Last Kiss Near Grussia

 Nine to Ten hours or giurs, brought them to a large city along the borders between Grussia and Eoth. One what appeared to be a swamp the city rested on a massive lake for a large rice field. Set up exactly like a port this Eothan rice production and trade city of Chattoe sat on raised platforms. Very similar to a dock this city's sections and buildings were built raised up to avoid flooding. One swinging advertisement sign advertised a copy or play of the Skywhaler's Shot being mass printed and produced on stage. According to an Eoth Mamoa, a term for warrior, Chattoe was home to rice farmers, monks, rectors, curates, shamans, sages, weavers, arcane users, enchanters, some civilized Hags. The humanoid that emerged from who knows where, not the aging women. Calling herself Josho this Eothan also mentioned that 308 or so Tireless Missionaries residing inside a Cathedral University. 

Located near the Dirone style commercial docks the Cathedral sat where the tracks entered the city. Dirone style was a more eastern style with obtuse roofs with scale shaped shingles. Most of the structures are trapezoid from the foundation, base and top. Here this city possessed enough space for convoys to move around to load or unload. Noswal knew they held no time to waste. Rather than tour or snoop around he boarded the train that sat waiting. Cyrstallo followed him to their seats in a passenger car full of Eoth Soldiers, female soldiers. Crystallo had to tuck it in and keep his charm to himself during this whole endeavor, Vanned, Toyal, and the three Uxane joined them. When asked about the cat Toyal explained that cat liked to mooch off the neighboring households in the town. It was in good hands. Over an hour went by before they moved west on the tracks. Thanks to the Quadruple Alliance these nations created a working tunnel through the mountains. Noswal slept through much of the journey until they had to stop. Just a league inside Koriv, East Koriv, a couple of Sky ships landed on the tracks. Word spread like wildfire among them with assumptions these were pirates attempting to rob the train. 

This would appear difficult as the train carried 734 infantry, 6 Eoth Beetle Tanks, 2 V9 Explorer Jeeps, 2 missile/rocket trucks, a single Red Cat Anti-Infantry Armored Car (AIAC), Molose Troop Transport, Nazdar half-track either made in Grussia, or given to them by the invaders. Twelve tanks, three small bombers, ten aircraft, 10 artillery pieces shipped from the VUVR. From other allies came 12 tanks, 3 bombers, 10 aircraft, 11 different artillery pieces. Among captured vehicles included 9 bombers, 22 aircraft, 21 tanks, and 18 artillery pieces from the Vullanese Islands. Aside from the 734 infantry men aboard this train also carried the teams needed for the artillery, tanks, the pilots, 19 stars who chose to fight, 20 targeted individuals who chose to hit the front in order to avoid certain entanglements. There were also 20 or more elitists on board as well as half a score of foreign volunteers. Despite the possible aerial advantage these pirates did not have favorable odds. 

One hundred sixty-five pirates of the infamous Drake Roost crew of 350 barred them from reaching their destination. Taking note of the tank turrets, armed soldiers, armored train cars with turret guns these pirates moved their ships off the tracks. Noswal was certain some aircraft would come over to assist. He guessed most were called to the frontlines or in reserves. From one of the ships a bleach haired female pirate in the typical attire, but with modern knee-high boots approached the train as it started up again. Wielding a white flag of truce this crew member carried no weapons on her. Five Eothans met her then escorted her over to the highest-ranking commanding officer. Chief of War Claw-Tanner who did not have any patience for this hold up. In a clear tomboyish voice, she revealed they just sent a Trove Tracker in search of a Khopesh. The Honed Khopesh of ancient Khet. It was likely they ran them over. None of the Eothans were in the mood to discuss anything or search for a corpse on the train wheels. Each one trained their weapons on this pirate. Shrinking away this female pirate returned to her crew. 

Within minutes they were on the move again with the Sky Ships going south. Another hour passed into their journey to a city in Koriv called Omoi Dake. Omoi Dake intertwined with another city called Oikakete. Although the name Koriv did not fit the people it seemed to sit well with them. No one really bothered to change the name of East Koriv back to its original name while keeping the names of their cities. These cities were the final stops for the soldiers and the team hunting down the Storm Cloud Djinn. Only getting to know some of these other Eothans for a bit they gave them quick goodbyes. Vanned's next contact was an Arcane Investigator of a Malevolent Dwarf Noble Cog work Archivist. This Dwarf sat on a cog work looking wheelchair her long coat covered everything but her black shoes, and thick long pig tailed red hair. They both just came from an Expanded Anatomy lab near a large Armillary Sphere forged in different metals. She often helped as a volunteer with key cases for identifying damage done by arcane spells. Both Investigator and Dwarf Cog work Archivist took them on a brief tour of the city. One of their offices sat near a garrison of four stables for 300 Livecraft cavalry. Some used to be a set of stables to knights, a warlord, some old king, and parts were a scout style stable. 

While going through the central part of the city they witnessed a good chase from a street where Opium was sold. One Paired Tactician acting as a constable chased a goblin pilot to a Hollow Jungle Pleasure Garden. Crystallo was told to stay put with female Dwarf, Awkealsia Lightgut who only sat in her cog work wheelchair to reach higher shelves without using ladders. Noswal raced over to this Garden of Pleasure with Investigator named Jan Sao, and Vanned. Jan Sao appeared Oriental with heavy brow, fine cut hair that was in the Vestrisian, and cultural style without the long-braided hair. His own investigator uniform gave him authority in entering the private sector. Right before they entered a large slant eyed guard known as Hu Rong covered in tattoos gave them some pieces of cloth to cover their mouths and noses. 

This Garden of Pleasure was decorated with a type of plant that made one horny. Multiple orgies want on in each room of the Hollow Pleasure Garden. In of these rooms they found a Botanist, one who studied plants, the Goblin Pilot and the Tactician on top of someone. Each one of them showed Unholy hunger for a female mage dressed in an overlapping layered dress-robe that looked to be laced when closed. The pattern made it more like a tunic armor made from fabric. She seemed to be enjoying this intercourse due to the intoxication from the plants around the room. The only one they were after was the Goblin Pilot. Noswal grabbed the sweaty legs, while Vanned grabbed the arms. This Goblin kept thrusting until they pulled him off her. Still humping the air this Goblin Pilot known as Gerx Rozenk had to be tossed in a sack. 

Once they exited the Garden of Pleasure, Lightgut cranked up the engine to her own automobile which she had parked on the other side of the street. Gerx's intoxication required for him to be tossed and left in the sack then tossed in the trunk. Lightgut did not want him messing up her seats. At the intended speed the two cities allowed Lightgut brought them to apartment complex. Next to a trade merchant warehouse this three-building apartment complex belonged to their female Dwarf Companion. Here Gerx's longboat remained locked up inside the warehouse. Noswal suspected as much about the Goblin they chased down. Yet he did not expect for the acting constable to allow them to just abduct the passed-out Goblin. Lightgut had the Goblin brought to a guest apartment for visitors in case all the inns were full. This Goblin Pilot's own sky long boat was designed to move about ground and on water. What they did not expect was for a truck to roll up to the complex and warehouse. Three armed Uxane, and the Veteran Ranger himself hopped off as it stopped. 

"Have we found our Djinn yet?" Toyal asked them, using his long rifle as a staff to lean on. 

"West Koriv. You will find a figure wearing a fancy cloak under an ugly long ocat duster. Some bowler hat rests on their head." the female Dwarf revealed to them. She seemed eager to reduce the amount of time their hunt would go on. 

Awkwalsia left Gerx with the Investigator and a tenant of hers who approached them. Some lone traveling curator for divination in arcane history who didn't really give their name. They handed a couple of keys to the Dwarf who pocketed them in a pouch on her coat. Awkwalsia pulled out another set of keys to some locks. She unlocked the boat, which required extra help from the truck driver. Although they acted as a Chauffer hired to drive a private automobile they also acted as a tow truck. Pulling the craft out of the storage slot took time as they had to steer it. More tenants came over for a ride. Today was pay day for this drive who received 2.50 Eoth Eqenes per rider. Now they were paid to chauffer a Bleacher, clothes cleaner, a textile bleacher to work. The next passenger, a Limner, portrait painter brought six of their small portraits. Another passenger was a talkative Nymph with tattoos on her arms. Watching the truck drive away with a full load made Noswal sort of regret volunteering for this manhunt. 

Whoever was joining them on this adventuring manhunt climbed on the longboat. Larger than most boats this craft possessed a small cabin, and a shallow hull. In minutes it levitated off the trailer it rested on after the Dwarf cranked it up. Cautiously she drove the craft maneuvering it above ground. It acted as any vehicle on the road thanks to a steering wheel added. Following traffic out of the city they sped their way westward. Nothing but birds flew in the skies among them. Several other craft flew in the air like this one. Two brigantine sized sky ships, five longboats that levitated lower than most, ten aircraft that flew higher among the clouds. Half the aircraft appeared Calornese, the other half looked alien. Below they spotted a flock of 293 Supply Line Cranes. 

One sign that showed they were closer to Western Koriv. Unfortunately, those Supply Cranes were shot down by East Koriv Forces who seemed to ignore them or not notice their flight. Mainly armed with one-shot bolt-action rifles, breach loaders, Nazdar Invortus 93s, the Korivs fought another Koriv army under the invader's flag. He was certain those large Supply Cranes carried Gantronese weapons to the field. Hiding under the red cover he spotted sixteen sky ships were downed along the border. Out of the corner of his eye he could tell there were more along the borders showing the extent of this conflict. In his area he could see a downed Nazdar craft that was shot decades ago during one of the conflicts between the invading factions. His own companions spotted military forces and movement. Their Dwarf pilot steered them towards the ruins of a settlement. 

Hiding behind a temple mound, church, tower ruins, a street of destroyed buildings they observed the scene. Nine dead tanks, 27 active ones, 11 halftracks, armored cars, 357 or more soldiers engaged a larger force of 846 Korivan Gnolls, Goblins, humans, Gantronese spawn over five bases, a preserved sky ship Junk along the borders. Being near fighting did not bode well for their mission. Forced to hide they used an abandoned workshop as cover. Whoever won this skirmish-battle determined whether they could get to their destination. This Storm Cloud Djinn's whereabouts. Four days passed of them watching the whole region pass between hands six times. 

