A raucous crowd swarmed the Dragon's Gate, drawn by the irresistible allure of a clash between Broar and Erik. The indomitable Afur stood staunchly by Erik's side, poised to lend support as his trusted second. Broar arrived astride his majestic steed, late, casting furtive glances around in a futile attempt to prolong the onset of the climactic duel. His voice boomed through the air, a symphony of blustering bravado, as he shamelessly bellowed for the Deputy of Public Harmony to make an appearance: "We're here now!" ... "This is me and ERIK!" .... "Look how ERIK is waving his sword around" and so on. Yet, as the Deputy's absence became painfully evident, Broar's desperate hopes of Erik's arrest shattered. In a sudden burst of fabricated awe, Broar cried out in mock astonishment, "Gosh, is that a dragon behind you Erik?" Seizing the opportune distraction, as Erik turned to behold the mythical beast, Broar seized the reins and spurred his steed into a swift gallop, vanishing into the distance. The echoes of Erik's thunderous denouncement reverberated through the air, a resounding condemnation of Broar's gutless cowardice that could not be silenced.
((The votes indicated Erik had cause.))
Broar gallopped away, his steed carrying him to the doorstep of the moneylenders, where he shamelessly sought his third loan, an audacious act that mirrored his insatiable appetite for indebtedness. Rufus, a recently arrived second child from a destitute chieftain of the Kheldon tribe, also succumbed to the lure of borrowing, entangling himself in the clutches of monetary obligations.
Meanwhile, Erik ventured into the sacred confines of the revered temple of Ernalda, surrendering himself to the solemn rituals that marked his departure from the cult. The echoes of ancient chants and sacred incantations resounded through the hallowed halls as he severed his ties, bidding farewell to a chapter of his spiritual journey.
Jarrek seized the opportunity to elevate his status within Goldgotti's Company, acquiring the distinguished rank of Ten-Thane, along with a magnificent steed that mirrored his aspirations. Serendipity danced upon the horse market's stage, for it was there that Broar, driven by a mysterious impulse, joined the ranks of horse owners, acquiring his own mount, leaving all baffled by the hidden motives that propelled his acquisition.
A spirited pursuit unfolded as Afur, Broar, Erik, Erinestra, Jarrek, Lavi, and Quatlu fervently sought a coveted position as an aide to a noble. Their desires burned bright, but only Jarrek emerged victorious, bestowed with the role as aide to the Chieftess Merdnina, the revered leader of the Black Rock clan within the Kheldon tribe.
Ever resilient, Afur yearned for greater spiritual heights and applied to become a God-Talker of Ernalda, yet fate cast a different lot, granting the coveted position to another deserving soul, leaving Afur to navigate the paths of divine enlightenment through a different avenue.
Conspicuous consumption became the anthem of Afur, Broar, Dararda, Erik, Jarrek, and Lavi, as they reveled in the opulent indulgences that adorned their lives, relishing in the luxuries that whispered promises of grandeur.
Erinestra found solace and familiarity within the walls of Geo's, making it her cherished haven, a place where her presence and whims were acknowledged and embraced. Lavi and Rufus sought refuge within the vibrant embrace of The Red Beaver, establishing themselves as beloved regulars.
Lt Warlord Duresata of the renowned Snakepipe Dancers granted Dararda a reprieve, offering an excuse for one week of respite from regimental duties, allowing Dararda to briefly escape the rigors of military life.
Week 1
Broar ventured into the embrace of the cult of Chalana Arroy as a lay member. Grumbold and Rufus, each fueled by the fires of spiritual yearning, found solace and purpose within the revered cult of Orlanth, joining its ranks as lay members, embracing the winds of change that stirred their souls. Lavi, ever drawn to the pursuit of wisdom and knowledge, embarked upon a journey into the realm of Lhankor Mhy, pledging allegiance as a lay member, navigating the labyrinthine corridors of esoteric lore.
Dararda, a soul ablaze with romantic desires, embarked upon a passionate courtship with Rastik, driven by an intense longing. Alas, fate dealt a cruel hand, as Rastik spurned the advances, leaving Dararda to nurse a wounded heart. In a contrasting tale, Quatlu's fortunes took a brighter turn, armed with the cleansing power of a rejuvenating bath and adorned in a pristine Ten-Thane uniform. To entice the heart of Harmeleenrios, Quatlu presented a grand gesture, a bouquet of fragrant flowers sourced from the distant Tres region, their delicate aroma creating an air of seduction. He tantalized her palate with delectable sweet meats hailing from her very own province, Tres, skillfully arousing her appetite. Orchestrating an enchanting serenade, Quatlu enlisted the talents of a local bard from Fantarn's Inn, who plucked the strings of his lute, weaving a symphony of love songs from various genres, capturing the essence of their budding romance. With a smile that sparkled like starlight, Quatlu employed his finest manners and etiquette, tenderly persuading Harmeleenrios of his genuine sincerity, securing her heart as a prized treasure.
