Was there a Tornado above the school or am I crying wolf? Life

When I was a kid tornados were something I had never heard of until I reached the age of either seven, or eight. Like most kids I would get scared of storms mainly because of lightning, and thunder strikes. My experience in a tornado were somewhat limited. It was because our house was never really hit by one nor was it torn apart. We lived in the piedmont region that had hills, ravines, lakes, rivers, creeks, and some fields covered in forests or patches of woods. Most tornados hit the areas that were flat such as Greensboro or the surrounding areas. I did hear about the damage that was caused and saw it on TV as a kid. It did scare me at the time, however I would actually forget about it the next day. Kids don't usually remember that all the time.

Back in the Christian School I was I heard there was a tornado watch or warning in our area. For some reason we went outside and a thick dark cloud hovered over the area. It looked a little more strange than I thought. Out of panic I shouted there was a tornado. It scared everyone and we all rushed back inside. Even I believed a tornado was forming right above our very heads. After all it was that time when tornados struck the area. This caused a bit of chaos among the other students who raced inside the building we were told to go in until permitted to go outside.

Listen I was a kid then and I did not exactly observe my surroundings very well. Some kids tripped, and fell hard on the ground. They were scared and tripped over something or were likely pushed. It was because of the panic that I probably caused yell "tornado" which resulted in some injuries or kids like to say boo boos. I can say it was mostly my fault for crying out tornado. When we were all inside I feared for my life. My imagination ran wild fooling me a tornado would rip right through the brick concrete building we sat in. This memory might as well be a confession about what I have done in the past. It may be nothing compared to what other kids have done. Yet I cannot help but wonder if the wounds are still there after twenty years or more. 

A cult for a Dragon

They had finally caught him, the former dictator who sought to recreate the ancient Roman Empire. His dream to reform Rome would be under a fascist government. For twenty three years Benito Mussolini ruled over Italy as Prime Minister from 1922- 1943 and as Dictator of a Fascist Government. His reign ended for a short time over Italy until the allies were stopped by the Germans. Benito Mussolini was now at the mercy of Partisans who captured him and his mistress Clara Petacci. Both of them were on their knees pleading for mercy until Partisans shot them in the streets. It is the year 1945, April 28th,  the end of the Fascist Dictator, and the puppet state that was set up after the allied invasion of 1943.

All the accomplishments of the Axis powers were pushed back and destroyed by the allies. In the alley of the street a former Black Shirt watched as his Il Duce and his Mistress were dragged through the streets by communist Partisans. Marcello Tome could not stand to watch his former Il Duce be dragged over to the place where they would hang the deceased dictator, and the mistress. His band of followers looked at him with some anger and despair in their eyes. Their dream of a 20th century Rome looked to be dead, and burned to ash.

"How will we rebuild from rubble and ruin?" one of them demanded jabbing a finger at him. Marcello slapped him telling him to be quiet.

"We have other alternatives to think of." he hissed at the follower.

"You mean let the all-" he was cut off.

"Let the allies rebuild while we rebuild our army in the underground. Then we reach out to our allies and those still friendly to fascism. You will see, the people will tire and grow angry with the Capitalists, and those Communists. Follow me!" He said to them. Marcello led his band of five to the edge of Milan's outskirts. From there they made their way to the Alps.

"This is the place. We will find the Tatzelwurm and build a cult from it. Those who believe in it will flock to our side. It is time that Dragons should be worshiped once again!" Marcello cried out raising his hands in the air. He gazed at the Alps with wonder and insanity. All he heard was silence from a few of them except laughing behind him.

"What, what is so funny?" he demanded. The ones laughing at him burst out laughing at him.

"Are you serious, the Tatzelwurm is just a fairy tale!" one of them said mocking Marcello.

"Ho ho ho ho Marcello you are still a child at heart! Believing this creature no DRAGON exists!" another said before cracking up even more.

Two of the followers kept laughing while the others shook their heads and started to leave. Something stirred in the bushes. A large scaly serpentine creature emerged and approached the two nonbelievers, and the ones who mocked its existence. This creature made one sweep with its claw cutting down the two that mocked Marcello. Seeing for their own eyes, a Dragon, the rest got on their knees to avoid being punished. Marcello cackled and dropped to his knees.

"Oh great Tatzelwurm grant us the strength and power to rebuild the glorious Roman Empire!" Marcello cried out bowing before this serpent that was said to be a myth. 

At the Bar & Club

“When is this going to happen?” he asked sitting at the bar with his drink in hand.

“You have to be patient. She is going to come out in about half an hour from six thirty.” Barkeep Naten said to the impatient young patron who has been for nearly an hour. Former Chaplain of the South Lucius “Laren” Addle Halystalker heard of this singer from Syrianos known as Smile Pride. He came from a wide spread city in the vast territory of Vimasdra. Because of the Nazdar many nations, and kingdoms received advancements in transportation and communication for their own war effort. They would have used their ships, however many of them were destroyed, and ran out of the necessary fuel needed to launch.

