Cast Out

 Iznar wasn't safe for him anymore, and Ilbryen Brygeiros knew that. It was past time for little Uguunan the Hybrid Spawn to leave. For Twenty long years Ilbryen explored as a Ranger. Islands of Iznar were his home for 500 years before he chose to explore parts of the world. He returned at just the right time. Invaders from the stars were starting to come down in small groups. Far to the west, lands such as Bedwar, Norvath, Vossa, Syrianos, Daedrathia came under control of some hidden power that showed some sort of subjugation. It was also seen in the regions of Khet to the north and parts of Assumarya to the south. Even the coasts of Hadoras and its jungles started to show a form of subjugation to these peoples from the stars. Ilbryen discovered a bit of resistance to such subjugation in the likes of Syrianos, parts of Daedrathia, Ermentwa, Luvahan, Cydnam, Nevradit, and a larger region called Lesdonia. Two other kingdoms were in alliance with this Lesdonia known as Khazadgul, and Sercane. Even Iznar's trade partners Hradria which is really Rhadeen showed signs of resistance towards this. Kingdoms and states like Jumar, and Luvahan expressed a warry concern over these newcomers from the stars. Vios-Morgas was split once again, and it looked more permanent this time. 

As he picked up Uguunan he thought of Koriv, Grussia, Vunnace, and Eoth who were showing a great deal of distaste towards these newcomers. Thanks to the advancement in technology and the funds for mass producing inventions travel became easier over the decades. If there was a civilization out there with the same technology states of Calorn were taking their sweet time progressing in some areas. Yet some things were expensive, and the cheaper vehicles would break down too often most travelers like himself. The preferred method may have been horseback or some other steed, but the new form of travel cut their journey by sea. It either took a whole day or mere hours to get somewhere across the Iznar sea. After discussing the issue with the council in Iznar's eastern island county Ilbryen chose to leave. For a good five years he stayed home until the year 1844 A.N. A Brygeiros family rival the Caskells sent a package with poison on it. The servant died just hours after picking it up. Four Brygeiros children were in the hospital after touching it. Ilbryen wanted to stay and fight these Caskell pests. His chances were cut off when the issue of Uguunan's birth came to their ears. Some family ally to the Brygeiros would face exile if they did not get rid of that spawn. Since he was one of several dozen travelers who journeyed far to the south Ilbryen was selected to take Uguunan. His reasons for leaving also had to do with rivalry amongst his siblings and cousins who sought a piece of the family wealth. Main Head of the family "Chief Sire" Corym Brygeiros passed away. He only promised them a share of his inheritance and wealth. As for Ilbryen he wasn't there when Corym made the decision. Some Elves chose to live on well past two or millennia. Yet others went off to let their lives die on some adventure if a war or conflict did not kill them. Elves such as Corym chose to poison themselves or have themselves killed quickly if they reached a good millennium or two. 

Holding Uguunan's hand Ilbryen looked around at the port the steam transport dropped them off. On the pier dock they stood next to a cart-wagon full of merchandise some merchant forgot about or left unattended. Ilbryen was now at the city-state of Paserus, a neutral city that chose not to partake in the current conflict with the invaders. Their transport flew the flag of the city-state, the one of neutrality and a few others. Its neutral flag saved them from the Gantronese patrol boats and Mulzaneen brigs. Holding Uguunan's stubby left hand, which felt smooth compared to the right hand. Uguunan was stubby little fellow whose legs did not match his body. Somehow, he was able to move around only with a limping hobble. His pale pinkish skin had reddish bumps allover except for the arms where he was hairy. Maids of the household said he looked like a mix between a hairless monkey and a wrinkled hairless gopher. He or it was wrapped up in a dark blue fabric with the classical patterns along the edges. 

