Battle at Sea Chapter

Triremes, Bireme-Longboats, Outriggers mixed with Triremes, and Galley/Currachs formed the arsenal of the Veek Naval Fleets. Sadly there were only a handful of each type of vessel. Captain Goldis stood at the bow of his own Bireme/Longboat with General Apkis next to him holding his helmet near his hip. He knew he should be leading the Crowsian fleets, since he did represent the Crowsians as well, except his uncle ruled that he was to fight with the Veek Hoplites instead. Apkis shared the same heritage, but had to fight for the Veeks. From what he was told the General was raised to be a Veek not a Crowsian despite his heritage.

“The odds do not favor us do they, General Apkis?” he turned to the experienced soldier and leader who donned his helmet ready to engage the Cren Order, whereas other vessels already engaged them at the reefs. That was only to stall them and give the representatives time to meet and discuss terms of their new alliances.

“There is nothing the Cren Order can do to crush us here, they have lost plenty of ships to the reefs and the stupidity of their Captains and Admirals.” Apkis said in a cynical tone. He watched the Crowsians leave the battlefield at the reefs as the Cren Order tried to mobilize.

Arrows and fiery projectiles are launched on the Cren Order as they try to mobilize thirteen ships are set ablaze as they give chase to the Crowsian War Galleys, and Dromons evade an frontal assault against the much larger force of War Galleys. Goldis had no doubt they were manned by Goblins, Ipama, Demons, and powered by Ogres who have tremendous strength that gives Cren Galleys great speed over their enemies. He turned to his right and saw the Angoths were mobilizing as well with Long ships/Hulks, Heavier Outriggers, Currach-Cogs, and Dragon Boats. He counted forty vessels with scores of warriors aboard each one with crew enough to man them during battle and help the warriors.

Goldis spotted their own vessels, which numbered thirty. Thirty vessels crafted for warfare and carrying cargo at the same time. It was not uncommon for the Veeks to have crafts of warfare carrying goods across the ocean to Crowsian or colonial ports. He remembered a story about the Angoth Champion named Leothrad who was aboard a Veek Trireme/Outrigger that went into Makool territory by mistake. Its cargo was citizens and Angoth Warriors travelling to a Crowsian State. The warriors were on a trade business to an Isseult colony on a mountainous island in a northern continent of endless winter.

“It would be wise to wait for our allies to gather before making our move before it becomes dark.” Apkis whispered in his ear. Goldis’ uncle gave instructions to the General not to appear in charge of the fleet despite Goldis’ inexperience with commanding fleets let alone Hoplite units in the field. He was fortunate that all the Hoplites and Crew members knew that and went along with his orders even though they were commands from Apkis. Apkis commanded the units Goldis was in during the recent conflicts with the Makool which ended a month ago. Now he was supervising the young Captain Goldis with his own unit aboard the fleet that was sent out by the Triangle Brotherhood Courts.

Goldis looked out at the Cren Order formations watching the vessels take their positions in attack mode. He feels Apkis’ gaze looking over his shoulder observing what the young leader must face in the battle over the reefs of Kruskor Island.

“Apkis, should we begin our formations for battle, I feel it is ripe to do so?” he whispered to the General behind him who was well aware of the situation unfolding before them.

Apkis told Goldis to order the fleet into battle formation forming a wide spear tip. Goldis turns and looks at the flagger and yells. “Order the fleet to take their battle positions have all Captains form the spearhead formation!” Goldis looked to his left as the flagger waved two flags in three different ways. The ships moved around and formed the formation they were given to form. He heard the drums betting as the oars maneuvered the vessels to the positions their Commanders gave them.

There was enough room for another vessel to slip through the first line except there was another line of ships behind the first. His ship rowed up to form the very tip of the spear as the Veek vessels prepared to fight the Cren Order.

Goldis observed the formations of the enemy and noticed a group of them were headed this way. He looked at the flag and saw a skull on a black field. “Goblins, those ships are packed with Goblins.” He observed watching the vessels charge towards them.

“How many do you count?” Apkis asked.

“I see seventy-five ships and fourteen of them in a line. They are making a square formation.” Goldis observing feeling sweat roll down the back of this neck.

“This isn’t your first battle, you can handle them. These are just simple raiders from the abandoned isles to the south. Order your ships to load their weapons!” Apkis commanded.

Goldis turns his head again and tells his ships to load their ballistae and scorpions attached to the bows, and decks of the ships. Each one had enough to fight three galleys at a time and still win against three to one odds even if they were boarded. As he turned to see the Goblin Galleys race toward their ships another vessel caught his eye.

Leothrad’s vessel rushed to join the Angoths as the battle resumed. “What is he doing here? Shouldn’t he be escorting the Etrasisans to the Brotherhood?”

“It appears that he decided to board them on the other vessel, after all it is under the protection of Veeks, Crowsians and Angoths.” Apkis shrugged as another vessel joined their formation. It was an Irkan Longboat armed with two scorpions traded from the Veeks during the days of the Makool conflicts.

“Thank you for supervising me Apkis, but I can take it from here.” He muttered to the General as the Goblins came within an arrow’s reach of them. They seemed to be coming in fast from what the Veeks could tell. Goldis knew the galleys were being rowed by Ogres at the oars.

“By your lead Commander Goldis, order your fleet. It is yours to command.” He heard Apkis step back allowing him to take command.

“Ballistae are your missiles ready?” Goldis yelled.

“Aye Commander!” the crews yelled back.

Goldis stood at the bow watching the Goblins get within firing range as their oars slowed down. Apkis drew his Xiphos ready to be boarded. Goldis turned to him and barked an order. “Apkis, summon the Hoplites and Marines, get them up here.” Apkis rushed down to the lower decks to retrieve the Hoplites and Marines waiting below them.

“Sailors and Marines on deck fire your weapons!” Goldis hollered loud enough that the other ships heard him and fired their ballistae on the Goblin infested Galleys. He watched as the ballistae fired their projectiles on the encroaching Cren Warships. Four projectiles tore into the hull of the first one as others succumbed to damage on the decks. Other Veek vessels reloaded quickly and fired another round into the same targets. Five vessels sank as another slowly went down from the first four hits to the hull and the decks.

Goldis raised his sword arm and ordered for another volley to be fired. His vessel had cocked the ballistae and fired another volley into the Cren warships. Other vessels did the same thing bringing more vessels to ocean’s floor. The volleys of projectiles took their toll on the charging galleys sending ten to watery graves and three running away. Only seven vessels remained foolish enough to continue the frontal assault. Apkis came up with the Hoplites and the rest of the Marines.

“What took you?” Goldis asked.

“I had to arouse the men first and get them ready!” Apkis explained.

“Make sure they sleep in their armor next time this happens!” Goldis growled.

Apkis nodded and turned to prep the Hoplites to be boarded by the enemy. The three galleys that ran away were now turning back around to join the other vessels. It was a slow time before the galleys could reach them or so it felt at the feeling of battle swept over Goldis. He remembered his first sea battle against the Makool aboard vessels that were revived from their watery graves in the depths of the Verisian Ocean south of New Angothia. There he fought Makool who outnumbered them ten to one. That battle lasted for four days without so much as an hour of rest for the Marines and Hoplites who had to burn the vessels in order to keep them from resurfacing again with more Makool. At that age Goldis was just learning about the Makool and how they fought. Most tried outnumbering you so they could surround you.

Goldis came back to the present and discovered the Goblins were within boarding distance of their vessels. They had proceeded with the attempt to board the Veek vessels for they had more goblins packed on the decks. Goldis turns to make another quick command. “Oder signal ships in the back rows to break formations and swing around the Goblins!” Goldis yelled as the Goblins swung from their own vessels to theirs. He saw scores of them armed with sabers, axes, war picks, and sickle axes board the Atheyan, the flag ship of the Veek fleet he commanded in this battle. Goldis drew his sword as ten of them landed in front of him. He struck the first one as it landed then cut the line as it fell back. Another Goblin swung at him, but Apkis caught the blow and killed the assailant. Goldis attacked a third one as the rest were cut down by Apkis and Hoplites who came to his aid. More Goblins swung down and landed behind them caught in a trap on board the very vessel they had boarded.

