The War of the Leaf

The war of the leaf is often cited as a prime example of the need for proper leadership within the military as well as the dangers of insulting an elf. One of the unfortunate tragedies of the Age of Foundation, it could also be classified as tragically comic.

The Conflict

Prelude

In the late Aestusum of the year 2989, the commander of the elven battalions rested beneath a large oak tree, taking a break from the arduous training regimen and the warm evening sun. As he closed his eyes to sleep, a leaf from the tree fell, and drifted down onto his upturned head. When he awoke an hour or so later, his once flawless white skin was covered in red blotches and hot sores. Fighting the urge to scratch his skin off, the commander hurriedly made his way back to the campaign tent and saw his reflection in the mirror.
Being extremely vain, even by elven standards, he screamed in horror, and immediately donned his full head helm. Storming out, he commanded his troop to tear the tree down and burn it until there was no trace of it left. As they marched towards the tree, they were met by a small band of hastily armed peasants, led by an elderly man on a horse. The man declared that he was Lord Tilrok, leader of the Free Peoples of Loren, and that the tree before them was part of his domain. The elven commander, his face still highly sore and itchy, demanded that the tree be removed and when the mob refused, he used his emergency powers to declare war on the free peoples, and thus was started the shortest war in history.

Deployment

One battalion of elven warriors slightly downhill of a few dozen peasant folk.

Outcome

The village of the Free Peoples was sacked, and their buildings were burnt to the ground. The offending tree was also immolated.

Aftermath

Upon hearing of this tragedy, other nations were appalled and demanded that the Elven Realm make reparations to those affected. The Realm responded by saying that there were no longer any affected parties, as the remainder of the villagers were now fully integrated into elven society. This resulted in trade sanctions and disapproval from diplomats from the rest of the world.

Conflict Type

War

Battlefield Type

Land

Start Date

2989

Ending Date

2989

Conflict Result

The elves were victorious, leaving few alive at the end.