The Whitecloak War occurred in 957 NE when the Lord Captain Commander of the Children of the Light, Pedron Niall, attempted to enlarge Whitecloak influence by invading Altara. He was opposed by Altara, Illian and Murandy. In the Battle of Soremaine, King Mattin Stepaneos was captured and ransomed by Pedron Niall. The Illianer army was almost routed by the Whitecloak army but catastrophe was averted by virtue of the valor of the Illianer Companions. Pedron Niall was eventually defeated and the Whitecloaks repelled from Altara. Tam al'Thor fought for Illian during the war.