Page 6 of 8

Posted: Tue Nov 16, 2004 2:25 am
by General kala
Fast Dispatch to Lord General Antelioch Makshoui
Ruined Falls, via Wrath Gate

I have received word of your predicament. Reccomend seeking out Fethrer Zhar in Naggarond. He is a grey-haired Druchii who walk with a limp and can be found at the Bitter Blade Inn. He is a former House Velari Master of Assassins and can be trusted. If the poison can't be identfied by him, it can't be identified. Payment will be arranged.

Have your sister send a detailed report on the traitor element at her earliest convenience. I wish to compare notes.

Also, please be advised that I am still in the Southern Reaches. Regrets that we cannot meet in person just yet.

General Kala Kodai Velari

Posted: Tue Nov 16, 2004 5:22 pm
by Carron
*a message arrives in camp tied to the foot of a trained raven*

To General Kala hail,

As orderd we followed the Asur tracks deep into the heart of the Forest. Here however we found nothing to support my earlier suspicions and so we began to retrace our steeps. It was on the 5th day of our returning journey that we stumbeled across our acursed cousins. They had made camp and were obviously awaiting someone but not us. In the ensuing fight we lost two of our number and killed all eight of them.

It was at this time that I had an idea. I ordered my shades to clear away all signs of the fight and the camp as well, so that the clearing would appear undisturbed. We then hid in the undergrowth and waited. The following dawn rewarded our patince with the arrival of further Asur.

These had been clearly sent to collect the Asur we had killed the previous day as they were not laden down with provisions. For a while they argued amongst themseles wether to search for their companions or to stay and await their arrival. Finally their leader decided to wait for them and so they spend a long and hungry night for them. Next day, as there was still no sign of the, unknown to them, dead Asur their leader decided that they should return to camp and come back to this spot in two days.

As they left we followed them steathily. THe Asur travelled swift and with purose, knowing exactly where they wished to go. This indicated to me that they had done this mission before and made me uneasy. Finally after a night and a day without rest, the now exhausted Asur arrivied at their camp.

The sight of this camp made me gasp. My earlier estimation of Asur numbers in this area was around 500 maybe 750. Yet this camp held at least 2000 Asur. After overcoming my surprise I ordered my shades to explore the area, cautiously. Together we came up with the following facts:
i) There are between 2500-3000 Asur in the Camp,
ii) They have room for at least another 2000 Asur,
iii) They have enough provisions to last a month,
iv) They have plenty of tools and are making permanent shelters and workshops,
v) There are confimed sightings of 2 Mages and none of Cavalry.

After we had established these facts I began writing my report to you, while sending my fastes runner to go and fetch the rest of my patrol. The things that worry me most are firstly the number of Asur that have seemingly slipped past our lines unseen and secondly the workings that are going on here. Are they building a new settelment or a supply base for some, to us, unknown enterprise? I hope that you General are in possesion of more puzzel pieces that will let you make sense of this Asur trickery.

I shall await your further instructions before taking action, until I shall do as you say and observe the Asur from the shadows.

Your most loyal and humble servant
Bloodshade Qual'en

Posted: Tue Nov 16, 2004 9:26 pm
by Sexy druchii
*darkrider comes carrying this note, along with a head, apparantly a shades*
To:

Lady Kala:

Hello. I have succeeded my fathers position as Lord General of this army. He left to Naggarond an hour ago, my spies tell me. I have had spies in Wrath Gate, and all the passes, so that I can establish which generals are faithful to our cause. I believe that Lord Thranduil is a traitor, as is Lady Xaniphera. 9 of my Dark Riders chased down a group of who we thought to be enemies, yet they were Lord Thranduil's troops. We killed all but one, and interrogate him until it was time to preform a ritual flaying. He told us the location of Lady Xaniphera in the Soth, so typically, that who I would assume be leading this traitorous army. My father wrote already that he killed the traitors in our army, and once he left now, I took all of them and flayed their skins to deter the Asur. Lord Thranduil might not be a traitor, plainly that shade group might have revolted, but I doubt it. Please tell me how this gets rooted out.

Lady Kara Makshoui, Ruined Falls

Posted: Tue Nov 16, 2004 10:32 pm
by Lord karelon
16 November (Saur)
Citadel of Forlorn Hope
Southwestern March

Hail Lord Kala!

The word I have received from my son is that your forces have secured the Wrath Gate and all approaches to it. This is most reassuring, especially at this time.

In the past ten-days three noteworthy battles have taken place in the March and all bear the marks of Slaanesh. On the 6th of Nov, Governor Lord Mon Grarkon of Lekain, the Territorial Governor of the Plain of Dogs, received word that the Doombull Gudeoor was leading an army of some 6,000 beastmen out of the Kraken Forest and into the Plain of Dogs. Governor Mon marshaled six battalions of his Territorial Army and rushed to meet the doombull. The battle was a credit to the valor and courage of Druchii warriors. Gov. Mon won a solid victory, but the price was very high. He lost 760 dead and 1,520 missing, out of 6,000 warriors but he drove the beasts back into the forest.

I hold in my hand dispatches that tell of insurrection in the Northern Broken Lands Territory. Hendath Droris, my faithful servant, hearing rumors of sedition taking place in the Northern Broken Lands set out to investigate. He learned that Mornek Rerelon, High Sorceress of Slaanesh entered the territory by sea from the north. Once here she began to organize followers of the Dark Prince. She has obtained a considerable following in the month since she arrived, including the Colonel and Captains of three territorial battalions. She has also organized at least five battalions worth of militia to her cause. This set the stage for the first two battles of the insurrection.