            “Fine I’ll be patient, but if she doesn’t go to me or this other guy who is a host to this radio station. He is also a real live city hero, according to the locals. I call him Philips, but his real name is Randolf Philipius Morsee-Nathos. Again, if I don’t see her come to me after the little show I will storm her dressing room!” he barked at the barkeep. Lucius gave Naten a scowl who only scoffed at him in return. Naten was about to speak but was interrupted.

            “Holy crappa molly those are real!” a new arrival proclaimed as he and a buddy sat down at the bar. It drew their attention to them. They were two identical men dressed in tuxedos who looked like they came from wedding. One of them had a ghorean goatee and the other one donned a fine thin Therisan anchor mustache.

            “Yes they are my friend. She is a rare beauty born in the state of Norvath. However Miss Karis Merovin, the Blue Elf has been on hiatus.” The goatee arrival said.

            “Have you met her?” his friend asked him.

            “No.” he replied.

            “Then we must arrange something after a good show.” The friend said referring to the Smile Pride concert.

            This duo of friends took a seat closer to the stage. Lucius watched them as they ogled the photograph He wanted to join them, but something was stopped him. It was as if some invisible or strange power was keeping him there. There are times you lack the opportunity to do something. Other times people did not know the opportunity was even there in the first place. For some time he watched more people enter the place. His focus went to the stage as the lights dimmed. The only lights that were on were the stage lights, near the entrance, and the bar area. Just four stage lights shined on the bottom center of the curtains and stage. He watched the curtains unfurl to reveal a gorgeous curvy busty woman in a red dress. She had short wavy hair with some bangs. The dress she wore showed a little cleavage.

            Without warning she broke into song. The music followed suit. Every patron stood up cheering, clapping, and screamed with excitement. This gorgeous half demon singer from Syrianos livened up the place. For a whole hour she performed songs such as Melancholy Joy, Stress in the Winter, Baby smile for me, and Lost in your head am I. His friend arrived in the middle of the act. Randolf appeared eager to meet Smile Pride.

            “Okay when do we meet this person?” Randolf asked in a loud voice, because of the music and singing.

            “Hold it, you need to wait until the show is over. She will need-“ Lucius said trying to calm down, but was cut off.

            “Alright, alright I’ll wait. You did arrange a meeting with her right?” Randolf replied to his friend.

            “Yes, but you have to keep your hands to yourself.” Lucius leaned over to mutter something in Randolf’s ear. He wanted to say something to his friend, but Randolf waved him off. Lucius was forced to watch the rest of the concert. His eyes could not help but focus on her breasts, which bounced as she moved around. Automatically his mouth watered at the sight of her. An aroused feeling build up inside of him. Just the desire to hump this sexy, gorgeous singer from Syrianos who had a bit of demon in her. Only she was half demon without wings. These were rumors he hoped to debunk himself. He watched her prance and dance until it was over.

            “Okay Randolf it’s over let’s go f-, I mean meet her.” Lucius said grabbing Randolf by the arm. Not caring about who was watching or who noticed he pulled his friend away from the bar. In an attempt to avoid suspicions he tried to sneak out through a side door. To his misfortune there stood an orc bouncing guarding the door. He stopped and turned to the stage where Smile Pride was giving autographs to fans who crowded the stage. He watched her until she was done giving autographs.

            “Come on we can intercept her at the hallway.” He said taking his friend to the side of the stage. Randolf tore from his grasp and raced towards Smile Pride. Lucius had to chase after him through this crowd. He heard cries, screams along with shouting in that crowd. Lucius pushed and shouldered his way to catch up to his friend who was already feet away from Smile Pride. He felt multiple arms grab him. Lucius tried to wrench himself free causing a scuffle to break out. Can they back off? All I want is to get to my friend! He said in his head as he pulled and tugged. Someone punched him in the jaw. It hurt, but it did not knock him out. Whoever had hold of him overpowered him. Lucius was shoved into the bar, had multiple drinks spill on him. His assailants dumped alcohol all over him before dragging him outside.

            Lucius got up to fight back until he realized he was outnumbered. Each one wore a tuxedo, suit, and a gentry clothing. They were ready to fight him. For him to fight this battle was death. This was it, he thought, a brutal end to his life. Beaten to the ground. Out of the corner of his eye he spotted armed soldiers, and guards. A team of Grevaskii poured in from behind the assailants and opened a new front. These Grevaskii drew batons, truncheons, and cudgels. Leaving the group of assailants oblivious and blind Lucius watched them get their own just desert.

            All of them were caught off guard. His assailants received blows in many placed repeatedly. Not a single assailant was left standing. Their bodies lay limp and motionless. Even though they lay dead that did not stop the Grevaskii. In disregard to the corpses they presumed until the corpses were a mesh of flesh, and bones, sticking out. Out of the blue his friend Randolf was thrown to the ground. He was battered and bruised. It was because of their rank and status the two friends were spared. Former Chaplain of South Lucius Addle Haystalker, and Host Randolf Philipus Morsee-Nathos were left to leave for their own homes. Lucius lifted his friend out and carried him to the nearest hostel in the city.

