Near Rednight Fangsir-Izzyr's Discovery

Detective Izzyr and his new companion Bidfrid Fohmir wound their way through Neppetz to the newly constructed morgue. Times were changing and technology evolving swiftly across the world. As far as Izzyr could tell Neppetz and other Dark Elf cities adapted some technologies to their society that was also changing. Still requiring males to serve in the military the Dark Elf society on the surface abandoned some parts of the culture that thrived underground. To some it was disgraceful and showed weakness. Whereas others saw an opportunity to grow, and expand horizons. Detective and Bounty Hunter passed where the Hall of the Dead sat under a hill. It was currently undergoing what was called renovations or restoration so it could still be used. Like many Dark Elf cities Neppetz' streets were too narrow for vehicles to pass through. Transportation had to be done outside the city limits. Modernization was very slow to come to Neppetz and this part of the world. Even news of some strange invaders coming from the stars came to the ears of the Dark Elves slowly. The first wave of these invaders came down almost twenty years ago.  Since their settlements were based in the mountains these invaders did not bother them. According to most of the tales these invaders were far to the north and clashed with each other. 

When they made it to the newly built morgue a family of Goblins exited. Dressed in black the family of fourteen Goblins slowly carried a casket out of the morgue. With their heads bowed low the Goblin family mourned the loss of a member in silence. Izzyr and Bidfrid watched the procession of Goblins head towards the eastern border of the city. Outside the city limits lay the graveyards and cemeteries. Down the street from where the morgue was built stood a group of those who knew this deceased Goblin. One of the family friends carried what looked to be a small Wyvern carved out of wood. They carried the wood figure behind the funeral procession as more friends trailed behind. Izzyr and Bidfrid entered the Morgue once he showed his badge to the doorman. His rank and profession allowed him access to all structures while he performed his duty. Both men went past the staff of the morgue who looked up with concerned faces, glares, squinted eyes, and surprised faces. Izzyr asked one of them for Abane's body. After meeting Bidfrid in the northern part of the city he conversed with him. It was not much of an investigative questioning, but it did lead to some questions. Was this really Abane's body? Following the staff member through the morgue's hallways they came to the body storage. As they entered he felt how cold these storages were on his face. The staff member unlocked one of the cadaver lockers that held Abane's body. Pulling on a metal slider the staff member revealed a covered corpse. When they unveiled it for them to view it Bidfrid wrinkled his nose and knitted his eyebrows. 

"Is this her, Bidfrid?" Izzyr asked him. The staff member remained silent more annoyed by their presence than their own job to maintain the condition of bodies before burial. 

"No that is not her?" Bidfrid replied. He stormed out of the room leaving the Detective and the staff member. Taking one last look at the body Izzyr noticed stab wounds, and signs of strangulation. He motioned for the staff member to put the body away. Izzyr left the storage giving chase to Bidfrid. The Detective found the tall humanoid outside the Morgue with his arms crossed. He did not look please at all. 

"What do you think happened to the real Abane?" he asked Izzyr. He was taken aback for a moment. 

"I believe she is not in the city, and hiding somewhere." Izzyr answered. Bidfrid pounced on him grabbing by the throat. His face was against Izzyr's nose. 

"Do not accuse Abane of such childish actions! She would never play games with authorities! That body was not her! She is somewhere either dead or someone's slave!" Bidfrid growled at him causing a scene that attracted attention. 

"Let me go or the authorities will toss you in a cell!" He hissed at him. Out of the corner he spotted some Neppetz Police heading their way. Dressed in neat uniforms with vests over them the newly formed police patrolled the streets and kept the peace while the guards kept watch over the walls. 

Bidfrid released him allowed Izzyr to wave off the police. He acted like it was nothing until there were no eyes on them. Izzyr  massaged his throat as he regained himself. Looking at the Bounty Hunter in the face he wanted to find the real Abane. This new discovery would only cause alarm. Her employer and family would have to be informed any ways. 

"What is next?" Bidfrid asked him. 

"We need to tell my boss, the Osseerus family, and Abane's family. Then we need to find out what happened to the real Abane." Izzyr answered him. 

"Then we waste no time. Back to the north." Bidfrid responded. He lead them back up north through the city. 

"Everyone thinks she is dead, but us." Bidfrid said as they made their way through an empty alley way. 

"Let me report to my boss after we regroup up north." Izzyr suggested, following him. 

"Good I will gather a host to help us search for her. It is likely she would have gone back to her employers if she were alive." Bidfrid insisted. 

"Very well. I do not doubt that unless she is being held captive." Izzyr added. 

"Or lost." Bidfrid put in. 

They made it to the northern part of the city where a team of 25 sorted archers and fighters prepared to man the walls. Taking a left along the base of the wall the pair of them passed 36 Orcs, Elves, and Dwarf automaton constructs hung out. Each one wore a uniform of some kind. Izzyr did not know all the guilds of the city like he should. He assumed they were part of a few guilds within Neppetz. Most chose to serve the city acting as security, hired hands, bodyguards, and beast slayers. It was not unusual for a few creatures or monsters to slip into the city. 

The last Necromancer of Tantos

 Whoever this lad was he sounded like trouble through Gredaro's ears. He exited the Commerce Center with a troop of arcane colleagues, the pirates, and a few others who came there for business. Backshot talked into his ears as they progressed out of the area down the street. Thanks to his connections with Dippelboager, his colleagues, and Perdi he learned the wizards had gathered some fighters and mercenaries for hire. An Elf Wizard from Luvahan managed to hire some 34 Knights and soldiers. These are hired hands who hailed from various islands and other continents. Somewhere on one of the islands a female half-Goblin promised a crew of 42 pirates riches from some other plane. Gredaro scoffed at that. He could only imagine how much trouble that arcane user would be in if she entered one of those planes. According to Odolin One trio of known Wizards have 63 warriors look up to them from Evusia. Due to their fame those warriors rallied behind them. Appanos added another unit of 31 gunslingers, outlaws and renegades flocked to one wizard due to their curiosity.  Velenus boasted about a few engineer-wizards building a small force of 27 automatons for combat. As they passed a few buildings he heard about a Temple witch rallying 613 Dragon Knights from three different territories of the Gantronese Empire. Tallying up all the numbers in his head Gredaro estimated a force of 1,361 for their army so far. 

When they paused at a crosswalk Gredaro glanced over at them. They did not mention the rest of the arcane wizards' forces since that information was not handed over freely. Among the other arcane users driven from their homes spread the fear of spies. Gredaro looked around them seeing the many citizens of the Tante Republic minding their own business. It was as though there was no war going on. Focusing one eye on a family of half elves passing them he realized the Tante Republics were neutral in this conflict. It gave off an uncomfortable feeling this would bite the VUVR in the buttocks at some point. He turned around to see his rewards in the arms of the pirate crew and the mercenaries who looked ready to part ways for this day.  When it was clear to cross the street, they moved as one with other Tantus citizens walking alongside them. Most appeared wary of the wizards. Others avoided eye contact with the pirate crew. Making their way across the groups split up. Pirates and Mercenaries took a left turn, but had to wait for the traffic to clear. Gredaro and his fellow Wizards pressed on down the street with Dippelboager accompanying them. For several minutes they took the sidewalk up to a line of vehicles that appeared to be waiting for someone. One by one his colleagues stopped to enter the vehicles. He entered one of them with a sign on top that read Public Chauffeur. Riding with Eforahim and Veleus, Gredaro discussed some plans for future action. Their new Goblin Mage affiliate, whom they haven't even met yet already went ahead with the first attacks. 

According to some newspaper another battle was underway south of the Unknown Lands. Just the way it read he could not tell if it was over or if it was still going on. However, it depicted the coalition of allies as the victors. More was to be added to this story once the reports came in from Vestrisian reporters, journalists, and those big mouth Ruhonthrans. Rumors about some strange metal towers and islands was said to be found past the Arm of Lost Souls. One even mentioned more alien factions. Those were being dismissed by the VUVR claiming those were not clear enough. He only read comments from various representatives, politicians, and other higher-ranking officials. As their own little convoy took a turn something hit the vehicle in front of the convoy. Forced to come to a halt the convoy stopped at once. All of the arcane colleagues got out ready for an ugly encounter. What they found was something from a nightmare or some accounts that involve black sorcery. Five zombies with iron collars, five humanoids with signs of experimenting, and mechanical limbs holding swords flanked from one side of the street. Gredaro's body turned around to see more flanking groups of abominations, and zombified humanoids. He also spotted what caused them to stop. The leading vehicle hit a creature of large stature. It was hard to tell if it was something he never saw before or some mad creation. A steel shell could be seen behind the wrecked vehicle. Springing into action Gredaro's own colleagues took care of their attackers. Some were shocked with lightning sparks from the fingers, others flamed, a few were slammed against the brick walls of the buildings in the street they entered. The rest were gunned down with modern pistols and revolvers they chose to carry around. 

Gredaro did not get to check the true number of their attackers. He was not fond of counting, but it did help with morale to see how many cronies a hostile lost among their ranks. From his side of the street two groups of armed figures dressed up as skeletons poured out of two alleyways. He did not know how many were on the other side, but on his side of things one zombified humanoid shambled its way out. Behind it followed seven off world looking humanoids, and eight goons dressed in a dark green attire armed with various guns. Gredaro threw several fireballs at them hitting the zombie and nailing a few goons. In the alley he spotted five more cowering against the walls. He was shot at by the flanking goons who came under fire from the ones he was with. Gredaro was hit in the leg and the arm. An exchange of fireballs, sparks, objects, and bullets filled the one street causing a few fires. He did not know if anyone else was hit, but he did watch two more goons die. Six of the nonnatives died on his side of the street. Reduced to a smaller number the attackers slunk back into the dark alleys. Gredaro felt hands grab him up as sirens screamed from other streets. The stinging pain from being shot numbed his limbs. All he could do was let the arms of bystanders, and his colleagues get him on a stretcher. 

Just the sky, faces of helpers, and the tops of the flanking buildings hovered in his viewpoint. They carried him to another vehicle where he was slid inside next to another victim, one of their drivers. A pair of nurses climbed in the back to patch him up. One of them put syringe in him that injected a strange liquid into his body. Whatever it was it took him out. Gredaro woke up in a hospital bed for the first time in his life. His right leg, and left arm were in bandages. Flanking him was a bedside table, a tall lamp, and curtains on both sides acting like a divider. He was in a hospital gown with clear wires and tubes injecting blood into him from a hanging blood bag. Feeling himself again he wiggled in his bed adjusting himself. Two nurses came to his side assisting the Wizard. He wanted to object, but the words did not escape his lips. Making him feel like a helpless infant the nurses adjusted him and his bed. They left him alone to tend to other patients. 