Before the insurrection broke out in open war, Hendath Droris managed a coup of his own that must have hurt Mornek Rerelon’s plans badly. Hendath discovered that Asunek, Mornek Rerelon’s pet assassin, (Hendath says that if he should ever get his hands on Asunek, the Temple of Khaine will be most pleases with him.) had subverted Lord Kruernig Mokith of House Mon to the cause of Slaanesh. House Mon is the Second Great House in the Northern Broken Lands. (The Governor’s own House Makurl is the First.) Kruernig was prepared to take his two house battalions and in fawned loyalty to Gov Surl, join his troops to the governor’s and in the midst of battle turn on him. This would have created a disaster, considering how close the actual battle went. Instead, Hendath, ever the resourceful and loyal servant, took the writ I had given him and went to Governor Lord Lorn Turak of Morathor the Southern Broken Lands Territorial Governor and obtained from him the use of the 22nd Southern Broken Lands Assault Battalion. Positioning the battalion to seize the two House Mon battalions while they were in their barracks, Hendath then went and obtained the necessary evidence he needed from Lord Kruernig. After putting Kuernig out of his misery he ordered the lockdown of the House Mon battalions and the arrest of all of the Kruernig’s family and retainers. He is currently interrogating all of the House Mon servants for further information. The family, servants and warriors are to be purged. All who will not swear on the Witch King’s name their loyalty to the king and his duly appointed governors and Lords will be feed to the cold ones in the House Mon coliseum. All Temple of Khaine followers are to be invited to attend the feeding.

On the 12th, Colonel Raldor Tuerl Arion, formerly of the Northern Broken Lands Territorial Army and three battalions of territorial troops raised the standard of Slaanesh and marched on the Governor’s Citadel, Tuerios Margoth. No doubt they expected to simply walk in and take control of the citadel. This was not to be. Colonel Kalris Ral, somehow got word of what Col. Raldor was doing (I would not be surprised if Hendath had something to do with this) and roused his three battalions to rush to the Citadel. Col. Kalris got their first. The loyalist then offered the rebels the choice of battle or of retreat. The rebels, still Druchii at heart took battle. Col. Kalris challenged Col Raldor to single battle, as did both of his loyal majors the captains that followed Col Raldor. The duels were inconclusive, except that Major Marl Turkhan did wound Captain Hekathi badly enough that he had to be carried from the battle field. That was probably the high light of the battle.

Battle immediately commenced and was a strait forward bloody affair. You can well imagine three battalions facing three other battalions each with the same organization and training. Each motivated by what they thought was the right. I have no idea how much Col. Raldor told his warriors, but I doubt it was the full truth of their insurrection. The battle ended with coming darkness. It had been a draw. Each side losing roughly the same number of men, the rebels lost 1,320 killed and missing, the loyalists, 1,110 killed and missing. Roughly one-third of both sides were casualties. Col Raldor withdrew from the field and returned to his garrison. Col Kalris took his forces into the citadel. Where he now awaits replacements and reinforcements before seeking out the rebels once more.

The last battle took place the following day, the 13th. Three of the Slaanesh militia battalions attempted to seize the Governor’s Estate, Herien Rarvok. Gov. Surl was waiting for them. He had only two battalions, but they were Guard battalions, the Governor’s Guard Battalion and his own Makurl House Guard Battalion.

The leader of the Slaanesh militia was one Major Shellus Surathi, formerly of the Plain of Dogs Territorial Army. He had retired and taken his retirement bonus in lands in the Northern Broken Lands. How he came to serve Slaanesh is unknown to me, but he did and in open treason as well. He had with him three militia battalions, trained and organized as territorial frontier battalions are and probably just as good too.

Gov. Surl sought to take the battle to the rebels first, seeing that their numbers were less then expected he sought battle in the hope of destroying enough of them that when the remained arrived it would be pointless. Major Shellus had split off one of his battalions and sent them around the field to flank the loyalists. Gov. Surl gave challenge in the hope that he would face Major Shellus, but he had positioned himself on his left flank while Major Shellus was on the other. So the Governor faced a Captain Grakith. The fight was vicious and short; Grakith never saw the outcome of the battle as he died before it even got started. If only all of the rebels were as easily dealt with! Major Shellus fought with Major Kaingoth Morl of the Makurl House Guard Battalion and gave him a grievous wound. The battle then commenced.

It was not a good day for the guards. A militia battalion managed to fight the Gov.’s Guard to a draw! The Makurl House Guard Battalion probably in an effort to avenge them of the insult done in the wounding of their major savaged the militia battalion they faced, but then had to contend with the flanking militia battalion. In the end the battle was a draw. Both sides suffered 1,110 to 1,300 killed and missing. Again roughly one-third of each side were casualties. If any of the gods were pleased by these battles it is not one either side gave allegiance to! Major Shellus withdrew from the field while the Governor withdrew into his estates.

Thus it now stands. We still have goblins to contented with in the Copper Hills and now we have Beastmen preparing to leave the Kraken Forest under the colors of the Chaos gods, particularly Slaanesh! Open insurrection has broken out in the Northern Broken Lands, with both sides calling for aid from their neighbors and allies. I am preparing battalions to be sent from the Citadel, the Black Cities and the Southern Broken Lands to aid all three fronts. You may see battalions from the Tyrant Peaks going to the Maibd Pass for use against the Asur, I am not sure if they can be spared yet or if I will need them for the Kraken Forest.

Glory to the Witch King!
Kala, may your sword ever be renewed in the blood of your enemies!

Lord Saur Lengoth of Melphular
Warder Lord of the Southwestern March
Loyalty to the Druchii and the Rightful King Malekith

Posted: Thu Nov 18, 2004 12:26 am
by Sexy druchii
*a trained pidgeon comes with this message*

To: BloodShade Qual'en

Shade, one of my Dark Pegasi intercepted your report. Are you in need of aid? If you would need an army called upon to crush them, my 5000 Druchii are marching from Ghrond already to assault Arnhiem. I could tell them to make a detour, but it will be at Kala's expense. Respond to this message at Kala's gate, and with due speed, for the Asur should not be givin a foothold into our territory.

Kara Makshoui, Commander of Dictator Pass, Ruined Falls

Posted: Thu Nov 18, 2004 1:14 am
by General kala
17 Nov.

Word has arrived from the north that the Khainite and Slaaneshi troops are at each other’s throats again. I am away for a matter of days and already they can’t seem to focus on the real enemy. How does the worship of the gods do such things to a rational mind? They become blind and mindless pawns, unworthy to be called Druchii. Before the altar of the gods the very masters of this world become as slaves who wish to be relieved from thought and responsibility.