Right before they were discovered the East Koriv forces drove the Gantronese slaves away. Not before killing six collaborators to the Gantronese themselves. On the fourth day a nosy scout of East Koriv almost discovered them when a horde of hooded figures and West Korivans overran the East Koriv positions. Noswal figured over a thousand or two died taking those positions. What happened next only confused everyone. It made Crystallo soil himself when they witnessed an East Koriv get hacked and torn to pieces as their guts were torn out of them. Hooded figures bearing a symbol depicting that of the Djinn eye turned against the West Koriv troops. Most wore the dirt-colored uniforms that could blend in the current surroundings. Whereas some wore the Green, Red, Yellow Tang uniform tunics or shirts over the black trousers. Nothing on their heads except the bandanas, head bands, circlets donned their heads. Confident these cultists would be taken out easily they opened up their own line of fire from the windows and openings. More than a dozen or twenty of these cultists went down to their hail of gunfire. He did not see the others fall to the Uxane who exited the large hole in the wall. Vanned and Toyal took out at least ten more attackers. Crystallo was hit in the throat from a missed shot on one of their Uxane. Their Dwarf friend Lightgut charged with a maul at a trio of cultists. Her rage allowed her to take out several more as five of their own ditched them to their fate. Noswal held his own weapon and sat down next to the dying Crystallo. He held his hand as he watched their own companions take out more of these cultists. 

"Will you, will you please kill their fat friend and end this?" A voiced commanded from above them. 

Awkwalsia did not go down without out a fight. Yet the Mauler was beaten to the ground with clubs, and rifle butts. It was her last kiss as the last blow was to her face with a fist. What was he supposed to do? He may be an Orc but the last brains of the operation, a friend, someone he called family lay dying on rubble. Thinner than most Orcs Noswal did not appear the fighting type. Noswal went into a brief Orc rage tearing up at least one cultist who entered the building. He found himself surrounded with rifles trained on him. Noswal raised his arms while Vanned, and their Uxane colleagues pressed out of there. Six Cultists grabbed Vanned, beat him to the ground to subdue him before dragging him back over. Allowing the others to go spared them extra casualties. At least Toyal's cat would see its master again is all he could think. 

Noswal exited the ruins with his arms raised and head bowed low. Three cultists grabbed him, spun him around and forced his head to face the roof of the building. Vanned;s Djinn stood with a dozen of these cultists at their side. The hood hid most of their face except their chin. In seconds the cultists placed a sack or bag of some sort over Noswal's head. Four blows to the gut knocked him out after they placed the bag over his head. Unconscious Noswal could not tell where they were being taken. Time became unknown to him as they took them to West Koriv for all he knew. Roughly forced awake with a splash of liquid Noswal found himself beound next to Vanned. Bleeding from several places Vanned could not speak. The Orc's attention went to a figure wearing a colorful cloak of purple with gold symbols lining the edges. 

"Just outside Grussia you are." this Djinn announced, pointing out in a mocking serious tone. 

"What fate will befall you here?" They continued mocking. 

"Storm Cloud Djinn, Dahoj Thule, a wanted criminal according to Eoth and Grussia I see." the Djinn rubbed Vanned's scalp then caressed his chin. Dahoj's nails looked untrimmed but clean. 

"Sparing his life would not end the hunt. As for you Orc join my army of followers. Say add another to 1,516 or so?" the Djinn offered with a stretched-out hand. 

"Make it zero followers, Thule. Aliscar is done with your playing around." a woman's voice pierced the air from behind. Moments later Dahoj's followers were cut down by assassins, and henchmen dressed in all dark red. Most of his fled while the rest found themselves cut down. Dahoj looked outraged over this. Using his powers he took down a few the woman's henchmen. 

"Limnac the Witch! Or is it Aliscar's suckling slut?" Dohaj mocked forcing a grin across his face. 

"You are in no position of power to mock me Djinn. You failed to destroy an entire settlement." the female voice drew attention to a thing of beauty in a Kimono of red and white blooming flowers on it. Witch charcoal black hair this Limnac levitated towards the Djinn shoving her exposed cleavage into his face. Out of cruelty it seemed as she made no attempt at affection. She pulled the clothing away exposing them to the shaking Djinn. 

"Kiss them. It will be your last act on this planet." she commanded Dahoj giving him the cruelest smiles. 

In such pathetic motion the Djinn opened his mouth with his tongue out. Shaking he wrapped his mouth around her nipples then kissed both her breasts. Whoever this Limnac was she pulled out a pin from her own hair. As he kept kissing them with his tongue she shanked him in the neck several times. His dark blood splattered all over the witch's exposed self and face. Cleaning herself off she turned to Nosal and smiled. 

"Well Orc do you care to join?" she offered just like the Djinn did. 

Scared for his life Noswal joined this witch's side. 

That Last Kiss Near Grussia

What did he find? A valued prize worth a fortune. In this treasure trove Graham Ballas Paggap the half Orc told him about was a Spectral Steel Bar of sword length. This Orcish Vandal, Noswal Mas Garc held this artifact in his hands. Just the tale of a Malevolent Knight. No, a Novice Knight heard malevolent whispers from this item. A prize of an artifact this made sounded intriguing. Coming from Colville city-state, now part of Grussia, Noswal Garc estimated that he'd make 760, 748, or 794 with these other finds along with the spectral steel. Gathering what he found Noswal shoved the spectral steel, Arcane statue of an arcane slug monster with maw and five arms, alien armor, gold tusk pig standing up, earrings, long pipe and amulets into a duffel bag. Those would make him ten thousand or more. Each item or artifact were what he wanted to find aside from a pile of 2,340 coins. 

What he did not want to find was another figure standing behind him. Turning around with a full duffel bag Noswal found a group of female Ministrant-Clerics of Obligation at the doorway to the vault. Sixteen angry, disappointed rector-curates of a 250-member female congregation. These women were of different body types, ages, hair color, and races. Attempting to smile made it worse for the Vandal who just destroyed vases, empty urns, broke or damaged a door and some chicken coops. Right outside was his accomplice a terraformer mage who alters terrain was either apprehended or just gone from the scene. He could not help but picture him being arrested by some lovely women with curves. Their breasts pressing against his back while they pinned him to the ground. Yet that was not the case for his accomplice. One of the older ones threatened to beat him bloody just like his accomplice outside. On the borders, the no touch borders of the Eothan Mountains rested the temple he just vandalized and attempted to rob. North of their position lay the Grussian Mountain Ranges that bordered East Koriv. 

"Are we going to clean this up? Or will we continue to ruin everything in this temple?" the leader demanded with one eye widening more than the other. She may have been a robust looking one, but she appeared Elemani in terms of background with the Forsythan birthmark over her brow. A female who was part of that ancient warrior-monster slaying race was the last thing this Orc wanted to encounter. 

"Ladies." Another voice popped up from the flanks. 

Closing his Orc eyes Noswal barely caught a glimpse of the robed leader folding her arms in disgust. He did not want to be caught in this situation. Due to his carelessness of vandalism, he found himself caught in this situation when his intentions only involved stealing. Noswal's other accomplice Crystallo of Vunnace appeared out of a room carrying a chest full of coins that were spilling out on the floor. With a big grin on his face Crystallo lifted up the chest to his own chin gave it a kiss then blew the ladies several kisses. 

"Sorry temptations-" Crystallo was grabbed by the mouth to shut him up. Crystallo the wide faced thief had a weakness, women. A failed flirt with the women who often beat him to the ground or slapped him. Dressed up as some homeless monk Crystallo's disguise made things worse. It can already be guessed these women believed he stole the robes off a wandering monk. 

Forced to give up the act Crystallo dropped the chest. Most of the contents in the chest spilled out on the floor. Noswal dropped his own load on the floor knowing it was over for them. An alarm sounded just down the road, catching everyone's attention. All the female rector curates poured outside the temple grounds. Taking advantage of this situation Noswal and Crystallo slipped out leaving the terraformer mage at the mercy of the sixteen angry female clerics. As they exited through the side passages, they found a cliff face of the mountain that wrapped around a portion of the temple. Transformed into a prison that displayed all the cells in the open the cliff face showed little hope. A total of six hundred minimus containment spells held six hundred thirteen prisoners who were now skeletons or rotting corpses. 

Unsure if they should stay, the thieving duo raced out of the perimeter of the temple. A road running along the side of the mountains connected most institutes with certain settlements. To the north of the temple they just attempted to ransack lay a university dedicated to philosophy, alchemy, biology, eurythmy, calligraphy, and recently added, audiology. Not the most exciting subjects to study. Yet they learned a few things that were found useful. Known as Bagblack University this mountain institute rested on the ridge of a wide mountain's head. Whatever was going on in that institute or university created a mess. 

A mess that required a gathered force to deal with for some reason. From the southwest a Squad Captain Duos of Eoth Rallied over nine hundred militia, warriors, and Orcs. This force came up the switchbacks and the curvy roads heavily armed with a variety of weapons. Pupils ran amuck towards many places to hide. Crystallo nudged Noswal making him look over at the female clerics in tunics and robes. Eager to prevent their demise from catching up the thieving duo joined the gathered force towards the university. While marching in force to the university they overheard 283 pupils left a Traveling Philosopher as 406 or more walking corpses outnumber them. Clearing the undead from the whole university was the easy part thanks to some new weaponry. 

What was not easy was some Bitter Blade Jackal attacking anyone who was not the Philosophy Mage. They learned how to summon this humanoid using a Tome Spell from the past. Losing me to a seven-foot tall black or brown, grey hound looking humanoid shook them a little. Clad in ancient bronze scaled armor over a tunic. Over the exposed tunic rested the ancient Usekh collar of the sand or Obelisk Gods. Armed with a Khopesh, Xiphos blade, vials of explosive material on their belt, this Jackal was able to kill or take out forty-seven. No more than seventeen shots managed to bring down the large being. 

Clearing the rest of the University they found a few settlements northeast did not favor the use of arcane. Two villages expressed distrust in arcane users. A mob of 164 townsfolk gathered over this summoning, and that divination was being taught. Watching them approach the University from the road was another religious order. Residing in their own temple a group known as the Cloaked Sirens had one of their own 394 perform a summoning in the open. In mockery of the area's distrust of arcane summoning they held a lesson of Inkling summoning from an ink blotch. 

A member of the mob, a Timberland Guide with a veteran's side arm of two Orian pistols spotted them. Known as Vanned Corres this Timberland Guide recruited the pair of them for a quest in progress. Hired to investigate clues on some storm cloud Djinn known as Dahoj Thule. He did not want to admit the information was acquired by a torturer. Extracting from a nerve racked Spawn Binder Mage the whereabouts of the Djinn's few recent locations required inhumane methods. As cruel as it was this Spawn binder mage possessed 35 creatures that appeared otherworldly. Under his breath Vanned muttered something about these creatures not being native to this world with fur, some scales or exoskeleton on the back. This Binder Mage fell out of favor after a Blade of Eoth found herself banished during a sacred excavation that ended in failure. Noswal did not know what the creatures looked like, nor the other figures Vanned mentioned. He did get a look at what this Djinn looked like in a photograph. 

