[Epoch]

2055 AC

DeepHold gains ground upon Mount Grimhjall. It would take time to prepare the following siege using the narrow bridge path that connects the two cities. The Empire uses this slim opportunity to make a single strike at Aphros, with several prominent leaders captured before the battle begins.

Again, armies clash. As sunsets Jack Equisol runs sword through heart in his duel with Lirael Equisol. With this death, Logan Ackers says a prayer. The city is bathed in light and shadow, becoming a ward against deception and witchcraft, a beacon of Athelios' presence or so the civilians say. A sign of hope even as things look bleak. The strength of the growing Empire is obvious. Aphros surrenders. The city taken, banners fly. 

Aphros is reinforced into a pseudo-military state, Sabriel Equisol set as Commander of the Bastion. Logan Ackers as Warden of Athelios' blessing on the land. The city is fortified with military encampments and citizens evacuated to allow armies to march through their streets. Lirael Equisol remains trusted, sole Oracle.

Delphina's leadership sits in contention after Aemiliya's claim but the city of Dal'thala slowly becomes more of a spiritual hotspot. 


...Emperor Jokul's conquest of Meranthe ends as it began, in blood. With the main kingdoms and cities of worth under banner, the towns and growing settlements on the fringes of the Empire are seemingly forgotten. With lands united for the first time in millennium, attention set on a far more important task.

The Great War Council of 2055AC concludes with no disruption. The message of the leaders conveyed to their people simple: politics later, a singular focus on the ongoing war with the Deep now.

All that remained was the day of the battle...

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• The words and whispers of revolt from the Vassals is met with a single wordless message by the Giant Emperor. He can be seen lingering alone within the capitals of the conquered. Daring people to try and take his head. Showing them that a single misstep could mean their doom. Notably he appears far older than he was prior.
  
  
• The traitor Osian Caewynn is killed and returned to Pavonis ground, with a ritual dedicated to Nemea held somewhere during this time period. The exact details obscure.
  
  
• A memorial for the fallen will be held. The different priests and priestess' of the Empire are expected to attend, to honor sacrifice and confirm unity.
  
  
• Those that need equipment; armored gear or potions for the upcoming battles are to reach out to leaders of their own or neighboring vassal states.
  
  
• Whispers speak that the Djinn had advised the Emperor of Meranthe. Honor Duels made into a special rite, only able to be approved by the Emperor and overseen by them. No longer misused for petty bloodshed.
  
  
• Several magi are exiled, especially after the death of Yvelle Vacerayne. Rumors that witches were involved in her assassination. Details are however murky due to the timing and chaos the Empire's new war provides. For now, all that is known is that those associated or suspected association with her death are to be captured on sight.
  

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From the flowing banners to the armies that move in collaboration, the following is made obvious:

• The Lands of Meranthe - UNDER EMPIRE.
  
• Underground (Nyt'hjem) - Alliance.
  
• ANYONE ELSE - If you're not with Vdalion, you're against it.