At first he did not see his family standing on the other side of the doorway. Fytbak Magris the Goblin, his pupil Amerius, Gredaro's maid Icude Vozat, and his Mage in training Pasior entered the room. All four of them flanked the Wizard with distraught faces. Gredaro closed his eyes for a moment reciting an old phrase his master said to calm him down. It was an old incantation passed down from arcane user to arcane user that calmed people down. Amerius wiped tears from his own eyes. Pasior sniffled a little then cleaned up the tears from her cheeks. Fytbak was able to fight the tears back, but Icude let the tears roll down her cheeks. He looked at each of them searching for the words for them. Will you be alright Master was a question he saw in their eyes. None of them spoke for a few moments. 

"Is this the first time you have been shot?" Fytbak the half goblin from Cydnam asked him. It was indeed the first time. 

"Yes Fytbak it is." He answered feeling the stinging pain of the wounds. His eyes went to the bandages where he was shot. 

"Are you sure this is his first time?" Pasior asked the Half-Goblin. "He went up against some nefarious dark wizards, and mages three years ago outside of Oceanrest Var." 

"Pasior, I thought I told you not to say a word about that." He scolded the female Mage in Training. The short haired female teen gulped and slunk back a little in her robes and Tantosian outfit. An outfit he did not agree with, but at least it covered her. 

"Sorry Master." She answered. 

"Master? Who did you-" Amerius was cut off. 

"Never mind that for now Amerius, I want you to return to your studies. Once I am fully healed, we will begin practicing all that you have learned. As for you Pasior do not wander the streets alone. There are plenty of dangers in these streets despite this nations neutrality." He commanded both of his pupils. Amerius nodded obediently, whereas Pasior folded her arms turning away. 

"Fytbak see that they obey my commands. Icude continue helping Perdi." He ordered the two members of his formed family. 

The door opened again, Odolin, and Eforahim entered with Dippelboager behind them. Gredaro sent his family off back to Perdi's place. He waited for them to leave the room before he addressed the trio of partners. Both arcane wizards, and the middleman held smug grins on their faces. One of them held a newspaper in his hands. Eforahim held out this paper to Gredaro's face. It was some newspaper known as THE COURIER DAILY. Below the name of the paper read the title of the first page story. LAST NECROMANCER OF TANTOS DISTURBED an article by Regine Backlasher. Just reading the title confused him. 

"What is this?" Gredaro asked them. 

"This means our movement will get more notice! Plus, donations and extra volunteers will flock to our ranks. Bringing this necromancer out of the shadows has stirred up the local gangs. None of them can operate without the local authorities sniffing them out or catching them red handed." his colleague explained. 

"While I am healing our movement will begin receiving recognition? What could I do during that time?" Gredaro asked them. 

"You could keep track of donations as they come in while inside Perdi's home. Plus, that lad with the ship has just been notified. Backshot and her pirates found him." Odolin told him. 

"How long have I been out?" He asked them. Something he should have asked from the very beginning. 

"Well, you were sort of in a comma for a full day. That did not bode well with your um family." Dippelboager replied to him. 

"In case you are required to lead troops I went ahead and requested for someone to fill in for you." Eforahim informed Gredaro who gave him a perplexed expression. 

"Who? Who did you contact?" Gredaro forced himself upright with his good arm ignoring the stings. 

"A Zhenrai Warrior from Ivodra." Eforahim answered. 

Near Rednight Fangsir

Ever since this settlement was founded along the coastal mountains, Neppetz became a hotbed of monster attacks. Slammed between the ocean and the mountains the city was closer to the infamous Rednight Fangsir mountain-city. More of a Dark Elf settlement founded closer to a thousand years ago, Neppetz received a wide range of trade from other parts of the continents. This allowed the Dark Elves access to other parts of the world. Many chose to leave when they could as a means of escape. After a few decades of travelling, they always returned home to the city of 150,000 Dark Elves, Uxane, Dwarves, and civilized Goblins. Standing at 6 foot 3, one lean muscled figure made his way through the streets. Dressed in a white, red striped shirt under a fine Jerkin, smoothed out black trousers, and toughened boots this figure kept a neat posture. Wearing his mountain duster this tall part goblin, part uxane and part Dark Elf held the profession as Detective of the City-Region. His jurisdiction went beyond the borders of the city limits making his job easier for him to perform. 

Detective Izzyr Nadisim entered a street known as Dagger Street within the Black District of Neppetz City. At the entrance to the street he was greeted by two rows of 29 strumpets clad in revealing clothing. Many of them looked more human with some hints of Goblin, Elf, and Dark Elf. Some gave him interested looks as the rest brushed their hands against him while he passed through. One blocked his way revealing herself before him. She put her hands on his and placed them on her exposed breasts. Izzyr fondled her a little just to get it over with. He was not the most innocent of males, however he had a job to do for this city. When she let him go on his way the majority of them cackled and giggled behind his back. Ignoring the laughter, he pressed further down the street. Everything was a darkish green up and down this street. The only thing making this city less dreary were the strumpets behind him lingering by the black gated entryway to Dagger Street. Flanking this two-way cobbled street were stone two story houses, complexes, shops, a smoker's den, and a few distilleries where alcohol was made. Dagger Street was not the kind of place one raised a family here in Neppetz. Its authorities made sure of that. Only single men or women were allowed to live here if they had the nerves, and stomach to deal with the scum here. 

Izzyr passed a few abandoned homes when he came upon a trio of Blither Wood Warriors. Outside Neppetz's western city limits lay the Blither Woods. During the early years of the city's foundation bands of warriors in the Blither Woods kept the borders secure. They were more of the savage type of Dark Elf who kept mostly to themselves. Very seldom did anyone hear from the Blither bands who only came to the city with goods to sell or when the clans banished someone. Just looking at these three he could tell they were banished. On their right cheek rested a red scar in the ancient Drow rune of shame. As a mark to label them as outcasts the scar made them unworthy to be warriors at all. Their eyes glared at him with black beards growing over the dark complexion of their skin tone. It was because he had to arrest them once or twice in the past. His superiors ordered for them to be brought here to live. From the way they looked the trio did find work, but still held a grudge against him. 

His gaze did not meet theirs for his case was of more importance. Just past these Blithers he came upon a grouping of 20 Goblins caught in some argument in the middle of the street.  What they were arguing about he did not care. It was not his problem nor did it concern the authorities at times. Goblins obeyed the law for most of the year until things got out of hand whenever they did not send a guard, watchman, or police down these streets each week. Izzyr's approach caught their attention and they dispersed to opposite sides of the street. Knowing he just broke up and argument that would end in a fight or bloodshed Izzyr gave them a quick glance. Dressed for the climate these Goblins looked slightly uncomfortable with their own lives. His city handed them decent lodgings with furniture in suitable condition. Food was not scarce for them in Dagger Street that he could see in their eyes. Yet these Goblins tend to be angry over other problems. Past the Goblins Izzyr came upon other groups who dwelled in Dagger Street. A total of 28 warriors from different parts of the world who found their way here lined the street. One of these warriors knew the victim's family and the victim herself. 

One of the wealthier families of the Neppetz hierarchy lost a maid four days ago. Raised in a family of fabric weavers, and smiths Abane Velnis served as a maid to the Osseerus family. Izzyr did not know the full history behind her employ as a maid, but he was tipped off that a warrior knew her family. These 28 warriors covered their clothing under a duster coat, long coat, some colorful poncho, and thick cloaks. Some of them were Eothans, Grussians, Uxane wanderers, Korivans, Talusians, Iperantosi. As for the rest of them Forsythans, and hybrids who call themselves Elemani, and Estati. Izzyr could relate to them due to his own mixed background. He passed eight of them before coming to the one he was looking for.  As rare as Forsythans became there were still plenty roaming the world. One head taller than Izzyr this giant of a being grew his beard out and let his hair grow over his shoulders. On his brow rested the birthmark of a Forsythan, a blue scar in the shape of a claw. 

"Are you one of the Velnis' friends?" Izzyr asked him. The rest of the warriors dispersed to their own homes and apartments. The big man nodded. 

"Can you speak?" He asked him. 

"Of course I can speak." The Forsythan responded back smartly. 

"What is your name?" Izzyr questioned him. 

"My name? Bidfrid Fohmir the Bounty Hunter, and Bodyguard for hire. To answer any further questions, yes I knew Abane well enough to call her a sister. No I did not kill her with two puncture marks to the neck. My own trade had me babysitting some noble visiting out of town through the markets. That is all I can tell you, Drow." Bidfrid replied to Izzyr. 

"Very well, you were close to the family, and you did not do it. Does she know anyone else outside the Osseerus household?" Izzyr asked him. 

"There was this stalker who kept coming to the manor. I had to scare him off a few times. Last year he was found in the cellar. Got in through the sewer system. After he was thrown out he took his time to leave the city. I decided to follow him all the way to Rednight Fangsir. If you want to find him you will need me to tag along." Bidfrid answered. 

"Her body was found outside the city, two days after her disappearance. Could this stalker be involved with a vampiric cult?" Izzyr explained wanting to pin it on the vampiric cults that stalked the countryside and sewers. 

"Let me pack a bag then meet me in the northern edge of the city." Bidfrid responded. 

Gredaro's Past, Privateers, New Ship and new rewards

Meeting the other 128 arcane users and wizards would take some time. Although they had been here to recruit they were no on this one. They resided on the other islands in the Tante Republic and archipelago. Once breakfast was over Gredaro made a mental note to return to Dippelboager. His own pupils were busy with their studies, his own maid was busy, and Fytbak working on his own experiments. Gredaro saw this as a good opportunity to check on his valuables, the valuables he still possessed since the days when his lovers were still alive. Checking his private room he opened one of the closest where he kept them hidden. Small chests, and Jewelry boxes were pulled out. Opening each one he took out whatever he stashed in them. In the back were more items he still kept since the days of his lovers. None of them still lived. He needed to move on. What he needed to do now was to get rid of all these valuables. Gredaro would never have children or a wife. That was his belief since the last lover died. Checking the back he found a black watch for a female which he pocketed, a Dragon pendant wrapped in a velvet cloth, a bag of 30 pieces of Djinns from Morgadra, a currency used in Nahem, and Meze all in one small black chest. In the corners of the closet he found 2 sets of child's gold armor meant for one his lover's children. Inside a thin box under a shelf in the chest he found 11 rings that he held on to. With the armor he found a pair of nunchaku from Vorcadam. A few barbarian coins from Khet, which made him laugh and smile. Yet laughing and smiling hurt because she was not there any more. Inside another bag he found 30 keys to various treasures and time capsules left all over two continents. At the bottom of the black chest he found a Cat Goddess Pendant necklace from Badraan. On the floor wrapped in a nice silk shirt he found a Bronze Elephant God statue from Koriv. Memories of his three lovers whom he shared a life with returned to him with agonizing pain that came. Neither of them knew each other. One by one he met them only to watch them die. All the adventures he had with them before going into hiding returned like a tornado of memories. 

