From the introduction:
The half-elves of Stemton and Portsmoth have feuded for centuries. Each community believes the other bears a blood curse dating back to their ancient half-elf founders, Prince Ethelred and Princess Matilda. Any romance between the communities brings a monstrosity that dies in the womb. This would have lead to angry genocide long ago were it not for the guardians-- Stemton's animal defenders and Portsmoth's automatons-- which appear to defend their community. But now, Portsmoth marches, and Stemton's guardians are absent!
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Days ago, a decrepit Ethelred reappeared, ushering terror! Claiming Lichdom, he demanded Portsmoth destroy the taint of the Stemton. Those who refused to join him were killed or retreated. Ethelred lead his army of zealots and automatons to Stemton, and now he uses powerful magic to assault the psyche of its residents-- a drum that evokes the worst nightmares of the besieged.
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Stemton's fate lies in your hands!