A Good Night Murder

One night Martin comes back to the cottage from chopping. He is still holding the axe when he comes into a room. Hovering above Sammy, who is asleep, Martin has dark intentions for his housemate. Martin acts like he cannot break due to asthma. He wakes up Sammy asking where his inhaler was. Sammy notices Martin had been cutting up wood and had an asthma attack or so it seemed to him. Sammy helps Martin by giving him his inhaler which was on the desk. Martin takes a few breaths and puffs from the inhaler stemming the asthma a little. He then waits for a perfect moment. Sammy goes back to bed telling Martin good night. Martin just stands there with the axe in one hand and the inhaler in the other. As he says good night in return Martin strikes Sammy with the axe.

Keys to the Universe

It was on the 4th of July when Seth got into a huge wreck. He sat at the intersection not paying attention to an oncoming car coming in from the left. Seth blindly pressed the accelerator driving forward. His car was smashed into by a speeding car at 70 miles an hour. The collision totaled his car and the other driver's car. Seth has just survived the collision or so he thinks. He believes he was flung out of the car and proceeds to walk to his car not noticing his own body in the driver's seat. Looking around he sees how bad the collision was the other car plowed through a fence and sat in the front lawn of a red house. Its front was dented and smashed to oblivion. He looked over at his car seeing it had been spun around by the impact.


He sits down trying to remember what happened not getting anything except the past, the distant past of his life. While he contemplates what happened or tries to remember the Grimm Reaper appears out of the woods and stands beside him. Seth looks startled to see the Grimm Reaper appear before him. He had never thought he would see the Grimm Reaper ever in his life. To him the Grimm Reaper was just made up, some myth or urban legend someone came up with to mess with people. The Grimm Reaper held a ring of many keys in his hand and the well known Scythe.


"Hi am  I dead or some crud?" Seth asked the Grimm Reaper. "What am I saying I am not dead I am no-"


The Grimm Reaper slapped him across the face with a bony hand. Seth fell the ground from the slap but not feeling a thing. It was as though some invisible force slapped him and no pain came after it. Seth rubbed his cheek expecting to see blood on his hand and fingers. To his surprise he didn't see any blood. He did not shed any blood at all. This confused him quite a bit.


"Wait that did not hurt? So that means..." He looks into his car to see his own body, his corpse in his car. "Holy Moly I am Dead!"


"Keep calm, just calm the heck down." the Grimm Reaper said in a cool strange voice.


"You are not the only one to freak out, but you are one lucky son of a bitch! See these keys these are Keys to the Universe." Grimm showed to Seth's face.


"Uh okay what do you want me to do with the keys?" Seth asked feeling dull about this situation.


"These Keys I will hand to you which you will take in exchange for bringing you back to life." Grimm explained to Seth.


"You can do that?" Seth asked the Grimm Reaper. He scratched his head unsure about this.


"Let me show you." The Grimm Reaper said picking out a key. He pushed it into the air and a door appeared. Grimm put the key in the lock and unlocked it. The Reaper pulled open the door to show Seth a doorway to some strange world. This world looked completely alien to him it was like a mixture of love craft, and a sci fi film.


Speechless Seth took the keys agreeing to take them. He looked at the Grimm Reaper who explained the instructions to him. Seth listened as best as he could as the fire trucks, ambulance, and police arrived along with a dozen or more eyewitnesses and those who heard the collision. For some reason he heard the Grimm Reaper loud and clear. His task was to sell the keys to someone will to buy them while he was back to life. Once the Grimm Reaper was finished he snapped his bony fingers and Seth found himself back in his own body being taken out of the car. In his hands was the ring with the keys to the universe. Seth was take to the hospital where he recovered a few months later. Once he was out of the hospital Seth goes to a college town where he graduated from.


At this college town Seth explored the town in search of someone to sell it to. He looked at all the people whom he wished to sell it to on a whim. Something inside him kept him from selling these random people. One Wednesday Seth walked on the sidewalk feeling it was going to be hopeless until he bumped into a freshman named Dave. The two of them introduced each other. Dave's gaze went straight to his keys which he asked Seth about.


"What's with the Keys?" Dave asked Seth.


"Oh these Keys well you are not going to believe where these keys will take you!" Seth said to Dave. He picked one of the keys and proceeded to open a door before explaining to Dave what the keys did. Instead he chose to show what the keys did.

The Eternal Break

Every Saturday was a day off for Soren who was a Herder for a wealthy land owner. All days of the week he had to tend to the land owner's flocks. From Dawn to dusk he would watch over the flocks of his land owner. His payment was enough food to live on and little coin. On his day off he was allowed to take the day off. He would leave the flocks to the care of a few youth who in the town nearby. Not too far from the flocking lands and the town was an abandoned temple dedicated to some long forgotten deity.
Soren found this temple when he was just a youth of fifteen years of age. The temple rested on the edge of the outskirts and the border of his land owner's property. At first he did not know who or what this deity was. He asked the locals about the temple who would answer for him to stay away from the old ruin. To them it was nothing but a pile of rubble. A few had seen this temple but never approached it like he had. Others said there was no temple there only a pile of stones and rocks overlapping the other. Soren ignored their advice and went back to the temple anyways. He had been visiting this temple for thirty years. Each visit to this temple he brought an offering to the temple.


What he did not tell people or his employer was what he discovered inside this temple. In the far back of the temple stood a statue depicting a female deity. This deity appeared beautiful, curvy, and buxom in comparison to women he had seen. Soren almost turned the temple into a second home until voice stopped him. Although he was young and hardly listened to anyone Soren listened to this voice which came from the statue. This voice from the statue was that of a long lost deity whose name was not to be spoken of to those outside the temple. Soren obeyed this voice after this deity showed its power to him by moving fallen pillars, and furniture around in the air. Scared out of his mind Soren agreed to serve this deity until the end of his days.


On the day he visited the deity Soren brought food some days, trinkets his employer would leave lying around or gifted to him. There were visits the deity would command him to bring a member of the flock both old and young. When ever he returned to the temple none of these offerings would be on the altar. Not ever the remains of the livestock he brought were there. He did notice some changes to the temple. It appeared to have repaired and cleaned itself slowly over the course of thirty years.


It was a Saturday on the eve of a full moon four months after an eclipse when Soren returned again. The temple looked much cleaner and far more repaired than when he first discovered it. Whatever furniture was left stood on stone legs and had cushions on them. Banners hung from the ceiling with depictions of strange symbols and creatures he had never seen before. None of them looked like those from his world each one appeared odd and abnormal as if they had no single shape. Something inside Soren said there was something wrong. He looked at the statue which looked far more beautiful than he first encountered.
"Welcome back Soren my sweet." the deity's voice said welcoming him.


"Thank you my lady statue of the old world. I come seeking your approval of something." Soren said to his new found god.


"Go on Soren you are my precious follower." the voice said to him in a strange voice.


"I seek a wife." Soren said full of hope yet shook with fear. There were times his deity would deny him some things. However this time he felt more confident in asking for a favor. After all he did take care of his deity and brought it back to life. A few days before he saw a gorgeous girl he sought to make as his beloved wife. Over the years he grew lonely despite the amount of company he would occasionally get on the field next to the road.


"A wife, a wife? Am I not beautiful enough for you Soren?" the deity shrieked at him with fury. An angry apparition of a woman emerged from the statue. It flew straight after him with fury and anger. Soren backed away in few trying to get out of the temple. As he turned to exit two stones moved to block to doorway. Soren stopped in his tracks with nowhere to run. He dropped down on to his knees with his has clasped together.
"Please my deity let me live! I will not bring another woman into my heart! Give me another chance dear goddess! Soren will not fail you, I have brought gifts to you my whole life." Soren begged the deity to spare him and give him another chance to serve the lady statue.
The apparition walked around him eyeing him closely. She circled him multiple times like a predator ready to pounce upon its target. She did not do anything but circle around him with her eyes on him. Below his knees he felt the floor shift as if it was opening underneath him. Moments later the ground felt wet, meaty, warm, and something breathed on him. He looked down so see what had become of the floor below his body. To his horror and surprise a strange beast with nothing more than a maw had him in its mouth. Its jaw full of razor sharp teeth. For arms it had tendrils wrapping around his body. Three tongues clutched his limbs and torso pulling him further inside its belly while its tendrils pushed him down. Soren was devoured inside the abandoned temple which he had awoken after eons of slumber.

