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A large supply of pineed sap was delivered to the Watchwolves in a combined effort from the Mardrun Trading Consortium and Pack Longfang. A number of the Daughters of Gaia and the veteran soldiers are grateful to have such a large stockpile to help with the sick and wounded. Although morale increases in the western settlement, fear still grips the Watchwolf villagers as their need for supplies to help them through the winter and troops to guard their borders is still obvious. That and combined with continued reports of Grimward hunters being seen just outside the settlements and farms has the Watchwolves on edge. Rumors continue to spread about the Watchwolves pulling out of the war or leaving their lands, both having no base for truth at the moment.
Stormjarl continues to send letters and offer a handsome reward of coin, supplies, or other things needed in exchange for warriors to join their cause. News of this spreads like wildfire in the colony, as professional mercenaries talk over games of dice in taverns and pack their bags and head for the Stormjarl port. The lightly defended villages near the Stormjarl front line are attacked in full force by Stormjarl warriors and some of their allies, forcing Grimward to stubbornly defend or quickly abandon these locations. News of the counter offensive has yet to reach most of the colonies, but it is clear the Clan Stormjarl intends to fight for its land and has the coin to pay for help.
The ships on the horizon finally make themselves known and fly the colors of Clan Squallborn. Small ships, sleek and lean, combined with longships with hardened crews and veteran warriors are seen in the waters around Clan Stormjarl. Merchant ships returning to the colony talk of these Squallborn ships blocking and even openly attacking any ships in the area. Unless confronted in earnest, Clan Squallborn could effectively blockade Clan Stormjarl lands from getting help from Clan Nightriver and the colonies.
Stories of glory and bravado trickle in from the area near the southern border of Clan Whiteoak. Clan Axhound has led a series of daring raids on settlements and outposts along its border, routing several Whiteoak war packs and taking over some villages. Critical outposts further into Whiteoak territory were also struck by Coalition allies. If the success of the initial raids continues, Clan Whiteoak could be facing major losses to their supplies, warriors, and territories.
A large shipment of grain and food, bounties from the final harvest in Clan Goldenfield arrived in Nightriver territory recently. The wagons loaded with supplies were guarded with some warriors, but needed to fend off some minor bandit raids. No real attempt was made at stealing the supplies, but concern has been expressed that unless the roads are patrolled and a plan put into place for future wagons coming into the territory near the colonies to control the bandits, Clan Goldenfield worries about being able to safely reach its allies. This report also helps confirm numerous rumors of increased bandit activity, especially to the south east.
News of the settlement of New Oarsmeet being burned to the ground reaches the colonies. Survivors and refugees from the battle between the settlers in Oarsmeet and Prince Aylin’s soldiers attempt to find a new home. Some are given a place in the colony, others are offered work and a place in specific parts of the outlying settlements, and some spread rumors of revenge on the colonies of New Aldoria and Newhope alike.
The colony continues to prepare for winter and worry continues to grow. With the refugees from Stormjarl still in the colony and more arriving from Starkhaven and some failed outlying settlements, the tax on the food stores in the colony has risen. A small food riot breaks out, as desperate colonists steal food from the main market place. The City Watch on hand calm the group quickly without much of an incident, but it is proof that the situation in the colony continues to worsen. The price of supplies has sky rocketed as demand increases, as merchants seem to be blocking people from purchasing supplies. Some say this could be seen a natural price increase since supplies are valuable before winter, but others speak rumors of something more going on.
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Hawks arrive to numerous settlements, delivering this same message all across Mardrun…

