From the Wall to the Sea, we Conquer (PT/FanT, Lost Age, IC)

[Honorisia]

This RP is a part of the Lost Age RP community. We are a past and fantasy tech group. You can join (or just watch us bicker) here. Whatever you decide, please don't post in this unless you are accepted and have asked my permission first. If for whatever reason the link is broken, send me a TG. DO NOT MAKE AN OOC POST IN THIS THREAD

"As one we are weak, but together our strength is unstoppable."

-Hadley Caron to a subordinate

http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=fn5pja&s=5

Naradian relations with its eastern neighbours have always been stormy. With the Pylaen Empire in control of the northern peninsula and the 4 constantly warring kingdoms of Eros to the east, the Naradians have never been able to gain control of an eastern sea port. That was about to change. The 30,000 strong Royal Expedition Force had been dispatched from Kelt. Alongside the Royal Navy, the massive fleet of barges sailed around the two northern reaches of the coast, passing the Pylae peninsula. The fleet gathered around Orinsburg, preparing for a massive landing of troops on the port city. Three ships detatched from the fleet and sailed south, hoping to land in the capital of Stettia.

The barges sat low in the water. Thousands of rowboats plowed through the rough sea, transporting thousands of warriors onto the beach that was already swarming with Northmen. The rough wall of shields already repelling the beginnings of the Erosian response. Hundreds of bodies lay on the beach, mangled nearly beyond recognition. Most of the corpses were cloaked in the traditional dark red garb of the East Erosian king. The boats landed on the beach again, disgorging hundreds of men onto the already bloody beach. The battle of Orinsburg Beach was underway.

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Eros is technically one kingdom. Around the time that the Naradian humans were gaining their independence, the king died without naming an heir. His four sons each claimed that they were the true heir. A civil war ensued and the country was carved up into 4 separate entities, each ruled by the different brothers. It is a nation in constant war. The 16 million people that call Eros home are constantly under threat of invasion from their brothers. They have never been on good terms with the "sleeping giant" that is Naradia. That is, until now.

The Eastern army is the second most powerful force in the history of Naradia. It's numbers sit at a ridiculous 71,000 men and rising. More men arrive daily to serve with the Freemen and earn their glory in the wars. Aurvald was one such man. He was a part of the massive surge in volunteers joining the army in a rush of nationalism and expansionism. The entire force, all 71,000 men were moving east. Columns of armoured men marching through the countryside, burning every farm that resisted the unstoppable march of Northmen. "Comany halt. Make way for the lord." Aurvald pulled aside, the formation following his move. Lord Hadley rode past, the horsemen following him trampling the ground behind him. "Resume march." The company moved back onto the dirt road, watching the cloud of dust retreat on the horizon. Aurvald was pulled back onto the road alongside the rest of the company, rejoining the army's long march to Bullridge. There, it would split in two. Lord Hadley would take half of the army north and capture Broddring. King Joren would lead the rest of the army south for Huntinville.

First they would have to make it past the army blocking their path. Positioned on a grassy knoll, the 40,000 men of North Eros stood in defiance. Their king's banner flapping in the wind above the center of the army. Aurvald could see the Naradian troops forming up, battle lines being drawn and the troops preparing for war. The war was about to take a turn for the worse, what was left to be decided was which side would get the worst of the war.

[Honorisia]

Sometimes, enemies must become friends. Otherwise both will be ground down by the conflict. Form a peace and both will benefit. Form a peace and we are strong.

Anna and Gwinnett stood at the window of their cabin, watching the twisting coast drift by. The massive drum boomed in rhythm, driving the oarsmen onwards. The ship cut around the last but of coast and turned into the mouth of the Stett river. Anna left the window, sitting down gently on her bed. "Gwin? What are we doing here? Brother wouldn't tell me." Gwin, the older of the golden haired twins laughed. "Oh, the most regal and noble Lord Hadley? He suggested to the king that we serve as diplomats on this most important mission." Gwin left the window as she spoke, opening the heavy wooden box on the room's desk. She pulled out an extravagant looking necklace and draped it over her neck. "Stetthia? The Minotaurs? What could they have to offer us?" Gwin laughed softly. "Sweet sister, use your brain instead of your looks for once. What are minotaurs?" "Big horned beasts?" "Very right you are. Now, what is brother so occupied with?" "The invasion of Eros." Gwin's face showing her exasperation with her twin's slow mind. "Are we to get the minotaurs to fight alongside us?" Gwinnett clapped her hands together, and patted her sister on the head. "Good. You've figured out the blindingly obvious reason we were sent to Stetthia." Anna sat, dumbfounded, on the bed. "You mean he didn't even send us with a written set of orders?" Gwin sighed and shook her head. "Of course he did. You've just been too preoccupied with throwing what you've eaten into the sea to read it." The twins glared at each other, obvious tension filling the room. A loud knock came at the door. "M'ladies, we should arrive in Stetthia within a few hours. If you would please ready yourselves for our arrival."