With each adventure they brought back loot, and rewards together. Among those would make one long list an editor would grind their teeth at for run on lists. This included a fancy gold watch, fire Drake Hairpin, Dragon Pendant, an Obsidian Dragon-Phoenix Pendant, a barbarian bracelet worth plenty of gold, a steel Lycan dual amulet, one chain reptile bracelet, Ancient Kaniiman Necklace, 5 Hammer of Saints Necklaces, a love letter pendant which he tossed across the room before bursting into tears. Regathering himself Gredaro proceeded to bring out more rewards for his army. It hurt him too much just keeping those reminders. Inside a chest with a wolf symbol was a Wolf Bracelet, Wolf Hammer Chain Necklace, a Dragon trinket box with nothing inside, a multi-gem necklace, and a sack of 35 gems of his lovers choice. Other items included a pair of silver earrings, which he thought would nice for the Captain, a Dragon's Eye Locket, a large ring of an old foe one of the killed a life time ago. How long he still possessed all these he did not know. He lost count of the years. Once he regained his composure and calmed his emotions he packed up what he could carry and returned to Dippelboager's. 

Taking Perdi's cab he had himself driven over to the Commerce Center. Gredaro reached the building with most of what he wanted to pay the pirates, and their mercenaries with. It was also another way to get rid of the items that reminded him of lost lovers. Using his levitation spells he brought the chests her stored them in with him. Entering the building he was given some concerned, shocked, and bewildered expressions as he entered in his traditional robes. One employee dropped everything as though they never saw a Wizard before. Ignoring all of the looks he got this Wizard made it up to the level of Dippelboager's office. At a quickened pace he entered the hall to find 40 pirates seated along the wall. The 43 pirates Dippelboager mentioned were here to enlist. One of them waved a hello to him and beckoned for him to join them. Gredaro hesitated for a moment. Realizing these pirates would be his new mercenary allies the Wizard sat down. One of them wore a modern hat depicting two steer horns. Their name was Wakkus Eriagson their pirate name was Ox Barrel. Wakkus was about to tell his own story when Dippelboager's door swung open. Gredaro's arcane colleagues exited first followed by the Captain of the pirate crew and Dippelboager himself. Odolin, and Veleus were hand picked to represent their entourage of Wizards and hired help. Gredaro was spotted with the rewards he came with. 

"Hello Gredaro are those your payment to the pirates and mercenaries?" Odolin asked giving him a worried smile. 

"You don't have to give away your possessions like this! We have plenty to give in terms of payment." Veleus pointed out to him looking worried for him. 

"I cannot keep going with all of these in my life. I have to move on! If these pirates and mercenaries desire payment. Then let this pay my contribution to their payment for fighting this war." Gredaro shook his fist at his colleagues standing his ground. His colleagues relented as the privateers cheered him on. A female captain exited the office. Donning some old vintage pirate attire this female pirate looked like she jumped out of a play of some sorts meant for adults. She waltzed up to Gredaro and planted a kiss on his bearded cheek. 

"My crew and I are for hire Master Gredaro. Do you have a ship?" She asked him. "Pardon me Captain Black Tigress Lulu Backshot." 

"If we put our funds together we can see if we have enough to buy us a ship." Dippelboager butted in a little. His face almost touched Backshot's shoulder. Gredaro watched his eyes wander all over her and tried to focus. 

"Then who owns a ship, and will they be willing to sell one big enough for 560 or more passengers?" Gredaro asked doing the math in his head. 

"I know of a young lad who owns a ship all to himself. His family recently left him." Backshot replied walking her fingers on his arm. 

Gredha's Failure

 Whatever she was trying to do it did not work. He was still free and roaming the area. Ston Par, Hyfashara, Theillond, Beegris, Fokoh, Dyekatt, Toanne, Black Cobrah, Symnir, and Oragno now faced further raids. Ten cities under the Gantronese rule relied on her to deal with the insurgency that sprung up. It couldn't have been worse timing as well. Right after those Vestrisians pushed into the Unknown Lands, a fleet sunk a bunch of wizards rallied an army to combat the mighty Gantronese Empire. Allover what was still considered the Unknown Lands some Eothan outcast started a little uncertain insurgency. Little was known how many flocked to his cause. What was most certain was the force she was sent with crumbled at the base of large mountain ranges. 

No more than a thousand set out in pursuit of this insurgent. Most of them died whereas a few left them. Granted the title as Colonel, Gredha Oto Ponghan held herself in the highest esteem. Her Gantronese Daimyo gave her the task of putting down the insurgency that started from the slums of Symnir, and the mountain city of Theillond. Gredha observed a map of the territories praying the Vestrisians, and their allies would stay out of this region. Ever since the Gantronese arrived peace was restored among the city-states. She felt the pain of her loss during the last engagement against the insurgent Direglow whose real name was unknown. Among the loss were 6 bunny humanoids who died for Gredha who came down from the stars. Some ninja order of 200 members, and 138 acolytes lost their lives in the weeklong fight. One unit of 24 Gladiators from Black Cobrah City, 17 local fighters and heroes she handpicked. Thanks to the Gantronese connections star knights came down only to lose 200 of their brothers. One large sentient reptile roaming the borders of the mountains lost its life to what she believed was a Zhenrai. Pledging their swords to her a band of sword mistresses lost two sisters. Being the only Dwarf a former Paladin took arms just to lose his life in battle. Although she did not trust them, Gredha gathered barbarians two of whom left to join the VUVR military. Within her battalion 120 "droids" and their two alien puppeteers fell during the weeklong conflict. They were lost to gunfire, rain, rocky terrain, and bashed to pieces in ambushes that caught them in dense woods. Virtuous warriors from Talus, Gora-via, and Vorcadam lost 6 colleagues to the insurgents. An ambitious amphibian warrior seeking wives for his breeding habits died with a bullet through the chest. 

Gredha grieved for these losses knowing her failure would be noted to the Gantronese governors. Her remaining 274 bunny humanoids, ninjas, space Dragon Knights, virtuous warriors, barbarians, and fighters began resting more often. Their wounds needed to be healed after dealing with a larger force of insurgents than they believed. Reports from locals said Direglow only had a few hundred at a time. In their rushed pursuit they found he led close to 8,000. Caught in the rain under the branches of some woods Gredha's forces engaged Direglow's forces while they pressed into the mountains. Her mission was to corner Direglow and end his insurgency in the Gantronese area of East Talus. Instead, she lost 726 managing to kill 408 insurgents. Watching the other 7000 disappear into the mountains under the cover of dark rain clouds demoralized Gredha and those who still stood. Behind her another battalion of 1,305 collaborators from the city-states, and Vorcadam came in. Under the leadership of Collaborator Colonel Ugai Cirann of Oragno this back up battalion helped her forces get the wounded down. 

Colonel Cirann entered her command tent to find Gredha grieving in her night robes. Seeing him enter in the middle of her grieving startled her. Gredha did not expect anyone to enter her tent until she gave the word. Guess his rank overruled any of her guards. She would have them punished, but what was the use. This latest defeat was punishable enough. Having that insurgent Direglow in her grasp only to see him slip away due to bigger numbers became overbearing to keep composure. Wiping away tears she welcomed the fellow Collaborator Colonel to her quarters. In her own traditional garb Gredha served him a local heated alcohol served to sooth pain of grieving. The two of the sat down in her pair of round wicker chairs with covered cushions. Silence filled the room until he broke the silence. Ugai gave her some news about the southern part of East Talus. Several warbands of Gnolls and Troglodytes came down from the mountains while she was on the hunt for Diregrow. These warbands somehow slipped past her scouts' notice. Looking down on the rug she saw this as part of her failure. Gredha held the mug in her hand listening to Ugai explain how the warbands were dealt with by the Gantronese alongside hired Nazdar Grevaskii troopers. All Gredha did was glare at him stating she was on a mission to pursue Direglow not protect the south. Their Gantronese Masters could send a battalion or a brigade of their best soldiers here if they like. Gredha spat on the floor of her own tent. She took a few sips of her drink pondering over her own failure. What did she miss? 

The Grussian Front

 Running down the hill he made for the patch of woods where his fifteen fellow Grussians hid. At the very borders of their beloved Grussia, Vunnace, and Mulzan just 16 Grussian riflemen with their box beards, and their pillbox caps. Armed with the standard Wolf-10 shot repeater rifle, the new Silver 13mm Assault Rifle, and the Ark valley 44 bolt action rifles these 16 Grussians waited for their allies to show up. On the other side of those woods lay the borders of Mulzan, a revered enemy of both Vunnace and Grussia. For nearly two thousand years they fought the Mulzan over control of the bordering mountains. Taking things a little too far to their like the Mulzaneen allied themselves with a new ally who came down from the heavens decades ago. This emboldened the Mulzaneen to attack them in full force. Grussia, and Vunnace were barely able to hold on by a thread until the other invaders supplied them with new weapons to hold them back. This was of course during the rivalry between the invaders. Truth be told these invaders handed their knowledge of new weapons to various kingdoms and states who were not conquered yet. It was a means to create a minor buffer, set back and a distraction while their larger ships attacked the other's ships while docked. 

