No Prisoners Chapter

Chiecra had avenged Esryl's honor and death. He towered over the dead body of his nemesis, Gampo Buerex. He was the one responsible for kicking him out of town and attempting to kill him twice. Gampo was a gang member who apparently joined the Nazdar and became a Grevaskii.

"What should we do with the other prisoners?" Terc asked.

The Vestrisian vanguards looked at one another waiting for any open suggestions. All eyes looked from the three prisoners to the fourth, which was now dead. Blood trickled from his body like a stream over a hill.

"Don't waste anymore ammo on the prisoners." Athenere replied. "They may have information we need."

"Such as the vampire chemicals?" viktorov asked sounding persistent.

"That and how large their force is." Athenere added. She stood in front of the three prisoners, now standing at the entrance of the tunnel.

"Chiecra, Viktorov?" They both nodded. "You two will assist me in interrogating these three. Can you do that?"

"Yes, ma'am." the two Gwynors answered in unison. Chiecra stood to their left and viktorov to their right.

"For now you three will answer my questions!" Athenere said with absolute authority in her voice. She was clearly intent on learning more from these Nazdar prisoners.

"Get a load of this fellows." the second Nazdar laughed. "This bar wench wants us to answer her questions."

They laughed, revealing white shark like teeth. Athenere did not take kindly to this. The Furd's daughter approached the middle Nazdar and kicked him between the legs with her knee. Viktorov and Chiecra restrained the other two. The Nazdar fell to his knees holding himself. Athenere retreated to her previous spot and drew out her own pistol. The Gwynors released the Nazdar fixing their rifles on them. Chiecra had to reload his, while Athenere covered for him. He knew the Nazdar wouldn't dare try anything, since they just watched their friend get filled with a whole magazine. The three had no choice but to answer her questions, and give away vital information to the enemy.

"I will ask you some questions and you are going to give me straight answers. Understand?" Not one of them spoke after that. Fear engulfed their souls, it was her intention to instill fear in the enemy and force their mouths open.

Athenere began the interrogation. “First of all I, we would like know how many of you are there?” She demanded from the Nazdar prisoners.

One Nazdar answered nervously. “Our force …started out with thirty eight thousand. As we started enduring attacks our numbers started to decrease.”

“How many are there now?” demanded Kouthra.

“Roughly twenty five thousand, I think.” The cadet knew they were lying from the way he spoke to Athenere. He knew there were far more than what they were telling them. One of the Nazdar whispered something to the others. Chiecra heard what he whispered. “Don’t tell them we have more coming.”

Chiecra shoved his rifle in the Nazdar’s face. “Tell them what you just whispered, tell them!” He demanded placing a finger on the trigger.

“What did he say Chiecra?” Athenere asked the Cadet.

“More are coming.” The Nazdar said and gulped, regretting he had said anything at all.

“That secret of theirs will be sent to HQ.” Athenere said to the Vanguards.

The cadet stared in the Nazdar’s face smiling reluctant about him revealing a secret they tried to keep hidden. The Nazdar stared back angered by this. Although they were angry the Nazdar did nothing. “Eyes up here Nazdar scum!” Athenere drew his attention to her.

“Me and these gentlemen would like to know where you got the ability to turn beings to vampires. Where are these chemicals and how much is there? Did you use any missile system to spread the disease?” She asked the Nazdar.

“I think we would know if it was a missile.” Ilkez exclaimed.

“Thank you, sir Zhenrai. Anyway were you spreading it, using gas particles?”

One Nazdar answered looking at both his fellow prisoners. “Yes we did use gas particles to spread the vampirism. In our labs in the mountains we found ways to infect people with the disease.” Sweat dripped from his face.

“Our…Our experts used this substance from another cave near a Lenai village.”

“You co-.” Athenere cut him off. “That will be all. Has anyone written that down?”

An elf standing against the wall, held a notepad and pen. “Yes, everything-“ A sub machine gun was fired in their direction from the tunnel. The three prisoners fell to the floor. Their bodies covered with bloody holes from the rounds. Another hail of bullets forced everyone to their stomachs. Ilkez pulled Athenere from the line of fire. The Vestrisians crawled to the walls to avoid the gunfire. Chiecra slumped down onto his buttocks. Viktorov stood his ground remaining on his feet against the wall, out of the line of fire. The spray of bullets kept the Vestrisians down tightly to the ground. Dirt flew in the air from the impact of the lethal bullets. The barrage of bullets showed no signs of letting down as the Nazdar continuously fired round after round. The places they hit were the walls, ceiling and rim of the tunnel.

Chiecra heard the bullets bounce off something hard. This noise kept going along with the barrage. He could tell that a few bounced back at them. Leaning against the wall Chiecra moved slowly towards the tunnel. He could see the body of the dead flamethrower with the container crushing the corpse, hanging halfway out of the tunnel. The container was still strapped to the body. Chiecra began pulling the body out of the tunnel to him. It was nearly impossible for any of them to move. Chiecra had it easy he pulled the heavy equipment off the body. With the container unhooked from the corpse Chiecra set it beside him. He had to drag the load to where he wanted it.

“We’ve got to do something about that barrage of bullets!...Does anyone have a grenade? If you do, throw it now!” Kouthra was anxious to clear off some of the pressure coming from the attacking Nazdar. Acting on the captain’s request three grenades were thrown into the tunnel. Loud pops from the grenades came after the mini bombs were chunked. Yells and screams came soon after the grenades exploded.