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Aurvald was in his position with the vanguard. 7,000 Freemen stood at the forefront of the invasion force, most armed with an axe and cloaked in chain mail. A savage drum began to beat, whipping the crowd surrounding Aurvald into a frenzy. Axes and shield collided, making enough racket to wake the dead. The thunderous clatter stopped, leaving a silence that seemed to fill the world. Thirty men on horses rode out from the formation of Northmen, forming into a column bearing the colours of Caron and Railius. A low, deep note sounded from a massive horn. It startled the horses into movement. The Erosian lines stirred, separated and disgorged a band of their own horsemen. The two groups of riders met in the middle of the empty field. Dorian's deep musical voice boomed over the sounds of whinnying horses. "The High King of Naradia, Emperor of the North, Lord of the Snowbound Throne, and Lord over the living and dead wishes for a parley between our parties. Let it be known that King Joren Railius does not wish for violence. He wishes for a peaceful solution to this conflict."

The Erosian king was massive. He was short and plump, his body fattened from a lifetime of luxury in his palace. His horse looked like it was barely able to stay on its feet. The North Eros king slid off his horse, followed by several of his nobles. "I am king Gurad Eros III. You must kneel and pay your respects before you are given a parley." The speech itself was intimidating, but the man giving it was in no way imposing. Joren stepped back, furious at the plump man. He looked at the nobles around him, gauging his options. "The man in front of me is no proper king. He grows fat in his castle, living off fruits of luxury that no rightful king in these northern parts should taste over his own vassals. I tell you truly, the men who kill this weak willed creature will be rewarded. I will reward you so greatly. The man that kills him shall be given a place among the Great Houses of Naradia. You will be given a place on the Council of Men and status in the greatest empire the world will know. All I ask is that you throw down this pathetic animal and give me your loyalty." The lords looked at each other, then as one they stepped behind the king. The plump man laughed, mocking the young man. "It seems that your offer of peace has been refused. Go back to your snow houses and rot in the ice." The King motioned for his men to follow him. After a moment of hesitation, the lords followed him. Joren thought that one of the men gave him a curt nod as he walked away.

[Angle Empire]

Stetthia city
The foreign ship went down the river about 20 miles from Stetthia city. THe ship had a similiar design to the trading vessels from Naradia, so they assumed that was where they were from.
Word reached the king's palace by messenger. The palace was huge, hundreds of feet tall with pillars soaring into the skies. The golden doors of the palace opened slowly to let the messenger in.
Opticus sat upon his golden throne, the throne was 25 feet above the ground with small steps leading down. Art and plants covered the entire room, with honor guards lining the chamber. The queen was away at Minopolis on business, but several of the king's advisers were present.

"What news do you bring, loyal messenger?" Opticus said.

"Diplomats from Naradia, my Lord! They have just landed and wish to talk with you!"

"Send them in when they get here." Opticus replied. "Alazad, my friend, what do you think they plan?"

The old, wise Minotaur stood out of his chair and said, "Hearing the news of the war in Eros, i believe they are asking for assistance. They may take us at first glance as stupid, unintelligent beasts. I recommend you state your offer and then state your demands. The territory of Happernia would be a vital defense position against the Trolls."

"Thank you Alazad, your suggestions will be considered."

"The visitors have arrived!" a guard said.

"Show them in" Opticus replied.

The 2 humans walked into the chamber , Opticus stood and walked down the steps. His satin robe flowed behind him like the Stett river itself.
"Greetings, visitors, welcome to Stetthia. For what reason have you come to see us?"

[Honorisia]

Gwin dropped to a knee a moment before her twin did. "Your Grace, we bring a message and an offer from our king. Emperor Joren Railius has need of your warriors. Surely you have heard of our struggle in the north. Eros stands divided and our lord wishes to unite it under the banner of the Naradian empire. Happernia is strong, too strong for the force we are sending to attack it. We require the assistance of your great warriors. If you aid us in our attack on Happernia, then we will give you free reign over West Eros. All the territory under rule from Happernia would be given to you as a token of goodwill. As well as the joint invasion, my King bids me give you his second offer. We will give you a trade agreement with our great nation. My people have great need of food stuffs. Your people do not posses the manufacturing abilities of my people. A free trade agreement would benefit us both. As well, you would be given right of deposit in Orinsburg, Carrast, and Gudbrandstahl. A military alliance, including a mutual defence pact would strengthen both our great nations. " The kind faced girl hesitated a moment before continuing. "My sister would serve as the Naradian ambassador to Stetthia. We would allow you to place an embassy in Orinsburg once we have captured the city. What say you to our generous offer?" Gwinnett finished reciting the terms sent by her king. Anna glared at her evidently wanting to say something.
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Thousands of bodies lay on the blood soaked beach. The crimson liquid flowed into the sea, creating a wall of foamy red waves. Past the beach, onto the coastal plains that surround Orinsburg, the massive army of Northerners sat encamped. The dark grey colours of the Strahns flying above the command tent. Barges were being pulled ashore and dismantled to form the beginnings of several siege engines. Great battering rams, ballistae, and trebuchets taking form around the Erosian city. Already, the army had cut off the road out of Orinsburg. The Naradian Navy, after a vicious battle outside Orinsburg's harbour, had set up a blockade of the trading port. Orinsburg was completely cut off from the outside world. The siege of East Eros was underway.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Joren and Hadley rode together, their honour guard following close behind. "Your Grace, that was foolish. The lords will never betray their king if that's the offer you give them. Lands, titles, gold. That's what we need to offer." Joren looked to his friend, calm and reassuring. "Do you think I intend to mortgage my realm to conquer this insignificant kingdom. No, I will offer one lord a place on my council and that will be sufficient. Ambitious lords are all the same. With enough persuasion, I'd bet that even the Strahns with their precious honour, would bend the knee to a different lord than I." The two men reached their own ranks, the sea of men parting to allow them through. As Joren rode through the crowd, he called out to the various commanders. "Prepare yourselves, we attack at dusk."

