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 stockbrokers, 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. 

Vampires of October

 How he was going to get out of this one he did not know yet. Going around the galaxy was the best adventure he experienced since his pirate armies and armadas crumbled. For years he reigned over the galactic oceans, bringing entire empires to their knees, inciting rebellions, liberating planets while serving as a Privateer. Mockshah witnessed his own armies move against him, mutiny en mass, revolt, fall, waver, flee in panic, dissolve, and disband. It was only himself as he saw it was best he should go solo for some time. He came upon a world that reminded him of his own home planet. This world had different shaped continents, and many of the settlements were left in ruin. Most of this world was abandoned save the scattered thralls of certain masters. When he first came to this world Mockshah was only a squire with his Knight on a hunt for a werewolf. He stuck close to his Knightly Master who shared similar concerns. Coming back to this world felt like a mistake. For among the various monsters found in an encyclopedia full of horror stories he found himself stuck with a pack five vampires. 

Although he was a pirate going solo Mockshah was not the only pirate still around. Several rivals seeking to encounter him one last time before either die were still active. Despite winning the duels he was not the sole surviving pirate nor would he ever be the last of the pirates. Once called Sultan, and Khan of pirates now a lone wolf, lone ranger, Mockshah sat in a comfortable red armchair holding up a cross. In the same massive living room-chamber were ten other pirates seeking he was thought to be after. One of them, a female buccaneer with the nicest pair of melons he ever saw was getting suckled. Her name was Yellow Shark yet he named her Massive Tits behind her back. Next to her was former pirate lord Razor Grayskull with his throat cut. Beside Mockshah was Buccaneer Soul Collector who held up five religious symbols. Three of those symbols were very recognizable on Mockshah's home world. Soul Collector kept chanting "Heaven Let Your Light Shine Down" over and over in a singing voice. It would have gone to a good beat if they had a band. 

Right beside Soul Collector sat Corsair Chief Pearl Joe getting his neck bitten by a female vampire. On Mockshah's other side sat Count Crows Carlos who tried to hang himself before the vampires caught them locked in a triple duel. It was a duel between Mockshah, Yellow Shark and Carlos who refused to become a meal. Instead he became a tasty drink of blood for them. nine vampires sucked the blood out of his body. Seeing him a become a bloodless corpse was horrifying. Caused Yellow Shark to scream. Mockshah was certain he soiled himself a little or freaked out. It was mostly the sweat that soaked his clothing, but he could not check. Beside Yellow Shark getting drained of blood into a few goblets on a table sat Petty Thomas. He was knocked out for a while when he found the trio fighting. That was the second the vampires found them. Mockshah did not know how the others were captured. He held up his religious symbol hoping it kept them at bay. 

Yellow Shark was not the only lady pirate present. Yet she may be only female pirate alive if she survives this and gets out. Already drained of life laying dead with her short hair, and black cloth outfit was Barracuda's Black Heart. Her corpse leaned back in the chair lifeless. She was small in frame, but still managed to show some fight in her. Well she used to until all her blood was sucked up. Next to the Barracuda's corpse sat a dead MacWood the Pirate with his beard now dead with a smile across his throat. He was handed a goblet of wine to toast his secret love interest Yellow Shark. His beard now dripped with blood as it lay on his clothing. MacWood's hat lopsided as his corpse slumped down in the chair. His eyes still wide open and his mouth hung open with the same shocked expression of betrayal. MacWood fessed his love for Yellow Shark who rejected with a hint of disbelief. These vampires played a cruel game with them. Whoever fessed their love gets to live if their love was accepted. The last pirate that came was none other than Admiral Kango Kongos. A dark-skinned pirate Mockshah and many others adored for his comradeship and respect for others even if they were enemies. He always said to come with him on some adventure and a pirate raid. Now he sat with his blood soaking up the chair, and his clothes. Their thralls stabbed him multiple times. Some of the vampires and thralls started licking up the blood of the dead Pirate Admiral who once commanded an armada. 

It was just three of them left. Captain Yellow Shark, Soul Collector and Mockshah. 

Happy Halloween