Vunnace was the first to witness the two empires destroy each others floating metal warships. If either of these empires were going to conquer this world it was going to be without any heavy bombardment from above. As those conflicts dragged on more nations made them agree to allow their sovereignty to remain untouched. It allowed trade and new technologies to enter the lives of their peoples. Yet for some strange reason more factions from the stars kept coming down to claim a piece of Calorn. Most were wiped out whereas others became mercenary enforcers. Their heads turned to see a Gantronese hover transport land at the edge of the woods carrying 11 knights who took up arms from that split island continent. Taking a closer look one of the Grussians noticed these were Draconic Knights from Retoriam. Among them were 4 Goblin Warriors, and 12 hired Knights from Koriv sent to ride them down via horseback. Whoever was driving one of those was either an idiot or drunk. Seeing 27 enemy forces set their feet on the ground the Grussians sprang into action. Not caring about the noise of their gunfire the squad massacred the platoon of Gantronese Collaborators. From their hiding spot in the woods the Grussians took out a forward patrol for the Gantronese main force they send out before every offensive. Getting rid of them allowed the rest of their force to move forward. A unit of 300 coalition troops sent from Eoth, Iznar Islands, Alagen, the VUVR, and Evusia. Some came across the border through Eoth while other coalition forces came in via blimps that hid in the clouds. The small battalion was sent in last year to keep an eye on Mulzan while the Gantronese were occupied with their conquest of the Unknown Lands. As for the Nazdar forces most were training new Grevaskii, escorting new slaves, rounding up new ones, fighting the Drasdal States, the remaining free states of Evusia, and bogged down in Vullan. 

This battalion of coalition troops poured over the hills to rendezvous with the Grussians as a team of 8 Vunnace Soldiers rushed over to join them. Just a battalion of 324 hunkered down at the border with an alien empire. An alien empire that took over most of a continent, half an island continent, and the southern part of a bordering continent. None of them really traveled much. Yet rumors of islands and other continents to the south spread from mouth to mouth. This was information people of Calorn should already know. Due to extended trade routes, new technology, mechanized transportation, and these alien transports being blended in with what they have travelling became easier. According to the peoples closest to those islands strange and scary monsters dwell there. Going with their accounts those islands were best left alone. While they set up a forward camp their own allies mentioned other creatures such as Sea Serpents, giant eels, some creature called the Scylla, Oannis fish god, long fish called Soul Arms, Plesionere, Leviathons of the deep, Ladon Hydra, Giant squids, Giant Octopus, Sea Lions, and something called Leycothan. Most of these were large sea creatures that still roam Calorn. Some of the smaller ones make for a fine meal. It is rare for the larger ones to become a meal. According to the Vestrisians the larger ones are hard to reach and kill. 

Feeling secure about their borders being protected by mountain ranges the Grussians set up their base deep in the forest that blended in well. They took a few days preparing their positions for an assault and bombardment. No enemies came this way for another day. For several more days the coalition continued to attack patrols and steal their equipment. Bodies were burned in a ceremonial manner, and the vehicles were used to transport goods and troops. This went on despite sharing borders with both invaders at their doorsteps. 

A Drow's Gamble

 Making sure she was not found was the least of her concerns. Armed with just a spear, just one female Drow crouched behind some bushes. At the slopes of the mountain ranges that separate Vorcadam, Koriv from Eoth and Grussia a lone Female Drow ran away from a fucked up master who made her their sex slave. Coming from a matriarchy deep under the mountains slavery was not new to  Karnoth Yegon. Ever since she was young this Drow succumbed to a life as a slave as punishment. Karnoth spent much of her life pleasing others in ways she despised herself over. Former bandit, scout, thief, smuggler, clothes washer, cleaner, barmaid, peddler, gambler, mugger, maid, Acrobat, juggler, wet nurse, surface scavenger, courtesan, and sex gladiator were all the professions she used be. Over the course of 165 years of her life she was forced into these lines of professions as a slave or when she had her freedom. Being passed around from master to master who wanted nothing more than to violate her, impregnate her. Sorry for typing this up. Many times she was freed only to get caught in a life of crime. As punishment Karnoth became a slave of some sorts to pay for her criminal acts. 

This was the eighth time she got free from a slave master. Using her as a competing sex challenger this one pitted her against various monsters, and opponents. This one has a dead Guard, a Slaver Overseer with a nice smile across the throat, a young catamite boy with a hand print across the face, and a female duelist Rogue lying in her own blood on the floor of his tent. Rayskull no doubt sent his entourage after her. Once they caught up to her it was not their place to kill her. It would be done through means of copulation. Forced copulation once they captured her. Looking through the brush she spotted nine of his henchmen hunting her down. Why he could not hunt down a nude Drow through smelling pussy in the air was beyond her. Two under deep minions with three or four jointed arms clad in armor were the leading hunters. One was armed with a shield and mace while the other wielded wrist blades. Neither of them looked pretty. Both had grotesque and wrinkly faces, two eyes on different parts of the face, no noses just slits. Behind them came one red haired fire battle mage from Dihard, Vorcadam, a fowl spawn from the under deep armed with a thorn whip, and an ugly bayonet knife. Three Necro Cyborgs whom she knew would grab her melons the moment they were in range of her. Part flesh, and part metal and wiring those beings came from somewhere else. Trailing behind was the yellow skinned warrior elf with a blue aura glow. He was either from the stars, or from Khet. Last of the nine was an Ilithid armed with a dagger. Karnoth would rather take a dagger to the throat than let that Ilithid near her body. 

Karnoth may have a very curvy body with all the desired features one expects to see on a whore, slut, or bar wench. She chose a different path than all those dumb asses. Karnoth saw the life of a bandit, thief, smuggler, mugger, gambler, and a scout to be more promising. During those days she saw her purses filled with coin. Watching the two under deep minions from the bush she knew it would only be a few moments before they broke off from the rest. Both licked their lips, jested over what they would do to her once they found Karnoth. She gripped her spear as the pair of mutations stopped. They urged the rest to go on while they rested. Faking their own exhaustion made her squint her eyes in anger. She knew what they were playing at. Seeing the others fall for that made her skin tighten, and teeth grind a little. Karnoth chose to strike after a full minute of the division. Leaping from the bush she charged with the spear, impaling the grotesque minion in the stomach. She kicked the one with the shield down and jumped on him. Feeling his cock harden against her Karnoth proceeded to beat the ugly face into the dirt. She took the shield and battered the face in until it was a mess of blood, bones, and teeth. 

Getting up she ran in the opposite direction she faced. Racing through the woods along the slope of the mountains. Not caring about who saw her she turned around to attack the others. It was the idea the pursuit would be put off for some time that drove her to hunt the pursuers. Clutching the spear in her hands she sprinted in the nude after the rest of the hunting party. To her surprise they also split up. Karnoth found the Ilithid and the Fire Mage arguing. She did not care about the argument or her exposure. Taking the spear she charged the Ilithid impaling the throat. Blood gushed from the throat from the impact and aftermath. It still breathed and dropped the dagger. Using the Ilithid as a shield she moved it to absorb the fire mage's fire bolts before throwing the dagger into the Fire Mage's leg. Dropping the spear and Ilithid corpse Karnoth launched after the fire mage. Punching the redhead to the ground she yanked the dagger out. She then cuts the Mage's throat and retrieves the Spear. 

"Four down, five to go." she said to herself wielding two weapons. Starting to feel the chill of the mountains she undressed the corpses and wears the robes over her exposed body. Karnoth tore both a little to make them more suitable to run around in like a tunic and pants. 

Kilscar Orvain Islands

 Would it be possible for them to lose this upcoming engagement? Yes it would be possible. On the mainland the Vestrisians pressed the advance on their Gantron brethren. Whoever defeated their new mercenaries on the island occupied by the Kurneon Prime had some advanced technology in terms of weaponry, and vehicles. All his superiors would blame him for this defeat. Even though these Kurneons were mercenaries they still fought for the Imperial Gantronese. His rank was a Colonel who answered to a High Colonel. Above High Colonel were General, Grand General, General-Daimyo, Shogun General, and Shogun (Warlord). These seven higher ranks of the Gantronese were those of authority who had to answer to the main council. For his rank, Dahdon Konu was to answer to High Colonel Ashin Zugeren. Konu had command of the 674 Gantronese soldiers on this island and partial command of the 1,756 Kurneons. Looking at the list of the casualties sustained he noticed these mercenaries were worms, Orcs, Golems, brutes, Goblins, Tessars, reptilians or lizardmen, trolls, monsters, demons, spawn, spider creatures, and a variety of different humanoids gathered in this battalion of former Order of the Beast. 

Looking at the reports he was surprised that a smaller force of 208 managed to take out a large battalion that was almost a brigade size. For the Gantronese this turned into a crippling defeat. The following few days the Vestrisians pushed further into Kilscar Orvain outskirts. High Colonel Zugeren warned Konu to retake the island asap. He was coming in with a force of 2,028 Gantronese troopers, and collaborators. Along with this brigade he is bringing some firepower. A team of 6 tanks, 5 artillery pieces, and 4 armed boats. One of their patrols and spies, a sentient snake that he'd rather cut up and eat or discard. Over a week passed by since this new force of fighters defeated the Kurneons. Now he is hearing reports of reinforcements coming in for them. A battalions worth of Kilscar Orvain militia, gunslingers, bowmen, Uxane fighters, fighters, and warriors from Magesar. This battalion of 367 included rebels from the north, and soldiers of Oceanrest Var. Just 50 warriors from Oramatra tribal lands arrive to help. Only 64 Uxane Renegades from other tribes come to bolster the defenses up to 689 troops. From what the snake told him more were coming to help. Kuno knew the Vestrisians were likely still licking wounds and waiting for the right time to counterattack outside Kilscar Orvain. These defenders were healing their own wounds as much as possible while setting up defenses. Whoever those Kurneon mercenaries were they did not bother with defenses. That explained why they fell so quickly to such a small force. 

Unaware of when Zugeren would arrive with reinforcements Kuno still kept sending spies four of whom never returned. That sentient snake abandoned them for something else. He had to rely on an outcast Troglodyte-Lizard hybrid who came back six days later to report these defenders now had Vestrisian reinforcements. One small battalion of 267 Vestrisian Marines, and Infantry sent to help the defenders. A final unit came to aid increase the defenses. Finally revealing themselves, a small force of 114 Dark Elves came only to kill Gantronese forces. He recalled a report of a Gantronese High Colonel giving chase to the Dark Elves in the mountains past the cities of Rednight Fangsir. He lost approximately 1,083 soldiers to these guerrillas in those mountains, and eventually his head. That was well before this conflict with the Vestrisians began. Another hunted them down into the jungles losing almost double what the other lost. Forced to give up that chase they focused efforts on conquering the Unknown Lands while dealing with border attacks from three free states, East Koriv, Eoth, and Grussia. 