A few seconds passed before anything else happened. The Vestrisians waited for another barrage. All was quiet, but the Vestrisians did not trust the silence. Most were experienced veterans who knew the ways of silence on the battlefield. Chiecra was simply doing what they did, laying low until it was secure. Chiecra looked around one last time; he thought this would be the last thing to see. Scanning the floor with his eyes he noticed everyone was no longer on the ground. Each vanguard was now against the walls. His brother, Terc and Vinco stood against the left wall. Ilkez, Athenere and Aibeth as well as the elf stood against the right wall. Chiercra knew this waiting was pointless. He was eager to kill those Nazdar. Feeling the itch for action Chiecra jumped to his feet wielding the flamethrower. Kouthra ordered for them to turn off their ear commlinks. He signaled these orders silently with his hands. A whole minute passed with the silence. Ten Vestrisian soldiers rushed into the cavern from the secret passage. Two of them charged foolishly toward the tunnel.

A hail of bullets hurtled in their direction. The Vestrisians were hit with multiple bullets Blood sprayed from their bodies from each hit. Their corpses fell to the ground as the others threw themselves against the right wall. Watching the two comrades die sparked a fire in the vanguards. Chiecra turned to face the tunnel with the Nazdar flamethrower. Viktorov began shooting back at the Nazdar. Vinco jumped forth adding more bullets to the return fire. The cadet sprayed a stream of flames at the Nazdar. He held the trigger down, not letting his finger off the trigger. Fire shot out through the tunnel engulfing the Nazdar in a fiery inferno. He did not care who the hell they were, Nazdar or human. His thoughts rested on Esryl the entire time he fried the enemy, the longing feeling to be with her kept his finger on the trigger. Chiecra gave no heed to the fuel running out. He stood with any empty flamethrower in his hands. Viktorov, Aibeth and vinco continued firing as the Nazdar heads popped up.

Chiecra observed the scorched tunnel. The bodies of the Nazdar black as coal from the inferno. Every inch of the tunnel was black. Small flames still breathed on top of a few bodies. They soon died out. When the first one went out the cadet dropped the flamethrower and grabbed his rifle. Kneeling down beside the three comrades, Chiecra fired a few rounds. Each one a head shot. Every head that appeared immediately disappeared. Pathetic attempts to return fire failed miserably for the enemy. The trio’s barrage plus Chiecra’s was only minor to the Nazdar’s first hail of bullets but had deadlier results. The Nazdar were now overwhelmed in a hail of bullets. Chiecra shot the last head to appear. His eyes were fixed on the tunnel. He waited to see if anymore would show up along with any movement. Not one body stirred nor head appear for a minute. Giving up he turned around and leaned on the bottom rim of the tunnel. He looked at the new faces in the cavern most looked to be his own age.

“So much for prisoners.” He said shrugging.

Commando Part 29

This bearded, and shaggy haired Vestrisian barely noticed them standing there. Maurice cleared his throat trying to catch the MIA soldier's attention. The attempt did not work forcing him to several more times. When that didn't that didn't work the commando walked up to the missing Vestrisian. He placed a hand on his shoulder. In response to the physical contact the soldier turned to face and nearly jumped out of his skin. Maurice calmed him down introducing himself as Lieutenant Maurice Viyamor.

Surprised the missing Vestrisian blinked several times in disbelief. He appeared speechless, and mute staring at another Vestrisian before him in a city-state within the Unknown Lands. Maurice explained to him that he was here in search of missing soldiers. The Tsubib Pajibe Council pointed them to soldiers like himself and knew where others were located. When he finished explaining the Vestrisian introduced himself as Corporal Nestor Steele-Oakley of the former Vestrisian Expeditionary Forces. Nestor appeared too surprised that his country sent someone to come looking for him and his comrades. He did not have same reaction as the ones Maurice encountered before coming to Tsubib Pajibe. This soldier showed more ecstatic happiness that woeful relief. Without saying anything to the rest of Maurice's party the soldier welcomed them to sit with him at a table he set up behind his hovel.

Maurice beckoned his companions to follow him and Steele-Oakley. Maphai, and Nanim hesitated for a moment, but were encouraged by Hilastes and Amonif. Eyanosa and Oroceth chose to stay at the door and keep a careful look out for trouble. Oakley led the party of soldiers and mercenaries to the table where he had a map placed on it with locations dotted allover it. Maurice and his companions took a careful look at it seeing it was a map of the southern parts of the unknown lands. As they sat down with two look outs at the front porch Steele-Oakley brought out a map of the city he managed to draw himself with locations of gangs, known thieves, assassins, prostitutes, and names such as Overton, Giffordson, Olagella, and Gilleth under a blue marking. The commando ignored the locations of gangs, thieves and assassins. He asked who these men were on the map. Oakley explained these men were four other Vestrisians in the city. One was in the heart of the city, two lived together near the entrance, and the other one lived in the edges of the city. Maphai contacted their yacht to see how things were doing over there. According to Ordoz the Yacht and the Tsubib Pajibe post came under attack by gunslingers. None of their own were killed, but the guards lost two men. A group of ten gunslingers were hunting them down and there could be more coming for them.

The mercenary leader put the radio away. She turned to Maurice who appeared eager to get Oakley and the rest of these Vestrisians out of the Unknown Lands. Odeliah their pirate friend must have taken the found Vestrisians over to this smuggler who must have been nearby or in one of the cities. He was about to ask Maphai when Oakley suggested they gather the four Vestrisians here first then have Maurice and his men go back to their yacht. Oakley and the Vestrisians in the city will gather the Vestrisians camped in the outskirts and a trio of Vestrisians located in a village to the east. He said there was a way to get to the city of Waikun, and to the sea itself through the swamps, and jungles via river.