Arnos the Airman

Lasnile, Vullanese Empire

It is now the year 1841 in the Vullanese island of Lasnile. War was just declared between the Vullanese Empire and the Vestrisian Union of the Vestrisian Republics. Vullan was not alone in this war against the Vestrisian Union. Vullan allies such as Nymres, the Kingdom of Vidothra, Gontrella, Muskalla, Arqolith, Vodwania, various states, and the vast land of Ossus. He knew they had other allies except their names slipped from his mind. That was mainly because he never heard of their names and they were part of some larger empires. Fighter Pilot or Airman Arnos Bennius adjusted his jacket and gloves while the crews prepared the aircraft.

Inside the hangar were forty or so aircraft and seventy pilots getting ready to engage the Vestrisians in the skies. Most of these pilots never flew a plane except for thirteen of them including Arnos who became an ace in a recent conflict against Al-Dadoria. It is not because they had no training on how to fly these new recruits were pulled out of their training to refill the ranks and learn from combat. The Al-Dadorian conflict was a brief conflict that only lasted three months. Vullanese Priests and their bearers entered the hangar. All the pilots, officers, guards, crews, and of course the slaves lined up. Each one of them got down on one knee as the the religious men approached. In their decorative religious robes the priests performed the ritual of praying to their god for safety and protection from death. Arnos was never religious since he saw the most devout followers and pilgrims die horrible deaths. When the priests finished the pilots raced to their aircraft eager for action.

He rushed to his bird shaped X-75 Seahawk that had two guns, a nice cockpit, a fine engine, sturdy wings, good tail, and a nice paint job. Climbing in he nearly kicked one of the hangar crew members who was at the bottom of their caste system. He started up the engines at the same time as his fellow pilots. Arnos switched ever thing on and put his helmet on ready to fly after the Vestrisians. Their leader Squadron Captain Nicholas Parson-Mannius' voice emerged in the intercom.

“Listen up airmen this will be a quick briefing. The Vestrisians have sent a wave of their Lacothah bombers escorted by their small one man Basilisks. We are not the only squadron flying after this wave. My advice men don't feel pressured....” Mannius' voice went on about their mission before their aircraft began to take off. In groups of five their new Seahawks took off from the runway, climbing up in altitude. At a space of half a mile in between each group the Vullanese airmen made lift off then formed up in positions. Arnos heard the names of his fellow airmen report their names for duty. He heard the names Penrose, Ratigez, Agrippe, Graydogson, Black, Joris, Vortus, Imanius, Grakus, Nethersole, Anvils, Steelius, Concore, Fordwill, and Kenns along with other names before he himself reported in.

Several minutes of flying brought them over the landscape of Lasnile. Much of it was fertile green fields in the northern parts full of green grass, and rolling hills. In the south it was dryer and full of savanna and beaches. The island had plenty of towns, villages, and a score of major cities. To many Lasnile was flowing in much needed resources to sustain a population. Some say there were more people on this island than all of Castaria. Those rumors are just exaggerations yet many like to believe that. Arnos returned his attention to the skies with his wing mates around him in attack formation. He could see them approaching the seas while flying. It was as if they were in a dream. They passed several clouds with most of the clouds still above them. He felt at peace just sitting in the cockpit watching the clouds go by and the sea come closer as Lasnile went under him. Arnos recalled their mission briefing as he saw explosions and shooting dot the seas below. The explosions and firing appeared like small fire flies or sparks from this distance. A battle occurred in between two islands divided between the Union and their glorious Vullanese Empire.

His squadron, along with five other squadrons of aircraft, were to engage the Vestrisians and stop them from bombing the last defense on one portion of a particular island that still held on, Vullan's half of Izvar. The island next to it, Mothgar, was overrun months before 1841 started. In the middle of the year 1841 the longest portion of Vullan's half of Boathrin Isles was being overrun. Izvar's loyal defenders at her very end were holding on for dear life. As one single unit their squadrons moved southeast by 120 degrees towards the Vestrisian lines. Arnos looked around him at the gathered aircraft. More than two hundred and more Vullanese airmen flew in a formation that forged a blade shape.

For an hour the flew onward in their formation to the portion nicknamed the Drooping Earlobe that was now the last section of Vullanese territory on that island. When they came within twenty miles of their destination the wave of Vestrisian aircraft could be seen along with the smoke from flak and AA guns. All the black smoke made it appear more like a dark cloud with flies all over it. Several planes fell out of the formation from all the flak and AA fire. Arnos watched this wave of Vestrisian aircraft head towards their target as he and his squadrons flew at full speed. He gripped his steering while placing one hand over the unlocking latch to his aircraft guns. A minute passed before the two forces met in the air. Every one of his fellow airmen were surprised to see these large Lacothah aircraft were really troop carriers that already dropped their load. Scores of Basilisk 94's came zooming towards them firing rapidly on them. This forced them to break formation and engage the enemy in a dogfight.

“Okay Arnos you can do this.” Arnos said to himself flying to the left to get a good target. “You've done this before in a different war.”

As he veered left bullets and aircraft flew all over the skies. He did not know if they were winning or losing. The only thing he sees now is a single Basilisk that shot at a fellow airman. Arnos gave chase trying to get a good lock on him. In pursuit he fired a few shots that missed. He fired again hitting the tail. His shooting did a little bit of damage, but not enough to bring it down. Arnos pressed on the trigger letting loose a huge spray sending the Basilisk crashing down. His next target was harder as it moved performing what looked like a dance. Persistent he went after it shooting wildly until the craft went down.

As he searched for a third target he heard voices and screams along with shouts. Each voice came from his own squadron who were engaging the Vestrisians. It hit him all at once just hearing the continuous yelling, chatter, and screaming that he must have drowned out during the fight. Since the engines were close and there was a lot of noise going on it would be hard to hear voices. Mannius' voice entered his ear over the intercom.

“Bennius, Bennius, Arnos Bennius fall on me, fall on me!” the Captain roared at him through the intercom.

“Captain sir, with all do respect that will only make us a big target!” Arnos argued sending a few sprays of bullets at D-5 that roared away from him. He maneuvered his own Seahawk around as much as the wind and the altitude would allow him. Several craft took shots at him. He felt the impact and heard it as well as his craft jolted a little from the hits.

Having to move around in search of a safe position was near impossible. In the midst of his flying around he caught glimpses of enemy and ally falling from the sky with smoke coming out. By the time he found his fellow squadron in a formation the Vestrisians were already gunning them down. This was all Mannius' fault who wanted to stay in formation. That did not matter anymore, because the Vestrisians had deceived them, outmaneuvered them, outgunned and out manned them in the skies.

Only twenty or so of his fellow airmen survived the dogfight. They now had the D-5's in pursuit picking them off one at a time. It as a small force whereas the rest flew back to base to refuel. These aircraft may have been beasts but there was still a way to shoot one down. Just as he got them partially in his sights his Seahawk was hit by three Basilisk 94's. Smoke and fire appeared on his plane as it began to fall to the world. He acted quickly preparing to parachute out of the aircraft. Before ejecting the allowed a few moments of falling then pulled the eject lever and he was out.

Commando Part 34

Being bound to a bed Maurice had nothing to do. All he really could do was calm down, relax, and gather his thoughts. Hilastes, and Amonif stayed in the room to watch over him only letting him out of the bonds to let him drink, eat, and relieve himself when nature called. Four days of this went by until they decided it was time to let him out of his bonds. Maurice spent a full day stretching his legs and going for a stroll up and down the trail and the main road for six miles. He returned to the fort to discover a party of travelers among some families hugging the doorway.

When he got closer the commando noticed the travelers were twelve soldiers and these families appeared to be exiles or refugees running away from something. They were talking to Kanuna who then pointed to him as he approached. At his approach the whole party turned their attention to him. Maurice introduced himself as Lieutenant Viyamor of the Vestrisian Expeditionary Forces. He told them briefly about his mission, welcoming these soldiers and civilians alike into the comforts of these fort. Due to him having the same rank as Vincent he had shared authority over the fort until another higher rank came along. Twelve soldiers revealed themselves to be Vestrisians as well to the Lieutenant giving their ranks and names. Most of them were Corporals, and Privates whereas two of them were Sergeants. Commanding them was Captain Mekker. Maurice led them inside quickly as the civilians begged to enter the safety of the fort.