While holding Uguunan by the hand Ilbryen moved further on the pier dock. In the center of Paserus Port stood a violet Dragon carved out of the stone decorated in Saphires, violet glass, purple glass, and amethysts. This statue appeared perched on a stone hill acting as a landmark. Paserus was mainly an elf city-state with a minority of other races that now coexisted. Most of those were humans, half-elves, tall Goblins, Orcs, and Dwarves. Looking around he noticed Paserus was mainly a traditional, religious, and humble population. Forty-nine citizens dressed as monks of both religious ordeal and martial artist style passed them. Each one either looked forward or had their head bowed with the hoods up. Among this particular crowd a female human in a red bodice and white dress trotted about, a sand blonde female elf in a dark blue cotton outing robe waltzed about, and a middle-class looking dock worker wearing loafers and modern khakis passed them. Two soldiers of Paserus in their brown uniforms patrolled around as a merchant in loafers and traditional long tunic tried to get their attention. Ilbryen decided to move through this crowd hoping to blend in and avoid suspicions or attention. He almost bumped into a well-dressed Elf Aristocrat in Ox brown fine shoes. The blonde-haired elf nearly turned on him when a sandal wearing dockhand with a fine tan caught his attention. One casually dressed female Elf in regular shoes also caught the aristocrat's attention about portraits or something. Moving away Ilbryen and his companion come across a travelling Mulzaneen in a Caftan. He could tell this one would be drafted the moment he returned home. However, he was curious if this was why the Mulzaneen was here to escape such a draft. They passed 4 more wealthy looking figures in fine vests, modern looking doublets, and elegant robes. A pair of casual looking humans nearly bumped into them in what looked like denim trousers, and new khakis with either a tunic or plaid shirt. Another figure brushed past them in the most modernized clothing of the era. Not a trace of traditional wardrobe was on them. This caught his attention as they progressed onto cobble street next to the dock portions of the port. 

Aside from the traditional Elf houses of towering shapes that resemble tree shapes Pesarus had those human style houses, and brick houses. Many of the Elf houses held the shapes of towering trees without the actual branches and leaves. Upon closer inspection one could see the roofing tiles almost resemble leaves. Some were made from wood, other stone or brick. Plenty were made from both materials. It was easy to tell which was a house and which was a shop, store, forgery, cafe den, or winery. A few other types of structures could be identified such as loan shark office, bank, cartographer, tailor, butcher, retailer, grocery store, shipwright, ropemaker, barrel craftsman, blacksmith, and other businesses. A pair of younger looking youth caught his eye by the third dock. A male swordsman in an all-black uniform, and jacket stood next to a raven-haired female in a blue dress, apron, and bow. The male wielded a Wakizashi, and the female a cleaver. Both were about to engage a four-armed humanoid in lethal combat. Ilbryen placed Uguunan on a barrel warning him to stay put. He turned around to help the two youth on the street in front of an alley. Grabbing his basket hilted saber Ilbryen prepared to intervene on behalf of the two youth. The young male was too cocky to wait for help or even plan anything. He moved in only to get grappled by the four-armed monster that also had a single eye. It proceeded to rip off the male youth's arms off before taking his own weapon and impaling him in the chest. Tossing the dead youth into the crowd that gathered it moved on the girl who he swore soiled herself. 

Ilbryen could tell she was not ready for this encounter. Her whole body shivered with fear. Another figure leapt out of the crowd wearing monkish robes from Vunnace. It explained the gold iris flower on the front. Coming forth this "Vunnacian Monk" unsheathed a battle axe they hid under the robe next to a longsword.  Ilbryen watched this Vunnacian throw the battle axe into the humanoid's exposed armpit. Roaring in pain it yanked the axe out rendering its upper arm useless. This Vunnacian moved in cutting the other arm off. Ilbryen moved in for the kill as it swung at the "Monk" with the other arms. Attacking from its right flank Ilbryen thrust his blade like a spear into its side. He jammed his weapon at an upward angle hoping to hit its lungs or heart. When his attack was successful, he pulled his weapon out and leapt back expecting it to counterattack. Cleaning his blade Ilbryen watched this monster humanoid collapse on the cobble street lifeless. Bystanders either stayed, left in a panic, or sauntered off seeing the action was over. Ilbryen turned to where the girl was, but found she vanished into the streets of Paserus. Turning his attention to the Vunnacian he thanked him for the aid. Introducing himself he learned the "Monk" was a Crusader named Captain Harold Glade of the 5th Order of the Iris Raven. Harold was sent over to recruit some volunteers willing to fight the Nazdar and the Gantronese. All he got so far was a lone pirate Captain who lost his ship, plus crew, and a female elf Wizard with a hatred for a group called Vearxalls. He also mentioned a young Paladin Initiate from Luvahan. Ilbryen explained his own reason for being here when a group of 12 angry looking soldiers wearing green and blue uniforms. Despite the upgrading in armament plenty of factions chose to stick with certain uniforms. Paserus Elf Soldiers wore a blue or green buttoned coat over white one-piece garments in knee high boots. On their heads rested either a bicorn hat or a shako hat. It could be assumed the styles were valued more, which would make them easier targets when it came to actual fighting. Yet Ilbryen did not doubt the capability of Paserusian Soldiers defending their city-state. On horseback one of the bicorn wearing officers addressed the lot of them over the violence in the streets. 

