The Winter War: Final Outcome

Spectres, wraiths, and giant bats stream over the battlefield, torturing the living and preying upon the dying. As the last of the Men of Hambley run, screaming from the walls of Oraving, Trazynel the Vampire Lord looks out upon his new domain. Today, he has triumphed. To his west, the White City of Hriving stands, last bastion of the Principality of Oraving. To his east, the elves of Arbelladon remain, dwindled but defiant, their realm now protected by the power of the Scepter of Vassuryn. In time, the elves would fall. But first, he would squash Hriving like...

...like a bug, Beloved?

Aemelia? How?

Did you think I would not know it the moment you escaped your prison, Beloved? My thoughts are always upon you.

I will never... Never... Never bow the knee to you. Not then, not now.

It's so charming that you think you have a choice. The Unquiet Night is falling.

Hesper--

Hesper is defeated. His temples are defiled and his crusaders destroyed. Thank you for helping with that, by the way.

I will find a way to defeat you.

Promises, promises, Beloved. I will see you soon.

---

The next day, something strange happens: with the coming of Spring, most of the Undead Legions slink away from Oraving, returning to the Necropolis, as Trazynel begins to prepare himself for the coming conflict with the Lady Amelia. A heavy mist descends permanently over the middle of the Vale, and crossing even via the Lake becomes extremely dangerous.

In the south, the Red City of Oraving becomes known as the City of the Damned, as horrible vermin, zombies, skeletons, and worse roam its streets aimlessly. The White City of Hriving becomes the last bastion of human civilization in the region, desperate for heroes to champion its cause and reclaim the lands which once belonged to the Principality. The elves of Arbelladon slowly regrow their power, with the new Elvenking vowing revenge upon his enemies, and to avoid repeating the mistakes of his predecessor...

In the North, the Men of Hambley fall under the shadow of Nora-To, the Wise Man of the Wood, and are plunged into darkness, enslaved by the strange sacrificial rites beneath the trees. The former Abbey of Igolb becomes a place of darkness, evil, and murder, filled with the cries of the innocent.

Roving bands of Beastmen still plague the mountain passes, but the loss of its main sources of slaves and loot make the Vale far less interesting to the Underlords Below, and the Ironburg is abandoned, and becomes the abode of other things, far older than Beastmen, that crawl among the roots of the mountains.

---

Outcome: Qualified Lawful victory (Principality of Oraving). Trazynel failed to seize the Teeth of Vassuryn and/or destroy Arbelladon in time to seize victory, and chooses to return to the Necropolis to attempt to find a means of victory over his former lover, the Lady Aemelia. 

The Winter War: February 28

Day: February 28

Weather: 6 (Clear)

Initiative Order for the week: 

1. The Principality of Oraving
2. Beastman Hordes
3. Undead Legions
4. Men of Hambley
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements:

A trumpet blast rings from the walls of Hriving, the defenders declare parley with the commander of the Wolf Riders:

"Now it is known to all the world that the men of Hambley are the most servile creatures ever born. Not the most craven goblin, nay, nor even the most simpering kobold catamite has as his equal in lust for servitude the Hambley man. See how eager they are for chains, how wholly devoid of pride and dignity! Look across the field and see how readily they crouch and lick the claws that so recently brought them humiliation. Verily, they flaunt their bondage! Never was a neck more fit for orcish chains then a neck from Hambley!

"We ye may kill, perhaps, if your fortune in war be far greater than that of your captain whose sword the Overlord has taken. But your slaves we will never be. Nor will you return to the Ironburg with any treasures from this city scorched by the dragon, not even in victory.

"Think ye on this as the bovine folk of Hambley pass your host with polished chains."

The gnoll captain is a ragged and scarred looking thing, froth gathering at the corners of his wide black mouth.  He sniggers.  "You want us to leave, you'll need to make it worth our while.  A bit of treasure for the Lords Below.  Maybe some food for the boys. Something magical for me."

"How about one that covers all three? Tasted ye the milquebisquit, secret known only to the master of Hriving's baking guild? Light of weight, pleasing in flavor, and long in keeping, it is the king of travel rations. A patent alchemical ingredient scrubbeth thy fangs to a white so gleaming only the most noble-blooded can clearly discern." To prove this, the Lord castellan looks down from the battlement and smiles broadly. The well-dressed Burgher and Countess of the Walls wince and avert their eyes while the shabby and muddy vigiles on his left don't react at all.

The Gnolls agree to this, and the Gnoll commander is granted a supply of Milquebisquits along with a magical shield, in return for leaving the walls of Hriving.

Meanwhile, the Overlord Atheldard harangues his men on the walls of Oraving:

The overlord addresses his men: "What unsettles you, men of Oraving -- is it the ragged host arrayed before us? The bandit army from every villain people that rangeth the wide earth? Every storehouse of hell emptied of its fiends, every deception, every betrayal and abandonment by our allies. At long last, what has it brought them? To stand before our adamantine gates, staring up at our lofty battlements, as they always have. Once already have they dared to trespass these walls and paid for it. The Fang of Vassuryn at my side will remind you if you have already forgotten. Think ye they have forgotten? Would you trade places with them?

"Smile, men! Be of good cheer! For this is the last night of the war! It has come down to the strong shoulders of men, as it always must. The vaunted Elves took flight at not half so hard the blows that you have weathered. The coward heathens of the north have struck their own chains in terror of it. But what say the Men or Oraving, upon whose strong thews and steady nerves rest the fate of the world? We smile! We laugh! For we trust that matters have come down to the only hands capable of righting them. If in the din of war you come to doubt my boast, then look for my banner flying there amongst you, and know that I do not doubt it.

"In victory or in death, the world will know that every man here did his duty. Victory or death: those are your two escapes. There is no other. If you live, live to conquer! If you die, die such that history never forgets the name Oraving."

The Overlord also sends a pigeon message to Hriving with his final message: "Oraving expects every man to do his duty."

The forces of Hambley, the Beastmen around the walls of Hriving, and the Undead legions of Trazynel, converge upon the city of Oraving, attacking it from three sides, and (in the case of the Undead legions), from the air. The Ironburg is emptied of its garrison, who force march all night to reach the walls of Oraving. A great battle is fought.

Reinforcements: 

1 Company of 120 Gnoll Longbowmen, led by a 6 HD Gnoll, are sent to the Ironburg to join the final assault on the forces of Law.

Oraving and Hriving raise 1 company of Militia each.

Battle Resolutions

The Siege of Oraving (028,021)

The First Wave - The Beastmen Hordes 

Force 1: The Beastmen Hordes - BR 39 (23.5 without breach)

• 1 company of 60 goblin Wolf Riders (spear, short sword, shield, leather, dire wolf), led by a 5 HD chieftain - BR 6.5 (BR 1.6 without breach)
• 1 company of 31 Slave Cataphracts led by a 5 HD Orc Chieftain - BR 3.84 (BR 0.96 without breach)
• 1 Company of 30 Slave Light Cavalry - BR 1.75 (BR 0.4 without breach)
• 1 Company of 30 Slave Medium Cavalry - BR 2.5 (BR 0.6 without breach)
• 1 Company of 60 Slave Heavy Cavalry - BR 6 (BR 1.5 without breach)
• 1 Company of 60 Ogre Light Infantry (From Ironburg) - BR 4
• 2 Companies of 120 Kobold Light Infantry, led by a 3 HD Kobold Chieftain (From Ironburg) - BR 0.5
• 1 Company of 120 Orc Bowmen (From Ironburg) - BR 1
• 2 Companies of 120 Gnoll Longbowmen each, each led by a 6 HD Gnoll Chieftain (From Ironburg) - BR 13

Force 2: The Men of Oraving - BR 15

• 3 companies of 120 Militia/each, each led by a Level 5 Human Fighter - BR 2+3
• Light Infantry - BR 1+1
• 1 Company of 120 Slingers - BR 1+1
• 1 company of 120 slingers led by a 5th level Human Fighter - BR 1+1
• 1 company of 120 Dwarven Heavy Infantry led by a 5th level Human Fighter - BR 3+1

Surprise: Neither force is surprised.

Round 1: The Beastmen assault the gate, attempting to seize it. Due to an outbreak of diarrhea among his troops, the Gnoll commander has trouble directing his troops during the initial assault, and the Beastmen deal only 1 BR of damage. The Men of Oraving repulse them from the walls, dealing 3 BR of damage. Additionally, the Overlord uses the abilities of the Fang of Vassuryn, which he has bent to his will, to teleport the Ogre light Infantry 150 feet in the air above one of the companies of Gnoll Longbowmen. The Ogres crash to the earth, destroying or scattering both units for an additional 13.5 BR of damage.

Round 2: With more than half their numbers eliminated, and no way of breaching the walls, the Beastmen furiously charge the gate again. They deal 1 BR of damage before they are repulsed from the gates again, taking 5 BR of damage. Disheartened and leaderless, the remaining Beastmen scatter into the countryside. 

The Second Wave - The Undead Legions

Force 1: The Undead Legions - BR 26 (22.7)

• 11 Spectres - BR 23.5
• 1 Vampire - BR 3.4
• 1 Wight - BR 0.305 (BR 0 until Drawbridge is seized)
• 60 Wolves - BR 0.72
• 49 Giant Bats - BR 4.6
• 120 Massed Vermin - BR 0.5
• 300 Zombies - BR 3 (BR 0 until Drawbridge is seized)
• 4 Wraiths - BR 2.5

Force 2: The Men of Oraving - BR 13

• 3 companies of 120 Militia/each, each led by a Level 5 Human Fighter - BR 2+3
• 1 Company of 120 Slingers - BR 1+1
• 1 company of 120 slingers led by a 5th level Human Fighter - BR 1+1
• 1 company of 120 Dwarven Heavy Infantry led by a 5th level Human Fighter - BR 3+1

Surprise: Neither force is surprised. 