Letting this group of soldiers and people inside allowed for more information to be revealed. His comrades brought the high-ranking officials to the room where Vincent was and hit them with various questions. Maurice joined his fellow officer in hearing what these Sergeants and Captain had to say. These twelve vestrisians came all the way from Oceanrest Var villages and the Khasungai. A year ago they heard rumors about this fort. Ever since they learned about this fort these soldiers of Vestrisia went on a quest meeting fellow Vestrisians and other helpful peoples. Mekker mentioned there were other Vestrisians still in the cities of Khasungai and Oceanrest Var. Hearing all of this Maurice asked where he could find these other Vestrisians.

Vincent left this to Viyamor as Mekker dismissed the Sergeants. They dispersed from the room to attend to other tasks. Both officers left the room to talk somewhere else. Maurice and the leader, Captain Mekker sat down at a table in the cafeteria. They were soon joined by Vincent who followed them inside. He explained to Mekker what happened and how Maurice found this fort. Although they were leaders themselves they still had a higher rank to answer to. One of them was a Colonel who was in the Sarcagos, and another was headed for Waikun with a mercenary leader. He also asked if they had anyone who could operate a Gantronese radio. Mekker sat up and said he knew four countrymen who could operate a Gantronese radio. He mentioned one who could get it working in a day. This was a Private who took residence in an old outpost with a cat outside the limits of Oceanrest Var. There were nine other Vestrisians residing in that city whom sent them here. For a whole year and a half they had been in contact with more countrymen residing in Khasungai.

In order to get this radio working they would have to gather more vestrisians and this private or others who knew how to fix a radio. Just before any of the others spoke the alarms sounded indicating something had gone horribly wrong or the fort was likely under attack. As though they were under attack the Vestrisians, Warriors, and mercenaries rushed to their weapons. Every one of them exited the fort interior to see what was going on. They climbed onto the walls to see a group of goons and warriors ready to assault the fort. It appeared to be a small army of two hundred of them armed with various weapons. Among these would be assailants stood Gantronese, other outsiders, some natives, Uxane warriors, dragon like warriors. Many of them were armed with melee weapons such as spears, swords, axes, clubs, bows, and other melee weapons. Plenty of them did wield rifles, and other guns.

Maurice felt confident in swift victory when several more groups arrived at the clearing around the fort. A small army of two hundred Uxane braves came out of the jungle, a gang of sixty raiders who looked more like they belonged in the city, fifty gladiators, eighty or so tattooed figures armed with sickle swords, two hundred Grussian outlaws armed with axes, seventy-two alien warriors and twenty warriors who painted themselves like skeletons. Seeing nearly a thousand warriors, braves, goons, raiders, and fighters all in the clearing would be reason to set the alarm off. Every fighter and soldier manned the walls in case this large force of gangs attacked.

To their surprise these gangs moved to different parts of the open area as if setting up pieces on a board game. Many of the smaller groups banded with each other, the larger groups or stood alone. Maurice ordered for his men and those in the fort not to open fire. He knew what was about to take place here in the jungles. This was nothing new in the Unknown Lands despite what people say. Tribe against tribe warfare, turf war it was all the same type of warfare here, over land and resources. Vincent leaned over and said there was a massive turf war going on over this particular road each year. A turf war over a road that connected Khasungai, Waikun, and Oramatra that had gone on for three years or more. . Something must have snapped inside the heads of these gathered warriors like a ticking time bomb as each group charged for an opponent on the field.

Uxane warriors, natives, Gantronese, other aliens, raiders, gladiators, tattooed warriors, Grussians, and other warriors clashed into each other, letting arrows loose, blasting opponents and engaging in melee combat. Maurice had no clue who to pull for or to even pull for any group. Chaos spread across the surface around the fort with multiple armies battering, slaying and shooting each other. He just watched the battle and slaughter last more than ten minutes. Like a spectator watching a match or a tournament Maurice observed the conflict that had unfolded before the walls of the fort. Various warriors, goons, outlaws, fighters, and ex-soldiers killed multiple foes before getting killed in return. The process repeated itself as fresh meat engaged fresh meat and veteran alike on the field.

A full hour with more combatants pouring into the fight representing each faction. Five hundred more warriors who appeared vying for the Gantronese came out of the jungles. Three hundred and more pirates escaping the law as outlaws poured out of another part of the jungles The two forces pressed for each other engulfing small pockets of fighting into their own mass of flesh. Not caring at all about the clutter of bodies or wounded the two new forces clashed. It became the same result quickly only the two forces pressed against the other back forth.

Many of the Uxanes, and native groups began to retreat out of the battle as well as handfuls of Grussians, and other combatants who pulled out of there. Many of them scattered into the jungles while others raced for the trail and road. He watched thirteen Grussians carrying their comrades make a run for it. They were intercepted by another force made up of Uxane warriors dressed in what appeared to be uniforms. Behind them were other native warriors with a force of one hundred ninety-two, following one hundred fifty Uxanes. Vincent muttered in his ear that these warriors were Waikun soldiers, followed by Utsali tribesmen. As he said this another force came rushing up the road. He then tells Maurice the Khasungai had arrived. The Khasungai came in with a force of one hundred seventy. Both new arriving armies made quick of any retreating combatant on the road. These forces stopped to allow the opposing forces to kill each other off while dealing with those who fled their way. Any of the combatants who fled into the jungles would be dealt with by the jungle itself.

Discovery

Having friends join you on an adventure made things more interesting, fun, and brought more to the table. There was a saying that went the more the merrier. What most don't usual mention when exploring with a group is having to play babysitter, or at least keeping up with everyone. Reporter George Newman got out of the large jeep with Cameron the journalist still in the back seat, their driver Morgan at the wheel shutting off the engine, Kate and Phil were just now waking up after the long ride.

“This looks like the place.” George said taking a look around they had stopped at.

The day had gone into late evening with the sun setting to the west behind the hills and trees. Demon's Claw or Draconic Peninsula rested on the southern coast with the sea running between the claw shaped peninsula like water between fingers. Here Journalist/Explorer Cameron and Reporter George hoped to find the place where so many people had gone missing over the past three decades. George was skeptical about bringing Kate and Phil along at first. These two had been here numerous times since the academy years. For years these two kept coming over here despite dangers, and the history of people disappearing around the area.

“Let's just hope we don't catch the eye of the authorities.” Phil said looking over his shoulder half expecting someone to be there.

“Pppfffff like they even know we are here! The only authorities that exist in this part are mostly three Rangers, a hermit, and a couple coo coo druid wannabes!” Morgan scoffed at Phil's overly comprehensive ideas.

“Go choke on it!” Phil snapped back at Morgan.

George shook his head wondering why they brought them along. He actually wanted it to be him, and Cameron at first. Yet with just the two of them it would end up in some form of catastrophe. A catastrophe they would get tired of each other quickly, and neither of them had their licenses. Both went speeding through a few villages and local residential complexes catching the eye of the authorities. That was several weeks ago right after the latest disappearance of a Barber's son who went hiking here all alone. The nearest village was just four miles away to the west.

“Guys, guys just cool it there is no need to raise our voices over that issue. If any Rangers or the like approach us we will handle it and say we're on our way to Everwoods Hall where the Baron is hosting a festival, again.” George said hoping to get them to shut up already. He walked towards the direction of the rock formation at the beginning of the claws. Where did these people disappear? George thought to himself. His mind raced with many questions as he took pictures of the landscape.

“We should start searching the “First Finger” I read an article that one of the missing was last seen heading over there.” Cameron suggested from behind George. With his camera George snapped a picture of Cameron then turned around to get another of Kate and Phil. Morgan was in the background next to the Jeep having a smoke.

“Okay is every one ready?” Cameron asked shouldering his back pack.

“Yep!” Kate said cheerfully.

“Yeah, I am ready.” Phil said walking to where George stood.

“I am ready as well!” Morgan shouted as he approached the group.