Making this arrangement did not go the way Maurice wanted or thought things would be going. However it did offer an alternative to the original plan. Both Vestrisians shook hands agreeing to the plan where they would head towards a river that ran through the area to the sea. Maphai ordered Nanim to head back to the yacht and tell them what was going on. Eyanosa and Hilastes decided to go with Nanim through a quick permission from Maurice who leaned against the table in waiting for Oakley. The newly found MIA Vestrisian went to his hovel in preparation for leaving for awhile. He returned armed with a Vestrisian pistol, ammo belt, a harness with a trench knife and jungle blade. When he closed the door the part split again one group going back to the yacht, and the rest heading deeper in the city to gather the other four Vestrisians. Maurice, Oraceth, Maphai, and Amonif joined Oakley to find the other four whereas the other three left for the yacht.

A quartet of soldiers, Rangers, and mercenaries followed the MIA Vestrisian to the edge of the city to the south east. Their path brought them back to parts they had come across to get to Oakley's hovel. Going through the city with a guide who lived there made things a little more easier since the city's layout was fresher in Oakley's mind. Maurice and his companions passed homes, shops, and craftsmen shops and plenty of Tsubib Pajibe's inhabitants. Most did not pay any attention to them or notice them as some glanced at them. A few watched them for a few moments before going back to their own business. He did not know how long it took them to make their way through the city. They arrived at the edge of the city's wall where they came upon a large structure that appeared like a modern or Gantronese barracks transformed into a layered complex of homes along the wall. Outside the complex were other structures like an outside tavern, vendors, a few artisan shops, and other craftsmanship. At the tavern they found a trio of figures wearing dirty, tattered blue clothing. Each one looked to be shaggy haired and thick bearded like Oakley was. Oakley turned to Maurice pointing out the trio were the Vestrisians he had marked on his map.

Maurice noticed one of them had the appearance of a Forsythan, a second was a Zedirian (a mix of other races), and the other was a half elf. They sat a small table next to the bar area that was partially alive with Tsubib Pajibe inhabitants and a few foreigners. He approached the tavern with his companions drawing attention from those in the tavern including the three missing Vestrisians. Five newcomers that appeared foreign must have drawn a mixture of attention from the patrons inside. A number of them eyed the foreigners with some distrust, but remained where they sat. Others ignored them as the rest watched them with suspicious eyes. The trio of Vestrisians waved Oakley with glances at Maurice with disbelief to see other Vestrisians this deep in the Unknown Lands.

Oakley led the four warriors over to the trio of Vestrisians without much resistance from them. After weeks if not a month of traveling the commando and his companions had grown wary of hostiles in cities, roads, and the wilderness. Their own experiences in bar fights, quarrels, skirmishes, and ambushes gave them the senses to be on their guard at all times when entering a settlement such as Tsubib Pajibe, and Kunmar. With Oakley at the head of their group Maurice took a good look around to see if anyone else was still focused on them. Among the patrons he spotted an Orc with dark skin in a large sash wrapped around his body like a tunic and a robe held together with lacing and belts around his abdomen. He had tribal tattoos allover his arms and he was armed with a Gantronese style sword. The orc's gaze was not on them, but more on his own thoughts. At the bar area he saw a few figures who appeared to be Drows wearing more modernized suits compared to the rest of the patrons. They seemed to stick out far more than the orc and a few other patrons not native to Tsubib Pajibe. To his greater fortune none of them turned around with their backs facing them. Before he could check if there was a mirror at the bar Oakley introduced Viyamor to Privates Alexander Overton, Castian Olagella a volunteer, and Ellion Gilleth.

Just after their names were introduced to each other the trio of Drows got up from the bar. Each one turned around to reveal a pin like symbol of the Caligari Syndicate. The pair of goons they encountered yesterday appeared from an empty building next to a vendor close by. A few other figures came in from behind them. Maurice looked over his shoulder to see four more goons, two goblins armed with batons, one large human with brown skin armed with a machete knife, and a kuruk without the horns armed with what appeared to be some kind of club mace. Feeling another fight was about to break out Maurice inched for a weapon. He noticed his companions doing the same as the Caligari goons closed in. Within a blink of an eye all of him and his companions sprang into action. Most of them drew pistols and revolvers while some drew throwing knives. In moments of drawing their weapons each one selected a target while forming a circle. Maurice turned on the pair they saw earlier firing a few shots into each watching as a stray knife penetrated one of them in the stomach. Shooting was quick ending with caligari goons on the floor and ground, several glasses broken, a few bullet holes in the furniture.

Everyone else in the tavern and bar either ducked down, or ran off leaving a few witnesses to the shootout. Before the crowds, and authorities arrived at the scene Oakley, and Gilleth urged the rest of them towards the center of the city where a Private named Miles Giffordson lived. Maurice and his increased number of companions raced towards the center with the MIA soldiers at the lead. They crossed the bridge to the center from there they came to a platform and ascended a few levels before arriving at home that appeared more like an apartment. Oakley knocked on the door letting this Miles know who was here. When he opened the door revealing a bearded man wearing clothes similar to the inhabitants only his dog tag stuck out from the rest of his appearance. It seemed to give away his identity as some soldier who had gone missing, awol, or abandoned the army. This Giffordson was briefed in quickly as his comrades gave him details introducing him to the commando and other others. When it seemed to make sense the Private nodded his head and turned around into his house. He reappeared ready to travel.

Polasian Road Chapter

Three days passed since the Goblins attacked them again midday after their first attack at night. It was mainly the help from the mermaids who tipped multiple vessels over that the odds grew in their favor. Two ships were lost and about ten to thirteen men lost aboard each vessel. Most of the Cren servants gave their lives aboard the Lessiiv as the Vah Shir made short work of the goblin pirates. Senestra sat on a crate looking out at the tall rocks as they passed them.

Visdiar had made it clear to all Captains that none of their ships were to enter those reefs until they reached on that resembled a horse’s head. With each passing moment they were getting closer to the reefs as they seemed to widen every thirty feet. Most were far apart to allow the Lessiiv to go through not that it was the largest craft among their convoy. She felt relieved to finally be past the parts where they had to fight off any more goblin pirates.