Jarrek sought solace within the sacred confines of the temple of Uleria, surrendering himself to the divine essence of passion and love, forging a spiritual connection that transcended the boundaries of mortal existence.
Afur participated in a sacred ceremony held within the temple of Ernalda, immersing himself in the ancient rituals that celebrated the bounty and fertility bestowed by the earth. Erinestra, accompanied by Eslanla, sought solace within the halls of the temple of Issaries, embracing the harmonious energies of commerce and trade that permeated the sacred space. Erik brought Gnarg to the ceremony held within the temple of Orlanth, artfully toadying to the esteemed High Priest, paying homage to the exalted deity.
Week 2
Rufus, fueled by an insatiable thirst for glory and camaraderie, embarked to find a regiment that would embrace him. In a twist of fate that seemed divinely ordained, his very first choice, Mularik's Company, eagerly extended a welcoming hand. Determined to seize every opportunity, Rufus spared no expense, acquiring the highest vacant rank available, that of the Ten-Thane, along with a steed whose presence echoed his aspirations.
Dararda devoted countless hours to honing her prowess with the spear. Within the confines of the Snakepipe Dancers' barracks, her movements became a mesmerizing dance of discipline and finesse, each strike a testament to their relentless pursuit of martial mastery.
Broar orchestrated a grand extravaganza within the walls of the renowned Scribbled Scroll. The festivities unfolded with unbridled merriment, as Broar's generosity knew no bounds. A maestro of hospitality, he gallantly assumed the burden of funding the joyous carousing of all guests, ensuring that no ounce of revelry remained untapped. Among the vibrant attendees, Erinestra graced the celebration with the enchanting presence of Eslanla, while the lively spirits of Grumbold, Jarrek, and Lavi added their own unique flair to the festivities. In a gesture of heartfelt appreciation, Broar presented each of the four esteemed guests with a meticulously crafted statuette of Chalana Arroy, a treasured artifact whose worth, both in craftsmanship and sentiment, amounted to a substantial 25 lunars.
Afur once again found solace within the chambers of the temple of Ernalda, immersing himself in the sacred rituals that celebrated the bountiful blessings bestowed by the earth. Quatlu, his heart aflame with reverence for the divine Orlanth, followed suit, joining a ceremony held within the temple, artfully toadying to the esteemed High Priest. Quatlu fervently prayed for Orlanth's divine favor to bestow success upon Lay member Wonderful, who valiantly stood at the forefront of the battle at the front.
Erik, driven by an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and mastery, took a courageous step forward, enrolling in a rigorous course offered by the illustrious Military Academy. Within the halls of this esteemed institution, he delved into the intricacies of warfare, honing his skills and broadening his understanding, laying the foundations for a future marked by martial excellence.
Week 3
Jarrek immersed himself in the relentless practice of the battle axe, each swing and strike a dance of raw power and precision. Within the confines of Goldgotti's barracks, the air reverberated with the resounding clash of metal upon metal, as Jarrek's skill with the weapon grew ever more formidable.
Quatlu embarked on a path of training, dedicating themselves to the art of the broadsword. In the embrace of the Colymar stables, his movements became a symphony of calculated strikes and fluid maneuvers, each stroke whispering tales of impending victory and unyielding resolve.
Dararda had eagerly extended invitations for a grand celebration within the confines of The Red Beaver. However, destiny proved capricious, as the night unfolded without the anticipated arrival of guests. The echoes of anticipation were met with silence, leaving Dararda to grapple with the bitter sting of disappointment, her efforts unappreciated.
Afur, Broar, and Lavi instead ventured into the sacred sanctum of the temple of Uleria. There, they sought solace and intimate companionship, surrendering themselves to the tender embrace of love and pleasure, their desires kindled within the sacred space.
Erinestra diligently attended to the bustling demands of her shop. With unwavering dedication and keen acumen, she navigated the intricate tapestry of trade, ensuring that her establishment thrived amidst the vibrant ebb and flow of customers and transactions.
Grumbold graced the ceremony held within the temple of Orlanth. With utmost reverence and humility, he toadied to the High Priest, paying homage to the divine presence that are the winds. His voice joined the chorus of prayers and incantations, seeking favor and blessings from the exalted deity.
Erik embraced a second week of enlightenment within the halls of the Military Academy.