To the Coalition of Allies,
I trust that this message reaches you well, and I look forward to working alongside you all. Your sacrifice and service to my Clan’s defense will never be forgotten and sagas of your prowess in battle will be sung for generations to come.
The Coalition forces here in our lands have been immensely helpful in protecting our settlements and defenses. Although we don’t understand your methods or your culture, we are grateful that the call for aid was answered when we refused to heel to Clan Grimward’s demands.
My scouts have brought information to me that Clan Axhound intends to raid against Clan Whiteoak and that they have been influential in convincing Pack Longfang to assist. I advise you to stay your hand in this course of action, as the real threat is on this side of the continent. Do not forget that Grimward’s campaign will not end with us; our scouts report that the battle line has thinned. It is obvious that Grimward warriors have pulled back away from our territories. They have either gone home or are potentially heading North… that I am not certain. Either way, there is an opportunity for my warriors to push back, to attack Grimward and free the villages and settlements that were captured last winter. My warriors have trained, rested and healed… and they want vengeance.
Last winter, I chose to stay out of a war. You sent me letters. Your allies sent me letters. You asked me to make the right decision and not be forced into submission by Clan Grimward. You promised aid and support and you made good on that promise. My lands were saved from destruction, but this war is far from over.
Almost half of my Clan’s lands were seized, looted, my people captured and taken away. Haygreth has dealt us a terrible blow and Clan Stormjarl will never forget this. I refuse to allow this to go on unopposed, to stand idly by and not try to free my enslaved people. As we speak, my Warleader Bolverk Stormjarl is rallying warriors to move north and attack Clan Grimward. We aim to free our settlement to the North of Grimward occupation. We have already begun striking back and will continue into the winter until the cold forces us home.
I call upon you again and ask that you send warriors and support to Clan Stormjarl territory and assist me in attacking Haygreth’s forces. I ask that the Coalition assist me here, where it matters, and help us fight back against Clan Grimward. I will gladly barter supplies or pay significant weight in silver for honorable warriors that will stand with me. While helping us defend our remaining settlements will be rewarded, we also seek warriors to help us take the fight to Clan Grimward and will pay more for that kind of service.
With Honor,
Graytir Stormjarl
Clanleader of Clan Stormjarl

Word has spread far and wide of the recent battles fought on the front lines of the civil war: Haygreth’s forces marched to battle after feigning retreat, moving in numbers unseen by the Ulven. Branthur personally led his warriors in a seemingly reckless charge to drive them back, hoping to cripple the opposing army into submission. Entering the battle outnumbered and unprepared, the Nightriver forces, accompanied and supported by units from throughout the Coalition, stood their ground in a valiant effort. Particularly through the sacrifices made by those commanding the rear outpost, drawing several Grimward warpacks away from the front lines to their position, was the Nightriver counterassault a surprising victory. Though many lost their lives that day, and many more will forever bear the scars of that battle, the day was one for Clan Nightriver and their allies.

In the end, Haygreth’s forces were forced back into their own territory and beyond, though with the chill of winter setting in, Branthur chose not to pursue them further, much to the ire of some clans who wanted to crush those they had come to see as invaders once and for all. Branthur has remained steady in his course of action, though, insistent on not stretching his army too thin and allowing Grimward to retaliate too effectively.

Branthur has made it known that there will be a meeting midway through the coming month in order to begin to talk terms with Grimward. This is the closest thing to a resolution that has been seen since the outbreak of the Civil War and should be cause for celebration, though not all are excited. Some of the allied clans have expressed their concerns with this meeting, worried that the talks will be focused on Nightriver and Grimward, leaving those on the outskirts to their own devices and defense. Axhound has stated their concerns that Whiteoak retaliation will pose a substantial threat to their clan. Stormjarl has demanded the return of their lands, and have hinted at the possibility of using force to take it back if need be.

News of this upcoming meeting spreads quickly, and has caused a surprising amount of turmoil in Newhope and New Aldoria. Rumors have begun popping up from tavern to tavern, accusing this noble or that of plotting to continue the war, treaty or not. Though many are simply bar tales designed to slander a noble with opposing political beliefs, some of the rumors make decent points: war is a rather lucrative business, and has led to rather substantial profits for those capable of taking advantage of it. In addition, having bored, unemployed mercenaries wandering the city streets could prove dangerous. That being said, the general populace is eager for an end to this war. New Aldoria, on the other hand, seems to have taken the opposite approach: Prince Aylin has made very public his hopes for a peaceful and expedient end to this conflict, despite protests from many of his merchants and mercenaries, who fear that peace will bring economic stagnation. Prince Aylin has assured them, however, that the end of the war will be nothing but beneficial for those loyal to New Aldoria.

Mordok activity south of the Dirge Swamp has continued to decline this month, almost to the point of disappearance. It has been weeks since hunters have stumbled across even the odd patrol of the beasts in the Great Forest. The hunters themselves are not complaining: a day with no Mordok is a good day, indeed. The Daughters in the area, however, tell a different story. The lack of activity is a troublesome omen indeed; if the Mordok are not here, where are they and what are they doing? Night guards to the north have reported a few instances of small bands of Mordok sneaking back into the swamp under cover of darkness, though they tend to keep their distance.