The second attack was a desperate attempt to seize their ships for future raids and ambushes. At one point she recalled glimpsing a rather large craft deep within the reefs crawling with Goblins. It seemed rather large for the reefs but the goblins seemed to get it through quite easily. When she spotted it following them she saw it looked like nothing she had ever seen. Its sails were triangular and its hull was more rotten and hideous looking with age. Where did the Goblins get their vessels? It was a question she had to ask Visdiar who seemed to know more about these goblins. There was no question to where or how the Goblins replenished their numbers. She did not want to think about that for a second. It reminded her of what happened to Veltic heroines and maidens from Oross when captured by ogres and such creatures she would never want to see again.

She turned her gaze away from the reefs and over to Olverd recalling the moments before the attack by the Goblins. Senestra felt good after that until the Goblins came scaring her to the bones. There was something about his gaze that concerned her. His appetite seemed quenched this morning and he barely ate anything midday meal. What was wrong with him? Was it the Goblin night raid getting to him? Visdiar joined her as Olverd was steered along side a Veek vessel that was headed for a large gap in between four reefs.

“You see there Senestra, that leads to a path running through the towering rocks. It should be safe enough for us to go through with no pirates attacking us.” She said showing the emissary.

Senestra saw four rocks standing in the water like a gate to another city. On the tops of each one were battlements with ropes and chains dangling down into the ocean. Visdiar eyed Senestra’s dress as though it reminded her of something. The Crone did not bother asking her about the dress and addressed another matter as the convoy maneuvered into the path in the reefs.

“Those battlements are manned by the mermaid warriors who guard these waters day and night? Ceinius! Where are those mermen that are needed for these posts?” Visdiar shouted.

“No one can tell you that Crone! Merpeople are late for everything!” Ceinius complained from a separate portion of the deck.

“Typical Crowsians always flirting with mermaids. Look there Senestra a guard has come up for their daily duty.” Visdiar pointed somewhere and Senestra turned to look at where the Crone was pointing. On top of another reef that was wide enough to be considered a tower a mermen was climbing up the ropes dangling down from the battlements. Next to it was another reef with a battlement manned by an archer.

“Goblins never venture past these points because of the guards that man these reefs. Some reefs along this path have multiple balconies for more than one guard to stand watch over this path.” Visidiar informed Senestra who looked around them seeing more reefs with balconies and battlements. Merpeople clambered on to these tall rocks armed with spears, bows, and tridents. Somehow she felt safe in this path forged through the Polasian waters. A mermaid appeared before them and rested her breasts on the railing of the bow. She was topless before the Crone and Emissary.

“Visdiar is that you? Oh I’ve waited so long for your bony hands to grip my breasts. The curse you placed on me doesn’t keep the Goblins or Makool away from my chambers.” The mermaid smiled a lustful smile that said “please me” to the Crone. Visdiar cackled a little and reached for the mermaid’s heavy, firm breasts. Her bony hands squeezed the young mermaid’s breasts digging her fingers into them.

“I see they have grown since the last time I held them in my grasp.” Visdiar gave them a violent squeeze and began fondling them as though she meant to milk the mermaid who found pleasure in this. It was more than Senestra could ask for until she saw the Veeks aboard one of the escorts tit-fucking a mermaid. She saw a line of sailors with their trousers partially down and tunics lifted up. Several of them had hands clawing into their butt cheeks. Wanting no part in this sex festival going on, Senestra left for her cabins as did Levanna and Olverd, who seemed disgusted at this sight.

“It always bothered me coming this way. Mermaids have a way of luring men or anyone into such sexual behavior. There are times when Visdiar pleads to visit the Polasian reefs just for that reason. My mother always hated that Crone for various reasons! Her ridiculous behavior brought to many scoundrels to her inn. She had fourteen Mermaids come there for the pleasure of a hundred warriors who ravaged them all on the pier of her inn. It is located on an island near the Fist of Lothi or is it between the Blade of Angeris and the Fist of Lothi?” Levanna asked herself confused of the whereabouts of the island where her mother’s inn lies. It was confusing to hear about these different names for islands and lands that Senestra never heard of before.

“Will there be forts and settlements defending the settlements in this New Angothia?” Olverd asked entering the cabins after they did and shutting the door shut. Screams of delight erupted signifying more mermaids came aboard. None of the three sensible people dared peer out to see what was going on outside.

“There are numerous islands and fortresses along the coasts of the Blade of Angeris. However there are a few island fortresses and citadels that were abandoned over time. Those fortresses are closer to the southern tip of the Blade shaped island. Many of the Angoth settlements along the coasts have an outpost, or barracks of warriors to defend them.” Levanna answered. “We will be going to one of the Veek trading posts in the northern section of the Polasian waters.” Levanna continued down the hall to the map room.

Olverd brushed past Senestra who looked at him lustfully blinking slowly at him. He wanted her again badly this time feeling his loins ache from the craving he had for her. Senestra could almost feel the ache just looking into his eyes as they went to the map room of the Lessiiv. She walked alongside him grasping his shirt and kissing him on the chin before joining Levanna in the map room. He quickly followed her in discovering Levanna had a blank parchment set up next to another map of Crowsian colonies. She had a third sheet of parchment with the island of Kruskor drawn on it and a long column of reefs and islets stretching from the Crowsian colonies of Geveris, Onton, and Merconis. The others he did not recognize and saw several other islands being drawn in with Veek labels on them. They were all west of the Crowsian colonies. He looked at the map she was working on that had other Veek colonies on a group of islands and small continent. among them was one Crowsian colony called Eronos. He figured it was the one Apkis and Goldis were from that was part of some Hegemony. Senestra watched Olverd’s gaze as he watched the Angoth Mage sketch out the maps. Levanna looked up at both of them with her finger on a map where she began sketching out the Polasian reefs with a larger land mass at the bottom of the page labeled as unknown gates to other worlds.

