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== STORY ==
Pre-Event Summary
After the recent uneasy alliance with Ironmound still under negotiations, Nightriver has begun to mobilize more of its warriors to send them to the frontlines. Branthur Nightriver has sent multiple messages urging his allies, the colonies, and the Coalition to take advantage of this opportunity and push for an end to the war. Military units and supply wagons have begun marching to purpose and the civil war continues to escalate… some fear to a bloody and brutal confrontation and others hope for a chance to stall the fighting and find a peaceful resolution.

Far to the north, members of the Coalition have gathered again at Onsallas Outpost. The pineed sap harvest is winding down but numerous trees are still able to produce enough sap to be collected. Villagers of Pack Longfang and Onsallas Village have begun a coordinated effort to explore the nearby swamp and territories for any and all supplies that could be collected and sent to the war effort. Mordok activity is on the rise but remain far enough away to not be a direct threat and merchants and adventurers have begun to visit Onsallas again.

During the Ironmound feast, Wargah Grimward revealed to everyone in attendance that Clan Grimward was also in possession of an ulven orb, an artifact identical to the one found in the swamp last year. Members of the coalition fear that it is now a race against time to see which side of the civil war unlocks the secrets behind the ulven artifact.

Post-Event Summary
As adventurers and travels from all across Mardrun collected at Onsallas Outpost, basic tasks and outpost defenses were divided up. Dry firewood was sought after and pineed trees ready for tapping were searched for in order to collect sap from the recent harvest. Swamp tack and supplies were collected and moved for the war effort, with a collection being taken by those who wanted to send more support.

Mad Morty and the Shepherd were sighted and even made an attempt to get close to the corruption site outside the outpost. Mordok activity continued all through the day as adventurers tried to unlock the secrets of the ulven orb. It eventually did activate once a nearby corruption idol was destroyed, and the orb recalled two adventurers through the mana stream and into the swamp. A search party was sent out and the two were found who apparently were recalled to a specific point. Upon digging into the ground, a cache was found containing some magical artifacts and notes from what appears to be a lorespeaker. In the cache was a well known saga and what appeared to be the original which featured ulven battling each other. The implication of the history of the ulven was profound, but more questions needed answers.

The mordok continued to be a real threat and the adventurers manned the defenses. Research continued on the materials recovered and hints and notes pointed towards a great mystery further west in the swamp.

Click here for pictures of the event!

== STORY ==
Pre-Event Summary:
After recent aggression reached its peak in the western Watchwolf settlement, the neighboring Clan Ironmound has become the focus of attention in the Ulven civil war. The Clan’s territory borders Clan Shattered Spear and the Pass in the Great Wolf’s Hackles and is home to many highly defendable locations and large amounts of high quality steel.

For a year, Clan Ironmound has expressed concern that they wish to remain neutral in the larger Ulven conflict. Their representatives have traveled and been host to several delegates from other Clans, and it seems that the Clan’s allegiance is highly sought after by both Clan Grimward and Clan Nightriver. Clan Grimward’s aggression and conquest of Clan Stormjarl territory to the south and the Watchwolf Clan’s settlement nearby have shown Ironmound how neutral clans are treated.

With the impending decision of Clan Ironmound in the near future, the ambassadors and leaders of their ruling elder council have decided to hold a feast and invite representatives from Clan Nightriver, the Coalition, and Clan Grimward. Hawks have been sent to these groups detailing a day and a location; one of the settlements near the Great Wolf’s Hackles. This meeting could decide the allegiance of Clan Ironmound in the Ulven civil war and could potentially be a major turning point for either side.

Post-Event Summary:
Representatives from almost all the factions of the Coalition joined Clan Nightriver and Clan Grimward to attend a feast held on neutral ground in Ironmound territory. As guests entered the area, they were a bit unsettled by Grimward’s display of force; camped within shouting distance were two well supplied and apparently well armed war packs of Clan Grimward. They had camped nearby as part of the escort to Wargah Grimward, the representative to Clan Grimward, who was the daughter of Haygreth Grimward.

Tension filled the feasting hall as Wargah and her guards took one side of the hall and the Coalition and Clan Nightriver took the other side of the hall. As the feast took place, tension eased a bit as everyone in attendance was glad to have a break from the fighting. Grimward and members of the Coalition even had discussions that remained amicable and everyone was a bit relieved at how the feast was progressing.

However, a different kind of battle was taking place and representatives from all sides of the war were doing a lot of discussions on involvement and what it would mean. Ironmound has long since stood for neutrality, but Grimward was applying a lot of pressure to make them join their cause. This was furthered by the discussions of Wargah, but many of the Ironmound fears were eased when reports of the Watchwolf defenders being shown mercy and even being cared for after the Watchwolves were conquered. This gave them hope that their people would be spared if a decision had to be made. On the other hand, the representatives from the Coalition’s factions and of Clan Nightriver had talks with the Ironmound Council of Elders as well, sharing stories of their defenses of other neutral clans and how Grimward has treated others and refused to listen to reason. They expressed many details about the war, offered aid where they could, and continued to push the stance that neutrality should be a choice for any Clan in this conflict instead of just pushing Ironmound to choose Clan Nightriver’s side. One of the Ironmound Elders had a son present that was afflicted by headaches and dreams, and members of the Coalition assisted the young man and even offered to provide aid to him regardless of the decision made by Ironmound. Many in attendance were worried if the Coalition guests were respecting their hosts and acting the way they were expected to, and several negative interactions with the Ironmound Elders made many worry about how it would influence their decisions.