We march north, both divisions as one. I will bring the full force of the Black Lotus to bear at the southern front of the 6th Gate. Perhaps the sight of an allied Khaine/Slaanesh force fighting the hated cousins will bring the more self-aware of my brethren back into alignment.

K

Posted: Thu Nov 18, 2004 1:14 am
by General kala
Special Dispatch to All Commanders, Sub–Commanders and Officers in the Arnheim and Blackspines Combat Theatres

Word has reached me in the south that there is conflict between Druchii of the different sects while the Asur maintain a strong presence within strike distance. One faction now fights as two against an overwhelming foe that would extinguish both.

This is in direct conflict with my express orders. It jeopardizes our position in the Blackspines and weakens our resolve.

Once again, I reiterate. Both factions are to be tolerated within this combat zone. Extremists of both sects have no place within the forces stationed here. If you long for the blood of your fellow Druchii more than the Asur, then you are relived of your duties. Go kill and die in Ghrond.

Those who spill blood here do so to help forever cleanse the soil of Naggaroth of our hated cousins. Those who spill blood here to further the earthly goals of the Cult or the Temple will only make the ground slick for those of us who still see the true enemy before us.

In accordance with this and to display my sentiments on the subject, I am offering a reward of 50,000 gold Malekars for any irrefutable evidence on which officer ordered the ambush of a Slaaneshi advance scouting party approaching the 6th Gate site approximately three days ago. May I remind you that this is enough gold to elevate the family name of even a Shade clan to that of a House Minor.

A Black Lotus force 20,000 strong marches north to the southern front of the 6th Gate as we speak. It will be a combined Khainite and Slaaneshi force that will meet the enemy. Thus shall you see the true might of the Druchii when united in purpose.


General Kala Kodai of House Velari
Commander, Black Lotus Brigade

Posted: Thu Nov 18, 2004 4:36 am
by Sexy druchii
*Kai'n Makshoui, Assassin, arrives with this right behind Kala, catching her unawares, and slams a parcel into her lap. In it is an Asur head, specifically the enemy commander's that was attacking Dictator Pass*

General Kala!

The one who ordered the attack was Lord Karelon. His messages to me were all about revolt against the Slaaneshi Cultists, yet not against the Asur. I have returned from Naggarond, and your Grey-Bearded assassin even gave me a permanent boost of strength. My forces were also weakened by my stupid daughter. She did nothing but parley with the Asur, so she is crucified on my personal banner standard now. Ruined Falls is one day away from arriving. Let us join another 5000 Druchii to your 20,000. I also have requested the assistance of some Cultists, bringing along 5000 Cult Humans and 2500 Druchii. we would be honoured to fight alongside with you, and I would die fighting Asur. Slaaneshi Cultists are to be tolerated at the moment, so are the Temple Fanatics. They are a nuisance to our battlefield, but they are an effective shield. My daughter did something good while in command, and rooted out 500 traitors from my midst. These traitors were Khainists and Slaaneshi, but both were annihilated. They also were the only reason that head is on your lap. That is Kallerion Sentellion, the Asur commander fighting in Dictator Pass. Please, let me join forces, and willing be, die in the name of the Druchii!

RETURNED LORD GENERAL ANTELIOCH MAKSHOUI, RUINED FALLS

Posted: Thu Nov 18, 2004 3:18 pm
by Lord karelon
18 November
Fort Maibd Pass
Maibd Pass, Wrath Gate


Lord General Kala

We have completed the initial fortified line across the Maibd Pass. Wooden watchtowers and a palisade wall with a fortified gate have been completed. The all weather road to the gate has also been competed.

My father has sent word that the first three garrison battalions have completed basic training and are on their way here for advanced training and garrison duties. Colonel Lady Helynirthe is eager to begin their advanced training. She says that it has been too many years since she had new troops to train. She has selected her 3rd Jhunlelessra City Guard Battalion to train them with. City guard battalions are very well trained in the use of fortifications. Once trained in the proper use of fortifications, they should provide very good security for the Pass. That will allow the use of the other battalions for offensive operations against the Asur 6th Gate. The three new battalions will be here by the 29th.

The City guard battalions have fully recovered from their battle, so we now have seven full battalions battle ready. I am sending out the 2nd Melphular Frontier Battalion under Major Tuern Graroth to probe the Asur defenses.

Colonel Saurl has been pushing his patrols to find how the Bretonnians got out of the Pass. He has finally found their hole in the wall. There is a crack in the cliff wall, no more then wide enough to allow a single horse to pass through it that leads out of the Pass to the north. Col. Saurl’s Shades have followed the hidden way far enough to be certain it leads out of the Pass entirely. The entrance was well hidden by brush and small trees. The ground leading to it had been carefully reworked to hide the passing of so many men and horses. We still do not know how they found it in the first place, but we can be sure we will meet the Bretonnians again in battle. Shades are now posted at several places along this hidden way to watch and report any movement through it. The hidden passage is in front of the fortified line so they will not be coming in behind the walls.

Reports have been coming in that fighting has broken out between Cult and Temple followers in the forces facing the 6th Gate. Be assured I have repeated your orders to enforce religious neutrality in the Pass. The Cult and the Temple have been granted permission to conduct their own religious rites, but I have taken the precaution to place City Guard troops as security, as they are followers of neither sect. Colonel Lady Helynirthe has assured me that her troops will not hesitate to put down any conflict between the Cult and the Temple.

When news arrived from the March that Cult forces had come out in open insurrection in the Northern Broken Lands Territory, the followers of the Temple began agitating for suppression of the Cult followers in the Pass. Colonel Saurl (who is one of my Father’s commanders) acted quickly to obtain additional troops from Col. Helynirthe to discourage the Temple followers from taking any unauthorized actions. I have meet personally with the lay leaders of both sects to remind them of my father’s and your orders regarding the factional fighting. I told them I would have a coliseum built just for them if needed. But I would rather they fought Asur and Bretonnians then each other. At least then their deaths would benefit the Druchii.

At present, nothing more then a couple of fistfights have occurred, but I preparing the battalions to be sent against the 6th Gate as soon as possible. If they are fighting the Asur, they won’t be fighting each other.