Week 4
Dararda forged an unbreakable bond with the cult of the Storm Bull, pledging her allegiance to Urox, the raging deity.
Afur orchestrated a grand celebration within the embrace of The Crazy Horse. With boundless generosity, he assumed the weighty burden of funding the extravagant carousing of all guests, ensuring that no glass remained empty and no heart yearned for mirth. Erik, accompanied by Gnarg, lent his presence to the festivities, as did Erinestra, alongside Eslanla. Among the attendees, the lively spirits of Grumbold, Jarrek, and Lavi contributed their own unique flare, igniting the night with laughter and camaraderie.
Rufus devoted the week to the temple of Uleria. He sought solace and intimate companionship, surrendering himself to the alluring embrace of love's tender caress. However, the intoxicating journey led him further into the realm of erotic exploration, plunging him into the depths of erotocomatose lucidity, where desires and dreams intertwined in a whirlwind of ecstatic bliss.
Quatlu dedicated a second week to the relentless pursuit of mastery over the broadsword.
Broar went to the library of Lhankor Mhy. Within the confines of the grand repository of wisdom, he immersed himself in a mesmerizing ceremony. As ancient tomes whispered their secrets, Broar became a vessel of wisdom, absorbing the profound insights that flowed through the sacred halls, forever enriched by the treasures of enlightenment.
At the Front
The Warking, Gananvar Tolaison, appointed the promoted 1st Division Commander Derdin Minarson new Field Army Commander. General Derdin appoints the Warlord of the Guildsmen, Heortast Derdonson, his Army Adjutant.
The Adjutant-General, Hofdang Jarstastson, appointed Lt General Dangiling Kankalalsteson new 1st Division Commander, who in turn appointed the Lt Warlord of the Wolf Runners, Garok Galnythson, his Division Adjutant.
The Inspector-General of Infantry, Lt General Morlyrta Eshisdaughter, appointed
- Warchief Vadastian Siltipingson 1st Foot Brigadier.
- Warchief Senla Lentsdaughter 3rd Foot Brigadier.
- Warchief Dova Heortothsdaughter 4th Foot Brigadier.
The new 3rd Foot Brigadier appointed Hundred-Thane Silsar Rastsarson of the Thieves’ Arm her Brigade-Thane.
Warlord Daralana Broorarsdaughter of the Candle Dancers appointed Ten-Thane Terorarm Henvathson her Regimental Adjutant.
Warlord Heortast Derdonson of the Guildsmen had no Ten-Thane to appoint as Regimental Adjutant and left the post vacant.
The Field Army
King Argrath addressed the Thieves’ Arm regiment, announcing his decision to take command of the campaign. This bolstered morale and inspired bravery in the regiment.
The King laid forth his plans and proved he is a master strategist. Field Army Commander General Derdin executed the strategy excellently.
1ST DIVISION
1st Division Commander Lt General Dangiling made no mistakes, but also nothing noteworthy.
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1st Foot Brigade
1st Foot Brigadier Warchief Vadastian did a great job during the field operations. He’s clearly destined for a great career.
Candle Dancers
Like most regiments, the Candle Dancer’s were short on officers. Subaltern Elisia had to step up and take command of Company A. Warlord Daralana led the regiment to an inconclusive result. Both she and her Lt Warlord were killed during the skirmishes. Subaltern Elisia proved herself and was promoted to Ten-Thane.
Free Philosophers
The Philosophers crushed everything that came in their way.
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3rd Foot Brigade
The general results of the 3rd Foot Brigade were inconclusive.
Wolf Runners
Ten-Thane Wonderful stepped up to command Battalion 2. The regimental results were inconclusive. Casualties were low, but included Ten-Thane Wonderful, despite the prayers of Quatlu.
Thieves’ Arm
The field operations were inconclusive.
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4th Foot Brigade
The general results of the 4th Foot Brigade defence were inconclusive. Lunar units managed to strike at rear positions, but made no major advances.
Guildsmen
The Guildsmen did what they were supposed to, but nothing more.
Bush Rangers
Hundred-Thane Ondureen was made acting Lt Warlord for the defence operations. The regiment did an excellent job, scattering the enemy. Sadly the acting regimental commander was killed in action.
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FRONTIER DIVISION
The Frontier Division held their ground, breaking any attempts by the Lunars to advance.
Tribal Levies
The Colymar contribution was inconclusive, as was the Lismelder.
Aftermath
The summer campaign is over, and the Field Army returns to Boldhome. Slavewall has been liberated, and the surrounding areas cleansed of Lunar presence. Although losses were heavy, the campaign is declared a victory.
Warrior Lemmina and Ten-Thane Malvolio remain in Lunar captivity.