Heirs of Sigmar

[Maugan Ra]

​

Once, there was a man unlike any other. A warrior, a leader, a hero, the sort of man who could lead a tribe of people from their backwater origins and into the annals of history. His name was Sigmar, Lord of the Unberogen, and by his deeds he forged the tribes of men into an Empire that would last a thousand years and more.

But not even the work of heroes lasts forever.

The Empire is broken, it's unity sundered and near forgotten, it's throne claimed by many and held by none. At first they called it 'Civil War', then 'The Age Of Three Emperors', but now… now there is nothing worth noting in the books, nothing to bind the splintered remnants of that once great nation together even in the eyes of history. The successor states are strong and prosperous nations in their own right, paying homage to common gods and speaking in common tongues, but there are increasingly few who would speak of them as one people.

And yet, the dream endures.

A generation past, the last and greatest of the Vampire Counts rose and led an army of the dead and damned against the realms of man. Mannfred von Carstein was a mighty foe, but in the depths of his shadow the splintered remnants of Sigmar's people reunited, and fought as one to throw him back into his crypt. Those heroes are gone now, buried with honours and succeeded by their children, but their example has not been forgotten.

Even now, young men talk of the old dream renewed, of fresh-forged ties to bind the realms of men, and their elders are not so swift to quiet them. If the Empire is to be renewed, this is the first generation in half a millennia that might truly see it done… but an Empire must have an Emperor, and rare is the Count who will agree to bow his head to another.

An age of blood beckons, of conquest and reconciliation, of heroes and villains…

An Age of War.

Spoiler: Alternate Map

-/-

The Year is 2200

The Vampire Wars are over, their dread architects staked and burned.

The damage has been healed, the threat already passing from memory.

A New Age is dawning.

Who will stand at its head?​

 

[triumph8w]

@Sinsystems

Hail elector countess,

I am writing this letter to inform you of the passing of Grandmaster Heinrich a few days ago. I am his successor, Herman. If you have need of my order against the unquiet dead you only need call, and we will answer.

May your death be easy, when it comes.
Grandmaster Herman of The high and Chivialric order of Deserved Rest ​

 

[Sinsystems]

@Sinsystems

Hail elector countess,

I am writing this letter to inform you of the passing of Grandmaster Heinrich a few days ago. I am his successor, Herman. If you have need of my order against the unquiet dead you only need call, and we will answer.

May your death be easy, when it comes.
Grandmaster Herman of The high and Chivialric order of Deserved Rest ​

Click to shrink...

Well met Grandmaster

It saddens me to learn of the passing of your predecessor, but I am sure that he now guards the other side of Morr's Gate. Still I will have need of your Knights in the days to come, you will receive a messenger with my request when the time is right.

May Sigmar's Light shine upon you.
Elector Countess Mathilde Van Hal​

 

[Sidheach]

The Duke of Carroburg



Henryk von Bildhofen
Duke of Carroburg
Bearer of Beast Slayer
Rightful Elector Count of Drakwald (Pending Imperial Approval)
Winner of Carroburg's Most Handsome Bachelor Six Years Running

---
​

From the Desk of the Duke of Carroburg, Henryk von Bildhofen
To the Peoples of Drakwald as well as the Assorted Sticky Beaks and Nosy Nellies of the Empire

Let it be known that Henryk von Bildhofen, Duke of Carroburg, Bearer of Beast Slayer, et cetera, et cetera, being of good cheer and noble spirit, intends to campaign in Drakwald Forest to see the perfidious Beastmen - whose inhuman countenance is surely a reminder of the savagery that awaits all those that turn from the light of Ulric, Sigmar, Manaan, Taal, and any other Gods this declaration may have missed who might curse men to inhuman savagery if they should ever reject their good graces - reduced greatly in number and the fair people of Drakwald made safe through the slaying of said Beastmen. Let those whose hearts swell with patriotic pride, a hatred of all that is unholy, and a love for conflict make themselves available in these coming months so that they might now the tremendous honour of campaigning alongside the Duke against the Beastmen.

Let it also be known that the owner of the red carriage has parked most inappropriately and is obligated to relocate their vehicle lest they wish to receive a fine.​

 

[Sinsystems]

@Dadarian

Hail o High Priest of Morr

I write to you this day with a request, we both know how the evil that shrouds Sylvania rouses the dead from their slumber and the wicked men who seek to chain them to their dark will. If this threat is to be ended great effort must be undertaken, as such I desire to further secure the Gardens of Morr within against Sylvania's darkness. Any aid you can give to this would have my eternal thanks.

May Morr's eyes be upon you.
Elector Countess Mathilde Van Hal​

-----------------​

@Wade Garrett

Well met Count

As you might be aware with the death of my predecessor I have been made the Elector Count of Stirland. As such it is my aim to purge Sylvania from the taint that has infected it since the vampire wars, as such I will soon launch an effort to expand and fortify the Gardens of Morr within the region. I expect you to aid in this endeavor with what resources you can spar.

May Sigmar's Light be upon you.
Elector Countess Mathilde Van Hal
​

 

[EarthScorpion]

Wolfenburg​

Rain hammered down on the high walls of Wolfenburg. It sluiced down between the slate-roofed houses, and ran in rivulets down the high stairs. The looming citadel at the heart of the mountainous town rose up, up, up - built into the very side of the mountain. And in one of the spires that looked down across the town, its ruler spent her time.

With her hulking, black-and-white bear hounds. They were not called that because they were the approximate size and shape of a young bear, though that was certainly true. Bear hounds were meant for hunting bears. They did that, as previously implied, by making themselves remarkably hard to tell apart from their prey.

Astrid von Wolfenburg squatted next to the hound who sprawled out by her roaring fire. "Now, now, Hans," she chided the dog, who likely weighed as much as she did. "There's no need to have such a temper. Is something the matter, baby?"

The dog looked away from her, his blunt black and white muzzle showing a hint of tooth.

"Does baby have a toothache?" Without any sign of fear, she took his jaw in both hands and pried it open. "Ah, baby broke a tooth on that silly stag, didn't he? Poor, poor Hans." She wrapped both arms around his neck, and kissed him on the head. "Don't worry, baby. Mama's going to get you to Herr Hertzmann and he'll see to that tooth, won't he?"

A man cleared his throat behind her, and she sighed. "What is it, Johan?"

"I do not like this, your grace. We do not want to wind up in hock to southern coin-thieves."

She flapped her hand at him. "My tutors were quite clear. Oh, I'm not going to waste good coin on replacing the perfectly good weapons of our forces all at once, but this matters."

"We have never needed such things before."

"Salkalten is frightfully vulnerable," she said, without looking at the markgraf. "I'll have Graf von Karkmann lead the delegation all the way to the south. While I hate to spend money on their handgonnes - why, they cost a fortune - I feel we must look towards getting more cannon for that town in the face of how much of our wealth runs through that place. My letter is on the table - I've already given von Karkmann his orders. Those fancy southerners will no doubt try to rip us off - hah! They're not staring down the nose of the Kislevite menace."

---

@SirLagginton

Article:

Dear Lord Wissenland,

Alas, I wish that we might be communicating under better circumstances. I offer my condolences in your time of grief, for I too know the pain of an untimely, unexpected accession to a title one would rather not hold. May your kin quickly find peace in the Garden of the Black God.