Leaving the region for the northwest, Vanned led the pair of ex thieves now volunteers to another town. Known as Nevole, this settlement of 1,200 inhabitants possessed two of the Djinn, Dahoj's previous whereabouts. One previous known location was a Furrier who prepared furs, and delt in furs who had three of the Spawn Binder's creatures in taxidermic. Only one of the dead stuffed creatures met the descriptions the Timberland Guide gave them. Earning their trust wasn't easy with this Furrier known as as-Ghoull. A week ago this az-Ghoull ran into some doppelganger from another old world they never knew about until now. Az-Ghoull's safe drawer was empty of his weekly income. Through his recollection that Djinn figure could be found in Gantronese-Nazdar territories in the Aleon continent for all he knew. 

"So, what can we do to gain your trust, Furrier?" Crystallo asked the male half-goblin in the loose apron over his clothing. 

Looking up from the stitching the fur together az-Ghoull gave him a wide-eyed expression. Noswal can call that one mean glare. His goblin face held birth marks that looked like splattered spots from mud. Yet his skin was more coffee brown making the birth marks appear light in color. His attire of a durable vest open to reveal a cotton laced shirt with diagonal stripes under the apron. Noswal checked out the wool pants az-Ghoull wore. 

His own attire included a harness wrapped around a black jacket, plain shirt, baggy trousers, and pair of stolen shoes. Crystallo's own attire was a priest's robe which covered a linen shirt, dark purple, black striped sweater, studded leather pants one would usually find on a rogue or footman from past centuries. Sure these are modernizing times with electricity spreading, light bulbs, radios, automobiles, phone lines. Some or most people chose to wear certain attire, blended the past with new styles of attire. Crystallo's shoes did not match his eyebrows wide face or thin mustache. 

"Deliver a package to the blacksmith. It is the one by the Tavern and temple on Swarden Street. Read the signs, if you are educated enough. Otherwise ask one of the locals." az-Ghoul handed them a package to deliver. Crystallo picked up the bundle of furs wrapped in newspaper pamphlets. 

Vanned allowed them to deliver this package for the Furrier. Nevole's structures were arranged in the shape of a triangle of some sorts. That did not matter for them in their task except for getting through the settlement. It was difficult to spot the Eothan traditional clothing as many wore modern or new style clothing of the new era. Some did wear the caps, others the beaded shoulder belt. Both of them bumped into a few Eothans who held appearances of an Uxane, and Ottante. Others held a Korive, or Aleonese feature. When they reached the blacksmith, they found a group waiting at the door. Showing the group, they had a package to deliver allowed them entry. 

Whoever ran the blacksmith shop did not keep it in the best shape within its interior. Piles of scrap metal, tools, pieces of armor, broken tools, screws, rusted blades, cogs, anvils, barrels littered the floor. Sadly this was just the entry hallway to other rooms of the blacksmith shop. Ine one of those rooms a female blacksmith crafted a pretty set of steel armor. It appeared more like a steel-clad spirit armor some would craft once all the pieces are finely forged. On a neatly cut paper read "Suntail Hawk". It had to be the name of this set of armor as it had a tail of scales similar to a Hawk's tail. As pretty, and curvy as this half elf female blacksmith appeared with her auburn hair. Her muscles and height made her too tall for Crystallo's comfort. Dropping the package on an empty stool at a bench the sleezy thief ran out of the blacksmith shop. Noswal took a glance at her body for a few seconds as she fixed up the armor before running out. He almost had to chasse the thief down. 

"Let's get back to Vanned. Before we wind up on some lost temple altar of sacrifice in Eoth country." Noswal urged his scaredy cat companion. He maybe an Orc, but that never meant he was stupid. He was educated by an elf who passed away when he turned thirteen. Now he was an ex-thief, volunteer recruit to a track on the hunt for a wanted Djinn. Back at the Furrier-Taxidermy workshop Vanned chatted with a dark curly haired famous bard of the Southern Aleon free regions, Shanen Twell. She wore a skintight jumpsuit made from a dire mountain leopard's hide. 

This singer-bard sat down and started shooing Vanned away. She was only flirting with him. In a playful town she announced her fame did not permit him the honor of chatting it up. He was not here to purchase anything today as well. For all she could tell he was wasting the Furrier's time, and mucking up her thoughts process on a new set of lyrics. She laughed then gave him a kiss on the side of the face. Vanned motioned for them to join him in leaving the Furrier. The Timberland Guide led them over to the northern edge of Nevole. At a mountain Mead hall, and a cabin lodge they met a Grussian-Eothan Ranger. Dressed in mixed military fatigue, tucked in flannel shirt, beast hide vest with pockets for shells, bullets, knives, sturdy boots on their feet. This Ranger appeared experienced in their profession. On the Ranger's head rested a cap with the short brim meant for wearing helmets. Noswal glanced at the cabin-lodge with just two stories in height. He guessed there had to be a kitchen, den, bedroom, a guest room, storage, bathrooms, study and lounge area. Outside on the porch sat a grandfather clock, butter churn turned into a patio table, garden chair, corner chair, and a gray cat on the corner chair. 

"This is Veteran Ranger Toyal Santagos of the Eoth-Grussian Mountain's Beteran 259th. No he is more Eothan than Grussian don't let his appearance fool you. Some say he is part Koriv like myself. He knows where that Djinn last went. Before we even head out. Who is hungry and who knows how to shoot?" Vanned introduced them to Toyal who shook hands with both. Noswal was not a horrible shot, but he was not a great marksman. As for Crystallo, he spent most of his life stealing, conning, scamming, manipulating, and cheating. So, any military experience was off the charts for his experience. Yet his nimble hands, charisma, and charm would do well. 

Santagos got up to enter his own cabin lodge to return with weapons, boots, and hand radios from the invaders. At forty-five years old this Eothan, possessed five different types of pistols, five rifles from the aliens, 3 Onway Revolvers, and holsters. Crystallo declined to take any of these weapons. He tried to pass himself off as a pacifist type of individual of peace during a time of violence. Yet his wording sounded more like a bad insult. 

"Suit yourself con-man." Toyal grunted distributing the weapons between himself, Noswal and Vanned. As any host would Toyal invited them inside his two-story lodge-cabin.  Sure, many would call it a cabin, but most cabins were small like a cottage, and one story high. Behind this humble abode Toyal had a meal cooking for more than one. 

Four large Tasr Blood Mountain Pesky Cats roasted over a spit. In the back of the lodge, they ate what they could of the chewy wild meat. Toyal already invited three Uxane adventurers to take the two roasted creatures that were not eaten to their barracks. Clad in Eoth military uniforms, Nazdar-Grevaskii tan fatigues the trio would only reveal a secret involvement with the aliens. Behind the rest of Calorn's back, four nations, Vunnace, Grussia, Eoth, and East Koriv felt forced to collaborate with the Nazdar. Mostly allied against the Gantronese these four independent states formed their own Quadruple Alliance. Only three had the protection of the mountains. None of them mentioned that alliance as they ate and drank together. A secret oath made between one another in case their allies hand personnel present. 

Getting to know these three Uxane in mountains brought access to free transportation. Although they were thieves their crimes were overlooked. Yet Vanned took note of that in log and about their current status. Free transportation in the mountains was a luxury military personnel possessed. In these parts of the Eoth-Grussian-Koriv mountains most settlements lay close. Close enough to walk, which pushed the motorized transportation requirements aside unless it was along the wider roads. Towards the east they made their way to a station where a small convoy awaited. 

"We'll have to head east in order to go west. This military convoy needed to head back to the factories in Grussia. Most of the roads are paths or under construction." Vanned pointed out. 

One road was blocked by a pile of dirt and rocks from a recent landslide. A convoy of six tanks, 2 jeeps, cargo truck, half-track, anti-infantry armored car AIAC moved towards the main roads. Right along the road they passed three stone-built houses, a winery, wineshop, a gray mare resting in the grass, mountain pyramid, a tavern, pottery shop, a church to an Eastern deity, two cabins, before reaching another mountain. Heading south the convoy was led by a driver who happened to be a Mystic of the Hidden Way who took down several hotshots before they left the area. 

As they snaked down the mountains to flat ground at the mountain base, their convoy cut through a settlement. Here they had to stop at a military base for a day. At this base the convoy met a weld fast wing smith who specialized in building aircraft. In the morning they brought them coffee. This paler Eothan just watched a hired blade trip over a Sanu Sanctuary Cat last night just before the convoy arrived. Laughter spread across the base in the mess hall for a moment or two. It was a funny story to share with the base full of personnel. The commanding officer, Mayeth Zehong exited her office, entering the mess hall. Everyone stood up falling silent as if the story was never told. A female Eothan of coffee skin complexion, short body with a curvy physique that could not hide under the fatigues she wore. Nothing was exposed just her shape could still be seen. Most of the fatigues Eoth possessed came from the invaders. Some were either Nazdar, or Gantronese. Just Noswall and Crystallo could not blend in well enough as personnel. 

"Just in thuggers, Rune Claw Bear unit seized and occupied a Bawdy House outside city limits in Assumarya. Only 688 left in that battalion." Mayeth reported with a half mock tone. It sounded amusing to the unit, a whore house being used as full cover in a combat zone. She gave them permission to relax with an at ease command. 

"Hey Chief Warrior Mayeth, do you remember that one Promising Dusk Mage Warlock? The one a Vunnace Shadow Knight commando found in that bombed out university?" an Eoth Mamoa (Sergeant) sitting next to a Mountain Scout brought up to their topic. 

"You mean that same Warlock who let loose a two headed zombie of an obsessive stitcher in the modern university, Sergeant Oggles?" She asked the Eothan Mamoa warrior with cropped hair. 

"Yes, Chief Warrior." the Eothan answered with embarrassment. He was obviously checking her out. 

"His or their pet paid a deadly visit to a lightning Mauler from Norvath. Some banishment was involved over a sparring mummy incident. I don't know how we came by that information." Zehong filled in the rest of the story. 

"Do we need to start over?" another Eoth asked her. 

"Load up bugs, and maggots the front is not going to move from Koriv by itself." Zehong barked at the unit of thirty-one Eoth Soldiers. She grabbed the Eoth soldier who asked if they needed to start over. With a nefarious smile she kissed the soldier who attempted to get away before she lightly smashed his face against the table then shoved into someone else's buttocks. It was only for fun making everyone else laugh. Noswal was certain they hopped that would be the last time she kissed them, as pretty as she was. 

In silence they road down to the furthest yet closest train station in Eoth. Noswal watch out the window of a half-track with Vanned driving this time. Their own convoy passed a testing ground for military vehicles. Telling the difference between vehicles was easy for him as he did serve for a single year. One lone Ramming Ironshell Bettle Armored Tank 1.35 rammed through a target. An old shed with a brick wall reinforcing it stood little chance against the Eoth tank. Noswal leaned back in his seat to sleep off as much of the long journey. His mind went to the number of thefts he committed wondering if there would be a last kiss for him that did not involve love, or lust. 