Round 1: The Zombies and Wight recoil from the moat, which has been filled with Holy Water. The flying troops (Trazynel and his bats, the Spectres, and the Wraiths) fly overhead, attacking the city from the air, while the wolves and the vermin swim the moat and the latter (primarily rats) swarm over the walls and begin to infest the city, biting men with their diseased fangs. The Men of Oraving take 3 BR of damage, taking refuge under holy symbols and firing arrows dipped in holy water as they repel the initial assault, dealing 4 BR of damage.

Round 2: The forces of darkness continue to swarm over the city, terrorizing its inhabitants as they deal 8 BR of damage. They seize the gatehouse, lowering the drawbridge to allow the Wight and his legion of Zombies to cross, and allowing the wolves to enter. The men of Oraving fight savagely, dealing 2 BR of damage as they are hemmed in around the Overlord's citadel.

Round 3: Trazynel mounts his final, terrible assault on the Overlord's citadel, dealing 3 BR of damage, and taking no damage from the Men of Oraving as they storm the citadel and Trazynel feasts on the Overlord Atheldard. Oraving has fallen. 

The Third Wave - The Men of Hambley

Force 1: The Men of Hambley - BR 19.5 (17.5 without breach)

• 1 Company of 120 Light Infantry A - BR 1
• 1 Company of 120 Bowmen - BR 1.5
• 1 company of 120 Heavy Infantry A (spear, sword, shield, banded), led by a 5th level Human Fighter, - BR 2
• 1 Company of 20 Forest Trolls - BR 7.3
• 1 Company of 60 Lizardman Heavy Infantry - BR 3.75
• 1 Company of 30 Lizardman Chameleon Riders - BR 4 (BR 2 without breach)

Force 1: The Undead Legions - BR 22.7

• 8 Spectres - BR 17.2
• 1 Vampire - BR 3.4
• 1 Wight - BR 0.305+1
• 60 Wolves - BR 0.72+1
• 49 Giant Bats - BR 4.6
• 300 Zombies - BR 3+1
• 4 Wraiths - BR 2.5

Surprise: Neither force is surprised.

Round 1: The Men of Hambley, weary from their forced march, arrive at the city walls to find Oraving occupied not by the Overlord's men, but by the Undead Legions of Trazynel, and the city fills with the screams of those few living who still inhabit it. Seeking to seize the city, the Men of Hambley attack, assaulting its gates and dealing 1 BR of damage. They are repulsed by the Undead, who swarm upon them, spreading disease and fear among their ranks, dealing 5 BR of damage.

Round 2: The Men of Hambley renew their assault, dealing 1 additional BR of damage before they are repulsed from the gate, taking 7 BR of damage. The Men of Hambley begin to waver.

Round 3: Attempting one final time to take the gate, but are unable to deal it any damage. The attack proves disastrous, however, and the Men of Hambley take an additional 8 BR of damage. Their remaining forces are scattered and destroyed. 

Outcome: Undead victory.

Casualties: The Oraving Garrison, the Beastman Horde, and the Men of Hambley are all defeated, their dead raised as servants of Trazynel. Trazynel seizes the Fang of Vassuryn, 

The Winter War: February 27

Day: February 27

Weather: 7 (Clear)

Initiative Order for the week: 

1. The Principality of Oraving
2. Beastman Hordes
3. Undead Legions
4. Men of Hambley
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

The men of Hambley, along with their Troll and Lizardfolk allies, force march as far as 027,018.

Reinforcements: 

Trazynel raises the following Undead at 028,020:

• 240 Zombies
• 7 Spectres
• 3 Wraiths

The Winter War: February 26

Day: February 26

Weather: 7 (Clear)

Initiative Order for the week: 

1. The Principality of Oraving
2. Beastman Hordes
3. Undead Legions
4. Men of Hambley
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

There are no troop movements today (rest day).

Reinforcements: 

None.

The Winter War: February 25

Day: February 25

Weather: 6 (Clear)

Initiative Order for the week: 

1. The Principality of Oraving
2. Beastman Hordes
3. Undead Legions
4. Men of Hambley
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

120 Slingers and 120 Dwarven Heavy Infantry arrive via the lake and garrison Oraving.

Trazynel and his legions move to 028,020 and begin to raise new undead forces from the 2-day old battlefield.

The garrison of Fort Hambley arrives at the Abbey, now under the control of Hambley's lizardmen and trolls. Once the men of Hambley arrive, the Lizardmen, Trolls, and rangers begin a forced march south, reaching 028,013 before the rangers (who had already traveled to the Abbey that morning) need to rest.

Reinforcements:

1 unit of 60 Ogre Light Infantry arrive in the Ironburg.

The Winter War: February 24

Day: February 24

Weather: 7 (Clear)

Initiative Order for the week: 

1. The Principality of Oraving
2. Beastman Hordes
3. Undead Legions
4. Men of Hambley
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

The Hesperite and Oraving cavalry at 026,019 ride hard, falling upon the rear of the legions of Trazynel at 027,020. A battle is fought.

The Beastmen Hordes move to invest Hriving, harrying anyone who tries to reinforce the city. 

Using its powers of teleportation, the Fang of Vassuryn transports itself and the Orc Boar Riders into Overlord Atheldard's citadel in Oraving, attempting to assassinate the Overlord. A battle is fought.

The garrison of Fort Hambley moves south, making it as far as 030,009.

A force of Trolls and Lizardmen arrives at the Abbey of Igolb, surrounding its walls. A battle is fought.

The commander of the Wood Elf Horse Archers manages to master the Trident, raising a company of 120 stags, elk, and bears. He moves into and reoccupies Arbelladon, naming himself the new Elf-king, Ellator.

The dragon ravages the countryside at 027,020, engaging the Undead Legions. A battle is fought.

Reinforcements: 

Militia raised in Hriving and Oraving.

1 Company of 120 Orc Bowmen raised at the Ironburg.

Battle Resolutions

The Second Battle of Oraving Fields (027,020)

Force 1: Undead Legions - BR 20.5

• 3 Spectres - BR 4.28
• 1 Vampire - BR 3.4
• 1 Wight - BR 0.305
• 60 Wolves - 0.72
• 120 Giant Bats - BR 11.28
• 120 Massed Vermin - BR 0.5

Force 2: Crusader Cavalry - BR 12.5

• 1 unit of 60 Hesper Crusader Cataphract Cavalry, led by a Level 7 Cleric - BR 7
• 1 Company of 60 medium Cavalry, led by a Level 5 Cleric - BR 5.5

Surprise: Neither force is surprised.

Round 1: Raising his holy symbol aloft, the High Abbot of Hesper drives the Wight and one of the Spectres from the battlefield. The two forces then clash on the field, and Trazynel's legions deal 5 BR of damage, with the giant bats pulling riders from their horses and dropping them to the ground again from great heights.  The Crusaders fight on, dealing 3 BR of damage.

Round 2: Trazynel's legions deal 6 BR of damage to the crusaders as the latter are overrun by vermin, and in particular the great bats at Trazynel's command. The High Abbot struggles to order his troops, and the crusaders deal only 1 BR to the attacking forces. Left with no other option, the High Abbot charges Trazynel himself, hoping to slay the Vampire Lord with a stroke.

Round 3: The glorious last charge of the Men of Hesper deals 2 BR damage to the legions of Trazynel before the High Abbot is pulled apart by a swarm of great bats.

Outcome: Undead victory.

Casualties: 1 Wight, 1 Spectre, 60 Giant Bats killed or wounded. 30 Cataphract Cavalry and 30 Heavy Cavalry routed or wounded, 30 Cataphract Cavalry and 30 Heavy Cavalry raised as Zombies. The High Abbot and the Crusader Commander are raised as Spectres.

The Attack on the Citadel of Oraving (028,021)

Force 1: The Boar Riders - BR 8

• 1 company of 60 Orc Boar Riders (spear, scimitar, shield, scale, giant boar), led by the Fang of Vassuryn - BR 8

Force 2: The Men of Oraving - 8.5

• 2 companies of 120 Militia/each, each led by a Level 5 Human Fighter - BR 1.5+3
• Light Infantry - BR 1+1
• 1 Company of 120 Slingers - BR 1+1

Surprise: The Men of Oraving are surprised.

Surprise Round: The Boar Riders teleport into the Citadel, but find that preparations had already been made to prevent them from effectively deploying their cavalry in the streets of the city: caltrops have been laid through all of the largest thoroughfares, series of interior gates have been set up as killzones, and so on. The Men of Oraving fight desperately, and the Boar riders deal only 1 BR of damage.

Round 1: The Men of Oraving roll burning fascines down ramps prepared for the purpose, lock gates, and execute a plan intended to prevent the Boar Riders from reaching the Overlord. They deal 2 BR of damage to the Boar Riders. Completely stymied, the Boar Riders do no damage this round.

Round 2: The Men of Oraving begin to funnel the Boar Riders into a courtyard, dealing 1 BR of damage. The Boar Riders fight viciously, dealing 1 BR of damage.

Round 3: The Men of Oraving trap the Boar Riders in the courtyard, raining missiles and ballistae bolts down on them from the walls above, dealing 2 BR of damage. The Boar Riders deal 0 damage.

Round 4: The Men of Oraving trap the Boar Riders in the courtyard, raining missiles and ballistae bolts down on them from the walls above, dealing 1 BR of damage. The Boar Riders deal 0 damage.

Round 5: No damage dealt this round.

Round 6: The Men of Oraving trap the Boar Riders in the courtyard, raining missiles and ballistae bolts down on them from the walls above, dealing 2 BR of damage. The Boar Riders deal 0 damage.

Outcome: Victory for the Men of Oraving.

Casualties:

• 60 Light Infantry slain, 60 Light Infantry wounded
• 60 Boar Riders slain

The Fang of Vassuyrn is seized by the Overlord, who, after a protracted struggle, overcomes the tremendous ego of the blade, mastering it. 

The Siege of the Abbey of Igolb (030,011)

TREACHERY! The Men of Hambley are revealed to have struck a deal for power with the druids of Nora-To, offering their worship to the Wise Man of the Wood! Their alignment is revealed to have changed to Chaotic, and their win condition is: Take Oraving.