Unfortunately, the business of the world must interfere in such things. In the North, we have reason to act swiftly, before winter comes, and to that end we have interest in upgrading the defences of vital trade towns which have been greatly threatened by the raiders from the north. To that end, we wish to make a purchase of a certain number of cannon from your forges.

Graf von Karkmann is empowered to speak on my behalf to negotiate this purchase.

May the gods protect you, and you find favour in Sigmar's eye,

Grand Duchess Astrid Hilma Nina Ortud Julia Karen von Wolfenburg, Elector-Countess of Ostland, Protector of the Eastern Reaches, Hetdam of the Udoses

---

"Perhaps," Johan said, scowling. "But I don't like it."

That caused her to turn, her eyes flashing. The air took on a chilly air, and the fire flickered. As one, her pack of bear hounds all locked eyes on the markgraf. There was a growl that could be felt rather than heard, the sound of many large dogs each making a small sound that combined into something else. "Did I ask what you liked?" she demanded.

"No, your grace."

"Quite so." She settled back down, petting the largest one. "There, there, Hans. I have more letters for you, Johan. They're on the table. I need to get my poor baby to the huntsman so he can look at his poor tooth."

---

@Crilltic

Article:

Dear Lady Nordland,

Isn't it strange to speak to you like that, Jana? To think that the two of us would wind up as Elector-Countesses of an Empire without an Emperor! It makes one almost long for to be back at the convent, learning from the sisters again - though, of course, you got expelled so perhaps your opinion may be different! Have you heard from Magdalene, Louise or Sara recently? I heard Christine was getting married to a southern weakling - I wonder if he can handle her, or whether she will break his bones.

Forgive me for this levity. It is all I can do not to weep. So much of a burden that I never asked for.

Regardless, this is not only to talk of such things. I am beginning repairs and reinforcements of the northern trade routes that go through Salkalten, passing through your lands to the lands of Kislev. If you wish for us both to reap more benefits from this, it would be best if you would follow my lead in this. If the merchants can travel through both our lands with a minimal risk, then we will both do nicely from increased tax revenue and tariffs.

If you wish, we could meet to discuss this further - and catch up, of course! I have missed you, my friend.

May the gods protect you, and you find favour in Sigmar's eye,

Grand Duchess Astrid Hilma Nina Ortud Julia Karen von Wolfenburg, Elector-Countess of Ostland, Protector of the Eastern Reaches, Hetdam of the Udoses

---

@Scia

Article:

Dear Duchess Talabecland,

Salutations and greetings. My father spoke often of you - and the time you broken his toe when drinking together - but we have never met. After my father's untimely death, I am now grand duchess, and I hope that things will go well between us. Although, might I say, forgive me if I am perhaps wary of drinking with you - at least when not wearing iron boots!

Accompanying this note should be two pups from my own kennels, for your son's birthday. They're Osterlander bear hounds - quite the fierce breed in the face of an enemy, but they're big softies really. If he treats them well, they will adore him and keep him safe in all ways; if he mistreats them, they will turn on him. An instructive lesson for any lordling, no?

Remember to ensure they get plenty of bones to chew on, and that they get attention and things to do. Osterlanders are no one's lapdogs.

May the gods protect you, and you find favour in Sigmar's eye,

Grand Duchess Astrid Hilma Nina Ortud Julia Karen von Wolfenburg, Elector-Countess of Ostland, Protector of the Eastern Reaches, Hetdam of the Udoses

---

 

[Dovahsith]

A WARNING to the FAITHFUL of SIGMAR'S EMPIRE


BEWARE THE THRONE OF WINTER
BEWARE THE RABID WOLF

BURNING down homes and food stores as families shelter from the WINTER Snow,
These HALF-BEAST creatures LAUGH as families are forced to watch in HORROR as the INNOCENT WOMEN and CHILDREN of Heiligdorf are DEVOURED by the MONSTERS.

Commanded by the CORRUPT and BARBARIC worshipers of FALSE GODS, only UNQUESTIONED FAITH IN SIGMAR and the RIGHTEOUS VALOR of his NOBLE SERVANTS can repel the BEASTS


​

A Educational Informative Pamphlet into the Evils of Ulric Worship
Printed by Knott A. Prest and Sons​

 

[triumph8w]

THE UNEXPECTED​

Dying only a few days after his obvious heir, Heinrich had, unintentionally, greatly inconvenienced Herman. Who was, in the days of discussion following Heinrich's death, the one man the Knights of The high and Chivialric order of Deserved Rest ( or as they are more commonly known, the Knights of the Raven) could agree on to lead them. The result had surprised the normally dour and grim warrior greatly, and he did not have nearly as much faith in his ability to lead the order as they did.

But such was now his duty, and as such he would preform it to the best of his abilities, no matter how much he disliked it. And disliked it he did, he knew why they chose him(or at least the reasons they listed to him) but he never saw himself leading anything more than a small band of men in service to Morr. And while on paper he was the best choice after the other one died he could not help but feel as if he will fail, leading the Knights of the Raven to the orders destruction.

Of course he wouldn't say this to others, as his fear was mostly borne of his dislike for people. He did not like seeing them, he did not like talking to them, he did not like being touched by them, he did not like how some fought, he did not like-

Well, you get the idea.

He simply did not like people, the only ones who were exceptions to this were his fellow Morrites, where other people were an agitating presence they were a calming one, and if he were forced to lead any other band of men and women he did not think he could do it, but his fellow knights? Well, for them even though he disliked his new position he would do the best he could.

Already he had sent a letter to the new Elector Countess of Stirland to inform her of his predecessors passing. As his first official letter as Grandmaster he struggled with it, trying to find words to fill it up. Eventually he decided to just be straight to the point, and inform her of what happened in the quickest of terms while reaffirming his orders commitment to putting the unquiet dead to rest.

Dread Sylvania they called it. Bah, the only dreadful thing about it was how many dead were denied their deserved rest by some foul necromancer or skitter vampire. The usual terrors of the place held no sway over the Knights of the Raven, to some of them it was a disliked place where the dead were denied their rest, to others it was simply seen as an increase in workload. One the Knights of the Raven would take to with gusto. Though the rest of the living shy away from such a place, and unfortunately the dead cannot be given their dues without a manpower that the order does not have.

Though it seems, judging by the letter he got back from the Elector Countess, he may not need worry about that. Perhaps soon he and his order might be able to fulfill their sacred duty with a greater efficiency. Regardless whether alone or accompanied by others not of their faith the priests of Morr will do their duty to the dead.

And see them to their rightful rest.

 

[Rincewind]

Excerpts of Grandmaster Horst's speech to the assembled Knights of the Everlasting Light
upon the consecration of their new chapterhouse​

( thought to be made in the privacy of their hold but unfortunatly overheard by half of the village of Essen due to inconvenient accoustics and after a crow smartly opened a window opening on the local market )

" I have for all of the honoured and brave defenders of the innocents and noble servants of Verena the Just assembled here , as usual a list of bad news to announce:
- a part of our latest shipment of donations from the faithful and our generous patrons seem to have been mistakenly sent to Karak Kadrin ; while the dwarves so renowned for their honour have redirected the convoy towards us and prevented it from falling afoul of bandits this will mean that because of a lack of funds we will have to feed ourselves on limited rations and a stock of composed purely of cabbages generously donated by local farmers for several weeks if not an entire month

- some members of the Scrollbearers , while brothers of faith and undeniably dedicated to Verena , have annoyingly seized many of our ledgers and inventory books last night , despite serious doubts on my part that it present worthwhile information to be added to their secret libraries.
Asking them to send our books backs is futile , as such we will spend the next 2 nights taking inventory of our belongings from scratch

- Finally , i would like everyone to take a moment of silence for our brother Hans Gelterd , which will remain incapacited for several days still after having hurt himself falling down the stairs.