Ilbryen did not know the laws of Paserus very well and he presumed Harold did not either. He looked for Uguunan only to find him held by the cloak. A female soldier had him in her grasp. After hearing the Officer wanted him and Harold out of the city, he requested for his companion to be left alone about this. Somehow the Officer and the female soldier agreed to let Uguunan alone about the violence. The little spawn poked her log and boots. Ilbryen retrieved Uguunan before he touched the woman where he shouldn't. Getting cast out was not a big deal for him as Ilbryen was only passing through to another city-state between the two great empires, Illician. He followed Harold away from the port area wondering if this Crusader would join him. Knowing his journey was not over by a longshot he followed Harold out of the city and into the outskirts. Past the city limits Harold led him and Uguunan to a large white house that appeared overgrown. It was where he and a score of others hid out while recruiting more volunteers. Taking Uguunan by the hand Ilbryen brought the spawn inside feeling cast out, but not alone. 

Castaria-Zegrav #3: Insurgency?

Monsters, and other wild creatures spread across the continents, because of this current conflict and the few others in the past. Warriors, heroes, monster slayers, Champions, and knights turned their focus on these wars over taking down monsters. Many of them also retired or moved to different professions. Yes it left the monster slaying to the Zhenrai Order and their associates. However they had other enemies to take on in the west. It also left it to the soldiers of the V.U.V.R. Brynn was just a girl when she got to meet Zhenrai Knights for the first time in her life. A pair of werewolves attacked livestock, killed several clansmen, and farmers in the Clan Regions of New Vattoram. This happened while their clan warriors went after a pack of 15 serpent monsters down the river. She did not get see them kill those monsters like she wanted. Brynn wasn't alone in the desire to witness all of the fighting against these monsters. Other youth in her 615 member clan begged to see those Zhenrai in action. Some asked to join the order. Her Clan was small and needed everyone close to help with livestock and the crops so none of them were given a positive answer. 

A month and a week later the Zhenrai had to return to their Clan county. Six restless spirits haunted a newly constructed barn. Her own father allowed it to be constructed next to their stables and ranch. On her family property they shared land with this farmer who brought a cow, 3 ponies, a bull, 3 sheep, one goat, donkey, pig and a camel. this added to their own 12 cows, 8 goats, 9 donkeys, 2 horses, 6 pigs, 14 sheep, and ten Yackdreth. A team of farm hands helped run it while 3 knights guarded it. Despite their bravery those ghosts scared them more than any Gnoll, Ogre, or Troglodytes that prowled the countryside. What the Zhenrai did involved one of their priestlier members. Brynn never got to see them deal with the ghosts. One of these specters scared her when she tried taking a peak. Brynn mentally waved the memories away to concentrate on the Dinotzi Thumb's defenses. As she made her way down the hill of the motte and bailey Brynn got a better view of the situation heading towards them. This whole village and motte n baily reminded her home. Some of the steer reminded her of the furry and wooly Yackdreth herds. Yackdreth came in different sizes and various horns. Yet all of them had those deer like eyes, and hawk like beaks. Some were black furred, wheat colored, brown, and ginger. Several types of horns could be found on these creatures. A ram style set of horns, antlers, cow horns, horns that appear like tusks from under the ears, goat horns, and tri horned could be found on the species known as Astrinus Brannae. Seeing the horde get closer she quickened her pace. 