“Here is where we are now, the Polasian road as this trail is called cuts through the reefs. It was forged by mages and merpeople. Dozens of rocks were demolished in the process with help from Veek engineers who are apt at creating roads, steam engines and siege weapons. There are other things they are well known for besides those, but getting back on subject the Veeks will leave us once we are in the northern parts.” Levanna told them continuing the sketch of the reefs.

Her sketch of the rocks did not have to be as detailed as the islands labeled on the other charters Olverd had. She turned to another blank one and began sketching out a fist then an arm before transforming it into another land mass on the parchment. Her hand drew an island labeling it the Hilt of Valos then a larger island below the fist labeling the Blade of New Angeris. Levanna’s hand continued sketching the rest of the continent and labeled it Emnos on the top. Senestra spotted one part near the central and western portion of the continent. It was south of the large mass that stretched further west than one portion. That portion resembled the knuckles of a fist with six bumps. In the most western portion of Emnos were strips of land stretching from the continent like fingers.

Senestra and Olverd wanted to observe the map Levanna was drawing for them when Visdiar and Leliin came to the doorway. Both the Crone and Hand Maiden looked at the three leaders invitingly.

“Come outside and see this splendor.” Visdiar suggested to Olverd and Senestra.

“Is that damned festival over?” Levanna asked glaring at Visdiar who nodded a “yes” to the Angoth Mage. Levanna chose to stay behind and complete her work letting the other two go with Visdiar.

Senestra was wide eyed at the site she witnessed as she walked out of the cabins. A massive natural arch stood over the path of the Polasian Road. Veek vessels went underneath two at a time and the Lessiiv went through it with no other ships next to her. Senestra gazed up at the arch as it stood above the Lessiiv with a tremendous height and width she had never seen on a rock islet before. Its upper portion was wide enough to be used as a bridge except the rough looking pikes on top. She assumed it would take some time to carve into the rock to get the smooth shape of a bridge made from stones. She also imaged the arch crumbling apart if there was any attempt to carve into a bridge.

“We are getting deeper into the Polasion Road tomorrow we will head northward to a Veek outpost. Captain Olverd, you should be wary of some parts in the north. For there are islands in between these reefs and the colonies infested with Ipama, as are the islands north west of Kruskor.” Visdiar informed them. Senestra returned to the bow of the Lessiiv to witness another Veek ship leave the convoy maneuvering itself towards a path that appeared to be forged in the rocks. Olverd joined her yelling at Jethaam to man the helm as always when he wasn’t needed. The Vah Shir sailed the vessel quite smoothly through the path that was getting narrower with very passing mile in the reefs.

“These reefs don’t seem as bad as I thought they would be.” Olverd observed with his monkey chattering on his shoulder. Oross looked around observing the world from his master’s shoulder. The little monkey climbed on his head gazing up at his new surroundings as they passed the tall rocks with battlements carved into the tops. Mermen guards armed with bows and tridents manned most of the battlements.

There were three lines of guard tower reefs on either side of the Polasian Road. Every one hundred feet was another path that led northward. Senestra found it strange that there were no trails leading south until she remembered there were Goblin Pirates to the south. She looked over to the south and caught a glimpse of a vessel following the convoy from afar. These Pirates are persistent in their pursuit of us. She said in her mind watching them following the convoy as more Veek ships left their convoy. They were down to six Veek escorts by the time dusk came to end the day.

Senestra slept with Olverd that night who did not seem apt at doing her since little Oross curled up against his shoulder. She found it adorable that the Captain named the monkey after the very Kingdom that could easily put and end to a Cren Order army if their lords and barons would just band together. The Kingdom of Oross was surrounded by natural borders of rivers that would be useful for a defense against the armies of the Cren Order.

Senestra’s mind pondered over the Kingdom of Oross that had the Velts for neighbors who never allowed any Cren Army to march into their lands unless it was to ambush it. Veltic Clans along the borders of Oross would always suffer the bantering of the Lords near them whose sons demanded land from them. That always became an issue when the clansmen tried to forge an alliance with the Kingdom of Oross, which appeared to be ruled by the Lords instead of the Royal Family of Senmar. Thousands of Cren warriors were known to venture through those areas and claimed them for Cren. Oross’ borders no longer ended at the Vorgod River where they would arrogantly clashed with the Velts whose people made every member of a village a warrior or a druid. Olverd’s heritage was not known to her nor did he wish to share it with the likes of her.

They both got out of his bed at the same time and dressed for the day. It felt strange being at sea for so long and having no word from your homelands except what the enemy told you. All the while she was aware of Amber’s triumph with the Veltic Clansman who was engaging Orossians and Cren warriors. She saw this her dream and believed most of her childhood friends were dead to her along Amber’s former friends who introduced her to nobles from the Isseult Kingdoms, Camiss, Manol, Ontassi, Adorcene and the single Isseult Kingdom on the dagger shaped island. She felt connected to Amber ever since they met in Etras and went on adventures together.

Senestra wanted to reach out to her, but had no way of communicating unless she wrote to her and sent it through the Crowsian colonies. She rushed down to her own quarters passing hand maidens and wenches on her way down the steep steps everyone kept forgetting existed. As she came down the steps she found Leliin and Triaunes locked with each other. The two love birds seemed so happy together. It made her feel lonely inside. Her mind went straight to Leothrad who must’ve been ending the battle with the Cren forces by now. Looking away she passed the two lovebirds to the hall that led to her quarters.