Winter draws near as the temperature falls across Mardrun, and many people are moving to act one last time before the chill sets in.
Reports continue to filter in to every significant settlement of soldiers wearing the green and blue of New Aldoria laying siege to the port village of New Oarsmeet. Many are fleeing for their lives, while others are pleading for help to defend their homes. They cannot hold much longer against a trained force such as they one they face, however, and require assistance soon or they will be lost.
Perhaps distracted by larger events to which the public is kept in the dark, the Council of Ten has remained surprisingly silent on the matter of these attacks. In fact, they have seemed rather inactive on many fronts as of late, although the logistics of housing and supporting the massive number of Stormjarl refugees has proven to be a monumental task in and of itself.
To make matters worse, the number of refugees from Starkhaven has only increased over the past month, the lack of aid sent to their homes discouraging many from staying. A major bastion of the human colonists, Starkhaven continues to support the many citizens therein, but those who have chosen to leave in search of a more steady existence have been an additional and rather unexpected drain on resources.
Clan Axhound, along with a number of warriors from Pack Longfang, have begun their raids on their ancient rival, Clan Whiteoak. With the Whiteoak warriors still fighting in Grimward territory, Axhound has been asking for support in raids of Whiteoak villages, leaving their warriors without a home to which they might return. Axhound has been glad to work alongside the Longfang warriors, though they are not convinced of the coalition and it’s intentions enough to fully declare war on Clan Grimward.
Reports have filtered in from Clan Stormjarl that they intend to retake as much of their homeland as they can before the winter sets in, and they are willing to compensate any who assist them. They urge caution, however, as traveling to them by land would require a trek through Grimward territory. They have also noticed a small fleet of longboats bearing the markings of Clan Squallborn dotting the horizon. They have not declared their intentions as of yet, although their presence has made many of the Stormjarl sailors uneasy.
Clan Watchwolf, granted a second wind in the form of a shipment of Pineed Sap harvested by Pack Longfang, has set about rebuilding their settlements, although the process is painfully slow and will certainly not be finished by the time of the first snowfall. They have once again pleaded with their allies among the coalition for any and all assistance, hoping to deter any further attacks from Clan Grimward, whose movements the Watchwolf scouts have noticed and reported in recent months, drawing dangerously near to the border before disappearing with great haste.

Painted on the walls of New Oarsmeet…

To all free people of New Oarsmeet, should Aldoria not cease their siege of our home, I have received word that we would be well received inside of Arragones’ district of New Hope. Find me there and I will do what i can to help set you up with work. Should we have to leave our home I implore you to leave naught of use to Aldoria, this includes food, buildings, and perhaps most importantly, the port.
It is better to see our city to ash then beneath the heels of New Aldoria.-Hollow

As the fall continues to get cooler and the trees change color, life continues on Mardrun as farmers harvest their crops. The quiet in the civil war becomes a welcome, if ominous, respite.
Reports have reached the colonies that soldiers wearing blue and green have attacked the settlement of New Oarsmeet. No further information is known, as very little information has been disclosed about what is happening.
The main colony of Newhope continues to provide aid and shelter for a number of Clan Stormjarl refugees, which is still proving to be quite a drain on resources and supplies. It has been impressive that the Council of Ten can work together to keep the colony running and helping these ulven refugees. Some boats have arrived with New Aldorian soldiers; they have returned to the Colonies from their time of defending Stormjarl’s last settlement. Amongst them are some of the City Watch of Newhope, rotating some of their troops home to see their families.
Settlers have arrived in New Aldoria and Newhope from Starkhaven, claiming that conditions continue to worsen. The Order’s supplies have run low and farmers have moved their families to other more prosperous settlements. It appears that after relations went south between the Order and their largest beneficiary (Baron Richards) they have returned to a financial and supply crisis. The Lions stationed in the pass at the Great Wolf’s Hackles continue to report that the pass is under control. Continued reports of organized banditry keep coming in and merchants are scared to travel with expensive wares, threatening to drive up the costs of goods in the future.
This month, Clan Axhound warriors have begun their campaign to raid against Clan Whiteoak territory. Their boasts of conquest and of fighting their hated neighbor are loud, but in reality the smaller Axhound clan will not be able to do major damage to the larger Clan Whiteoak without support from allies. This bold move on Axhound’s part may be a way for the Coalition to solidify another Clan as an ally in the civil war against Clan Grimward if the Warrior Chieftain’ of Clan Axhound are appeased. Clan Squallborn, intentionally remaining quiet and avoiding political talks, have recently mobilized a number of ships. Rumors say that their intentions in the war will most likely be made soon.
Watchwolf allies to the north have requested additional aid. They have said that with the previous raids on their territory destroying many of their farms and crops, they are fearing the winter if it is as cold as the previous years. Allies stationed in their settlement receive iron rations as the farmers and settlers can spare very little. A new militia is being trained by the handful of surviving Watchwolf warriors, but any further military attacks in earnest against their settlements will easily overwhelm these novice warriors.
Coalition members, primarily some of the factions and Clan Nightriver, continue to provide aid and support and coordinated with their newest allies; Clans Goldenfield, Steinjottun, and Shattered Spear. Their aid is much needed in the war and gathering their support has been huge for the Coalition.
Clan Riverhead and Clan Spiritclaw delegates met recently and sent a number of hawks to all of the Clans; their involvement in the civil war will remain neutral but they have joined forces to seek out the mordok activity in the Great Forest.
Rumors spread about Kragen Bloodmoon traveling to numerous settlements in Nightriver territory. Although the focus of the Clan has been feeding and caring for the Stormjarl refugees from last winter and patrolling and protecting the Clan Nightriver borders, the Nightriver Warleader has been overseeing a large training effort of new war packs that has been going on for months, making sure that weapons and armor are on hand for the new war packs. The colonists are happy to hear that Clan Nightriver is well supplied and has numerous war packs on reserve, but the Clan’s allies grow concerned that multiple calls for aid have not been answered yet.