Death to the Asur! Glory to the Witch King!

Colonel Karelon Lengoth of Melphular
Fort Maibd, Maibd Pass, Wrath Gate

Posted: Fri Nov 19, 2004 1:30 am
by Sexy druchii
Kala! What have you to say ofour progress today? I awoke with a sense of hate towards ALL other races, so I killed Guither Dragken, my mercenary pikemen's capitan. Then slaughtered the rest, retrieving my precious gold. When do we attack the Asur? I am fed up of waiting.
What are you going to do with Korelon the traitor? I would skewer him on a stake personally, but then I would face an army of Druchii, and that would sow discord among our ranks, so not yet. Please tell me when we get to fight. I would REALLY apprieciate it!

LORD ANTELIOCH MAKSHOUI, RUINED FALLS

Posted: Fri Nov 19, 2004 2:47 am
by General kala
A scroll arrives by discreet messenger to all top ranking commanders in the Wrath Gate/Arnheim theatre EXCEPT Lord General Maksoui.

Greetings and Salutations Loyal Druchii,

Approximately a week ago Lord General Antelioch Maksoui and his forces from Ruined Falls arrived at Dictator Pass. At the time, I was departing to handle the situation with Sorceress Xaniphera. I had no time to evaluate the new General and trusted that hatred of our cousins would keep him in line. I offered up the sanctuary and control of the pass to him and his forces.

After a week of radical correspondence with this Lord General, I can only reach one inescapable conclusion – he and his entire house are stark raving mad. Murder and intrigue is a way of life within Naggaroth as you all know. However his habit of constantly purging unnecessarily large numbers of his own troops and wild accusations against proven allied Generals is the pattern of an irrational mind. His erratic behavior and unpredictable and wildly variable success in the field underscore this conclusion.

All who have served under me know that I do not tolerate uncontrolled elements within my command. This must be addressed. I have devised a plan to capitalize on the situation, but a flawless and unified façade must be maintained by all commanders who might meet or correspond with this General.

The first phase of the plan involves the sealing of the Dictator Pass from the Wrath Gate fortifications. There must be a solid wall waiting for any future approach by the Ruined Falls troops. Concoct a story about security breaches from Asur forces. Rescue attempts involving Prince Regulus should do.

In the second phase, food and supplies for three months will be prepared and left for the Ruined Falls troops. Leave the wagons outside the fortifications before sealing them. All the food and drink should be from good stock and extremely palatable. Have Hag Maregh lace all the food and drink with a subtle distillation of Witchbrew. This will slowly drive all those who eat the food and drink the beverages maniacally insane.

In the third phase, I am going to send orders to Lord General Maksoui to collect the supplies and march out to meet the Asur on the Arnheim plains. By the time they reach the 6th Gate, the entire force should be foaming at the mouth and eager for blood. We will then let the Asur make their acquaintance the madman and his army of madmen.

However, there must be NO WORD of this breathed to anyone. I only write you to warn you of the mayhem that awaits you should your forces encounter the Ruined Falls force. The mouth of Dictator Pass comes out to the northeast of the 6th Gate. It should be simple to avoid from the Maibd Pass in the west. The point of Tair Og may be slightly more hazardous. But I do not forsee any difficulty if the army of Ruined Falls heads straight into the maw of the enemy as ordered.

Absolute secrecy is required. This message must be burned after it has been read.

May your blade stay wet,
General Kala Kodai Velari
Commander, Black Lotus Brigade

Posted: Fri Nov 19, 2004 2:47 am
by General kala
To Lord General Antelioch Maksoui
Ruined Falls

Greetings and Salutations Lord General

I am relieved to hear that your poisoning was countered. Fethrer is a brilliant Assassin, Temple trained. Your absence at Dictator Pass would have been disastrous if your daughter were left in charge. She obviously deserved her fate.

For the greater glory of the Druchii and your House I have conceived a plan that only you can be entrusted to carry out. It is a secret plan that no other General has been informed of.

First, you must acquire several months’ worth of supplies. I have sent orders to the Wrath Gate to have carts loaded with food and drink for you and your troops. No rations! Only the finest stocks shall be delivered as a reward for your loyal service. The Gate fortifications must be sealed, I am afraid. There is intelligence that indicates an Asur attempt to rescue a captured Prince. However I have made an exception for your carts due to the importance of this mission.

Once your supplies are acquired, make your way down the Dictator Pass and out onto the plains of Arnheim. There you must take the fight to the enemy. My spies in the Asur camp have indicted that the hated cousins have overlooked some defensive positions in the northeast quadrant of their construction site. I am counting on you to attack and overwhelm these positions. It will likely take more than a week for my current force to arrive at the southern front. Karelon Lengoth of House Melphular is a weak and incompetent buffoon. Lady Lelith Vraneth is a pathetic little girl. A Shade clan could better carry out my orders.

Only you are worthy of this mission.

May the weak fall before you like wheat at harvest,
General Kala Kodai Velari
Commander, Black Lotus Brigade

Posted: Fri Nov 19, 2004 5:55 pm
by Lord karelon
19 November
Fort Maibd
Maibd Pass, Wrath Gate

Hail Lord General Kala!

This day it is my pleasure to report that the 2nd Melphular Frontier Battalion massacred the Asur Ilellan Battalion.

As I previously report Major Tuern Graroth took the 2nd Melphular Frontier Battalion on a probe of the Asur 6th gate defenses. He came in contact with the Asur Ilellan Battalion and attempted to brake through their lines to test the Asur defenses. Major Tuern initialed the battle with a challenge to the Asur commander. Major Tuern proved the superior warrior by cutting the Asur down in the first moments of the fight. His battalion then charged the Asur and routed them in a short but blood battle. Druchii casualties were extremely light, only 150 killed and missing. Of the Asur, only 440 were taken captive, the remained were either killed or missing.

The battalion then continued onward towards the Asur defenses.