When she opened the door neither Crone nor Mage was present. Not even the pupil who slept with them fearing her Master’s wrath and obsession with her. Senestra spotted the bedside table she never used and had shoved in the corner. She had some of the crew members unbolt it from the floor. Her feet took her to the table and she opened the drawer and found a piece of parchment along with some charcoal to write with.

Olverd's Business Chapter

“Beware of the reefs in these seas Captain Olverd.” Visdiar warned Olverd as he manned the helm of the Lessiiv. Five days passed since Ceinius was shunned silently by Levanna. Silan slept with Levanna and Senestra for protection. Visdiar became her new teacher while Adugar suffered Ceinius’ wrath verbally. As they continued on the course the Veeks chose some of the Crowsian and Veek vessels broke off from the convoy to their home colonies.

The number of ships that escorted them decreased down to ten ships. It was not easy getting to this continent called Emnos. According to the Veeks and Crowsians these seas were not safe enough to traverse alone. It was only the Angoths who dared voyage these waters alone. He had sailed around the continent of Auxmire to the most eastern ports of Anvadas and Earnosai. His ship and crew had to sail through Makool territories. He had forgotten about the Makool until he was on Kruskor Island. The Ipama were something entirely new to him unless they were cousins of the fury beasts in Gierno. Senestra did not care to listen to his stories, she seemed more interested in this Leothrad character.

Olverd expected her to go for someone more subtle and political, a noble from one of the independent states or the Civid Kingdoms. His mind returned to the task of following the Veeks who seemed to steer in a northward course.

“The Veeks will be entering the Polasian Reefs. They are islands and pillars of the sea that stretch a thousand leagues wide and long. Further north you’ll find Veek colonies or trading posts. If you go further west you will likely find Angoth outposts set up along the edges of the reefs. Somewhere deep within those reefs lurk pirates, and other foul creatures that will attack your vessels in the night. It would be wiser if we moved with the Veeks. Who knows what dangers lay waiting to the center and the south.” Visdiar finished as Jethaam joined them at the stern.

“What should we do besides follow the Veeks? How much further are we to the reefs?” Olverd asked turning to the wise Crone.

“It varies, depending on where you approach the cluster of reefs you may find yourself in the southern portion with out knowing it or closer to one of the Veek colonies. You’d know if you were getting closer to the Veeks.” She turned her head up looking at him. Visdiar’s eyes showed she had been here many times before.

Olverd was a man who usually questioned old people’s opinions and knowledge. But after experiencing what he experienced on that island changed that part of Captain Olverd. He looked at her in return then asked.

“When a ship approaches the reefs would it be wiser to moor some distance away from the reefs?” Olverd asked Visdiar.

“Yes and no, my reasoning would be from experience. As a child I traveled with Veek, Crowsian and Angoth scholars through the central part of the reefs. There we came across some nasty Goblin Pirates who attacked us in the night. A foolish Crowsian that Captain was, or was he from a colony? Does not matter, however the Pirates were pursued by Veek navies who were hunting the ones that boarded us. I guess you know what happened after that. Another time was when we stopped closer to the southern parts.” She rolled her eyes and cackled happily.

“The Captain was some Makool Hybrid trying to separate himself from other Makools. You will find more of that kind once we are through. Anyway the Captain had connections with the Pirates in the area and raised his own banner which held his trademark over the masts of his ship. He believed it would ward the pirates off if they knew it was him. The damned fool stopped very close to the reefs about several hundred leagues south from the outer reefs. Somehow the pirates spotted us and went straight after us. Ah that must be the part of the reefs I am telling you about now. Ceinius, tell the Captains to stop here now. We are getting near the Polasian Reefs.”

Ceinius raised a hand and twelve fiery birds sprouted out of his sleeves and went to the other ships. Two of the birds flew in separate directions, one went to the north west, the other went north east. It moments the ships stopped raising their sails and commanding the oars to cease. The Lessiiv stopped as well surrounded by ten Veek vessels as the day was becoming dusk once the sun dipped down in the west.

Olverd squinted as he looked past the ship in front of his and caught a glimpse of some land masses so far away. He nodded his head trusting the Crone’s judgment and experience. His loins ached as his gaze turned to Senestra who was staring in his direction expecting another bet she would lose this time around. A Veek swimmer climbed aboard with a message from the Captain. We must press on or well be caught in a storm that is brewing in the south. It read the message was not to Levanna’s or his liking.

“The storm is four days away! We’ll be at the nearest Veek trade-post by then!” proclaimed Levanna with a fury of four deities. Her eyes pierced the Veek who shrunk before her as she yelled at him.

“My lady…there are goblin pirates in these waters.” The Veek protested.

“That may be, but most pirates are too busy with lone trading cogs, or skiffs that venture towards the center!” Visdiar stated.

“We are near the center-“, he protested to the Angoth Crone.

“It is quite obvious, now go to your Captain and tell him we are staying here until dawn. Is that clear?” Levanna barked in the Veek’s face. Olverd sat in his chair in the map room of the cabins with Jethaam in the corner twitching his tail. The two women hollering the Veek’s ear off was enough to force Isseult fishermen to abandon ship. Why do ships venture towards the center? Is it easier than the longer routes they spoke of earlier? Olverd was curious about these waters and scratched his chin pondering the thought of getting goods here. Shipping from this world to his own would be tedious but, would offer enough profits and even new crew members to fill in gaps in his own crew. He looked over at Jethaam who seemed to study the behavior of these Angoths. They’re not what you must be used to my friend? He wanted to asked but stayed the question recalling what happened to many Angoth settlements before they were forced out of Auxmire.

