Blackbog Keep

[Mr_Praetorian]

"Very well. I can't imagine there are many who have faith nor favor invested in the Fensdwellers. Very well. What do you know of this encampment, and its leader?"

[Laharl]

"I can tell you nothing of the leader but that he is a master illusionist and incredibly paranoid, to the degree of using copies of himself and not telling even his own men his name. The lair itself is completely underground at the center of a small plateau built by dragon magic after the First Alliance War. There are three clans here, each guarding one entrance to the triangular complex. At the center, the draconic clan itself makes its home and there is a separate, larger main entrance directly there from the air. I do not know if the dragons themselves are still in residence or even alive. The next largest entrance is here, about 30 miles from the road, used for trading with Norinth. The entire area is covered by a massive illusion, as would only be expected from such a master of deception."

[Mr_Praetorian]

"Naturally. A few of us here know all to well how powerful his tricks were." Derovarr says with a a sigh.

"Hmm. Before I can commit our forces, we will need to as thoroughly scout the surrounding area as possible. Obviously because of his proclivity for illusions and obscurity, scrying will be of no avail here. "

"Flag-Captain Osweald. I believe your assistance will be required. Feeling up to the task?"

[Laharl]

"Flag-Captain, do you have a method of determining whether what you see is illusion or reality? If not, someone with that capability should be going instead."

[Mr_Praetorian]

(Note: This bit does not mean the discussion about the Orc Camp has been closed. We will be running both at the same time. Yes, it'll be messy, but I think we'll pull through just fine.)

The morning of the 26th was as bring and as clear as many had seen for the last few fortnights. Blackbog, given its location was both constantly humid and rainy, one of the less glorious aspects of live in a swamp. Yet, perhaps it was a blessing all itself that the rain had passed, and the sun was able to shine through for this most important, and, to some, holy days.

Not long after sunrise, and in accordance with ancient Pelorian rites, a congregation of officers, clerics, and warriors crammed into the relatively small church at Blackbog. Though the show of so many people was heartening, the amount of body heat and exhalation that ensued quickly made up for the humidity that was normally present. Nonetheless, all those within the tiny prayer-house were willing to endure.

Standing behind where the podium usually is at the head of the room were Guardian Marshal Rothwyn, Lady Gant, High Marshal Kovis, and High-Marshal Spekes to the right, and Cardinal Helge and Cardinal Kerpen to the left. The room was divided in no particular order, save for that the more religious attendees seemed to deviate towards the left, while the rest gathered on the right. All those present were dressed in their finest, ranging from priestly robes of the finest cloth, to officers tunics, right down armor so polished it was almost blinding. Not every present knew exactly why they were here, but they knew well enough to come prepared.

After is was decided that no more persons could be pushed into the Church without risking everyone's health. Guardian Marshal Derovarr stepped forward and looked at the chamber, giving forth the notion that he intended to speak. Given his position, the room quickly silenced.

"Comrades, soldiers, priests, and commanders. We are gathered here this day for a truly holy and vital occasion. The promotion of one of our finest and wisest members of the clergy, and one who has personally saved the life of many from the clutches of death in more than one heated conflict. He is man of truly rare quality, one such man that was able to set aside all that he knew, and realize that those who once commanded him did not have the best interests of anyone but themselves in mind. Cardinal Ulrich Helge is this man of great faith and conviction that I speak, and so, in this place of devotion and prayer, we shall honor him for his sacrifice and his loyalty.

But let it be known that we are not solely to honor this man, be that we also, by doing this, will be sending a message to those that would think our means are off-counter. Even now, our enemies, both local and abroad, seek to smear our reputation, to see us viewed not for the justice we fight for, but as traitors and warmongers who have turned their back on their people, and their church.

So, let it be known that while we may hold disagreement with those who hold power in Misalin, we are far from the Godsless brutes that our enemies would see us labeled as. While we may differ in opinion as to the exact nature of the Divine, we are no less devout in seeking to raise the banner of the Duchy, than our opponents. They may as think as they will, but one will have difficulty in finding one of us who hasn't knelt before an later of Pelor to ask for guidance, or, in the thick of combat, called upon Heironeous to grant them the power to strike down a foe.

Merely because we seek a different form of government does mean we wish to forsake our faith, which has defined our culture for millennia. Even in the days wherein we were united on Caerlon, we were still devout priests and holy warriors, and to forsake such a legacy of righteous causes is not our goal here.

But regardless of our true intent, we will still be persecuted and hated because we chose to stand for what is right, but, perhaps, when this conflict is decided, and we stand gloriously atop those who would seek to conquer and corrupt this world, perhaps then our names will be cleared.

Such times, therefore, call for men conviction, and he who we are here to honor, is one such man. In the days ahead, I believe Cardinal Helge will be an asset in both assisting us in matters of the clergy, and, well, keeping us all in one piece." Derovarr said, allowing a bit of humor to shrug off the seriousness of his last remarks.