( the knights stay silent for around a minute while two cats breaks the solemn moment by copulating and screaming in a nearby room )
​

But now raise your heads and take hearts brothers !
For I have a good news for you : this town and these lands surrounding it are the perfect ground to demonstrate our worship of Verena the Just , for they are in dire need of JUSTICE , filled with monstruous horros to be slain , and with innocents to protect ! "

( disorganised and excited cheers follow )


​

@Bandeirante

Hail Elector-Count and Chancellor Frederick von Schaffernorscht ,

As Verena is my witness ,
I am notifying you of the establishment of the chapterhouse of our Order in the League of Ostermark , in the town of Essen to be more accurate.
Should yourself or any of your subjects be in need of selfless defenders or of Justice arbitrated , know that the Templars of Verena will be at your disposition.

Grandmaster Horst Kleiner of the Order of the Knights of the Everlasting Light​

 

[Deadly Snark]

Middenland​

@Dadarian

Respected Guardians of the Dead

The deaths of my lords, The Counts Betrand and Albert Heinz at the hands of the fouls creatures of Chaos and their vile magic came as a shock to all. The whole Province now prepares for a war of vengeance, and though the Cult of Ulric has assured me that the bodies will not be desecrated by the workings of the Beastmen, there are more opportunistic monsters hiddenn within the forests of Middeland. Vampires and Necromancers who survived the destruction of the Von Carnsteins chiefly amongst them.

I would feel more reassured if the Priests of Moor were to pay special attention to the proceedings of the state funeral this time. Perhaps with the help of some Knights of Morr to bolster the might of Middenheim's warriors. Just to be abolutely certain that none shall defile them Heinzs again and that any who dares shall by met by the fury of the eldest gods of mankind.

May Morr Protect your Dreams
May Ulric Hound your Foes

Champion Konrad Von Schild, Regent of Middenland and Middenheim, Protector of the Sacred Flames of Ulric

Click to shrink...

------------
@Alectai

To the Esteemed Grandmaster Adolf Von Jager, His Most Loyal Wolf.

It is to my regret that it is I who writes to you today. The dearly missed Count Albert had spoken to me at length about his hopes and his desire to work with you to pass reforms that our people needed. I confess, I did not necessarily agree with his enthusiasm about your ideas, but then I am a old dog, well into the winter of his life. In a perfect world the future would be for young heroes like you two to chart with the guidance of old fools like me.

But such is not the world we live in. The Tragedy of Drakwald has cut those hopes away. Yet nevertheless with the disaster, I am now beginning to see that perhaps there was some wisdom in those ideas the young Count shared with me. So make your case Grandmaster, and if you sway me, I shall work with you to make Middenland and Ulric strong.

May Ulric's Winter whither the flesh of your prey.

Champion Konrad Von Schild, Regent of Middenland and Middenheim, Protector of the Sacred Flames of Ulric

Click to shrink...

-------------
@Zedalb

To the Holy Al-Ulric Kriestov, Keeper of the Sacred Flames, Champion of the Wolf God, Ulricsson

I thank you once more for your support of my claim to the Regenthood of the young lord, our liege Leopold Heinz. Now that the necessary politics and the chaos associated with such have gone by and things have settled down, I wish to discuss two important matters with your Holiness.

The first being the education of Lord Leopold. He is young yet, but if he is anything like his forefathers, he shall grow strong in the blink of an eye. In times past I recall that Count Albert had approached you about the idea of having him study abroad in an effort to strengthen some future ties of alliance. Sadly, regardless of the merits or flaws of that idea, such is no longer possible now. He must be protected and reared by the Ulric's most trusted in order to assure his safety against the vultures that now circles around him. We can discuss the finer details later alongside his Grandmother and mother.

The Second matter I wish for your aid on is Vengeance. The Grudge must be paid. Drakwald Forest will burn, and the Beastmen herds who think themselves masters of the wild will know that there is only one King of the Wilds and his name is Ulric. I require the aids of the Priest of Ulric, the martial might of His chosen, His Blessing for the campaign and more important for the faithful to receive His call to war.

May Ulric's Foes Fall Beneath you Axe.

Champion Konrad Von Schild, Regent of Middenland and Middenheim, Protector of the Sacred Flames of Ulric

Click to shrink...

--------------
@Sidheach

To the famed Henryk von Bildhofen, Lord of Carroburg.

It is excellent news that you are so eager to slay the abominations that calls Drakwald Forest home. Too many of my other Lords do not care for it. Preferring instead to see to the defenses of their own holdings. Not exactly an unwise decision to be sure especially in the aftermath of the Tragedy. Yet if we wish to cut down the forces of the Forests and secure the future of the people of Middenland, a coordinated effort of all the lords and armies of Middenland must take place.

I have already spoken to the Al-Ulric and the Grandmaster of the White Wolves on this matter. With the addition of your influence, we might be able to call upon a true Crusade to crash down upon this Evil.

May the Gods smile upon you and grant you protection.
May Ulric's Ferocity be imbued into your strikes.

Champion Konrad Von Schild, Regent of Middenland and Middenheim, Protector of the Sacred Flames of Ulric

Click to shrink...

------------
@Scia

To the esteemed Duchess Brigitte II of Talabecland

First of all, I suppose I should apologize for being unable to accept your offer to come and tutor your Sons in fine tradition of Ulricans smacking Taalites around. Too much has changed in such a short amount of time, and while I did not plan on accepting anyways, at this point I doubt I will ever set foot outside of Middenland again in my remaining lifetime in any capacity but as a general.

To follow that up, I recall that there were some talk floating around of a dynastic marriage between your House and the House of the Heinzs. Unfortunately due to the current situation, I cannot guarantee that the talks will continue for the foreseeable future. The Al-Ulric wishes to keep the boy safe and reared in the traditional ways, and the wounds of the Tragedy are still too raw at the moment.

With that out of the way, let me get down to the matter of state and of war. I desire to wage a major campaign against the Forces of Forest Drakwald, and none alive are more experienced in that battle than the Children of Taal and Rhya. If we were to clear a significant portion of the Forest, both our people would stand to benefit. What says you, Old Friend?

May Taal and Rhya guard your homes and bless your fields.
May Ulric's Fury guide your blows.

Champion Konrad Von Schild, Regent of Middenland and Middenheim, Protector of the Sacred Flames of Ulric

Click to shrink...

------------
@bookwyrm

To the Master of the Alchemist's Guild Philip Von Hohenheim

I want results.

For centuries the people of Middenheim and the Cult of Ulric have tolerated your existence in the holiest site of Mankind, for the simple fact that your promised and sometimes delivered results.

Well, now Middenland has need of your services. What can you do to aid in the campaign against Drakwald?

Ulric Watches Over you.

Champion Konrad Von Schild, Regent of Middenland and Middenheim, Protector of the Sacred Flames of Ulric

Click to shrink...