As the army of Lizardmen and Trolls approach the small walls of the Abbey, the Men of Hambley open the gates to the intruders, and the nuns of the Abbey are overwhelmed and slaughtered before they are able to assemble the golem. Disgusted by this treachery, the Dwarven Heavy Infantry desert the men of Hambley, marching away unmolested. 

Outcome: Total victory for the Men of Hambley.

Casualties: The population of the Abbey.

The Third Battle of Oraving Fields (027,020)

Force 1: The Undead Legions (Effective BR of 9.9)

• 4 Spectres - BR 8.4 (Cannot engage aerial units)
• 1 Vampire - BR 3.4 
• 60 Wolves - 0.72 (Cannot engage aerial units)
• 60 Giant Bats - BR 6.5
• 120 Massed Vermin - BR 0.5 (Cannot engage aerial units)
• 60 Zombies - BR 0.6 (Cannot engage aerial units)

Force 2:  Adult Red Dragon (BR 4.931)

Surprise: Neither side is surprised.

Round 1: Trazynel transforms into a giant bat and leads a swarm of his great bats to assault the dragon, surrounding it and raking it with their fangs and claws. They deal 2 BR of damage. The Dragon deals 1 BR of damage, taking out several bats with its tale.

Round 2: The bats deal 1 more BR of damage to the dragon. This proves to be more trouble than the dragon had bargained for, and it is seen flying away west over the mountains.

Outcome: Undead Victory

Casualties: 11 bats killed.

The Winter War: February 23

Day: February 23

Weather: 7 (Clear)

Initiative Order for the week: 

1. The Principality of Oraving
2. Beastman Hordes
3. Undead Legions
4. Men of Hambley
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

The Hesperite and Oraving Cavalry at 028,013 move south to 026,019.

Foiled in the woods of Arbelladon, the main force of Oraving cavalry recrosses the lake at 028,020, looking to intercept an attack on Hriving or Oraving.

The Slingers and Dwarven Heavy Infantry at the Bronzeborn Mine depart via the lake, sailing south.

The Beastmen march out from the Citadel and head directly towards Oraving. They are intercepted by the cavalry of Oraving at 028,020. A battle is fought.

Trazynel and his servants pass the walls of Hriving, arriving at 027,020.

Trolls and Lizardmen are rumored to be mustering at 030,008, no doubt concocting some fresh ruin for mankind.

The Red Dragon attacks the city of Hriving, bombarding it from the air. A battle is fought.

Reinforcements: The Oraving Slingers at the Bronzeborn Mine recruit 1 unit of Dwarven Heavy Infantry.

Battle of Oraving Fields (028,020)

Force 1: The Beastman Hordes - Total BR 37.09

• 1 company of 60 goblin Wolf Riders (spear, short sword, shield, leather, dire wolf), led by a 5 HD chieftain BR 6.5
• 1 company of 60 Orc Boar Riders (spear, scimitar, shield, scale, giant boar), led by the Fang of Vassuryn BR 8
• 1 company of 31 Slave Cataphracts led by a 5 HD Orc Chieftain BR 3.84
• 1 half-company of 60 Gnoll Heavy Infantry, led by a 6 HD Gnoll Chieftain BR 2
• 1 Company of 120 Gnoll Light Infantry BR 3
• 1 Company of 120 Bugbear Heavy Infantry BR 8
• 1 Company of 180 Slave Miltia BR 0.75
• 1 Company of 120 Slave Dwarf Heavy Infantry BR 3
• 1 Company of 120 Slave Heavy Infantry BR 2

Force 2: The Men of Oraving - Total BR 20.5

• 1 company of 60 Crusader Cavalry (Heavy Cavalry) led by a 7th level Human Cleric (027,018) BR 6
• 1 company of 60 Medium Cavalry (lance, shield, lamellar armor, and medium warhorse) led by a 7th level Human Fighter (027,018) BR 5
• 1 Company of 60 of Light Cavalry led by a Level 5 Human Figther (027,018) BR 3.5
• 1 Company of 60 Heavy Crusader Cavalry BR 6

Surprise: The Beastmen Hordes, glutted on the slaughter of the Citadel of the Eye of Law, are less wary than they should be in enemy territory, and are caught by surprise.

Surprise Round: The Men of Oraving surprise the Beastment Flank, charging them and dealing them 9 BR of damage.

Round 1: The Men of Oraving wheel and charge again, dealing another 6 BR of damage. The Beastmen fight ferociously, however, dealing 8 BR of damage to the men of Oraving. Despite their losses, the presence of the Fang of Vassuryn among them helps the Beastmen keep their morale, and they maintain their order, such as it is. 

Round 2: Defending their homeland, the Men of Oraving wheel and charge again, this time dealing 4 BR of damage. The Beastmen, for their part, fight with ferocity, pulling down screaming horses and tearing the throats out of riders with their teeth. They deal a full 9 BR of damage to the Men of Oraving. Wavering before the ferocity of this onslaught, the Men of Oraving flee back towards the city, and the retreat turns into a rout as the remaining cavalry are captured or slaughtered.

Outcome: Beastman Victory

Casualties: 

• Beastmen: 
• 1 half-company of 60 Gnoll Heavy Infantry
• 1 Company of 120 Gnoll Light Infantry
• 1 Company of 120 Bugbear Heavy Infantry
• 1 Company of 180 Slave Miltia
• 1 Company of 120 Slave Dwarf Heavy Infantry
• 1 Company of 120 Slave Heavy Infantry
• Men of Oraving:
• 1 company of 60 Crusader Cavalry (Heavy Cavalry) 
• 1 company of 60 Medium Cavalry 
• 1 Company of 60 of Light Cavalry 
• 1 Company of 60 Heavy Crusader Cavalry
• Slaves taken:
• 30 Light Cavalry
• 30 Medium Cavalry
• 60 Heavy Cavalry

Bombardment of Hriving (027,019)

Force 1: Adult Red Dragon (BR 4.931)

Force 2: Hriving Garrison (BR 5.5)

• 6 companies of 120 Militia/each, each led by a Level 5 Human Fighter
• 1 Company of 120 of Bowmen led by a Level 5 Human Fighter
• 1 company of the Red Legion (120 Heavy Infantry, spear, sword, chain, shield), good morale, led by a 7th Level Human Fighter

Surprise: No surprise.

Round 1: The Hriving Garrison fire at the great wyrm using the ballistae and other artillery pieces mounted on their walls, but are unsuccessful in landing a single shot as the dragon bombards them with fireball after fireball, dealing 5 BR of damage. Seemingly pleased with this result, for now, the dragon departs, leaving what is left of the garrison.

Outcome: Hriving Garrison severely depleted, but Hriving remains in the hands of the Men of the Principality of Oraving.

Casualties: 

• Hriving Garrison:
• 120 Bowmen
• 5 companies of 120 Militia
• 120 of the Red legion

The Winter War: February 22

Day: February 22

Weather: 9 (Light Rain - Troop movement reduced by 1/4th except on lake)

Initiative Order for the week: 

1. The Principality of Oraving
2. Beastman Hordes
3. Undead Legions
4. Men of Hambley
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

The Slingers from the Abbey of Igolb cross the lake to the Bronzeborn Mine.

1 Company of Medium Cavalry from the Abbey of Igolb join with the Hesper Crusader Cavalry at 028,013, attempting to flush Trazynel the Vampire Lord out of the Wraithwood with fire, but as yet to no avail.

1 Company of slingers from Hriving moves to Oraving to reinforce it.

2 Companies of Militia at 027,018 move to Hriving to reinforce it.

The cavalry massed at 027,018, together with Crusader cavalry from the Citadel, move to 030,020.

A great force of Beastmen (1 company of 60 Slave Infantry led by a 5 HD Orc Chieftain, 1 company of 120 Orc Bowmen led by a 5 HD Orc Chieftain, 1 company of 120 Gnoll Heavy Infantry, led by a 6 HD Gnoll Chieftain, 2 Companies of 120 Gnoll Light Infantry, 1 Company of 120 Bugbear Heavy Infantry, 1 Company of Goblin Slingers) issue out of the Ironburg and march on the Citadel of Law, attacking it. They are joined by the Beastman and Slave cavalry who manage to avoid the cavalry of the men of Oraving, recross the lake, and attack the Citadel of the Eye of Law from the other side. A battle is fought.

Trazynel emerges from the southern eaves of the Wraithwood, now accompanied by his Spectres and Wight as well as 60 Wolves, 120 Bats, and a company of massed vermin from the forest. His forces make it as far as the Necropolis (027,016).

Armed with the Scepter of Vassuyrn, the Elven horse archers leave the Men of Oraving and depart to 029,021, and begin using the powers of the Scepter to raise an army of woodland creatures to their aid. The elves at the Abbey of Igolb, meanwhile, quietly disband to take their chances in the forest.

As Beastmen harry the dwindling forces of Law in the Vale, a Red Dragon is spotted flying over the Lake.

Battle Resolutions

The Siege of the Citadel of the Eye of Law (028,018)

Force 1: The Men of the Citadel of the Eye of Law - Total BR: 11.5 (18.5 in siege)

• 3 companies of 120 Militia/each, each led by a Level 5 Human Fighter - BR 1.5 (+3 in siege)
• 1 Company of 120 Crusader Heavy Infantry led by a Level 5 Human Cleric - BR 2 (+1 in siege)
• 2 Companies of 120 Dwarven Heavy Infantry A each, commanded by a 7th Level Human Fighter - BR 6 (+2 in Siege)
• 1 Company of 120 Crusader Heavy Infantry led by a Level 5 Human Cleric - BR 2 (+1 in Siege)
• Officer: Level 7 Human Fighter | LA 5 SA 1 MM +1

Force 2: The Beastmen Hordes - Total BR: 38.84 (26.125 without breach)

• 1 company of 60 goblin Wolf Riders (spear, short sword, shield, leather, dire wolf), led by a 5 HD chieftain - BR 6.5 (BR reduced to 1.625 without breach)
• 1 company of 60 Orc Boar Riders (spear, scimitar, shield, scale, giant boar), led by the Fang of Vassuryn - BR 8 (BR reduced to 2 without breach)
• 1 company of 31 Slave Cataphracts led by a 5 HD Orc Chieftain - BR 3.84 (BR reduced to 1 without breach)
• 1 company of 60 Slave Infantry led by a 5 HD Orc Chieftain - BR 1
• 1 company of 120 Orc Bowmen led by a 5 HD Orc Chieftain - BR 1
• 1 company of 120 Gnoll Heavy Infantry, led by a 6 HD Gnoll Chieftain - BR 4 (half company lost)
• 2 Companies of 120 Gnoll Light Infantry - BR 6 (1 company lost)
• 1 Company of 120 Bugbear Heavy Infantry - BR 8
• 1 Company of Goblin Slingers - BR 0.5
• 6 Battering Rams - 1 BR
• Officer: The Fang of Vassuryn | LA 7 SA 2 MM +2

Surprise: The Beastman Hordes surprise the men of the Citadel.