"I would think it wrong to bestow upon this man a title such as 'High Priest', as it is clearly not my place to give one. But his role will be no less important. He will be as one in duties, for his devotion and courage have earned no less. So, shall he be our Divine Guardian ." Derovarr finished, beckonging Ulrich to come forward.

[Squall255]

Ulrich humbly steps forward. "Thank you Marshal Guardian. I'm deeply honored, and appreciate your wisdom and humility in knowing your bounds. You are truly the leader the Duchy needs now, and I shall aid you to the best of my ability. Pelor knows his power has stitched you up enough, and Hieroneous has used you to guide enough blades for our noble cause. For Misalin, and in honor of Pelor, I thank you for this which you are bestowing upon me."

[Mr_Praetorian]

"Cardinal Ulrich Helge, do you swear to uphold the ideals of the Grand Duchy? To act as divine counsel to both the political and military arms of this struggle? To lend your wisdom and spiritual conviction wholly to our campaign? To submit to the sovereignty of our reestablished nation? And, if necessary, to lay your life on the line for your people, your honor, and your state?"

[Squall255]

Putting on a solemn, but caring face that many of the gathered would recognize from how he delivered the sacraments surrounding worship in the church, Ulrich looked Derrovar straight in the eye and said "So have my actions been until now, and so shall they be in the future. Thus do I swear my mind and body to the Duchy, offering all that Pelor has sought to give me, for the good of it's people and the strength of it's leaders, until the Gods see me taken from this life."

[Mr_Praetorian]

"Then arise, Divine Guardian Helge, and look to your post. For you wisdom and strength will be greatly welcomed in the days ahead." Replied Derovarr, nodding his head, and stepping back so Ulrich to could have the spotlight for a bit.

[Squall255]

"I would thank you for the honor Guardian Marshal, and shall do my best to live up to the expectations. I would also like to thank you soldiers brave enough to think for yourselves, and make a tough decision to join with our just cause. It is easy to follow someone willing to lead. It is harder to consider where your leader is taking you, and decide for yourself. That is what I have done, and what you yourselves have done, heeding the will of Heironeous, and the gifts of Pelor. So thank you men and women of the Dutchy of Misalin, for giving me something to fight for, someone dear to protect. It is truly an honor simply to call you all who fight so hard and with such loyalty my companions." He pauses for a second and surveys the gathered crowd with a look of absolute love and fondness. Smiling he continued "Now don't think that this means I'm stopping any of my regular services. I'm still hosting evening services every other day, as well as Sunday worship. Also, if any of you is ever in need of a prayer, come find me. Now, as with every church gathering, it's time for food! Let us head out to the courtyard and celebrate in earnest, with meat and mead." As he finishes, he raises his arms wide, palms out, gesturing towards the door. Outside, tables were food and drink appeared as he said this.

[Zanaikin]

On the morning of the 27th, Derovarr receives a message from Marshal Daethelar Berothar of Airindale to come to an alliance meeting between Misalin, Airindale, and Naralan in order to discuss plans for the joint campaign against Norinth. This meeting had been planned a week beforehand and will be taking place in Corleuthil, Capital of Airindale, within accommodations that the elves shall provide.
( please select the officers you shall be bringing along, keep in mind the context and level of the meeting )

[Mr_Praetorian]

Derovarr returns the message, confirming his attendance, and to inform them that they will need to accommodate an addition 3 commanders of Misalin (Kati, Kovis, and Ulrich).

While they are in Airindale, Cary and Samael will be left in charge of operations at Blackbog, and Derovarr will soon have a mission for Kilar (we'll need to talk about this).

As to the matter of scouting the orc camp: Klaus and Teodor will cooperatively scout and infiltrate the encampment. Derovarr wants to know everything about them he can, from secret passwords to patrol timing.

[Mr_Praetorian]

Kilar's Mission

Delivered Via Secret Meeting On Board Airship Retribution during Air Maneuvers Drill 7 at 12:00PM on the 26th

Orders (Primary): To Infiltrate Misalin proper's High Military Command and the Government.

Goals:

1. Acquire data on current military operations: training of recruits, numbers, locations of bulk forces, movements.

2. Acquire information on any plans from Government involving the Wester Campaign, our allies, and Blackbog

Orders (Secondary): Gather general information on the current socio-political situation in Misalin.

Goals:

1. Report on the general stance of the people for both the Proclaimers, and our-selves

2. Locate all major individuals and organizations who do not believe Anstrun should be in charge.


(Note: Unless you have a device that lets you listen in on Command Ring conversations, you don't know this meeting happened).

