Stories about the unprovoked attacks on forest communes have spread like wildfire since Athendíl fell. Elysia is in shock, and fearful of these apparently alien creatures who appeared seemingly from thin air to decimate any population they encounter. Officials in various towns and across the Empire urge citizens not to panic, trying to downplay the threat by claiming that the rumours have been embellished, but fear of what the invaders might do if left unchecked has led to the forming of several groups intent on eliminating the threat.
Naysayers claim that the invaders are the long-forgotten and much-changed peoples of Anoria and that the expedition there garnered unwanted attention. The Voice of Xanth speculates that the Creator has opened a new portal deep in the forest so two of her creations can meet. The Sect of the Dragon is unusually vocal, prophesying the return of Dimitri, while the Monks of Shaddar welcome the invaders as the vengeful Arm of Xanth. Rumours have resurfaced regarding the existence of a secret, guarded portal leading to a world not of Xanth's making, and the League of Adventurers is preparing for a joint exploratory mission with the Cartographers' Guild. The already over-extended League of Protectors fronts a band of mercenary groups and representatives from law enforcement offices, intent on investigating the attacks.
Meanwhile, communes in the Sylvan Territories are shoring up their defences with help from local Therians. In a display of co-operation not seen since the Scourge and Dimitri Wars, the Anyeli factions are working together to heighten their own security against what are assumed to be advance scouts.
A call to arms has gone up in Alexandria, the staging ground for a growing army preparing for war. While the main group gathers with representatives from the Empire and the Territories to argue over who should lead and whether or not diplomacy should be tried first, a small vanguard has been sent ahead to assess the damage and locate the enemy.
Guided by a survivor of Athendíl and a cartographer, the group flies from one ruined village to another in the course of their investigation, trying to separate fact from fiction, but time is of the essence and more reports spill in almost daily of new sightings and raids.
The Investigation
This thread is a prologue of the plot proper. Feel free to roleplay the vanguard's travels and investigations! However, for plot purposes, please do not go further north than Athendíl or encounter the culprits.
Need Help?
If you have any questions, please post them as a new thread in the OOC discussion board.