The Council of Elders were conflicted on their decisions, seeing merit in both sides of the war and in neutrality. At first they discussed, then debated, and then flat out argued over the options presented. It seemed like there was a large rift between the Council of Elders present in at the feast and in Ironmound territory if the Elders cannot come to an agreement on a decision then the Clanleader must become involved. In the heat of the moment, one of the Elders made a bold move after arguing audibly in front of the guests in the dinner. This pro-Coalition Elder drew his sword and asked the Coalition to stand with him, after his opposing pro-Grimward Elder argued that taking a stance in the war, especially with the Coalition, was not the right choice. Those present sprang into action and weapons were drawn, the room suddenly threatening to erupt into violence. Wargah Grimward then used magic to recall the pro-Grimward Ironmound Elder out of danger, rescuing him after he expressed fear of being present, leaving her guards to the mercy of the room. A member of the coalition attacked the Grimward guards, breaking the neutral ground the feast was on, and forcing the decision even further for Clan Ironmound. Luckily the violence was halted as fast as it began, and none of the Grimward were killed in the fight. They were allowed to leave and were not stopped and they ran to their encampment as soon as they left the building.

In a flurry of activity, those present at the dinner came up with a plan to have most of their groups escort the Clan Nightriver representative to her encampment to link up with her warriors and for one group to escort the remaining Ironmound Elders and their followers to the nearby Ironmound village. The entire group quickly left the building and the plan worked; Clan Nightriver warriors were alerted and able to regroup at the village and the Ironmound reps arrived safely. The Coalition rejoiced in this victory, having earned another ally to stand against Grimward, but were fearful of the well armed Grimward war packs that would surely pursue them to the village. The Grimward camp packed up quickly and to everyone’s surprise marched south, spurred on as if driven by some new purpose, and avoided the village entirely. Once the excitement settled down, the Ironmound rep became concerned and worried… for he knew that he made a grave mistake in forcing a decision for the Council at the feast. He was worried about the repercussions of the Clanleader, who heavily favored neutrality in this conflict, and spoke to several that he advised the Coalition be prepared to do whatever is necessary to gain his favor and secure the new alliance.

The Clan Nightriver representative was also worried, knowing that unless acted upon quickly, the alliance with Ironmound could be lost and their Clan ending up joining Grimward now that the option of neutrality is no longer available to the Clan. As she attached a hastily written letter to the leg of a messenger hawk and let it fly south to Clan Nightriver territory, she made it very clear that this very moment and the decisions the Coalition makes in response to this is critical; failing to secure this alliance could be the tipping point in the war.

Click here for pictures from the event! (We also did a photo-shoot at Devil’s Lake State Park after the event too, which are included)

=== STORY ===
Pre Event Summary:
The northern half of Mardrun is a flurry of activity as the spring thaw begins to set in and the cold embrace of winter begins to recede. The Watchwolf Clan has endured the harsh winter just barely, with food supplies running low and fear and worry spreading through its populace.

The fighting from over a year ago was harsh on the Watchwolves; their farms were pillaged, their outer villages burned or captured, their warriors beaten through attrition against a larger foe. Although the Coalition and Clan Nightriver allies were critical in keeping the Watchwolves from losing their last main settlement, the victory that turned the Grimward conquerors back would only stall them for a time. When last year’s crop season produced meager food supplies and warriors were drafted from the young and desperate, Grimward was always there on the edge of the territory… waiting… a dark reminder that the Watchwolf Clan was never truly safe. The Coalition and other allies to the south have provided aid but numerous battles, raids, and different agendas stalled or pushed back any concentrated effort to help the Watchwolves rebuild or fortify their borders. Desertion and fear began to spread through the settlements but honor, pride, and constant reminders of the Watchwolves sacred duty to protect their lands against a shrouded prophecy kept them from fleeing in large numbers. The Clan’s leaders work hard to control the people, to steel them for the battle to come, and remind every member of the Clan to remain steadfast and to do their duty. Every able bodied Watchwolf, some barely of age enough to see their marks come in, is given a weapon and sent to join the war packs stationed around the settlements.

The recession of winter, normally a joyous occasion, is now a sign that battle is here. Clan Grimward’s forces spent the winter preparing supplies and amassing warriors on their northern borders, drunk on tales of battle and promise of conquest. Now, they mobilize and renew their campaign to conquer the Watchwolf Clan. Hundreds of warriors cross the border and move on the remaining Watchwolf settlements, spurred on after long months of waiting and preparation.