Senestra walked past the room and glanced at Olverd catching his gaze. She seemed to want the Captain tonight. Feeling lustful are we Emissary? A smile crossed his face as she lingered for a moment making a summoning motion to the Captain. He wanted to follow her, but was afraid the Angoths would rip him apart with words. When they were finally done biting the Veek’s head off it was past the hour of the wolf. Olverd rose from his seat feeling the pain in his legs from sitting down for so long. Without a word the Angoths left for their quarters and the Jethaam looked at Olverd then gave him a nod before retiring to his bed in the lower decks.

The Veek was sent off to his own vessel and Olverd went out of the cabins to find Senestra at the bow of the Lessiiv. It was dark outside save for the lights from the stars and moon, which was full this night. The waters were strangely calm even with the full moon. This ocean world seemed like dream to him or some rancid nightmare he couldn’t wake up from. He walked up to the nearest mast a lit a lantern to bring some more light on the deck.

He watched her figure as she seemed to be looking out into the darkness of the night. The ships around the Lessiiv creaked and moaned as they rocked around. Even the Lessiiv made the same noises in the night.

“A beautiful night isn’t it?” he asked as he approached the next mast which was the main mast of the Lessiiv. He lit another lantern then moved on to the bow of the ship his eyes still focused on Senestra not waiting for an answer.

“Yes it is Captain she said it would be a perfect time for our business together.” She replied turning to him with part of her breast exposed to him as she moved a strap over her shoulder. It was a good night for their business. His only concerns were the laws of Etras. A woman could bed any man she wanted only the man she would marry was the one who fathered her children. If was far too young or from a poor family the child was sent off to another family with no children. She would have to work hard to get her child back while that family would provide her with daily rations as she worked.

He recalled Senestra had two children already, one was eight going on nine, another was a year old. Another one and she would lose her status as a noble in the hierarchy of Etras.

“How are they when you left them?” he asked approaching her with a hard manhood.

“One was sleeping gently, the other wanted to hit me, but stayed her little hand. I feel guilty about this already.” She snapped at him.

“Who did you bed? A Lord, and some fisherman?” he asked quietly unraveling his trousers.

“A Civid Knight, who wouldn’t marry me, because I wasn’t part of the Royal family. I have him to blame for the bratty one. The other was a Groviscian.” She answered bending over for him as he entered her. Her dress was pulled over her back when he dropped his trousers.

“So you managed to bed a Hoplite? Thought all of them were married at the age of fourteen?” He responded thrusting in her back side.

“No, it was a Groviscian Peltast who visited my chambers on the day he was to leave for the fronts in Morvan. There is no doubt he is fighting the Cren Order.” She replied as he continued to thrust. He felt himself deep in her as she gave out grunts of pleasure with each thrust. Olverd watched her hands grip the railing digging her nails no doubt biting her own lip. It felt as though he couldn’t stop the desires he had for her took over completely and he grabbed her buttocks and thrust more ferociously. Senestra let her cries of pleasure be heard for some time until he came in her.

His seed went in her bringing an end to their business. He remembered telling him the Civid Knight wouldn’t marry her for second reason. The fools obsession over a feud between his own family and another. It was some conflict that began generations ago, but was insignificant compared to their mission.

“By the way I won another bet this morning.” She turned her head and gave him an evil eye that spelled hatred for him.

“You fool! Are you really going to give her another child or are you going to let her clear out your dirty seed?” a voice fussed at him. He looked up to see the source of the voice. It was some woman holding onto the side of the ship as she leaned over the rail.

“Tell me you’re not a mermaid.” Both of them pleaded as the woman rested a fist under her chin.

“As a matter of fact, yes!” She grinned at the two of them. “An Emissary and a Captain and Smuggler. Hmm, quite an interesting match.” The mermaid said inclining her head at them.

“There are pirates headed your way thought you’d might want to know.” The mermaid turned to face the ship in the front. Olverd listened closely as he picked up his trousers and put them back on. He heard the sounds of blades being drawn and dozens of feet on the floorboards of the decks. Olverd looked over his left shoulder and saw shadows climbing aboard the ship next to theirs. He heard numerous things climbing aboard his ship in moments he glimpsed shadows stepping on the decks of the Lessiiv.

That was when a horn blew and he heard someone yell, “TO ARMS!” Every ship erupted with a clash of war cries and clash of weapons. Hoplites aboard every ship pounced on the Goblins save for two which became overwhelmed forcing the ones nearby to fire on them. One was set ablaze burning crew members and the enemy alive. Olverd heard a roar from behind him and two bodies thud on the deck. He saw more shadows move out of the cabins and attack the goblins that came aboard. One swung at him but he punched the goblin in the face. It fell back hitting another behind it. Its weapon clattered on the floor. Behind him he heard the mermaid scream for the Goblins to get off her.

“No, no , no, you get off me you filthy creature… OW no no no no. Don’t you dare-“ her voice was replaced with a grotesque sound of something being viciously humped and slammed into the wood repeatedly. More Goblins appeared on the other side as Senestra screamed and rushed towards the cabin the dark passing his crew and others coming out to fights. Realizing he was in a battle Olverd knocked another Goblin to the floor then groped for its weapon.

He swung it at the legs of a third goblin when three fire bolts collided with three goblins turning them to ashes. Three more fire bolts were thrown at the Goblins before they knew what or who was attacking them in response. Olverd struck down on his victim then cut another one down before he saw Jethaam and other Vah Shir cut the Goblins aboard his ship to pieces. It was difficult to see in the dark despite the stars and light from the lanterns. Gripping his new weapon Olverd felt it was an axe and struck down on a fifth kill embedding the axe head into the Goblin’s skull.

 “Are there more of them?” he yelled when he noticed his decks were clear of living Goblins. He no longer heard the slamming or grotesque sounds anymore instead he heard the sounds of battle and the crackle of fire aboard three of the Veek vessels. Everyone watched as two of the Lessiiv’s escorts sank to the bottom taking multiple enemies with them to a watery grave.