Brynn passed Town Guards and civilians before she found Kriscyne at the Tavern. He sat down in what looked like a dress at first glance. Upon closer inspection it was not a dress, but some fabric worn by certain clans. His Dragoons were stirring from their shot rest. A short rest that was interrupted by the sirens of the alarm. Every Dragoon he still had available formed two lines outside the tavern. Brynn watched them do this realizing they already knew they were under attack. Kriscyne got up from the chair he occupied. He put on his pants tucking in the fabric with his shirt. As he put on his boots several shots rang out, signaling to them the settlement defenders already spotted this approaching force. Another set of gunshots came as a warning to these attackers. Kriscyne wielded his carbine rifle ready to engage the attackers. 

"How many are there?" he asked her. 

"Just 137 Town Guards, 58 soldiers, 20 cavalry, and 17 warriors at least." she answered the Dragoon Lieutenant. 

"I meant the attacking force! Not the defenders." he replied as more gunshots could be heard outside. 

"A few thousand or more. They must have planned this for some time." she suspected as the ratatat of machine gun fire joined the chorus.

"Dragoons!" he addressed his man who straightened at attention. Kriscyne exited the tavern with Brynn following him. "Go aid these defending townsfolk, help will come soon. It always does." 

"How is Vygoon?" she asked Kriscyne. Losing a leg in combat was never a pleasant experience. One was lucky if they got the leg reattached. 

"Asleep in the apothecary and doctor of this village. However she will not get her leg back. At 42 years old she looks good for her age, yet a mother to five. I believe she will be returning home to spend time with them afterwards." Kriscyne replied to her. He dismissed the rest of the Dragoons. 

His Dragoons saluted him then bolted for the defenses armed with their weapons. The two leaders were left to rally her Country Guards. At a quickened pace they went through an empty labyrinth of streets. Rosefire's  Country Guard could be found at their headquarters along the edge of the village. Positioned closer to the Motte and Bailey it had its own walls of palisades. Rather than give the password she banged on the gate door. 

"Let us in you lazy Muskylats! The Thumb is under attack!" Brynn hollered at those inside. Country Guards under her command opened the door for her and Lt. Kriscyne. One hundred thirty-five raced out with their own weapons at hand. Every one of them were afraid she would hand them over to the military or to the prisons of Gaskouth Ladai. Both would send them to the front in cold Vimasdra, Brynn heard it became a stalemate as of 1844. Neither side could outmaneuver the other. Dogfights and bombings came seldom due to the weather. 

"You aren't going to brief them in?" Kriscyne critiqued her. This Lieutenant was unfamiliar with how the Country Guard worked. She turned her head to face him.

"They know what to do, Lieutenant. Dinotzi Thumb comes under attack by warbands every season. I would have them shoot from this place except it catches fire too easily. Plus shooting from inside echoes into the ears and would scare my owl companion." She explained to the Dragoon Lieutenant as more fire was exchanged with the attackers. Brynn hooted like an owl summoning a hawk owl cross-bred a falcon from Badraan-Lheobethe. It flew over to her excited to see her. 

"This is Maplebee, she has been with me for ten years. She is a gift from a travelling wizard I saved from Troglodytes in the Bymere Country. He was selling bred owls and hawks for income while travelling." Brynn stretched out an arm for Maplebee to perch on. Closing the doors she led the Dragoon over to the stables where she left her weapons. One volley of fire was exchanged from the attackers over to the defensive barriers and walls. Total strength rose to over 588 thanks to volunteers from the villagers. Maplebee flew away to the keep of the motte and bailey leaving her to fight this battle. 

Over the course of three hours they pushed back this larger force. It wasn't until night time when the shooting stopped. Kriscyne and Brynn met with the leaders of each defending group of Dinotzi Thumb. For the Town Guards a Captain Grahab Riovos led them. Grahab was a human Castarian who appeared to be aging to late 40s who wore the Vestrisian blue uniform with pauldron armor pieces on his shoulders. A half Orc commanded the garrison of 58 soldiers and 20 cavalry as Captain Ingaarm Granskull. Leading the Sheriffs was none other than Karl who was the Warden-Sheriff. A team of 10 sheriffs had to command an assembled force of 191 volunteers with help from 6 Elves and 17 warriors. Mayor Tauler was present as well, since it was required of her. Inside the Townhall they held this meeting. Tauler was a medium sized woman who had seen plenty of adventures and a few wars in her lifetime. She had reddish brown hair, light brownish skin tone, a very distinct appearance that reflected beauty in her youth. This Mayor wore a green suit dress with a few necklaces showing off her past loot. On her head rested a felt hat with a circlet sewn to it. 