Allies to the Watchwolves fear that their pride and stubborn ways could spell disaster to its people; that an organized evacuation to their eastern settlement could spare the Watchwolves hundreds of lives but without an attempt to sway their leaders it will be hard to convince them of this. Rumors also spread, that the High Priestess of the Watchwolves has been in discussion about surrendering or joining Clan Grimward in the civil war.

The Coalition and Clan Nightriver have sent forces north to secure the pass and help in whatever way they can, but with the Pass no longer garrisoned by the militant clerics of the Order of Arnath’s Fist, it is now a race against time to see who will control such a vital route through the Great Wolf’s Hackles.

Post-Event Summary:
A group of Coalition members were able to slip past the Grimward warriors that moved to the Pass, and the soldiers that marched to the Pass were locked in conflict with them for control of the area. Upon arriving to the Watchwolf settlement, a battle was already underway but with reinforcements the Watchwolf defenders were able to hold. As the Coalition allies coordinated with the Watchwolves in the area, it was clear that there was discord among the Watchwolves. A young Chieftain, who wanted to look out for the survival of his people, was following the commands of an older Watchwolf Ambassador. It was obvious the Ambassador was there to instill courage into the hearts of the Watchwolf defenders and to keep them from fleeing from the fight.

After a few brief skirmishes, Khulgar Graytide made his presence known to the defenders in the area and approached via parlay to deliver terms of surrender written by Haygreth Grimward. Quarter and honorable surrender were given to any Ulven who stopped fighting and joined Clan Grimward. The defenders and their allies refused, remaining stalwart in their defense of the settlement. The fighting died down ominously, before signal horns were heard in the distance… the Watchwolf Clanleader finally gave the signal to move all remaining defenders into the settlement to hold out as long as they could.

The settlement was a chaotic swirl of supplies that needed to be recovered before they were lost to the enemy, pockets of fighting and swirling melees with warriors on both sides signalling reinforcements and reformations of their skirmish lines, and of civilians both rescued by Watchwolf defenders and their Coalition allies and being captured by Grimward invaders. In the beginning, the Watchwolf line was pushed back hard and the situation looked grim, but with the combined skill and equipment of the Coalition allies they were able to hold out far longer than the defenders thought possible. Wave after wave of Grimward defenders crashed on the defenders, but were driven back or repelled enough to stop Grimward’s advance on that part of the settlement. The rest of the settlement wasn’t doing as well, and the battle looked hopeless… it was only a matter of time before Grimward conquered the entire settlement.

Inside the defenders line, the discord that was brewing between the Chieftain and the Ambassador reached a bloody end, as the Ambassador was wounded in battle. After hours of urging the Watchwolf defenders to leave and save their people, the Ambassador was murdered by someone amongst the Watchwolves or the Coalition. What was certain is that it was an ally; what is unknown is exactly who it was, and it is suspected that the Coalition had a hand in it. The young Chieftain, no longer bound to obey the word of the Ambassador, made the decision to save as many people as possible and to evacuate and head south to the Pass. The remaining defenders, villagers, and wagons full of supplies departed the settlement. After a stubborn defense that would not yield to Grimward, the settlement was quickly taken by the invaders as the caravan left, nobody left to stop the Grimward from advanding into the heart of the settlement. The Chieftain was devastated by having made the choice he had, wondering if saving his people but leaving the settlement to fall was the best choice in the end.

The caravan was followed by Grimward invaders but due to the brave sacrifice of a few and the coordinated retreat by the rest, the caravan was able to leave the fighting area safely. However, several members of the factions present took a number of supplies from the caravan with them instead of delivering them safely to the Watchwolves, which was viewed poorly by the remaining Watchwolf refugees. The caravan reached the Pass safely, allowing the Chieftain to escort his people home to their eastern settlement.

Click this link for pictures of the event!

=== STORY ===
Pre Event Summary:
The Colony of Newhope leaders, the Council of Ten, periodically hold meetings to discuss matters of the colony and the overall settlers on Mardrun. Due to recent events and reports of things happening in the settlements, the Council has prepared for their first quarter meeting and have opened up invitations to a number of factions, guilds, settlements, and organizations. Normally, this is done on a bit smaller scale or by individual meetings, but this time the Council has bid everyone welcome to come and discuss matters with the Council.
However, the Council of Ten are also very important and busy people and must tend to the greater affairs of the colony. Representatives and Court Advisors have been selected to receive the diplomats and ambassadors to numerous groups and address their concerns and requests on behalf of a number of the Council members. Further appointments will be made directly with the Council based on the needs of those attending… and perhaps also based on the resources they are willing to share or the coin they are willing to donate… but these Court Advisors are given jurisdiction and resources to handle requests, solve problems, pass judgment on disagreements, initiate deals and alliances, and pay for goods and services.
As leaders and representatives brave the cold and snowy roads to attend these meetings to gain favor and secure resources for the upcoming year, many worry about what the actual agendas of the Council are behind the scenes.