That Monster? Life

When I was still in school I heard of this monster from a little boy. His name escapes me these days since it has been over twenty years since I last saw him. If my memory is correct I was in the 1st grade and he was in kindergarten. It has been two many years, but the monster he told me about is till there. He described to be bug like and shape shifting. No it is not like the moth man unless he was referring to that. There were other descriptions of this monster such as a creature from another world perhaps? It is hard to recall what he described it as since it has been so many years. To me it seemed made up and perhaps it was his imagination. It was most likely made up to describe his fear of the woods.

He says it can talk you and it already knows your name. This little boy said it has been to his house many times and said it will come after him. Being the little gullible boy I was I sort of believed him and played along with his ideas. The monster could not be killed he said, but he still wanted to beat it up. My own thoughts on the matter were fearing this monster could come after me. So the little boy and I said they would meet and beat this monster up. According to this little boy the monster lived in his old house and could still visit him. Well the two of us never really entered the woods or met up to beat this monster up like we said we would. I continued to play with this little boy along with many others on the play ground of the Christian School in Clemons, North Carolina. To those who do remember me from those days I'm still here. 

A Fang in a Boy's Jaw? Life

Back in the days of that Christian School I recall a certain fat little boy. I forget his name, but his face is never forgotten. My mind has always remembered him as a mix of a bully, friend, and a playmate in after school care. His dark hair made me think he was part native american or something. At that time I had no perception of what planet earth looked like yet. In my mind the countries were closer together like neighbors. Well this boy who I believed is named TJ or something like that said he was a werewolf for some reason. He claimed he was a werewolf and that his people fought the Chinese and was never defeated in a single war. His claims did involve that our own government couldn't defeat his warlike people. TJ's claims of being a werewolf were merely to scare me and other kids. I admit to being gullible at first, but I saw through the bullshit and realized he was lying. In his mouth there was a tooth that looked very similar to that of a wolf. That is how he decided or must have decided to scare and bully people into believing he really was a werewolf. To me this was all bull crap, he never showed up at my house like he said he would. Years later I saw him again in Baskin Robbins Ice cream store in a sort of heated discussion with another known bully of the playground. 

Flag of Badraan

This is a possible flag for Badraan, a territory of the Vestrisian Union. It was once a nation of its own before joining the fold that is called the V.U.V.R.

Left Wondering about that childhood friend Life

We all have those childhood friends that we never see for years and years. There are times our paths cross and we meet at some point in our lives. This childhood friend of mine was a girl I met from my two sisters' dance class or something like baley. I was about six or seven years old when I met her. The two of us would play together almost every week or so. Every time we played it was house or we watched a movie, or played with toys. For a few years we were together as friends. Then one day she was taken away without any explanation to me whatsoever. It may not be a big deal to some, others forget about them, and even run into them without realizing who they were. All I remember or will reveal to you all is that I was a childhood friend of this person. Whoever she is and wherever she is I hope she is still alive and is doing well. As I child I could not get her name right so I called her Eva or something like that. Memories of her came back in school when I was playing on the playground with some girls who asked me to play house. What else can you say as a kid I played just about everything a kid could know at the time.

When she left I was left wondering where she was and what happened to her. That made me sad, as a child I would imagine she was still there until I grew older and played with my fellow boys. To this very day I have always wondered what happened to her. It would be a miracle to see her again even she was married. Only a few questions remain in my mind does she remember me or has she forgotten about me? There are times that we must let go. I feel this was a huge cliffhanger in my life that I believe will never be answered. Yet somehow I cannot shake the feeling that we have been meeting this whole time. No I don't need to see anyone about this.  

Chinese Fortune Life and Travel

While I was in china we visited multiple cities and towns. A few of the places we went to had a tradition to them. In a place that was known as the Garden of a thousand roses and flowers was a hall with depictions and images on the floor. According to ancient traditions one must walk on these patterns a certain way in order to gain fortune and luck for future success. Each pattern that was on the floor represented a different path to success and fortune. Some people did this to gain a favorable life in the future. Others like the student who stayed with my mother did them to be granted success in school. I did not get the full story of how it came about, but learning about this caught my attention. It is strange how I remember this in some detail.

Here is one them that I took a picture of back in 2012 during my visit. I do not know how accurate I am on what the tradition of gaining fortune through these customs. 

An Exchange

On the coast of a lonely island two parties met from opposite sides. Each one came by boats, which sat on the beaches. Something was stirring and had to be settled quickly before it grew worse. There had been enough trouble in the past, yet that was nothing compared to what was brewing if things were not settled down. On one side was an armada of ships of different sizes, class, and origins. These ships were maned by corsairs, sea raiders, privateers, and buccaneers from the far corners of the known world. As a show of force was a fleet of naval vessels of only two classes, which would possibly be outmaneuvered, and outnumbered in a sea battle.