“Yes I am.” George replied.

“Then let's go down that trail!” Cameron said with a gusto of excitement.

He led the group off the dirt road where they parked the jeep to a trail marked with stones, pebbles, and smoothed out rocks. Some of them had the shape of roaches whereas the rest had abstract shapes, and the typical shapes of rocks. For several minutes the five friends took the trail towards a patch of wooded area on the knuckles of the peninsula. The trees gave off a weird atmosphere that said they were hiding something together. It felt a little eerie, but not as eerie as a haunted place, or a graveyard. Being in an eerie place like that made his skin crawl a little. Just being around the dead scared him enough. What never helped with anyone conjuring that sort of fear were the dead rising, wandering zombies, and those flesh eating ghouls that prowl around. An hour passed in their hike on the trail and the trees started to changed forms. They became gnarled, knobby, and started to form arms and hands out of branches.

George's excitement had disappeared an hour ago when they came to the eerie part of this trail. Was it the fact that people disappeared in this part of the peninsula or was it the woods? He desired to be in a cottage or in the safety of his own apartment where he knew everyone and the streets. To his own dismay he chose to come here it was as though he changed his mind about this ordeal.

He looked around at Kate, Phil, Cameron and Morgan who showed no sign of fear at all as they progressed further into these woods. George's focus went from friend to friend feeling a bit more secure. Bringing them along brought more security in case something happens. After several more minutes the group of friends started talking as a way to pass the time. This trip transformed into a hike then a search since they found nothing for a whole hour.

“Where did these people go? It's not like you can easily get through those trees without tripping on roots.” Kate said looking around with a confused expression.

“Maybe there is something in these woods.” Phil suggested looking up at the barren branches almost expecting something to be there watching them.

“If it was something like a creature it would leave tracks or clues.” Morgan said.

“Well sounds like no one is going to assume it was a creature because I see zero tracks.” Kate insisted.

“Are you saying it was done by a serial killer?” Cameron asked Kate. She shrugged her shoulders in response.

“One of the victims had a hand woven piece of fabric she wore, and the rangers found it just somewhere along this path.” George said recalling what he read in early reports.

“And the kid, did they find anything of him?” Phil asked George.

“His flask, but that was about it. That was towards the beginning of the trail. Remember guys these people who disappeared were alone.” George reminded them. They acted like they did not hear him at all.

“Hey was is that over there? Look behind those trees!” Kate pointed out with a finger.

George looked at where Kate pointed further up the trail. Behind some trees lay a strange looking mound of rocks, dirt, and soil packed together. Within the mound was the mouth of what appeared to be a cave covered in moss and branches.

“It's a cave!” George shouted in disbelief. Seeing a cave here was a little strange since most caves would be found in the coast line, beaches, and the mountains. At least that is what he perceived.

He approached this cave with his traveling companions.

“Do you think this is where all those missing people went?” Kate suggested peering inside the cave. She had to step over roots and parts of the trees in front of the cave. George, Morgan, Phil and Cameron joined her in peering into a dark cave that went deep in to the earth.

Several of them got out flashlights and shined them down into the cave. The illuminating lights showed a long tunnel leading downward. In order to get down they would have to climb down a steep looking stair like ladder. It was made from some type of metal that was unfamiliar to them. This metal had a strange grayish color to it and showed signs it had been here longer than a few decades. A few places were rusting, but this ladder appeared sturdier than most rusting ladders.

“You know Kate this could be where those people went to look for safety.” Cameron said placing a hand on his head and rubbing his fingers through his hair a little.

“How many went missing again?” Phil asked looking away from the tunnel to Cameron and George.

“The figure said about eight, but I think it was really thirteen people had gone missing.” George said looking down this dark tunnel.

“Let's go then.” Kate said climbing into the cave.

One by one the several friends climbed down the ladder. Just as he suspected the ladder was a bit rusty, but it felt strange in his hands. This ladder took them down several stories deep in the earth. After several minutes of climbing down they found the bottom of the ladder making footfall on a hard even surface. Each one turned their flashlights on to get a better look at where they had ended up.

“Holy ectoplasm this is no ordinary cave it is some kind of bunker built in the earth!” Cameron exclaimed aloud. All their lights flash and illuminate the area revealing concrete walls and a tunnel that led through the earth.

“Okay this is something new I was not expecting to find a bunker in the ground.” George said looking at the walls wondering how long it had been here. His other friends were speechless and too busy looking at the walls. Leaning against the walls they found strange looking weapons that appeared to have been left there as if rendered useless.

“These are cool I wonder where they came from.” Phil said picking one up and examining it. Morgan picked one up as well then put it back down. Cameron and George took photos of the weapons and the area they were inside. Kate ran her fingers all over the walls as if studying further. Her hand must have hit something as lights flipped on shining light on the tunnel. On the floor they found the remains of someone. It lay in tattered rags nothing more than a skeleton that had been there for several years. This gave them all a start causing a few of them to jump. Kate did not scream at all she was too horrified by something else she discovered, another body on the floor against the wall. It clutched a medallion in its hands.

Cameron and George took photos of the bodies as well hoping it would be evidence for the authorities to look at. These would surely add more pieces to the puzzling mystery. However these strange weapons added more questions along with the tunnel hidden in the woods. No one said a word as they were too shocked and scared by what they just discovered. The notion to leave did not cross their minds as they were too focused on finding out the missing pieces.

“Should we go back and report-” Cameron about suggested when something down the hall caught his attention. George, Kate, Phil and Morgan looked at him with fear, worry, but the sense of curiosity winning over their fears. They made a pledge to help him and George out.

“Let's just press forward and see what else we can find.” George suggested not really believing he had just said those words. Unanimously the group decided to press on exploring this structure even further.

He did not know it was foolish to do so according to some people. Yet he still want to see what had happened to these missing people. They had most likely found two of the missing people all they had to do was find the rest or whatever could be found then race back to the jeep and go to the authorities. George was given the lead as the one who orchestrated this adventure. He cautiously made his way to whatever this object was running into cobwebs, stepping into puddles of strange coloration, and some symbols on the walls. Whatever this object was it was shiny and drew much attention. Little rats and critters crawled about it until they approached causing the creatures to scatter. What he came up to was an amulet lying on the floor. He picked it up and examined it. This amulet had the shape of a mermaid on a shell holding an emerald it her arms. George recalled the medallion that had a coin shape to it with sea like symbols all over it and a shell shape etched into its center. It seemed strange that these two would have any relations what so ever. One was found in the clutches of a missing victim and the other on the floor of the tunnel.

“What did you find?” Kate asked out of curiosity.

“An amulet of the sea or something like that.” George answered her.

“It must be an amulet depicting a goddess or one of those decorative jewelry you find in antique shops.” Morgan suggested looking over George's shoulder.

“Whatever it represents it adds a little more missing pieces, but not as much as this tunnel and those weapons back there.” Cameron insisted pointed back with his thumb.

“Okay okay, let's just go see about this tunnel then head back out okay?” George declared to the rest of the group. He pocketed the amulet then marched further down the tunnel with his friends who silently agree to come along.

Going further down this tunnel they came upon closed doors that must have lead to other rooms or tunnels. He only passed these doors not wanting to stray from the path. Behind him his friends jiggled handles and tried to get them open to no avail. They gave up allowing the exploring to continue. As they continued they came upon another corpse that looked alien to them. It appeared very dragon or lizard humanoid like with a lab coat on. In its hands was a strange looking firearm. This corpse looked to be recently dead as if dead for a few weeks. Examining it further they found puncture holes it is back, and a huge gash in its stomach as if something ripped a chunk out of this humanoid. Just across the hall from the corpse lay another corpse just like it hunched over with bullet holes in it. This one appeared to have died slowly from its wounds.

“We should definitely tell people the truth about what's been going on underneath our feet.” Kate suggested she sounded more concerned with what happened here and a little scared.

“Yeah we should, but what is the government going to tell us?” Cameron insisted to the group.

“Good idea, plus Cameron is right our government will just cover this up as if it never happened.” Morgan said scratching his head.