None of the Goblins seemed to have a chance against the well trained Hoplites who cut them down as though they came unarmed to the battle. One would have suggested not wearing armor at all considering how easily the Goblins fell to the Xiphos and Spears of the Veek Hoplites. Another score of Goblins swing from other vessels and boards them as another wave from the other vessel boards them. Goldis glanced around seeing half of the first line of ships was boarded by scores of Goblins. He even glimpsed the Galley Currachs coming around from the back engaging other Goblin vessels who were hit with the rams of their vessels and slowly sunk.

Even as the vessels sunk the Goblins still swung and climbed from theirs to the Veeks’ vessels. Goldis returned to the battle aboard the Atheyan fighting two or three Goblins at a time. These Goblins seemed more of a challenge and bigger than the ones who made up the first wave. Apkis and other Hoplites dueled against two Goblins at a time blocking blows with shield and Xiphos. Others used the spear on one and bashed the second into the side of the ship or into other Goblins. Goldis killed one of his attackers as the other two were beheaded and speared by four Hoplites. The battle was resuming as Goblin Galleys maneuvered in between the Veek lines. They still had some Goblins aboard their vessels as other vessels came around.

Four Bireme-Longboats attack the Goblins as they come around to attack them. Goldis’ strategy and quick commands entrapped the Goblin vessels in a cage manoeuver. They have two ships flanked at a time in between each vessel. Marines and Archers begin firing arrows at the sails and the Goblins. Goldis watches as arrows fly all around them hitting the Goblins on the decks many are hit as most duck down or run for cover in the lower decks. He witnesses the destruction of one Galley that is rammed by four Veek Biremes. It immediately sinks as it crushed by the heavier vessels, which also sustain damage from the impact.

“Apkis are there any that escaped our trap?” Goldis looked around as smoke engulfed the area from the fires on the enemy sails. Some Goblin Galleys had to be boarded and the entire crew killed as the battle raged on within the caged maneuver.

“I believe so Commander Goldis.” Apkis said gulping nervously about the honest answer. He had the expression of regret on his face after telling Goldis the truth.

“Where, where are they?” Goldis demanded as he looked around seeing nothing but smoke from burning ships, galleys sinking and the Veek Marines boarding the Cren Vessels in return to the Goblins attempts. Goldis could not see the one that got away since his own ship was in the center of the battle that continued down to the last Cren Galley caught in the trap as two others escaped. 

Commando Part 26

At this outpost was a dock large enough for six to eight vessels. It appeared the path through the swamp and river was too narrow for larger craft to go any further. This dock seemed large enough for vessels such as sloops, large gunboats, and xebecs. Whoever was at the helm had to move around two vessels already docked at this miniature port connected to the outpost.

Maurice watched them move closer to the vessels which caught his attention. These two vessels he saw docked here were a Gantronese gunboat possible stolen or seized while the Gantronese were in retreat, and a large swamp boat. The gunboat had the paint job of the Tsubib Pajibe markings indicating it was stolen. This other craft the large swamp boat had some symbol he did not recognize. It reminded him of the Caligari Syndicate and the insignia all its goons, and thugs carried with them.

Their yacht had to be parallel parked to let their steeds get off with ease. Maphai stepped off the yacht to see if some of them could stay here. She went over to speak with one of the guards. The mercenary leader seemed to haggle and bargain with the guard. Maphai intended to keep people here at the outpost so they could prevent the yacht from being stolen and seized by other traveling groups. To her it seemed likely their craft would be stolen while they were gone.

Maurice watched the mercenary leader on the dock wondering if this would work out. He recalled the others in his mind when Brittany came to his side. Behind him were Amonif and Hilastes chatting to each other with small talk. Eyanosa, Oraceth, and Taregan tended to their cat steeds. He figured those three were preparing their steeds for today's journey. The commando could hear Ordoz, and Cagan cleaning the sundeck while Nanim hooked the mooring lines to the dock.

He kept watching Maphai on the dock with Brittany, Amonif, and Hilastes waiting for her to be done. In moments the other mercenaries were done with their own tasks. They soon joined the sarcagosee at the bow of the yacht. Vylinsis came up to Maurice's side. She leaned over the railing watching and waiting for Maphai to reach an agreement with this Tsubib Pajibe guard. The demon winged humanoid placed a hand on Maurice. He hardly noticed as he was too focused on their mission to reach Tsubib Pajibe city. Vylinsis said something to him about Viyamor's ambitions. She suggested he stay in the comforts of his cabin. This set Brittany off who turned on Vylinsis.

The mercenary closed her eyes and turned away to move from him. Maurice shot Brittany an angry look saying she would stay at the yacht with whoever was not going to Tsubib Pajibe. This Red Heart shrunk a little realizing she took the suggestion too seriously and exaggerated a little. He couldn't believe this, they had other issues and tasks to deal with. There was no time or room for acting like a girl who wants a slut to leave her interest alone. As a leader of their group Maurice had zero tolerance for this behavior and reaction.

When Maphai returned to the yacht both groups met up in the sundeck. Here the leaders decided who would leave with them and who was staying with the yacht. Brittany was ordered to stay put in front of the entire group this time. She sat on a cushioned seat with a distraught face knowing she pissed off Maurice. She was immediately sent back to her cabin until whoever was left in charge would summon her. The two leaders looked at their crews wondering who should stay and who should go on to Tsubib Pajibe. Amonif and Hilastes were chosen to have Maurice's back since they had Mommy Gluton's goons coming after them. Taregan was chosen to stay put and tend to the steeds they wouldn't be taking. He was also to lend a hand with the yacht or anything the mercenary crew needed help with. Eyanosa and Oraceth were selected to go with Maurice since they were needed for hunting, keeping the steeds calm, and to find any tracks through the jungles or swampland. As for the mercenaries most of them stay put to maintain the yacht. Maphai and Nanim decided to go since they knew the region, cities, and tribes better. Ordoz was selected to stay to keep the yacht working and clean. Cagan and Vylinsis were assigned for patrol duty. Maurice thought it was a better punishment for Brittany since she needed to calm down and get to know Vylinsis better.

Once it was clear on who would stay and who would go the groups split up to attend to their own tasks. Those who were going went straight for their cabins, and those who stayed went to the tasks they were assigned. Oroceth, Eyanosa, and Taregan prepared the steeds for travel before getting their equipment, the mercenaries set out to their cabins or assigned work. Maurice returned to his cabin where he found Brittany laying on the bunk with her face towards the wall. Ignoring her Maurice grabbed what he needed including the prizes he collected and the dog tags. He slung his polearm sword over his shoulder and head letting it hang on his back. Before he left Maurice gently squeezed her arm. The Red Heart lay motionless as if she was asleep.

Maurice made his way to the sundeck where he met with Maphai and those they were taking with them. When everyone checked in they went to the steeds and chose which ones they would take. Since the two mercenaries did not know how to ride one they took five steeds. There wasn't much time for them to teach the mercenaries how to ride the Jumbo Cat. When they got the steeds onto the docks they mounted to ride on the road. Maphai got on the back of Maurice's steed so she could give directions. Nanim got one of the steeds behind with Oroceth. The moment everyone was mounted on their steed the group set off on the docks. They passed the guards who eyed them and watched with suspicions towards the strange convoy proceeding through their outpost.

As they past the outpost and onto the road the troop of warriors and mercenaries traveled at a slowed trot. Passing through the outpost they found the road to be same as the road between the villages of Voge and here. Only this road was more well constructed and kept in better condition. Each plank was either kept in esteemed condition or these Tsubib Pajibe people constantly maintained the road. There was evidence of replaced boards and coating on some parts with the use of materials from more advanced modern states. Maurice still could not believe there was a road system like this in the Unknown Lands. After spending years in the southern and eastern parts he hardly came upon roads this well put together other than the mountain roads the Dwarfs created.