A party of nine privateers, and buccaneers met a group of six soldiers, an elite rifleman/swordsman, a trio of night watchmen, and a Captain. It was here on this island the naval forces of a powerful nation was attempting to appease an armada of angry buccaneers, corsairs, and raiders who created the third pirate republic of the silver seas. In between them was a small hoard of treasure, which consisted of eight chests full of gold, and other treasures, a golden statue, gold chain link headdress, and a few crowns. Whoever was the leader came up to each other next to the offering. It was here the leaders exchanged words. One side was to take the gold as tribute, and the other side was given safe passage through these waters unscathed, unharmed, untouched, and allowed to expand colonization. 

What I did Life story

I was eight or nine at the time at a Christian school where you had grades in bible study. They had us learn about stories from the bible along with reading, math, and writing in cursive. During those years I was somewhat of a trouble maker and a little bit of a bully according to some accounts I am sure. It would not surprise if I was considered one at this school. All I cared about was playing, watching TV, drawing, and going outside. What can I say I was a kid back then. A kid who hardly did his homework.

There was always a bully for somebody from the way I perceived it. I was almost always getting into trouble with a teacher, staff, or the ones running the afterschool care center. No I will not give the name of this school so you can figure it out on your own. That is if you wish to travel. There were many adventures, stories, playtime events, and imagination ran wild in my head. I was just a simple kid who may have been a little smarter in some cases, but not the way the school board insisted. Here it goes I was on the field next to the playground that we assumed it was part of the playground, however we always played a game. At times I used to be involved when I was kid in second and first grade if my memory is correct. It has been twenty years since this happened. Me and a group of other boys who were younger than me went down to this field of green grass that sat next to some woods. No one really went inside those woods because it scared us.

I was hoping to play a ball game whether it was kick ball, baseball, or tag football. To my misfortune that group of boys ganged up on me and excluded me. I watched them group up and huddled together like a team would. They were probably going to make me play on my own team alone. Seeing them exclude me like that made my anger swell up. In fury I went up to them and pushed all them down right as they were huddled together. Everyone of them fell on the ground on top of one another. Acting fast I bolted away as if nothing happened and trying to get away in case they got up to chase me. I did not have a clue what happened to them. This is a confession in case I accidentally hurt them or worse. For twenty years I feel like I remain unpunished for what I did unless you'd call it justice for excluding a kid to play lone wolf. For all these years I have remembered that act against exclusion. The only question remains is do they remember? 

Sigil and flag of House Borgeen

Always ready to assume a rank gives them power over every ally, slow to learn once given a rank above Captain, and never the best commanders. House Borgeen is more of an ancient house of the old Geverine Kingdom that existed well before the days of the Vestrisian Republics. Although most members of the noble house choose a military career they are not always the most interesting house of all the noble houses. They do their duty well enough for the military until they are back lashed or demoted for drinking excessively. Although every one loves a good beer, ale, a pint of mead, or the stouts this house indulges in this sort of beverage a little too much. Most of their trade involves breweries, and distilleries at times. Being everyone's favorite company to buy from for centuries the Borgeens had a reputation to go over board with beers at every occasion. Drinking is a favorite past time and a social activity yes, but when the Borgeens do this other people they seem boring. For the only adventure they'd seek is either in the military, or going to the furthest place that has beer. 

Commando Part 60

More than three thousand people had to be moved. That consisted of the soldiers, freed prisoners, and the civilians who were stuck in the settlements. Whole groups of enemies became prisoners of war after they surrendered or were caught. The coalition had lost roughly seven hundred or more in the night assault. As for the defenders it was estimated that Caligari had 484 thugs, and goons, 1600 Gantronese, 245 pirates, and hundred hired guns. It gave the Caligari’s the advantage in terms of numbers on the battlefield. However, they had the element of surprise, and the fat Syndicate Boss made many enemies. Whole tribes of warriors and Dark Elves launched their own attack. Most of these forces fought in the marshes forcing goons, and enemies to hunt them down. It added more casualties to the Caligari dead, yet the bodies could not be recovered. Not all the pirates, goons, and thugs expressed no true loyalty resulting in back stabbings alongside betrayals all around.

When everything seemed to be in order Maurice was summoned to a hidden pit in the palace. Bryce, Maphai and other leaders gathered near this pit which held the Caligari monster they heard so much about. Whatever this creature was it had the appearance of an over-sized reptile with an appetite for flesh. It looked hungry and ready to feast on more meat. In its lair dangled corpses and skeletons of its victims. The creature licked its jaw with a large tongue. Sure, enough Mommy Gluton’s massive corpse was rolled over to this pit after being dragged over. Natives, soldiers, mercenaries, and healthy prisoners pushed this carcass inside the pit. Shoving the body inside this pit was giving this thing a final big meal.

