I arrive upon the icy tundra plains of the Shatul Range to find a stronghold in a state of dismay and disarray. The clan’s chief lies stricken upon his deathbed, fatally wounded defending his people from a vicious giant. Usually the clan’s warriors would keep the giants and other wild beasts at bay, but having suffered great loses of late to Winterborn raids, the chief was forced to take up the mantle himself to protect his hunters and farmers, only to find himself betrayed by old age.

The King of Orsimium had suspected disloyalty behind the reason why the Shatul clan had not sent the food that had been promised to help feed his flowering city. Kurog however sees conspiracy behind every failure and contradiction, when perhaps what he truly should be worried about are those who tell him just what he wants to hear.

The chiefs eventual death leaves two candidates vying for succession, one considered strong of body but weak of will, whilst the other, hiding behind a mask, turns out to be Chief’s daughter Ushruka, returning from exile.

Traditionalists will tell you that Orcs will never follow a female, even though throughout the history of men and mer Queens have proven themselves the equal of Kings; though in truth to be considered just equal they have often had to be better. Sure, there will be some of a stubborn age who may bulk at the idea of a female clan chief, but if they want meat upon the tables through the coming winter then they had best quickly get used to the idea.

And as for those Chief’s joining the upcoming King’s moot who would vocally oppose Ushruka’s reign, I would strongly advise them to do it from a distance.

S.K