 

[Terran Imperium]

@Scia @Sinsystems @Dovahsith

Ser Frederika Goldwasser, by the grace of Sigmar, Grandmaster of the Knights of Sigmar's Blood, to the venerable Elder-Countess Brigitte II, Grand Duchess of Talabecland, and Margravine of the East March and to Elder-Countess Mathilde von Hal, Grand Countess of Stirland, Princess of Wurtbad, Matriarch of Sylvania; her most kind greeting.

Let all rejoice and exult in Sigmar's glory, and let those who are correct in heart glorify Him, who, to make known His power, does not make boast of horses and chariots, but has now gained glory for Himself, in the scarcity of His soldiers, that all may know and understand that He is glorious in His majesty, terrible in His magnificence, and wonderful in His plans on the sons of the Empire, changing seasons at will, and bringing the hearts of the different provinces together as He once did; for in these few days, by strength rather than by miracle, there is a wish to see this state of affair the realms of the former Empire brought to a conclusion, which for a length of time, many Elector-Counts and self-proclaimed Kings amongst the multitude of the Provinces, have never been able till now to accomplish by force, however great, nor by fear. It is in our best interest to see it done for there is more that lies await than the pettiness and greed of men.

Not, therefore, to keep you in suspense by a long account, we wish to inform your holiness, that we, firmly putting our trust in Sigmar, and believing that Grand Theogonist Kraft, His son and messenger upon this mortal world, in whose service we have so devotedly exposed our bodies and lives, would not abandon us in these unknown and distant countries, but would at least give us wholesome advice and assistance for His honour, praise, and glory, boldly in the name, we will set forth from Heldenhame Keep on the sixth day of the month of Nachexen and arrive safely at Stirland, intending to rebuild a castle of time past near Leicheberg with proper strength, that afterwards, the approach to the Haunted Hills might be not only easier but also shorter and safer for us as well as for all the faithful of Sigmar. While, we are in the confidence of our trust in Sigmar's chosen; the Grand Theogonist in pacifying the land; the answer to the question of its success lies within your hands, Elder-Countesses. It may seem a foolhardy endeavour to support the pacification of another province. As have been shown, the previous vampire threats and other various monstrous threats had stemmed from the Haunted Hills and beyond to Sylvania that not only affected Stirland but its neighbouring provinces as well, if not, the entirety of the former Empire's provinces.

In brief, therefore, Sigmar willing, we shall return to you as heroes. We render to you the gratitude which you deserve for your care of the faithful and for the very great fidelity which you have shown to us before. With the full intention of worthily rewarding your trust in this endeavour; we ask you to continue the same if we prove to be successful.

Written and sealed by Ser Frederika Goldwasser, current Grandmaster of the Knights of Sigmar's Blood.
Additional seal of approval by Grand Theogonist Wenzel Kraft of the Church of Sigmar.

 

[Sinsystems]

@Scia @Sinsystems @Dovahsith

Ser Frederika Goldwasser, by the grace of Sigmar, Grandmaster of the Knights of Sigmar's Blood, to the venerable Elder-Countess Brigitte II, Grand Duchess of Talabecland, and Margravine of the East March and to Elder-Countess Mathilde von Hal, Grand Countess of Stirland, Princess of Wurtbad, Matriarch of Sylvania; her most kind greeting.

Let all rejoice and exult in Sigmar's glory, and let those who are correct in heart glorify Him, who, to make known His power, does not make boast of horses and chariots, but has now gained glory for Himself, in the scarcity of His soldiers, that all may know and understand that He is glorious in His majesty, terrible in His magnificence, and wonderful in His plans on the sons of the Empire, changing seasons at will, and bringing the hearts of the different provinces together as He once did; for in these few days, by strength rather than by miracle, there is a wish to see this state of affair the realms of the former Empire brought to a conclusion, which for a length of time, many Elector-Counts and self-proclaimed Kings amongst the multitude of the Provinces, have never been able till now to accomplish by force, however great, nor by fear. It is in our best interest to see it done for there is more that lies await than the pettiness and greed of men.

Not, therefore, to keep you in suspense by a long account, we wish to inform your holiness, that we, firmly putting our trust in Sigmar, and believing that Grand Theogonist Kraft, His son and messenger upon this mortal world, in whose service we have so devotedly exposed our bodies and lives, would not abandon us in these unknown and distant countries, but would at least give us wholesome advice and assistance for His honour, praise, and glory, boldly in the name, we will set forth from Heldenhame Keep on the sixth day of the month of Nachexen and arrive safely at Stirland, intending to rebuild a castle of time past near Leicheberg with proper strength, that afterwards, the approach to the Haunted Hills might be not only easier but also shorter and safer for us as well as for all the faithful of Sigmar. While, we were in the confidence of our trust in Sigmar's chosen; the Grand Theogonist in pacifying the land; the answer to the question of its success lies within your hands, Elder-Countesses. It may seem a foolhardy endeavour to support the pacification of another province. As have been shown, the previous vampire threats and other various monstrous threats had stemmed from the Haunted Hills and beyond to Sylvania that not only affected Stirland but its neighbouring provinces as well, if not, the entirety of the former Empire's provinces.

In brief, therefore, Sigmar willing, we shall return to you as heroes. We render to you the gratitude which you deserve for your care of the faithful and for the very great fidelity which you have shown to us before. With the full intention of worthily rewarding your trust in this endeavour; we ask you to continue the same if we prove to be successful.

Written and sealed by Ser Frederika Goldwasser, current Grandmaster of the Knights of Sigmar's Blood.
Additional seal of approval by Grand Theogonist Wenzel Kraft of the Church of Sigmar.

Click to shrink...

Hail Ser Frederika Goldwasser

It pleased me greatly to know that the noble Knights of your most holy order will soon grace my province's soil, I would gladly provide what aid that I can in your efforts to rebuild the castle and purge region of the taint of Undeath. As fortune would have it I have already begun forming plans to pacify the region and would most appreciate if your knights join my troops as they purge the Haunted Hills.

May Sigmar's Light shine upon you.
Elector Countess Mathilde Van Hal ​

 

[Terran Imperium]

@triumph8w @Rincewind @Skrevski

Ser Frederika Goldwasser, by the grace of Sigmar, Grandmaster of the Knights of Sigmar's Blood, to Ser Horst Kleiner, Grandmaster of the Templars of the Everlasting Light, to Ser Adalius Humfried Erbsenzähler, Grandmaster of the Order of the Blazing Sun, and to Ser Hermann, remaining unnamed, Grandmaster of the High and Chivalric Order of Deserved Rest; her most kind greeting.

We have very frequently been witness to your faithfulness, proven in many trials, to us and to the people, we do not doubt that you will rejoice greatly if you hear of the current endeavour being taken within the Grand County of Stirland and because we know that you especially desire to hear from us and to learn the state of this minor campaign within the Haunted Hills, we think it fitting first to tell you of this.

By Sigmar's mercy, we will see the Haunted Hills pacified for the faithful to live in without worry as we settle nearby, we will forever seek to guard the Provinces against the threats of Sylvania, we will accomplish in these lands all that Sigmar wills and the people of the country permits. There is much to gain in this campaign we are leading.

Moreover, that Sigmar may deign to make our journey prosperous and successful, we ask that you and your brethren will pray for us and will request all faithful to do the same. As we entrust this campaign to your fidelity, should it stand true.

Written and sealed by Ser Frederika Goldwasser, current Grandmaster of the Knights of Sigmar's Blood.