"That was the only first wave we pushed back today." Ingaarm pointed out. Brynn agreed there would be more waves coming after them tomorrow. 

"I did not get a real count of how many attacked us. We may have taken out several hundred." Riovas put in. None of them argued about the casualties. It was nothing short of a miracle that they lost no one. She saw with her own eyes these attackers wielded rifles along with missile weapons. 

"What does this settlement have for defenses?" Kriscyne asked making his words sound more like a demand. Even though he saw it firsthand the Lieutenant revealed he did not see the whole settlement or noticed it upon their arrival. 

"One wall surrounds the village, another for the fort, two for the motte and bailey castle-keep. More palisades connect the settlements together. One ditch around the whole thing. Another ditch circles around the fort and the scarp mound. For weaponry, everyone either has a bow, melee weapon or a hunting rifle. However most of the fighting aged youth and adults have gone to war. That just leaves us the town guard, sheriffs, my troops, warriors, and any volunteers among the population. We do posses 6 machine guns, 3 cannon-artillery pieces, 103 revolvers, 73 percussion pistols, 44 grenades, 67 machine pistols, 155 bolt action rifles, 319 extra rifles, 52 old style rifles, and 18 traps." Ingaarm Granskull assured Kriscyne, yet it sounded more like he was bragging. 

"Does the military know we are under attack?" A female Sheriff blurted out catching everyone's attention. Brynn glanced over at this female sheriff who had blonde locks of hair coming out of her brown dirty fedora like a waterfall. In her typical Sheriff's khaki colored trousers she wore a flannel shirt with the sleeves rolled up. Over the flannel shirt she donned a denim jacket with the sleeves torn off. Underneath she wore a traditional Castarian Miska, a tunic dress with a colorful pattern on the neck and chest. It did not cover her forearm tattoos. Brynn saw one side of her face was smooth while the other was burned with Gnoll claw scars across the cheek. 

"Yes Sheriff Valod they do. Or do we call you Sheriff Sugar Daddy Divor three arms?" Karl remarked at her. Valod's face turned into a shocked and scared expression. Her fear showed she had something to hide. 

Was she engaging in sexual acts with other women? Brynn's eyes went to her crotch then glanced at her own quickly. Squinting her eyes with suspicions Brynn kept any ideas out Valod to herself. This sheriff had a secret that was known to some, but not all. Brynn did not want to know either. Every leader of the Thumb's defenses present blinked their eyes in silence for a few moments. Riovas chose to break the silence that filled the room. 

"Some of the civilians who came to us for safety say these attackers killed 22 people. Two were cut down, 7 cut in half, and 11 had their heads cut off. That is not all to their story. Some of these attackers were killed by the ones who met a gruesome death, which were their first kills. One these attackers' casualties were the Castarian Flag from its days as an empire wrapped around them." Riovas explained to the leaders. Another voice appeared in the room followed by a loud door slam as someone closed it. 

"I believe the Political Officer and Senator were correct in their orders. What we have here is an insurgency. Good evening everyone, excuse me for the intrusion I am Major Ollen Jakab. I have arrived with 226 Dragoons, and 6 paratroopers as reinforcements. Is there a Captain Rosefire?" the owner of the voice interjected politely. 

"Right here." Brynn replied wondering if he had something for her like orders. What was this about?  What did he want with her?

"Does one hundred twenty four Country Guards under the command of Lieutenant Rothburt  and a Sergeant Hathinne have you as a Captain?" Major Jakab asked her. 

"Yes they Major Jakab! Now can we know how you got past those attackers?" Mayor Tauler demanded from the Major, throwing the weight of her position a little on him. She did her best to make it sound more like a request. 