Evados the Innocent Chapter

The barge’s cabin appeared more like a bed chamber or some pleasure house. Drapes and Valances hung from the ceiling cutting off parts of the room into sections. Cushions lay all over the floor boards making it appear comfortable. Candles lined the walls with glass protecting them from the wind and keeping the flames from the hanging decorations.



A bald demon stepped out from behind a curtain with a woman on it. He glared at Leothrad with oval yellow eyes under thin eyebrows. His face was half milk white and the other gray and grotesque. The demon was clad in red robes and silks from the Far East beyond the domain of the Cren Order.



"His eminence does not permit you inside barbarian." He said in a commanding voice that did not stop Leothrad who proceed forward. When the demon saw the Angoth did not do as he was told he grew fearful and backed away. "Do not step any closer or the-"



"The guards are already dead demon." Leothrad snapped cutting him off. He was inches from the demon’s nose staring into the yellow eyes he was raised and taught to hate and despise. There were exceptions if a human had yellow eyes they were to live. He came across plenty with those types of eyes.



"What does his eminence want with the Erno Seas. There is nothing here nor what is beyond it." Leothrad stated crossing his arms. Another voice emerged, younger and male.



"Barbarian warrior I do not wish to harm your people, please kill this fool and spare my life." The young voice said from behind a curtain. The demon was aghast at hearing those words. He turned to the curtain behind him desiring mercy.


"Please you eminence, I was faithful to you, and served you well. Your ancestor Cren will understand!"



"I am not Cren I am Evados the Innocent, I am well known for my kindness to all except those who willfully worship my ancestor who claimed to be a god! Barbarian what is your name?" Evados asked Leothrad.



"I am Leothrad, Champion of the Angoths, here to capture you and your vessel as a prize." Leothrad told him honest and true.



"Then that shall be a fate I am willing to accept. Proceed to killing Amios. He is no longer of any use to me." Evados said as though it were his very last command.



Leothrad grabbed the demon named Amios by the neck and proceed to squeeze the air from his lungs. Amios was drained of life as he gasped for air. His bod felt limp in Leothrad’s grip after squeezing for several minutes. He dropped the demon on the floor and went up to the curtains where Evados was hiding.



When he pushed the curtain aside the Champion found a young human looking youth of about sixteen or seventeen. He had no facial hair or hair on his head. There were no eyebrows over his eyes either. Evados was dressed in a silk red robe with a fur lining at the collar. His hands adorned rings that looked like nails giving the impression that he had golden and silver claws. An ivory crown sat on his head like a circlet. He was seated with his legs crossed on a cushioned thrown that looked more like a couch. Evados looked up to face the Angoth who came to claim his prize both him and the barge.



"The battle is still going on, but I will protect you from now on." Leothrad told him. He squatted next to the descendant of the proclaimed deity and looked at his face.

Evados looked more childlike than a young adult. That was due to his lack of hair and facial hair. Leothrad wanted information from him nonetheless even if he had the appearance of a child.



"I need to know what the Cren Order is up to. You will tell me this for the fleet is defeated and starting to scatter, and your vessel is mine now." Leothrad told him.



"I will tell you everything you need to know." Evados said eager to tell the Angoth.



"What is the Cren Order doing this far west?" was Leothrad’s first question.



"They were originally chacing after an Adorcene vessel known as the Lessiiv. It has the Emissary named Senestra Medryn of the Etrasian Kingdom. A servant called Zeknam the worst servant of my ancestor was sent to retrieve her with fifty ships." Evados said looking worried for Senestra.

Leothrad smiled at this dropping his gaze to the floor as he recalled Zeknam. He looked up at the Descendant. "Zeknam is dead, what is left of that fleet is with you and nearly destroyed."



"Now why was this large fleet sent here?" Leothrad asked grabbing a pillow and placing it underneath him. Evados did not object to this, since this was no longer his ship.



"It was my father’s doing. He and my uncles and grand sires who ordered for a large fleet be sent once word reached them about the Etrasian Emissary searching for Kingdoms to band together against the Cren Order." Evados said wishing none of it were true.



"Why did they send you?" Leothrad asked him.



"I was a descendant, an idol representing Cren himself. They believed it would inspire the priest to spread the influence of the Cren Order and encourage the forces to fight harder. My own father thought it would bring more to the Order’s ranks." Evados looked as though he wanted to cry and throw himself over the barge and into the sea.


"My request to you is for you to kill me!" Evados begged grabbing for the kopis.



"No you are too important to us. Your life is valuable I will keep you alive." Leothrad informed him clear on his decision.



"The line of Cren must die if you are to destroy it. Start with me at least!" Evados yelled.

Several people stormed into the cabin and approached them. Evados looked at them hoping they would kill him. Leothrad turned to see it was Borix, and Ilkabad with three Angoths behind them.



"The battle is over, the Cren fleet is scattering and crashing into each other! Come see!" Ilkabad cried to Leothrad with enthusiasm.



Leothrad rose and exited the cabin of the barge, leaving Evados in the care of the other warriors. He walked around to the stern part of the barge taking a look at the scene Ilkabad told him about. It was true the Cren Fleet was breaking up and scattering in a hurry to return home in defeat. Thousands of prisoners were freed and took over scores of ships. He watched as the ships crashed into each other causing more to sink to the bottom. One galley tried to back up as it turned left its bow smashed against the hull of the galley next to it ripping into it. Another rushed its oars crashing into another that was just coming out of the formation. Each one sustained too much damage and began their descent to the bottom. In his mind he hoped those were mostly demons and spawn drowning and not enslaved peoples of Auxmire.



He turned to find Ilkabad and Borix behind him with a score of recently freed slaves. "Ensure our captive is secure and alive. We are sailing home."