Tuesday, April 10, 2012

The Expedition into the Badlands: Seasons 1 and 2

Prince Yavandir of the ancient and glorious house Alkath sailed his hawkship Aenarion's Fury away from the Fortress of Dawn, making his way into the Black Gulf before slipping up river towards the Marsh of Madness.  His faithful soldiers had long traveled with their prince  in search of lost relics and forgotten lore, but this time was different.  Instead of simply raiding the libraries and treasure troves of the locals, Yavandir had commanded the founding of a city which he had named Caladai in honor of the dragon that had long carried him into battle. 

The Army of Prince Yavandir

Prince Yavandir (Armor of Caledor, Vambraces of Defense, Giant's Blade) on his Star Dragaon Caladai

Ravinil the Reckless (level 2), Dragon Mage of Caledor
Apprentice of the Sisters (level 2 mage, dispel scroll, lore of life)
Apprentice of the Sisters (level 2 mage, lore of life)

10 Archers
10 Archers
10 Archers
20 Spearmen
15 Seaguard

29 Swordmasters
29 White Lions

 Obviously searching for something, Yavandir quickly ordered the building of mines and divided his forces up to claim more land so that he could continue his quest.  He quickly learned that his western border was controlled by the Asrai, and he ordered his men to treat them with great caution in hopes of avoiding any misunderstandings.  However, the news from the forests to the south troubled him.  His scouts reported that a vampire lord was marshaling forces in those dark woods, so he quickly ordered the coven of mages that accompanied him, known to the soldiers as the Three Sisters, to let the undead feel the power of Elven magic.

The Army of the Sisters

Sister Ariel (level 4, Shadow, Book of Hoeth)
Sister Arianna (level 4, Death, Talisman of Saphery, Forlariath's Robe)

Tybalt, the Sister's Bodyguard (Noble, The White Sword, Talisman of Loec)
Sister Artemis (level 1, High)

50 Lothern Sea Guard
12 Archers

24 Phoenix Guard
27 White Lions
10 Dragon Princes (Mask of EEE, Elyrion Banner)

Eagle
Eagle


Despite the obvious threat to the south, it was in the north where elvish blood was first spilled. Having heard from the locals that men from the Empire had taken up residence on the other side of the marsh, Yavandir decided to undertake a diplomatic mission in order to cement an alliance.  Instead, he found an army led by a madman driving down upon his borders.  In a bloody engagement, the elven forces managed to drive the men back into the swamp, but in doing so, they nearly lost their prince.  After Caladai was incapacitated by several cannon shots, Yavandir had charged towards the artillery crew in hopes of avenging his fallen mount.  Instead, he was greeted with a face full of grapeshot.  The humans captured him, intending to take him back to their mad general, but in a show of elven strength and guile, he escaped.  Although badly scarred from his wound, he found himself strengthened by his desire for revenge.

The northern expedition brought forth one more troubling revelation, for the Asur learned that on the western border of the men was a Druchi army.  Yavandir's blood boiled at the thought of the hated foes of his race being so close, so he sent a message to an old friend from the Shadowlands known only as Fel Shadow.  Yavandir knew that the nameless elf could not refuse the opportunity to slay their dark brethern; however, the prince was truly shocked by whom accompanied him.  As Fel Shadow took his army north in the hopes of cutting a path into Druchi territory, he had at his side none other than Alith Anar.  The Shadow King himself had arrived to bring war to the sons of Naggaroth.

The Shadow Army 

Fel Shadow (Prince, Helm of Fortune, Bow of the Seafarer, Great Eagle)
Alith Anar

The Herald of Shadows (BSB, barded steed, Battle Banner)

30 Archers (banner of eternal flame)
30 Archers

10 Shadow Warriors
29 White Lions (amulet of light)
14 Swordmasters
11 Silver Helms


Notes from Seasons 1 and 2:

The elves found a relic in one of their mines.
They also uncovered a "giant's blade" which they brought to their prince.  Yavandir took it as his personal weapon.
In the next battle, the elves may use 50 extra points.
In the next battle, they may also modify one of their armies to have up to 75% special and rare forces.
Yavandir gained +1 strength after escaping capture.