Post Event Summary:
Numerous representatives were in attendance and under the strict guidelines and format of the Court Herald, many meetings and private discussions took place. Baroness Catherine herself was in attendance, as well as advisors or delegates for numerous Council members. During the open floor meeting, messages of unity and expansion were spoken to those in attendance, a letter reached the colony from the Pass saying it is being abandoned, and Baron Richard’s push for power made fully public. A member of the Estate Watch was arrested and carried out when he resigned his post, both an example to those in attendance that nobody is above Colony Law and that suspicious activities are being watched carefully. As the meeting ended, representatives and faction delegates left with pouches loaded with coin for services or details for future contracts and dealings.

For event photos, click here.

DECEMBER 265
==STORY INFO==
The Mordok offensive in March was a major blow against the Ulven people, and indeed the peoples of Mardrun as a whole. This new form of corruption brought by these foul beasts has proven extremely difficult to cleanse. Extraordinary effort by a few individuals has given relief to a select few, but so far the majority of those afflicted have had so settle with the mere hope of a cure. The city of New Hope has opened their gates to all who suffer this plague regardless of their background and despite the fact that they are clearly unequipped to handle a public health epidemic of this magnitude. No others on have extended assistance in this fashion. The crowds in the newly dubbed “plague district” have swelled to an untenable level following the harvest as all who have felt unable to travel due to the needs of home find themselves with a moment of reprieve. But now, with the first snows having fallen, the ill find themselves restless with the sure knowledge that no more of the lifesaving reagents needed in the cleansing rituals will be available again before spring. A feral mob has formed near the healing pavilion, and they demand to know how many of them can expect to see the cleansing rains of spring and how those lucky few will be chosen. One of New Hopes senior ritual researchers has been dispatched to the healing pavilion to work on a better cure and is requesting outside help, but their efforts may be in vain if the mob is not appeased.

==AFTER EVENT SUMMARY==The Mordok offensive in March was a major blow against the Ulven people, and indeed the peoples of Mardrun as a whole. This new form of corruption brought by these foul beasts has proven extremely difficult to cleanse. Extraordinary effort by a few individuals has given relief to a select few, but so far the majority of those afflicted have had so settle with the mere hope of a cure. The city of New Hope has opened their gates to all who suffer this plague regardless of their background and despite the fact that they are clearly unequipped to handle a public health epidemic of this magnitude. No others on have extended assistance in this fashion. The crowds in the newly dubbed “plague district” have swelled to an untenable level following the harvest as all who have felt unable to travel due to the needs of home find themselves with a moment of reprieve. But now, with the first snows having fallen, the ill find themselves restless with the sure knowledge that no more of the lifesaving reagents needed in the cleansing rituals will be available again before spring. A feral mob has formed near the healing pavilion, and they demand to know how many of them can expect to see the cleansing rains of spring and how those lucky few will be chosen. One of New Hopes senior ritual researchers has been dispatched to the healing pavilion to work on a better cure and is requesting outside help, but their efforts may be in vain if the mob is not appeased.The Mordok offensive in March was a major blow against the Ulven people, and indeed the peoples of Mardrun as a whole. This new form of corruption brought by these foul beasts has proven extremely difficult to cleanse. Extraordinary effort by a few individuals has given relief to a select few, but so far the majority of those afflicted have had so settle with the mere hope of a cure. The city of New Hope has opened their gates to all who suffer this plague regardless of their background and despite the fact that they are clearly unequipped to handle a public health epidemic of this magnitude. No others on have extended assistance in this fashion. The crowds in the newly dubbed “plague district” have swelled to an untenable level following the harvest as all who have felt unable to travel due to the needs of home find themselves with a moment of reprieve. But now, with the first snows having fallen, the ill find themselves restless with the sure knowledge that no more of the lifesaving reagents needed in the cleansing rituals will be available again before spring. A feral mob has formed near the healing pavilion, and they demand to know how many of them can expect to see the cleansing rains of spring and how those lucky few will be chosen. One of New Hopes senior ritual researchers has been dispatched to the healing pavilion to work on a better cure and is requesting outside help, but their efforts may be in vain if the mob is not appeased.The Mordok offensive in March was a major blow against the Ulven people, and indeed the peoples of Mardrun as a whole. This new form of corruption brought by these foul beasts has proven extremely difficult to cleanse. Extraordinary effort by a few individuals has given relief to a select few, but so far the majority of those afflicted have had so settle with the mere hope of a cure. The city of New Hope has opened their gates to all who suffer this plague regardless of their background and despite the fact that they are clearly unequipped to handle a public health epidemic of this magnitude. No others on have extended assistance in this fashion. The crowds in the newly dubbed “plague district” have swelled to an untenable level following the harvest as all who have felt unable to travel due to the needs of home find themselves with a moment of reprieve. But now, with the first snows having fallen, the ill find themselves restless with the sure knowledge that no more of the lifesaving reagents needed in the cleansing rituals will be available again before spring. A feral mob has formed near the healing pavilion, and they demand to know how many of them can expect to see the cleansing rains of spring and how those lucky few will be chosen. One of New Hopes senior ritual researchers has been dispatched to the healing pavilion to work on a better cure and is requesting outside help, but their efforts may be in vain if the mob is not appeased.
The situation in the so-called “Plague District” of Newhope proved to be more desperate than anticipated as groups from across Mardrun approached the city. Whether they sought to assist in the research, provide security for those dispensing the cure, or sought the cleansing themselves, the tension in the air was tangible to all in attendance. Rising emotions among the corrupted, desperate to be cured and return to their lives reached a boiling point that day as they argued with guards and guests of Newhope who struggled to keep the corrupted in check. Questions were raised about the fairness of Newhope’s methods of choosing who would be cured, as warriors began to smell the blood soon to be in the air. The progress towards a safer ritual which had been completed thus far was evacuated from the vicinity for fear of it falling out of Newhope’s grasp should a riot erupt, though it wasn’t until half of the reagents promised for the cure disappeared and what was seen by the corrupted as an unsatisfactory job or searching for the culprit that violence eventually broke out. Through the combined efforts of the Newhope guard and the other groups in attendance, the riot was quickly contained until reinforcements from the Newhope guard were able to arrive, and many of those driven to violence were spared, though wounded greatly. Many are watching now with bated breath to see what will come from this outburst, though no official statement by the city of Newhope has yet been released.