 

[triumph8w]

@triumph8w @Rincewind @Skrevski

Ser Frederika Goldwasser, by the grace of Sigmar, Grandmaster of the Knights of Sigmar's Blood, to Ser Horst Kleiner, Grandmaster of the Templars of the Everlasting Light, to Ser Adalius Humfried Erbsenzähler, Grandmaster of the Order of the Blazing Sun, and to Ser Hermann, remaining unnamed, Grandmaster of the High and Chivalric Order of Deserved Rest; her most kind greeting.

We have very frequently been witness to your faithfulness, proven in many trials, to us and to the people, we do not doubt that you will rejoice greatly if you hear of the current endeavour being taken within the Grand County of Stirland and because we know that you especially desire to hear from us and to learn the state of this minor campaign within the Haunted Hills, we think it fitting first to tell you of this.

By Sigmar's mercy, we will see the Haunted Hills pacified for the faithful to live in without worry as we settle nearby, we will forever seek to guard the Provinces against the threats of Sylvania, we will accomplish in these lands all that Sigmar wills and the people of the country permits. There is much to gain in this campaign we are leading.

Moreover, that Sigmar may deign to make our journey prosperous and successful, we ask that you and your brethren will pray for us and will request all faithful to do the same. As we entrust this campaign to your fidelity, should it stand true.

Click to shrink...

Hail, Ser Frederika Goldwasser, Grandmaster of the Knights of Sigmar's Blood,

You will be joined by the blades of the High and Chivalric Order of Deserved Rest in your endeavor. May we together give the unquiet dead the rest they deserve.

May your death be easy, when it comes.
Grandmaster Herman of the High and Chivalric Order of Deserved Rest.​

 

[ChineseDrone]

THUS IS DECREED BY HIS GRAND HIGHNESS FRANCIS LUDWIG VON ELLINBACH, GRAND COUNT OF AVERLAND, TO ALL THE KNIGHTS AND LORDS OF SIGMAR'S FAITH
(@Maugan Ra @Rincewind @Terran Imperium @Swordomatic @SirLagginton @Sinsystems @Wade Garrett )

Noble sons of Sigmar's blood! Twas one hundred years ago that my grandfathers Sir Siegfried of Stirland and Friedrich Henry von Ellinsbach, Grand Count of Averland rode in battle with the pact of dwarfs and men against the vile vampire king KONRAD VON CARSTEIN. With the blessings of Sigmar we did destroye his foule vampyre armies, and with Sigmar's grace his plot to enthrone his undead puppet Grand Count Helmut was reveal'd to us and driven out! In this year of Sigmar two thousand and two hundred, I do honor my forefathers with a grand tournament at the Plains of Striessen, so that our ancestors may look upon our arms from Morr's realm and know that these lands and children of theirs who they so labor'd to guard remain protect'd in the safe hands of our brave and noble knights of Sigmar!

For't has been fifty years and more since the swords of men were last raised against the the hosts of the foule living dead, and more still since the last ravages of the greenskins hath travers'd our lands! Our greatest foes may soon forget that in times of strife, all we men shall fight with Sigmar's grace to vanquish those vile things that walk his sacred lands, and shall do so by the valor and the force of arms with which our Holy Sigmar hath bless'd us! But we, brothers, musn't ever forget! For all thou art my brothers on the field of battle that may come, in the next day when the undead or the greenskins or the heretic or slaves of darkness should trouble our lands, and in the next, and the next, and the next! So soon in our petty quarrels is sacred duty which bindes us together, we sons of Sigmar, left by the wayside. We must remember, lest the forces most foul which beset the realms of men on all sides overcome us!

We shall be gathered, as well, for a reason second—to honor the memory of the late Grand Count Martin of Stirland, who was so cruelly taken from us with little warning not long ago. I knew him, and my father knew him well—my grandfather counted him as great friends when mine rode under him to fell the vile vampyre Mannfred von Carstein. All my life I knew Grand Count Martin to be a just and honorable lord, possessed of infinite zeal and valor and of a vim and vigor even in his old age that surpass'd but few men. He was a true hero of man and a worthy heir to Sigmar's legacy, and tis' my greatest regret that he shall not be with us here today to see the brotherhood he would celebrate without any doubt. And so I extend my welcome to the new Grand Countess and all the lords and knights of Stirland in particular, so that we together may toast his life and honor his memory with the unity of the faithful he instill'd.

And thus, I do invite thou to feast and fest with thine fellow sons of Sigmar upon the Fields of Striessen, where we shall honor the Sigmar and the lesser gods and our forefathers with our valor and martial talents. 'Tis the greatest and most dear hope of mine that on this day we noble warriors and lords under Sigmar's grace shall forever forswear petty conflict between ourselves, and vow instead to turn arms not against our brother but against the liche, the vampire, and the orke, against the heretic and the usurper and the knave, and to thusly see Sigmar's peace restor'd at least in word and spirit. I have spared no expense in this venture, my friends, and only the finest accommodations that <10 Capital> can purchase shall await you here today. Friends, let us spar and drink in the name of our savior Sigmar, and let us show all the foule things and treacherous villains that lurk among and beyond our lands that the Sons of Signar SHALL NEVER BE DEFEATED!

 

[Terran Imperium]

@ChineseDrone

Ser Frederika Goldwasser, by the grace of Sigmar, Grandmaster of the Knights of Sigmar's Blood, to Elector-Count Francis Ludwig von Ellibach; in answer to their request.

We would be politely declining such a request. Our host is marching to Stirland on the sixth day of the month of Nachexen; early in the year, we will reach Leicheberg. We will spare some volunteering knights who will stay to garrison our Keep to assist to the feast and tournament on our behalf. The matter belying in Stirland being of an important matter to us, we wish to see it succeed. Should the feast be delayed or kept to a later time, we would be more than glad to assist it personally.

Written and sealed by Ser Frederika Goldwasser, current Grandmaster of the Knights of Sigmar's Blood.

 

[SirLagginton]

Nuln​

The ceiling of the Cathedral of Sigmar loomed high over, the stone and wood arches framing a cavernous hall that seemed greater than the sum of its parts. Great tapestries clad thick stone pillars, proudly proclaiming the feats and deeds of the Man-God. The whole room was awash in harsh hues of red and gold, courtesy of the stained glass windows that overlooked the hall, Sigmar at its apex judging his would be supplicants with eyes both regal and cold.

Friedrich set the candle down on the altar, kneeling as he did so. Some of the newer Sigmarite initiates had looked at him dubiously when he'd entered, no doubt his reputation as a follower of Lady Myrmidia at work there, but old Ulrich, bless him, had smacked several of them upside the head to leave him alone. Though it was true that he didn't visit often, as while he held Sigmar in high esteem as father and god of the Empire Lady Myrmidia held his highest devotion, Anne-Marie had always been more of a Sigmarite than either himself or his father, and he felt compelled to honour her by honouring in turn those she saw highest.

"Why test me so Lord Sigmar?" He murmured. "It should have been my Sister, kneeling within the sacred halls of Myrmidia. I believe myself to be adequate, but sometimes..."

He sighed and rose, there was little practicality in flagellating himself, he knew that. But the black mood took him without fail on the anniversary of Anne-Marie and father's deaths.

"Sigmar rewards those with valor." Ulrich's voiced boomed behind him. He walked up next to Friedrich, giving a nod of respect to the candle at the altar. "Did Lady Anne-Marie not tear down the greenskin menace at the foot of Wissenburg? The blood of martyrs have bought us peace in our time."