A Letter For Help

To Whoever receives this, 

It was twenty years ago when I was only four years of age when a horde of warriors seized my uncle's castle and estates. Our forces were outnumbered a hundred to one. The fight was hopeless as noble brave knights fought and perished under the might of this powerful army. For years my people have suffered under their cruelty. Fields burned, farms torched to the ground, women such as myself have been raped viciously to no end. These men have also allowed hordes of orcs access into our lands. Every village has suffered many attacks from these fiends, yet the warrior hordes do nothing. My uncle recently died and a Hordes-man has claimed himself king over the land. These men are called the Vogards. They come from the north, pillaging their way to my kingdom. We were once a seafaring people, now not even a single ship is seen in the ports. Often when a woman gives birth to a child that infant is given to monsters and devoured. Please hurry I'm not sure how much longer we can keep living like this. I BEG YOU, whoever you are, ready your ships, rally your men and come rescue us from this nightmare.

Sincerely

          The Lady Solus of Espa

The wind blew rain into the young warrior's eyes as he read the scroll. Looking up he nodded to the War Lord and the commander shouted orders to the men at oars.  There was over a dozen ships headed east nearing a beach just miles away.

Greed in Meze-Evusian borders

 It is still the year 1836 of the Calornese year, the Castarian Conflict is ending. Coming to a close this conflict only gave the unified Kingdoms, and Nations a new member to add to a new Union. Another conflict was brewing along with another. Zegrav began making moves to seize the Islands of Nochania or Nochadia. This disrupted much of the peace they made in Vestrisia. South of Zegrav and Ottante another one kept sparking with minor skirmishes. The Evusian Empire was going through a phase where it was attempting to keep the Islands of Redrin while pushing for expansion into the Meze Island. Not exactly what he planned to happen as the two alien invaders kept moving closer to their part of the planet. Calorn wasn't exactly united as one nation, which made it easier for the invaders to conquer large swaths of territory. However, both kept going at each other's throats. It delayed the takeover of various nations who immediately started to form an alliance with any free states. On his desk sat a book called The Sky Whaler's Sorted Shot. Maxim Senator, and Premviste Argrithe Greymir sat opposite her in a politician style suit with the new nation's flag pin on the collar, his own nation's flag on his left breast, and an ascot in place of a tie. A little old fashioned, but it seemed appropriate. 

Dressed in a violet autumn style dress with gold leaves dotting it, Beatrice Cunners held some Elvish ancestry along with human. Appearing more human in the ears, and nose she still felt more elf than most would. In scientific terms of new discoveries, she would be categorized as Homo Finitimus, a humanoid neighbor. In his main office rested in Forsym New Vattoram, but they were in Claymor, New Vattoram. Along the Eastern coast of the country Claymour sat next door the newly annexed Castarian member state. Just last year this city decided to purge the profane from bitter revelation. Some mysteries or horrors needed to be hidden. How Beatrice knew had everything to do with her own profession as a professional spy. Looking up at him she wanted to ask him about that a little more. 

"Mr. um, Mr. Greymir, Premviste Greymir what happened in Claymour city concerning the purge?" She asked believing her buttocks would be tossed out of a window. 

"The Claymour Purge the papers called it. Had more to do with clearing out a cult. You see in one of the towns outside Claymour. Willowhill was a town where some cult or covenant took over. Some enthralling victors of that town signed in blood to a covenant of blood. That, we could not allow to continue any further." Greymir answered looking over at a few desk items he possessed. Row of stamp labelers, card holder organizers, a mug used as a pen holder, envelope organizer, three small portraits, quill, inkwell, stapler, stack of coins of different currencies, and a few other books. His other desk sat adjacent to his back facing the window cluttered in papers, books, maps, and one small globe. Greymir's handsome gaze caught her attention. At first, she believed he was going to order her to undress, but he did not. 

"You are an Estati am I correct? And Estati with a profession as a spy." Argrithe pointed out to the half elf half human. 

"Yes sir." She answered tugging at a part of her collar then played with a top button. Beatrice shifted in her seat keeping her composure. Looking at him up and down Beatrice did not know what to really do. Her mind went to undoing her auburn hair bun, yet he still wore his wedding ring. 

"We need a spy to act as an informant along the borders between Evusia, and Meze. Naheme doesn't exactly have the military power to face both even with the other island states. So that option is off the table. You will head to Meze for me personally and inform me once a month what goes on. One of Meze's ambassadors mentioned a conflict between 13 families who act as their own factions. It also coincides with the situation between Evusia and Redrin Isle. In other words keep me posted, informed on the events along the border. Even if it is a stampede or some local murder. Actually, push those on the side those are more local." Greymir revealed her new mission before her very eyes. Beatrice felt honored she almost go up to kiss him but chose not to. 

"Can I do this? Yes, sir I will be your eyes and ears." Beatrice responded to the orders. She stood up to give him a military salute. Argrithe smiled and chuckled. 

"Save those salutes for my brother Antalace Greymir, the Furd, well the Commander in Chief of the VUVR military." 

He stood up with a stretched-out hand. Getting up Beatrice nearly fell forward when she stretched out her hand to shake his. Her own legs became stiff from sitting down so much. Beatrice was forced to wait outside the office door getting a chance to eavesdrop on her own leader as a hobby just to learn new events. Former Officer becomes a scientist during insurgency in Nevoran Federation who joined the Castarian hold out raiders. She recalled hearing a mortician preparing the deceased for funerals, 111 corpses in one day due to a raid that was repelled when cavalry were called over. Thanks to the genericity of the VUVR's leader, her boss, Beatrice received a ride from a Chauffer to the docks. As they rode in the back, she turned around to get a good look at the buildings she left behind for the port. One former Bawdy House, Blacksmith's Master Guild, apartment complex, tall bookstore, cafe, library, trade house, and college building could be seen disappearing behind an Abbey facing a mausoleum. When they arrived at the port and docks Beatrice was sent over to meet her contact, four Orcs preparing to sail south. Greymir got out with her to ensure she was able to get passage. At a complex with a three-story tavern, craft workshop built in Greymir had her wear an ugly long coat over her dress. His own appeared more like a cloak with sleeves added to it. Towards the back they found the Orcs in a blacksmith station. Exchanging quick words with the Grogash brothers they received a full duffel bag, passport with new identity, a short sword, Main Gauche, and pair of rapiers. Not questioning the contents of the duffel bag Beatrice grabbed whatever they gave her to use for this mission. A week passed before she was picked up again from the Thieves' Guild. Her Guild Mates bid her farewell promising to keep her own room the same as she left. Forced to enter a Merchant's Guild on the opposite side of where she met the Grogash brothers Beatrice met a Captain McKee of the Daring Milani, a freighter cargo ship that made a few stops before hitting Meze-Evusia. 

Nothing really happened to her on board this ship as she made her way between the land masses that made up Vestrisia Castaria, and the cliff rimmed continent of Soverden. It had another name, but it did not matter for this mission. While prowling the interior of the ship she ran into a Galvanic Alchemist who foresees animating a faerie in a lab as Reave soul is used to capture it in a used potion flask. Their Mortar & Pestle, Retor, Alembic, Calcinator, flasks, beaker, cylinders, funnels sat pinned to the shields drilled to the walls. A small cauldron rested by his cot. McKee's own crew consisted of thirty-four Goblins, Humans, Half-Orcs, one intelligent spotted Ogre, Troglodytes, half Goblins, and Zedirians. Daring Milani's journey or voyage through this extended strait of the Screaming Hawk started smooth for a day. Towards the end of the strait, they stopped at a port called Stormville. Here he picked up a few more supplies while dropping off booze for the Drayman to deliver. With help from the Stevedores, dock workers the Milani picked up a few new passengers. Grim Wanderer Goblin Warlock and Gilt Blade Prowlers encounter a jellyfish near a shipwreck just past the mouth of the strait. Both were after a witch's cauldron they found which, weighed them down after the encounter with that sea creature and some shipwreck dowser merfolk. Due to the encroaching war in Evusian Waters McKee hired a privateer ship. Some modern era steel sloop called the Razor Maw manned by 202 Orcs, Goblins, Humans, half breeds. Since they were stopped in order to get the privateer (pirates for hire) to prepare for the journey a few more passengers joined. A Wake Dance Shaman in a silk wrap dress with a gloom pangolin pet joined the prosperous pirates as fog emerged. 

Fog in the strait slowed them down by half a day. Beatrice moved around the ship with the privateer sloop in the corner of her eye. Not sure if she really trusted these pirates who claimed to be privateers. Arriving at the ports of Meze Evusia took a little longer than expected. Stopping at an island city called Ogrims, Meze where a goblin test pilot and a reckless wizard face an executioner's swing. A grotesque sight to witness as an event. At least she was able to move around a portion of the city to get some hints of what was going on. Ogrims was where the prisoners were taken either executed or sentenced to death they still lived on this island as their home and residence. While roaming around a Bimaristan, and Mason's guild she spotted a Djinn Wizard dragged over to a Town Guard structure. One of the locals was also watching the Djinn looking wizard being taken into custody. 

"...attempted some Titanic growth self..." 

"Bah! Some Monastery Lore Master they made. Guess we'll have to visit them in the cells for a bit of knowledge..." 

"Can they bring them out sooner?" a Mezeen-Evusian asked one of them. 

Beatrice returned to the freighter with some information, Meze was locking up Lore Masters. For what reason? To remove some knowledgeable threats who still speak of the past? Did Meze still have worshippers of the old ways, old gods still lingering among the population? In her own private cabin she wrote down what she noticed on the Mezeen held island. Arriving on the very borders of Evusia, and Meze made them nervous. Even the Sloop kept its distance while holding off any fire on the ships that came to check both vessels. Right as they were about to dock a patrol boat spotted a Satyr Rambler found to be totally lost as its craft is set adrift from the Evusian coast. Beatrice did not get to see what happened to it as she was sort of herded off the boat by McKee himself. Mezeen's culture required for all women to have a chaperone when going in certain parts of the cities. In the residential districts no one is required as well as the markets. In a Bazaar's Hookah Den Captain McKee introduced Beatrice to her new contact, accomplice, and "chaperone" for the borders of Meze and Evusia. Hai ben Doran the Adventuring Translator, Smuggler, and Storyteller. Four jobs for one person can make them rich. Just for extra cover up for her own duties they hired a juggler, acrobat, Animal Handler, Dancer, and Guard Chaperone in case they lose Hai Doran. 