[Angle Empire]

Otmin was most pleased when he heard the offer of the Humans and replied. "I am sending a 60,000 strong invasion force into western Eros and a 20,000 strong one into Huntinsville. This will stretch the forces of Eros and make it easier for you to take the eastern lands. When we are successful in the west, we will push deeper into Huntinsville. We will assist you if you also promise us the southern province of Huntinsville. When you're successful, we will help you build a magnificent port in the east. Our architects are most skilled.
We have heard much of the rich mines in Naradia, our mines are rich, yet few. We will trade food for metals and minerals.
This idea of a military alliance sounds tempting, we will accept if you declare the Trolls an enemy."

[Honorisia]

Gwin smiled, nodded then continued to speak. "Your Grace, I humbly accept your additions to our offer. Our only point of centention would be the secession of South Eros. The city of Huntinville will stay under Naradian control. Perhaps joint occupation of territory south of Huntinville would be appropriate?"
____________________________________________________________________________________

Joren looked over the battlefield from his command tent. The sun sat low on the horizon, burning a dull yellow. Joren turned to Hadley and whispered a barely audible command. "They defy me, even while they know that they cannot win. Kill them my friend, kill them all." Hadley bowed then exited the tent. Hadley walked his way through the retinue that was sworn to guard himself and Joren. He waved the man holding the massive war horn in. The soldier stepped forwards and saluted. "Radt, sound the attack." The soldier brought the massive horn up to his mouth and sounded a clear, loud, and deep note. The note started the savage beating of the drums, whipping the Naradians into another frenzy. The beating noise of shields and swords meeting in harmony intimidating the very earth into submission. Thousands of carrion eaters scattered, scared by the sudden outburst of sound. "For the King. For the Empire. To glory!" The vanguard charged, followed by the slow march of the main host.

[Angle Empire]

"You may have all of Huntinsville, but because of this, we will be moving the 20,000 strong force to join our larger force, we have made calculations that losses would be heavy if we wouldn't do this. It was most pleasing talking to you, but i have other matters of state to attend to, good day." Opticus sat back down on his throne as guards escorted the diplomats out of the chamber.

"Alazad, what do you think of this new alliance with the men of the north." Opticus said.

"It would be good to have a common enemy against the Trolls, though i think men would be crushed exponentially by them. And the mines of the north will increase trade and grow the kingdom economically. Now, my Lord, i recommend you decide what generals and what forces will go on the journey."

"Ah, yes, i have one in mind. Tarvan the Sixteenth will lead the campaign. He himself may decide other officers."

Opticus began to write a list of forces to send, the list went like so:

18,000 Kopesh Warriors
16,000 Axebearers
12,000 Orticus
10,000 Archers
7,000 Crossarchers
10,000 Mounted Riders
4,000 Scythed Chariots
600 Armored Oliphaunts

"Send this to Tarvan and tell him to prepare himself."

[Angle Empire]

Two Weeks Later The invasion force was split into 2 groups of forty-thousand. The northern ne was to go through the mountins, while the soutehrn group was to go through the plains.

Southern Army
Tarvan rode out in front of the gigantic army preparing to march and was to say a few words. Tarvan was an extremely experienced general, he had gone on many campaigns against the trolls.
He wore a shiny leather coat, his boots were also made of leather. His helmet was pure Stetthian steel, with a array of feathers going through the middle. He had lost an eye in battle so he wore a patch.
He said, "Listen unto me, mighty army of Stetthia. Our new allies of the north need our assistance in taking this kingdom! Our enemies are many, but we shall prevail. Some of us will die, but we will
die an honorable death for the cause of Stetthia!" All cheered and beat on their shields with their weapons.

Tarvan gave the order to move out, the Erosian war had begun.

After several hours of marching, they finally spotted the enemy.
In the distance, a human scout was seen on the horizon through a scope.
A messenger rode up next to Tarvan and his generals and said, "The enemy has spotted us, and our scouts have seen an army headed our way."
"How strong are they?" Tarvan replied.
"They said at least fifty-thousand strong. It appears they're hitting us with everything they can muster."
"Good, we will defeat them and have an easy time marching through the rest of west Eros. Tell the men to prepare for battle!"


