Based on the Cygnar-Thornfall alliance in the Olgunholt league.

Dr. Arkadius muttered to himself as he trudged through the Olgunholt forest, with Targ and two War Hogs in tow. He had been contacted by Saxon Orrik regarding the upcoming conflict in these parts. "I could care less about what happens to this blasted forest, but Orrik is remotely trust-worthy. I do, after all, contact him when I offer my aid to the Skorne. I think it would be wise to at least hear what he has to say." Targ nodded in agreement, as if he knew who Saxon was.

Arkadius' destination was within sight now, a clearing within the forest. "An excellent choice of meeting venue, nobody will be able to report what happens here unless one of the parties involved were followed." Arkadius said. He knew very well the skills of the Cygnaran Rangers, but what business would they have here? Even if Rangers had followed the scientist, Arkadius would know, the War Hog sense of smell would detect them and the War Hogs would immediately charge towards their positions. As Arkadius and his entourage entered the clearing, he didn't see anybody waiting for him, but Arkadius knew this was the place. "We will wait for Orrik here. At least Johla's good with a map."

After a short period of time, Arkadius could feel his War Hogs getting agitated and excited. Someone was coming. Arkadius soon saw humanoid figures walking toward the clearing, and heard footsteps, many of which sounded armored and metallic. Saxon didn't say he was bringing friends, then again, neither did I. Arkadius grinned, if it was a fight Saxon wanted, he would surely get it. The figures emerged from the forest into the clearing, and Arkadius saw not only Orrik, but a number of Cygnaran Sword Knights. Saxon approached and the Knights stood back, a number of them drawing their swords and trembling at the sight of the War Hogs. The Knight leading them had a plumed helmet, and he immediately ordered them to stand down. "Hello, Doctor." Saxon said as he offered to shake hands with Arkadius, "Don't mind these men, they aren't here for a fight. They're here for...better reasons."

Arkadius shook hands with the former Ranger. "I began to think you weren't coming, Orrik." Saxon laughed, "You've never had to guide this many imbeciles through a dense forest." Many of the Sword Knights began to curse and sputter. Clearly these men weren't as disciplined as many others of their order. Saxon continued, "Now, onto business. As you know, this place is about to become hotly contested by almost every major power in the current wars. Cygnar however, has its hands full dealing with Point Bourne. My master has ties with the 4th Army of Cygnar, and he sees benefit in taking this place. He also sees benefit in gaining your aid in this matter." Arkadius was intrigued, who was Orrik's master? He hadn't paid attention to the Lion's Coup, he was far too deep in study at Corvis University.

"Go on." Arkadius urged. Saxon nodded approvingly, "I'd like to introduce you to Sir Arnold O'Malley, Captain of the 'Caspian Blade Guard'." Arnold stepped forward and bowed his head in greeting. "His was an order of Sword Knights based in Caspia whose training focused more on dispatching enemy soldiers than warjacks and beasts. After his order was moved out of Caspia to the 4th Army, he gained a new perspective on Cygnar's forces, and his loyalty soon shifted." Arnold began to speak, "At least I gained access to soldiers who want to shed blood rather than gears. Nevertheless, I serve the Elder now."

Arkadius immediately knew who Arnold referred to. "So Vinter's still alive, then? I guess he's responsible for more than even I know." Both Saxon and Arnold nodded. Arkadius gave the idea of allying with Vinter some thought. The possibilities of what could be gained from an allegiance to Vinter were limitless, especially if Vinter succeeded in retaking the throne. Saxon interrupted his thought, "Should you choose to ally with Vinter, Arnold and his men will aid you in the battles of Olgunholt. Obviously, in exchange you will dedicate your forces to taking the various locations of the forest. Cygnar's 4th Army will also be fighting here, and if the need arises they will be allowed to tap into your bands of Farrow." Arnold added, "That will not likely happen, Cygnar's 4th is notorious for it's hatred of non-humans."

Arkadius nodded, he saw only benefit to this alliance. Carver would have his land, and Arkadius would have Vinter's favor. "I will aid the 4th army, Saxon. However, I have a question for Sir Arnold here." Arkadius turned to Arnold, "If the 4th hates non-humans so much, I'd guess you wouldn't consider joining Lord Carver or my latest creation, Sturm and Drang in battle, would you?" Arnold shook his head, "I said the 4th Army hates them. I however, could care less, for only skill at arms makes a warrior in my eyes. I have seen Carver fight, and I would be honored to fight alongside him. I have only heard of Sturm and Drang in stories, but as long as they turn their madness towards our foes, I would join them as well."

Saxon grinned, "So we have an agreement, then. I will inform Archduke Laddermore of his allies for the battles here. Let me see your map, Arkadius, I will mark where the 4th will make their camps. When the fighting starts, make your way there. Also, should you or any of your fellow warlocks need the aid of Arnold and his men, they can he found at these camps. Now, we must depart before anyone misses us." Saxon turned to leave. Arnold bowed his head, "I look forward to joining your forces in battle, Doctor." Arnold turned and signaled his men to follow Saxon again. Many of them groaned and complained, but they obeyed.

Arkadius headed back to his laboratory. He was jovial, if he were an item in Vinter's retaking of the throne, he would be greatly rewarded. "Soon," Arkadius mused, "Soon I will have my revenge on those at Corvis University!"