The wooden road sat on the ground as it seemed to veer away from the waters. As they progressed further on the road they came upon more dryer land. There was less and less murky water, mud, muck, and wet marshland as this road took them away from the swamp river. For several miles they took this road which started to transform with each mile covered. It began to completely change as they progressed further down the road. A couple of miles on this road transformed the planks into beams placed in the earth to forge a path showing they came upon more dry earth compared to the marshy, and muddy earth of the swampy marshlands. Even the beam forged path began to transform with flat stone slabs filling in the gaps eventually formed the main road. It only evident they had come upon more solid ground. Even the swampland became less and less as they ran into more temperament jungles.

With every mile covered they ran into less swamps and marshlands and more the jungles similar to those directly north of the swamps. Every few miles or so they passed native totems with decorative carvings and land marks. A few villages connected to the road could not be missed as well as a few isolated huts and shacks. The road snaked through the landscape and jungles with countless turns, and sharp curves that passed some wet and muddy spots or clearings. After traversing twenty miles the group camped out in a small clearing where an abandoned hut sat with nothing inside it. At dawn they woke up and proceeded further on this road after morning meals. For several miles the small convoy kept at the slow pace due to the snake like path of the road. It felt like constant switchbacks you had to take on the mountains to either get down or climb up the mountains.

His gaze went to the sides of the road seeing the trees and leaves cover the area like any jungle would. As he looked past the trees he could see parts of the road they had already taken and parts they had yet to traverse past some turns and curves. Even though the road was still on dry parts he still caught glimpses of patches of marshland, mud, and ponds. Among the trees they passed more villages, clearings, and totems situated along the side of the roads. Some villagers eyed them suspiciously whereas the rest just ignored them like they were invisible or just everyday travelers. Maurice did catch a glimpse of other paths straying from the road or cut through clearings and villages. When they came past a thick looking tree they came to a large clearing in the jungles. In the center of this clearing stood a massive totem constructed from pieces and slabs of stone carved to form the shape of the totem. At its base were two large hollowed out holes with the road cutting through them. It appeared to be abandoned until he saw one Tsubib Pajibe come out of the bushes. Their attention was torn away by the sounds of fighting to the right.

On the right flanks of the totem and the road they caught glimpses of a skirmish going on between Tsubib Pajibe Militia and some tribesmen. It took place within the jungles and partially in the clearing itself. Maurice stopped to watch and see if they needed to intervene when Maphai pointed out those tribesmen belonged to the Guutso tribes. According to the leader these Guutso tribes were often at war with the Tsubib Pajibe city state as well as other tribes. The commando watched with intrigue letting his steed do the walking as his gaze focused more on these Guutso warriors. Each warrior was naked with purple tattoos and body paint all over their bodies. Not one had the same type of designs on their bodies or the same hair styles, except for bones tied in their hair. They were armed with war clubs, spears, some bows, and javelins whereas the Tsubib Pajibe militia were armed with rifles, bolt action and lever.

Maphai tore his gaze away from this skirmish urging him to press on further before it was dark. Heeding the mercenary leader the commando whipped the reins lightly on his steed. The large cat went into full gallop down the road and through this totem as a dozen more militia poured into the skirmish. Without knowing who the victor was the convoy of sarcagosee and mercenaries road upon five jumbo cats deeper into what appeared to be territory of the Tsubib Pajibe city state. From the large totem which was also an outpost the group proceeded along the road passing more structures which seemed to hide well behind trees along the road. At full gallop their steeds carried them on the road which became more straight as they passed dozens of structures and a few settlements. Maurice had his steed keep up the quick pace until they reached what appeared to be a larger clearing with fields of wheat farms, and rice among other crops grown in this part of the world.

It appeared that had come across the ends of the jungle until they looked past two settlements up ahead and saw the jungles wrap around the large clearing. At the end of the clearing the jungle with more of the road cutting through it and two pillars flanking the road along the edge of the jungle. Not wasting time they made their way up to these pillars passing houses, farmsteads, granaries, storage sheds made from wood or bricks, small enclaves, gardens, and watch towers with armed militia. As they reached the pillars Maphai had Maurice halt their steeds to a trot. The day was turning into late afternoon as they pressed past the pillars and some locals who were coming and going on or off the road. Past the pillars they found the road slightly wider but straight as a spear leading up to some large gates with thick trees, and trimmed bushes for the flanking walls. Each one dismounted from their steed and proceeded on foot leading their Jumbo Cats to this gate. As the party of seven approached the large gates seventeen Tsubib Pajibe guards come out of two buildings that appeared to be barracks. The dozen guards greeted these warriors, soldiers, and mercenaries. Maphai dug into her traveling satchel and produced a handful of coins with a square shape and a single hole in each one. She handed the coins to the leading guard who took them and ordered for the gates to open. Once the two large doors of the gate were pushed wide open the commando and his companions entered the city of Tsubib Pajibe. 

Meeting the Veeks Chapter

Senestra rode in the boat with Captain Olverd and Leothrad as a few crew members rowed them up to an island that was near the tower. It was wider than the other one and had a lagoon surrounded by smaller strips of land circling the island. There was not much vegetation on the island’s surface, save for the sea plants that grow from the floor to the ocean’s surface. Such plant types would stick to reefs and wrap around them. They would sprout leaves that gave them the appearance of a tree.

Olverd left the Lessiiv under the command of the Vah Shir named Jethaam and Triaunes who could gain more experience in commanding crews. The Delkyr Hunter had its own Captain who still had to take orders from a Crone and a Crowsian Battle Mage who seemed bent on destroying the Cren Warships by himself. Leothrad kept looking over at the small boat next to theirs that had a woman in a cuirass and a mage’s cloak. Her hair was styled in a goddesses’ bun. Captain Olverd saw more ships arrive, she could not see them. The look on his face said everything.There was going to be a battle at sea near the island of Kruskor. Senestra turned around and saw more vessels coming in to join the other vessels.

 “Leothrad, what peoples are we meeting on that island?” she asked the Champion who did not seem to be listening. His sister spoke for him. 

“We are meeting the Crowsians, and the Veeks who are under a Hegemony that wants most of the Angoths to leave. The King of the Hegemony wishes to see our people return to Auxmire. Would your people allow us to return to the homelands of our ancestors?” Levanna asked Senestra.

“My father would ensure some of our land would be available to you once you come to our aid against the Cren Order.” Senestra said telling the Angothic Mage about part of her quest.

She inclined her head and her eyes turned to focus on the island they were approaching. Senestra looked where Levanna’s eyes were looking and saw an island surrounded by a lagoon. Four smaller islands encircled the center island. She was not surprised to see such island formations here in the middle of the ocean. As a girl she saw these islands off the coasts of Auxmire and at the ends of deltas. She was always fond of walking on the sands of the beaches on islands and the coast.

Senestra remembered when she was a little girl a little boy who used to play with her on the sands near the port city of Alcos, which was a trade city of Etras. There were many trading cities along the coasts of the Etrasian kingdom, which was too vast for its population to fill. Etras had a large population, but not enough to fill the vas fields and forests of Etras. Most of the lands were claimed by nobles, landowners and other officials of the Etrasian Council. These lands were still crawling with goblins and ogres that attack anyone who dares trespass into their territories. Many ogres fucked her friends leaving them with spawns they wanted for some odd reason. Most of the spawn that lived turned out to be more human than ogre. She herself found it of fully strange for the spawn to have such traits. One friend had a son who refused to love her since she continued to sleep with others even after the ogre impregnated her.

Senestra reminisced about the past as they approached the island lagoon. Her friend was the daughter of a Religious family in the Civid Kingdoms, which found out they were worshiping other gods. Her friend’s mother worshipped a goddess that was a forbidden deity to worship. The mother was forced to live with an ogre who took her in until her family found her. It was rumored the mother loved multiple men, only one married her giving her four children. Two of those children survived to this day. A daughter and the eldest son, the others died in a fire with the whole family that was caused by Civid Priests.