Looking at 1,070 defenders for this island Kuno urged High Colonel Zugeren to get reinforcements and some bombers to strike at them. Their combined force of 2,754 were still likely to fail in this attempted assault. Zegeren silenced him that very morning. Through Zugeren's eyes it was time they struck back at the Vestrisians and take out these gathered resistance fighters. Just when he though the High Colonel was going to cut his head off the officer relented. Allowing a few more days of planning and a force of 697 Gantronese troops and loyalists rushed to aid them in reclaiming this island. Under the command of a young Colonel this battalion blindly rushed in via ocean bound transports with 56 Vehicles, one artillery piece and one Zeykos aircraft. This forced High Colonel Zugeren, and Colonel Kuno to launch their attack from the south while this Colonel attacked from the west coast. Some 1,070 defenders met an invasion force of  3,451 Gantronese. Expecting no other Gantronese forces to come to their aid they went forward with the invasion. After the first day of the invasion two more battalions joined them, 1,023 Gantronese, and 1,000 loyal Aquanne Hitto. Some report from the south entailed the Aquanne Hitto starting to betray their empire. Now attacking with a full brigade of 5,000 Kuno, and Zugeren sat in the command tent waiting for the end of this battle. 

For three days they received reports from the battle with some units successfully taking ground, and other units getting wiped out. A stalemate ensued between these forces on the Kurneon Island it's new name. It lasted for a few more days. Kuno, and Zuegeren received an extra brigade of 1,434 troops, 5 tanks, 8 AA tanks, and 3 Zeykos air fighters. Due to Zugeren's higher rank he did come with a total of 43 Oni bodyguards. On the ninth day they received word that Kilscar Orvain signed a pact to be neutral in this conflict. It was not clear if they were going to claim any territory yet. This was the second time they lost Kilscar Orvain. Through manipulation they managed to seize Kilscar Orvain again, but only for a few months. Forces on Kurneon Island were being reduced on both sides whether the soldier became KIA, MIA, or wounded casualty. Others became POW's, something the Gantronese found distasteful. What became unhelpful was the Vestrisian Fleet destroying their fleet. 

Koriv and the Gantronese

 Koriv was his home even if he did not believe it to be after what happened. After the Nazdar and their alien friends landed all over much of Jurnis and Aleon. Rumors spread they conquered most of Estoras. As the Nazdar swept across the continents facing some resistance another race came in. The Gantronese landed on their homelands. Whoever these Gantronese were they came in a decade after the Nazdar. From the west the Gantronese came in the name of their hierarchy or some sorts. To the south Vorcadam, Gora-Via became vassals. Koriv's royal family believed the Gantronese would annex them into their empire. Walking along the border that divided Koriv he witnessed over 100 soldiers fighting along the border. His royal encampment lay some distance away behind a hill. That would not hide him for very long. On the other side he spotted 100 Gantronese troopers exchanging fire with the 100 Koriv soldiers aiming to keep East Koriv independent. Along the border he spotted other groups of Korivans, and Gantronese fighting. 

With him marched a troop of 4 Dragons, and 20 warriors keeping him safe. He did not doubt their bravery just doubted they would survive the Gantronese attack. Gunshots rang through the air as the civil war between the Korivans sparked. Another group of 50 Korivans fought on the border just half a mile away. Close by he spotted a star transport landing. No more than 200 Gantronese pour out onto the field to reinforce the Korivans already fighting for them. Nearby 26 Korivans fought in the sands of a large lake just a mile away. Further down he could see 44 soldiers locked in the civil war that began over Korivan independence. Due to the rivalry between the Nazdar and the Gantronese not many Gantronese were sent over. He smirked at the Gantronese attempted to sweep across the other continent of Aleon claiming lands such as Mulzan, Rhes Tarim, Hadoras, and Zekmar. Turning around the Vire-Craine spotted a Koriv tower behind a range of green hills. Taking his bodyguards, and protection he left the growing civil war along the northwestern border. One would label it was the northern border if they looked at a drawn map. 

Focusing entirely on the tower this Vire-Craine grew oblivious to the shooting in the background. Behind him he heard his own Korivans fire shots from hidden spots along the hills, and brush. He could have sworn he passed no more than 20 sniper positions in the brush. Their rifles cracked the air taking down an enemy or forcing the unit down. Knowing full well the Gantronese did not come with heavier firepower the Vire-Craine snaked through the foothills to the tower. He could still hear gunshots behind them. Blocking them out he kept his gaze on the tower that was presumed abandoned according to peasants of this area. At the base of this tower that still stood at six stories high he found a pirate who ran inside the tower. The pirate saw them coming and made a blind run for it. Behind this old tower an airship rested on the flat earth. By the airship were three other pirates camped out around a fire. The Vire-Craine asked if these pirates would like to join the fight against the Gantronese invaders. As much as he hated and despised bandits, outlaws, and thieves he felt there was no other choice than to befriend them for a cause. It would become a cause against the invaders. 

Off Kilscar Orvain

 "With the Vestrisians pushing towards our location now it is a good time to strike." Storm Warrior Carnas Cularis of Oceanrest Var insisted looking over the map of the southern parts of Aleon. 

"Carnas there are only seventeen of us." Orbik the Goblin Mage From Borvados pointed out. 

Orbik was right about the size of their force. Three amphibian mercenaries, Merfolk Warrior from Oceanrest Var, two Grussian Frost Raiders, stealthy Draconic Battlefield assassin did not pose much of a threat to the might of the Gantronese forces in the Unknown Lands. Adding the Gnome Goblin Tinnastra and her alien troop still did not give enough forces to attack. She brought a Cycloptic fighter from Tsubibe Pajibe as a bodyguard. She was one of the arcane users gathering in force. Thanks to the invaders other races and species arrived on Calorn. Tinnastra recruited a Boar Pigloid mercenary, sea warrior, creepy insectoid warrior, some pink being with a strange body mass and tentacles, a winged crusader from Syrianos mountains, and a two headed wolf experiment given to her after a duel. She came up to the table looking peeved. 

"Are you two going to keep arguing or are we going to get a move on?" Tinnastra snapped at the two leaders of a small band of mercenaries, and warriors. 

"We don't even have a big army!" Orbik snapped back at the Gnome-Goblin who scowled at him. 

"Actually more just rallied outside our little hide out. About 86 hopeful volunteers and mercenaries are waiting to sign up." The merfolk warrior entered the room with a bit of news. He looked more human except for the light blue paint and tattoos. Even though he was from Oceanrest Var he refused to wear the traditional garb due to his status as outcast or former outlaw of some sort. 

"Well looks like we may have the makings of an army." Tinnastra said with a crooked grin. 

"Some of the mercenaries have different technology not so different than the invaders. Just come outside and look for yourselves." 

All three leaders followed the merfolk warrior who wore scaled armor that made him look more like a fish at the lower half. Just outside the hide out were the ones they recruited, and the 86 newcomers. Among them stood 32 similar looking human figures in blue and green armor, 6 droid automatons, and an orange cyborg knight. Behind the whole lot they could see five alien vehicles, a ship to transport cargo, an air speeder, two tank walkers, and a speeder bike. Considering pilots that added 7 more to the alien volunteers. For the native Calornese they saw 47 rallied to fight for them. A lone crusader, elf warlock, female forsythan, Coldhair barbarian, longbow ranger, dwarf ranger, 4 Magesar Rogues, Elf Blade Ranger from the isles, Dwarf Adventurer, young barbarian, elf rogue outlaw, 4 Kilscar Orvain monks, 2 Orange Knights, Spearman, 6 Goblin-hybrid renegades, a half elf bard female, pair of bone cultists, renegade elf wizard, reptilian gunslinger from the west. Scanning the group, they also spotted a half Orc barbarian outcast, an Orc axe fighter, hooded mage, six Kilscar Orvain warriors shamed for life that tore at Carnas' heart. There was also a young ninja warrior too young for his liking. A long blade Ranger, some crafty looking rogue, a female archer, a former paladin initiate, and the infamous pirate Barnabus Frostier. 

Taking these volunteers and mercenaries in out their force at 110. It appeared a sizable company, but would still require more. He witnessed the Vestrisians and the Gantronese fight each other at Oceanrest Var. Although the Vestrisian proved victorious the Gantronese had plenty to spare. Accepting what they have the trio of leaders began a guerrilla warfare against the Gantronese. For a whole month they harassed troop convoys, picked off patrols, wiped out outposts. Calculating the number of Gantronese they killed in various attacks and raids Orbik put the number of dead invaders at 834. Losing no one during this operation proved fortunate. Along with nearly a thousand guns and helmets from the enemy they received information about a threat to Kilscar Orvain. Just off the coast a force of other invaders resided on one of the islands. Since the year 1842 of the modernized era one island lay under occupation of 525 alien invaders known as Kurneon Prime of some Order of the Beast. Not much was known about either name except the Order of the Beast often fight for the Nazdar invaders. Due to the alliance between the invader's factions like this one act as enforcers, or exterminators. If the Gantronese were to lose Kilscar Orvain this faction would launch a massacre of any city-state. On the other island was a garrison of 674 Gantronese soldiers keeping them in check. 

"Going after this island should secure the flanks of the Vestrisians." Cunaris ascertained as he put a finger on a map. He was certain the Vestrisians would be outflanked from the sea. Even if the city-state of Kilscar Orvain had miles of marshland preventing a proper landing smaller craft could still get through. 

"Make sure you let the Vestrisians know and the Kilscar Orvain. The Vestrisians may have allies, and a powerful fleet and the Kilscar Orvain are independent. However the Gantronese, Nazdar, other invaders here, and other factions could undermine that. For Kilscar Orvain, they are open targets. We should wait for the Vestrisians to come closer." Tinnastra chastised him with the reminder. Over the course of this month they gained more volunteers most of whom died in operations. Many of them were young fools who blindly charged at the enemy from their positions. Now commanding a force of 208 the trio were at odds with one another. The only thing keeping them together was the enemy presence here. Another month of operations in the year 844 produced helpful results. Once the Vestrisians finally Kilscar Orvain's borders their own little company of fighters were found by mistake. Neither side exchanged fire and the Vestrisians took their information like a grateful prisoner being released. 

Cunaris, Orbik, and Tinnastra were encouraged by the Vestrisians to seize that island. Seeing the aliens sort of scared the Vestrisians who eyed them with suspicion. Cunaris and the others forgot the commander's name. Being handed some craft to transport troops became helpful. Within a week they set off in force. Giving witness to a battle at sea and air their army pressed forward to the occupied islands. It was clear the Vestrisians needed to rest and they knew the region better. Heading to the islands created a tense atmosphere around them that could suffocate someone. With just 208 they landed on the island. At full speed, and precision their company hit the occupying invaders hard. Catching these invaders off guard made their day. With some extra firepower, the two walker tanks, and aircraft their forces ripped the larger force apart. Over the course of a full hour they exhausted themselves. All they did was destroy the occupying force, found there were not 525, but 1,756 various monsters, aliens, and humanoids. Cunaris and Orbik had to lead the charge while their Gnome Goblin Tinnastra left for the Tante Republics. Regrouping after a successful assault on the invaders was the best option. However the second island of 674 Gantronese Soldiers were stationed there. 