Click here to see pictures from the event:
http://s489.photobucket.com/user/Wolf-Recon/library/12_11_16_LH_NeedsofaFew?sort=9&page=1

Pre-Event Story:
Numerous groups and people travel freely through the roads that cut through the center of the Great Wolf’s Hackles. This mountain range stands forever as a reminder between the differing views of the ulven in regards to the colonists that now live on the continent. With the civil war over, transportation between the northern and southern part of the continent flows freely once again. The fortifications built by Clan Nightriver at the southern entrance and by Clan Grimward at the northern entrance are also reminders that the ulven stand divided. Regardless, Clan Grimward warriors keep to themselves but their cold demeanor at their fortifications are an obvious clue that travelers should keep pressing on instead of staying in the area for too long. Merchant caravans, couriers, ambassadors, and warriors all come and go through the Hackles and camp at numerous points along the road. This has allowed the road passing through the mountains to become a hub for information, on-the-trail trading, and banditry.

Who knows what news could find its way to the ears of travelers and what rumors could be learned about the larger world?

Post-Event Story:
As travelers from across Mardrun begin to set up camp along the road, conversations soon erupted among the multitude of groups in attendance. Each person carried with them a unique tale to tell, and many chose to spread the rumors and stories they acquired during recent travels. From the mouths of those from Newhope came reports of the growing crowd of corrupted outside the city walls, and the desperation hanging over them like a storm cloud. Escorted by the Order of Arnath came a number of displaced residents of Serai, nervous but eager to begin their new life across Mardrun. Pups promised to Pack Longfang were taught to fight, given a small taste of the ruthlessness that would soon confront them daily when they reached Onsallas village. An Ulven male, vocally supportive of Holmar Bloodmoon and his dissatisfaction with Branthur’s leadership, regaled any who would listen with tales of a “Fish Woman of New Aldoria”, though surely such stories are nothing more than fantasy: the sources cited couldn’t even seem to specify which half was fish and which was woman.

Though the air was filled with the crackling of the fire, the ringing of the blacksmith’s anvil, the murmuring of stories, and the songs of the bards, the evening sky was split shortly after the sun began to set, a shout and cries of pain piercing through the ambience. One of the many travelers who wore no allegiance on his person plunged a knife into another man, stealing his coin and fleeing into the woods. The scoundrel evaded capture for some time as a large group of adventurers hoped to track him down and bring him to justice, though he was eventually taken into custody, his life ultimately spared. This just goes to show that even in the absence of battle or conflict, one can never be too careful.

Click here for photos of the event!

==STORY INFO==

As the whole of Mardrun focuses on the trial being conducted at Starkhaven, there is another area offocus that has been generating more support recently. Marquess Madeline d’Argent has gathered thefunding and enough supporters to do apreliminary expedition into the Dirge Swamp. While she seemsto have the backing of Baron Montesque de la Aleine, rumors say that further Council support falls shortafter that. Some of the ulven Clans seem poised to assist if there is proof of this beingworthwhile buthave yet to fully commit. Some have claimed that Madeline’s push for this expedition in the summerheat is foolish and suicidal while others believe it is a way to refocus the people of Mardrun towards acommon enemy.Before public favor fora large scale swamp expedition begins to wane, the Marquess has put a call outto adventurers, mercenaries, and warriors to go into the swamp in an attempt to establish an area thatcould be used as a camp in the future. At this same time, allies to the north will begin a small scalemilitary campaign against the mordok and attempt to create a diversion. This should, in theory, allow asmaller expedition the chance to slip through as the mordok focus on the battles taking place. Theexpedition contract promises a good reward for being a part of the expedition and a hefty bonus shouldit be successful and there is a reward for supporting the military diversion to the north as well.The goal of the expedition will be to go north and find the old failed settlement of Pack Blackwing. ThisPack of ulven took on the challenge of trying to tame the swamp, went north to establish a settlement,and then either died or disappeared. Several years ago, an expedition in search of the syndar journalsfound one of their own villages and was driven off as the area was filled with corruption. This expeditionwill be tasked with finding it, clearing it of corruption, verifying if it can be used as a forward base campin the future, and searching for clues as to what happened to Pack Blackwing. The Marquess feels thatknowing their struggles will help them avoid or overcome them should a larger expedition take place.Whether it be coin to line personal coffers, honor with striking back at the mordok and the swamp, orquenching athirst of knowledge and discovery… the reward for this expedition is good enough to enticepeople of many origins, despite the level of danger involved.