With a few days to relax they resided in a refurbished Hashashin Guild. Out the window Beatrice watched a thief leap from building to building while guards gave chase. Anunbah, built close to the coast stretched further inland with buildings almost the same height of two or three stories to avoid any building collapses. While watching this she rested her chin on her folded arms while leaning over the shaded balcony. It poured down on the city itself making it difficult to get a good look at these running thieves. One of them took a mighty leap to lure a door keeper into the down pour that came. All it did was get the door keeper soaked at an inn. Beatrice muffled a laugh to keep her composure. Grown women not exactly forbidden from laughing at misfortunes from others. It was just seen as immature. Certain the show was over Beatrice returned to her own quarters where her own lamp was lit. Under the name of Yarom bat Elazar she sat down thinking of Captain McKee. She did not really get to say goodbye to him when he left. At the moment she had a duty to attend to now. Making attempts to shake off the handsome sea rogue's face from her thoughts she prepared herself to begin her mission. 

Although it already began on the island prison, she still chose to eavesdrop on a few areas here and there for a few days before they rounded up a small caravan of Camels. Not finding much in the main city she moved towards a town with her chaperone. There she learned of a Dusk Legion Zealot used demolish spell on Syncopated Bane Alley Blackguard causes unfriendly fire on trusty pack beast that gathered the 336 townsfolk. Something the authorities dealt with quickly yet locked away the Blackguard's things until she showed up at the prison cell to speak with this Vullanese. 

Getting ready to take everything found on the Vullanese Beatrice finds herself cornered by a grave scrabbler who seemed eager to copulate with her. Her own bodyguard emerged from behind him ready to kill the scrabbler until two grim looking physicians appeared. Both wearing casual suits these Physicians blindly revealed they needed a specimen to watch in intercourse. Knowing full well killing these two valuable members would attract unwanted attention from authorities her chaperone pulled her away. Giving them a smile they had her cover her own face leaving the Blackguard's equipment in the hands of Mezeen guards. Hoping the authorities would keep it locked up Beatrice and her chaperone returned to their temporary headquarters. When they returned Hai Doran warned them the physicists were part of some cult or guild that enjoys certain activities. Creeping her out Beatrice packed her things to leave earlier than expected. Getting a head start on this journey would lose their momentum on the Premviste's orders. No longer than a week before moving towards the south. It would look suspicious. Most would move quickly, but this needed to be treated as a residency not a hideout. 

Once a week passed by, they were on the move with a caravan of camels blending in with another who was headed towards another settlement. The next settlement of Grazed Helm rested right on the border between Meze and Evusia. Flanked by a Caravan Stop, Caravansary, Sultan Style Racing Track, Bimaristan, Imperial Wine Storage from the Vineyards of the main Island, ruins, a mine, Grazed Helm appeared to possess a mixed culture. She did not have time to look at the culture, or the buildings due to her need to blend in. Passing through the streets they passed a Public Bath, plenty of complexes, Temples, Villas, Chapter House, one Inn, a Tavern, Market, Kilns, various shops her group stopped at a cafe. There they found some accommodations underground. It was as if Argrithe had connections all over these two countries. Using her time wisely Beatrice set up her equipment according to instructions Greymir gave to her. Near the settlement of Grazed Helm, further south, another settlement was home to Assassin Guild, and some Order of Assassins. On the side of Meze these Assassins were a lethal threat to the stability of the borders. How she was going to even remove their threat without getting acknowledge by them felt like a feat. One day later Beatrice, her accomplices, and chaperone rode to that city where they learned of 736 Lurking Deadeye Assassins of Meze anticipate Dire Fleet Hoarder's movements. This Dire Fleet Hoarder Evusia hired possessed powers of a Battle Mage. When she got this all down, she sent it over to Greymir via the couriers to the mailing system. Whatever these Assassins plotted to do it would just end up chaotic. 

Upon their return to Grazed Helm her group found a few individuals fighting. A Bitter Blood Jackal engages one Death Bellowing Kuruk right outside a Guild House built from brick, wood, and a tent. Green with hints of Evusian and Mezeen patterns this tent appeared more like an oversized tapestry or quilt. Outside the settlement these two humanoids dueled with their respective weapons. A long Khopesh Blade for the Jackal who apparently belonged to a by gone era. Beatrice could have sworn these ancient humanoids of Ottante and gone extinct. As for the Kuruk, which appeared more like a half man half bull, a Bardiche. Yes, these were modernizing times, yet plenty of fighters still chose to fight with melee weapons in case their ammunition ran short, the gun jammed, or the weapon became too hot. Each one clashed on the dirt, and oasis that sat along the perimeter. Her own entourage and others gathered to watch this spectacle of the ages in Meze. Suspicious over what these two humanoids were doing in Meze Beatrice wrote this down while her own accomplice recorded this event. Another took photos as the two clashed. Whoever wanted to watch made a circle around to see these two locked in a duel. For several minutes these two fought while several onlookers found a mound in the sand to sit on. Beatrice wasn't sure if that was a rock or some mound of debris that dried up. Eyeing it she thought she saw it move as if breathing. Whatever this mound really was it burst out of the sand flinging the onlookers off it. And adaptive snap jaw of the desert moved from its disturbed slumber scared everyone away. Even Beatrice and her own group rushed away leaving the two dueling humanoids at the mercy of this large lizard beast's mercy. They felt it's impact of seismic stomp from its powerful tail. 

Several days later Beatrice moved further south with her small team to another location known as Honan. Surrounded by Oasis circles, Oasis crescents, small mountains, wells, Caravan stops northwest, south, and west this small city witnessed a Cavalry unit of 278 or more get called over. Located on the Evusia side Honan was likely guilty of harboring a group of rebels, terrorists, a band of nineteen knights, marksman, footmen. Gathering what she could while hidden Beatrice learned of a female noble of Evusia started to poison traitors within Honan's inner council. Half of the Evusian Honan Council vied to secede from Evusia to become part of Meze. Mainly due to their culture being close to the Mezeen. Yet she saw this as a threat according to some hints she gathered. However this noble woman was long gone since sixteen soldiers chose to help her. They gave her tickets to two liners to get her own followers off the island. They somehow acquired 13 vehicles to use from donors. Beatrice could tell this would lead to a larger conflict if Evusia found out others were involved. Redrin Island was already restless for Independence. With all the gathered notes from Honan she moved quickly to another location, Il-Tarvold. Here the region witnessed a feat of resistance by 270 locals against Mezeen troops. Even though it was on Mezeen soil Il-Tarvold apparently expressed new allegiances. About 70% of the village were wounded or killed due to the fighting. Over 70% of the Mezeen force found itself decimated. Snooping around at night she found signs that a donor funded this rebellion among the Mezeen village. It haunted her to realize someone was funding their demise. At least that is what she perceived. Looking at her map she noted no other settlements could be found in the south on the Mezeen side of the island. 

Feeling pressed for time the group made it along a road towards the Evusian border. Their cover was never exposed thanks to the exchange of caravan style clothing. From Mezeen to Evusian traders. She found other hints that a conflict was more than likely brewing. Clinging mists shielded the movement of 300 Heavy Infantry of some Evusian Unit her chaperone, guide called the Brindle Boar. This unit's focus was towards the south. Not sure if she wanted to be captured by Evusian forces Beatrice pressed for the south. Along the Evusian border they made their way towards a settlement where the charging rhino stampede of 397 or more caused by the release of a mire boa snake and hungry death hood cobra brought chaos to the populaces of Evusian settlers. Culprits were likely Mezeen or someone else. It drew the attention of some Hamlett Captain who was in a unit of 451 Coalition troops station in Evusian territory. More than ten flags from ten different nations flew in the wind indicating this was an invasion intended to stop Evusian aggression. Not seeing her own nation's flag Beatrice still felt inclined to send an ambitious warning using Greymir's ink stamp insignia. With hopes this would bring Evusian forces to heel with a swift victory for coalition Beatrice raced for the southernmost tip of the island. In order to get to the nearest settlement, she had to cross over to the Mezeen side of the island. 

The port settlement of Aceden garrisoned a force of 310 guards, 200 soldiers to defend its 2,500 inhabitants. An extra force was sent over and camped out. Approaching this settlement, she estimated 317 or more Line Infantry in their own encampment. Still keeping to her disguise, she managed to slip through the streets to a VUVR embassy. The usual type of staff worked there, Humans, Goblins, Half Elves, Orc Guards, Half Orc Guards performing their duty while the Minister of Trade and Head of Tribal Affairs sat at the main office. Both requested for the force of 320 to be sent over. Dressed in the Mezeen traditional garb Minister of Trade Gazim, and Head of Tribal Affairs Hanel El-Forgbelne stood up as she entered with the escort guard. 

"Afternoon Agent Beatrice, I am Minister of Trade Gazim. It has come to our attention that Greymir sent your here to secretly gather intel on the situation along the borders between our Meze and the Evusian Empire. War may be avoidable, yet it could cost Zegrav, and Evusia dearly should they engage in further aggressive behavior." Gazim addressed the spy. His mustache made him appear more relevant to the past under his Keffiyeh cap. 

"Do I need to turn in what I have found?" She asked feeling nervous. 

"No, you do not. Along the borders that cut this island apart mountains, and veins of minerals run through the earth. Two hard metals, Yatrum a metallic sand material that can scarcely be differentiated from hard dirt sand until it is in the sunlight, and Mephlum a sparkly metal that can be used to forge the plating needed to spot ships, or planes. Mainly the civilian or trade transports." Gazim answered while the El-Forgebelne figure stood silent as a lamb. Gazim's outfit fit more a Sheikh blended with some hint of modernizing with the goatee. 

"Should I reveal there are donors to some rebellions, and bands of renegades causing trouble?" Beatrice warned them. It was obvious this was over materials, and minerals. Someone wanted to tear both nations apart. She wanted to reveal 82 donors to cause despite Meze being a neutral country. 

"That would be most helpful. We can resolve that issue from here. Thank you, Agent Beatrice. Let us pay for your journey home. 

After weeks of travelling along the borders of Evusia-Meze Beatrice knew she needed the rest badly. One long bath is what she greatly needed since it healed her body and soul. A scorching hot one is what she preferred. Saying goodbye to her companions, and chaperone the spy gathered her things. Without hesitation she pressed for the port to the designated ship to find a smiling Captain McKee waiting to bring her home. 

Humanoid Myrmidon

 Although they vary in size, backgrounds, skin color, race, or planets Myrmidons can be complex. Most are dutiful, adventurous, courteous, brave, strong, smart, quick learners. Some are gifted with perfect detailed memory, others able to solve riddles or complex puzzles. Yet each one desires a companion or partner of some sort. If one becomes a Prince, Champion, King, or some leader it is required of them to find a mate. In their blood is a type of warrior who finds themself on the battlefield. Other times when on their home world or not on call they find something they are good at or acquire new skill sets in life. 