The Priest softened and clapped a callous hand on Friedrich's back. "Grieve, for the light that the greenskins have robbed from us, for the lost to their cruelty. But do not dwell overmuch lest we forget what their courage has blessed us with. They are heroes, take pride in that."

"As always father, you are willing to dispense wisdom for the impious." He chuckled wryly, the black mood not quite going away, but somehow becoming more... bearable? "What happened to the crotchety old man who kicked me out of the cathedral upon learning of my faith?"

"Pffft, that was before you became Grand Count and forced me to listen to whatever comes out of your mouth. I have other duties to attend to now but as ever you're as welcome to stay as long as you like your grace. Don't tarry overlong, you have duties that lie outside this church after all."

---

@EarthScorpion

Article:

To the August Lady Ostland

The burden of grief upon these shoulders has become lighter for your condolences. To have blood and kin so unjustly torn from you and to assume the mantle of their responsibilities is terrible indeed, and I too must offer my own for your own losses in this dark age.

On the matter of business, we in Wissenland would only be too glad to welcome your representative, and will accordingly expect his arrival. The pioneering of firearms is indeed a point of pride among the smiths and engineers of Wissenland and we have no doubt that you will find our arms satisfactory should the terms of the purchase be decided upon.

The gods smile upon thee, and Myrmidia shield thee from the darkness.

Grand Count Friedrich von Schwarzburg, Elector Count of Wissenland, Baron of Nuln, Warden of Echoes

---

@Maugan Ra

Article:

To the Esteemed Doge of Miragliano

Greetings from the north. For over two score generations our two states have ever been firm trading partners and firmer friends, and it is time to once again reaffirm these ties. I cordially invite you and the heads of the merchant houses to Nuln to discuss business and witness the city that is Wissenland's pride. My late father has oft mentioned the great magnitude of the generosity of Tilean hosts, it's time in turn to show Wissenland generosity in turn.

The gods smile upon thee, and Myrmidia shield thee from the darkness.

Grand Count Friedrich von Schwarzburg, Elector Count of Wissenland, Baron of Nuln, Warden of Echoes

---

@ChineseDrone

Article:

To the Noble Grand Count Francis Ludwig von Ellinbach

I feel the loss of Grand Count Martin as keenly as any other, for he conducted himself with a sense of unwavering duty and relentless piety to do good in Sigmar's name. To see a hero of old, a man who rode with mine grandfather and yours when the shadow of cursed Mannfred haunted the land taken from us so suddenly serves as only a reminder of the example by our forefathers we must live up to. I and my retinue would be more than glad to celebrate the passing of our friend and colleague and to also welcome the new Countess of Stirland into the ranks of the Elector Counts.

The gods smile upon thee, and Sigmar give you the strength to see your endeavours through.

Grand Count Friedrich von Schwarzburg, Elector Count of Wissenland, Baron of Nuln, Warden of Echoes

 

[Crilltic]

Grand Barony of Nordland Turn 1 ​

Treasury: 20 Capital
Income: +25 Capital
Upkeep: -10 Capital

Military of Nordland:

1st Nordland Navy - "Old Razorbacks"
Commander: Admiral Katarine von Moltke
- Full Strength
- Medium and Light Ships, Heavy Marine Complement

1st Nordland Army - "Seahawks"
Commander: General Eryck von Scharnhelm
- Full Strength
- Average Soldiers

~///~
​

Once when Jana was a young girl, and she was growing up on-board her father's ship, she had heard the rumor that the Elector Count could see the whole of Nordland from the window of his throne room. Now that it was her throne room, she could definitively say that that rumor was a crock of shit, though the view of the river Salz and the silver hills stretching into the distance was certainly one of the best parts of her new life. No matter how incongruous the fact that this was her life was.

Even now, months after Old Uncle Karl was dead and buried, she still sometimes expected to see him sitting here in the Keep. At times it had felt like he would always be there, and to lose the man who had been the closest thing she had to a father for these past several years hurt.

However, though she was loathe to admit it, it hurt a lot less the second time around.

Still, for all the view was fantastic, and the weight of the rune-blade around her waist made her positively giddy with excitement, she could not help but wish that at least one of those sycophantic slatterns who had been fluttering in and out of her Uncle's court these last few years had actually managed to do what they had so clearly been trying to do. So while her late uncle might have been an irascible old coot, he was unfortunately not a particularly fertile one.

Which left her here, trying to make sense of numbers and politicking that a succession of tutors had thus far unsuccessfully tried to jam into her head, and even after all these years missing the smell of sea-breeze and the feeling of wind in her hair.

~///~​

@EarthScorpion

Article:

Dear Lady Ostland,

It is good to hear from you Astrid, and I must admit it was quite a shock to me to hear what befell your family. A ghastly business all told, and a damn tragic one at that, and I wish that the God's be good to you in the face of it all. It was a terrible time when I lost my father, and if you ever need to talk, know that I will wait for your letters.

To answer your questions though, I have not heard Louise or Sara, Sara was always more your friend than mine in the short time I was there, and I don't think Louise ever forgave me for the time I stole her bedsheets to go and enjoy the harvest festival. I heard Magdalene is doing fine though, married the scion of some noble house last year down in Middenland, I should know the name but I don't. You should read the drivel she says about him, you'd think he just stepped foot out of some bard's tale, but you know how she gets.

I give her maybe three more months before she gets bored and moves on.

Anyway, I would love to host you here in Salzenmund. My uncle's chancellor keeps telling me I need to do more, and I finally gave him the coin he was asking for to throw a proper Nordland party, and I would love it if you could attend. We can have a chance to talk then, I'll admit I have missed you as well.

Yes, even your nagging.

May the gods be kind and good fortune come your way, my friend

Grand Baroness Jana von Moltke

 

[Mina]

Hergig
More properly a hunting lodge some distance from the city
​

"Ren, stop trying to spit in your damned brother's face."

A fire crackled in the hearth, warming the furs scattered across the hardwood floors. A profoundly dangerous looking chandelier of wrought iron and antler studded with a dozen rush lights gave the rest of the space a cheery glow, so long as you avoided looking up in to the thick beams overhead and the crazy shadows they cast. Thousands of disembodied, stuffed and glassy eyed animal heads peeked out from any flat surface that could take them, and a flock of moth-nibbled birds perched higher still.

Theo creaked back in her chair, boots up on the table, wine spilled around a sturdy tankard, wax softening in her hand. She glowered at the three boys tussling on a bearskin.

"He could of begged off," pouted the freckly little bastard, Berenger.

"Geroff me, Eck" Oswald growled, slapping the third boy, Eckbert, who'd been holding him down under Ren's spittle thread firmly in the nose and getting fingers up in his nostrils. This did not agree with Eck.

The Elector Countess of Hochland's feet hit the floor with a crack, followed closely by the stinging hiss of the bowstring she'd been working on as she flicked it across their backs and heads. "Rhya's tits you little savages, not on my furs! Out, out!" They scrambled to their feet and scurried, yowling and screaming more for the fun of making noise than anything. Harrying them as they fled , probably to worry the kitchen maid for scraps like a pack of hungry wolves, she had to feel a little pride. Good lads, the whole trio, decent shots, and not enough of papa in their looks to make her want their heads on pikes.