Fighting on the front lines is intense during the first few days of the month as both sides attempt to push through before the winter sets in. Bare-chested berserkers from Clan Whiteoak clash against Longfang shields. Volleys of spells are loosed by the Archons standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Daughters of Gaia, only to draw the response of a rain of arrows from across the line. Clerics bearing the blue and white of Bos Mezar hold their ground beside those from the Order of Arnath’s Fist, meeting their opposition with a wall of steel, shields, and faith. With their green hoods as camouflage, several Rangers are able to get the drop on a unit of Grimward warriors as they approach the main battle, setting themselves up for a fight to aid the rest of the line. Wood splinters and steel gleams as the combined forces of Nightriver, Newhope, and New Aldoria stands firm against a wave of Grimward attackers, weathering the storm before returning the fury in kind. With little to look forward to save the red and gold of the Phoenix caravans bringing food to the camps, the hungry warriors are beginning to feel the desperation of this war, hoping to return soon and see and end of all this bloodshed. After the previous weeks of deadly combat, however, there is a surprising break in the fighting. Troops readily seize the opportunity to rest and tend to their wounded, though the leaders present remain wary and maintain their patrols. Shortly thereafter, scouts return, gasping for breath after their journey but quickly recovering enough to manage a smile…

News from the front lines arrives in a hurry, with couriers and hawks bearing joyous news: The Grimward forces are, in large part, retreating! The final push before the coming winter seems to have been a success, giving Coalition forces a much-needed chance to rest and recover. A number of Whiteoak and Grimward warpacks remain in the area, however, and are still cause for concern to those stationed on the vanguard. A general unease settles over much of the main force as they press the retreat, coming across a multitude of Grimward camps, all but abandoned: Tents are left standing, coals still warm in fire pits, the occasional bit of food or clothing left scattered about.

Clan Shattered Spear, eager to return home, has sent word through the many units stationed on or near their territory that the would be willing to discuss terms with any who are willing to hold their lines for the winter. Many among Nightriver have expressed a degree of disgust with such offers, insisting that Shattered Spear warriors should defend their own homes, not hire the work out to others. Tensions have been building in shared camps, and though neither side has been dissuaded from their points, these arguments have not escalated beyond words.

As news of the retreat reaches Newhope, a cry of excitement can nearly be heard blocks away from its source: Martingale Manor. Quickly, fliers are posted and distributed around the bustling city, inviting one and all to a gala to be held “in honor of the brave men and women who fought to bring this bloody mess to an end” near the end of the winter. Many lower-class citizens, however, have taken to the streets in what have as of yet remained non-violent protests decrying the wasteful manner of these parties, especially during a time of such need. The down-trodden in particular have not forgotten about the food shortage facing Newhope, despite the aid given by the Ravens and their agents in the city. Drastic measures may be taken, they warn, if these goods to keep the city from starving are squandered on an obscenely extravagant party to appease the whims of the wealthiest citizens. Martingale and other nobles have responded, insisting that the supplies they have received will be more than enough to last the winter, and that such an event will be good for morale and lead to higher yields in the months after the spring thaw. Concerns remain, judging by shortages from previous years, and more support would definitely be welcomed, though the city’s stores seem to be holding up thus far.