Deadly Alliance in the Unknown Lands

 Missing a chance to see a Spinx's Disciple felt like an act of treason. Just north of the city-state of Psubib Pajibe and southeast of the Sarcagosee Mountains a team of explorers acted as part of an expedition. Each one were the type who blended in with a coalition these Calornese formed against the two invaders. For them pushing further into Unknown Lands brought them closer to the Sarcagosee Mountains. This push also left the Borvadosi Mountains behind their lines. Gantronese forces possessed some advantage on them, the terrain, soldiers, secure supply lines, on goal in mind. Due to the various alliances they made with over a dozen nations the Calornese Alliance became at odds. Despite the goal of ousting the invaders each ally had their own agenda. Malvieth wanted to keep every route open to any city states allied to the invaders who did partake. Alagen, Nahem, and Meze did not agree with allowing Evusian troops to fight. Ivodra wanted to establish some trade within the city states. Evusia saw an opportunity to set up settlements for a growing population. Ruhonthra felt obligated to direct the newly freed states towards democracy or some form of Republic with diplomacy. Tante gave the impression of keeping weapons of the locals hands. Something most of the Allies looked down on. Letting the locals have weapons gave them plenty of allies. 

Some allies stuck to the V.U.V.R. goal of removing the invaders and liberation of their planet. Lybresan, Condor, Rovantia stuck to those goals. Redrin Republic did too, except they objected to Evusians being allowed to fight the enemy. Lybresan wanted access to the raw minerals and recourses in the ground. A few commanding officers showed concern for 511 coalition personnel closest to the Gantronese lines. Talking themselves into maintaining cover their expedition made effort's to blind in with the biggest faction. The V.U.V.R. officials saw through their bullshit nodded then slapped a volunteer arm band on them. Thanks to some Uxane members and Borvadosi plenty of locals helped. A tribe or clan of mounted warriors east of their positions gave them 227 mounted fighters for cavalry. Nearby tribes and Psubib Pajibe kindly 635 warriors. The most sophisticated, technological advanced civilizations here in the mountains were Dwarves, Gnomes, some goblins other than the invaders. A few human factions had access to using their technology to create airships to bring in trade at a faster pace. In the skies they can spot at most 258 ships almost forming their own cloud above the Sarcagosee Mountains.

 Hepross the Castarian Boyar laid down a rule among the personnel to focus on pushing back the Gantronese. At least attempt to drive them away is what he would do even with his own Cavalry of 340 conscripts. Feeling outnumbered the explorers made their damn best attempt to keep their identities from the local soldiers. By creating makeshift munitions for rocket launchers, mobile ballistae, modified Gantronese weaponry along with copies of V.U.V.R. firearms. What took them by surprise after hearing about the conflict that drug this planet into a global one were Vullanese in the volunteer ranks. Plenty of Vullanese joined the fight in the Unknown Lands. Using the name Pazuzun Woodrigde, Blue Algorad attempted to speak to one known as Peregrine Griffin the Golem Artisan. One of Griffin's own 18 Vullanese were just crushed somewhere towards the southeast. Their death was brought about through undying rage of a Colossal Dreadmaw Dinosaur. Unsure what happened to the monster lizard beast the Coalition forces left this creature to the Gantronese or the Gantronese to the monster. Blue Algorad was not surprised this was the case here in the unknown. He had been to various worlds covered in jungle and full of predatory beasts. 

What surprised him was a curvy by way courier and story seeker (reporter) to arrive in this section of the front. She came to anticipate the salvage count or damage done. With little information, data, results, or such this Courier found herself harassed by several coalition soldiers. In order to resolve the situation or bring the harassment to heel, someone had to be brought in. A Dark Steel Sentinel of VUVR Bisdolan half Orc was sent over to track down a specific target among the harassers. As the Bisdolan half Orc tracked down the harassing curs their commanders sent a pair of Zedirian adjudicator cat citizens over to a settlement of 505 locals. These locals appeared distrustful towards outsiders yet sent warriors to aid them. Gantronese forces made attempts to land near their lines using three scavenging scarabs that were shot down. Replacements or reinforcements arrived to fill in for their units. Another city-state known as Anishi, a Wahote settlement sent them one Wose-Wahote Pathfinder out of 190 members. It gave them a better scout to work with who moved around the northeastern flanks. Days later they reported news about some bewitching leechcraft created a zombie problem just southeast of Sarcagos. Zombies were a plague that kept everyone on their toes. Every few years or decade a breakout occurred somewhere in this world. The most it impacted at the sometime before it even ended were between 250,000-360,000 victims. 

Listening or eavesdropping closely Algorad overheard a few small hordes emerged from the northeast. Some forces grew according to survivors of villages that were hit. One battalion's worth of coalition troops moved a portion towards Fort Pardwell. Right outside the city-state of Anishi they barred the door to the foot while the citizens prepared for the horde of zombies. Just 260 locals, 72 coalition manned the wooden fort against a horde of the zombies they heard about. Caught in the mix of this Algorad and two of his own gripped their T.M. 13 bolt action rifles, E-7 rifles. Hours went bey before this horde arrived at the gates of each. None of them got a good look at these infected. All they heard were the growls, gargling, hissing, and faint screeching. From 188 archers a few showers of arrows killed off 887 infected while the rest wiped out the rest. 

Whatever caused this horde to form it appeared weaponized. Opening the gates felt like a bad idea, but they wipe out 808 of these infected using rifles, machineguns, submachineguns, bows, and repeater rifles. Some locals armed with PF-71's, Numei Katana rifles helped fend off a second or third wave of 1,600 or more infected. Hepross' unit and Uxane cavalry hunted down the rest for a few days straight. This zombie threat caused a stir among the population creating a mob 606 or more of unruly people. Forced to deal with this unruly mob a V.U.V.R. commanding officer found a Vullanese mage to weed out the ring leaders. Three days later the mage returned with strange news about the mob. It was really caused by some other worldly outburst over food. An alien took control over the population hoping to hide it. 

Other zombie hordes attacked other positions such as a hill manned by a unit of Elves, 20 Clansmen, 20 Uxane, 45 Goblins, 30 Dwarves, 36 Knights, 60 Landwers Troopers. One thousand or more infected attacked the hill followed by another wave. Hepross rode the second wave of infected down. Yet a unit of 316 Mulzaneen caught his attention. Loosing a few arrows in their direction the Mulzaneen lured them away. Giving chase Hepross took his whole force armed with rifles. Left with no cavalry a dozen scattered units making up three thousand faced a wave of Gantronese Spawn who were chased down by the local Uxane cavalry. All he really saw were hostiles coming after them under the Gantronese banners. Two days went by with waves of hostiles and infected coming after them. Hepross returned to their side, another unit of 340 coalition troops and warbands consisting of 3,800 native warriors arrived. His own expedition lost some members in the fighting. Burying them would have to wait until they managed to even collect them. Their own 340 coalition reinforcements were elves who occupied a hill for thirteen days. Gantronese retreated as expected after another loss. What was not expected was for 348 Goblin turncoats, 6,426 Space Dark Elves to turned against the invaders. 

Over the course of five days Calornese Coalition Officers conversed with these collaborators and outerplanar aliens who switched sides overseeing the elves on the hill. Out of the six-thousand seven hundred seventy-four about 1,242 stayed put, forming an uneasy alliance. One hundred of the highest ranking and willing left for the coalition Head Quarters. Two thousand chose to mount up on any steeds or mountable creatures they found. As one large cavalry brigade went their own way. Eight hundred twenty-three voted to join the Coalition forces wherever they went. Only twenty-five chose to form their own settlement. One thousand two hundred twenty-three requested to head for the coast. Their intentions were to become sailors on merchant ships or cargo ships. As for the remaining 1,361, they turned around to attack the Gantronese on their own. 

Another week passed by with the leaders choosing to move southeast. Once permission was granted and their whole force was replaced by 3,000 or more Uxane, tribesmen, Wahote. Moving about several thousand coalition forces out of town gained the interest of an Illustrious Female Historian who pursued glory elsewhere. Algorad kept his own expedition team close by as they entered regions bordering  Wahote territory. Two days left went by in their trek towards the southeast as they entered a couple of spider nests. Deep in the jungles away from the city-state of Anishi they found the webs in the branches. It only gave it away that there were large spiders dwelling inside these jungles. One nest consisted of about 361 Mammoth Spiders that rarely ate humans. Just the larger reptilian dinosaurs, beasts, or the ones they scurry around the branches or higher ground. Managing to avoid mealtime they came across a ravine in the forest jungle. Home to 137 netcaster spider nests, this ravine cunt into the earth and jungle. 

Past the ravine and into Wahote territory they made camp. Camped by a river called their hunters gathered some cold-water snappers, 443 Sun-Crowned hunters for breakfast. What did not help was their positions came under attack. However, the enemy's force was smaller than their own. One unit of 258 Hooded assassins from Mulzan, Rhes Tarim, Novadh, Giadra, and Koriv attack the coalition forces while a day away from the Aether's muck up. It became no surprise to them as Wahote scouts tipped them off while acting as hunters. Algorad shot up three of these assassins as they burst out of the brush. Various assassin in their own unique uniforms were wiped out in minutes. He could only feel some sense of humor. 

One full year passed as coalition, local forces and turncoats found the Gantronese hard pressed on the Wahote. Plenty of vehicle battles occurred tearing up the terrain. Skirmishes turned into shootouts then spread into battles. Gantronese forces amassed enough to overwhelm the Wahote, twelve small city-states north of their main positions. Most were southeast of the Sarcagos Mountain Range. Reports came from local scouts about the Gantronese centralizing their attacks on the Wahote regions. Calculating the full forces of the Wahote, twelve-city-states, various tribes, Gnolls, and lizardmen would take forever. One high ranking commanding officer, commander, staff officer estimated 860,000 of these locals or natives would have started to meet the Gantronese threat. 

No one knew what was really going at the front except for hints. Rounding up enough troops did not take long as 2,600 Mudcrab Jeeps, 414 military troop trucks, 1,037 various tanks and armored vehicles raced over. Roughly 26,000 Coalition troops were rushed to the Wahote country. Three months of two opposing forces grinding against each other across the field. Each side kept chipping away at each other. For some time both sides kept slaughtering one unit after the other on both ends. Not intending to backstab any plans of doing something else Coalition forces held back most of their forces. Uncertain they were going to be left off the hook Algorad took his expedition team to the highest-ranking officer available. A half elf with a cropped gold brown hair under a military cap. Shuttered violet eyes, set handsomely with their sockets upon a stern serious face that saw war for decades. A stubble could be seen on his face along with an old tattoo of a flag on his neck leaving signs of burdens from past unfortunate adventures. General Hollin-Holland stood tall with his big frame he received from warfare, training, fighting, brawling, and exercise. General Hollin-Holland lost his shite when Algorad made an attempt to talk to the Commading Officer. Although he blended in, wore a uniform, he forgot to salute/ In his mind he believed he could get shot or executed. 

"What the sverx are you doing approaching an officer, a commander without saluting!?" this General Holland roared in his face. 