==AFTER EVENT SUMMARY==

As the Newhope troops and their adventurer companions pressed deep into theSwamp, the land itselfseemed to protest their presence. Rain and mud slowed the caravan to a crawl as the ever-presentshadow of the Mordok could be felt all around. Emboldened by their purpose, however, the groupcontinued until they found the remains ofan Ulven settlement, confirmed to have once been theBlackwing Outpost of history some decades ago. The air itself was laced with remnants of corruption,sickening those who entered the outpost. It was through a combined effort of the clerics and mages inthe group that they were able to cleanse the stain upon the land as warriors fended off groups ofMordok hoping to disrupt their rituals. After a well-earned rest inside the newly cleansed outpost, thegroup departed once more to return to the south, hoping to return to Newhope with their findings. TheMordok in the area pursued the group, fighting tooth and nail to purge the intruders. While there werea number of casualties in the retreat, the majority of the group managed to escape to safety withknowledge of a possible foothold for future expeditions.

Pre-Event Story:
After negotiations took place for months, Clan Nightriver finally agreed to one of the terms set forth by their largest ally, Clan Stormjarl. After Stormjarl was denied reparations after they chose not to sign the recent treaty that ended the ulven civil war, a delegate on behalf of Clan Stormjarl had pushed for terms to paid for by Clan Nightriver directly. While still being negotiated, this agreement gave Clan Stormjarl two thirds of an island south of Nightriver territory, called the Fire Isle.

Home to the small settlement of the Phoenix, the Fire Isle is now the location of a major settlement building effort. Ships come and go with lumber, food, building supplies, and settlers. Some of the people of Clan Stormjarl have volunteered to move off the mainland and take up residence at the Fire Isle and will consider it home. This initiative represents a great step forward for Clan Stormjarl after it was damaged so greatly during the civil war against Clan Grimward.

The trading post of the Phoenix settlement has chosen to host a market faire; merchants have been invited to come and setup shop and sell their wares. Tournaments will be held as entertainment for those coming to visit, and invitations have been sent out for others to join. Fuhlka Stormtooth, Chieftain of Clan Stormjarl, is the current ranking leader of the new Clan Stormjarl settlement and is expected to make an appearance to meet their new neighbors. Prince Aylin, a longtime ally of the Phoenix and a fan of market faire events to expand political negotiations, has also replied that he will be in attendance. Several other delegates of some of the clans and the colonies may also be in appearance.

As the rest of the world continues to bear the brunt of rebuilding after the civil war or to defend against mordok raids and the new corruption (and some, both), the market faire stands to be a welcome and light hearted distraction for merchants, settlers, and visitors alike.

Post-Event Story:
As travelers approached the trading outpost of the Phoenix settlement on the Fire Isle, the place was alive and bustling with activity. Merchants from the mainland and representatives from numerous factions were on hand with booths and merchant spreads to buy, sell, or trade. The Prince of New Aldoria was seen at the beginning of the faire with an escort of Marines and New Aldorian guards. Also in attendance were representatives from Newhope and also from the Order of Arnath and Clan Stormjarl.

As visitors bought and sold wares, talked business, or just spent time interacting with each other, the tournaments took place near the trading post. Champions of combat and skill were chosen and awarded silver for their efforts. Overall it was a pleasant, but hot and humid, day on the Fire Isle as banditry was deterred or the remote location of the Fire Isle making petty thievery less inviting. Eventually it was observed that the Prince of New Aldoria and the Chieftain in charge of Clan Stormjarl’s interests were locked into a detailed discussion about business and expanding their influences and efforts. Rumors said that any involved in helping the ambitions of New Aldoria and Clan Stormjarl were likely to get rich or at least posture themselves in a good position in the politics of Mardrun.

Letters were received and read out loud to all those assembled and one letter in specific was written by the Hand of Arnath, the leader of the Order of Arnath. It detailed out the ongoing investigation into the undead scandal and then had listed a set of names of those wanted for their involvement in this matter. This was an official summons of those listed to come to Starkhaven and stand trial for what they have been accused of. It also detailed out the grace period of how long those accused had to willingly turn themselves in… or face the fines and penalties of having a bounty placed upon them for their capture. Tension rose at the faire as several of the people listened were in attendance, and an Inquisitor for the Order of Arnath was able to negotiate with some of them to come peacefully. However, violence did not break out during the event, several people were escorted away from the faire under Order custody and await the ship to take them the mainland to stand trial in Starkhaven. Many people watched and wondered where the trial would be, who would be in attendance, and who would be judge and jury.