“And yet we still worship dragon gods, and still have toad humanoids roaming about? Our government needs to stuff it already!” Phil snapped at Morgan who was taken aback. Even though they lived in modern age on the planet of Ioculai there were still various races and species deemed to be extinct or myth living among mortals. Cameron and George took photos of these corpses as their friends went further down the tunnel. In moments the two coworkers followed after their companions.

Following the tunnel path they found an intersection as the tunnel split into three paths. One went left another went straight and the other went right. The right path looked blocked by some barricade, the one on the left appeared very dark and old, whereas the one going straight had lights flickering on and off about to go out. A door lay in the path of the straight tunnel. It looked to be opened just ajar inciting more curiosity yet hesitation.

“Hey look what I found a helmet!” Morgan cried out drawing attention from the other paths.

Sure enough Morgan picked up a helmet that appeared old, but from an advanced civilization. On its side was an octopus like figure pained red and gold. This helmet had a bowl/bell shape to it with goggles attached to it. Something sticky covered part of the helmet along with blood.

“Where did you find that helmet?” George asked Morgan who was uncertain of where he found it. Morgan turned toward the direction he picked it up and indicated with his head.

“By those corpses.” He said tossing the helmet back where he found it.

All eyes turned to the wall next to the tunnel they came in through. Five to six corpses lay on the floor against the wall bloodied, covered in stabs, holes, and had a few missing limbs. Three reptilian humanoids, and two other humanoids without noses lay on top of the other. From the way they were positioned they had engaged each other in close quarters combat before getting shot.

“Looks like a battle happened here.” Cameron observed snapping another photo with his camera.

George looked around seeing more corpses reptilian and humanoid wearing similar helmets. Many of these humanoids wielded strange rifles, katanas, and other melee weapons. The reptilians had their claws for melee weapons and smooth shaped pistols. None of them touched anything else and huddled together to figure this out.

“Okay we just came across this tunnel that appears to be a base.” Cameron started.

“And at least two of the missing people.” Morgan added.

“Some strange weapons at the beginning.” Kate put in.

“We also stumbled upon what could be the sight of a battle.” George concluded.

Phil added nothing to the conversation he looked down at the floor trying not to gaze at the corpses. He appeared sick to the stomach just from looking at the corpses. One would think the smell would be enough, but somehow he was just now noticing the stench of death. They broke their little formation to find the ajar door had swung open barely on its hinges. It revealed another tunnel leading into the earth. George flashed his light on to the left tunnel discovering even more corpses both reptilian, and this strange nose-less humanoid. Every inch of this tunnel appeared cluttered with corpses, weapons, and limbs. Just the scenery itself was enough to make you vomit. He turned to the door that swung open on its own as if the door was not on its hinges properly.

“Lets follow that tunnel we won't be able to make any headway through that one.” George suggested indicating to the corpses infested tunnel. Each one of his companions looked at the tunnel and nearly vomited, covered their mouths, and looked away immediately. They agreed to take the tunnel with the mysteriously opened door.

George and Cameron took the lead through the doorway to find it had a few corpses, but not as many as the other tunnels. Four reptilians lay face down as if shot or stabbed in the backs. Only one of these nose-less beings lay against the the tunnel wall with claw marks on his chest. It appeared as though these reptilians were trying to get away from the attacking force who gave chase through this tunnel system. Whatever war was going on under their feet in the earth of Ioculai it appeared to be over. Going through the doorway and into the tunnel George felt the wind blow past him. Feeling wind blew past you inside a tunnel meant there was another opening to the surface nearby. It felt like the wet air from the seas. He led his companions through the tunnel whose walls transformed into more earth like surface held back and kept from caving in with metal beams. It snaked through the earth bringing them further towards this opening and across more corpses and signs of fighting.

At the end of the tunnel they came to what looked like an underground submarine base with just one submarine sitting in the water. Every four to five feet lay the corpse of a reptilian or one of those nose-less humanoid soldiers. Past the sitting submarine was the massive cave opening expanding out like huge mouth gaping open ready to eat whatever entered its jaws.

“How does this go unnoticed?” Cameron cried aloud sounding pissed off and excited at the same time.

Something inside George gave him the feeling that whoever had attacked this base had not left just yet. He spied several figures exit the submarine in search of whatever noise they heard. George started to back away to the way they came in. These figures wielded rifles and looked to be on the hunt for something. As he backed away his feet stepped on something causing it to crunch. He looked down at what he stepped on. A hatched open egg lay under his feet. It looked about as big as his own head. This gave him shivers over what could possibly be that hatched from this large egg. More questions than answers entered his head as he forgot about the reason they came here.

“RUUUUNNNNN!!!” he screamed at the top of his lungs scared out of his own mind. He though to himself screw the photos, and the missing people we need to get the fuck out of here. George spun around and pushed past his own friends. He darted for the tunnel seeking to get out here when the figures started to shoot at them. Seconds later his friends raced after him hoping to get away from their pursuers. Like prey running from predators the friends raced back the way they came stepping over corpses, puddles of muck and blood. When they came to the tunnel with the ladders all the doors slowly opened and several large reptilian creatures crawled out of the rooms. Before any of them could respond, or scream these reptilian creatures were on them. George, Phil, Kate, Cameron and Morgan were ripped and torn apart with claws, and teeth as hungry reptilians feasted on their flesh. Their deaths were gruesome as these hungry monsters tore at them started to eat them alive before accidentally killing their meal with pressure from feet and a swat of the claws.

To Borvados then Payment

Getting out of there wasn't easy as they tried to slowly turn around. Although they were not close enough to mainland or islands they still had to be cautious of high reefs and shallow waters. For several minutes they tried turning around one way but gave up forced to maneuver the other way. Turning the ship around was a slow process because of the Abomination's size and length. One would think she was a battleship, a small battleship. Inaleth had to back up the large vessel with the scene of killing Gantronese and Uxane Renegades shrinking as they went away. Jenere had come across or had run ins with many dangers from blood thirsty raiders who would be mostly cannibalistic, predators of the sea to pissed off invading empires. Having traveled all over the seas Jenere's experience brought him through many dangers. He heard stories of the dead rising, vampires, demons, and the Vearxalls of Aliscar Razdor. Such stories were not heeded by him as he was too busy raiding, boarding, sinking ships, and avoiding the law of many states, and kingdoms.

However this type of undead was new to him. These unknown lands were said to consist almost unlimited horrors. Sure there were the savage tribes, and hostile natives along with beasts and dangerous predators. Some stories say there are civilizations like Kilscar Orvain that dotted the southern parts and a few kingdoms in the mountains. What the tales never told you was this concept of the dead rising from the earth from just a little blood spilled. Some form of dark magic had to be at work here or a curse upon these shores. Jenere had seen Zhenrai Knights before and heard of their powers, which did scare people. Considering they could summon specific spirits, and control them. The fact that these Zhenrai Knights could control certain ancestors or spirits gave priests the edge to ward people away from fearing them.

Jenere checked to see if Sophine was doing okay. He searched his quarters only to find it empty except for the furniture. This seemed unusual for her, Sophine would often be in his quarters. In the center of the room wedged against the wall was his low bed, to the right was his wardrobe, and dresser full of clothes. On the left side of his room Jenere had a few portraits of his family and landscapes. Below the portraits sat his large chest and working desk filled and littered with letters, charts, Atlas' and records of ship movements. He checked the right and left sides again before leaving to search her quarters. She was not there either.

For several minutes he searched for her all over the stern of the ship. He asked none of the crew members even though they might have seen her. Jenere searched other parts of the ship but never found her until he came to the mess hall. Sophine sat at one of the tables with her head down on it holding a half empty bottle of rum. She looked dead at first from the way she did not move. Scared that she might not show any signs of life Jenere walked up to her. He touched her on the arm causing her to stir a little bit. She was breathing normally, but had passed out drunk. He didn't know how long she had been like this. Sophine's breathing appeared steady as she was asleep and not drunk.

He checked to see if Sophine vomited or not. With one arm he pulled her up from the table leaning her body back in the chair. She was upright, but her own head tilted back. There were no signs that she vomited just splashes of rum on her clothes, the chair, floor and table. Jenere gave out a sigh realizing the though of being in these Unknown Lands got to her worse that it did him. He then proceeded to lift her up in his arms. Picking her up was easy and getting her into bed would be a breeze. She was light for him to carry and did not squirm or even move as he carried her in his arms. In no hurry Jenere carried her to her own quarters where he took her clothes off and dressed her in a robe to sleep in.