Major Jakab, human of around 36 years old who held a height of 5'6 was a lean male with an oblong face. On his left cheek he had a gash that was healed over. The rest of his scars, if he had any more, were covered by his Dragoon's uniform that was much like Kriscyne's uniform. On his uniform Jakab wore few more pins and patches showing experience in the field. His rank as Major required him to wear a badge of some sort. He briefly described how they got past the attacking forces. Brynn's own Country Guard led them through a back entrance hidden by trees flanking the rear of the Thumb. Each leader was dismissed by the Mayor after explaining to the Major what was going on. Kriscyne was sent to the Tavern while Jakab had Lieutenant Rothburth report to her, his Captain Rosefire. 

"Colonel Bencasa's scouts found us with orders to prepare for an insurgency. He believes it could stir up a rebellion in Castaria, and Zegrav.-" Rothburt informed her in his report. She cut him off. 

"He sent you where your commander is . Did you find anything in your shortened patrol?" She continued his report for him. 

"Just a group of Rangers camped out 27 miles from here. A group of 14 Rangers, Captain." He answered her. Rothburt expected her to punch him in the stomach for moving towards other orders. She did not, since he would be needed for the Dinotzi Thumb's defense. 

"What about the swamp creatures and armed Ghouls? You were supposed to, well Sergeant Hathinne should have taken care of them." Brynn questioned the Lieutenant. In her own mindset he own Country Guard should do their duties their unit commanding officer to them first. Then perform the second duties given during the first. 

"You are dismissed Lieutenant. Get some rest." She ordered the Country Guard. Sending people off to bed made her feel like a mother. She herself went to bed after petting Maplebee her owl for a while. Their next battle would have to come in the morning. As for the existence of this insurgency, she was not so certain. Many Castarians opposed the oligarchy and Czarist rulers the VUVR defeated in the field. Was their some hidden tradition the V.U.V.R. insulted or  something? She would have to get answers tomorrow or the day after. 

   

Castaria-Zegrav #2: Cooperation

 Brynn dismounted to get a better look at the corpses.  Hoping these Dragoons would allow her to peek she went past Lt. Kriscyne, and a few other Dragoons. Intent on ignoring their orders Brynn went up to the closest corpse. None of them bothered her about it. Glancing up to check, she saw they split up to search for more and their source. Taking a good look at the closest one she approached had a height of 6ft 7 inches. Just looking at it she estimated it weighed over 200 lbs. Its skin appeared light pinkish gray with boils and scars. Ten bullet holes had blood seeping out from where it was shot. Her eyes studied this humanoid's one eye. Did these lands host more inhabitants that hide from everyone else? She recalled her encounters with Gnolls, Troglodytes, wild Blackmell Orcs, Kuruks, and Molorcs. There were also the Goblins who were still wild that attacked people. Brynn never encountered anything like this before. Where the eyes would be just skin stretched over it. In the center and where the nose bridge rested lay a fist sized eye. No nose could be seen on this humanoid. Just a single slit lay between its eye and gaping mouth. 

Noticing the eyes color was disappearing into a dead grey, she looked at its hands. Six fingers on one, and just four on the left hand, showing it lost two somewhere along its life. She was about to estimate how old it was, when a 6ft 9 cobbles tall brawny humanoid with spiral horns appeared. Brynn looked up to see it was a Kuruk wielding an axe. Her hand shot for the pistol as 26 more Kuruks appeared out of the brush and fat tree. Armed with long axes, Bardiches, Glaives, war-scythes, and partisans, these Kuruks wore laminar armor, bone armor, and studded leather armor. Looking over her shoulder she noticed none of the Dragoons saw them yet. 

Brynn fired a single shot at the axe wielding Kuruk before bolting for her horse. Three of the Dragoons got caught off guard while checking the other corpses. One got his head smashed in, a second became speared in the chest while the third was cut down with a single blow. Only one of those three Dragoons killed their attacker with a single shot at point blank range through its lung. Kriscyne's other thirteen Dragoons opened fire on these Kuruks. Ten more went down in the burst of gunfire. That did not stop the other sixteen armed Kuruks from advancing further. One big ram horned Kuruk kicked a Dragoon to the ground before getting shot up. Another cleaved the leg off a kneeling female Dragoon who prepared her carbine rifle. She let out a panicked and shocked scream of agony. This female fired a shot when that hit its leg. Brynn remounted when the other Dragoons fired two volleys unto the rest of the Kuruks. 