Surprise Round: The Beastmen Hordes descend with fury upon the Citadel, storming its gates and dealing 5 BR of damage before the defenders are able to sound the alarm and put the Overlord's defensive plan into place. This gives the Beastmen Hordes control of the gates, allowing the Orc Boar Riders to ride through mounted.

Round 1: Rallying, the defenders inflict 8 BR of damage as the Beastmen press through the streets of the citadel, using caltrops, boiling oil, and anything else they can to slow the advance of the monsters. It isn't enough to stem the tide of sheer numbers, however, as the Beastmen are able to deal 9 BR of damage, driving the defenders back to the high place of the Citadel -- a temple on steep ground that does not allow the Beastmen to deploy their cavalry.

Round 2: The remaining defenders defend the central citadel to the last man, or dwarf, dealing 1 BR of damage before they are overwhelmed by the savage ferocity of the Beastmen.

Outcome: Beastman Victory.

Casualties: 180 Militia killed, 120 Heavy Infantry killed, 120 Dwarves killed. 180 Militia enslaved, 120 Heavy Infantry enslaved, 120 Dwarves enslaved. 60 Goblin Slingers killed, 60 Goblin Slingers wounded. 30 Slave Heavy Infantry killed, 30 Slave Heavy Infantry wounded. 60 Orc Bowmen killed, 60 Orc Bowmen wounded. 60 Gnoll Light Infantry killed, 60 Gnoll Light infantry wounded. 30 Gnoll Heavy Infantry killed, 30 Gnoll Heavy Infantry wounded.

The Winter War: February 21

Day: February 21

Weather: 9 (Light Rain - Troop movement reduced by 1/4th except on lake)

Initiative Order for the week: 

1. The Principality of Oraving
2. Beastman Hordes
3. Undead Legions
4. Men of Hambley
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements 

The Hesperite cavalry move from 028,013, escorting their wounded back to the Abbey of Igolb, which they garrison.

The captain of my crusader heavy cavalry presents the Trident to the captain of the Elven horse archers, in the hope that he may be able to break the bondage of his enslaved brethren:

"Hail, Elf-Marshall! Dark is the hour of our meeting, but the raiment of Elven cavaliers shines as a morning-star and I espy the light of a dawn soon breaking. I bring you a gift from the Overlord, and long may the Elvenking mark his generosity. Do not wonder! It is as you perceive: one of the three dragon's teeth that was lost. Recently was it won by the spilt blood of the men of Oraving, and great victories against the mountain-swine have we added to its renown. Not lightly do we regard these as a claim upon the fabled sceptre. Nevertheless, it the rightful heirloom of your kingdom, and to thee is it rightly returned according to the ancient oaths of friendships sworn between our peoples. Besides, if I judge it rightly, there are secrets within this that only an Elflord may reveal and command. 

Tardily the elves marched to the aid of our realm, and much grief was done in the Citadel because of it. Now you have suffered grim fortunes in the north, yet, lo! you spend the last of your strength in defense of our borders. Strange are the ways of the Elves to the eyes of men! Yet there must be wisdom in these designs, for so long have you endured. Or such is my hope."

Lamentation! Woe! Under the watchful eyes of elves and men, a force of Beastman cavalry has crossed the lake and stolen into the unguarded eaves of Arbelladon, pillaging its treasures, slaying the Elvenking, and slaughtering elven women and children. Whether the perfidious Beastmen (Boar Riders, Wolf Riders, and Slave Cataphracts) accomplished this by sorcery or guile, the result is the same: a great tragedy has befallen Vassuryn, the likes of which has not been seen for ages.

Trazynel, the Vampire Lord, does not move from the recesses of the forest, but there are rumors of dark things being there gathered to him as he calls upon the Children of the Night for aid...

The remaining Wood Elf troops are shaken by the downfall of Arbelladon. The Elven Light Infantry garrisoning Oraving deserts in the dead of night, taking to the hills. The other two remaining units -- one of which arrives today at the Abbey of Igolb -- are severely demoralized, but manage to hold together -- at least for now. [Remaining Elf troops must succeed at a daily morale test or be dissolved]

Reinforcements:

Oraving raises 1 company of 120 Light Infantry, led by a Level 5 Fighter.

Hriving raises 1 company of 120 Slingers, led by a Level 5 Fighter.

The Citadel of the Eye of Law raises 1 company of 60 Heavy Crusader Cavalary, led by a Level 7 Cleric.

The Abbey of Igolb raises 1 company of 60 Medium Cavalry, led by a Level 7 Cleric.

Pleased with the overthrow of their ancient enemy the Elven-king, the Underlords Below send 1 unit of 120 Bugbear Heavy Infantry, 1 unit of 120 Gnoll Light Infantry, and 1 unit of 120 Kobold Light Infantry to reinforce the Ironburg.

The Men of Hambley raise 1 Company of 60 Horse Archers at Fort Hambley.

The Winter War: February 20

Day: February 20

Weather: 8 (Clear - Troop movement reduced by 1/4th except on lake)

Initiative Order for the week: 

1. The Principality of Oraving
2. Beastman Hordes
3. Undead Legions
4. Men of Hambley
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements 

The Hesperite Crusaders at 028,015 move to waylay the Undead Hordes as they emerge from the forest at 028,013. A battle is fought.

1 company of 120 Crusader Heavy Infantry from the Abbey of Igolb disembark from the lake, arriving at the Citadel of the Eye of Law.

1 company of 120 militia from the Citadel and Hriving each move to 027,018 to join the cavalry forces massed there.

1 Company of militia and 1 company of the Red Legion (Heavy Infantry) from Oraving move to Hriving to garrison it.

You hear rumors of an attempt by the Men of Hambley to hire a party of adventurers to infiltrate Annalysorian and steal treasure and magical artefacts, but most of the adventurers attempting it fall prey to the monsters now inhabiting the ruins.

The 1 Company of Elven Heavy Infantry at 032,009 moves to 030,010.

The Elven Horse Archers in Oraving move to 027,018 to join the cavalry massing there.

Reinforcements:

1 Company of 120 Goblin Slingers arrives in the Ironburg to make war upon the surface.

Oraving, Hriving, and the Citadel of the Eye of Law raise 1 company of 120 Militia each.

Battle Outcomes

Battle at 028,013

Force 1: Crusaders of Hesper

• 1 unit of 60 Hesper Crusader Cataphract Cavalry, led by a Level 7 Cleric
• 1 units of 120 Hesper Crusader Heavy Infantry/each, each led by a Level 7 Cleric
• Officer: The High Abbot of Hesper, Level 7 Cleric
• Total BR: 9.5

Force 2: Undead Legions

• 1 Vampire
• 4 Spectres
• 1 Wight
• 100 Zombies
• 210 Skeletons
• Officer: Trazynel the Vampire Lord: LA 5 SA 1 MM 0
• Total BR: 14.3

Surprise: The Crusaders of Hesper catch the Vampire Lord and his shambling minions by surprise.

Surprise round: Holding aloft the holy symbol of Hesper (a set of bronze scales), the High Abbot drives the Vampire Lord from the battlefield. Additionally, the crusaders are able to deal 2 BR of damage to the Undead hordes as they emerge from the forest, before the latter have a chance to react.

Round 1: Wheeling and charging again, the Crusaders of Hesper deal 2 more damage. They take 2 BR of damage themsleves, though, as their heavy infantry are overwhelmed by the undead.

At the end of Round 1, the Undead retreat back into the forest (027,013), heeding the call of their master.

Outcome: Victory for the Crusaders of Hesper. 

Casualties: 

• 100 Zombies
• 210 Skeletons
• 1 Spectre
• 60 Crusader Heavy Infantry killed, 60 Crusader Heavy Infantry Wounded

The Winter War: February 19

Day: February 19

Weather: 9 (Light Rain - Troop movement halved except on lake)

Initiative Order for the week: 

• The Principality of Oraving
• Beastman Hordes
• Undead Legions
• Men of Hambley
• Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements 

There are no troop movements today.

The Winter War: February 18

Day: February 18

Weather: 10 (Heavy Rain - Troop movement halted except on lake)

Initiative Order for the week: 

1. The Principality of Oraving
2. Beastman Hordes
3. Undead Legions
4. Men of Hambley
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

The Undead Hordes massed at 026,016 move to 027,013.

The Winter War: February 17

Day: February 17

Weather: 10 (Heavy Rain - Troop movement halted except on lake)

Initiative Order for the week: 

1. The Principality of Oraving
2. Beastman Hordes
3. Undead Legions
4. Men of Hambley
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

Remaining Undead forces merge at 026,016.

Reinforcements:

1 Company of 120 Gnoll Light Infantry arrive at the Ironburg, sent by the Underlords below to bolster the forces of the Fang of Vassuryn.

The Winter War: February 16

Day: February 16

Weather: 9 (Light Rain - Troop movement halved due to mud)

Initiative Order for the week: 

1. The Principality of Oraving
2. Beastman Hordes
3. Undead Legions
4. Men of Hambley
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

1 unit of 60 Hesper Crusader Cataphract Cavalry and 1 unit of 120 Hesper Crusader Heavy Infantry depart the Citadel of the Eye of Law and move north across the lake to 028,015.