Senestra also recalled a young boy who was of Veltic origin whose clan was at a constant state of war with another clan as well as the Cren Order. Even though the Cren Order claimed most of their lands the Cren armies are unable to subdue the entire lands of the Velts. This Veltic Prince, her father would have him titled, loved Senestra’s childhood friend, Amber. She could not remember his name, but knew his face. The young warrior stayed with them for a year until Amber was taken back to the Civid lands. She returned with the spawn who did not love her at all. He refused to take Amber’s love even though she was his mother. Amber’s son stayed with his ogre father who kept him from her.

Distraught Amber stayed with them until she was sent to a university where she found him again and mistook him for someone else. Her love for him grew even as she slept with others. He did not know, but grew to love her as well. Amber came back telling her about him and returned to seek his love, but he was forced away from her. Their studies were at an end he returned home to resume his war with another clan and the Cren Order.Senestra’s dear Amber is still looking for him to this day. 

“Medryn Senestra, we are here. Aren’t you coming to the meeting? You are required to.” A voice disrupted her reminiscing of the past. She saw a hand stretched out in front of her face. It was an Angoth warrior under the command of Leothrad and Levanna, who stood there waiting for her patiently. Their expressions did not say they were patient, but the air around them was calm, warm and friendly about her lying about on the boat. “We have words to discuss with the Angoths and the other leaders.” Leothrad told her as she was pulled up to her feet.

“Those are the Veeks.” Levanna pointed to a group of figures dressed in different looking Chlamys with different garments added. Around the two diplomatic looking Veeks were Hoplite looking soldiers equipped with the Doru Spear, Xiphos Sword, Aspis Shield, and an ax. Their equipment decorated the Linothorax Armor, which was decorated with colorful beads sewn into an extravagant design on each Hoplite’s armor. Each Aspis Shield had a different image on it. One had an octopus on it while another had a Salamander on it wrapping itself around an axe. The standard helmet was the Corinthian Style with the plume colored green. Senestra saw the greaves had snakes on them and the sandals were the typical leather straps covering the feet in two overlapping layers on a think piece of cloth.

Her thoughts were still on Amber who did not tell anyone about the spawn except for her and a few others in the Etrasian Court. Levanna took her by the arm and locked hers in her own and showed her the other faction, which were the Crowsians. The Crowsians wore their hair in braids, in dreads, or completely bald. Two of the Crowsians wore light blue robes with shawls draped over their right shoulders and tied around the neck. They are escorted by fifteen guards dawning loincloths around their wastes, covering the torso and legs down to the knees. The garb on the guards had square designs all over them, linked to each other like a chain. Leothrad raised a hand in greeting to the representatives.

Olverd had his pet monkey on his shoulder, which hung on as its new master and friend met the other representatives. The Veeks and the Crowsians raised their hands up in greeting to Leothrad’s greeting. One of the Veeks came up to them with a smile across his face.

“You look more like a goddess who has seen war and remained unscathed Lady Levanna. Your beauty was unhindered during your voyage?” The Veek said taking Levanna by the hand. He wore a red striped chlamys with a robe over one shoulder and connected at the waste with a brooch. He also donned a grey beard with two braids held together with a silver ringlet.

“Panakeia you are too flattering and charming for a diplomat. How are your estates?” Levanna said slowly snatching her hand away from him.

“His estates are fine, the vineyards are as profitable as always and olive gardens never die out. Lady Levanna it is a pleasure to see you once more.” The other one bowed before her. He wore a Chlamys with a blue sash over his representing his seat on the Veek hegemony council. He looked younger than Panakeia and less of a charmer. Senestra saw him turn his gaze upon her.

“Who are you and what do you seek from this part of the world?” he asked glaring at her with stern eyes as if he were a snake ready to pounce on its prey.

“I am Medryn Senestra, an Etrasian Emissary from Auxmire. I come in search for help against the Cren Order. There are other kingdoms and other peoples like the Civids, the Velts and the Kingdom of Oross who could help us but the Civids rarely pick up arms against such a threat. They often allow war bands of goblins to slip through their territories and raid our villages and farms. We are only fortunate when the Goblins lose their way and trail off into the lands of the Velts, who destroy the war bands. There is also the Kingdom of Oross, which seems to be protected by natural barriers of mountains, rocky hills and several rivers forming a moat like defense around the Oross lands. I doubt the Kingdom of Oross would be of any help for us.” Senestra explained to the other representatives as two more Crowsians joined the meeting. Their ships landed near the island in the center and came by rowboats. Each one was escorted by a dozen guards with similar garbs to the other Crowsian guards. Senestra looked at and though she recognized one of them.

“And here you are, all the way in the middle of this forsaken ocean that no one seems to understand its dangers.” One of the Crowsian representatives criticized her. He was mostly bald save for a long single braid of hair trailing from his head to his shoulders. His robe and shawl had different patterns on them, his had long crescent shapes with a circle, moon, or flower in the crescent shapes on the robe. His shawl was a turquoise color and had a tartan design all over it.

“Forgive the criticism my lady Senestra, but I am Ongalas representative of the Crowsian state north of Kruskor Island. I once knew your father before I was sent off as a little boy to colonize other islands. As you can see my Mother State chose poorly and our people are dying out slowly despite the resupply of people. There was a time when we felt safe from invasions until the Makool reemerged from the depths of their watery domains. We lost an entire island off the coast of Auxmire and are still under attack by other Makool in these waters. Perhaps it would be wiser to seek help from the Velts and the Vah Shir, who don’t seem to care about others save for their own civilizations and cultures.” Ongalas lifted his nose up and stared down his nose at her no doubt focused on her breasts. Most Crowsians would do such things against a female emissary as a strategy to shut them up.

“Ongalas please we do not need to make Etras an enemy as well. The Isseults have attacked us numerous times in the last twenty years.” The other one chastised Ongalas. The chastising Crowsian had dreads as long as knives going down his back. His garb was lined with creatures of the sea and elaborately sewn birds of the sea. There were four animals on his robe that appeared to have themselves clung or wrapped around his clothing. His shawl was coated in a gold dye with elegant designs of plants on it. He looked at Senestra apologetically.

“I am truly sorry Medryn Senestra, I am Neptune another representative of the Crowsian States. Our states have been under attack by these Makool. Have you heard of them?”

“Yes we have heard of them, but only came across the Ipama on the Island of Kruskor!” Captain Olverd spat angry about the pace of negotiations and eager to head out and evade the Cren Order as soon as possible. He looked over his shoulder to see more Veeks and Crowsians gathering from the north and intercepting five of the Cren warships.

“I understand you are eager to get out of here, Captain?” Panakeia showed his shared concern for the Cren Warships advancing from the reefs. He looked at Olverd with a look that said he recognized him.

“Are you Captain Olverd of the Lessiiv?” he asked squinting his eyes beneath brushy eye brows. He was uncertain if it was Olverd or not.

“Yes I am Captain Olverd of the Lessiiv, can we get on with this?” The Captain snapped at the Veek diplomat.

“Olverd calm down the ships are intercepting them!” She hissed at Olverd.

Diomedes looked at Leothrad observing him in search of any new scars. “Leothrad, how did you come across the Etrasians on your voyage?”

“My sister, Ceinius, Visdier and I were aboard the Delkyr Hunter on our way from the Crowsian State Edas the Captain of the ship, Clovis wanted to clear out some Delkyr in the area. That was when more Delkyr appeared to attack us at sea. Whoever’s task it was to clear that sea of the monsters failed to clear it up for the past two years. That island was supposed to be blocked off!” Leothrad yelled furious over the tasks of clearing the waters and closing the island of Kruskor off from the rest of the world. “That was when he spotted a ship under attack by the same creatures. Two other Angoths and I plunged in after the monsters and killed a quarter of them before they fled back to the depths of the ocean. Ilkabad and his cousin Evnar did not return, apparently they were aboard the Lessiiv. Wasn’t it the Crowsian’s task to-“ Leothrad tried to finish but Ongalas cut him off.