According to tales and rumors her prisoners were fed to this thing from time to time whenever they did not have an enemy thrown inside. Not very many onlookers watched it eat. Maurice and his superiors left the scene hearing cheering, and joyous cries go on in celebration. From the way the prisoners and natives cheered their nightmare was finally over. Bryce informed Maurice that contact was made with the current Mysdran of the campaign here. Their own people will be picked up and sent home from Oceanrest Var and Kilscar Orvain. The news hit him, blowing his mind away. They were actually going home. Maurice took the news well and laughed himself to a bit of tears. Even Bryce could not help it. Both countrymen gathered their people and gave them the good news. About a thousand or more Vestrisiasns threw their hats in the air, jumped, hugged, kissed, and celebrated. Every one of them broke into sang, singing the anthem. When the anthem was down music started to play and they danced the Vestro-Castarian dance. Their allies watched them and joined in as a flag was raised over the palace. It was the flag of the alliance forged against the invaders. They danced until their legs grew tired.

It was not until the next day did all the forces clear things out and had everything else packed to leave. Their wounded, freed prisoners, and civilians were evacuated first. Many of their native allies chose to leave on foot and by boat. Maurice’s Uxane companion Eyanosa, and the ranger Oraceth said their farewells before departing. What was left of his party gathered after the native and ranger left. Maurice, Amonif, Hilastes, Maphai. Vylinsis, Cagan, Ordoz, Trion, Omareth, Minerva, Toberis, and Odeliah met at the pirate’s ship. All twelve of them boarded the ship bound for the fort. Each one laughed about the absence of the cat steeds and the reptile steeds they rode on this journey. Back at the fort everything that was needed was taken and packed up. They left supplies and everything in the hands of the mercenaries, natives, and the international allies. Maurice discovered all the IBOIS people had gone. In his quarters he discovered a note from Dina saying she would see him in Oceanrest Var. Maurice pocketed the note and boarded the ship.

On the way to Oceanrest Var they dropped off the rest of the Dwarves and those who chose to stay in the Sarcagos. To their surprise Maphai, her crew, and most of the saved people stayed in the mountains. It only made more room on board the pirate’s vessel. Before she said her farewell Maurice tossed her the radio back which she tossed back at him for him to keep. She hollered that it was his to keep. As his ride ascended, he stood at the starboard side watching a friend shrink. He gave her a Vestrisian salute, which she returned. Leaving the Sarcagos behind the ships traveled over the Unknown Lands to Oceanrest Var. The city of Oceanrest Var sat on the coast of the cursed Unknown Lands. It spanned the area of three cities with many smaller settlements such as villages and towns that connected Via roads. This city state had a rich culture made up of different cultures mixed in. If one looked at the culture, they would find bits of Borvados, Uxane, Meze, Nahemine, Lybesan, and a few others from the west. Those cultures were more clan like, blended with religious, class structured cultures, and controlling ones. Many had their traditional clothing mixed in as well. He recognized shawls, tunics, headdresses, dresses, and shirts.

His place was not as a tourist, but as a Captain about to return home. Entire units of his countrymen came to the docks. Here they were greeted by IBOIS members, some natives, locals, Exiled Soldiers, and a company of new young soldiers of the marine branch. They said their farewells to the pirates who went off to drink in the taverns of this city’s port. Many of their wounded had to be housed in the harbor warehouse and shacks while they waited for the fleets to come pick them up.

            It would be a week before they arrived. This gave them time to get acquainted with being out of the Unknown Lands. Maurice spent a great deal of time with his countrymen. Each one shared stories of home, early years of this war, and childhood memories back home. Dina was finally off the hook. She found Maurice at a bar and tavern. The two of them shared a drink or two making Maurice a little more drunk than he should. It was here she revealed herself as a long-lost childhood friend who was ripped away by an angry aunt who saw a better future elsewhere. The two long lost friends embraced overjoyed by the news. Each one shared their lives between the time they lost track of one another and their parts of this war. For the rest of the time in Oceanrest Var they received news of what happened during the days they were missing. Without warning Tenno approached him with a salute. She ultimately surprised him and others with a hug and kiss on the face. Tenno presumed this with each brave soul who partook in the rescue mission.

            By the time their rides came very one was full of excited energy and good news. When they began to board the anthem was sang to them in greeting. It filled their hearts with warm feelings and set their minds at ease. His unit was housed in a passenger’s cabin. Maurice believed he would have a cabin of his own until a knock came at the door. He opened the door find Dina at the door with a suitcase and newspaper under one arm. She wore warm travel clothing showing she had no love for the cold weather or the sea cold. He welcomed her inside letting her take a bunk. Before he said anything else she said she quit the IBOIS. Dina showed him the newspaper which read “Zhenrai Knight’s in the Vestrisian Ranks?” on the headlines. On the bottom was another article titled Lost Vestrisians returning home thanks to Bryce, Tenno, and a Major Maurice Viyamor.

The End?

Commando Part 59

There was no time for them to explore this entire palace, even if they wanted to. Maurice had to find Mommy Gluton and the keys to any cells holding her prisoners. Leading his team through the wall he found a large chamber. It rested in the heart of the palace from the looks of things. Here the palace interior was sectioned off with dividers. This chamber was divided into five extra rooms. One of these rooms was the throne room from the decorations of royalty, and nobility. Maurice suspected these were all stolen from other houses and auctioned off to her. Whoever was left of the Caligari army either fled, committed suicide, or cut down by an ally or deserted. A pair of wounded Gantronese staggered around in search for a way out. Behind the throne room some fighting went on. It seemed to have ended when the Gantronese made it halfway to them. Behind all the dividers he could hear chatter, whimpering, and chattering of teeth.