Regarding the state of the army here in the Maibd Pass, we have now seen our first blood shed by the sectarian violence. One of the lay leaders of the Cult, a lordling, was found dead in his tent this morning. Cult members were quick to accuse one of the Temple lay leaders, also a lordling, of the deed. Several Cult members and a few non-involved warriors testified that the two lordlings were seen arguing most loudly the afternoon before. The argument was such as to draw the attention of Fort Security. They broke the argument up and sent the offenders to their respective company camps. I have reviewed the security report and the testimonies of the witness to the argument and have had the accused lordling placed under arrest for suspicion of murdering a fellow officer. I am not all together convinced of his guilt. There are discrepancies in this situation that leaves me unconvinced.

As I do not have the services of members of the Office of the Inquisition, I have sent a request to my Father for the assignment of a detachment of the Inquisition. Least you be concerned about my use of them, please understand that unlike the Office in most of Naggaroth, the Office of the Inquisition in the SWM is under the control and command of the March Warder and not under the command of the Temple of Khaine. Five centuries ago, while the Temple was engaged in one of their frequent internal power struggles, the March Warder, my grandfather, won from the Temple the right to complete control of the Office within the March. Since that time, the March Warder Lord has chosen who served in the Office and how long they served. In addition to assassins from the Academy of Assassins, sorceresses from the Black Cites’ Towers have also been added. With the enmity that exists between the Towers and the Academy, the dynamics of the Office have been interesting to observe. But as all who serve in the Inquisition are first sworn to the March Warder’s Chair (not to the Warder’s person but to the office), they have a reputation for unbiased investigations. I believe that the investigation of such a team will be reassuring to both sides as all that are currently in this army are from the March and know the Office’s reputation. To those outside this command it may well look like one more example of my family’s bias against the Cult. I do have serious reservation about this murder being work of this particular lordling, even if he is a devotee of the god of murder. I shall keep you informed.

Death to the Asur! Glory to the Witch King!

Colonel Karelon Lengoth of Melphular
Fort Maibd, Maibd Pass, Wrath Gate

Posted: Fri Nov 19, 2004 9:17 pm
by Sexy druchii
To Lady Kala:

What ravings are these? Why would I cut off the Cult rienforcements from the north and my city? And what is it with these rations? I woul dnot be treated like royalty when there is still Asur to kill! A 2000 strong force of Asur was massacred today by my 5000 strong horde. We completly encircled them, and went on to kill them all. We feasted well today. We are getting back at the Asur for their insistance on attacking Wrath Gate, and now my forces approach the Arnhiem fields. We make camp today, and tomorrow we will go and hopefully die for Khaine on the fields of Arnhiem.

Do not think me crazy for the crucifyings or anything, its just that my troop's morale is low, and they need an example to be set of them. That is why Kara is crying and begging for me to release her from her position of torture. Another day and she should be all cured from her cowardice. And this is mainly to get back at the Asur for killing my wife. If I could, I would let my humans feast on Teclis, for commanding those mages to my camp, but it is not to be, as even you know, none but Malekith or Lady Morathi is powerful enough to take down that petty Teclis. Know this, I hate the Asur with all my fury and hate, and I will NEVER, ever stop hunting them until I die. This I decreed with a blood seal at age 5, when they killed my father. Do not think me crazy, for I am just fulfilling the oath that our kin took against the Asur.

LORD ANTELIOCH MAKSHOUI, RUINED FALLS

Posted: Sat Nov 20, 2004 4:39 am
by General kala
19 Nov.

The 5th and 7th are finally on the move. Our camp is uprooted and we march north along the eastern edge of the Petrified Forest. I expect that we are two weeks from the main Asur forces guarding the Shadow Gate site. I know that we won’t see the greenery of Arnhiem for ten days. It makes me seethe to think that our cousins selfishly hold the only fertile plains on the entire continent. They call us foul, yet the greed of the Asur knows no limits. They call us evil to keep from seeing their own evil.

Lord General Maksoui has written me to try to inform me that he is not crazy. I burst out in diabolic laughter upon reading his letter. I think he begins to detect the faint outline of my plan. Fortunately he has taken the rations and should lose his deductive reasoning soon along with his grip on reality. Still, I enjoy the head of the Asur Commander he sent me before I poisoned him, despite the insulting method of its delivery. I have placed candles in the eye sockets. Even now it illuminates my writings. I shall have to reward Maksoui generously if he survives. Let his madness be the test of his worth.

But I can only hope that the madness of the Witchbrew will stop him from calling me “Lady” as well. Oh how that grates at me. I feel like I am being called a little girl every time that someone says it. And now it reminds me of Xaniphera whispering it into my ear. I would send the entirety of Naggaroth a special dispatch if it were not such an obvious display of weakness. I also have no doubt that I would then hear it from every annoying little Druchii tick that wished to suck some irritation out of me. I must overcome this idiosynchracy.

Lord Melphular the Younger has called for an Office of the Inquisition to his fortress. I am suspicious despite his assurances that it is not the usual Temple controlled killing court. It would be useful to have arbiters and interrogators for the oppression and insurgency of the civil war. But many of my Black Lotus still bear the scars from their “Holy” Inquests. I will have to keep a close eye upon their proceedings. I may have to consider placing a representative from the Black Lotus on the Council of Judges. I doubt Karelon Lengoth would object.

Our rearguard is still absorbing strikes from Lustrian Lizards, both wet and dry Undead, and the hardliner Druchii from both factions. Although I doubt that they will live to catch up to the main force, they are tenacious. My troops have surprised me and survived through worse before.

On the subject of surviving hardships, the 5th and 7th are holding up splendidly. Only a handful of Xaniphera’s informants remain and they are being watched. The most basic courtesy is again common between the two factions. Last night I held council with the top officers of both Divisions sitting side by side. A Temple Hag even spoke with sincere admiration for a Slaaneshi Sorceress. Such things! Would that all of Naggaroth could follow this example. Malekith would again own Ulthuan in a matter of days and the whole world before the summer rains! How can the Black Throne not see the power of secular Druchii solidarity? Malekith needs but to raise a hand and make it so. Morathi and Hellebron would submit if they knew what was good for them. I shall say it again though it be treason - they are three blind fools.

