It happened in the early hours of the morning, before even the sun had woken up. It was the day after the Festival of Life; its party goers were already packed up, intending to leave at the first sight of sunlight. Most all were dreading returning to their respective kingdoms, and resuming the war that had been lingering throughout the festival. But, as it turns out, war has found them instead - in the form of THE NORTHERN BARBARIANS. That much is clear from the insignia on their banners. Never a good sign, and not one Aura has seen for over 2000 years.
What you know now is that you’ve woken up to screaming. You step outside, just barely, and in the distance you see fire; its smoke invading your lungs. Red and black hangs from the invaders banners, the silhouette of a boar embossed on their armor. And in fact, it is you they slam to the wall — you who’s pockets they turn inside out, and beat to a pulp in their wake. And you just know that there’s no way the castle still stands for Aura now, no way any of the kingdoms’ militaries could assemble in time to soften this. Suddenly the war against magic has become infinitely more complicated, and all you can do is be happy you escaped with your life.
All those in the castle are being held prisoner, beaten regularly to submission. Most everyone will be assigned jobs and tasks in the coming days, exploited to full capability. Aura’s royal family remains unfound, though all are doubtful that will last long. And the Barbarian flag has been raised in place of Aura’s - you are now are a prisoner for as long as they say.
And in the front courtyard? For everyone to see:
The head of a pig on a stake.
**you may continue your festival starters, so long as you please tag them with “old post” or any other indicator that they are before this plot drop.
From a historical standpoint, the Barbarians are Aura’s oldest enemy. 2500 years ago, the two groups warred over the North’s right to push monarchy. It was bloody, brutal, and once it was over Aura swore to never see another battle again. It’s why they slaughter the pig at the beginning of the festival; a proverbial slap in the face to the boar the Barbarians wear. They’ve become something of an urban legend since, never showing their face until now. Why they’re here is hard to say. But it can be assumed that since you are here, participating in Aura’s festival, that you are one of them – so the Barbarians will show you the same amount of mercy as a regular Northerner. None.
THIS IS A PLOT DROP, SO IT IS NOW AN OFFICIAL ALTERATION TO OUR PLOT. WE ARE ALSO NOW OPENING UP THE ABILITY TO APPLY FOR BARBARIANS. THE PROPER APP IS UP ON THE PAGE!
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