She coiled the string around her hand and settled back in to her chair. It had been a week since the last packet of correspondence and business came from town...or was it two? No...three since they'd refilled the cellar. Either way, the grousing was good, the stocks of wine still holding, and if they needed her she'd be right where she was.

Theo settled back to get to work on the rest of the dozen or so little tasks she had in preparation for the next day's hunt, and the one after that, and the one after...

 

[bookwyrm]

To the Master of the Alchemist's Guild Philip Von Hohenheim

I want results.

For centuries the people of Middenheim and the Cult of Ulric have tolerated your existence in the holiest site of Mankind, for the simple fact that your promised and sometimes delivered results.

Well, now Middenland has need of your services. What can you do to aid in the campaign against Drakwald?

Ulric Watches Over you.

Champion Konrad Von Schild, Regent of Middenland and Middenheim, Protector of the Sacred Flames of Ulric

Click to shrink...

As always your grace, the Teutogen Circle is by imperial charter to be commanded by the lords of Middenheim in the destruction of the daemonic, the unliving, and the corrupted beast as best as they are able. However the safe practice of the natural philosophies requires eternal vigilance and meticulous preparation and only those fraudulent thieves of Praag will tell you otherwise. There are many fools and mountebanks who make claim to discover the great Panacea to all ills or the universal solvent able to transform common material into the kings and queens of metals, to have granted themselves the ability to strike thunder out of thin air upon their foes or to fly upon the the vaults of the heavens all without the favor of the Gods. All of it false, either lies told by madmen or the work of black magic or of even darker devices to horrible to out to quill. There is a saying within the Guild that I believe the Lord Regent would have seen himself and know full well the validity of its observation- "there are old hedge-wizards, there are bold hedge-wizards, but there are no old bold hedge-wizards." As one might take the learned experience of Shallyan cutters and leechs on the battlefield over the academic gentleman-surgeons who read and memorize the tomes of ancient sages and never leave Middenheim, so to does the best wisdom in the practice of natural philosophy originate in the the old hedge-wizards of that saying. It would be unconscionable and a betrayal of my oaths as Guildmaster and son of the Empire to promise such reckless and wild feats as the equal to the malefic force granted to these "bray-shamans" by the stealing of souls and the heedless affliction of black witchery upon the land.

However, in a clear and dispassionate view of the time granted for the campaign and the immediate resources availed to the Guild in that time, and in the exertions the acolytes of the Guild may make unrushed and with steady hand, I believe the coming of the spring zephyr and Mitterfruhl may hold much potential in the rising of the element of Aer. Resonant processes containing the element of Aer have been known to grant the ability to speak the language of birds and see with the raven's eye many leagues beyond normal, to divine the signs of weather and the omens of the stars, and to allow the binding of lesser portions of the four winds so to obscure a host from the smell of the Beast-folk, or to ward away the poisoned darts and arrows of their kind, or to even release small storms to blind the war-herd and pummel them with its fury. I believe that in some small way this would be of benefit to the command over storm and blizzard Ulric grants his favored children?

 

[Skrevski]

@triumph8w @Rincewind @Skrevski

Ser Frederika Goldwasser, by the grace of Sigmar, Grandmaster of the Knights of Sigmar's Blood, to Ser Horst Kleiner, Grandmaster of the Templars of the Everlasting Light, to Ser Adalius Humfried Erbsenzähler, Grandmaster of the Order of the Blazing Sun, and to Ser Hermann, remaining unnamed, Grandmaster of the High and Chivalric Order of Deserved Rest; her most kind greeting.

We have very frequently been witness to your faithfulness, proven in many trials, to us and to the people, we do not doubt that you will rejoice greatly if you hear of the current endeavour being taken within the Grand County of Stirland and because we know that you especially desire to hear from us and to learn the state of this minor campaign within the Haunted Hills, we think it fitting first to tell you of this.

By Sigmar's mercy, we will see the Haunted Hills pacified for the faithful to live in without worry as we settle nearby, we will forever seek to guard the Provinces against the threats of Sylvania, we will accomplish in these lands all that Sigmar wills and the people of the country permits. There is much to gain in this campaign we are leading.

Moreover, that Sigmar may deign to make our journey prosperous and successful, we ask that you and your brethren will pray for us and will request all faithful to do the same. As we entrust this campaign to your fidelity, should it stand true.

Written and sealed by Ser Frederika Goldwasser, current Grandmaster of the Knights of Sigmar's Blood.

Click to shrink...

Greetings and Salutations Ser Frederika Goldwasser,

The Order of the Blazing Sun will be most willing to assist you in this endeavor and will send forth a detachment to join you at the appointed hour. May our arms find strength and crush our enemies before us.

Signed,

Ser Adalius Humfried Erbsenzähler, Grandmaster of the Order of the Blazing Sun​

 

[Deadly Snark]

However, in a clear and dispassionate view of the time granted for the campaign and the immediate resources availed to the Guild in that time, and in the exertions the acolytes of the Guild may make unrushed and with steady hand, I believe the coming of the spring zephyr and Mitterfruhl may hold much potential in the rising of the element of Aer. Resonant processes containing the element of Aer have been known to grant the ability to speak the language of birds and see with the raven's eye many leagues beyond normal, to divine the signs of weather and the omens of the stars, and to allow the binding of lesser portions of the four winds so to obscure a host from the smell of the Beast-folk, or to ward away the poisoned darts and arrows of their kind, or to even release small storms to blind the war-herd and pummel them with its fury. I believe that in some small way this would be of benefit to the command over storm and blizzard Ulric grants his favored children?

Click to shrink...

Begin work on your workings that would allow the army to be obscured from the Beasts. If you have the time to do it safely, also prepare the working to ward against Poisoned darts and arrows. The storm is the realm of Ulric and it will remain as such.

------------------

@ManusDomini

To the Honored Count Yjsbrant of Marienburg and the Westerlands

I write to you today in order to speak of business and trade. The Wealth of Marienburg flows through the Reik River like the finest cathayan silk, enriching all who touches it. However with Reikland in control of the majority of the Reik, it is undeniable that they have supped well and become fat on the trade and more importantly on the taxes they control.

I wish to offer you a chance to avoid some of those taxes. To sidestep the voracious Reikland Merchant Guilds.

Trade from Marienburg also flows to Middenland from the River Kristall into the Hills and Lakes of the Midden Moors region. Though not a match for the splendor of the Reik River, it is a fine region. Connected to Carroburg and the rest of Middeland through roads and smaller rivers. Away from the dangers of Drakwald forest and easily dependable. Most importantly, out of the hands of Reikland's Guilds.

A trade city build there would become a trade hub that would enrich the both of our people. Such is my offer.

May Mannan guide your ships, may Ulric protect you and the gods smile upon you.

Champion Konrad Von Schild, Regent of Middenland and Middenheim, Protector of the Sacred Flames of Ulric

Click to shrink...

 

[Dovahsith]

The DANGERS of MAGICKS most FOUL

Vile TRAITORS make DARK PACTS with the FORCES OF EVIL

The Children of Schweinwarzen are to be sacrificed to their MALEFICENT gods. Their INNOCENT SOULS twisted and infected with their MAGIC to corrupt the FAITHFUL of the EMPIRE. ROBBING the FAITHFUL of their WEALTH, OFFSPRING and IMMORTAL SOULS, these WITCHES ensnare the UNWARY and FOOLISH. Only with COURAGE and QUICK thinking were the WARRIORS OF SIGMAR informed of the EVIL in their midst. The Children were saved and the MALEFICARUM given a taste of the FIRES OF HELL.