I can barely suppress my excitement in the thought of arriving at the Shadow Gate with the full unified might of both Slaanesh and Khaine. It is my dream that all of Naggaroth will see the power of that union. A foolish wish, perhaps. But if I accomplish nothing else than to re-unify the squabbling Druchii factions in Arnheim and break the Asur I will have fulfilled a greater destiny than I had ever hoped.

The most impressive display yet of this unlikely union happened upon moving out at dawn. The Master of the March beat out the rhythm for the Ballad of the Phoenix Throne. It was a glorious experience to hear twenty thousand Druchii of both factions sing the chorus in a single voice. The mountains shook and the forests bent to our voice. The very heavens opened up to acknowledge the song of the masters of this world. The very sun rose above the Blackspines at our call.

It is a glory to be Druchii.

K

Posted: Sat Nov 20, 2004 4:54 am
by Sexy druchii
*a magical sound holder thingie arrives with this voice message*

Lady Kala.... What did you put in our fffood? Mmy troops arre foaming! I took my owwn rations, but shtill I am...*gack*..*gasp*...GRRRR! I WANT TO KIlL ASUR! I WILL GLORIUSLY FOLLOW YOU OR WHOEVER ELSE TO MY DEATH ON THE BATTLEFIELD! FOR KHIANE AND HIS MURDEROUS CREED!

KALA! WE LEAVE NOW! WE TAKE THE FIGHT TO THE ASUR! FOLLOW US OR NOT, WE DIE TODAY EITHER WAY! LET THE BATTLE BEGIN! WE TAKE THE FIGHT TO THEM!

LORD MAKSHOUI!!! FOR KHAINE AND DEATH!!!

Posted: Sat Nov 20, 2004 4:57 am
by Sexy druchii
*a frigtened messenger arrives with this letter*

General Kala, what is happening here? My liege's legion is frothing at the mouth, and all they say is "Blood for Khaine!" It is driving the 10 that didn't eat crazy. What have you done to my lord's legion? Why have you taken advantage of his bloodthirstiness? Why Kala, why do you send the last Druchii of northern Naggaroth to their deaths?

-Anonymous Ruined Falls citizen-

Posted: Sat Nov 20, 2004 5:01 pm
by Lord karelon
20 November
Citadel of Forlorn Hope

Lord General Kala

Greetings.

My son, Lord Karelon, has requested a detachment of the Office of the Inquisition be sent to him to investigate and adjudicate sectarian violence in the Maibd Pass. As the Maibd Pass is outside my jurisdiction and in yours, I will grant his request only upon your acceptance of it. Common courtesy obligates me to obtain the consent of the local territorial lord before taking such an action.

If you consent, I will send Karelon, Judicar Mazhnek Herillia and his Inquisition detachment. They will be instructed that while they are still under oath to me, that oath will be extended to include you and Karelon. This means that they can take no action without the signature of you in the case of capital actions or Karelon in the case of lesser actions. This has been the law of the Southwestern March since my father obtained sole control over the Office here.

Yesterday a fleet from the Southern Broken Lands attacked a Slaanesh fleet that was assembling to transport an army from the Chaos Wastes to the Northern Broken Lands. That army would have reinforced the Cult armies already operating against the Territorial governor and his armies. Admiral Lord Derhass Mallon of Morathor (younger brother to the territorial governor) led his dreadnought Mornas and three war cruisers to victory. Literally they massacred the assembled marauder longships and transports. It will take weeks before they can assemble another fleet to try crossing the straights. In the meantime I am authorizing the Southern Broken Lands governor to send battalions to the Northern Broken Lands to put down the insurrection. If they contented themselves with their war with the Temple of Khaine, none of this would be happening.

Agents of Hendath Droris, the Master of the Office of Inquisition here, have reported that the underlying cause of this effort by the Cult to take power in the March can be found in the animosity that exists between the High Sorceresses Asperor Kun of Marvok and myself. For personal reasons she and her cabal, including the high sorceresses Mornek Rerelon (currently leading the insurrection) and Karion Arien (who was with the Cult army attempting to cross to the Northern Broken Lands) are attempting to undermine my power and take political control of the March. There maybe a fourth high sorceress operating in the Kraken Forest, but we have not yet identified who she is or if she is connected to the Kun Cabal.

Glory to the Witch King!
Kala, may your sword ever be renewed in the blood of your enemies!

Lord Saur Lengoth of Melphular
Warder Lord of the Southwestern March
Loyalty to the Druchii and the Rightful King Malekith

Posted: Sat Nov 20, 2004 6:24 pm
by Carron
*messeage arrives by carrier piegon*

To General Kala hail,

General I do not know if you have recived my last messages, I fear some may have been intercepted by Lord Makshoui, a man I do not trust. If this is so here is a quick summary of the recent events that have occured in the Petrified Forest:

We managed to locate the Asurs encampment by following one of their patrols. We established that there were about 3000-5000 Asurs in the camp,including two mages, but no calvary.

The number now has swelled to 7000 and it appears that the Asurs are finally ready to commence their operation. here it is being directed at I still can not tell you as me and my men have spent the last eight days dodging Asur patrols. This is due to the fact that I tried to inflitrate two of my men into the camp to gather informtion. The next day their severed heads were displayed infront of the Asur commander hut. Since then Asur patrols have increased and it is only due to the skill of my men that we are still unseen and alive.

Then two days ago the Asur left their camp and headed North-West in a long single colum which has been stalked by my men eversince. I still do not know what the final what their final destination is but I shall continue the pursuit hoping that you General know something that I do not and that you can take action.

Should I hear nothing from you within four days I shall risked everything by trying to kidnap a high ranking Asur officer. He should be able to enlighten us with some pursuasion. However this operation would jepordise the life of everyone of my men and so I am reluctant to take it but I shall if no other course is left open to me!

Your loyal and faithfull servant
Bloodshade Qual'en

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 1:06 am
by General kala
*the same pigeon returns a few hours later*

Bloodshade Qual’en

I am sending a detachment to Withered Hand Rock. This is a distinctive rock outcropping that lies several leagues to the west of your estimated position. Rendezvous with them by midday tomorrow. This will be a hard march, but I have no doubt that a Shade clan such as yours is more than capable of the task.