A heavily armored humanoid burst out of the throne room. Giving out a roar of a war cry the humanoid raised its weapon, a Warhammer before giving chase to its next target. It went after the Gantronese who fought back to no avail. Then it turned to him and blindly charged at Maurice. Acting quick Maurice and his team opened fire. The Warhammer wielding humanoid collapsed on the floor. Each one waited a moment to see if anyone else would come out. They ignored the screams and went straight for the throne room leaving the humanoid to die. He wasted no time in shoving the dividers down. Inside what was supposed to be the throne room lay couches, chairs, large cushions, sofas, low beds, and backless couches. A few corpses lay on these pieces and on the floor. Sitting upon a hill of pillows, cushions, and a massive bed was a large fat woman with grotesque skin wrapped in large pieces of fabric for clothing. The fabric was sewn together to make clothing for what is presumed to be Mommy Gluton herself. Her hair was messy and curly, her skin was greyish, limbs were the size of pigs, and flabs of skin suck out. Nails were long like small knives and black as if she had them painted black. Gluton Caligari appeared to have been shot multiple times and stabbed by many assailants. Yet she was still alive despite the wounds.

Behind him he heard a large force come in through many halls that ended at the chamber. He stood in the throne room gazing at this pile of flesh. Maurice was oblivious to the other occupants of the throne room. Soldiers tore down the dividers allowing the fearful people to rush out. Bryce and Tenno came up to his side. Each one wanted a word with this Syndicate Boss. In between coughs, babbling, and spasms she told them where the prisoners were located. Without hesitation he marched up to the colossal woman. In a commanding voice he demanded she hand over the keys. With a fat arm she reached for her neck and ripped off a chain that held the keys.

The defeated Caligari tossed the keys to him. It was the last thing she did before drawing her last breath. More Soldiers and warriors poured in the chamber. Bryce handed the keys over to Maurice. He immediately darted for the far corner of the chamber. Shouldering his way through the gathering crowd he found a few members of his party. Toberis, Minerva, Amonif, and Oraceth bumped into him in the crowd. One by one they joined him.

Five companions maneuvered through the crowded chamber that was still filling up. In the very back of this chamber they discovered a hidden door. Behind this hidden door lay a set of stairs. As if no one saw them or noticed they descended to this lower level of the palace. Taking these stairs brought them to dungeons. Caligari’s dungeons were dimly lit with a few lights and lanterns. Maurice took out a flashlight he was equipped with. The flashlight flickered when he turned it on. He illuminated the dungeon revealing walls covered in muck and residue. Hanging from ceilings, walls, arches, and support beams were chains, shackled chains, ropes, skeletons, corpses, and critters scurrying about. Among all this they found the prisoners they were searching for this whole time. The dungeons went underneath the very layout of the palace. Every hall, or section held a dozen prisoners.

Maurice raced over to the closest one discovering it was a Vestrisian who has been held here for some time. He ordered for the rest to help as he freed his countrymen. Overjoyed to see freedom the poor soul cried in his shoulder. He rocked and hushed him before freeing another. When he let another free more help arrived to free the rest of the prisoners. It took a few minutes, but they manage to free one hundred and four of the vestrisians who had been missing in action and captured. Through the process of freeing the vestrisians they found more prisoners.

Approximately 144 others were held in the dungeons. They consisted of warriors, soldiers, nobles, travelers, druids, mages, explorers, tribal elves, barbarians, canine tribesmen, pirates, beast hunters, archers/hunters, duelists, gunslinger ranchers, knights, bird like humanoids, and children who believe themselves adventurers. Every one of these people were held under the captivity of the Caligari Syndicate. This brought the total of prisoners to 248 freed captives who were brought out of the nightmarish palace. Because of the fighting and Caligari’s ruthlessness most of the houses of the settlements were abandoned. Out all the families that were once there just two hundred thirty-six families remained. To their misfortune they were stuck inside this area by force and due to the fighting.  None of them wanted either settlement home. Even they were prisoners, held against their will. In a heart beat's notice these families begged to be taken with them. Maurice had to assist his superiors and other officers with these families after helping their own wounded, dead, and the other prisoners. Many of these families hailed from other parts of the world, at least the places closest to the unknown lands.

There were families from countries like Eoth, Vunnace, Grussia, East Koriv, Kilscar Orvain, and a few other city-states. His superiors advised all of them to have patience while they sort things out. Because of his colonels orders he had to write down names, places of origins, and occupations. Every vessel was currently unavailable due to refueling. Crews either refueled with reserves or stole the fuel from any Gantronese ships. It took them a few days before big decisions on moving were made.