The terrain was flat grassland, not a tree was in sight. The perfect enviroment for chariots.
They marched forward in battle formation, eager to meet the enemy. They shouted ancient war chants that have streched back to the Gnomian wars.
Finally, after a whole hour, the enemy army was seen in the distance. Their banner flew high above the ground, it was a most magnificent sight.
The Erosians numbered sixty-thousand, whereas the Stetthians numbered forty-thousand.

The main line of the Stetthians consisted of Kopesh Warriors and Axebearers mixed and divided into squares. The flanks were guarded by Orticus. The archers were behiind the main line preparing to fire.
Cavalry had been dispatched to both flanks, while the cchariots had been kept farther off preparing to strike.
The Olipphaunts were farther away as not to cause havoc among their own troops. They were to wait for the genrals orders.
The Erosian line had no formation, but was a jumble of mixed unti types. They had cavalry to their flanks also.

The enemy continued to march forward. They finally stopped, the cavalry to their sides had formed up in the middle. About four-thousand horsemen began to charge.
"FIRE!!" The Commander barked. All the archers launched their arrows perfectly at the same time. Some five thousand arrows fell on the charging horsemen.
Mnay of the horsemen fell, but they continued to progress. Tarvan gave the order fot the chariots to charge. The horsemen were about four hundred feet from the main line when the chariots were given the orders.
The charits quickly got up to speed. Arrows flew through the air towards the enemy horsemen. They finally clashed, the scyths on the chariots cut down horses like grass.
They finally plowed right through them, killing many. The chariots continued to fire arrows at a distance.

Out of the four-thousand horsemen that charged, two-thoouasnd remained. They finally clashed itno the main line. They pushed into the line with much power. After awhile they finally withdrew.
Only five-hundred horsemen returned from the main line. Many Stetthians died in the charge. Another volley of arrows slughtered the remaining wavering horsemen.

"Now it's our turn." Tarvan said. "Move forward! charge on my orders!"

The line began to move forawrd, awaiting Tarvan to give the order. Missile untis were now in range. The erosians launched seeral volleys, causing mild damage to the Stetthians.
"Units, CHAAAARGE!!!!" A huge battle cry was given as they charged. The enemy line then charged also. The two forces wwere rappidly coming towards a huge clash.
Several squares of troops moved out to the edge to make the line longer. They finally clashed, the sound of shields and swords slashing and screams of pain filled the air.
Minotuars were huge creatures, much larger than their human adversaries. It wasn't long until they began to maver. Pretty soon the entire Erosian army was in flight.
Much to their surprise, the flanks of the Sttthians had wrapped around them, and the cavalry had cut them off from the rear.

There were no survivors when the Stetthians were finished, they gave no mercey. It was sunset, Tarvan sat in his tent with his officers.

"How amny did we lose?" He said.

"Five-thousand dead and wounded. There were no Erosians survivors that we know of."

"Good. I want the men well rested, so we will set out again tomorrow at noon."

[Honorisia]

Death itself is not glorious; but dying for a cause, especially a noble one, is the most glorious moment a man can have.

The bloody sword in Aurvald's grasp was heavier than anything he had ever lifted in his life. Still, the green garbed men kept coming, every time grinding harder into the Naradian vanguard. A small, quick man darted inside of Aurvald's guard, slipping his smaller sword into the space between the two men. Aurvald didn't use any fancy tactics or swordsmanship, he punched the man in his exposed face. The man stumbled back, blood streaming from the bent nose. An arrow buried itself in his neck, dropping him instantly. The arrow was the first of thousands to fall into the desperate melee between the Naradian vanguard and the Erosian force. Men around Aurvald dropped, arrows sprouting from their bodies. The grey furs that adorned the shoulders of each Naradian soldier mixing with the sea of green garbed bodies. Every colour stained crimson by the blood pouring from the battle. Fresh Naradian soldiers pressed past Aurvald, their swords and shields winning him rest. He fell back, the vanguard disengaged with him and retreated, their job done. The 5,000 remaining men streaming to the back of the Naradian host to rest their weary bodies.

In relief of the Freemen vanguard was the main force if the Naradian army. 20,000 Armoured Swordsmen, led by the Lords Kruyt and Macon, smashed into the Erosian army. Hails of arrows flew over the sea of grey cloaked men; burying into green, whether it be the grass or an Erosian soldier was indistinguishable from the sea of blood pouring from the bodies of Erosian soldiers.

In the center of the green army (where the massive tent of the oversized king was located), the fighting was confusing and chaotic. Green men cut into green men, grey soldiers cutting into them both. A vicious cry went out from the tent. "Alas, the king, the poor king. He has fallen." The sorrowful cry went out from the tent, spreading terror through the green army's ranks.

The Naradian flanks stirred, cavalry spreading over the flat terrain. The mass of horsemen split in two, rushing around to struggling armies. The two separate forces if cavalry turned, encircling the North Erosian army. Several hundred horsemen rode out from the flanks to meet the marauding Naradian riders. The green men were cut down with ease, many of them fleeing the battlefield before the Naradian war machine could devour them.