[Zanaikin]

As the Misalin party teleported to the provided destination, the found themselves within the teleportation keep of Corleuthil. A square of Airindale honor guards had been waiting for them, whom then escorted the group towards the Gemstone Guard High Command Headquarters nearby. Even though Derovarr has never visited the elven capital before, it was obvious that the structures all around central city had been recently rebuilt, or at least undergone heavy repairs. The trees, despite their immense size, also look as if they were young plants grown within the past few months as opposed to decades, no doubt with the aid of magic. It was rumored that the Capital had fallen to Norinth forces and sacked during this invasion of Airindale. From the present view of the city, that rumor seems to be true.

The group went through the side entrance of a massive structure built into a particularly colossal tree, spanning at least several hundred meters in width and was the only one in the area which did not seem like it was newly grown. However, both the tree and the building itself was covered with wounds, scars, and burns on the ouside, obvious signs of the battle that was fought here.

Derovar and company was led inside, through its grand halls, which surprisingly did not suffer any battle damage, and into a tactical conference room, where the other attendees of the meeting have already been gathered. At the head of the oval table sat Airindale Arvitor and Crown Princess Aelisar Arinydeth, with Marshal Daethelar Berothar on one end and her three Lieutenants on the other, whom introduced themselves as Tharivol Siannodel, Baelonna Ruapytha, and Vandria Caewenan, the Flag-Captains of the remaining Airindale Gemstone Guard. The warforged representatives of Naralan - Marshal, Banner, and Cipher, sat at a different section of the table, next to two more half-elves - Marshal Ceriele Alerce and High-Captain Canon Kauri, officers of the Forces of Archeron Haven Province.

After some polite condolences offered for Lady Tiriel and the other brave officers the Misalin Guard had lost during the raid on Trias, Arvitor Aelisar started the meeting with a brief introduction and went straight onto business.

Aelisar: "...we're here today to discuss what is probably the largest military operation taken by the southern nations since the Dragon Alliance War. The forces we have managed to gathered today, while not as prepared as we would like them to be, are nevertheless formidable. With them, we finally have the opportunity to take the assault to Norinth and exact over a century of hatred. Nearly a century ago, we had missed out an opportunity to finish off Norinth after the conclusion of the First Great Alliance War due to the need to rebuild, and it had cost us, for millions more died during this war which could have been prevented. If history is to teach us anything, it is that we should not repeat the same mistake again. Norinth, and their new so-called Imperial masters, must be defeated, conquered, if lasting peace is to be brought back to Penthiae."

Aelisar: "And so, we return to the offensive plans at hand, the joint campaign north against Norinth and the Imperials. For the Western Campaign, we are devoting everything that Airindale can spare at the moment. The last remaining regiment of our prided Aerial Combat Mages of the Gemstone Guard, the full Airindale Air Fleet of twenty Assault Skiffs, and our full newly created army - forty full regiments of Battlemasters. The Havenites are also contributing another regiment of Combat Mages from their forces, while the Misalinians have agreed to bring forth their units as additional support. Restating my decision that was announced last week, I've determined, with approval, that the Western Campaign will be split into two separate commands. The Misalinians will take command of our Battle Line forces, including all of our Battlemaster units, and use the Misalinian's Sky Galleons as their forward command. Meanwhile the more mobile units, including our Skiff fleet and the two mage regiments, will be under the command of myself, Marshal Berothar, and Marshal Alerce."

Aelisar: "Regarding the Battlemasters, as you all no doubt have questions, particularly the Misalinians who shall be commanding them. The simplest manner of explaining their existence is that - they are a manifestation of our Kingdom's desire for vengeance against Norinth. And not merely officers like us or the soldiers of our military, but also our people, the poor souls of those butchered by the undead of Norinth and are unable to move on without being pacified, and our land itself, which was ravished and despoiled by Norinth's foul magic. The Battlemasters are a living manifestation of rage, the rage of land and people. They seek only to kill and destroy everything in their path in an attempt to satiate their anger. Their very existence emanates a powerful magical aura which drives people to insanity when within close proximity without adequate protection. They are chaotic and evil by nature, and if we unleashed them upon the world without thought they can cause all kinds of havoc and destruction. Do not think we are any happier to seek the aid of such creatures than you are, but the restless souls of our people demanded it, and ruined forests of our nation demanded it, and we simply had no other way to bring justice to light. So we had only one choice, to bring forth these beings, to control them, and to unleash their anger, alongside ours, upon those enemies foolish enough to provoke such wrath in the first place."

( if you have questions / comments, now would be a good time to ask ).

[Mr_Praetorian]

Upon hearing the description of the battlemasters, Derovarr looked outright shocked, a feeling which quickly passed into frustration.

"Tell me, Lady Arvitor. What am I supposed to say to my commanders when I bring them this news? Shall I tell them to forsake all for which that they have fought and died for the sake of your vengeance? Will I tell them to cast their honor and stain their souls with blood and rage? Am I, personally, as Paladin of law and good, to put aside all that I know to be true and beckon the aid of chaos and evil in manifest?!

You berate Norinthners for raising the dead, and yet you have given pain and suffering legs to walk with, and weapons to bear!"