Despite being an early and reliable ally in the war, Clan Axhound has remained fairly quiet this month, with fewer reports trickling in regarding their current situation with Clan Whiteoak. The lack of information has many leaders worried, although Branthur has stepped in on a multitude of occasions to ease those concerns, assuring people that the nature of their relationship with Clan Whiteoak has likely caused them to be spending more time and effort on the war, rather than on their allies, and he feels it would be safe to assume the fighting has been dying down on that front as well, hopefully leading to Axhound returning to the war as a whole shortly.

Hushed whispers have been spreading throughout the front lines, following in Branthur’s wake: many warriors claim to have seen Kragen Bloodmoon himself, Warleader of Clan Nightriver, in custody. The reasoning for this has yet to be divined, although the frequency of these rumors lends credence to the story. Kragen’s personal warpack seems to have gone missing, although additional rumors claim they were branded and sent north to the Dirge Swamp to atone for whatever misdeeds could have led to such a harsh punishment with their lives. Worry spreads among the camp, although Branthur has announced plans to address the group as a whole when the time is right. He has requested the presence of a multitude of clans for the announcement, and rumor has it that even Clan Grimward’s presence has been requested.

The Truthseekers of Clan Spiritclaw have been hard at work attempting to locate any and all Lorespeakers they may be able to find, though their resources are stretched thin. Many packs have begun offering rewards for information that leads to the apprehension of a Lorespeaker, more for the capture of one alive. They insist that they mean to question those they find, although rumors of vigilante justice among other clans have led to some concern about Spiritclaw’s true intentions.

Clan Stormjarl, thirsty for vengeance for their fallen brothers and sisters, is eager to push into Grimward territory. Taking advantage of the situation, they claim, could set Grimward back on their heels enough to force them to surrender if they cannot withstand the winter. Stormjarl will be hard pressed to inflict any significant damage on Clan Grimward at this time due to their reduced numbers, but have been emboldened by the effectiveness of their tactics to remove any strategic value from the lands they once called home. Grimward-controlled villages, once in Stormjarl territory, have had their fields salted, their crops burned, and their walls sabotaged, making them more trouble to hold than they are worth. This has led to the vast tract of land spanning between Stormjarl and Grimward, colloquially known to Stormjarl as “Haygreth’s Scar”, a region of barren fields, charred remains of buildings, and an eerie quiet more deafening than the battles that led to its inception. Clan Ironmound, however, has seen enough blood shed for this year and is insisting that the Coalition remains in place, bolstering defenses in preparation for the Spring thaw which will inevitably bring more fighting, and have been calling for warriors and laborers alike both to hold the lines and begin construction on additional buildings in the area.

As the soldiers and warriors take full advantage of their small vacation from the fighting, their leaders remain unconvinced. While some are using this opportunity to build morale among their troops, others insist they remain vigilant. Grimward’s retreat seemed too hasty and premature. Until that day comes, however, time will only tell what the future holds for the Coalition…

Worry spreads in hushed tones across the continent this month as both sides in the Civil War see a dramatic increase in aggression, especially near the Pass through the Great Wolf’s Hackles. In a large-scale push to wound their opponent before the chill of winter forces them to stay their hand, Branthur Nightriver has once again put out the call for any and all who reside on his land to do their part to ensure a swift victory. Several of his warpacks, accompanied by those of his allies and the units sent by the Coalition and Colony armies have been able to make a solid push into Grimward territory this month, though the offensive has left them less able to defend some key positions, an opportunity that Grimward has seized with haste. Momentum has built on both sides, each refusing to back down. Even a handful of Lions from the Order of Arnath’s Fist, along with a unit of militiamen bearing the mark of Starkhaven have come forward offering their skills both on and off the battlefield, their resolve strengthened by the support gathered by the Coalition. The entire border that Clan Grimward shares with Clans Ironmound and Shattered Spear has become a war zone, often erupting into small hit-and-run attacks. Full-scale decisive battles have yet to rage, though the pressure building in the region surely means that it will not be long before they do. Several villages are raided on both sides of the war, each side eager to lash out at their enemy. The fighting is not confined to the Ironmound, Shattered Spear, and Grimward borders, however: Increased aggression from both Clan Whiteoak and Clan Axhound has been reported, both seizing an opportunity to harm their ancestral foe. Ships bearing the emblem of Clan Squallborn have been spotted in increasing number along the coasts, though the small clan’s territory itself has remained mostly quiet. By order of Graytir, Stormjarl warpacks have begun to retake their homeland in a bold maneuver, opting to burn the buildings and crops to the ground rather than attempt to weather the storm of Grimward invasion. This has led to a long swath of land being rendered unusable in the hopes that Grimward will be unable to use the land they have conquered. The massive movement spurred by the war is unrivaled in Ulven recorded history, both of warriors marching to the front lines and civilians evacuating their homes, which are no longer safe. Clans Grimward and Ironmound (along with their Longfang allies) released a number of documents recovered from a Lorespeaker cache deep in the Dirge Swamp recently, turning the concept of Ulven honor on its head. The documents – which seem to indicate that not only was it not taboo for Ulven to kill each other generations ago, it was not even uncommon – have helped to justify the bloodshed to some of the more eager warriors, no longer fearful of the dishonor they may face in the next life. Many, however, still cling to the ways they were taught, ready to defend their homes to the death, but uneasy about killing their own kind. The killing of their brothers and sisters was bad enough when it was kept to small border skirmishes, but now clans march to a war the likes of which has not been seen in generations, if these documents are to be trusted.