By the next morning, all that remained of the Erosians was a field of red. Bodies piled high into the air, burning brightly enough to be seen for leagues around.

[Angle Empire]

Northern Army
The northern army had yet to set out on their campaign. They were told to wait 2 days before invading.Tarvan put the group under the control of his brother, Judan.
2 days had passed since Tarvan's force invaded Eros, it was time. The men packed up camp, put on thier armour and marched.
The army set out past their borders, eager to further the influence of Stetthia. After hearing of his brothers victory in the south, he could feel the fall of Eros into their hands like a rippe fruit.

Several hours had passed, with no sign of resistance. They came to a small city. The city had no walls, so victory was assured.
The city was completely abandoned, "It apppears their army already knwos we are coming." Judan said. They left a small gurad force there and moved on.


Southern Army
Thousands of bodies laid all over the ground. The men combed through to find any survivors and kill them. They had just fought a battle against five thousand stetthians.
Meanwhile, Tarvan sat in his tent, sipping the finest Stetthian wine with his officers.
"We are only 3 days away from their capital," Tarvan said. He then pointed to a area on the map, right inf front of their capital. "They will most likely throw everything they've got at us right here. I believe that their king may face us in battle. We will also most likely be outnumbered."

"I would recommend putting the Olipahints in front and put the main line behind them. Chariots and cavalry will be at the flanks and attempt to surround them. " General Ichtoom said after taking another sip.

"That is what i was considering, now, we must sleep and march in the morning!"

[Honorisia]

"There are elves among their captured enemies. Release them from their chains, let them attempt to fend off their inevitable end."

-Emperor Joren Railius, speaking to his council.

6,000 men, all cloaked in the pale grey furs of the Naradian Royal Army, stood watch over the thousands of captured Erosian soldiers. Aurvald himself stood, triumphantly overlooking the grooup of elves garbed in their tattered green cloaks. Several men came by, laughing and drinking. One of the men stopped, turning to the elf. "Stupid fucking elves, how's your fat king now? All cut up and fed to the dogs like the pig he was? Soon we're going to do that to you little elf. Soon it'll be your fingers and toes that are being gnawed on by the dogs. I'm going to cut off your balls and make you watch the hounds eat them." He spat on the elf's face, laughing as he pulled his axe off his hip. "I'm going to kill every last one of you, make sure the world never sees the likes of your race again." The axe fell into the side of the elf's face, shearing it in half. The rest of the elves cried out in anger. One of them leapt up, anger filling his voice. "Never has the world seen such cruelty as the monstrosity that is Naradia. The gods themselves will strike you down, tear you off that blasted throne and..." He never finished his sentence. An arrow pierced his throat, stopping his speech instantly. The elf grabbed at the arrow, clutching his bleeding neck and letting out a terrible gasping noise. More laughter seeped from the Naradian ranks. Aurvald stepped towards his men. "That is enough! They are prisoners of war, not playthings to fill your desires. Treat them with the respect you would give a captured human." A metal gauntlet struck out, knocking the light from Aurvald's eyes. "Well boys, now that the bleeding heart has been dealt with, lets have our fun with those elf bastards." Screaming and the sounds of war came from the prisoner camp that night. The sounds of elves dying filling the night.

Aurvald awoke the next morning, surrounded by butchered bodies. A massive bird descended from the sky, landed lightly on the ground next to a body. Aurvald stared at it, the soulless black eyes boring into him while the bird tore into dead flesh. Aurvald made his way through the massacre, only finding elf bodies. Not a single human lay dead in the field, only the green cloaked elves. He stepped through the sea of red and green, making his way back to the camp. The entire force was moving stirring up a mass of dust and leaving the carrion eaters to the feasts they had left them. The war was heading east, deeper into Eros.

[Angle Empire]

Tarvan sat on a stump, watching the massive city burn. The screams of women and children filled the air as they killed every Erosian in sight.
"What now must we do, my brother?" Tarvan asked Judan.

"The Elves are at the mercy of the Naradians, and the war we have been planning against the trolls will most likely be our next mission."

"Ah, yes, and they are weak now, with the Dwarves attacking from the west. It will be easy pickings. I have sent a letter to the Capital about our victory, Opticus did say that when we were victorious, we may move right away into Trollia. We march at dawn."

"Yes, my brother." Judan got up off his chair, "Now, i must go speak to my officers about casualties."

[Honorisia]

Where there's a whip, there's a way.

The army was split. King Joren had taken the larger force south, leaving Hadley with a paltry 15,000 men to take Broddring. The North Erosian Army was in tatters, tens of thousands of militia manning the walls without any leadership. Morale was at its lowest in years; the old men and young boys that had been conscripted not eager to fight their northern brethren. All Hadley would need to do would be to take the walls and the city's defenders would most likely surrender.