1 Company of 60 of Light Cavalry from Oraving, 1 company of 60 Medium Cavalry from Hriving, and 1 company of 60 Crusader Cavalry (Heavy Cavalry) from the Citadel muster at 027,018.

2 companies of 120 Dwarven Heavy Infantry each, led by the former Cataphract commander, arrive at the Citadel of the Eye of Law from across the lake.

Cavalry (Slave Cataphracts, Wolf Riders, and Boar Riders) from the Ironburg sally out and attempt to make a flying raid on the Undead army lying outside the Ironburg's gates. A battle is fought.

The Undead troops in the Arbelving Wood move out to 026,014. The Undead troops at the ruins of Fort Arbelving move to 026,015.

The Hambley forces massed at 032,007 and the Wood Elves massed at 032,009 converge upon the Ruins of Annalysorian, attempting to dislodge the Lizardmen and other monsters lurking in the ruins. A battle is fought.

The Hambley Dwarves and Heavy Infantry move from 034,010 to 032,010.

Elven Horse Archers from Arbelladon arrive at Oraving to strengthen its garrison.

Reinforcements:

Militia/Conscripts are raised at Oraving, Hriving, and the Citadel.

Battle Outcomes:

Third Battle of the Ironburg (025,016)

Force 1: Beastmen Cavalry - Total BR: 18.3

• Commander: 5 HD Orc Chieftain: LA 4 SA 1 MM 2
• 1 company of 60 goblin Wolf Riders (spear, short sword, shield, leather, dire wolf), led by a 5 HD chieftain - BR: 6.5
• 1 company of 60 Orc Boar Riders (spear, scimitar, shield, scale, giant boar), led by a 5 HD chieftain - BR: 8
• 1 company of 31 Slave Cataphracts led by a a 5 HD orc chieftain - BR: 3.8

Force 2: Undead Hordes - Total BR: 23.7

• Commander: Trazynel the Vampire Lord: LA 5 SA 1 MM 0
• 8 Spectres - 17 BR
• 3 Wraiths - 1.9 BR
• 2 Ghouls - 0.5 BR
• 394 Zombies - 3.94 BR
• 60 Skeletons - 0.3 BR

Surprise: The Undead Hordes are surprised by the Beastmen, who issue out in fury from half a dozen hidden holes in the mountainside, falling upon the shambolic hordes and ambushing them.

Surprise Round: The Beastmen cavalry smash into the flank of the unsuspecting Undead Horde, ripping through their lines as their shamans chant magics intended to help subdue their more powerful undead foes. They do 12 BR of damage. Despite the annihilation of over half his forces, Trazynel is able to draw up his remaining forces and prevent a route.

Round 1: Charging back into the flank of the Undead Host, the cavalry are able to deal 4 more BR of damage, taking no damage themselves as they move too fast for Trazynel's shambling servants to reach them in the rocky terrain of the mountains.

At this point, Trazynel withdraws with his remaining 2 Spectres from the Ironburg, moving back to 026,016.

Outcome: Unqualified victory for the Beastmen Hordes. Casualties: 60 Skeletons, 394 Zombies, 2 Ghouls, 3 Wraiths, 4 Spectres.

The Battle of Annalysorian (032,008)

Force 1: The Men of Hambley - Total BR: 12.5

• Commander: Level 5 Human Fighter - 
• 3 companies of 120 Light Infantry E/Hunters /each (spear, hand axe, shield, leather), each led by a 3rd level Human Ranger - 3 BR
• 1 company of 120 slingers, led by a 3rd level Human Ranger - 1 BR
• 1 company of 60 Light Cavalry (3 javelins, sword, shield, leather, light warhorse), led by a 3rd level Human Fighter - 3.5 BR
• 1 company of 60 Horse Archers led by a Level 5 Human Fighter - 5 BR

Force 2: The Wood Elves - Total BR: 20.5

• 2 Companies of 120 Elven Bowmen/each, each led by a 5th Level Elven Ranger - 7 BR
• 1 Company of 120 Elven Heavy Infantry A led by a 7th level Elven Spellsword - 4 BR
• 1 Company of 120 Elven Heavy Infantry B (spear, sword, shield, lamellar), led by a 7th level Elven Spellsword - 4.5 BR
• 1 Company of 120 Dwarven Heavy Infantry B, led by a 7th level Dwarven Vaultguard - 3.5 BR
• 1 Company of 120 Elven Light Infantry led by a 5th Level Elven Spellsword - 1.5 BR

Force 3: Monsters of Annalysorian - Total BR: 17.1

• Commander: 6 HD Lizardman Chief with the Shield of Vassuryn (+2 to defending fortifications)
• 1 Company of 120 Lizardmen Heavy Infantry - BR 7.5
• 1 Company of 120 Rock Baboons - BR 1.6
• 1 Company of 60 Chameleon Riders - BR 8

Surprise: The Lizardman Chieftain splits his forces in two, laying traps and ambushes in preparation for a long running battle to the Acropolis. As the Wood Elves march into the city, they are ambushed by the Lizardmen, their ancient and hated foes. The Men of Hambley, more cautious, are not caught in the ambush.

Surprise Round: Ambushed, the Elves take 2 BR of damage before the Elven Commander is able to rally his troops to push towards the Acropolis.

Round 1: The Men of Hambley and the Elves assault the Acropolis from the North and South respectively. Thanks to the magical resistance of the Shield of Vassuryn, it is hard going. At the end of a long hour of fighting, the Men of Hambley deal 1 BR of damage, and the Wood Elves deal 3 BR of damage. They are repulsed with losses, however: The Men of Hambley take 3 BR of damage, and the Wood Elves take 4 BR of damage. Demoralized, the Elven forces begin to waver.

Round 2: The commanders renew the assault, the Men of Hambley dealing 1 BR of damage, and the disorganized Wood Elves dealing 1 BR of damage as well. The Men of Hambley suffer another 1 BR of losses, while the Wood Elves are repulsed with 3 BR of losses. This, coupled with the might of the Shield of Vassuryn and the demoralizing effect of the ruins of their ancient city, causes many of the remaining Elven forces to flee the field of battle. The Elven Commander withdraws with his remaining units, hoping to prevent a total route.

Round 3: Still in good order, the Men of Hambley renew their assault on the Acropolis. They're able to make no headway, however, and are repulsed with 2 BR of damage. Seeing that their allies have fled the field, and that the Beastmen have some kind of magical aid, the Men of Hambley are completely shattered, and their remaining units flee the field.

Outcome: Victory for the Lizardmen. Casualties: All Hambley forces scattered or eaten by the Lizardmen. All Elves except for 1 Company of Elven Heavy Infantry A scattered or eaten by the Lizardmen. 120 Rock Baboons killed, 120 Rock Baboons wounded or scattered. 15 Chameleon Riders killed, 15 Chameleon Riders Wounded or Scattered. 

Remaining BR of forces in Annalysorian: 11.5 (120 Lizardmen Heavy Infantry, 30 Chamelon Riders)

Known Troop Locations as of Week 2

The Principality of Oraving

Oraving (028,021)

• 1 company of the Red Legion (120 Heavy Infantry, spear, sword, chain, shield), good morale, led by a 7th Level Human Fighter
• 2 companies of 120 Militia/each, each led by a Level 5 Human Fighter
• 1 Company of 60 of Light Cavalry led by a Level 5 Human Figther

Hriving (027,019)

• 1 company of 60 Medium Cavalry (lance, shield, lamellar armor, and medium warhorse) led by a 7th level Human Fighter
• 2 companies of 120 Militia/each, each led by a Level 5 Human Fighter
• 1 Company of 120 of Bowmen led by a Level 5 Human Fighter

Citadel of the Eye of Law (028,018)

• 1 company of 60 Crusader Cavalry (Heavy Cavalry) led by a 7th level Human Cleric
• 1 unit of 60 Hesper Crusader Cataphract Cavalry, led by a Level 7 Cleric
• 1 units of 120 Hesper Crusader Heavy Infantry/each, each led by a Level 7 Cleric
• 2 companies of 120 Militia/each, each led by a Level 5 Human Fighter
• 1 Company of 120 Crusader Heavy Infantry led by a Level 5 Human Cleric

The Abbey of Igolb (030,011)

• 1 company of 120 slingers led by a 5th level Human Fighter
• 1 Company of 120 Crusader Heavy Infantry led by a Level 5 Human Cleric

On the Lake:

• 2 Companies of 120 Dwarven Heavy Infantry A each, commanded by a 7th Level Human Fighter

The Wood Elves of Arbelladon

032,009 (Outside the Ruins of Annalysorian)

• 2 Companies of 120 Elven Bowmen/each, each led by a 5th Level Elven Ranger
• 1 Company of 120 Elven Heavy Infantry A led by a 7th level Elven Spellsword
• 1 Company of 120 Elven Heavy Infantry B (spear, sword, shield, lamellar), led by a 7th level Elven Spellsword
• 1 Company of 120 Dwarven Heavy Infantry B, led by a 7th level Dwarven Vaultguard
• 1 Company of 120 Elven Light Infantry led by a 5th Level Elven Spellsword

Oraving (028,021)

• 1 Company of 120 Elven Light Infantry (spear, short sword, shield, leather), led by a 5th level Elven Spellsword

Arbelladon (031,019)

• 1 Company of 60 Elven Horse Archers, led by a Level 7 Spellsword

The Men of Hambley

030,005 (Fort Hambley)

• 1 Company of 120 Light Infantry A
• 1 Company of 120 Bowmen

032,007 (Outside the Ruins of Annalysorian)