Without a solid effort to remove the invaders from the coastal Nightriver villages, warriors from Clan Whiteoak have been able to establish a foothold in unfriendly territory. With the bulk of Nightriver’s forces focusing on the front lines of the war, the berserkers have been able to raid and pillage virtually unopposed. A number of Chieftains in the area have urged Branthur to either help them or find someone who will. Such a task will surely not be as easy as it may sound, however, as reports have surfaced that the Squallborn ships, which originally deposited the troops on Nightriver soil, have remained in the area as well.

A number of Lorespeakers has already been captured and turned over to Cahal Spiritclaw and Branthur Nightriver, who have set about the delicate task of learning the truth from those who have proven themselves liars. The will of the Lorespeakers already captured seems to be stronger than anticipated, however, and efforts to extract information from them have proven relatively futile thus far. Threats of violence, shame, and even death seem not to faze the captives as they would a normal Ulven. Branthur has continued to offer rewards for the capture of any living Lorespeakers, however, hoping that one of them will reveal the true depths of their deception in due time. Many Ulven feel betrayed by these supposed historians, who appear to have willfully deceived the Ulven people for generations about their true history. As a result, vigilante justice continues to pop up in some of the more remote locations of Mardrun, the perpetrators eager to have their sense of vengeance appeased. This anger, justified or otherwise, has begun to spill over into other groups, however: A handful of reports indicate that a number of Truthseekers have gone missing in the past weeks, with others voicing their disapproval of the group’s inability to discover a lie of these proportions.

Newhope continues to struggle to maintain their level of involvement in the war, eager to not be outdone by New Aldoria. While they have communicated with Branthur and respectfully scaled back their shipments of food and supplies, many in the colony fear it will not be enough. Lord Baron Richards has swallowed his pride and put out a call for help, asking other settlements to pledge supplies for Newhope so the colony can survive the winter. If insufficient resources are gathered or promised, the colony will need to drastically reduce their involvement at this critical point in time.

Reports of Mordok acting strangely around the Great Forest continue, drawing the attention of several packs among the nearby clans. Ever the cunning predators, the Mordok have been eschewing their normal ways and completely avoiding all combat with the Ulven, focusing instead on their task at hand. Almost as if with a singular mind, the Mordok continue their exodus with relentless drive towards their goal: North.

A letter, hand delivered by a young Ulven dressed in brown with accents of the blue and black of Nightriver, arrives at each of the major settlements inside Nightriver territory. Others in more distant locales receive a hawk bearing the same message.

“To my allies, friends, and brothers among the Coalition,

The time has come for us to end this war. Recently I made it known that if you were to continue to live on my land, you would contribute to the fight, and you have done well in that regard. Now I must ask you once again to dig deep into your stores, your coffers, and your barracks for one final assault before the winter comes.

This coming month will be the most crucial to date. We must strike as deep as we are able into the Grimward war machine before the winter sets in. In doing so, Grimward will be forced to retreat and lick their many wounds while trying to survive the colder months. With any luck, they will soon realize the error of their ways and sue for peace, an outcome we can all revel in.

If you have troops, send them. If you have food, send it. If you can afford mercenaries and sellswords, send them as well. Any and all resources can be used, and your involvement will be rewarded once the day is ours.