"I am a volunteer, General Holland, Lieutenant Pazuzun Woodridge-" Algorad was cut off by this General. A few more of his own expedition came to his side as two large Orcs in uniforms stepped towards them. 

"Go ahead and tackle that horde! All two hundred forty-six thousand Wahote Confederacy peoples are wiped out!" Holland barked at them. Taking this as orders from a superior whom they could not escape anymore, Pazuzun raced towards the front as soon as they were ready. 

Moving in with the second wave Algorad spotted 26 Tusk Apes in action. These were bulldozers designed to push tanks that were downed. Past the outposts, some forward foxholes, scattered trenches, forward camps, defense posts, defense towers they came upon the carnage that tore up the jungle terrain in places. Corpses, broken weapons, shells, destroyed vehicles, limbs, discarded weapons, helmets, blood, exposed bones, screaming wounded, scattered fires, dead animals, and craters covered large portions of the terrain before him. It painted an ugly portrait of what went on in warfare. He was not opposed to kicking the invaders off of Calorn. Smoke rose from the flames, destroyed vehicles creating a wall of black fog. Moving along a made road his unit found themselves in the after math of the Wahote's annihilation. Villages lay in ruin all over Wahote country as they moved to eliminate any remaining Gantronese forces. Plenty of scattered forces could be found in caves, dugouts, shallow foxholes, natural trenches, the brush in units no bigger than a duo, fireteam, or a squad. A group attempted to form a platoon but were wiped out immediately by Gnoll tribes who attacked both forces. Algorad had to fight off one warband of 267 Gnoll Warriors who attacked a Coalition outpost. Taking out that many Gnolls did not resolve the problem. Although the Gnolls did attack the Gantronese they went after everyone else. Even the reptilian lizardmen took the opportunity to attack humans. While on patrol his unit found themselves ambushed by these reptilians armed with spears, and stone clubs. Their claws and teeth did just as much damage. One of his fellow coalition members had his stomach ripped open causing blood to splatter all over his face and uniform. Another found his throat ripped out. It forced them to retreat to a camp with several hundred coalition forces. 

Knowing how hostile these jungles were their commanding officers in HQ planned to pull them all out in a week or two. A week or two was not fast enough even with trained locals or Uxane coming in to help. Many of the Space Elves who helped or left came to their side simply to avoid the other collaborators north of the Sarcagos.  One small unit of Lamia harass each encampment they found. Yet even they were not spared from the hostilities of Gnolls and Lizardmen. It forced them to become allies with the coalition forces who were confused. Two days later they pulled back to Borvadosi borders where they needed to resupply and replenish units. Leaving the Gantronese remaining forces to the hostile terrain of the Unknown Lands. In a briefing they were warned of Green Hags dwelling the marshlands near Borvadosi borders with the Unknown Lands. this was something the Borvadosi delt with themselves sending their finest champions, and warriors. It was relieving to hear. What was not relieving was some hot shot businessman coming in to reveal crystals were found underneath tribal areas in the Unknown Lands. Instead heeding this business proposition one young Prince from one of the Coalition Nations shove a long pistol up his butt and left his ass on the table in pain. This young handsome Prince looked more experienced in war. He grabbed up as many personnel as he could before venturing back. A week passed before he was able to gather ten thousand coalition, outlaws, pirates, soldiers, knights, warriors, former Vullanese, and former enemies. Once that force was assembled heavily armed he pressed forward with what the Coalition allowed him to have. Not knowing which member this Prince was from Algorad went ahead in the hopes of getting to the Spinx in the Sarcagos. No one else joined them it was his expedition and his alone. Forced to fight various hostiles they made it to an old ruin where they set up camp. A warband of 248 reptilians assaulted their position the next night to push them out of their revered turf. Algorad position himself at a doorway to some ruined structure along the edge. Ready to defend this position he shot a few reptilians before a spear found its way into his throat. 

Flag of Diron City-Sate

 

Diron City-State, a small kingdom made of several cities and towns grouped into a single state. Wedged between the Blackmell Mountains, the sea, Gontrella, Diron is neighbors to other states along the mountain ranges. Known for its culinary arts, music, modelling, fashion, Diron is also known for its ports, ships, various trades. 

Happy Valentine's To Any Female Viewers

 

Dimir's Informant

Next to Tranquil Cove Diron City sits next to Gontrella with Blackmell Mountains on eastern flank. Known mostly for its culinary arts, arcane, taxidermy, and winery. Going through these streets wasn't difficult as they were created wide enough for two coaches or carriages to move through abreast. As an informant they had to keep their ears open enough for eavesdropping, eyes peeled for anything suspicious while digging their nose into business. One thing they found was a Goblin nether boss starting trouble with loathsome troll as bodyguard. Apparently, a pillar field ox stew they made was dubbed or judged unworthy of a restaurant's menu. Whoever the judge was they were scared to be throttled by a hooded brawler, which is why this mess came to be in the first place. 

In response to this threat the Goblin had the loathsome troll bodyguard, or someone impale a hired poisoner with an ancestral cutlass through sadistic obsession. Gawping, nosiness, wannabe looters, onlooking were finished by the time the corpse hauler became involved after this grizzly scene. Witnessed by Griss the Aether theorist the murder was outlined with chalk, but the blood on the cobbled street did not help. No one moved the corpse leaving the authorities to do their jobs. Only thing missing was the murderer and the murder weapon itself. Whoever was found with the weapon would be either tossed in prison or be interrogated. Being called over to investigate was a civil duty a well-respected, up standing citizen could perform alongside authorities if they had at least five years of a good record. Alas an Arcane Investigator was brought over to help them. It was his second time to do this however an export was summoned over. They were involved in some form of divination when they received the summons. In the presence of an Arcane Investigator who used their powers to solve crimes and mysteries felt overwhelming. 

Right after they checked the corpse the Investigator asked the witness who saw it happen from their balcony window while sitting down in their favorite armchair. Griss the Aether did not want them to know what they were up to inside their apartment revealed to the Investigator of another witness who was chased away from the scene by one of the Goblin's goons. Gossimun verified them as Pepper Diablos, a practicing Conjurer Magician who works as a seamstress. Going to her apartment had to wait until the next day. Sitting down in a separate room to the foyer lobby to the apartment complex was Pepper Diablos, and her attorney Tiag Altrame. The attorney appeared big in terms of physique like an ogre with human like appearances in a suit. Forced to take a seat with the Arcane Investigator taking the lead, Civil Investigator Cageson studied Pepper a little in her seat. Dressed in a handmade shawl over a wool dress with braided decorations Pepper Diablos apparently brought her orange tiger cat for comfort. Around her neck was a Gwynor made watch. He favored the wooden or metal clocks since he did not have to keep up with them. In his own home he had one with a morion cabasset on it as decoration. Pepper gave her testimony to the investigators as Arcane Investigator Artemis Fowlson became a guiding voice for this hunted witness who was apparently with a Tower Worker around the same time. 

"Thank you for your time, Ms. Diablos. Who is this Tower Worker you spoke of?" Fowlson got up to leave the witness to attend to her own apartment. 

"Tad Wiad, he lives on the floor above mine. He should have more information on who is who." She replied to Fowlson's question. Getting up from her own seat she revealed more of her outfit that made her figure look cozy and warm underneath. 

Cageson noticed other things on Diablos, a bracelet of small skulls on the right wrist showing she was a bit of an awkward youth at one point. A coin purse with magical looking eye of foresight hung from her neck. In her left hand she held a weird voodoo doll made for stress relief when squeezed. She did not show the most graceful of movements when exiting the room. Fowlson poked a little at Cageson wondering what he thought. All he could think of where the real culprit was now. Noting it was only 10:00 am the day after the crime Fowlson led them to Tad Wiad's floor. Climbing two sets of stair did not bother them unless they count the sleeping half goblin sprawled on the floor with a bottle in hand. Tad Wiad's own apartment appeared decorated with small cogs, broken tools, iron nails forming the number 838 just under his apartment number, 930. Hoping to have a brief chat with Tad Wiad Cageson rapped on the door. Fowlson did not like that one bit. He squinted his eyes at him. The door swung open revealing a half human, half goblin in brown worker's overalls with pockets, tears, holes. His expression said he was not completely here mentally. Tad seemed a little intoxicated on something. Fowlson quickly shook hands introducing himself, yet he had to make the half goblin raise his hand just to make it seem like he was there. Their mission here was to get information not to arrest him for intoxication in his own home. 

"How stoned are you, Tad Wiad?" Fowlson asked him. He looked into his eyes a little closer. Cageson took one good look at him. Checking his eyes for himself Cageson recognized the enlarged pupils. Side effects of a certain drug called Homose Mortalise that gives the user or addict extra time awake. He recalled some four abusers or addicts who were wide awake for 52 hours. 

"Why can't they find a good replacement or just a replacement? Or shut down the whole store, another leak was found." Tad Wiad blurted out dropping to his knees in despair. 

"Tad we are investigators Fowlson, and Cageson. We are looking for a culprit or suspect in the murder of a culinary judge last night. Do you know anyone the judge may have misjudged or incited a conflict?" Fowlson asked the Half Goblin who seemed to be getting a little more cooperative. 

"Yeah, um Nether Boss Nexx, his ah troll bodyguard Fugir can be found near the taxidermist, or the Grand Holk transformed into an inn. Or you can check the archivist, Gendarmes Steone. Do you need any more help from me?" Tad Wiad answered blinking a few times. His head turned to their left down the hall. 

"Don't worry they found plenty of help." Fowlson replied to Tad's question as if he was someone else speaking to Tad. He lightly pushed the half goblin back into his own apartment. Closing the door the Arcane Investigator noted to himself to check on this Homose Mortalise drug. 

Cageson followed the Arcane Investigator to the archivist Steone to get some addresses and locations. At a Modern University they found Steone overwhelmed with new archives to organize blaming his work on prosperous pirates who have a Buccaneer's Bravado going on. Cageson wrote that down as something to look into after the discovery of drugs. He wasn't sure if Diablos was mentally well seeing someone like Tad Wiad. Yet it was her choice so he could not say anything. Fowlson took up the conversation with the archivist to find out where the suspects hid. While they conversed Cageson poked around the small archive. Rummaging through a mound of papers, notes, envelopes Cageson discovered what looked like a torch gauntlet that was usually found in Vullan. Either Steone aimed to burn the library or someplace to the ground or he was secretly a member of Vullan's Religious Order. Returning his focus on the conversation he heard some bits and pieces of what he wanted to hear. 