• 3 companies of 120 Light Infantry E/Hunters /each (spear, hand axe, shield, leather), each led by a 3rd level Human Ranger, and 
• 1 company of 120 slingers, led by a 3rd level Human Ranger 
• 1 company of 60 Light Cavalry (3 javelins, sword, shield, leather, light warhorse), led by a 3rd level Human Fighter, 
• 1 company of 60 Horse Archers led by a Level 5 Human Fighter
• 1 company of 120 Heavy Infantry A (spear, sword, shield, banded), led by a 5th level Human Fighter

034,010 (Along the East Shore)

• 1 company of 120 Heavy Infantry A (spear, sword, shield, banded), led by a 5th level Human Fighter,
• 1 Company of Dwarven Heavy Infantry A led by a 5th level Dwarven Vaultguard

The Beastman Hordes

025,016 (The Ironburg)

• 1 company of 60 goblin Wolf Riders (spear, short sword, shield, leather, dire wolf), led by a 5 HD chieftain
• 1 company of 60 Orc Boar Riders (spear, scimitar, shield, scale, giant boar), led by the Fang of Vassuryn
• 1 company of 60 Slave Infantry led by a 5 HD Orc Chieftain
• 1 company of 31 Slave Cataphracts led by a 5 HD Orc Chieftain
• 1 company of 120 Orc Bowmen led by a 5 HD Orc Chieftain
• 1 company of 120 Kobold Light Infantry, led by a 3 HD Kobold Chieftain
• 1 company of 120 Gnoll Heavy Infantry, led by a 6 HD Gnoll Chieftain
• 1 Company of 120 Gnoll Longbowmen led by a 6 HD Gnoll Chieftain

The Undead Legions

025,016 (Outside the Ironburg)

• 8 Spectres
• 3 Wraiths
• 2 Ghouls
• 394 Zombies
• 60 Skeletons

027,011 (Arbelving Wood)

• 1 Spectre
• 50 Zombies
• 90 Skelletons

026,012 (Fort Arbelving Ruins)

• 1 Spectre
• 1 Wight
• 50 Zombies
• 120 Skelletons

The Winter War: February 15

Day: February 15

Weather: 8 (Clear - Troop movement halved due to mud)

Initiative Order for the week: 

1. The Principality of Oraving
2. Beastman Hordes
3. Undead Legions
4. Men of Hambley
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

The cataphract commander at the Bronzeborn Mine hires another unit of Dwarven Heavy Infantry A (depleting it of mercenaries available for hire this week), and then begins sailing across the lake with his two companies of Dwarves.

The Spectre at 027,011 raises 90 Skeletons.

The Spectre at 026,012 raises 120 Skeletons and 1 Wight.

1 Company of Light Infantry move from Shantytown to garrison Fort Hambley. 

The following units at 031,006

• 1 company of 120 Heavy Infantry A (spear, sword, shield, banded), led by a 5th level Human Fighter, 
• 2 companies of 120 Light Infantry E/Hunters /each (spear, hand axe, shield, leather), each led by a 3rd level Human Ranger, and 
• 1 company of 120 slingers, led by a 3rd level Human Ranger 

move to join the following troops at 032,007:

• 1 company of 60 Light Cavalry (3 javelins, sword, shield, leather, light warhorse), led by a 3rd level Human Fighter, 
• 1 company of 60 Horse Archers led by a Level 5 Human Fighter, 
• 1 company of 120 Light Infantry E/Hunters (spear, hand axe, shield, leather), led by a 3rd level Human Ranger 

The Hambley force of Heavy Infantry and Dwarves at the Bronzeborn mine moves from 034,012 to 034,010, unable to move any further because of the mud.

With all of their forces landed after being delayed by storms on the lake, an Elven force is finally able to move from their camp on the shore at 031,010 to 032,009, just outside the Ruins of Annaylsorian. This force is composed of: 

• 2 Companies of 120 Elven Bowmen/each
• 1 Company of 120 Elven Heavy Infantry A
• 1 Company of 120 Elven Heavy Infantry B (spear, sword, shield, lamellar), led by a 7th level Elven Spellsword
• 1 Company of 120 Dwarven Heavy Infantry B
• 1 Company of 120 Elven Light Infantry

Reinforcements: 

• The Spectre at 027,011 raises 90 Skeletons.
• The Spectre at 026,012 raises 120 Skeletons and 1 Wight.
• The Principality of Oraving hires a Company of 120 Dwarven Heavy Infantry A

The Winter War: February 14

Day: February 14

Weather: 9 (Light Rain - Troop movement impossible except on lake)

A proclamation goes out from the Citadel of the Eye to all points of the Principality, beginning thus:

""Where the Eye turns, the darkness of Chaos recedes. It gazes this way, and the mists retreat. It looketh into the abyss, and the tempests abate."

And wheresoever the righteous man steps, the shadows fly and light reveals the order of nature which always endureth, but was hid; was assailed, but was never conquered. Was it not so even since the First Days, when the Great Dragon of the Void was broken and cast down, and his bones bent into the land, and its ceaselessly beating wings fixed into the veil of the firmament? Thus Vassuryn was held subject to the Law, and his defiance availed him nothing. Likewise did the fiery sword of Atheldard reckon with the tyranny of Traznyel. If it was thus in the afore times when Chaos was strong, shall it be different now, in the light of the sun, beneath the gaze of the Eye All-Conquering? Therefore do not fear, but gird your weapons and go forth boldly like your ancestors. 

And if your brother should perish, neither should you fear him; dress him and bury him with honor, according as you have been taught, and no invisible spirit shall again stir his bones. But if in haste of peril, as on the battlefield, the fallen may not be afforded full Rite of Burial, then the expedience of the Lesser Rite shall suffice, and will be thought good. For the Eye of Law is not blind, and knows your purpose is to deny the Enemy the chance to desecrate the good subjects of the Law. By this manner then shall you first sever the crown of reason from the heart, and submit the body to purifying flame..."

Over the course of the next week, bards and alewives begin spreading the story of Trazynel: that he was a cuckold, that he was known to engage in various depraved acts because of his madness, and other even more uncomplimentary things are whispered about him.

Initiative Order for the week:

1. The Undead Legions
2. Men of Hambley
3. The Beastman Hordes
4. Principality of Oraving
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

The Undead legions remaining in the Necropolis vacate the ruins, marching on the Ironburg. Small bands of zombies are sent roving into the mountains, seeking for secret entrances into the Ironburg's tunnels, however these are all caught and killed by the Beastman sentries.

Reinforcements:

The Beastman Hordes: 

• Ironburg: 1 Company of 120 Gnoll Longbowmen led by a 6 HD Gnoll Chieftain

The Men of Hambely receive the following reinforcements as they call in their vassals and arm their citizens:

• Oraving: 1 Company of 60 of Light Cavalry led by a Level 5 Human Figther
• Hriving: 1 Company of 120 of Bowmen led by a Level 5 Human Fighter
• The Citadel of the Eye of Law: 1 Company of 120 Crusader Heavy Infantry led by a Level 5 Human Cleric
• The Abbey of Igolb: 1 Company of 120 Crusader Heavy Infantry led by a Level 5 Human Cleric

The Men of Hambley receive the following recruits, drawn together from seagoing mercenaries and the settlers drawn to the newfound prosperity of Fort Hambley:

• Fort Hambley: 1 Company of 120 Bowmen, led by a Level 3 Human Ranger
• Shantytown: 1 Company of Light Infantry, led by a Level 3 Human Ranger

The Wood Elves of Arbelladon raise the following troops in their Elven fastness:

• Arbelladon: 1 Company of 60 Elven Horse Archers, led by a Level 7 Spellsword

The Winter War: February 13

Day: February 13

Weather: 10 (Heavy Rain - Troop movement impossible except on lake)

Initiative Order for the week:

1. The Undead Legions
2. Men of Hambley
3. The Beastman Hordes
4. Principality of Oraving
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

1 Spectre and 50 zombies march to 027,011 and begin raising the undead from the battlefield.

1 Spectre and 50 zombies march to 026,012 and begin raising the undead from the ruins of Fort Arbelving.

A company of Elven Bowmen land at the north end of the lake, at 031,010.

The former Cataphract Commander or Oraving arrives in a small ship at the Bronzeborn Mine, and recruits a unit of 120 Dwarven Heavy Infantry A.

Reinforcements:

Units of Militia are raised at Oraving, Hriving, and the Citadel of the Eye (120 Militia/Conscripts each). 

The Men of Oraving recruit 1 unit of 120 Dwarven Heavy Infantry A at the Bronzeborn Mine.

The Undead Legions outside the Ironburg (025,016) raise 60 skeletons, 134 zombies, 2 ghouls, and 1 spectre.

The Winter War: February 12

Day: February 12

Weather: 11 (Freezing Rain and Snow - Troop movement impossible)

1. Initiative Order for the week:
2. The Undead Legions
3. Men of Hambley
4. The Beastman Hordes
5. Principality of Oraving
6. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

There are no troop movements today.

Reinforcements

The Underlords below send a company of 120 Gnoll Heavy Infantry to the Ironburg, to assist the Fang of Vassuryn in waging war upon the surface dwellers.

The Winter War: February 11

Near dawn on the morning of February 11, every sentient creature on the island of Vassuryn hears the same message, magically projected across all of their consciousnesses at once, grating like fingernails on a blackboard:

LAMENTATION AND WOE! LONG HAVE I WAITED IN THE BOWELS OF THE EARTH, WHILE THE OFFSPRING OF THOSE WHO BETRAYED ME WALKED UNDER THE LIGHT OF DAY, AND ATE THE FAT OF THE LAND, AND DRANK OF THE GOOD THINGS OF THE EARTH IN THE LAND OF THE LIVING. BUT NO MORE. THE TRAITOR'S DAY HAS COME TO AN END. NOW FALLS THE UNQUIET NIGHT, WHEN MY CHILDREN WILL GNAW THE BONES OF THE FAT CHILDREN OF THE DAY, AND MY OFFSPRING WILL DRINK THE BLOOD OF THE MEN OF THE EARTH UNDER A SUNLESS SKY. I AM TRAZYNEL, AND I HAVE RETURNED.