The Ulven way is to run towards our problems, not away from them. That is precisely what we will do, and may the Great Wolf’s ears ring with our names before the day is through.

Fight with honor, brothers!

Branthur Nightriver,
Clanleader of Clan Nightriver”

The continent of Mardrun is eerily quiet. What culminated into a brutal and bloody fight in Stormjarl territory over the winter has turned into a quiet break from the chaos. Spring and summer both have come and gone; warriors nervously watch the horizon for the next attack and farmers work their fields while looking over their shoulder for raiders who might attack them and their property. The defenses around the last remaining settlement of Clan Stormjarl held against the crashing tide of Clan Grimward invaders in the spring and then… nothing. Scouts and hunters report that Grimward forces remain in the conquered territory. Rumor has it that Grimward, without anyone to contest their control of most of Stormjarl’s territory, has isolated and conquered all the villages and remaining settlements. Looting of anything useful and even the capture of Stormjarl villagers seems likely. Clan Stormjarl is in no position to retaliate and take back their territory and instead has tried to recover from the fight, gather as many supplies as possible, and continue to expand on their defenses. The Yurnai River remains decimated; with all the bridges still destroyed Clan Stormjarl is effectively cut off from the rest of the continent unless they travel by sea.
The Watchwolves have sent word that the civil war in their territory has also been quiet… Grimward continues to wait just outside of Watchwolf territory after being beaten back by coalition forces. Just like to the south, Haygreth’s forces have been eerily quiet. The Watchwolf leaders believe he is preparing to renew his attack and if they press North into Watchwolf territory, it is feared that the settlement cannot hold out further. This western half of the clan spent the spring and summer licking their wounds and trying to recover from their stand against Grimward’s army and is not prepared to fight again. Rumors say that the Watchwolves may attempt to speak terms with Haygreth or that their involvement with the war may end soon… but nothing has been confirmed and the political representatives to the Clan have been quiet about the subject. Without additional allies, they will not be able to hold for long… isolated on the other side of the Hackles, the Watchwolf Clan has some hard decisions about their stance in regards to the war and how they will continue to be involved. The calm in the civil war has been a welcome respite for most of the clans and settlements… but after Haygreth’s conquest of Stormjarl being such a success, his thirst for power and his quest to be rid of the colonists is not likely to be ended anytime soon. Now the warriors stationed on the borders of their territories wait, day by day, for when and where they will see the invaders strike next.
Delegates from the Clans have sent several messages, and it seems like the political front is going well. Clan Squallborn continues to remain aloof along with Clan Riverhead. Clan Shattered Spear, impressed with the soldiers of Vandregon and the Rangers of Crow’s Landing helping them with their bandit problem, have pledged their support to Clan Nightriver. Clan Steinjotten and Clan Goldenfield have been assisting Nightriver and solidifying their alliance. Clan Spiritclaw remains neutral in the war as does Clan Ironmound, but rumors have said that Ironmound will most likely choose a side soon. It is speculated that the leaders of Clan Ironmound fear becoming the new frontline if the Watchwolves fall, and may choose to join Grimward in their cause to avoid Clan Stormjarl’s fate. Clan Axhound has boasted that they will join the Alliance as long as they have allies that will join them on their raid against Clan Whiteoak who continues to support Grimward’s war. Clan Nightriver continues to support its allies, maintain its borders, and attempts to absorb the immense burden of housing thousands of Stormjarl refugees. More solidified lines are being drawn across the Ulven clans on the continent.
Strange reports continue to float around and rumors of a large mordok force still moving in the great forests of Mardrun. Ulven hunting parties have vanished and a call has been sent out by Clan Whiteoak and Clan Riverhead to form a war part from nearby Clans to seek out this threat and destroy it. With all of the alliances being drawn by the Clans, this course of action may be difficult.
In the colonies, Prince Aylin continues to expand New Aldoria at an alarming rate. His apparent wealth and thriving colony is collecting people and new settlers all the time. The Colony of Newhope is taxed to the brink caring for all of the sick and wounded Stormjarl refugees. The poltical power struggle between the Council of Ten appears to be on hold for now, but rumors say that it will begin anew and major changes will be coming in the future. Nobles whisper in hushed towns at meetings and gatherings as to who they believe is dealing with whom and what the outcome may be.