Small Frisian Raiders

April 29 1623 marked the fifth year of the Religious Conflict between Protestants and Catholics of Europe. It also was a marking point for the eighty years war between the Dutch, and the Iberian Peninsula mainly Hapsburg Spain. For 55 years the Dutch have been fighting these Spanish speaking soldiers who keep sending ships outward either to return in fewer numbers or none at all. Rumors of this fleet's destination reached the ears of many Dutch citizens and those whom the people forgot even exist. Whatever conflict was occurring over that vast ocean was over that same piece of land someone named Christopher Columbus ran into thinking he had reached Asia. It was not until years later when someone else realized and pointe out the existence of a new world to explore. 

However these Dutch humans were starting expand outward beyond their own little United Province as they might as well call it. On the rocks near one of the Dutch islands a group of Tan Noz sat watching a fleet of eleven ships set sail from the port. None of them knew the name of the port nor cared to ask the humans. To them humans were like food and belongings were valuable, and made for good merchandize to trade with other Goblins and some Sprites of Europe. Most trade came from the vast island called Britannia, and the Island of Ireland. Although they originated in Breton these Tan Noz separated from the rest of the group who set up camp in rocky places along the coasts. For nearly an hour they watched the fleet plotting to set up a lure for such a large fleet. Yet it would fail as there was no storm and it was day time when this small armada embarked. 

Tan Noz are descendants of Hooks who breaded with other fairies, and mermaids. This gave them more a prettier look compared to their ancestors. It did not kill their behavior or their appetite for human flesh. On dark nights or during storms they would often lure stranded ships by attracting them their way and dashing them against rocks so they could pillage what was left. Standing at three feet tall a Tan Noz named Libby sharpened a broken rapier that suited her needs and height. Her eyes were on a Fluyt that was headed home. Her brothers and partners were busy setting up a trap using stolen lamps to attract this vast vessel towards their island. It took all day to set this up forcing them to use the lanterns too much to their liking. When everything was set up and ready their leader waved a large lantern in the air drawing the ship's attention. 

All of her friends and family counted on her, and her team to pull this gig off at the right moment otherwise everything would be lost in the sea. There were times when these humans would send out armed parties to chase after them resulting in skirmishes. A few of their own died whereas most of the parties were too large or too numerous to take on at once. She believed if they got a hold the smaller types of guns that were rare then they could ambush small parties of these humans who thought they were just little rascals, vandals, and scavengers stealing from their Company. Moments later she heard a crash in the water as if something big smashed into the rocks. Screams, wood cracking, and breaking along with the waters splashing about entered her ears. It sort of got to her making her shutter a little. A fellow raider lit a lantern and illuminated the area. She then heard a whistle signaling to commence the pillaging. Libby raced over to the wreck where the humans had crashed in the rocks and the island. 

They came at the humans like a storm of flesh and steel. Aboard this vessel were not just human but other creatures who hid from the crews. Because of the wreck most of the crew were dead, wounded or had abandoned ship for other shores. Among the crew of Dutchmen were goblin-gnome creatures who appeared loyal to the ship and launched at them in waves. Libby's raiding party fought them off before making their way to the wreck. Like hounds on a prey they killed or captured most of the surviving sailors before a larger wave of these creatures came at them. One of these creatures had an ugly appearances a wagging tongue, and thick beard. This one brushed her weapon aside and attempted to mount her against a splintered deck. It was knocked off her by one of the leaders. Libby was too traumatized and held back from the rest of the raid. What did that thing want she asked herself. Libby was too scared to think about it and sat out the rest of the raid. 

Commando Part 58

A brigade of soldiers, warriors, mercenaries, pirates, and other fighters listened to the plan one last time. A garrison of three hundred fifty were ordered to stay behind with the I.B.O.I.S. people. The main force would head for the Caligari Palace while the rest stayed to defend the fort. All the ground forces would be dropped off after the first bombardment from the airships. Any loose artillery would be placed in firing range of the enemy camps and the palace. Every unit available will race towards the enemy camps where their assault begins. This assault was to be executed swiftly giving the enemy little time to react. Each unit of personnel were assigned a mission for this assault. Maurice’s unit were to head straight into the city and enter the palace. All other unit involved were to assault the enemy positions. Their high command was uncertain about the civilians in the region.

            Once the briefing was done a brigade set off to its destination which only took half a day. Everyone was expecting the enemy to have reinforcements. Many of them knew how the Gantronese operated in a situation like this after receiving a few hits from a hit and run enemy. One question rest of their heads. Did the enemy send spies after them? Maurice and his unit were at the stern of their ride wondering about this question. From there they watched their progress towards the enemy. For two more hours they watched the landscape while listening to a group of crew members sing. Whatever song they sang brought a little solace. Commanding their ride was Captain Inaleth who wept over the slaughter of her people even though she came from another tribe. She still agreed to drive them over to the palace area while everyone agreed to leave her alone.