The detachment will consist of three dozen Drannach and Uraithen trained warriors, two squads of five Dark Riders, several Cold One Knights, and sixteen Shades who just happen to be of a tribe that is allied to yours. There will also be an initiate Sorceress that is trained to summon daemons. The group will be led by Captain Kerlen the Bereaver, chief among the Knights. In addition, among the Shades you will find one named Zval. You will know him by a scar across his left eye. He is a guild trained Assassin. The group is unquestionably loyal to me and can be trusted.

My spies have informed me of much agitation in the enemy camp regarding their wizards. High-ranking Asur Geomancers are coming from Ulthuan to assist in the enchantment of the Shadow Gate. Other evidence would indicate that there is a high likelihood that certain petrified trees would be a necessary ingredient in these thaumaturgical rituals. Look for evidence of stone trees bearing many rings that the Asur may have on carts. My informants tell me that large specimens are needed, so they shouldn't be difficult to spot.

If this is confirmed, your mission will be to assassinate the Mages and eliminate the magical components that they may be gathering. Captain Kerlen and the entire detachment have orders to assist you in your plans. The small squad couldn’t possibly lay on a full assault of the Asur column. But they will provide some measure of protection and a distractive role. He can provide some tactical advice, but this will primarily be your operation and it will require great cunning. You may spend the lives of my troops, but do not waste them.

Though I know such trappings are meaningless to a Shade, you will be given the insignia of a Black Lotus Captain. This should assist you in assuming command of the group and in the event of an encounter with other forces. Be warned that a Black Lotus commander is not necessarily welcome in other camps.

The course of the Asur column is set to approach the Black Lotus unified force in about two weeks. After killing the Mages, withdraw and slowly reduce the enemy numbers. Use assassination and the strike-and-hide actions for which Shades are infamous. Focus your attention on the officers. If you are successful, a fortnight from now a demoralized and leaderless army will march into the tender embrace of a Druchii force three times their number.

Also, be aware. In the next few days I will be sending out small warbands on the eastern edge of the forest in order to field test the Daemons. Give them a wide berth.

Keep me informed above all else.

May your blade stay wet,
General Kala Kodai of House Velari
Commander, Black Lotus Brigade

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 1:49 am
by General kala
To Lord Saur Lengoth of Melphular
House of the Warder Lord, Southwestern March

Greetings and Salutations,

It has been far too long since I have written to you. This conflict can drag a few minutes of time out to seem like months. There is not a day that passes that my mind is not pulled to yet another task. I am grateful for the opportunity to send correspondence.

I deduce that you have heard of how the Office of the Inquisition has handled officers of the Black Lotus in the past. How curious that during times of war we are accepted and admired, but in times of peace (such as it is for Duchii) we are persona non grata. That aside, I send my gratitude for your offer to extend the Inquisitor’s oath to my command. I know full well that Inquisitorial Consent is a law and tradition that many Territorial Governors circumvent or ignore outright. It is gracious of you to follow the protocols, particularly since I am only the Governor of this territory by default and not by any edict from Naggarond.

The need for the Office of the Inquisition is indeed great. Mayhem stalks us all these days. Your son is a talented Warlord, but even he cannot control the whims of a populace at war with itself. Another curiosity that I should call myself fortunate to be commanding an army of heretics!

I will endeavor to subdue my prejudices. It will further allay my suspicions that I have the final word over the sentencing.

As to your Slaaneshi insurrection, I am reminded of something that a Slaaneshi Sorceress told me at council two nights hence. “We cultivate rebellion by suppressing the will of the Druchii. If we cultivated the will of the Druchii, the rebellion would never take root.” Her message was of course that Slaanesh should have a right to be worshipped in Naggaroth. Yet it brought another thought to my mind in regards to your position. If you offer the rebels religious tolerance, you may yet cultivate a rebellion within the rebellion.

But it is mere speculation from a commander who isn’t there to one that is. We both know that these matters are often far more complicated than a few platitudes. If they can’t be turned then break their backs and to Nurgle’s backside with them.

A thousand and one dark blessings on your house,
General Kala Kodai Velari
Commander, Black Lotus Brigade

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 12:20 am
by Carron
*messeage arrives by carrier piegon*

To General Kala hail,

General I have meet up with your detachment two days after receving your orders. I have also taken the liberty to call up my whole clan to join me in this mission before I dispatched my last message to you. Since then Shades have been arriving in groups of 10s to 20, by the time I intend to set off I shall have over 600 Dark Elves to unleash upon our cousins.

Since they joined me I have counsulted alot with Captain Kerlen, Sorceress Ailleann and Zval, devising the best course of action. So far we have decided to shadow the Asur and find out the location and safety of the Mages before we strike. As Asur patrols are still strong and the danger of messeages being intercepted is great I shall not report to you again until we have succesfully fulfilled our objectives. Should you hear nothing further from me you must assume that I have failed you.

Your loyal and faithfull servant
Bloodshade Qual'en

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 3:02 pm
by Lord karelon
22 November
Citadel of Forlorn Hopes

General Lord Kala

Hail and Greetings!

I do not envy you the responsibilities the Council dropped on you when they named you governor of the Witch Gate in the midst of war. I at least have the traditions of my family to guide me as Warder Lord.

Did you ever learn what happened to your predecessor? With the March including the Witch Gate I had regular dealings with Governor Lord Mergarth of the Wrath Gate. But just before the outbreak of the sectarian hostilities and the Asur offensive against the Wrath Gate I lost all contact with him. Gate Lord Uron Rornek of Kazhnig of the Witch Gate has been unable to tell me anything.

As a rule Druchii lords have very limited experiences controlling the tensions that exist between the religious and the political affairs of Naggaroth. Typically they have to balance the interests of the Temple and their own. Some deal with the enmity between the Convent of the Sorceress and the Temple of Khaine. Recently they may have had to deal with the Cult of Pleasure and the Temple. Here in the March we have had a different dynamic. Since the first Warder Lord struck a deal with the Marshal of the Confederacy for the admitting of the Black Cities into the Kingdom of Naggaroth we have had to insure a balance of interests between the Black Cities and their unknown sect and the Temple, the Convent and the Cult as they all fit within the greater society of the March. With such a wide spread of differences it has actually been easier to maintain a secular society.