Aurvald, Freeman and member of Hadley's vanguard, stood in his position in the line. The thousands of volunteer warriors were lined up between the massive siege towers. The battering ram took its place in the center of the line, its wooden shell coated in hides. A war horn blew, sounding loud and low over the city. Hadley jabbed his horse in the flanks and shot forward with his guard. A white flag f peace flapped in the winds on the guard's lances. The group of horsemen stopped at the gates, waiting for a response. Hadley looked up, staring at the men on the walls above. "I wish to speak with the commander of the city. Under a banner of peace, I request a parley."

[Honorisia]

Today we burn the city. Tomorrow we build it.

Orinsburg was a mess. Unfortunately for Guillém Strahn, it was his mess to clean up. The walls were breached in several places, fires were still burning in the harbour, and thousands of armed citizens were throwing themselves against his men screaming terrible curses. He knew that if his men were to hold the city, they would need the help of a local lord. That was why he was here, in the dungeons below Orinsburg's citadel. He had his pick of the captured lords. The only problem was that most of these lords did not have the charisma and political clout needed to calm the populace. The closest person to what he needed was Aurevana Streight. However, she was a woman, and not likely to be of much help. He surveyed his other options. Rémi Frais was cowardly, Irbay Sara had the personality of a badger, and Liem Ysolf was the son of a farmer.

He opened his mouth to speak. "I am looking for somebody to help me. That person must have authority over these people, and the courage to exercise it. I need someone that will help us subdue the mobs of people that die in droves." Rémi shrunk into his corner of the cell, Liem didn't even look up and Irbay had the audacity to laugh at him. Guillém continued his speech, eyes locked on his only possible choice. "I do not wish to kill more citizens. Please help me to calm them. I am not of this city, so they will not listen to me." Irbay looked up at him, defiant to the end. "Why would any of us help you? You came to our city, killed our men, drove our king into the fires and destroyed our temples. We will not help you." Guillém motioned to his guard. The armoured man stepped forward, sword drawn.

Irbay silenced, Guillém continued. "You will help me because you do not wish your people to die for no cause. The battle is over. My men have won the day. Help me calm your people and I will free you, return your holdings and give you status among my family."

A deafening silence covered the room, before Aurvena spoke. "I will accept your offer. With my father dead and all of my brothers killed in the battle, will I be given what is rightfully mine?"

Guillém smirked. "You are a bold one. My lady, I shall do everything in my power to make that a reality. What say you to becoming a part of my family?"

This time it was Aurvena's turn to smirk. "Guillém Strahn, I seem to recall that you are married to Linnéa Karas. Is it custom in Naradia to take more than one wife? Especially one that is so much younger than yourself."

Guillém smiled at Aurvena no longer the physically imposing warrior that had taken the city. "No my lady. You would be my sister. Unless you wish to marry my youngest son? But I would allow you to marry who you please. I only wish to give you the protection that the Strahn name would give you."

Aurvena nodded then turned to face Guillém. "Very well... brother. I accept your most generous offer. Please do all you can to return my city to me." She strode away, led to the surface by a pair of soldiers.

Guillém turned to the cell guards, with a mournful face. "We have no need for the others. Allow them to enter the abyss."

[New Armarzia]

High Lord Eric Mantoon
The Great House Mantoon
Greenlight, New Armarzia

The damned politics of New Armarzia allowed this mess to happen, thought the high lord of New Armarzia to himself as he stared down at the map of the lands surrounding New Armarzia. While the religious zealots of the temple and House Xander tried to make his rightful claim as high lord invalid the Naradian navy and armies simply sailed passed all of New Armarzia to invade the kingdoms of Eros who provided a valuable defense for new Armarzia. But now that is claim was secure, the first human to lay claim to New Armarzia it was time to bring about a change to this Dark Elven nation that always hid within their own borders due to their isolationist religion. But all the time it took to secure his authority had forced the head of both the nation and House Mantoon to change his plans to one that was much less reasonable. What was suppose to be a simple plan of providing assistance to the kingdoms of Eros and blocking any naval movement had now turned into a desperate plan of painfully unifying the houses of New Armarzia to now begin a march on the remains of the occupied kingdoms of Eros and unite what little remains of citizens still loyal to Eros.

A dark elf entered the small, but ornate room wearing golden armor with pieces of green glass spread throughout the piece of armor. He approached the high lord placing down a small group of paper and said, "Sir, all is set to begin the march, just need you to sign this into law." The dark elf waited for a few moments as the high lord read the papers and said, "Are you sure you want to do this, Eric? Our people have not set foot outside their homeland in thousands of years. If this goes wrong the response from House Xandar and House Gwyn will be terrifying."

Eric stayed silent as he signed his name on the last page, than responding, "From hence forth any vessel originating from the west of New Armarzia must dock to be searched or be seized by the Armarzian navy. I assume the other houses armies are all mustered?"

"All but House Xander, sir, they are taking their time in gathering forces. They are all posed to march at your order save for House Xander who will be joining in late. Fifty members of Daitum Clairvaux were dispatched yesterday, majority being centered in Northern Eros and a sizable amount were sent to the East in hopes of organizing whatever is left of a resistance to assist us. A small amount were sent to the Southern kingdoms, but we have little hope of their success. The House Mantoon fleet is also poised to set sail for Orinsburg with five Vessels from House Silva in a days time, they await for the word of our Daitum Clairvaux agents in the East to see if it is possible to organize any form of resistance or if they should just burn the port to ashes."

