully meets at sea with the Inheritors. There's no pirate raid. (See Va. 13, Th. 26)
What This Means: The pirates have not been defeated, but the massive escort set up by Margrave Miosz II has discouraged any would-be thieves.
KLARMONT 21, AC 1015: Haldemar Assaulted.
Location: Haldemar, Alphatian Neatharum. HW
Description: Several thousand Neathar warriors assault the city of Haldemar. In spite of the city's defences, several Neathar manage to scale the walls and enter the city. Luckily these are few in number and easily handled before they can do too much damage. As the assaults continue, the defenders are hard-pressed to hold them off.
Commander Ezreilla calls King Dogrel and temporarily places the city garrison under his command. Assessing the situation, he dispatches troops where they are needed. Under his direction the assaults are forced back with more authority. With the battle turning into his favour, Dogrel begins assembling his own skyship troops and those of Commander Ezreilla for a counterattack.
After another assault on the walls, Dogrel orders the skyships aloft. Spotting these, the Neathar break ranks and flee. The skyships pursue them, unleashing volley after volley of missile weapons into the fleeing Neathar warriors.
With the Neathar abandoning the field, Dogrel signals the skyships to halt their pursuit. Under the watchful eye of the skyships overhead, troops are sent out to gather the wounded Neathar. As the prisoners are taken into custody and their wounds treated, the Neathar leader, Zorok, is discovered among their ranks. Dogrel orders that Zorok's wounds be given priority and places him under guard. He then returns command back over to Commander Ezreilla. (See Kl. 16, Kl. 19; Fy. 5, Fy. 27.)
What This Means: Since Commander Ezreilla assumed the position of military governor, the defences of Haldemar have suffered. The daily drills and regular patrols have been virtually dismissed by Ezreilla. This has allowed Zorok to assemble his warriors around Haldemar and observe the routines of the city without interference.
When the Neathar attack the walls, the defenders are ill prepared to meet them efficiently. Commander Ezreilla may be inexperienced in defensive warfare, but she is no fool. She knew enough to send for Dogrel and turn the defending troops over to his direction. That decision paid off.
Normally, Dogrel would have treated the attackers with a more of an "iron boot." However, with his own fate being debated and with a heavy Imperial presence on hand, he chooses to make a statement for his own defence. He halts his forces from pursuing the retreating Neathar and orders the troops to round up the wounded to have their wounds tended to.
That Zorok is among the wounded is a surprise. Dogrel is beside himself that circumstances prevent him from taking some revenge upon the man who has been a thorn in his side. Disgusted, he turns the garrison back over to Commander Ezreilla and returns to his rooms. His consolation is that he proved his supremacy in the battle and Commander Ezreilla knows it.
What The PCs Can Do: PCs allied to Neatharum can participate in the battle. Afterwards they can patrol the countryside looking for Neathar stragglers. PCs allied with Zorok can attempt a rescue of the Toralai Chief or some of the Neathar taken prisoner.
KLARMONT 22, AC 1015: The Unsheathing.
Location: The Five Shires. OW
Description: This is a day in which no hin will trade with any Thyatian in remembrance of AC 571 when the Thyatians seized halfling settlements in the Ierendi Islands. All hin go about armed, and drink, and sing piratical songs. After the incident a few weeks ago, many hin also refuse to trade with Glantrians as well as Thyatians.
A hin pirate ship, spurred on by the emotions of the Unsheathing, attacks a Thyatian ship and sinks it. (See Ya. 12, Kl. 8; Fe. 15, Fy. 1.)
What This Means: Unfortunately, one of Thyatis' prospective World Games athletes was aboard that ship - he was on his way to the Shires to check out the local conditions so as to be better prepared for the Games. Thyatis send a formal complaint demanding the Shires do something about their 'pirate problem.'
KLARMONT 22, AC 1015: Populations Up In Arms.
Location: Narvaez and Torreón. SC
Description: The people of Narvaez embark fully on the crusade to destroy all Afflicted. Many of the peasant farmers in Torreón behave similarly, even though their government hasn't given them permission to attack the Afflicted. (See Kl. 12, Kl. 18; Fe. 3, Fe. 13.)
What This Means: Torreón and Narvaez have always disliked the Afflicted because of their deformities, and recent events have only heightened this "fear." Although the other baronies are more enlightened or accepting of the deformed, these two baronies now have their populations in arms to take care of the "Afflicted problem."
In Narvaez, the witch-hunts are legal. In Torreón, however, Baronesa Isabel has not given any form of permission to harm Afflicted, unless they are trying to enter the barony from elsewhere. Still, when an Afflicted is found murdered, most officials look the other way.
Only in Las Guajacas, which is completely inhabited by Afflicted, do the peasants fear to enter. Most Afflicted in Torreón soon flee to this haven for them.
KLARMONT 24, AC 1015: Pacifists Meet Insanity.
Location: Lands of the Gentle Folk. HW
Description: A group of Gentle Folk pondering the relative nature of a belt and life are interrupted by the presence of a lone figure. Turning their attentions back to their debate, the figure just stands there and stares at them. He begins yelling at them phrases denoting his grandness. This serves him little as the elves ignore him except for an occasional glance.
Frustrated, the figure unleashes a Magic Missile spell at one of the elves, killing her. The other elves briefly look at the fallen elf and the figure before continuing their discussion. The figure then casts Fireball, killing two other elves. The display has little affect on the elves recognition of him. Frustrated, the figure storms off. (See Ya. 4, Kl. 2; Fe. 22, Fy. 14.)
What This Means: The lone figure is Zandor. Since his parting from Zorok, he has travelled across Neatharum and entered the Lands of the Gentle Folk at the instructions of the voice of Nyx in his head. Irritated by his journey and the lack of response by the elves, he slew one to demonstrate his power. That failing to get a response, he cast another spell. Angered, he trudges off to seek a place where he can find shelter.
Zandor hopes to use his powers to enslave some of the more primitive peoples in the Hollow World. He attempts this with the elves, but they ignore him. Normally, Zandor would have blasted them into submission. However, Zandor has quickly judged that the elves are not even worth being slaves. He will seek shelter in this land for now. In the meantime, he will do this world a service and slay any elves that cross his path.
KLARMONT 26, AC 1015: Raids in Shajarkand.
Location: Border between Sharjarkand and Jalawar, Sind. OW.
Description: The Great
Migration begins rampaging and raiding numerous tiny villages on
the Shajarkand border as it wends its way northwards out of
Jalawar. (See Kl. 2, Kl. 6; Fe.
11.)