“The Cren Warships over there explain everything, and ask the late representatives if you wish!” Ongalas was threw talking to the Angoth even though they were allies in a war against common foes.

“Apologies if we are late for the meeting.” One of the late representatives said as he took off his helm. The speaker was dressed in a Hoplite officer’s uniform, while the other was dressed differently. He appeared to be dressed for battle with a bronze cuirass, greaves, and leather arm braces for protecting his limbs. He wore the same type of loincloth the other Crowsian guards wore. His shield was oval shaped and was armed with a sickle sword along with a Xiphos on the other hip. They also had Hoplites guarding them along with the Crowsian guards.

“No need for apologies General Apkis, the Crowsian fleets are doing their jobs while ours are sitting here waiting for your orders.” Panakeias raised his hands up and smiled at the newcomers. “You should meet Medryn Senestra of Etras here to seek allies against the Cren Order.” The Veek gestured towards Senestra.

The other Crowsians and Veeks looked at her and kneeled as did their guards. “My lady these days have not been kind to us either. We are also suffering constant attacks from the Cren Order who keeps sending waves of ships full of goblins, tamed Ipama and Makool who have allied themselves to the demon infested order. You will have us for allies, there is no need for further discussion.”

“Might I have the name of the other representative?” Senestra asked. The other one turned and looked at her with admiring eyes. He looked young, too young to be a leader. The young Veek/Crowsian took off his helm to reveal a portion of his hair dyed white half of it shaved to create a symbol of some sort. “Lady Medryn Senestra…I am Captain Goldis of the Veek- Crowsian state of Eronos my allegiance is to you, your kingdom and your …your beauty!” His eyes opened wide when he said beauty, which was not the word he wanted to say. The others laughed as the youth clasped a hand over his own mouth and walked away embarrassed by what he said. Apkis followed after him ensuring the youth only made a minor mistake.

“His father was once King of Eronos before the Makool King struck him down with a trident on a remote island near the Crowsian State of Menos. He is too young, and could not rule. His uncle is in control and this was his first meeting between the Triangle Alliance forged between four different peoples.” Levanna said watching the Crowsians and Veeks leave them on a short notice.

Senestra watched the two Crowsians Ongalas, and Neptune converse with the Veeks who seemed keen on maintaining patrols around the seas as their fleets battled the Cren Order in the background. There was no point in jumping since she too was new at the diplomacy thing her father sent her on. Her first negotiations were with the Captain Olverd under the table, she was still disgusted from doing that. It was all her idiotic step-brother’s idea who fucked her one night when she was asleep. To him that was a joke he played on her and her friends just for laughs. There was one night when he had Amber drink to near oblivion and suck the cock of a statue thinking it was the Velt she loved, and had common folk fuck her in a tavern. Senestra never forgave her step-brother nor would she get a chance to do so. Helap died in battle with a band of ogres that crossed over the Avas River five months ago. She was pleased to know he was dead and his cronies as well.

“Lady Senestra, care to join in the conversation?” Ongalas asked folding his arms, taping his fingers on a forearm and raising one eyebrow. She felt pressured again like she was being forced into the job as emissary.

“There is nothing else to discuss here, Ongalas!” Levanna snapped at the Crowsian. “Get your ships moving, I see we have wasted time here. More are coming, and through the island’s gorge and river!” Levanna turned on her heel and marched for the boats.

“WAIT!” Senestra yelled her voice echoed in the air carrying all the way to the ships. “Couldn’t we have something inscribe our agreement and make terms to the alliance? If we are to forge one then we need something to declare our alliance! Diomedes does the Veek Hegemony seek to aid us against the Cren Order?”

“The Hegemony is willing to support anyone who is in dire need of aid against any foes. We have the ships, the man power and the money, not to mention an abundance of resources to keep a war going for ten years.” Diomedes boasted with a clear conscience of his claim, which would be put to the test by the Etrasian Emissary.

“Our silver mines will provide the money needed to fund the campaigns.” Panakeia said as he took out a blank scroll from his chlamys. He also had a piece of chalk to write the alliance down. “When this battle is over your ship will be escorted to the Court of the Triangle Alliance, there are the Angoths, us Veeks, and another group known as the Irkan Clans who should be arriving momentarily.” He turned around searching for other ships. By now there were scores of vessels in the waters headed for the Cren Order fleet. Veeks, Crowsians, Angoths and another group of vessels gathered to face the fleet of Cren warships that numbered in the hundreds.

“Do the Crowsians have anything else to aid aside from criticism?” Senestra snapped at the Crowsian Ongalas who was taken aback by this.

“Very well then, we Crowsians are not particularly part of their Triangle Brotherhood, but we do have a loose alliance with all three factions.” Ongalas said with his eyebrows raised at Senestra who seemed to have gained an upper hand over him.

“Then it is settled, each representative must write their name down on the parchment Diomedes has provided and seal our alliance with the Etrasians. Ten ships will escort the Lessiiv and the Delkyr Hunter to the continent of Casma and take them to the Courts of the Brotherhood. Is everyone agreed?” Levanna asked as she glanced at everyone standing around, each representative nodded and wrote their names down beside the faction they represented. Even Captain Olverd added his own name to the declared alliance that was forged on a lagoon island.

As they returned to the boats Senestra looked at Captain Olverd. “You seemed to be eager to get out of here until the end. What kept your tongue from going further?” She asked.

“It seemed to be going our way towards the end. Do you wish to have your quarters back? I believe the new crew members will behave themselves around you.” Olverd asked as he stepped into the boat.

“As long as you keep them busy on the top deck I am fine with that Captain.” Senestra said looking at Leothrad wondering why he was so quiet during the meeting. Their boats rowed off the shore and to the vessels anchored close by with a battle raging on the seas near the reefs and the island called Kruskor. 

Getting off Kruskor Island Chapter

Olverd followed close behind Ilkabad with the Cat like creature named Jethaam and the Champion Leothrad in the lead. Seven of the Cren servants whom Leothrad let live were on his heels, keeping up with the group. Seventeen of the Cren warriors and servants who survived the sacrifice rituals were executed, most of the humans were given their lives, while two of the demon spawn were taken as prisoners to inform them of other Cren movements.

Oross clung to Olverd like any monkey would; he looked around with his little head as they rushed through the same path they took in the jungle. His new companion liked him enough to leave the island of Kruskor and his own family of monkeys. He was pleased to see most of his crew made it through the fight with the Ipama and lived even though they were a heartbeat away from being sacrificed to some god under the reefs of the island. They were probably at the Lessiiv now waiting for their captain to return to them.

According to Leothrad some of Olverd’s men were still alive hiding in the deck of the ship. A few others were kept as prisoners in one of the lower decks. Olverd did not bother to ask how many men were alive, he was contempt with the number of men he had left under his command. That did not keep him from grieving for the losses he suffered. His losses started out at sea when they first fought the sea serpents. Those losses increased when they came to the nightmarish island of Kruskor. He lost thirty members of his crew before the Ipama overwhelmed them with numbers.

In the battle for the Lessiiv most of the Groviscian Hoplites died as they defended the ship. Each one was overwhelmed and jumped by the overcrowding Ipama. There was no doubt in Olverd's mind that those Ipama lost more of their brethren than they did. It surprised him the most when the Ipama betrayed the Cren order before they were attacked themselves. He recalled a moment in the battle when they were defending the ship when he believed the Ipama were under the influence of the Cren Order. It was the way they took orders from the Cren Servants that made it appear the Ipama now served the false god's descendant. Groviscian Hoplites fell like flies when the Ipama jumped down from the yards and the mast of the ship. He couldn't believe only a handful of Hoplites were left after the battle was over.