The Coalition army has been able to clear the pass and has connected with Ironmound forces to form a northern front along the southern border of Clan Ironmound’s lands. Grimward forces have responded with increased aggression along the entirety of the line. What had in the past been sporadic attacks by individual units, have become have become more complex and coordinated with the goal of forcing gaps in the line which are quickly taken advantage of by forces held in reserve.
Although the last of the Coalition carts in the pass was able to escape the bandit force and deliver its supplies through the aid of nearby adventurers, the combined leadership on the northern front recognize that their local stockpiles will be insufficient to last until snowfall. The local leadership have called on any who are able to provide help in procuring, transporting, and protecting supplies for this front.

Two warpacks from Clan Whiteoak have covertly landed on Clan Nightriver’s shores with the help of Squalborn ships. These warpacks have already burned a small fishing village but did not kill the inhabitants. Farmers in the vicinity have been overheard planning an early harvest, stating that it is better to reap the crop before it’s time then to risk it being burnt in the field. As of yet, there has been no plan on how to deal with coastal attacks by Clan Nightriver’s enemies.

With all of the commotion elsewhere in their territory, a frightening occurrence goes mostly overlooked within the confines of Clan Nightriver’s lands. The remains of a third Squallborn ship made ground, this one a few miles west of Crow’s Landing, bearing no survivors and many scars from a fierce battle. Those who investigated the wreckage related vicious lacerations, infected wounds, and scorch marks on both of the corpses found lashed upside down to the wreckage.

Daughters of Gaia from Clan Riverhead have drawn the ire of the leadership of Clan Goldenfield, stirring the fears of many farmers in the area. The Daughters claim that the blight which impeded Goldenfield’s harvest last month was retribution from Gaia herself, seeking to punish her children who had strayed from her path. Ever the gracious and loving mother, she would not be as cruel as to outright kill her children, but by limiting their food supply, she would remind them of their place. The Clanleader of Goldenfield has reassured Branthur that he has no intention of removing his clan from the alliance, despite what their neighbor’s Daughters may claim.

Reports of lone Mordok sightings have started to trickle in from clans bordering The Great Forest. None of these reports would be of interest separately as Mordok are not uncommon in the area. All of these reports mention that without fail each of the individuals are headed north with some haste. Some reports note that the Mordok have failed to attack even the unarmed.

Hope surges within Clan Stormjarl as an entire village is freed from the yoke of Grimward occupation. A handful of hunters working behind enemy lines and allies that landed on the shore to assist them were able to defeat the guards keeping the village under control as a work camp and escort them to safety. These villagers and warriors were transported along the coast to safety in Stormjarl villages who are already crowded, but willing to shoulder the burden to see some of their own returned to them. News reaches the villagers less than a week after they make landfall that the Grimward solders they left alive decided to burn the village rather than be forced to stand guard over empty houses and fields.

Following the release of many documents detailing the true history of the Ulven people, a joint effort between Clans Nightriver and Spiritclaw has been formed, seeking any information regarding the Lorespeakers. Rewards have been offered by both clans for information leading to the discovery of these traitors, with substantially larger rewards for their capture, assuming they are kept alive. A number of smaller packs, namely among Shattered Spear, have taken matters into their own hands, branding and severing any Lorespeakers they come across.

In the fervor to press for a swift and decisive victory over Clan Grimward in the Pass, the colony of Newhope’s clerks seem to have overlooked their current inventories. Afraid of the repercussions of the war front losing supplies, the colony has put out a call to the smaller settlements in the area, asking them to dig deep and send whatever can be spared for the war effort as the colony will soon need to address the issue of its dwindling storehouses. As the civil war increases in intensity, the need to feed and supply troops in the field could be one of the most critical points of this conflict.

After April’s slowdown in the war, May has turned into a waiting game of helping refugees, reinforcing Stormjarl with supplies, and basically just a bit of breathing room as factions and clans focus on the upcoming summer growing season. Day to day life takes over again, but everyone keeps an eye on the horizon for what comes up next. Settlements see to their villages, colonies to their people, and trade and merchants continue to flow.

Reports from the frontline trickle in saying that Grimward continues to camp outside of the battle line between them and Stormjarl. The conquered settlements are ransacked entirely, giving Grimward riches, supplies, food, weapons, and shipbuilding materials.

More reports of Mordok activity in the great forest reach different clans, and a large tribe of Mordok moved towards Onsallas where a large skirmish broke out. Between the defenders of the village and some of their allies camped nearby, the attack is barely repelled. Dozens upon dozens of Mordok hit and run the combined forces and then disappear back into the swamp… their true purpose unknown.