As the faire came to a close, the newly appointed Baron of Key’s Crossing addressed the crowd and informed all in ear shot that the Colony of Newhope had acquired the notes on the corruption research and found a cure to the mordok corruption. Several adventurers from the Pack Longfang and Archon factions were named as helping with this research. Whispers taken away from the address hinted at a deal in secret that took place; some suspect that the Newhope representative bought out the research in the name of the Colony. Nevertheless, it was made known to all that the Colony of Newhope now has the cure to the corruption and intends to share with others.

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FIRST SCENARIO: To do One’s Duty
Pre-Event Story:
While rumors of the horrors of the new corruption (and the means used to stop it’s spread) move and morph at a speed that some feel “borders” on imagination, there is word of a village belonging to Clan Axehound that has stayed concernedly consistent. Tales would have us believe that the Clan has rounded up all affected by the corruption and forcefully quarantined them in a single location. Whispers abound that the conditions within the village have become untenable as the concentration of corruption causes what supplies that are delivered to spoil at an advanced rate. With the warpacks “protecting” the village, firewood for cooking and funeral pyres has become scarce. “Eye witnesses” claim that the residents of the village have resorted to using their furniture and even their houses as fuel for the fires. Dark speculation hints at a permanent solution being the only course of action available to Clan Axehound should the situation not change soon.

Post-Event Story:
Upon arriving at the Axhound village, it was immediately evident just how serious the quarantine was to the Clan. Ropes cordoned off an area to be a visible reminder of where the villagers were expected to stay and it was a clear guideline for any visitors where they could and could not go. Warnings were given by the warriors maintaining the quarantine were grim but clear… cross the line and you share the fate of the village. A few brave adventurers loaded with research notes and ritual details decided to take the chance and enter into the village in order to test the methods needed more easily. As time continued on, the research was slow at first but it appeared that a ritual was able to be created to cleanse individuals of the potent mordok corruption. Several volunteers from the village volunteered to be tested on with these rituals and although the methods to force the corruption from the body were becoming successful, the harm to those afflicted was severe. Several villagers died in the process, but there was proof that these rituals could work if refined.

Unfortunately, the impending cleansing with sword and fire of the village was too much for some villagers to bear. Desperation began to set in, and a number of villagers tool farming implements and utility knives and attacked the warriors maintaining the village. A brief but bloody fight left dead on both sides of this situation, and the Chieftain in charge of the quarantine made a proclamation to all within the village; come out and face death with honor, fighting to the death against his warriors one at a time. This bought the clerics and adventurers some time to try to continue the research and the rituals in the village. As the sound of honor duels and dying villagers rung out near the small fishing hut being used to conduct the research, a hard choice had to be made. Those involved needed to either trust in the Chieftain staying his hand and giving them time to refine the research which was so close to completion or to attempt to break through the quarantine and escape before the warriors could catch them. The second option was chosen and when most of the warriors were focusing on the honor duels, a number of adventurers made a break for it. Some managed to escape, presumably with the expanded ritual research, and some were caught and cut down during their flight. With no rituals, no research, and no chance to find a cure for the village, the Chieftain ordered his warriors to close in and the entire village was put to death.

SECOND SCENARIO: The Cost of Conviction
Pre-Event Story:
The Order of Arnath’s Fist concerned over rumours and direct accusations of necromancy at Serai has dispatched a fact finding mission to Serai. This small group has been tasked with confirming the presence (or past presence) of the undead, the penitent, or any other kind of corruption. If the accusations of unholy communion are true, the culpability of the population of Serai will be determined along with the involvement of any outside entities. Should the need arise, this party has been empowered by The Hand of Arnath to take emergency actions in defense of the greater good. The Order welcomes persons of integrity from varied communities to accompany this fact finding mission to act in the role of witness, but notes that any attempts to obscure the truth will be dealt with as the situation warrants. After months of rumors and disinformation, the Order sets its sights on finding the truth and dealing with this situation once and for all.

Post-Event Story:
The combined forces of the investigation team from the Order of Arnath, leadership from the new chapter of the Order of Arnath’s Light, and allies in the form of the Archons from the Spire all moved north to Serai. As soldiers moved nearby to camp, it was evident that the entire settlement of Serai had soldiers of their own; a ominous portent that should a fight break out, the escalation could be severe.

As a plan was formed and the investigation team briefed and preparing for their negotiations with the leadership of Bos Mezar, the investigation team moved into the settlement and went to speak with their leadership. Negotiations were terse and tense as the Order and their allies were not willing to back down and the leaders of Bos Mezar not willing for them to come in and destroy their undead. When a zombie being handled by a caretaker and a small child were brought forth to be witnessed, it became clear that a fight was evident. Both sides regrouped and prepared as neither was willing to back down. As swords were drawn, shields were formed, and the undead brought forth to bear against the inquisition, a cry went out from one of the Order scouts that mordok had been seen near the settlement. The close proximity to the dirge swamp could have meant the mordok attack was isolated and small. Although flanks were protected against this new threat, both sides closed the distance and the fight was on in full. Forces clashed against each other and soldiers began to drop on both sides. In the thick of the melee, more groups of mordok began to emerge deeper into the settlement and attack any close enough. The fighting was fierce; several lay dead or bleeding on both sides, and eventually the leadership of Bos Mezar was captured and the undead all destroyed.