The remaining Dragoons gathered up their injured comrade. Kriscyne turned to Brynn who scanned the area for more hostiles. Just looking at his face she could tell he wanted to combine forces. At the same time he regretted the thought. The female Dragoon still screamed while her fellow Dragoons bandaged her up. One of his Dragoons happened to be a surgeon who patched it up. He also wrapped the leg for reattachment attempts. Kriscyne's wounded dragoon slowly stopped screaming as the surgeon had her take a shot of whiskey and bite down on a piece of leather. Brynn caught his attention and nodded to him. He only glared at her in confusion. 

"We can combine forces Lieutenant! Your wounded can rest and recover at one of our locations. Four of my men could take her to the closest one." She projected to him. Lieutenant Kriscyne's eyes shifted for several seconds before replying to her. 

"(Sigh) Very well, Firerose. Azgolli, Saudari, Dawudin, gather up Grikon's, Vygoon's, Kayris', and Galib's weapons. Collect their equipment also, use their horses to carry cargo. I will collect all personal belongings except for Vygoon's. Put her stuff with her steed." Kriscyne barked out showing he was irritated. Three Dragoons followed his orders. Brynn looked over her shoulder at her 277 Country-Guard. Their next stop was an old Motte and Bailey nearly 20 miles away. 

"Lieutenant, we are headed for Dinotzi Thumb, a Motte and Bailey mixed with a village, and palisade fort 18 miles from here." She told the Lieutenant. Brynn recalled the swamp creatures and group of Ghouls she was informed about. 

Kriscyne looked perplexed and intrigued by this. Head Quarters for him possibly lay 41 miles away in one of the bigger cities. It could also be a barracks in a fort with a garrison of 1,700-2,000 or more. Knowing the full strength the VUVR military could muster, these Dragoons were part of the reserves. At the top of her head Brynn recounted how many locations they had as a base or outpost. Mainly along the border of Zegrav and Castaria. Aside from the humble hut, barracks, dwelling of six buildings, and palisade dwelling, they had seven other locations. Two of those spots they had to share with a unit of 112 Country-Guard under the command of a Zhenrai outcast. She knew of two other groups who patrolled the southern central Castaria. 

"It is only 18 miles from here you say." He showed a bit of hope over what she said to him. 

"Yes. I can split my force into three groups. One group can take Vygoon to that location, the other can take care of business. As for the third one, it can partake in patrolling the region." she responded to him. 

Without much hesitation Brynn divided her unit into three groups. Under a Sergeant's command, 40 would take out the Swamp creatures and hunt the ghoul monsters. She placed a Lieutenant Rothburt in command of 100 who would patrol the region for a week. Taking the rest of the 135 Country-Guard, Brynn helped bury the fallen Dragoons. Riding at full gallop to the Dinotzi Thumb, she dropped the Dragoons off at a tavern in the village. Kriscyne needed a place to scribe his report then send it via courier. She offered for him to join forces with hers once again. He declined saying his superiors required his duties elsewhere up north. Leaving him and his Dragoons alone she sauntered over to the awaiting award. At the office in the bailey castle she found Warden-Sheriff Hilburt Karl, the official under Mayor Afina Tauler. Hilburt was a Zedirian since he had human, Orc, and a blend of Goblin in his background. Just looking at this thirty something year old hybrid appeared a little overweight. He sat in his chair with his gut rising above the desk. Brynn ignored the gut and his glare. 

"What will it be Sheriff?" She asked forcing a smile on her face. She held up the bounty for the monster humanoids they slew. He did not look very pleased. 

"Considering the Gnolls, and Bandits whom you left none alive. I'd say it totals 662 Republic Eagles." Karl said to her picking up a sack of currency. He placed it on the desk for her to grab. 

"Is that it?" She asked feeling backstabbed. 

"Not even close. Funds aren't exactly going to bounties these days, Brynn. However the VUVR as seen to it all units operating in Castarian, and Zegrav country get something out of it." Karl answered her as he adjusted himself in is seat. It creaked loudly and repeatedly making it sound like it was going to give way at any moment. 

"What are they handing us?" Brynn demanded slamming a fist on the desk. Ever since Castaria entered this VUVR she operated in this area keeping the peace and clearing the countryside of monsters. 