As such, knowing the loyalty that exists between Druchii warriors and their lords, the presumption of the law is that if a unit rebels against lawful secular authority, it is because of the influence of their leaders. Only when the unit as a whole is found to have willfully rebelled is it purged. In all other cases the unit will be decimated as a lesson to all, but the remainder will be allowed to return to duty with replacements and new leadership. Probably the unit will be shipped to a different territory, but no other punishments will be required. So far in the Insurrection captured officers have all been put to death after interrogation, but few of the ordinary warriors have been. Gov. Lord Surl Khaggithor told me of one lordling that was captured at the Battle for the Governor’s Estate, Herien Rarvok after interrogation, he was found to actually not have known the reason for the orders to lead his company into the battle. Of course he was stripped of his command for stupidity, but other than that he was given the opportunity to move his family to the Plain of Dogs to start over. It has not come to the point where we execute people for stupidity.

Thank you for permission to send a Detachment from the Office of the Insurrection to the Maibd Pass. Karelon knows to keep you closely informed of such sensitive investigations. Judicar Mazhnek Herillia also knows his duty will be to keep you informed at all times.

Glory to the Witch King!

Lord Saur Lengoth of Melphular
Warder Lord of the Southwestern March
Loyalty to the Druchii and the Rightful King Malekith

[Contained within the scroll, with further encryptions.]
Kala, watch your back. I am hearing unsettling rumors of outside agitators among the ranks of the Druchii here and elsewhere and I do not mean only our cousins the Asur.

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 3:50 pm
by General kala
23 Nov.

An assassination was foiled last night. The infiltration was well executed, but he was thwarted trying to creep into the command tents. Fortunately, I have taken to sleeping in a standard issue bivouac tent like the rest of the troops. The Assassin crept in upon a half dozen Convent Sorceresses practicing Nagaelythe, the Chillwind. The corpse was revealed to be a Guild Assassin after it was thawed out. Whoever contracted for my life wasn’t playing overtly. A Temple Assassin would be too obvious - a blatant attack from the Khainite fanatics. No, even if it is the Temple’s doing, someone is playing a hidden game against me.

To add further annoyance, my officers in the Rearguard have informed me that Baron Tuphech led a rogue attack. He attempted to take a hundred or so against an undead shrine. How typical of him. Quite likely he saw the gold trinkets of Khemri sparkling in the sun and could focus on nothing else. The fool should have known that those trinkets are usually indications of rather vicious magics. To top off the incompetence he only brought a lone initiate sorceress to counter the magic of several wizards of the dead and a Casket of Souls. The Druchii that were entrusted to him are mostly dead now. No doubt they are being embalmed to swell the ranks of the Tomb Guard. The Baron himself is unaccounted for. He’d best keep running, as I have devised a suitable punishment involving molten gold should he return to camp by force or by choice.

Irritating as they are, the incidents are of little concern. The Rearguard is by no means broken. Assassination attempts are just part of the day–to-day activities of any Highborn.

The latest field test of the Daemonsproved quite successful. We caught a small warband of Asur trying to capture territory. I allowed an initiate Sorceress and a few Devoted of Slaanesh to lead a pack of Daemons to exterminate them. It was an enormously enjoyable battle to watch. When the engagement was through, many of our cousins lay dead and many Daemons were sent back to the void. But every last Druchii came back to camp. I must take the chance of being called up for Heresy and write a formal battle report to the High Command. The strategy of using Daemons to bear the burden of front line casualties could change the way that the Druchii wage war.

But we are approaching very rough terrain. It may be a few days before I can open the inkwell again.

K

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 4:41 pm
by Lord karelon
29 November
Citadel of Forlorn Hope

General Lord Kala
Wrath Gate

The Insurrection in the Northern Broken Lands Territory is over. The last of the rebel troops have been killed or captured. The few surviving leaders of the Cult of Pleasure’s Kun Cabal have fled to the northern ports seeking transport back to the Chaos Wastes. Dark Elf cruisers and Hydra ship raiders have been positioned to intercept them if possible. The seasonal storms have begun now and will make sailing those waters difficult. Their High Sorceress leader, Mornek Rerelon, is dead. Killed in battle with the Gov. Lord Surl Khaggithor of Makurl on the 25th. This final battle on the 27th completed the destruction of the rebellion ending the hopes that the Cult could obtain political control of one territory in Naggaroth.

After his victory over the High Soreress Gov. Lord Surl led his victorious battalions from the Governor’s Estate at Herien Rarvok to the Territorial Citadel at Tuerios Margoth to join with the loyalist battalions there and then to attack and crush the rebellious territorial battalions at their garrison.

The battle was begun with the Gov. Lord Surl challenging his former subordinate Colonel Kalris Ral and nearly killing him. Two of the other Loyalist Battalion commanders also challenged their opposites and in each case wounded them before they withdrew from the battlefield. The battle then began in earnest. It was a massacre. The loyalist army outnumbered the rebels two to one. In addition Gov Lord Surl sent two of his battalions on a flanking maneuver before the battle began.

Ironically the only rebel battalion to fight it’s opposite to a draw in that battle was the 15th Northern Broken Lands Raider Battalion on the CoP’s left flank. Which is also where the Loyalist flanking force battalions hit. It is probably too much to expect an army outnumbered two to one to be able to survive let alone be victorious, especially considering the fact that their side had lost the prior three battles by massacres, resulting in this battle being fought at such disadvantageous odds.

Justicar 1st Hendath Droris is done with the investigation into the attempted revolt of House Bergarthor and is now hunting for the CoP spymaster, Asunek. Asunek was not with the High Sorceress Mornek Rerelon when she died, so his exact whereabouts is unknown. A reward for his capture has been posted. As the Temple of Khaine considers him an apostate they have offered a reword just for his head, no questions asked. I could live with that.

Now to turn our attention to the troubles in the Kraken Forests, the Beastmen and their Cult of Pleasure instigators.

Glory to the Witch King!

Lord Saur Lengoth of Melphular
Warder Lord of the Southwestern March
Loyalty to the Druchii and the Rightful King Malekith