Mercenaries and Acolytes

"Here they are, Mr. Dippelboager, and his client friend. I hoped the girls pleased you and entertained well enough." Ritta's voice carried over from the second hallway to the left. 

Dippelboager got up encouraging Gredaro to do the same. He looked eager to get out of this Bawdy House. Dippelboager did his best to put on a smile that did not turn out so well. It looked more crooked, and nervous. All Ritta did was ask the eight mercenaries to pay for their time at the Queen's Perfect Escape. Ten patrons left the Bawdy House. Eight came there for pleasure, and two only came to do business. As they exited fourteen more patrons entered. He did not get a good look at them. At a glance he could tell some were young stock brokers, Assistant Traders, Aristocrat, and a newly anointed Knight. Dippelboager rushed them outside toward the shipyard, and wharf. Passing an Old Watch tower, a gunsmith workshop, a cannon tower, parts of a wall they stopped at an old Keep for troops and archers. Gredaro spotted a former assassin's guild that was now a retail store. 

"What's this all about sir Dippelboager or are you lord now? Who is this spiffed up sap?" One of the mercenaries questioned him showing the most serious expression with their arms crossed. All eight of these mercenaries, four males, four females, Elemani, Half-Elf, Half-Orc, and Estati crossed their arms. Gredaro thought they were about to assault them. Dippelboager did just drag them out of a relaxing, and good time with the ladies of Queen's Perfect Escape. Gredaro the Arcane Wizard prepared a small fire ball in a fist. 

The atmosphere grew tense with the same sincere faces on the mercenaries. For a few moments some started to smirk and lose it. One of the largest ones, a half Orc spread his arms open for a hug. They wrapped them around Dippelboager who expected to get jumped. The whole lot of them burst into laughter. Instead of anger their faces transformed into happy teasers. 

"Good to see you again Jakob buddy!" the half Orc bellowed with joy. With big arms he gave Jakob a squeeze. 

"You too Terkag, you too." Dippelboager said in a voice that was getting the air squeezed out of his lungs. 

"Why have you come looking for us?" Terkag asked, dropping him to his feet. 

"Yeah there are no other wars going on. Other than the the big one up in Vestrisia and the larger continents." One of the Estati interjected. 

"To recruit you lot. As you are unaware Mr. Gredaro, a Wizard has come here seeking help. Gredaro, Gredaro why is your hand smoking?" Dippelboager pointed out to them. He turned to Gredaro and noticed the Wizard's hand emitting smoke through the finger crevices. 

Gredaro backed off creating a fire ball relaxing a bit. He did not splash water on his hand. Just because a fire was out did not mean the smoke was gone. Realizing he was caught he searched his pockets for a flask or vial of water he kept on him. Eight mercs, and Middle Man watched him bewildered. 

"Hold on is this a fire mage?" one of the half elves asked looking wary. Each one backed away like his hand was going to explode. 

"No no Gredaro is more of an arcane Wizard. Terkag, Gorne, Abboss, Erika Mikkan Brev Mikkan, Cryss, Jen, Tee. What weapons do you have between the eight of you?" Dippelboager replied to them. He left Gredaro alone about the smoke coming from his hand. Forced to shake his hand as if he was waving he got some of the wisps away. Each one of them wore a Malviethene military flag, and a mercenary arm band. To separate themselves from the actual military they wore khaki pants, plaid shirts of green, dirty boots, and a chain link necklace holding a fang.  

"Between the eight of us Jakob we got 15 weapons. Let's see a Forkeen Bolt Action Rifle, auto pistol, 8 round Victor 1 pistol, 2 katanas, falchion-cutlass mix, great pole ax, scimitar, short blade, exotic spear, and forked dagger. So yeah that's all." Jen replied a dark haired Elemani female with a long ponytail-braid. 

"Does five extra guns sound beneficial?" Dippelboager offered to the mercenaries. "Along with the ammunition to each gun." 

"Dippelboager, you got yourself and your friend eight mercenaries. Who are we fighting?" Terkag replied stretching out a hand to them. Both Wizard and Middle Man shook the mercenaries' hands. Gredaro could feel some softness. Yet he could tell they trained as best they could during peace times. 

"Meet us in a few days by the ancient watch tower on Abe's street. There should be a nice establishment to meet discretely. Some other groups are itching for a fight over some turf. So it would be great to get out of Avirin City for at least a year." Terkag informed him and the Wizard. Gredaro felt a sense of doubt grow inside his innards then realized these mercenaries would be tagging along. 

"We will see you in four days." You known the number to my office, or do you have a phone close to you?" Jakob noted to them. 

"Do we have a phone? Yes we do. Our home is that former Chapter House to a forgotten order. It is just off the campus of Weelah's University. Some old frat house, but now our home." Terkag finished and left the two of them for the north east. His mercenaries followed at his heels. 

"That makes eight. Who else did you have in mind? Besides Pirates." Gredaro criticized his choice of hired hands. 

"A crew of 43 pirates are at a Tavern by the Wharf We should not meet them yet, perhaps nightfall. Have you eaten lunch?" Dippelboager appeared pleased with this deal. He seemed to have forgotten Gredaro's issue with pirates or just ignored it. 

"No, not yet. Do you have five guns to hand them as payment? Remember, you are doing this for me." Gredaro reminded the connector Middle Man. 

"Let's head for a nice sit in on a street not far from my office." Dippelboager proposed to the Wizard who had to dig his hand into the sand. In early winter the ground grew cold. A new year began once spring started. In accordance to the calendars it is the year 1844 of the modernized era. Here in the southern islands the sands cooled along with the chill air. According to scientists, explorers, and geographers Calorn was indeed a sphere shaped planet. His hand hit something beneath the sands. Wrapping his fingers around it he pulled it up. Out of the sand the Wizard found a figurine made from jade in the form of a woman. Pocketing the Jade figurine he followed Dippelboager back to the Commerce Center. 

Returning to the street of the Commerce Center they passed it. Gredaro checked their surroundings acknowledging the old Conservatorium he spotted a ring on the ground. Not caring about where it had been he went for it. As he picked up this discorded or lost ring he saw a sapphire on it. Seeing it had value Gredaro pocketed this sapphire ring. Lunch was on Dippelboager who ordered for both of them. Gredaro the Wizard was a guest and a client. Two well roasted giant armodillae-carideae. Sitting at an outside restaurant called "Little Minni's" he brought out what he found. 

"I know children play this finders keepers, but do they store it away or lose it?" Gredaro presented his finds to Middle Man. Dippelboager sipped his beverage of Headless Soda. Gredaro was given wine to go along with his meal. Pushing his finished meal to the right side of the table Gredaro set the ring and figurine he found by chance. 

"I am no expert on either of these. However you could pay the mercenaries something." Dippelboager suggested to him. 

"Has anyone attacked you over the sverxing items? No, then let's see how much each is worth in Tante currency, Sea Turtles." Dippelboager pulled out a thin leather notebook. Setting it on the table he flipped through it. For the Jade they would get 32,000 in Sea Turtles. Gredaro's new Sapphire ring's worth came at 20,000 Sea Turtles. Dippelboager brought out a few of the coins to show him. Gredaro observed the coins that came in Silver, Nickel, Bronze, and Gold. One one side was a marine turtle while on the other rested the face of a founder. Around the figure's head read the words Tante Republic. 

"Other than the Commerce Center where cane we exchange or pawn these for coin? Yet I really should be asking where can we sell these." Gredaro asked not bothering to mention the currency's name. Dippelboager was about to speak when glasses, and plates shattered on the hard surface. Several women screamed and a lot of movement came after. 

"Please I beg you Lord Zantos this establishment means not a single offense to you. As for you Master Wizard Ofaris we will humbly grant you the best table next time." a very shaken voice addressed to some figures behind them. 

Gredaro looked over Dippelboager's head to see a pair of wizards causing trouble. A traditionally dressed wizard without that stupid hat, and a more modern day mob dressed one held the restaurant hostage. Ofaris the traditional one in dark green robes held out an enchanted and corrupted musket ramrod. Zantos wielded a steel raven's beak while using destructive magic that destroys objects. As an arcane wizard Gredaro had certain enemies that rivaled his Order. Knowing this people would face death he got up and shot several fireballs at Zantos and Ofaris. Neither of them saw the fire balls come at them. Gredaro threw seven fireballs at these Prophet's Acolytes of Jurnis, one rival arcane faction. Both Acolytes fried up in the barrage of flames he threw at them. He grabbed the glass of water on Dippelboager's side and splashed the water on his hands. As though no one was watching he went up to the bodies. He checked the carcasses to find the amulet of the Jurnes Prophet. Ripping both off the corpses he wrapped them up in a handkerchief that was in his breast pocket. 

"Thank you fire wizard. Your meal is on the house, as well as that Connector with you!" a manager on his right thanked him. 

"How long have these two been here?" Gredaro asked the manager. All they did was hold up two fingers mouthing the words 'two years'. Behind the manager he spotted the other waiters, staff, and customers. This manager wore a blue shirt and long pants very similar to the waiters. They wore a black ascot, while the rest wore bow ties. Although this was an outdoor restaurant this establishment had a small indoor seating area. Other customers and staff could be seen in the large glass wall sized window. 

Every customer and staff member approached his table as he sat down. One by one they gave their gratitude and rewarded him for taking care of the Acolytes. Sixteen of these customers rewarded him with bags of coins, and jewels. Gathering these up would require some extra hands if he did not know any levitation spells. Rather than go back to Dippelboager's right away they went straight for Perdi's place. At the Duches' villa he was greeted by his family. Assistant Mage Fytbak Magris, his pupil Amerius, the dark elf maid Icude Vozat, and Pasior hugged him like a father. Fytbak worked tirelessly on a few experiments while they resided at Perdi's. Amerius made a full recovery and was now practicing minor 3rd level spells using his hands. Icude-Vazot managed to keep their current residence clean and organized. Gredaro treated her more like a daughter ever since she was handed to him as a trophy. He was urged to adopt her by a former lover. Some old dark mage-necromancer named Gol Ameron from Fangrir dueled him and lost. In any sort of duel the winner takes all or the loser keeps half his possessions if they survived. Pasior spent most of the time learning the runes with help from a scholar among Perdi's troop of servants. Only Icude wore a more modern style clothing of the era. The rest of them wore different darker colored robes like dark red, dark blue, and maroon. 