That did not matter now what mattered most was getting back to his ship and getting off this island. The way they took in the jungle felt shorter than the one the Ipama dragged them on. As they came out of the jungle and into the clearing Olverd grew exited at the sight of the Lessiiv. He had been gone for so short a time, but it did seem like an eternity for the captain. Olverd looked at the skies and saw it was getting dark again. Leothrad took them to the bank of the river where some boats and canoes came up to bring them in. Olverd saw the Lessiiv loaded with what remained of the passengers and the crew waiting for its captain.

Olverd stood on the bank of the river as a canoe rowed up to pick up the rest. It was one of his crew who survived and hid in the lower decks of the ship. He saluted Captain Olverd and tossed a line that was tied to the canoe.

"Hello Captain, are you reclaiming your command over the ship? The Lessiiv is waiting for you." He said to the Captain as he stretched out a paddle. Olverd did not say a word he took the sailor's paddle and climbed down on to the canoe. Leothrad and two others joined them as other vessels came in to pickup the rest.

"I will accompany you on this part of our voyage to steer your ship out of this island. Will you allow me to steer your craft while you command her?" Leothrad asked. The Angoth Champion turned around and waved at the other ship. Olverd turned to the Delkyr Hunter and saw two women and a bald man standing at the bow of the ship waving back at Leothrad.

"As long as you can get us off this damned island you have my permission master Leothrad. Who are those three?" Olverd asked Leothrad, as the canoe came up to the Lessiiv. He looked at one of the women closely. The taller one was younger and held some resemblance to Leothrad. To her right was an older woman who seemed to be the wise old woman there to lecture the young woman. Olverd looked at the other figure who was bald and dressed in Crowsian garb.

Leothrad looked back as the canoe came up to the Lessiiv. "That is my sister Levanna who is a Mage of the Angoth council. Next to her is her mentor the Crone Visdiar. The bald one is a Battle Mage from the Crowsian Isles named Ceinius. He has two pupils aboard with us on the Delkyr Hunter."

Ropes were tossed down to the canoes with passengers and the last of Leothrad's search party. As the last of the survivors were behind them Olverd, and Leothrad climbed to the quarter deck. Captain Olverd turned around and waited for the others to come aboard the Lessiiv before he put them to work. Jethaam and his Vah Shir came up then made room for others. Second and last came the Cren servants who were spared for the service of the Lessiiv's Captain. When the new members were on the quarter deck of the Lessiiv Captain Olverd looked at all of them.

"I am reclaiming my command over this ship. I may have lost her in the battle but she is mine again. Those of you who allied themselves with those Ipama beasts will work in the lowest deck and that is where you shall sleep. Our Medryn is quartered near the lower decks and will acquire my own quarters while Leothrad and I will sleep in hers to keep you in line." He turned around looking for a crew member who didn't seem occupied at the time. Near the main mast Olverd spotted Triaunes leaning against it.

"Trianes!" He hollored as the Lessiiv started to move forward slowly at its own pace. When the young sailor looked at his direction Olverd motioned for him to come over to the quarter deck. Triaunes rushed past other crewmen and rushed up to the Captain and the new crew mates.

"This is Triaunes, Triaunes these are our new members of the crew. We will make further introductions later Triaunes take these Cren slaves down to the lower decks and get them to work." Olverd said as he glared at the former slaves of the Cren Order. Triaunes led the Cren servants down to the decks of the ship and descended the steps. Olverd's gaze followed them as they went down to the lower decks of the Lessiiv's hull.

When they disappeared in the lower deck Olverd turned to the Vah Shir aboard the ship. He observed each one seeing they were fit to help sail the ship.

“Have each of you been out at sea long enough to sail her without instructions?” Olverd asked them.

The one named Jethaam stepped forward. “Captain Olverd, our kind were recently enslaved to work the oars of their galleys. Some of us learned how the vessel works and had sailors teach us how to sail one before being captured. Those skills were put to the test by the Cren Slavers. We are under your command Captain Olverd.”

Olverd looked to Leothrad who was already at the wheel steering the ship through the river that cut through the Island of Kruskor. Leothrad was allowed to steer the ship since he knew the island better than most of the people aboard the Lessiiv. He had the Angoth navigate the Lessiiv through the island’s only river to the sea.

“This is why I am accompanying you, Olverd.” Leothrad said as he navigated the vessel through the island’s river coming across reefs as the river widened. They came to the estuary of the river opening up the way to the seas. Olverd felt a great sigh of relief escape his lips when he saw the ocean from where he stood. The Lessiiv was still in the river and entering the estuary as it came past the jungles of Kruskor Island. Trees became more like brush and grass as the Lessiiv led the Delkyr Hunter towards the estuary. Olverd looked around as the Angoth Champion drove the Lessiiv through the estuary. The Delkyr Hunter followed close behind them as Leothrad took Olverd’s vessel out to the sea and out of Kruskor’s estuary. Leothrad knew more about this half of the island than most of the Angoth warriors who were onboard the Delkyr Hunter. Olverd turned around and watched them leave the island with the Delkyr Hunter and estuary in his view. The island had more people killed than the Cren Order itself in the eastern half of Auxmire, there the kingdoms would rise up in rebellion against the proclaimed deity.

“Master Olverd, you are in good hands now, we Angoths will protect you and your vessel, let us lead the rest of the way.” Leothrad proposed to Olverd. Leothrad was the right choice for navigating them through the island’s inner river. As the Lessiiv exited the estuary the Delkyr moved to the left and sailed up alongside her as she gained speed from more sails released to increase the ship’s speed. Senestra came out of the cabin to see if they were finally out of the island. She joined the two navigators at the quarter deck of the vessel.

She wore diplomatic clothes this time hoping to speak with the leaders of the Angoth group. As she came up the steps her eyes never left Leothrad while he steered the Lessiiv with the Angoth vessel on their right and the island getting smaller behind them. They were not a great deal away from the island, but it was obvious they were leaving it behind to the Ipama and the Makool.

Oross jumped out of Olverd’s shirt and onto his shoulder to see the world around him. To the little monkey the sea was a new environment. He turned his little head observing the waves and the skies above them, which were full of clouds. Oross saw Senestra who was still looking at Leothrad steering the ship. He leapt from Olverd onto Senestra’s shoulder. Oross chattered as he played with her hair with his small hands. Senestra laughed as the little monkey climbed to the other shoulder and clung to her arm as she stretched it out.

“Where did you find this little friend Olverd?” she asked the Captain still glancing at Leothrad from time to time with her eyes.

“He found me when we were drug through the jungle by those cousins of his!” Olverd said staring back at the island of Kruskor.

He took another long look at the island he was leaving. It seemed to stretch out like a very small continent in the middle of the ocean. The jungles covered most of the island with beaches on both sides and the cliffs towering over the trees like a mountain. The reefs could also be seen stretching from the island to smaller islands of sand and a few rock formations. Olverd saw figures on the beach emerging from the water invading the island of Kruskor.

Olverd turned around to face the sea not wanting to look back at the island that almost killed him. He saw another island in the ocean where three more ships sat in waiting. On the island was a natural tower with four different banners flying over the island. There was a Green one, a blue one and an orange one, which was the same as the one on the Delkyr Hunter. The fourth one was a purple flag with what looked like a triangle with a spear and a sword through it. Olverd spotted three other vessels with different banners approaching them. Amongst them was a Crowsian Trireme without the multiple oars a vessel usually had. It seemed to be powered by Mages who were controlling the single set of oars and proving wind for the waves. Senestra turned her head to see the three vessels approaching them. All three vessels had someone waving a peace banner at the bows to show they were friendly and not hostile. One of the vessels did have a banner set up which signaled enemies were nearby. None of the crew knew what enemies were there until they all turned the other way and saw a squadron of Cren Order galleys emerge out of the reefs.

Olverd wanted to dart past the three vessels approaching them, but realized Leothrad had control over the Lessiiv. He wanted to evade contact with them but Senestra placed a hand on his shoulder.