"I don't know where you can really find the Nether Boss unless you check the restored, renovated bailey keep down by the western edge of Diron. It is good you are here Investigator a lawless broker has some crimes to check on. They or she became a trail thrall to more crimes..." he rambled on about something less interesting. What did catch Cageson's own attention was the Elf Path Warden of Tajuru Hold close to the western edges of Diron. Certain they would find Fugir near the taxidermist, Georgen Blackburn, they go see an Elf Path Warden of Tajuru Hold.  Just past the western edges they found the Elf at a refurbished homestead where the taxidermy of a croconura, coastline chimera, Bone Picker bird, frilled sandwalla, silver raven, frenzied Arynx Cat Beast, Molder Beast, Rugged Highlands Rootwalla, and Gore Swine sat in the den/lobby of the Home Stead turned lodge. 

Not giving himself a name the Elf Warden pointed out the very person they were hunting down. Cageson looked at this figure seated with a Sanctuary Cat Owner known as O'mick. Realizing it was one of the culprits the pair of them were hunting down Cageson nudged Fowlson. From one of the salon rooms an Archaeomancer exited in a bathrobe, he clearly came by to unwind. As for the Cat Hovel Owner who leads a band of 175 or so they needed to be cautious with. Fowlson pointed a finger at the Archaeomancer who froze in fear at the sight of the two investigators. Unawares of the two investigators Fugir continued his conversation over a shrine to the five deities in the Bymere Country. According to the more knowledgeable Elf Path Warden two colleagues of his Gunnar and Gabrielle went over to see this shrine. Not sure if the Elf Warden was going to rat them out or not, they approached both of them. Fowlson raised a hand to cast create image. Cageson witnessed a very attractive looking exotic dancer appear before the Elf and Orc. Distracting the pair of them, Fowlson was able to catch the pair of them unawares. Ordering Cageson to arrest the Orc named Fugir Fowlson kept the image going until the Orc was completely cuffed. Fugir barely struggled as he looked more drugged than lovesick with his tongue hanging out. The elf was left mesmerized as Fowlson undid the spell to help Cageson move the Orc out of the area. When Fugir snapped out of the delusion he appeared defanged in a mental way. Going along with whatever was actually happening the Elf Warden, Dunn Raleigh got dressed. 

"Do they need to cancel sports to make them miserable?" Dunn questioned more to himself as they returned to Diron City. 

In downtown Diron City Fugir was brought to a keep turned prison house next to a siege works transformed into something else. Part of the siege works and keep were semi protected by a wall. Apparently more for decoration this wall was surrounded by modernized brick buildings, a complex, a mustering hall turned house or shop, and mason's guild. The keep itself was surrounded by a fence with barbed wires, or spikes at the top. Cageson saw a Tanachorpe Elite Skirmisher of a wandering Uxane group encrust a Seer's lantern on the Rampart Wall to a Diron Town Guard or Watchers in the Mist, someone called Bizarine. With Fugir locked up it was now time to go after that Goblin Nether Boss. For ten days they investigated some other crimes while hunting for the Nether Boss. Forced to check the outskirts, borders, outposts, border constables, Cageson and Fowlson gave up. At a Tavern Cageson liked to visit just outside Diron to escape he heard about some incident that occurred near the docks of Dimcadabel City along the eastern borders of Diron. While seating with border guards and soldiers, a Hamlet Captain brings up devious cover up about Pheres Street Band Centaurs show clear path to outnumber Defiant Ogres of 282 near the Massive Harbor the two cities shared. Part of one City-state Diron and Dimcadabel shared a Shipyard, Trading Port, Dockyard, Drydock, Steam Drydock, Naval Hospital, Commercial Docks, Basin, Global Trade Menarr, Major Fishery. Both cities did possess their own Trading Port, local fishery, Fishing Fleets, Drydocks. Whatever it was about he did not really care. Yet he heard about the street Chandler lighting candles for a woman of loveliness. Chandlers were meat for making or selling candles in cities or towns. Cageson overheard a Constable Mage did them in with arcane magic. The use of arcane griptide cleansed the gangs out of the city near the coast.

Forced to give up the chase on the Goblin Nether Boss Cageson befuddled a defiant salvager who witnessed a keening banshee at funeral rites for both sides of a family feud. Whoever this defiant salvager was they dug up another relative's grave using a terrain illusion spell. Knowing it was already resolved Cageson could not help but wonder if there were any members of a certain family who would attack the other. Cageson did not recall the other incidents, but he did recall a family member from both sides were tossed in jail. A Hecketto, and an A'vingier were tossed into the prison system. However both were sentenced to the Black Coats, and the VUVR military where both apparently mention a handsome soldier of foreign yet clansmen origins. Another day passed before he found another case to deal with. Closer to the sewers chain room/driftwood traps, a soul summoner summons/lures the drifting shade, which results in a required urgent exorcist on weld fast wing smith they brought over. For this one he brought over a guard, a scout, a priest, and an extra constable. Forced to open the solid wooden door to the sewers they went through the tunnels to find a one-way door to the portcullis that was wide open. Along the way they found some sewer blockage that needed tending to. A whole hour went by before the shade was exorcised out with some extraction spells. 

Six days later Cageson kept track of the cases round Diron. What he noticed as that some were either Vullanese sympathizers, Vullanese, Vidothrans, or Vodwanians who immigrated here, yet only a couple of Muskallans. One case involved a firmament sage going missing, which causes a soldier to raise alarm on geist snatching. It was one way to get at least 700 personnel involved to search for the missing female sage who was found at a campsite with some Gontrellans holding them hostage. This revelation would spark outrage among the population. At a meeting with the governor, district mayors, constables, high officials it was agreeing to send someone to investigate. One Timberland Guide and Blade instructor are sent on stealth mission along the borders between Diron and Gontrella. Seven days later both return to report 250 Battle Brawler Orcs fighting a unit of battlefield Soul stinger butchers from Vodwania, hired by the rebel outcasts. Others attacked the unit of Orc Brawlers bringing in 674 Dironee rebels. Just 216 to 538 that force survives according to the 98 remaining Orc Brawlers they ran into. Right along the outskirts was not where Diron's Governing Body wanted a skirmish or battle. At a third meeting each one reported something about 578 bombards being captured and used in the north. It only spelled worse fears of war with Gontrella. Someone discovered vials of dragon-fire being smuggled in using a vessel of Nescency along the coast. 

Casualties were unclear, hostile movements barely noted, weapons from Gontrella being used, illegal weapons being brought only meant war was inevitable. Mustering their strength Diron City, Dimcadabel, Domoron Mountain City of Dwarves, Haldiron Mountain (Elf), Vussaryan Dynastic, Prolux Kingdom managed to rally 5,425, 4,500 Knights and Squires, some 14,000 Infantry. Somehow a 

Prince who was adopted into a royal family brought over a force of 788 various warriors, adventurers, Muskallans, Orcs, Rangers, Rogues, Berserker Clansmen, Uxane Prowlers, Knights, Marksmen, Assassins, Battle Mages, Highwaymen, Corsairs, and Buccaneers. Mustering the strength under 25,000 Diron City-State and four others felt uneasy facing the Gontrellans in the field. As greedy, corrupt, power hungry, deceiving as the Gontrellans can be their own military can be a hit or miss. Within the span of a few weeks, they managed to rally 30, 975 Skirmishers, Clansmen Raiders, lured Vagabonds, Prowlers, bribed outlaws according to the spies. Gontrella's own transportation system consisted of plenty of railways running through their country. Ahead of time the city-states saw 22, 957 leave, 8,262 make a pact to form a militia, 7,140 decided to relax and wait it out. Among them 944 became prisoners after 1,084 pistols, rifles, revolvers, and lever action rifles were found. 

Their assault came on the 13th of the eighth month of the year resulting in minor casualties in terms of deaths. Numbers of wounded sprang up to ten thousand for the combatants. Something the Gontrellans can afford unless the VUVR enter on the hexagon alliance's behalf. Cageson was forced to move his own unit towards abandoned encampments. Here a form battle wise valor was encouraged. Diron witnessed one of their own allies uses electrify spell for victory. inside the encampments they discovered coins depicting cosmic deities, 3,070 Duffel bags full of military gear, and equipment. One unit found a wounded Illithid scrivener who lost some abilities due to artillery shrapnel tearing up its body. Among the encampments they discovered 2,074 sets of Ice Style Armor. Nothing enchanted about them just the way the armor was forged appeared like ice. Four artillery pieces from Vodwania fell into their hands along with the ammunition. 

Cageson was brought to a keep sturdy enough to use as a prison housing for this wounded Ilithid. Unsure if this monster's wounds would still allow it to control his mind Cageson summoned Fowlson who sent over a rookie Arcane Mind Control Repeller to help out. Under the protection of an oval shaped shield Cageson interrogated/interviewed this wounded Ilithid. In broken speech due to coughing fits this humanoid revealed that 23,180 become slaves as tribute and bribery to ward off the Gontrellans. Close 84 servants are also handed over as means to ward off the Gontrellans, but it did not work. Writing this down Cageson thought of all the cases he dealt with this year. Connecting the dots in his head he thought of the 155,230 known indentured servants within the eastern confines of eastern realms/blocks of Gontrella. Twenty-three days went by before they received a word about the front lines. South of their location in the world the Valde Conflict was going on according to reports. During those days of zero action those who chose or were forced to stay formed their militia of 3,865. Just a quarter of the wounded were ready for more combat. Around this time a Palatine, Dom, and Archduke of three mountain states sent 1,500 Forest Keeper Longswords, 2,458 Elf War Druids, 2,008 Ogres of Numioh Mountain to reinforce the Hexagonal Alliance. Cageson was able to speak to their leaders along with an idle Colonel. On the Forest keepers he noticed their blades were made from Meltix or Meltic, a liquid like metal that can be hardened in the right temperature. One week later the VUVR sent a force of 30,000 soldiers to boost the defenders. 

Several nights later Cageson decided to head towards the southeastern part of the coastline. Days ago, the Nazdar attacked with 128 of their own Flying Wraiths, 26 of which were shot down, and 8 of those down pilots died. That air attack was followed by an invasion by 1,473 Aquattic creatures called Aquanne Hitto who attacked both sides. Their own outposts were harassed by 490 or more Muskallans. His watch shift was given to someone else more experienced than himself. By the warehouse he found a group of figures, a few Vestrisian Guards, and a female figure in a light blue dress with a fur scarf made from a Faux Snow Panther. On her head rested a night blue knitted beret. Stepping closer to her position he noticed her seated in a retractable portable chair she brought with her. In his investigator long coat over a new modern style uniform for military volunteers Cageson gave a slight bow and nod. Vestrisia required one to give a slight bow and nod to any females of high status, high ranks, or positions within society. Calling her Senator Dimir, Cageson gave his own loyalties away in the presence of the night, the coast, and the Vestrisian Guards she brought. Reaching out inside his left pocket Cageson made a move to hand her notes within an envelope on what he found. Just as his hand reached out with the envelope her own hand reached to grab it. From the west a voice from a loudspeaker filled the night. 

"Our time has come. For 300 hundred years we prepared. We grew stronger. While you rested in your cradle of power, believing your people were safe and protected."