As he put away the rewards for safe keeping he was surprised by his eight colleagues who found him. Tyen the Aqua Mage in his light blue cloak over a pretty set of turquoise clothing came with his Estati, and Elemani bodyguards, and 6 strange humanoid retainers from Gora Via. Odolin of Oracles, Runes in a more adventurer's attire came with 53 Blood Fighter Mercenaries he hired from Tante's third island. Ishann the Wiccan and Mystic arrived in her dark green long skirt, sleeveless black shirt. She did wear the more modernized boots one found on a pirate. From Tantos island she managed to hire 40 stealth warriors. Egorse the manipulating charmer arrived in his finest ware of light gray suit, black shoes, and silver chain. He managed to get 9 soldiers on leave, and 7 deadly sharpshooters as mercenaries. Gredaro could tell he did his best to inspire, and draw them in. As handsome and tall as he was the Charmer still had trouble with some crowds. Madox Azzin the Wizard of Storms pretty much came in looking like a pirate without the pistols and cutlass. He rallied 119 yellow-gray mist goblins, 202 blue troopers of Kilscar Orvain before getting executed. As for his favorite, Eforahim the flame-inferno wizard, a traditional red and orange robes covered him. Despite his appearance as a villain in some opera Eforahim had a good heart. He came with just 19 Auxiliaries from Evusia. Veleus the Vorpalist Enchanter came with just his four automaton creations, and his personal blue haired elf Zhenrai Blade Outcast. Apon Janori arrived in his Vestrisian style clothing with 3 Orcs, 3 Dwarfs, and 2 human hybrids seeking to avoid the draft. Accompanying them was another person in a more modern style clothing under a trench coat. Apannos the Sorcerer came to this island with 30 modernized gunslingers for hire. He had word about 127 other wizards, mages, witches, and sorcerers flocking to the neutral islands seeking refuge and to raise an army of their own. Even though the VUVR and their allies pushed against the invaders, these arcane users sought to wage their own war on the invaders. A rumor of another mage already began to fight the Gantronese with their own army. 

Gredaro's Middle Man

Waiting for an hour was not the most favored activities. The Wizard was very appreciative of getting a meeting with someone who could help. At least Malvieth was willing to speak with him and hear his plight. Even if it was not a Senator or higher official. If he had to speak to the Vestrisians he would either be forced to live in Borvados and wait out the war or talk to a political official who would blow him off. He would likely get an audience, but would be forced to contend with the Forsythan brothers, the Greymirs. Speaking with them would take forever and the war would be over by the time he saw his home again. Gredaro never saw eye to eye with their race over how to deal with certain ancient monsters that still lingered during this modernizing era. Sitting alone in the hall he left his "family" under the care of a Malviethene Elf sorceress who was less unbearable than Ubelle. Gredaro could handle Duchess Kali Perdi, but her voluptuousness was too much for him. All her motherly ways and treating everyone with love went overboard. He knew elves to be lean, fit, and healthy. Plenty were good parents and guardians. Never in his life did he meet one so arousing, round, and curvy like Perdi. 

In his finest attire he sat in a comfy armchair in hallway laden with a green baseboard and white wall. This was unusual for an office of a Middle Man known as Connector Dippelboager. Most were white or wood brown. Looking down the hall he expected his fellow wizards and mages to show up. All eight of them responded while he resided in Ubelle's place agreeing to meet him on Malvieth. Each one knew other wizards, but hardly had enough guards between them to make an army. That was why they went to these neutral nations. Yes these nations were neutral, which allowed them to gain profits through trade, banking, law, diplomacy, coffee, fisheries, weaving and artisan work. Ivodra, Malvieth, Rovantia, and the other five members of the Tante Republic agreed to see them. It took months as it was already the year 1844 and the Gantronese were losing ground in the Unknown Lands. 

"Mr. Dippelboager will see you now Mr. Gredaro." a voice from his left shot towards him. 

Standing up Gredaro turned left. At the door of this Dippelboager's suite-office a black haired elf-hybrid with a hint of Borvadosi, and Vorcadam human leaned out with her hand on the door knob. Her hair was pulled up in an oriental knob fashion. In a tan dress suit with the long skirt the secretary looked ready to present a project to the office meeting. Her half frame glasses made her more like a teacher. She did not smile nor did she show any signs of disgust or distaste for anyone. Thin eyebrows and the pointy ears gave off a different emotion. 

Gredaro felt out of date, an antique in his fine white shirt under a silver-gray waist coat. An ascot of blue, black shoes, beard braces, and his hair tied in a loose pony tail added more to his appearance. Glad that he left his robe and cape at the villa Perdi lent him, Gredaro entered a heated suite. Painted and modeled different from the rest of the building's interior this one appeared like a corridor within the wall. To the right lay a hallway leading to four other rooms. Two said restrooms, and the others appeared to be living quarters. Along the hall lay a green rug. The corridor itself was painted a more light brown much like a tan wood. This secretary led him to a fifth door on their left squeezed against the end of the hall. Opening the door she exposed the Connector's office. Decorated with various weapons, and shields on the walls this office also had a few cannons. Some were made into tall lamps. On the left side of the room was a line of shelves full of books. The carpet that took up most of the square foot came from the other side of the world. he spotted a few helmets that did not belong to any known civilization on Calorn. Dippelboager sat in a large brown chair at his desk. For a desk he had a tower shield supported by two mortars. Next to him rested a large globe of Calorn on his right. 

Dippelboager himself looked out of place here. A long nose, slick back light blue hair, big goblin like ears, two scars on the side of his face. One earring on a single ear. His beige skin made him more human. Dippelboager's face looked small with a big mouth that still looked descent to look at. Gredaro could not tell what he was wearing because of all the odds and ends all over his desk. 

"Mr. Dippelboager?" Gredaro spoke catching the man's attention. The male looked up from his current task of putting something together. He put that little project away. 

"Ah Mr. Gredaro come on in, come in!" Dippelboager welcomed him inside. He got out of his chair to reveal he wore a dark red suit with a black spot on his ascot tie. On his feet were some aristocratic looking footwear. Dippelboager stood at four feet tall. He walked over to close the door to the office room and the suite. 

"Please sit down Mr. Gredaro. I read about your problem in a letter by Perdi. One sorceress that would conquer this world if she were to expose herself inappropriately. That does hit me hard in the heart to know about homes being taken or people being run out of them. You are not alone I hear." Dippelboager led Gredaro to his desk that had three other seats facing his chair. The secretary walked around the desk to check some documents behind it. She then went to her corner of the suite sized office. Her own desk sat in the left corner next to the book shelves. She immediately sat down to adjust her typewriter. 

"Tell me Mr. Gredaro where did you reside when the Gantronese invaded?" Dippelboager asked the Wizard who sat in the chair opposite him. 

"Outside Oramatra in the boundaries of her outskirts." He replied feeling uncomfortable about telling anyone his real origins. Oramtra was more recent and sounded less complicated to explain. 

"Back in 1841 of the modernizing era the Vestrisian Union launched their offensive, which was really an invasion of Gantronese held territory in the Unknown Lands. This current war did start with the attacks on illegal temples set up to abduct all females possessing many talents. Did you know that?" Dippelboager pointed out to the wizard who hardly got much news except what the Oramatrans, and his colleagues gave out. 

"What did that have to do with the Nazdar and the Gantronese?" He asked, wondering why this war spread. It should have just involved the Vullanese and her allies vs this VUVR according to him. From what he heard about his Union the war would have ended in a few years. 

"Alliances Mrs. Gredaro, alliances. All over this half of Calorn there are alliances in the form of three camps. All the free states and nations are either allied with the VUVR, the Nazdar, or the neutral states. I cannot give a full number, but you will find an easier time recruiting from neutral countries. Everyone is either neutral or involved in this conflict. All the nations involved have marshaled their citizens for war. It also involved pirates being hired as privateers." Dippelboager explained giving him an answer. 

"Pirates? Pirates? Who in their blasted mind hired pirates to fight this war?" Gredaro blurted in disbelief molded with confusion. Pirates were not the most favored beings on the ocean. 

"The VUVR of course. According to a colleague of mine in Zegrav no more than 70, 000 pirates have been hired to fight the Gantronese fleet. Those Vestrisian boys and girls gave them a good hammering in Dorntalla straight, Lybresan, Borvados sea, the Iperantosi Isles, and at Ruhonthra. Its all in the news papers. Yet the Gantronese fleet still poses a threat with a massive fleet. Thanks to the competitive land grab with Nazdar most ships or space ships were demolished, sunk, defeated, grounded, and no use in the air." He went on about the battles and skirmishes that leaked into the newspapers of Alagen, Ruhonthra, and Lybresan. Dippelboager also added a bit where the Gantronese were forced to craft floating vessels out of the damaged ships. 

"So who can we recruit to seize back some lands, meaning my eight colleagues and I?" Gredaro asked him, hoping one of them would enter the hallway at any moment. With the carpet in the hallway it would be hard to hear footsteps coming. 

"From Evusia." Dippelboager replied. 

"The Evusians? That ancient empire still holding itself together. Are they even willing to fight this war or are they still fighting traitors, repelling insurgencies and putting down rebellions?" Gredaro doubted the Evusian Empire would be willing to lend a single soldier, especially after the Redrin Rebellion. 

"Some fleets and a limited number of soldiers are allowed to, no, permitted to fight. Granted they station soldiers with the Vestrisians. Ever since the Meze conflict, and the Zegrav war Evusia is under a treaty it signed 20 years ago. However it can offer units as mercenaries or private security or marshal small units of battalions to fight. They are also allowed to send small fleets of ships to fight as well. That is they send it against a common enemy." Dippelboager pointed out. 

"Do they have the means?" Gredaro asked uncertain the Evusians would be willing to break a treaty for a few wizards and mages seeking to restore property. 

"Despite the continued use of melee weapons and such, Calorn's technology rapidly evolved. So expect an entire fleet or squadron of fighter pilots for hire." Dippelboager looked at him then at the an envelope stand on Gredaro's right. 

"If we must travel let it be later. I do not believe the Vestrisians will destroy my home. Are the Evusians allowed to use their military at all?" Gredaro thought he go ahead and ask about this treaty's limits. He insisted on staying put as he was glad to receive a few months of idleness. Compared to most wizards he liked being in one place for a long time. 