"Thank you, Michael, do not worry, we are going to be successful, just have faith in our strength and pray to our lady, Liscilla. We will be outnumbered, but we have the trust of our gods and strength of both our arms and magic to carry us through this conflict. Make sure my horse is ready, I'll be right out. Ensure the envoy has already been set."

"I saw to it personally hours before, I'll see you outside m'lord," finished michael as he left the room to await his high lord to lead the Armarzian army.

---

Sarah Liasoon
The Great House Mantoon
Border of New Armarzian and The Naradian Empire

Sarah Liasoon sat atop her horse as they slowly trotted towards the borders of the two nations that was till now, never used. A group of ten guards from House Mantoon and two from the lord's guard surrounded her as they approached the border. The group's destination was Peakward and from there, the capital. The ultimate hope of the dark elf, the daughter of the last lord of House Mantoon, was to work out a deal that required the Naradian armies to leave the territory on the border of New Armarzia but that was not a likely hope in Sarah's mind. She just wanted to ensure the fighting was kept to a minimum and that the superstitious and xenophobic Armarzians would return home as soon as possible was some sort of victory.

[Honorisia]

Sometimes a softer touch is needed. Others times, the fury of an enraged mother bear is required to get anything done.

Broddring, North Eros

Hadley sat there, astride his horse and surrounded by his guard. The city was silent, only the wails and cries of women and children audible from behind the walls. The horn sounded again, seeming to burrow through the stone wall and pass through everything. Still no movement was visible at the gates or on the walls. Hadley wheeled his horse around, stirring up a cloud of dust leading back to the Naradian host.

Hadley rode through the Naradian lines. He came to a halt at the captain of the vanguard's position. "Prepare all forces. We strike within the hour." The captain turned to his men, bellowing orders as he disappeared into the army of Northmen. The entire army began to stir. Siege towers were manned, trebuchets were loaded and the battering ram was given another soaking. Soon enough, men would die in service of their country.

Border of New Armazia and Naradian Empire, Mountain Wall

Lord Arhn Sturian was a minor lord. He had never been given command of anything larger than his own hearth. So when the high and mighty Lord HadleyCaron appointed his cousin to command the Naradian forces of the impenetrable wall the separated Naradia from its neighbours to the northeast it came as a surprise. Arhn was no soldier. He had never held a sword in battle. So when he saw the Armazian delegation, he was baffled by the dilemma. The Armazians kept to themselves, the only reason the wall was manned was out of tradition. So Arhn did the only thing he saw fit to do, he barred the gate and shouted from the top of the wall like a fool.

"Ho down there. What Elven peoples dare leave their cozy and warm places to venture into the true north? Speak your purpose or be fired upon." The guards of the walls looked surprised at this last ultimatum. They weren't used to seeing travellers, much less shooting them.

Plains outside Huntinsville, South Eros

Emperor Joren's army was the largest of the three Naradian forces fighting in the eastern countries. 51,000 men were ready, committed to wiping this kingdom off the map. First, Joren wanted to try something. He wanted his position in the east to be re-enforced, but to do that he would need more men. The 40,000 trained men serving under Horace Glenmont would do well to further that cause.

The two parties rode towards each other, white flags of peace flying over them both. Emperor Hadley and King Glenmont stared at each other as they closed, neither of the men daring to look away. They halted their parties at a lance's length away, dismounting and approaching the other on foot. Hadley looked to the host assembled behind his adversary.

"Well, quite the force you've got back there. A shame its nothing compared to mine."

Horace cracked a smile and tilted his head. "We may be few, but we fight with a greater ferocity than any of your men. We fight for our home. To defend it from foreigners."

Hadley grinned at this declaration. "Foreigners? Really? The fellow humans that aren't too different from you. We only follow to true path. That path leads to a stronger humankind as a whole. We do not gladly wage war upon our brothers and sisters. We do it because it is necessary to do evil in order to achieve greatness."

Horace looked at him, incredulously. "To you, humanity is the only race worth saving. But here, the elves are our friends. We fight you because you threaten our brothers and sisters and call it a righteous war."

Hadley spun to his guard, motioning for a sack tied to his horse. He caught it, spilling its contents out in front of Horace. "Do you recognize these men? Even under all the tar?" Horace stared in fear. "That's right. The heads of the other three kings of Eros. Will yours be joining them? Or will you submit to me. Declare your fealty and you and every human in your kingdom will be spared." Horace unsheathed his sword, preparing a response.

[New Armarzia]

Sarah Liasoon
The Great House Mantoon
Border of New Armarzian and The Naradian Empire, Mountain Wall

The House Mantoon guards immediately responded to the threat by switching their handling of their spears so they could be thrown, but they were outnumbered and the enemies being upon a wall gave the guards little chance. The two Lord's Guards closed in by the diplomat they were charged to protect, each being dominant of different hand so they moved their shields to block the diplomat while exposing themselves, though with the enemy above them on a wall the arrows would simply go over the shield.