“No, let them come to us we should see what they want. Don’t you see that Crowsian Trireme with them?” Senestra asked as another island appeared in their view of the ocean. It seemed to have hidden itself behind the ships they saw. The three vessels hailing them stopped to let the two vessels approach them instead. Olverd ordered his crew to raise the sails and slow the speed of the Lessiiv. The Delkyr Hunter also slowed its speed down slowly coming up to the three vessels waiting for them.

Olverd clearly saw the light blue lines on the Crowsian sails, which sat next to an Angoth vessel teeming with what looked more like warriors than sailors for a crew. The other vessel was a green colored sail with an owl for a symbol. To the green sailed vessel’s left was the smaller island. In the distance Olverd could see more vessels gathering just beyond the small island.

“Captain Olverd have someone hail them back and we will meet them where they choose.” Senestra commanded.

“As long as it is not on that island behind us, I will have someone hail them back. Jeskr, Jeskr!” Olverd summoned Jeskr, who appeared at the base of the cabin when Olverd came to the steps.

“Aye, Captain?” Jeskr asked saluting him. “What do you need me to do?”

“Go get the hailing peace flag from my quarters and wave it at the bow of the vessel.” Olverd commanded. Jeskr rushed into the cabin to fetch the hailing flags.

As Jeskr went inside the cabin Olverd looked over and saw the Angoths had three flags set up, a hailing flag, one for enemies, and another that he did not understand its meaning. He looked at Leothrad was too busy keeping the ship on course even though it was sitting in the ocean. Leothrad waved at the other vessel and it stopped right next to the Lessiiv.

“Let’s go meet the other leaders Captain Olverd, and Medryn Senestra.” Leothrad escorted Senestra and the Captain to the side of the ship where a life boat was waiting for them. 

Rescue Chapter

Leothrad was not the only person to hear the drums beating furiously in the distance. They had been following the trail of disturbed brush for some time and came across some monkeys. As the warriors came to the area inhabited by monkeys Leothrad ordered for them to stop so he could listen to the drums. Leothrad focused on the sounds of the drums as the monkeys came closer to them. Some of them jumped on the shoulders of several warriors and chased each other around.

Dozens of monkeys jumped from shoulder to shoulder and head to head as the warriors stood in the jungle like statues. Each one listened with their leader to the drums that fell silent for the fifth time. For several moments the warriors heard nothing but the jungle and the chattering of the monkeys. Four of the warriors threw the monkeys off their shoulders trying to force them away, but more of them jumped on the live statues in the jungle. Leothrad kept his ears open for any more drum beats that could lead them to the cliffs. He had five monkeys climbing all over him when the drums came again.

“Can you hear that?” Jethaam asked him from behind as the monkeys went scattering all over the place.

Leothrad turned his head to face the Vah Shir with one eye. He heard the drums pick up again. This time they sounded closer than before. In his younger days as a warrior he heard those same drums played when he was on this island. He knew the sacrificing had begun on the cliffs of Kruskor Island. “We seem to be closer.”

“Would the sacrifices be on the cliffs as usual?” a warrior asked pushing past Jethaam. Leothrad looked at him saying nothing. The warrior had a braided beard and a blind eye he refused to cover up. “Champion, is that where the sacrifices are?” he growled.

“Only the drums will tell us.” Leothrad told him before setting off again, following the drums instead of the path of disturbed brush.

The Angoth Champion rushed through the jungle as his party ran after him. The drums stopped again signifying another sacrifice was made. He picked up the pace eager to rescue who ever was in the hospitality of the Ipama. It was not long before the drums rose up again preparing for another sacrifice. Leothrad ran over the tracks of the Ipama and the captives following the drums to the location of the sacrifices. As the rescue party drew closer to the source of the drums the beating stopped. Another sacrifice was made, this time they all heard the screams of the victim.

Leothrad raised his arm to halt their advance and turned to the warriors following him. When he turned the drums started again and he looked up to see Ipama warriors staring down at them. Leothrad counted double their own number, but barely enough to overwhelm them. Each warrior looked ready to jump their targets below. Leothrad raised his spear and shield in a defensive stance. He locked shields with another Angoth warrior as another locked shields on his left. A force of forty or so warriors formed a turtle formation with their shields with the spears jutting out. As one they waited for the Ipama to jump down and surround them. When the Ipama landed on the ground the drums stopped again.

The Ipama’s stench wafted into their nostrils telling the warriors their foe was feet from them. Leothrad listened as the Ipama circled around them anticipating when they should attack. He felt the drums would begin anew any moment if something wasn’t done soon. Even if they were there the Ipama could toss another sacrifice over the cliff before the Angoths attacked. The feeling that the drums were about to begin again gave him goose bumps and made his skin crawl. His command was to wait for the drums to start up again before they strike at the circling Ipama.

It felt like a long wait before the drums started up again. Leothrad peaked out of a gap in the shield formation and saw the Ipama were still circling them. He gripped his spear even tighter pacing himself before stabbing one of the Ipama. When he jerked the spear from the corpse the rest of the party chose their targets and struck. Leothrad shouted to break formation and attacked another Ipama. The Ipama tried to fight back, but the Angoths overpowered the one hundred Ipama. Each warrior killed two or three Ipama eliminating all the attackers. Their movements were too quick for any of the Ipama to block or runaway. Leothrad looked up to check if there were any other Ipama watching them from above.

He saw no other Ipama in the trees. The warriors around him also glanced up and saw nothing, but the tops of the trees and the branches stretching over them. Once they saw for themselves there were no Ipama left to fight they looked towards their leader who was already headed to the source of the drums. Jethaam and his Vah Shir followed at his heels as the rest of the men followed after them. The drums grew louder as they progressed through the jungle quickly. Over the drumming they began hearing other noises up ahead. Leothrad could tell they were very close to the source of the drums. He slowed his pace as not to rush into a trap at the cliffs. When the drums stopped again Leothrad crouched down and crept his way to the edge of the jungle where the cliffs were. His entire rescue party did the same as their leader, most did so because they were experienced and knew the process of rescue missions.

As they crept to the very edge of the jungles they came across a fence of spears stuck in the ground. Behind the wall of spears were the captives waiting for their turn to be sacrificed. Most of them were sailors and Groviscian Hoplites. The rest were what remained of the Cren force they fought on board the Lessiiv that had attacked her with the Ipama. Among them were a dozen armored Cren warriors that formed the remnants of the pile of warrior they came across. Leothrad recalled the large clearing they came across while following the trail of disturbed forest. Over a thousand bodies of Ipama and over a hundred Cren Warriors lay dead in the clearing. Four different Ipama tribes were at the same clearing. He did not know which was which or the names, but their garb differentiated them from others. The tribe that first helped the Ipama was massacred while the rest seemed to have fought over the captives in the clearing.

His fellow warriors gathered along the edges of the forest and the wall of spears in front of them. Leothrad looked down the line of captives who watched in horror as another victim was being chained to the cliffs. None of the Ipama were watching the prisoners and did not know they Angoths were there. As he looked down the row he spotted Evnar and Ilkabad Leothrad spotted other captives guarded by Ipama who were hard. The Champion saw it was women the Ipama were guarding which explained their hardness.

Every one of the women looked horror stricken at the sight of the Ipama and huddled together for comfort. Among them was a more elaborately dressed woman in a green gown from the Crowsian Isles. The green dressed woman had brownish skin and dark curly hair. Her features contained large breast and a slender body. She was on her knees away from the other women appearing stronger than them. This one looked on, watching the sacrifices on the cliff. The green dress and silver brace showed her status as an important passenger of the Lessiiv. He turned his focus back on the Ipama at the cliffs who were drumming again and dancing in a circle.

“They are celebrating the success of their sacrifices. This will end soon and the Ipama will take the rest to the caves.” Jethaam whispered in Leothrad’s ear.

The search leader did not bother saying anything; he grabbed a spear in front of him and plucked it out of the dirt. His followers took up the spears as well preparing to attack the Ipama as they continued their rituals. Leothrad spotted a Shaman standing in the center of some drums and chanting to the skies. He raised the spear like a javelin and threw it launching it after the oblivious Shaman. His target fell with the spear through his back. The drums and the dancing stopped as the Shaman fell on the stone surface.