"Yes the Evusians are allowed when their home turf comes under attack. Your friends sound like they are too busy to meet us here. Do you supposed they are running late?" Dippelboager asked sounding unsure if Gredaro had anyone else coming. It made Gredaro wish he had them meet at Perdi's first. 

"Our main goal was to stay hidden, work under incognito for some time while gaining support. I know the Vestrisians have pushed farther, but I fear they may wake something else." Gredaro fessed up. Dippelboager paused for a moment. Linking his hands together he tapped his index fingers repeatedly. He looked puzzled while trying to figure something out in his head. The Middle Man got up and went over to the window. 

"Would you rather seek out mercenaries for yourself or could I give you some recommendations to consider?" Dippelboager offered him. 

"Who would you suggest?" Gredaro asked curious about his recommendations. 

"Are you representing Oramatra or yourself?" He asked looking over his shoulder. 

"My own order of wizards not the Oramatran nobility." Gredaro responded. 

"Come to the window Mr. Gredaro." Dippelboager said commanding him. 

Gredaro hesitated for a moment then got up. He glanced at a telephone coated in bronze on the desk. As he made his way past the desk made from a shield and mortars he saw another desk attached to it. Going over to the Middle Man's left side Gredaro looked out the window with Dippelboager. His suite office overlooked a part of the city that lay next to the wharf and waterfront of Avirin City. 

"Do you see that three story tavern in the street corner that leads into that wharf?" He asked Gredaro pointing at a Commercial port flanked by others. Gredaro scanned the coast spotting another settlement nearby with its own fishery, and trading port. His eyes found the tavern by the wharf. 

"Yes I do see it. The green tavern next to the complex of apartments that have a guild house and a blacksmith near a tanners shop. It is near three columns of buildings along the ports." Gredaro answered being half honest. He glanced at all the other blocks of buildings between them and the sea. Columns, and rows of structures separated by streets, paths, and alleyways stretched across 17 miles along Malvieth Island's coast. Just 3.5 miles lay between them and the coast. Avirin City was at least 6-7 miles wide. 

"On the same street?" Dippelboager asked him testing what he saw. The Connector knew this city better than he did. 

"Yes." Gredaro replied spotting some buildings that looked very similar in some other columns of buildings along the wharf, main ports and the harbor. Looking at the man he received a nod. Feeling happy he got a question right Gredaro scanned the whole city before them. All the ports, shipyard, wharfs, waterside, and harbor could be seen with a thick wall of buildings blocking parts of each. 

"Are you willing to walk with me after I make a few calls? By the shipyard is a Bawdyhouse and a mix of bars, inns, and brothels closely nit like a complex. There are other shops, and craftsman along with a market in that district of the city." Dippelboager asked him while giving more detail of the port city. 

"Very well then. I do not have anything else to do than to pounce on my pupil's head." He replied making Dippelboager chuckle a little. 

"Good, Mahlynn Patris honey could you call the other Wizards' Inns, and Hotels to check where they are?" Dippelboager asked the Secretary. She answered leaving the type writer alone. Her hand reached for her own rotary phone. She was ahead of him in terms of calling. Dippelboager did not wait for her to finish. He went ahead on dialing the numbers of the Tavern and the Bawdyhouse. Each call he made was not made for alcohol or for a companion. To one he asked for a mercenary group. The other he asked if the pirates were sober enough. Gredaro wanted to laugh, but couldn't. He refrained, because he recalled how violently dangerous pirates could be while drunk. When he hung up he went to a side door with a coat rack next to it. The door read living quarters meaning he lived in this suite at times. 

All Dippelboager did was check to see if it was locked before leaving the office with Gredaro. He said his goodbye to his secretary saying he and Gredaro would be back sooner or later in the day. Upon leaving Dippelboager's Office Gredaro stepped to the side and red the name on the office door. JAKOB L. DIPPELBOAGER LICENSED MIDDLE MAN, AGENT, AND LOANSHARK. Dippelboager closed the door to his office. 

"I hope she has that .46 Steel revolver, and LF 84 pistol." Dippelboager said to himself. He checked his suit jacket revealing a machine pistol nestled in its holster. Checking the other side he revealed a revolver next to a dagger. 

"The Onyx revolver, better than the WR4 also Warmonger Revolver 4, and more powerful than the Raging Handgun MK III. As good as machine pistols have become over the years they still jam up. Yet this Evusian 7 round Snake Fang 8mm pistol proves more effective. I could spare one of them for you Mr. Gredaro." Dippelboager offered. The Wizard refused the offer politely. He had his reason, and preferred his wizardly arcane powers.

"As a wizard I am obliged to decline the invitation to using any weapons." Gredaro rejected the offer of a weapon to him. 

"Suit yourself Wizard." Dippelboager fired back coolly. 

Dippelboager led the Wizard out of the large building. It was once two buildings now connected as one. One used to be an Inn and the other was a former Pleasure Palace. Between a Conservatorium, and a Merchant Bank this renovated Commerce Center showed value. According to Dippelboager it held space for Accountants, Secretaries, Brokers, Analysts, Actuary, Traders, Merchants, Tax Advisors, General Contractors, and Lawyers. Taking a left out of the Center they passed the Merchant Bank that rested next to a City Watch that had a barracks behind it. A Stone Keep used as a jail house or temporary hold next to the Barracks. Next to the barracks stood a modern brick structure for trade assignments for the inmates or those who dropped out of academies. On their right he could see rows of three story apartments, Bimastiran hospital, Master Theologian Guild, Steam Powered Factory, Ceramics Factory, Boarding House, a Steam Powered Cloth Mill, and Armor Factory. Gredaro looked to his left to see a row of seven buildings showing the evolution of siege weapons. 

A ballista range, catapult range, siege works, Gunsmith, cannon maker, and cannon foundry, and a Royal Arsenal. These were separated by a road cutting through the city. Behind them stood a mustering hall, Garrison Quarters, Drill Square Barracks, Army Barracks, and a Military Academy. This was just for the anti-air crews. Malvieth Island had 36 institutional training stations and garrisons all over the island. Each barracks, garrison, and castle used to  house troops had underground levels. Dippelboager served Malvieth for two years until he got shot in the leg during the Evusian conflict. 

Making their way across the street Gredaro noticed the various automobiles driving on two lane roads, and one way roads. Crowds of people walked on the sidewalks made from cobbled stone and bricks. Past the military anti-air training institute they came to the vicinity of a castle library sitting next to a fort-keep. Behind it stood a complex of homes. Past those stood a row of shops, and homes could be seen. Dippelboager led Gredaro through a few more blocks where they passed homes, modern business along with forty-eight others from an older era. By the time they reached a Bawdyhouse next to the complex closest to the shipyard and most people were heading home. 

"This city alone can field 6,300 riflemen, infantry, 984 cavalry, 933 artillery crew with 186 artillery, 300 bowmen, 32 tanks with 160 crew, 425 knights, 688 militia, 214 Sergeants who act as a police force during peace times, and 41 expert gunslingers permitted to serve as they please. That makes 10,045 available defenders to call upon. This port city holds 405, 820 people. Four other settlements are connected by roads. Ah, here we are at the Queen's Perfect Escape." Dippelboager circulated in pride. His pride died when he looked at the Bawdy House. 

Standing four stories high this Bawdyhouse used to be a noble's manor. Painted and coated in the colors of light purple, white and black roof it stuck out. For a moment he thought Dippelboager would walkaway. The Connector Middle Man rapped on the door of the large building. One of three doors to the Bawdyhouse opened. A woman pocked her head out of the door. Her hair held the color of night itself in a festive style that allowed two locks to hang down. She looked ready to go out for the night. Yet the day was still going and the sun still up. 

"Afternoon gentlemen the house already has 158 customers, and dozen of our girls are available for your time." She projected to them in a tired non-enthusiastic tone. 

"Well good afternoon Hot Cakes Ritta. My client and I are looking for eight mercenaries that are said to be here." Dippelboager fessed up revealing he had once frequented this establishment. 

"Dippelboager." she hissed as she fumed at the very sight of him. "HOW DARE YOU, YOU GOT SOME GAUL SHOWING YOUR FACE HERE!"she snapped at him. 

"Ritta, Ritta hold on I am only here for Terkag, Gorne, the Mikkan twins, Forrall sisters three. That is all and we will leave forever." Dippelboager warned showing comprehensiveness. 

"Fine but just wait in the lobby behind me!" She swung open the door revealing her fancy outfit of blue, and silver. Another woman in a gold sparkly dress, stood nearby. Her light brown hair was styled in a night out style. Her light brown hair could be seen under a tiara cap she wore. Both hands rested on her hips balled up in fists. 

"What's the matter Ritta?" she asked her confused and worried. 

"Look whose here. I bet Bumble Bee Brielle is gonna shoot him after seeing him here." Ritta addressed to the other female. Whom, upon seeing Dippelboager made the most loathing, and disgusted face. A single hand slapped him across the face. 

"For Brielle you slime from an Ogre's crack end!" the other woman insulted as she walked away. 

"Can we just find those effing mercenaries and get out?" Gredaro mumbled to himself. 

Rubbing his face the Connector took the Wizard over to a circle of sofas. They  sat down as Ritta set off to find his contacts. Gredaro checked out the exotic furs, hearts dangling from chandeliers, lantern, lamps, and torch stands painted pink, purple. Portraits of women nude, and clothed posing exotically. Candles of red, purple, and pink lined parts of railings he spotted. In the Bawdy House lobby four hallways connected the lobby to the rest of the manor. Two sets of stairs leading up to the next levels flanked the main hall. Before he had time to ask Dippelboager explained his life story. He chased four women, dated one of them, flirted with one, married the third, and fucked the fourth. One left, the other divorced him, and the fourth one got pregnant with another male. 

"Serves you right. How are women here treated?" He inquired from his Middle Man. 

"These days um, well none are treated like punching bags, and their trade has gotten less sexual. It's mostly dancing, singing, massages, relaxing, stress relief, and music. There are other trades and some fraternizing sex." he explained to the Wizard. 

"What about you Gredaro are there any women in your life?" Dippelboager asked still rubbing his check. He looked defeated and sad. 

"Once there were three women whom I shared a life with. In each relationship we had a bond between us. We laughed, drank, slept, loved, and lived. We completed the other and performed experiments until the bond was severed by death. One by one they died at the hands of the Vearxall." Gredaro explained to him in a brief story for all three. 

"I am 233 years old now." Gredaro revealed to Dippelboager. 

"You don't even look a hundred!" he blurted out loud.