Day: February 11

Weather: 12 (Freezing Rain and Snow - Troop movement impossible)

Initiative Order for the week:

1. The Undead Legions
2. Men of Hambley
3. The Beastman Hordes
4. Principality of Oraving
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

1 Spectre and 50 Zombies move to the mountain pass outside the Ironburg (025,016) and start raising the bodies of the dead.

2 Spectres and 100 Zombies movie to 027,013.

Reinforcements

120 Kobold Light Infantry arrive at the Ironburg, sent from the Underlords below to make war on mankind.

The Winter War: February 10

Day: February 10

Weather: 10 (Heavy Rain - Movement reduced by 1/2)

Initiative Order for the week:

1. The Undead Legions
2. Men of Hambley
3. The Beastman Hordes
4. Principality of Oraving
5. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

The Undead in the Necropolis continue to lurk among the ruins. A heavy mist covers the Necropolis, but none of the Dead have as yet ventured forth.

The Hambley force of Heavy Infantry and Dwarves at the Bronzeborn mine moves to 034,012, unable to move any farther because of the heavy rains.

The Hambley Cavalry in the Nora-To valley moves to 032,007, where they are joined by the Nora-To Temple Garrison. 

The garrison of Fort Hambley moves to 031,006.

The Beastmen Hordes manage to re-open the tunnels of the Ironburg, although as yet no reinforcements are forthcoming from their Underlords below.

New units of Militia are raised at the Citadel of the Eye of Law, Hriving, and Oraving. 

A ship departs from the Citadel, sailing East across the lake with great speed.

The High Abbot, along with the other cavalry of the Men of Oraving, muster at 028,018, drawn up in good order outside the Citadel gates. Heavy Infantry from Oraving march toward the Citadel to garrison it, but due to the heavy rains, they only make it as far as 028,019. Clerics of Hesper and the Eye of Law begin the process of preparing the Citadel to withstand an assault from the Undead.

Elven ships continue to move up the lake.

Reinforcements: Militia raised at Oraving (028,021), Hriving (027,019), and the Citadel (028,018). 1 Spectre is raised in the Necropolis.

The Winter War: February 9

Day: February 9

Weather: 9 (Light Rain - Muddy roads mean that movement is still reduced by 1/4th)

Initiative Order for the week:

1. Armies of Immianthe
2. The Undead Legions
3. Men of Hambley
4. The Beastman Hordes
5. Principality of Oraving
6. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

The perfidious servants of Law have assassinated the Lady Immianthe! Her troops are left leaderless, scattered to the winds...

The Undead legions remain in the Necropolis, continuing to grow their power... For now...

A secretive force of Heavy Infantry belonging to the Men of Hambley, which had traveled to the Bronzeborn mine by stealth, is seen entering the mine, where they find three Dwarven companies available for recruiting. They recruit a unit of 120 Dwarven Heavy Infantry A, armed with a spear, a hand axe, a shield, and banded plate. 

The Beastmen Hordes occupy the Ironburg, and begin the process of reopening the tunnels to the Netherdark in order to restore their lines of supply and reinforcement.

The Overlord of Oraving receives a response from the High Abbot: "The enemies of Mankind are the Enemies of Hesper, but if your sins were not great, these plagues would not have been visited upon you. We will aid you in your war, but what lands we conquer we will keep for ourselves, for the glory of our god. And yet, Hesper is not jealous, and cares not for the names of living princes to be spoken by those who inhabit his lands. He claims total sovereignty only over the dead. Therefore, tithes will be given to you for those lands, in repayment of what the vile ones took from you." 

Faced with no other choice, the Overlord accepts these terms, and the agreement is sealed.

The Crusaders of Hesper move through the pass, unchecked by the Beastmen (who do not themselves desire battle), and march immediately to the Necropolis, assaulting it immediately. They are joined by Crusader Cavalry (Heavy Cavalry) and a company of Elven Light Infantry of the Citadel of the Eye of Law. A battle is fought.

Elven Heavy arrive at the Bronzeborn Mine, and recruit a unit of 120 Dwarven Heavy Infantry A, armed with a spear, a hand axe, a shield, and banded plate. 

Elven ships are seen moving up the lake.

Reinforcements: 

• Hambley recruited a band of Dwarven Heavy Infantry at the Bronzeborn Mine
• The Wood Elves recruited a band of Dwarven Heavy Infantry at the Bronzeborn Mine
• Three Wraiths are raised at the Necropolis

Battle Resolutions

The Third Battle at the Necropolis (027,016)

Force 1: Crusaders of Hesper

• 1 unit of 120 Light Infantry, led by a Level 5 Fighter - BR: 1
• 1 unit of 60 Medium Cavalry, led by a Level 5 Fighter - BR: 5
• 1 unit of 120 Bowmen, led by a Level 5 Fighter - BR: 1.5
• 1 unit of 60 Cataphract Cavalry, led by a Level 7 Cleric - BR: 7.5
• 2 units of 120 Heavy Infantry/each, each led by a Level 7 Cleric - BR: 4
• Total BR: 19
• Commander: Level 7 Cleric |  STR: 12 INT: 11 WIS: 15 DEX: 16 CON: 13 CHA: 15 (+2) | LA 7 SA 1 MM +2

Force 1a: Citadel Garrison

• 1 unit of 60 Heavy Cavalry, led by a 7th Level Human Cleric - BR: 6
• 1 unit of 120 Elven Light Infantry, led by a 5th level Elven Spellsword - BR: 1.5
• Total BR: 7.5
• Commander: Level 7 Cleric |  STR: 12 INT: 11 WIS: 15 DEX: 16 CON: 13 CHA: 15 (+2) | LA 7 SA 1 MM +2

Force 2: Undead Legions

• 150 Skeletons - BR: 0.75
• 120 Zombies - BR: 1.2
• 12 Ghouls - BR: 3.5
• 9 Spectres - BR: 19.3
• 3 Wraiths - BR: 1.9
• Total BR: 26.65

Force 1 & 1a are surprised.

Surprise Round: As the Crusader and Citadel forces converge on the necropolis, a foul mist rises to obscure their vision. Out of it, the screams of the dead pierce the silence and tear courage from the hearts of men. Wraiths, ghouls, and other foul creatures emerge from the mist, pulling men into their doom, dealing 11 BR of damage. The Crusaders and Citadel Garrison fight back valiantly, the Clerics of Hesper raising holy symbols and relics to lead their men on into the darkness. The mists protecting the Necropolis, the uncertain terrain of the ruins, and the strong evil that is there makes it difficult for the Crusaders to deploy their cavalry. All the same, though, many of the Undead are banished, and they inflict 7.5 BR of damage.

Thanks to their superior morale, the Crusader troops do not route, but the High Abbot withdraws his joint forces back in the direction of the Citadel of the Eye of Law, deeming his strength as-yet insufficient to take the Necropolis in a single assault. 

Outcome: Crusader-Garrison force repulsed, with losses. 

Casualties: 

• 60 Elven Light Infantry Slain, 60 Elven Light Infantry wounded or scattered; 
• 60 Crusader light infantry slain and raised as undead, 60 wounded and scattered; 
• 60 Crusader Bowmen slain and raised as undead, 60 Crusader Bowmen wounded and scattered; 
• 30 Crusader Medium Cavalry slain and raised as undead, 30 Crusader Medium Cavalry wounded and scattered;
• 60 Crusader Heavy Infantry slain and raised as undead, 60 Crusader Heavy Infantry wounded and scattered;
• 150 skeletons
• 120 zombies
• 12 ghouls
• 1 spectre

Additional reinforcements:

• The Undead Legions raise 210 zombies

The Winter War: February 8

Day: February 8

Weather: 8 (Clear - Muddy roads mean that movement is still reduced by 1/4th)

Initiative Order for the week:

1. Armies of Immianthe
2. The Undead Legions
3. Men of Hambley
4. The Beastman Hordes
5. Principality of Oraving
6. Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Troop Movements

1 company of 120 Lizardmen Light Infantry move from Annalysorian to 030,009.

The Lizardfolk at Fort Arbelving complete their task of reducing it to a Ruin.

The Undead legions continue to grow in power in the Necropolis, but as yet there has been no further movement from them.

Horse Archers from Shantytown move to meet up with the Light Cavalry patrolling the Nora-To Valley.

The Beastmen Hordes, fresh from the sack of Ardyle, march to the Ironburg and attempt to retake it, just as the sackers of the Ironburg were issuing out to attempt to set an ambush for them. A battle is fought.

1 Company of 120 Elven Light Infantry move from Hriving to fortify the Citadel of the Eye of Law.

The company of Elven Heavy Infantry on the Eastern Shore moves to 033,014.

Elven ships are once again seen moving up the lake from Arbelladon.

In the pass above Ironburg (024,015), a crusading force appears, their banners showing the heraldry of Hesper, the Neutral-aligned God of Death. They are in number:

• 1 unit of 120 Light Infantry, led by a Level 5 Fighter
• 1 unit of 60 Medium Cavalry, led by a Level 5 Fighter
• 1 unit of 120 Bowmen, led by a Level 5 Fighter
• 1 unit of 60 Cataphract Cavalry, led by a Level 7 Cleric
• 2 units of 120 Heavy Infantry/each, each led by a Level 7 Cleric

Responding to messages for help from Oraving, the High Abbot has ridden with a force of crusaders he was already mustering when the Undead Uprising was detected at the Necropolis. He offers to assist the Overlord with his Undead problems, in exchange for 6 hexes of land on which he may build a glorious cathedral and monastery dedicated to Hesper. Additionally, he expects the Overlord to build a great cathedral in Oraving at his own expense. 