Before the Ipama could react the other Angoths and Vah Shir launched their weapons at the Ipama. The Ipama turned as their brethren died from their own spears. Each one faced the attackers who were behind the captives grabbing more spears and throwing them as javelins at the Ipama. Scores of Ipama died as dozens drew knives and charged the attackers. More thrown projectiles killed a portion of the Ipama that were on the cliff. Leothrad ordered for his Angoths to defend the captives. They formed a shield wall in front of the captives and charged the Ipama who were mostly weaponless.

Both forces met on the stone surface of the cliff, one side was heavily armed the other was armed with clubs, and daggers. Some had make shift stakes for weapons and jumped on the shields trying to stab the Angoths in the neck and the eye. More Ipama died in the fight on the cliffs as they engaged the Angoth warriors. Spears plucked from the wall of spears were used against the Ipama, puncturing their fur. The Angoths drew their swords when they lost the spear. Ipama were slashed across the body, neck and pierced with multiple spears as the Angoths fought their way through the mass of Ipama. Ipama fell like flies as the Angoths and Vah Shir cut them down covering the stone surface with corpses and blood. There were limbs and hands cut off the Ipama when they attacked the Angoths.

Leothrad sliced his way through the Ipama to their Shaman who proved to be harder to fight since the other Ipama only had daggers and war clubs. The remaining shamans were armed with scimitars and long swords taken from adventurers and merchants who must’ve been lost in a storm. The closest Ipama swung at him with a scimitar; he blocked it with his sword and bashed the foe with the shield. He blacked another blow from the other Ipama Shaman who screamed in his face. A third Shaman leaped at him and struck a high blow down on him. Leothrad raised his shield in time to block it and swept another attack from the first one.

It seemed these Shamans knew how to fight and were experienced warriors. Each one attacked the Champion one after the other while their followers were massacred behind the Champion. The battle for the cliffs reached them and the Angoths forced scores of the Ipama who remained to the floor with spears and shields. Remnants of the Ipama group died at the feet of the Angoth warriors and their Feline allies. All that was left were the three Ipama fighting the Champion of the Angoths.

Leothrad knocked one of them down trying to even the odds, but the three opponents repeatedly attacked him. To him it was unusual for an Ipama to be this skilled in warfare, because most Ipama died in the first battle even against other Ipama tribes. These three had seen plenty of battles even against the Makool from the beaches. His party of Angoths watched him as they banged their shields and spears together. Hearing the Angoth shields inflamed Leothrad increasing his stamina in the fight. He felt stronger from the boost he was given. When the second Ipama attacked he raised his shield covering his body and plunged his sword forward. The blade gutted the Ipama as it raised its weapon. It gasped in shock as he stuck the Ipama. Leothrad twisted the blade and yanked it out attacking the first Ipama.

He sliced its neck then swung down cutting its leg. It fell to the ground chocking from the cut as blood sprayed from this neck. Now he had one foe to face Leothrad turned to the remaining Ipama with the cliff at his back. When he faced the last Shaman with the Angoths cheering him on Leothrad’s eyes locked with the green dressed woman who watched with interest. Her blank expression did not say she was interested, but her eyes said everything. She raised her chin acknowledging that he was looking at her. Leothrad kept his eye on her while he waited for the Ipama to make the next move.

She stared back at him waiting for the fight to continue. Leothrad seemed to be waiting for her to give the command. The woman nodded and Leothrad faced the last Shaman who swung at him. He caught the blow with his sword then shoved the Ipama to the ground. Feeling victorious Leothrad stepped up to the fallen foe and made the finishing blow. He thrust his sword into the Ipama’s chest ending the fight for the cliffs.

Leothrad pulled his sword from the corpse and wiped the blood off on its fur before sheathing it. He looked at his gathered party then at the captives behind them. His eyes went to the women who were still huddled together thinking they would be captives to another group again. The one in the green dress did not budge from her spot or showed any fear, she seemed very strong. Leothrad nodded to her and she closed her eyes and opened them again, acknowledging him. He turned to the warriors and looked over their heads taking a glance at the sailors, Hoplites, Angoths and the last of the Cren warriors still bound and in a line.

“Unbind the captives, but leave the Cren scum I’ll have a few words them.” Leothrad commanded.

“You want us to kill them here Champion?” one younger looking warrior asked. His hair came out of his helmet and drooped over his shoulders and iron cuirass, which was brimmed with fur. His shield had a claw on it with a spike in the center.

“No, Avax I will keep them here, Jethaam and his Vah shir will stay with me. The rest of you warriors will rearm and escort the others back to the ships. Jethaam’s group and I will return.” Leothrad walked over to the woman in green who sat up as he approached her. She looked aroused when he came up to her. The Angoth Champion kneeled before in respect.

“My lady I am Leothrad Champion of the Angoths. Our ship was out hunting Sea Serpents when we spotted yours surrounded by them. Two other Angoths and I were chasing the creatures around. The other two did not return to our vessel, perhaps they are on board yours? Their names are Ilkabad and Evnar.”

The green dressed woman was speechless for a minute and could not find any words to say. She gaped at him like a young girl does when she sees a person she wants, but is rendered speechless. Leothrad looked up waiting for her to speak, and put his head back down when she regained herself.

“Thank you Leothrad of the Angoths, I am the Medryn Senestra, daughter of the King’s Counselor and the Emissary of Etras. My ship and I are grateful for your rescue. It you do not mind please escort us out of this jungle immediately.” She said with a calm voice.

“Your request is our command Medryn Senestra. Warriors escort the women out of here along with the prisoners!” Leothrad barked at the Angoths.

When the rest of the prisoners were unbound, two familiar Angoths and a brown haired Captain came up to him. The Captain had blood all over his face, and clothing, he even had a monkey clutching on to his shirt and shoulder blade. It climbed on his chest to get to the other shoulder. Leothrad turned to the familiar faces approaching him.

“Ilkabad, Evnar there you are!” Leothrad said with a grin as he embraced the cousins. He grabbed Ilkabad by the head and pressed his forehead against his.

“My sister was worried about you, future brother in law!” Leothrad growled happily.

Ilkabad laughed feeling the joy to see his fellow Angoth once more. Leothrad looked at the Captain. “Who is this? What is the monkey’s name?” he asked both.

“I am Captain Olverd, the Captain of the Lessiiv and this is my new companion, Oross. He came to me when we were dragged to the cliffs through the jungles. He will make a nice friend for my future voyages, thanks to you and your warriors.” Olverd thanked Leothrad for rescuing them from being sacrificed.

Behind them a Cren servant shouted to the Angoths in praise. “Thank the gods you came, for we would have perished at the hands of these savages if it wasn’t for you warriors!”

Leothrad brushed past Ilkabad and Olverd making his way to the line of Cren servants who were still bound. A small number of them were mostly demon, the other half were half demon while the rest were all humans, forced to accept Cren’s descendant to be a deity. He could tell a small number of these captives would survive this day. In his mind Leothrad decided to play a game with them. Evnar came up behind him.

“What should we do with this scum?” he asked the Champion.

“These slaves of Cren had the island of Kruskor set against us. I think we should let the humans live and half the demons alive.” Leothrad suggested. His mind was still set on playing a game with the servants of Cren.

Leothrad smiled then looked at the coast that was visible from this height. It was the same coast he had fought on to get one enemy on a quest years ago. Instead of boats and Angoths fighting Makool he saw thousands of Makool emerging from the water. It was the largest number of Makool he had ever seen gathered in one place. He watched the army of Makool march towards the jungles of the Island as more Makool emerged from the sea. Leothrad’s gaze went to the jungle from there thousands of Ipama warriors rushed out to meet the advancing army.

He had seen skirmishes and squabbles between the two groups, but nothing like this before. Leothrad turned to the Cousins, Olverd and Jethaam with something else in mind for the Cren servants lined up before them.