            Both Captains talked about their lives before this war. She was a member of a royal family from a hidden kingdom along the sea. Her part of the family left due to constant civil war in the kingdom. Maurice revealed his own story to her until he spotted the marsh out of the corner of his eye. All Captains and leaders of their units prepared their troops and parties. Within half an hour of spotting the marsh the fleet arrived. Each vessel circled around wide to fire down on enemy positions. They did not stop until the last one passed over. One could only imagine the carnage and chaos that bombardment caused in the enemy camps. A brigade of over two thousand were then dropped in an area that was not too far from their destination. When their feet landed on the earth they advanced on the bombarded positions. Maurice led a platoon to the marshes with two long boats.

            In moments the area was alive with gunfire that was exchanged between the two sides. Some dropped down to shoot while others continued the advance with shells and machine guns overshooting their heads. He did not stop to watch the battle commence. A soon as they hit the water they plunged forward into the marshes. Going through this marsh brought them away from the fighting for a small amount of distance. Each of the boats rowed around any patches of land, or grass in the marsh. The two boats slowly made their way through the landscape. Maurice ensured they avoided any patrols, which were ambushed. Maurice did not know who it was, but he could not stay and think of who it was.

            By the time they reached the palace it was dark and most of the settlements were now under fire. Acting fast Maurice led his platoon through the small port and the city. Their allies and brethren had pushed deep inside the closest city. However, many defenders that were in the city had been driven to the front. Like burglars in the dark Maurices platoon slipped through alleys and broke into an outer section. Here a few guards stood whom they defeated easily enough. After defeating the small group of guards, they took a narrow street. This part brought them to the main entrance of the palace. One hundred eleven guards protected this entrance. He looked over at the streets where the battle was drawing closer.

            Although his unit was a platoon of thirty a frontal assault could still result in victory. To their fortune none of the guards saw them. He had each member draw a gun. Whether it was pistol, revolver, rifle, assault rifle or repeater it did not matter. Without warning they attacked from the flank. Their sudden attack caught the defenders off guard. More than half the guards lay dead moments after they opened fire. Bodies littered the area in front of the palace entrance. Using the darkness as a friend Maurice’s unit came out to the open taking out more guards. Whoever was left guarding shot back getting a few of the trespassers. A few of the guards made a run for it, showing the attack was too much for them. Any remaining defenders died by their hands as the platoon closed in. This skirmish ended with most of the guards killed, and the rest running away. Five members of his platoon lay dead or wounded.

            He took six of his own men and ordered for the rest to hide. The doors to this palace lay wide open. Not hesitating he rushed inside. When he entered the palace the first thing, he saw was a statue made of bones and skeletons. He did not get a chance to look at tit for very long. A big ugly, scarred humanoid that used to be furry came at him. Maurice killed the humanoid not bothering to check what it really was. His six-man team followed him inside.

            They came to a hall that led from the entrance. Maurice did not bother looking at the walls. His mission was his focus now. All he caught were glimpses of Caligari’s choice of pain and decorations. On the walls were several coats of what looked like blood, and bones for decorations. Caligari goons and other defenders of this palace tried to hold them back. Each skirmish resulted in a casualty from time to time. The hall they took had been renovated to create an illusion. When he turned around he saw the hall had rooms and other halls trailing off. From the way it was built it was one large structure, and it resembled a labyrinth.

A Vestrisian Artillery Squadron

On the front lines their countrymen fought the invaders along the borders. For years they fought this war to hold back small armies who were sent to probe the borders ever since 1845. It was two years ago since they were inside enemy territory of Vimasdra. Yet the enemy pushed them out towards the large mountain range. Behind them lay two cities just 100 miles away from their position. These two cities had a history of dealing with invaders for centuries and fielded their own small armies of militia. All day they fired rounds of  artillery shells at the oncoming enemy columns of poorly built armored vehicles that moved like snails through a sea of corpses.

Sitting on a small hill an artillery squadron manned the hill they were ordered to hold. Although they had troops at the front holding the enemy back from trenches, pillboxes, and foxholes, there was still a few lines of reserves and artillery. In one artillery squadron were one or two artillery guns, a five man team working the gun, two fire teams defending the flank, and two more behind them providing supporting fire. Twenty Vestrisians fired their weapons over the heads of those ahead of them at a company of strange invaders who scurried out of their light APC's. Three of the artillery squadron's fire teams had heavy and light machine guns sending bursts after the small creatures in uniforms who were drafted by the Nazdar. One of the fire teams had only three members the squadron leader either a Captain or Lieutenant was shouting out orders. The rest of the squadron members were armed with rifles, repeaters, and sub machine guns.

Vestrisians is what they called themselves, because of their continent was known as Vestrisia. It was made up of many states, nations, kingdoms and was home to many other races. United as a Union of Republics and States these Vestrisians were willing to fight the invaders and push back once the enemy wore itself out. Captain Loaverik barked at his Lieutenant to keep the shells coming as a unit of Grevaskii pressed the advance on the front trenches. He paused for a moment to see other squadrons doing the same thing only they had different targets. In his head he calculated more than a few hundred artillery pieces firing on the advancing invaders. His teams had to take on the responsibilities in shifts. Each team had to protect the flank, give supporting fire, and man the artillery piece. To his misfortune he had to rely on the ammunition crews to bring in more shells their way.