Once he tucked her in Jenere left the swordsman-officer. Closing the door quietly Jenere went to the crew's quarters. He passed several crew members who saluted him as he came through the corridors. Here he spotted a skinny looking crew mate who had a half orc, and half goblin appearance. This crew member was often found in the storage section of the second deck. His name was Cliff, but his crew mate name was Ugly Gurk to the whole crew.

“Cliff is it?” Jenere asked him getting the crew member's attention. The crew member looked over at him.

“Yes, but most called me Ugly Gurk, Captain sir.” The half orc, half goblin replied to his Captain. Jenere was about to speak when the half breed saluted to him. “Captain I know we are privateers now yet our piracy days brought us loot and nice ladies. I haven't had a nice set of lips on me for some time.”

As a pirate Jenere considered this as a means to bring morale back to his crew. It had been a while since they raided a few ships. He looked at the crew member wondering if the Vestrisians would allow them to raid the seas soon. Jenere thought about what Cliff said before turning down an offer from a fellow crew member.

“Where is Brucs located?” Jenere asked Cliff.

“He is actually in the wardroom, no he is in the ship's engineer's office.” Cliff replied to his Captain.

“Thanks Cliff I will head over there and I will not forget to see the crew is rewarded.” Jenere replied to the half breed then rushed towards the direction of the engineer's office. Their engineer's office was located near the center of the Abomination behind the radar room, and the command bridge. Heading over to engineers brought him through the work shop, and empty space above the fire rooms, which sat behind the engine room. Through this empty space he came to the medical storeroom, a passage, battery charging room that had smaller boat engines along the walls, the laundry room, and the galley kitchen. Due to the Abomination's size there was enough room for other rooms and extra storage space. Past the galley he came to a set of open spaces and a passage.

Here he found the engineer's office along the side of the passage. Bruc's voice echoed in the passage. The two goblin scientists voices also echoed in the passage. He did not know what was said between them, but it was certainly not an argument. As Captain he would be told this eventually yet not a single word came to him earlier about this. Whatever they were talking about it sounded more like idle talk between goblins. The scientist name Eesnec had his arms crossed discussing how they managed to connect two ships. When Jenere approached the pair of goblins they cut the conversation short as if it had been interrupted. With their conversation put to an abrupt end the two goblins turned their attention to their Captain. Both of them held their gaze onto Jenere.

“Yes Captain, what do you need?” the goblins asked the captain simultaneously. His focus was mostly on Brucs.

“I am surprised we have more crew members. Did more of your fellow crew members join us?” Jenere asked Brucs who raised both eyebrows not expecting to surprise the Captain.

“Yes we did Captain, the Vestrisians had zero room for us nor were any of them going to another port soon.” Brucs answered his new Captain.

“Since I already have a Quarter Master you will be my new Boatswain.” Jenere said to the fat goblin.

“Thank you Captain Jenere, I mean Captain Omavern sir.” Brucs exclaimed happily shaking his hand.

“You are welcome Boatswain Brucs. How are the new guests doing?” Jenere asked him.

“They are still a little shaken from the ambushes and the dead coming back to life. A few of them seem to be snapping out of it. Another one has the ability to speak normal while several are babbling on about some red cloaked figure who led the Gantronese. Whatever or whoever it was it spooked them pretty good.” Brucs said to his Captain.

“Did they give their names?” Jenere asked the Boatswain.

“Several of them did sir in fact five of them gave me their names. Goren, Ollie, Renton, Lynx, and Jess are the ones you should talk to. If you need any more information those five should be stable minded enough to ask.” Brucs explained to his Captain.

“Where can I find them?” Jenere asked Brucs.

“They should be in the crew's quarters closer to the bow. I swear Captain you vessel is the size of a battle ship, a fortress of its own!” Brucs claimed in a bewildered voice. The Goblin Boatswain looked up and down then around his surroundings in the empty hall.

“I'd prefer if was considered a mansion size, but alas I am a pirate whose ship is a mixture of two vessels.” Jenere exaggerated, bragging about his ship and how he wanted it to be. He left the Goblin Boatswain thinking of seizing another a ship, a fancier ship. On his way to the other crew's quarters that was still considered extra space Jenere plotted to do some more raiding on the seas. In his mind he planned to see if there were any kingdoms or factions within the invader's empire that had ships he could raid and seize.

He passed through multiple sections of the ship before reaching the crew's quarters. Due to the extensions made the crew's quarters was enlarged in the bow sections. There was enough room for a hundred men. Inside the expanded section hung hammocks, bunks lined along the walls and in straight lines or columns attached to the floor and ceiling. The bunks were also grouped together with enough space in between each grouping. It was almost empty save for the pirates they rescued, all huddled together, and a handful of crew members tending to them.

Jenere approached the first few bunks and hammocks drawing attention to him. He did not bother looking around the room seeing most of the crew were absent and the rest scattered all over the room. Out of the corner of his eye he caught a glimpse of a female crew member getting humped by two crew mates. The Captain ignored them only to see a group of crew members playing a game of dice. He casually walked through with eyes on him. As he got to the huddle mass of rescued privateers their heads looked up at him. More than half of them started to snap out of it. Whatever had them spooked to the point of insanity and trauma had affected their speech. Their eyes looked tired and still scared of what they witnessed and experienced. Jenere just assumed it was from being in the Unknown Lands. He looked at all these faces with the five names in his head Ollie, Renton, Goren, Lynx, and Jess. Nearly fifty three pirates he rescued had their eyes on him, a captain and now a Privateer.

“I am looking for some members of your crew. Is Lynx, Renton, Jess, Ollie, and Goren among you?” He asked these traumatized crew of pirates.

Five members stood up among their crew members. Two females and three males approached the Captain of the ship that rescued them. An orc of unfamiliar origins with small horns, a half goblin nearly as tall as a human, two elves one with dark hair and the other a blonde, and a Zedirian who was a mix of three different races, elf, Puck, and Gudo. The orc wore shark skin vest like jacket over a dark blue shirt, gray pants and thick iron/hide boots. Next to the orc stood the Zedirian wearing he sailor's striped shirt, dark colored trousers made from endurable materials and rubbery shoes. He did not wear a cap on his head. On the right stood the female elf crew members. The dark haired one donned a red striped long sleeved shirt under a harness and a thick vest for a jacket, tight fit pants and knee high boots. Her blonde counterpart or fellow crew mate had a white tunic-shirt revealing her cleavage, chaps over her pants, leather boots, and a bandanna on her head. At the left end of the group was the half goblin in rough seafaring clothing, which included a grim plaid shirt, sleeveless jacket, blue pants and worn boots.

“Which one of you is Lynx, Renton, Jess, Ollie, and Goren?” Jenere asked the five of the sanest of the pirates huddled together.

“I am Renton.” said the Goblin.

“Goren.” the Zedirian replied to Jenere in a sort of snort.

“Jess is the name.” the dark haired elf said.

“Lynx, but you can call me anything.” the blonde said showing a hint of interest with one eyebrow. He ignored her showing little to no attention towards her.

“Me name is Ollie, short of Ollinox.” the Orc said appearing confused about why Jenere summoned them forward.

“As you probably know I am Captain Jenere Omavern of the Abomination. My new Boatswain Brucs informed me that the five of you can tell me what you and your crew were doing in the Unknown Lands.” Jenere said looking at the five privateers who were also pirates. None of them spoke a word for a few minutes until the Zedirian stepped up.

“Under the command of our beloved and loathed Captain Crystal Predator Hunterson we chased down a small fleet of Gantronese aligned ships. Well, these were smaller vessels much like gunboats.” Goren explained to Jenere who listened intently.

“They were more like mechanized schooners!” Jess butted in the conversation. The Zedirian gave her a disgusted look then returned his attention back to Captain Jenere.

“After chasing them down the coast our vessel ran aground and got stuck in shallow waters.” Goren went on with the Captain's attention glued to him.

“It sounds like they fooled you into these shallow waters. Now what about that red cloaked figure?” Jenere asked drawing attention to him. He wanted to ask about Captain Hunterson, but his tongue went straight for the red cloaked figure. Some of them shivered at the mention of the figure.