The Overlord's reply: 

I, who have long seen through the Eye of Law, have at last heard the tongue of Hesper, and grievous is its hearing. Evil days are these when the brothers of men ride not for love of kin, but naming their price, and one so dear as half their brother's patrimony! It was not always so in the days of my fathers, who carved this foothold in the valley against the bones of the orc and the teeth of the snake, and made safe the flank of the ultramontane folk. Among the people of the Eye of Law, it was not even so yesterday, when the men of the valley spent their lives fearlessly, aye, and the lives of their sons to, to break the power of the Underlords, the very fiends who unleashed undeath. With my own hands I dealt them the sorest stroke, wresting from them the Ironburg; never again will that abyss vomit forth its demons, and for long generations may the folk beyond the mountains sleep in peace because of it! It was not the priests of Hesper, but the priest of the Eye, who scoured the Slave Pits. It was the Priest of the Eye who slew the Basilisk and still stands defiant as the Bane of Immianthe! 

Bitter indeed is the tongue of Hesper, speaking through the mouth of one who I had hoped to speak sweet words of friendship! But the pride of Oraving is humbled and the flower of her chivalry has gone to their tombs, so it must be as you say. I, loving my people, and our pleasant meadows, our fair towers, and the bright shores of the Lake, shall not stake them on vainglory. I will not haggle with thee, except this: against more than just the Undead must your valiant arms be turned! The shambolic horde is but one of our foes, and the least numerous. If the gnoll and the goblin are not slain at last, and the Serpent of Immianthe not cleft and cast into the dirt, there will be not a foot of land in the Vale spared for the Sons of Men, nor undefiled stone to build your temple. Only then, having won with us the peace of the Vale, Hesper be rightly praised by the living lips therein.

Reinforcements:

• 4 more spectres are raised in the Necropolis.

Battle Outcomes

The Second Battle of the Ironburg (025,016)

Force 1: 1 company of 60 goblin Wolf Riders (spear, short sword, shield, leather, dire wolf), led by a 5 HD chieftain, 1 company of 60 Orc Boar Riders (spear, scimitar, shield, scale, giant boar), led by the Fang of Vassuryn, 1 company of 120 Slave Infantry led by a 5 HD Orc Chieftain, 1 company of 120 Orc Bowmen led by a 5 HD Orc Chieftain

• BR: 16.5
• Leader: The Fang of Vassuryn (Sentient Sword): LA 7 SA 2 MM +2

Force 2: 1 Company of 45 Heavy Cataphracts of Oraving led by a Level 7 Human Fighter wielding the Scepter of Vassuryn (a Trident of Command, enemy forces suffer -2 Morale). 1 Company of the Red Legion (120 Heavy Infantry) led by a Level 7 Fighter.

• BR: 7.5
• Officer: Level 7 Human Fighter - STR: 14 INT: 13 WIS: 11  DEX: 5 CON: 7 CHA: 11 - LA 5 SA 1 MM +1

Neither side is surprised.

Round 1: The Beastmen descend upon the sackers of the Ironburg with great fury, dealing 5.5 BR of damage as their skilled beast riders suffer no penalty from fighting in the mountains. By contrast, the Men of Oraving struggle against the bestial onslaught, dealing only 1 BR of damage. Horses scream as they are pulled down by wolves, and the battle-boars of the orcs glut themselves upon the bodies of the wounded and dying. The Red Legion is broken, but the commander of the Cataphracts manages to keep sixteen of his riders together, and attempts to withdraw from the field with them and the Scepter of Vassuryn. However, a sudden charge of the boar-riders breaks them, and the remaining Cataphracts are routed, fleeing in all directions. The commander of the Cataphracts manages to flee with the Scepter, making it to the Citadel of the Eye of Law with the relic in hand.

Outcome: Victory for the Beastmen Hordes. Casualties: 60 Heavy Infantry killed, 60 Heavy Infantry captured and enslaved, 14 cataphracts killed, 31 cataphracts captured and enslaved, 60 slave infantry killed, 60 slave infantry wounded or scattered.

Week 2 Known Troop Position Summary

• Immianthe = Green
• Hambley = Orange
• Oraving = Blue
• Elves = Yellow
• Beastmen = Black
• Undead = Purple

The Armies of Immianthe

Fort Arbelving Ruins (026,012)

• 3 companies of 120 Lizardmen Light Infantry/each (5 darts, spiked club, shield), each commanded by a 6 HD chieftain

Ruins of Annalysorian (032,008)

• 1 company of 120 Rock Baboons led by a 5 HD Lizardman handler
• 1 companies of 120 Lizardmen Heavy Infantry (3 javelins, spiked club, shield, leather) commanded by a 6 HD chieftain
• 1 company of 120 Lizardmen Light Infantry (5 darts, spiked club, shield), commanded by a 6 HD chieftain
• 1 Basilisk

The Men of Hambley

Patrolling Nora-To Valley (030.006, 031.006, 032.006, 033.006, 033.003, 032.003, 030.005)

• 1 company of 60 Light Cavalry (3 javelins, sword, shield, leather, light warhorse), led by a 3rd level Human Fighter

Fort Hambley (030,005)

• 1 company of 120 Heavy Infantry A (spear, sword, shield, banded), led by a 5th level Human Fighter
• 2 companies of 120 Light Infantry E/Hunters /each (spear, hand axe, shield, leather), each led by a 3rd level Human Ranger
• 1 company of 120 slingers, led by a 3rd level Human Ranger

Nora-To Temple (033,005)

• 1 company of 120 Light Infantry E/Hunters (spear, hand axe, shield, leather), led by a 3rd level Human Ranger

Shantytown (032,002)

• 1 company of 60 Horse Archers led by a Level 5 Human Fighter

The Principality of Oraving

Ironburg (025,016)

• 45 Cataphracts (composite bow, lance, sword, shield, plate, lamellar-barded medium warhorse), led by a 7th Level Human Fighter wielding the Scepter of Vassuryn
• 1 company of the Red Legion (120 Heavy Infantry, spear, sword, chain, shield), good morale, each led by a 7th Level Human Fighter

Oraving (028,021)

• 1 company of the Red Legion (120 Heavy Infantry, spear, sword, chain, shield), good morale, led by a 7th Level Human Fighter

Hriving (027,019)

• 1 company of 60 Medium Cavalry (lance, shield, lamellar armor, and medium warhorse) led by a 7th level Human Fighter

Citadel of the Eye of Law (028,018)

• 1 company of 60 Crusader Cavalry (Heavy Cavalry) led by a 7th level Human Cleric

The Abbey of Igolb (030,011)

• 1 company of 120 slingers led by a 5th level Human Fighter

The Wood Elves of Arbelladon

Hriving (027,019)

• 1 Company of 120 Elven Light Infantry (spear, short sword, shield, leather), led by a 5th level Elven Spellsword

Eastern Shore (031,017)

• 1 Company of 120 Elven Heavy Infantry B (spear, sword, shield, lamellar), led by a 7th level Elven Spellsword

Oraving (028,021)

• 1 Company of 120 Elven Heavy Infantry B (spear, sword, shield, lamellar), led by a 7th level Elven Spellsword
• 1 Company of 120 Elven Light Infantry (spear, short sword, shield, leather), led by a 5th level Elven Spellsword
• 1 Company of 120 Elven Bowmen (shortbow, dagger, leather), led by a 5th level Elven Ranger

Arbelladon

• 1 Company of 120 Elven Light Infantry (spear, short sword, shield, leather), led by a 5th level Elven Spellsword
• 1 Company of 120 Elven Bowmen (shortbow, dagger, leather), led by a 5th level Elven Ranger

The Beastman Hordes

Charred ruins of Ardyle (026,013)

• 1 company of 60 goblin Wolf Riders (spear, short sword, shield, leather, dire wolf), led by a 5 HD chieftain
• 1 company of 60 Orc Boar Riders (spear, scimitar, shield, scale, giant boar), led by the Fang of Vassuryn
• 1 company of 120 Slave Infantry
• 1 company of 120 Orc Bowmen

The Undead Legions

The Ruined Necropolis (027,016)

• 5 Spectres
• 12 ghouls
• 150 skeletons
• 120 zombies

The Winter War: February 7

Day: February 7

Weather: 9 (Light Rain - Visibility and Movement are halved)

Initiative Order for the week:

1. Armies of Immianthe
2. Men of Hambley
3. Principality of Oraving
4. Wood Elves of Arbelladon
5. The Beastman Hordes
6. The Undead Legions

Troop Movements

The 2 Companies of Lizardmen Light Infantry reach Fort Arbelving today, and help their Lizardmen comrades with the task of reducing it to a ruin, which they will finish tomorrow.

The remaining Red Legion and cataphracts continue to pillage the Ironburg, completing its destruction. Reinforcements can no longer be sent to the Beastman Hordes through the Ironburg.

The Elven Light Infantry that had been sailing up and down Lake Autumndim land and reinforce the garrison of Hriving. A company of 120 Heavy Elven Infantry move along the east coast of the lake, to 031,017.

1 company of 60 Goblin Wolf Riders and 120 Slave Infantry march south along with a newly arrived force of 120 Orc bowmen, sacking the undefended village of Ardyle (026,013) and destroying it. They are met there by the company of 60 Orc Boar Riders led by the Fang of Vassuryn.

The Undead Legions remain in the necropolis... for now...

Reinforcements

The Armies of Immianthe gain a unit of 120 Rock Baboons. Semi-intelligent and carnivorous, these creatures are not suitable for fielding as organized troops, but can be set to guard ruins or other sites of importance and will do so ferociously.

The Men of Hambley recruit 1 unit of 120 Slingers at Fort Hambley, and manage to hire a troop of 60 Horse Archers at Shantytown!

The Principality of Oraving raise the following new reinforcements: 

• 1 company of the Red Legion (120 Heavy Infantry) at Oraving
• 1 company of 60 Medium Cavalry (lance, shield, lamellar armor, and medium warhorse) at Hriving,
• 1 company of 60 Heavy Cavalry at the Citadel of the Eye of Law
• 1 company of 120 slingers at the Abbey of Igolb

The Elves of Arbelladon recruit 1 new unit of Elven Light Infantry in Arbelladon.

The Beastman Hordes receive a unit of Orc Bowmen at Fort Arbelving, sent by secret paths through the mountains by the Underlords below to wage war on the surface dwellers.

The Undead hordes raise a company of 120 zombies as a mysterious power seems to be building up in the Necropolis...