With no time to rest, the group gathered as many civilians as they could and took any prisoners they could and attempted to retreat as the mordok poured into the settlement and laid siege to anything nearby. The investigation team, their allies, their prisoners, and any civilians they could gather all moved south towards allied forces and barely escaped due to mordok attacking them the entire way.

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== STORY ==
Pre-Event Summary
As the recent corruption around Mardrun continues to worsen, time is of the essence in a race to find cleansing rituals that can help. Rumors spread that this corruption can’t be stopped and that those afflicted have already started to die. What seems to be certain is that unless a cure is found, the death toll will continue to rise. The recent conference at the Bos Mezar outpost near Serai was able to gain some ground in researching the necessary components to find a ritual to cleanse this corruption. There still seems to be a long ways to go until it is discovered and able to be put into practice. Unfortunately with the short blooms of some of the rare reagents, those sighted near Serai have since wilted and other reagents must be found.

Some of these rare reagents are known to be seen elsewhere in the swamp and the most likely place for researchers to go is the village and outpost of Onsallas. The corruption site outside of the outpost, the one created two years ago by the Red Eyed Syndar, threatens to continue growing as the containment methods used by the Daughters of Gaia seem unable to continue to keep it in check. Research connected to this site might also provide useful in finding a cure for the recent corruption. However, mordok have besieged the Pack Longfang settlement for the last few months, their presence in the area unlike anything seen before. Rumors say that great tides of mordok threaten to overwhelm the village, but the reality is more likely that the presence in the swamp is more active than usual and has not disappeared back into the swamp. Small skirmishes erupt constantly between village defenders and the roving mordok. This poses a serious threat to anyone in the area as merely traveling to and from Onsallas is treacherous. Clan Spiritclaw has made the village’s plight known to others, asking for aid in either fighting the corruption nearby or pushing back the mordok so that they can continue their work.

With the recent research hinting at a possible cure and mordok activity so heavy in the area, adventurers will travel to Onsallas outpost to either continue their work on the research or to coordinate warriors to fight and push the mordok back into the swamp until reinforcements arrive.

Post-Event Summary
The day began with the sounds of battle as the mordok immediately besieged the outpost of Onsallas and tested the defenses. The walls were damaged and the outer fence was destroyed. The mordok presence in the area continued until reinforcements arrived; Clan Stormjarl warriors and volunteers from the recent campaign in Clan Squallborn territory joined the fight and helped push the mordok back. The defenses were tended to immediately as a plan was devised on how to accomplish several different goals.

The group of defenders and adventurers split their priorities and focused on different areas; some focused on continuing the research of the corruption ritual puzzles, some went out to try to gather the supplies and tend to the defenses of the outpost and the nearby village, and a few gathered a group to try and fight the mordok. The constant fighting and attrition took its toll on the outpost but the defenders were able to manage their equipment and make enough repairs and tend to serious wounds to keep functioning. Research was going well and the defenses and supplies tasks were completed quickly, but the mordok threat continued to loom in the distance. Only one camp was found and the mordok killed or driven off and without a serious push it seemed unlikely that the outpost defenders would make a dent in the mordok of the area. A thought-to-be-impossible ritual was conducted and was successful; a young Daughter of Gaia was able to cure the first survivor of corruption. Whether this ritual is a realistic weapon against the corruption is currently unknown.

The second day the group decided to continue splitting their resources and accomplishing tasks. The final tasks for the defense and supplies were accomplished and then the tasks for combating the mordok were attempted. Hunters and scouting parties went out to hold key points and keep them secure as mordok roamed the swamp and struck at will. Groups searched for rare reagents and returned them to be studied. The Shepherd was sighted among the mordok again, furthering reinforcing the dire portent of the mixing of mordok and colonists that turned to their dark beliefs. A letter arrived from Clan Ironmound, stating that he would pledge warriors to come to Longfang territory and help. The small lifeline that Clan Stormjarl sent via boat seemed to be just enough to keep the defenses going and more reinforcements were on the way. As time was about to run out, the group decided to be bold and make an attempt on the next mordok camp which was in the nearby pineed forest. Roaring battle cries and signal horns resounded as the group attempted to attract the mordok back to their camp and win in a decisive victory. Mordok came at them in the thick of the pineed trees, and a slow and tedious battle took place. When another group joined the battle, the mordok disappeared… spooked and driven off but not defeated. The outpost, lacking defenders, was raided and almost overrun by the mordok but remained standing.

By the end of the second day, the outpost defenses were back up and supplies were flowing well and the corruption research was almost complete. However, the mordok threat in the area was not defeated or damaged enough to drive them back, but some progress in fighting them had begun. The mordok presence will remain in the area around Onsallas for a while yet, until enough forces are brought to bear to kill and drive off the mordok.

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