“That monster took our Captain and mounted her into the ground having its way. As for us well you can already guess.” Renton answered as Goren was too shocked from recalling what happened.

“I am sorry about your Captain and crew mates.” he said showing his condolences. “ Where do we need to drop you off?”

“As far away from these lands as possible!” one of the crew members cried out nearly losing his mind. Soon everyone of them among this crew gave their voice in agreement. It caused a small ruckus and babble of voices inside the room.

“CALM YOURSELVES!” Jenere heard a voice yell at them from behind him. “You are pirates not school children! This is Captain Omavern! Show him-”

“Thank you crew mate!” Jenere cut him off. He turned to see it was one of his own crew. A large looking Elemani came up to his Captain's side. He forgot his name, but still recognized his face.

“Thank you crew mate I will take over from here. Before this ship goes where ever it is you want we need to report to the Vestrisians in Borvados. That includes you lot.” Jenere stated in declaration and stern authority.

None of them said anything. Each one slowly nodded their answer “yes” allowing the Captain to take them where they all needed to report in. Jenere observed their faces, most of them were still in shock from what they had experienced. Whoever was an officer here among these pirates/privateers was either dead or had lost his mind. No one really stood up to say they were an officer or even point on out.

“Make yourselves at home we should be there in a few days or more.” Jenere offered to these traumatized privateers. As he left the privateers/pirates he realized by taking them to Borvados they would still be close to the Unknown Lands. He had been to Borvados before a couple of times in the past to see his children. A few weeks were spent with them along its eastern shores. While there he only got a glimpse of their culture. In a small village he experienced the Borvadosian culture in its more urban sense. This village was not too far from the city where most of it was modernized or progressing towards the modern era. Borvadosians wore a type of wrap mixed with a poncho over a tunic or shirt and trousers. Their hairstyles were a little outlandish yet similar to the Uxane styles. Each one had piercings on the face and donned a weird wrap cap that looked oddly like a partially bloomed flower.

Going to Borvados only to report to their Vestrisian employers appeared dull for a pirate. A required report to the employers was not too different than a student being summoned by the school master. He made his way to the command bridge where his First Mate and the helmsman conversed with each other. The Abomination was now at a good distance away from the Unknown Lands in a southern course. Looking around the spotted Zana's Ego of Queens on their flank sailing alongside them.

“Ersig get Zana on the line!” Jenere ordered the radio operator.

“Aye, aye Captain?” Ersig replied sounding confused. She must have been surprised to hear the first name. Jenere stood on the floor of the command bridge with Elydark and his first helmsman. Neither of them spoke a word as Ersig contacted Captain Zana Caniir. It took her several times to get in contact with Captain Caniir. Five minutes later the radio operator got a signal and began speaking into the mouth piece.

“Captain Caniir, this is the Abomination do you read me? Over.” She nearly shouted trying to get her words across.

“Captain Caniir, Captain Omavern would like a word with you.” Ersig said over the radio link. “Yes ma'am I can put him on the line. over”

Ersig tapped the phone piece next to her. She indicated for him to pick up the phone and speak to Captain Caniir. He went up to her station and picked up a phone piece to be on line with her.

“Captain Caniir this is Captain Omavern speaking, over.” Jenere said through the mouth piece.

“How are your guests doing Captain? Over.” She asked him sounding very pissed off about something.

“They are still spooked by whatever they encountered in the jungles. You seem troubled by something. Over.” Jenere responded the question.

“I lost twenty of my best crew members!” Zana shouted in the radio, her voice went straight into his ear. He had to take the ear piece away from his own face as she continued with her rage. She went on a tirade for several minutes until she was out of breath. Jenere took the opportunity to inform her about reporting to the employers.

“Captain Caniir we need to report to the Vestrisians in Borvados. Over” He said to her hoping to at least get her to pay attention to their assigned mission.

“...Have you spoken to Colonel Winnorsen? Over.” She asked in disbelief calming down a little. Jenere did not answer the question right away. While he was in his quarters he received a message from his superior. It informed him via radio to take the privateers to Borvados.

“Yes he wants us to bring the rescued privateers to Borvados. Just have your helmsman follow me. Over.” Jenere told her as if they were the only ones in a room.

“Lead the way Captain Omavern. Over.” Zana responded in a voice that sounded confused and lost at the same time.

With the conversation over Jenere hung up the phone piece. He went up to the ship wheel that was still manned by the helmsman. As he approached the wheel his helmsman left the post for her Captain to take command. Jenere took the wheel in his hands for the first time today and steered the ship towards the direction of Borvados. Taking her left did bring them closer to the Unknown Lands. However these shores hosted the more civilized portion of the coasts. Some of it still could be in Gantronese control while other portions lay under Vestrisian control. It was a gamble but he knew where Borvados was.

“We should go at full speed ahead!” Jenere commanded to his crew. His commands were obeyed as the command bridge prepared to charge ahead. At the helm he steered the ship with no one else in control of his actions. Jenere's actions rested on the path ahead of them, not the ships dawdling about. These ships belonged to Kilscar Orvain, Oceanrest Var. and several other states. Among all these ships he saw not a single one flew the Gantronese flag or colors.

Although he was going at a fast speed the ships patrolling did not wave for him to slow it down. He looked over to see Zana's ship catching up to him. For two days the pair of privateers traversed the sea. Right as the second day closed into nightfall they came to the Vestrisian territory. At the border the VUVR they had to stop at a floating dock like station. A team of Vestrisians came aboard to inspect only the cargo before letting them go on their way. This team consisted of half goblins, a few Torfene Pucks, and a few humans. A Torfene Puck was a humanoid who looked either human or elf with hoofs for feet and shorter. Despite the violent nature of goblins, Orcs, and Kuruks in Vestrisia there were still entire communities who chose to progress and coexist with other races within this Union Republics. Each one of these races had branded or tattooed a symbol to mark themselves as civilized to avoid discrimination. He watched these inspectors who were armed with small fire arms, sub machine guns, combat dirks, combat knives, military batons and each one was equipped with a modern short sword. When they were finished the leading member handed him a blue flag and instructed him to dock at the port closest to a certain fort. In less than half an hour the team permitted them to pass through.

Years had passed since he had been in this part of Borvados. Back then he was a pirate and was avoiding the law at the time. Now he is a privateer working for the Vestrisian Union that had recently formed over a decade ago. Borvados was a part of this Vestrisian Union mostly because of the invaders. Rumors spread across the seas saying they would leave once the invaders were gone. He steered the Abomination towards an empty space in the docks with the Ego doing the same. Each vessel slowly grabbed hold of the docking space. The engines were shut down and the crews were stirred from the decks. Jenere and his officers made their way down the gangway only to be greeted by the Harbor Master and a pair of Borvados Dock Guards in the Vestrisian uniform.

“Hello there, I am Captain Omavern of the Abomination-” Jenere burst out with a gust of energy but the man cut him off. He just smiled at this Harbor Master who cut him off.

“I wasn't notified about you were coming. I am expecting Captain “Big Juggs” and her crew!” the Harbor Master growled looking angry and disgruntled.

“Well I was sure you'd know about our arrival from my superiors. Is this Captain Juggs as you named a certain Hunterson?” Jenere implied to the Harbor Master who looked less Borvadosian than the two guards.

“Are you new in the navy or something?” asked the angry Harbor Master who stepped a little further into a light revealing he was dressed in a gray jumpsuit.

“I am Captain Omavern a recently hired Privateer for the Vestrisian Union. Captain Caniir of the Ego of Queens is with me as are some of Hunterson's crew.” Jenere answered the Harbor Master whose expression relaxed a little and he softened his tone.

“Head straight for that office over in the bronze building at the end of the docks. Go in there and talk to Master MaGee who is also an Admiral Marshall of this coastal area. Take the missing Captain's crew as well.” the Harbor Master directed him pointing at a building that stood at the base of an ancient tower that still seemed to be in use. The harbor/port here had a mixture of modern buildings and the traditional ancient structure still being used. He returned to the ship and gathered his officers to bring the guests off his ship. It took a while, but they managed to lure them out with some sort of bait. Cliff found himself going for this bait as well, which was an auburn haired crew member with a defined, curvy body. The pair of them were left in a room that was empty allowing the rest to move on. 