Sarah raised her voice as she called up to the surprised lord, "I come representing High Lord Eric Mantoon; lord of the Armarzian tribes, friend of the giants, ranking leader of the Great House Mantoon, and the first human lord of New Armarzia." She made sure to emphasize the human part of the title to hopefully subdue the lord's apparent thoughts towards New Armarzia and their elven people. "The High Lord would like this delegation to speak with ranking members of your realm dealing with the matter of your conquest of the kingdoms of Eros. The High Lord believes it best to ensure no incidents befall our two nations and that are histories continue to be as peaceful as they have been in the past."

---

High Lord Eric Mantoon
The Great House Mantoon
Border of New Armarzia and Eros, Fort Xulaa

The Armarzian army marched Southward towards the border of New Armarzia and the kingdoms of Eros. 25,000 men followed the High Lord of New Armarzia as they approached Fort Xulaa. Another 15,000 men under the command of the young Sans Vivar, who was considered next in line to lead the respected Great House Tala'Kuul, the largest militarily of the houses. With such forces being raised and called upon from ever house, the great houses had been forced to call upon their reserve soldiers, a partially volunteer force who had minimal training but were instilled with the ideals of the house they were apart of. However, these less experienced men were not trusted to perform well fighting in foreign lands for a foreign cause, leaving the newer recruits to refresh the numbers back home as the much more experienced and better armed forces of New Armarzia marched to liberate the Northern two kingdoms of Eros from their conquerors. The armies set up camp surrounding the fortress as they prepared for their invasion in the morrow.

The next morning High Lord Mantoon would march the 25,000 soldiers from House Mantoon, House Silva, and the Lord's Guard straight South into the Northernmost kingdom of Eros till it reached a major road to travel upon. There it planned to stop in towns along the way to muster up Eros volunteers that had already been rallied by agents of the Daitum Clairvaux who were sent days before. After the week long march tot he city of Broddring the High Lord's army would begin a three day siege on the city that was suspected to already be in the hands of the Naradian Empire. General Sans Vivar would lead his 15,000 troops from House Tala'Kuul and House Gwyn South and West to sweep towns in the western parts of the Eros kingdom while also serving as an early defense against any force marching from the Naradian Empire. After a ten day march that would sweep back around to Broddring from the West, the forces of Vivar would arrive on the third day of the siege to begin to take the city.

Admiral Meric Lana
Lord's Guard
Naval Fleet Outside Valnix

The dark elf admiral, not a member of any of the great houses, but rather a member of the neutral Lord's Guard sat at the desk in his quarters of the flagship of the Armarzian invasion fleet, a grand caravel that was the pride of the fleet of the Lord's Guard due to its ability to sail into much dangerous waters than most of the fleet. A majority of Armarzian Caravels were controlled by House Mantoon. The Lord's Guard navy was comprised primarily of Hulks. However, the fleet at his command was comprised of much more than the Lord's Guard as shown by the people present in his quarters. Two high ranking members of the Mantoon fleet, and one member from the Tala'Kuul fleet and the Silva fleet. Nearly sixty ships would be part of the navy, two thirds of the entire Armarzian navy. A little less than half of the ships were from Mantoon and Tala'Kuul and were primarily for transportation of troops by longboats and cogs with a few mages sprinkled on some of the ships to provide arcane fire to their weaponry along with basic bows. The other half were hulks and caravels who were armed with ballistas and trained marines of the Lord's Guard. However, the true strength and power of the fleet was the four ships provided by House Silva, galleys that would carry twelve mages each. Four senior mages would endlessly conjure great, green fireballs surrounded in magical force and fling them at their foes. The force that shielded the fire would impact like a stone fired from a trebuchet, than the green fire would be released in a burst of flames as the fire is set free, the magical fire would than burn for a few minutes on whatever material it touches before vanishing if not on any flammable surface. The other eight mages would cycle using their magic to sustain the four senior mages to ensure they could continuously launch their fire.

The admiral looked at the human, sylvan elf, and two dark elves while stating the plan, "Tomorrow the armies of New Armarzia march upon the kingdoms of Eros to free them from their oppressors. We will set sail in the same time frame, but we will arrive our target much earlier than any of the other armies. We will blockade the ports of Orinsburg and the mages of the Great House Silva will siege the city and any docked naval vessels with their green fire. The rest of the navy will simply stand by to prevent in any counter-attack by the enemy navy. While we do this 5,000 soldiers from House Xandar will march into the Eatsern Kingdom to hold towns in the Northern half to rally support and hopefully seize smaller fishing villages and coastal towns that can be used to resupply longships and cogs. Caravels and Hulks will have to sail to the Crimson Watch to dock and resupply during this blockade. After three days of burning this port we will ask for their surrender and simply repeat the process." The admiral looked at the other admirals before finishing, "Tell your captains quickly for when the morrow comes we set sail.