The Elder Scrolls Online Conflict in Cyrodiil, Part One

The first in what will likely be many "Conflict in Cyrodiil" features has been posted to the official The Elder Scrolls Online website, with this initial entry introducing us to some of the activities we'll be doing to pass the time in the MMORPG. Exploration, towns, crafting resources, guild quests, ruins and caves, campaigns, and rewards are all on tap:
Both the Mages Guild and the Fighters Guild have interests in Cyrodiil. Assisting them in their efforts by braving the volatile area will allow you to increase your standing in each guild. You can advance in the Mages Guild and Fighters Guild in your home Alliance or in Cyrodiil.

Molag Bal is attempting to pull Tamriel into his Oblivion plane of Coldharbour using diabolical constructs called Dark Anchors. If you can defeat his minions and find a way to banish the Anchors clawing into Cyrodiil's soil, the Fighters Guild will reward you.

Long-lost books of lore are at risk as war cuts a fiery swath across Cyrodiil. The Mages Guild is determined to recover and protect as many of these tomes as possible, and you will gain their favor if you can return the priceless books.

...

If you choose to participate in the ongoing battle in Cyrodiil, you'll be awarded with Alliance Points, experience, and gold. You can use Alliance Points to purchase armor and weapons or to advance in several skill lines specific to Cyrodiil. These skill lines will allow you to become a more powerful fighter, a greater leader, or an expert in warfare.

Even though your allies can always use more troops on the battlefield, you don't have to participate in Cyrodiil to reap its rewards. Your Alliance's performance in a Campaign can earn the whole Alliance bonuses to gold and experience, boosts in combat, Alliance Points, and more.