Jenere and his officers proceeded towards the bronze building with the rest of Hunterson's crew. He left his Second Mate and Boatswain behind to let the crew loose upon the town lightly armed. If any one of them committed a crime here they would be violently kicked out of the crew. Lights were on all over the docks and port with very little activity going on at night. He heard some laughter here and there a few groups of figures in corners and their crew entering the main streets. As they made their way closer to the office building a group of six Vestrisians were just coming out of the bronze building with a few privateer officers in dark clothing at their sides.

Just as the parties were about to meet Zana Caniir and one officer appeared from behind a grouping of shacks. It almost surprised him, but he knew she had to show up at some point. She was accompanied by her most trusted crew members. The Captain paused in her tracks just as the other two groups met at the end of the dock. The Vestrisians wore the standard naval uniforms each decorated as an officer both high ranks and middle ranks. Jenere noticed something about these Vestrisians in the light navy blue. Everyone of them had facial hair, two of them had mustaches, three held goatees, and the last one had mutton chops. He looked at the ranks noticing the highest rank in the group was Admiral-Marshall who happened to be this Admiral Marshall MaGee he was sent to speak with. MaGee donned a horse shoe mustache well kept blond hair under his cap. Around this MaGee were Captains, Admirals whose names her tried to read but it was a little dark despite the light over them. MaGee spoke first since he was the highest rank there.

“I presume you are Captain Jenere Omavern of the Abomination?” Admiral Marshall MaGee sort of speculated. He squinted his eyes a little and observed the Captain and his officers. At first Jenere thought he did not approve of him or his officers seeing as they were once pirates. Being a Privateer gave one a mixed reputation depending on where they went. It proved to be better for reputation with authorities than it would being a pirate.

“Are you Admiral-Marshall MaGee?” Jenere asked before giving a salute to this Vestrisian High Ranking Officer. MaGee and the five other high ranking Vestrisians saluted in return.

“Have you rescued a crew of pirates/privateers as Winorsenn commanded you?” MaGee requested from the privateers. His gaze was mainly on Jenere and then turned over to Zana who saluted to him. MaGee returned the salute to the female Captain.

“Captain Caniir so glad to see you again. How fares your crew and vessel?” MaGee asked the female privateer Captain. One of the privateer officers in a purple outfit that consisted a tank top and pants from a jumpsuit stepped in front of the Admiral Marshall.

“Admiral Marshall sir you promised me a ship!” She yelled at the Admiral Marshall revealing a long braid and a set of daggers on her back.

“Captain Boneheel you lost your ship and more than ninety percent of your own crew! I will not commission another ship or another crew to you! Instead you are demoted and placed under Caniir's command! Nor will I hear another word now leave us to our business!” MaGee growled at the demoted privateer who walked away defeated.

“Now that that is over let's get down to business. I see only Hunterson's crew, but not her. What happened?” MaGee demanded looking at what remained of the missing Captain's crew. Jenere saw his gaze go back and forth, up and down the line of Hunterson's crew. Lynx stepped up before the Admiral Marshall and the rest.

“Captain Hunterson is no longer with us. More than half the crew are dead and the ship destroyed. We do not wish to speak of this again. With all do respect Admiral-Marshall what happened out there should never be spoken of. We did our job but we fell into a trap.” Lynx responded to Admiral-Marshall MaGee who looked up at the sky then looked back at the privateers.

“You were sent out to get rid of the small fleet of enemy ships near Kilscar Orvain. I see you have failed?” The Admiral-Marshall pointed out.

“No sir, well most of the fleet was sunk before we gave chase then ran aground. Our Captain got cocky so she sent us all after the boats that were trying to land at the shore. She led the pursuit that is when we fell into a trap.” Lynx explained to the Admiral-Marshall. He lowered his head showing depression had hit him from the trauma.

“I only see fifty two of you survived the mission, and without the Captain. That does mean you each get an extra share of the reward. Meet me at this office tomorrow and we shall discuss this over the course of a few days. As for you Captain Omavern your reward should arrive here in a week.” MaGee said in a disappointed voice.

“Also your payment for the patrol is also coming here tomorrow.” MaGee added before leaving the privateers.

In silence the pirates and privateers returned to their ships, Jenere to his with crew and guests, Zana and her replenished crew to hers. Back on the docks Jenere and his fellow privateers came upon a festival of erotic behavior. Entire groups of males encircled women as a form of shame or punishment ritual. He ignored all of this not caring for the customs of Borvados. With his crew allover the docks and settlement Jenere returned to his quarters where he rested for the rest of the night. The next morning Jenere woke up with Sophine leaning against him with her arm on top of him. Looking at her braided head made him feel serene. The thought of stroking her head was soothing enough. Both had loved each other this long. Lying on the bed together in the morning was what he enjoyed the most at times. Jenere did not stir from his bed for what felt like an eternity. He closed his eyes for a few moments when banging on the door disrupted their rest.

“Enter!” he nearly roared causing Sophine to wake up.

The door opened and in came First Mate Elydark, and Boatswain Brucs. Each officer stood at the door with a salute to their Captain. Jenere saluted back and sat up with Sophine. She got on her knees looking tired, peeved, and about to shoot one of them. Sophine held a disgruntled face and glared at the two fellow officers. They ignored her, focusing on the Captain who was getting off the bed.

“Good Morning Captain!” Elydark said to him showing some enthusiasm for the day. “Admiral-Marshall MaGee will meet you in an hour.”

Jenere straightened himself stretching and getting himself awake more. He turned and greeted the two officers with a wave to tired to say a word. Whatever time it was Jenere was sure it was well past the crack of dawn. He went to the wardrobe where he dressed in the most casual attire he could find for a Captain while Sophine left for her own room. His thoughts rested on the crew who were set upon to enjoy the port.

“Has the crew behaved?” Jenere asked buttoning up a shirt after slipping on some trousers. He then grabbed his boots and put them on.

“Uh no and yes Captain most were drunk yet kept out of fights and squabbles.” Elydark answered before the Goblin could respond to the Captain. Brucs gave him a look with raised eyebrows but gave up starting something.

“So there were no incidents then? Good that is the first time in a decade.” Jenere claimed as he began walking out of his quarters. He brushed past his officers beckoning them to follow him. Passing through sections and passages Jenere found his way to the mess hall where he gathered breakfast and at it with his officers and some crew members still there. In silence he ate it down then left the mess hall and the ship.

Outside he walked straight for the Vestrisian Naval Office. The docks were filled with activity of merchants, patrons, dock workers, sailors, fishermen, and soldiers on patrol. Much of the port still held the Borvados characteristics of vase shaped buildings, conical structures along with their prideful decorations. He moved through the crowds with some ease having to push and brush his way to the office. When he came to the office he went up the staircase then entered the Admiral-Marshall's office. The Admiral-Marshall sat at his desk with a cup of coffee in his hand and a copy of some Vestrisian newspaper called the King's Chronicles. A popular newspaper among the cities of Borvados, Morgadra, Badraan and the Tante Republics.

“Good morning Captain. Here's your payment.” The Admiral-Marshall said putting down the paper and coffee. MaGee got up from his desk and went to the back of his office. This high ranking officer had an X base desk set up in the middle of the office, a large map of Calorn behind his desk next to a door, four file cabinets tucked into one side corner, three chairs, a large photo of a battle ship on the side wall, some weights and a furnace below the photo, and a small table next to the door that had a few photos. On the left wall hung the Vestrisian flag with the anvil in the center, a wrench, pitch fork, sword, and hammer crossing through it. Beside that was the Borvados flag, and a flag he did not recognize that must have been of his original nation. MaGee went over to the door and opened it. He entered inside then began rummaging through whatever room or hall that was there. The Admiral-Marshall returned to the office space carrying a military duffle bag that appeared heavy. It had the silver Vestrisian emblem of the crossed pistol and axe. He dropped it next to the desk.

“There is one more bag of this. Here is about 36,000 Eagles, and forty thousand to fifty thousand Zordes, everyone's favorite international currency.” MaGee said going back inside the door. “You should be getting more bags or suitcases of this in three days. Also bring some men to help you.”