Be on the lookout for WITCHES and HERETICS that exist among you.​

A Educational Informative Pamphlet into the Evils of Magic (and its possible connection to Ulric Worship)
Printed by Knott A. Prest and Sons​

 

[EarthScorpion]

Just Outside Wolfenburg​

Hounds howled, penning the bear in. Their barks weren't particularly loud. A jaw that could crush bone didn't need to bark loudly.

A shrill whistle echoed through the mountain valley. Three short blasts. The dogs knew what that meant, and started to shift around the bear, penning it against the rocky walls of the mountain valley.

"Your grace," the unfortunate Johan said. That earned him a truly vile glare from his duchess. "I have some concerns about your refusal to reach out to Hochland."

Astrid rolled her eyes. She cut a striking figure on her pale horse, wrapped up in heavy furs, her long skirts rolled up to the waist so she could sit aside her horse, revealing the mannish hunting leathers underneath. "Do you have to bring them up now?" she demanded. "My babies are playing with this mean big old bear."

"I am quite sorry, your grace, but I've been trying to track you down for three days now. I do not want to accuse you of avoiding me, but..." He left the sentence hanging in the air.

"I'm hunting," the grand duchess tried.

"Your grace..."

"Urgh, you are just not going to go away, are you?" Astrid sighed. "Frank, Kristen, see to my dogs and make sure none of them get hurt by that mean old bear. Now, Johan, if you must know, I don't like Theophaneia."

"Why?"

"Because at my eighth birthday party, she called me a little baby! And took some of my cake without even asking!" Astrid shook her head violently. "You can't trust someone like that. She doesn't respect us!"

The markgraf nodded understandingly. "Quite right, your grace," he agreed. And, silently, he breathed a sigh of relief that his duchess wasn't acting like this out of petty spite or some whim. No, it was a proper Ostlander grudge, held honourably and righteously. It was a reminder that at least her father's side had no chance of having... peculiar blood. "You're right, your grace," he said, more warmly. "But nevertheless, you should at least be polite to her. We cannot afford the Hochlanders taking some irrational dislike of us - or worse yet, being bought off by Kislevite gold. And while things are more peaceful now with them than they have been in years, no doubt there are elements in Hochland who are looking to steal Hugelburg from us."

"Urgh." She reached into her saddle bags. "Well, if you must, I wrote the letter," she said, passing it to him. "And another for Nordland."

"... your grace. You had already written it?"

"Yes. Obviously. I was bored yesterday."

"Then... then why go to such lengths to make a fuss?"

"Because that cake-stealing hag can't expect anything from me!" Astrid fumed.

"Ah, yes. Of course, your grace. You are much like your father."

---

@Mina

Article:

Dear Lady Hochland,

I find it strange to be writing to you like this, Theophaneia. We have not spoken in years, not since my parents sent me to study at the convent, and I wish it could have been in happier circumstances. Nevertheless, we were friends of old, and I hope that time has not tarnished the days we spent in Wolfenburg and Hergig.

With the world as it is, I hope you too will stand strong against southern leeches and the threat of Kislev to the north. We are small powers, you and I, and we must perhaps stand together lest we be gobbled up one by one by the golden-jawed beast that is Marienberg or the threat of those fat, rich southerners who know not the dangers that lurk under shadowed boughs.

Have you had word from Nordland? Jana is a good girl, though a little rash, and she wishes for us to spend more time together. Perhaps it might be wise for the three of us - lady-lieges of lonely northern states - to stand together

May the gods protect you, and you find favour in Sigmar's eye,

Grand Duchess Astrid Hilma Nina Ortud Julia Karen von Wolfenburg, Elector-Countess of Ostland, Protector of the Eastern Reaches, Hetdam of the Udoses

---

@Crilltic

Article:

Dear Lady Nordland,

Jana, I would love to see you again. It pleases me that you are finding some peace in this time of grief.

I have had a quite wonderful idea. Perhaps, in a later gathering, it might be an idea to invite Theophaneia from Hochland to also join us. She is a little older than us, it is true, but we are small fish, we and her, and we swim in similar waters. If we swam together, then the sharks of the south and Kislev might look for harder prey.

At the very least, it would not be ill that the three of us get on better.

May the gods protect you, and you find favour in Sigmar's eye,

Grand Duchess Astrid Hilma Nina Ortud Julia Karen von Wolfenburg, Elector-Countess of Ostland, Protector of the Eastern Reaches, Hetdam of the Udoses

---

@Swordomatic

He had turned and started to ride away, when she called him back. "One more thing!"

"Yes, your grace?"

"I dined with Julian von Katzen yesterday. Quite the boor, you know. He's from the Knights of the Fiery Heart, you know. There's very little going on in that mind of him. Perhaps his muscles have sapped the strength of his will. But I did mention - repeatedly, so it got through his thick skull - about how much of a problem those awful goblins of the... what was the name? The Red Spider Tribe? Led by... Gorsnuk the Spiker King. Something like that. About how much of a problem they are... and they have awful trolls, too! My babies can easily bring down a goblin, but a troll... why, there's something else! Anyway, I did ask him - as a lady, of course - to impart to his fellow knights how much of a problem this goblin warlord is becoming and how he's rampaging over the forests, et cetera, et cetera."

"You are trying to call a crusade?" he asked, surprised.

"Goodness, no. We can't afford the favours and the bribes. Those soft southerners might be able to pay for such a thing any time, but I'm stretched too thin. But I hope to hear from their Grandmaster if they really do hold true for their oaths. It's a little late in the year for them to ride north - their horses will turn their ankles on the roads, if nothing else - but perhaps in the next year, we can talk further."

 

[Rincewind]

@ChineseDrone

To his Grand Highness Francis Ludwig Von Ellinbach , Grand Count of Averland ,

While you apparently intended for your decree to only reach those Chivalric Orders dedicated to the Sigmarite faith , either error or ignorance ,
from your subordinates no doubt for surely a learned Lord of good standing such as yourself would not commit such mistake , delivered this missive to our Chapterhouse.
Thus , one of our finest brother shall participate in this tournament , not only to honour both your noble lineage and the late Grand Count Martin of Stirland , but also to defend our Goddess Verena the Just from the insult that was commited against her , for your missive which was surely written by an ignorant subject of yours implied that she was of lesser rank than that of Sigmar.
So shall our esteemed Knight shall fight to remind all of who was first in battle besides Ulric God of War during the fight against Chaos and who gave civilisation to Humanity.

Signed by the hand of Ser Horst Kleiner , Grandmaster of the Knights of the Everlasting Light , Knight of VERENA's faith



@Terran Imperium

Ser Frederika Goldwasser ,

while we would with pleasure join your holy work of ridding the lands of the Empire of the foul restless deads , our Order find itself quite far from the Haunted Hills where your campaign is to be , and we fear that we could not be of much use to it by virtue of joining too late.
Rest assured though that we will pray to Verena to grant you knowledge of truth from falsehood and to give strengh to the arm of Justice that you shall incarnate.
We also intend to grant our own help to the lands of Sylvania by going on a quest that shall hopefully take care of many horrors and give confort and help to your own Sigmarite cult .

Signed Ser Horst Kleiner , Grandmaster of the Knights of the Everlasting Light