"Better tents, updated maps thanks to aviators, extra shirts, new riding trousers, new boots, essential camping equipment, actual food rations, shovels, ponchos, and extra horseshoe equipment." Sheriff Karl handed her a list of items they were being given as a reward. She read the items as 54 tents, 5 maps, 249 new boots, 500 socks, 286 canteens, 35 compasses, cooking gear, 243 blankets, 158 sleeping bags, 17 binoculars, 29 aid kits, 94 lanterns, flint, 199 hammocks, food rations, and ammunition). Brynn's gaze shot from the list to the Warden-Sheriff. 

"Is this it?" she blurted out with wide eyes of disbelief. 

"At least they are handing you better equipment! That is not it! Your unit will be given 204 lever repeaters, 115 revolvers, 72 T.M. 13 bolt action rifles. Each firearm comes with 50 rounds, yet they were generous to give you 39 grenades, 94 helmets, and one E-7 rifle. I am not even finished unless you like to check yourself. Due to the generosity of Baroness Magfaren your outpost-bases are receiving extra structures. A ruined tower nearby one is getting renovated while a farm-stable is getting constructed. It will come with 8 cows, 5 sheep, 3 goats, 14 chickens, 5 horses, and a donkey. It will be operated by an orphan boy and 2 male laborers. One family of four will be maintaining the base as well. At three of them 3 country lodges will be constructed while all seven are getting a complex. At two of the locations 2 farmhouses will be built each will be getting a small livestock of Donkeys, cows, chickens, goats, and sheep. At one of them 3 female feeders will operate the farm, the locals will help run the other one. A horse trainer and caretaker will be at one station with a veterinarian, 5 equestrians who will bring 12 horses. One will receive a horse farm with 27 extra horses and a larger stable. A team of ten from the nearby town will help out. A bunny farmer will be setting up base, since some of your own mean enjoy rabbit stew. A total of 30 rabbits will be starting out. Another farm will be built bringing 8 pigs, 13 cows, and 3 hands operating it. Another farm will be constructed at one near the border with pigs, cows, goats, chickens, and mules. Some old station will be converted into a suitable office along the edge of one of the cities.  Three windmills and 3 water towers will be returned to service. Here you are getting a forge and your own bleeding tavern. Plus five beekeepers will be stationed at different locations. So that is what you will be receiving." Karl reciting what else was being handed to them. He folded his chubby hands on the desk. 

"We already have a farmstead at one of those locations. It supplies us well enough with capable hands operating them." Brynn protested still feeling a little betrayed. She pondered over this realizing it might actually benefit them. "Second thought, I accept all of this part of my own Country-guards are dealing with some swamp creatures, and Ghouls from Zegrav." 

"The less monsters we have to deal with the better. Ever since this war started, they've been increasing in numbers to the near point of infestation. Also, those new hands operating your bases are from Vullan." Karl pointed out to her. 

"What!? Scum from Vullan?" She snapped feeling the wounds reopen from the earlier setback. Now she has to sit in the same building as those overzealous, female violating vermin, pests from the islands. 

"No, refugees, and former slaves to the Vullanese Temples." Karl rebuked back at her. 

"Oh." She did not realize their VUVR was bringing in civilians from Vullanese Islands. 

"One of them has Spastic flu, or at least recovering from the horrifying disease. Another keeps babbling on about rectangular shields used in combat." Warden Karl put in. He leaned back in his chair causing it to creak even more. She could have sworn it would give way any minute. The door to his office burst open. A town guard in average clothing with a blue armband on his left arm. Their clean-shaven face and long nose made them appear like a pale crow wearing a cap. 

"Sheriff Karl we are under attack!" the town guard informed him in a comprehensive and excited voice. 

"By who, the Nazdar? They are getting their teeth kicked in all over the front." Karl remarked sarcastically. 

"Sheriff just raise the alarm and get the town guard to their posts! The people will hide in the bunkers bellow." The Town Guard urged him. 

Rolling his eyes, the large Warden Sheriff got up and pulled back a wooden sliding panel. It revealed an alarm switch. He pulled it down turning on the alarm system. Screaming sirens filled the air as a warning of an attack. Brynn rushed out of the Motte and Bailey to see a sizeable force heading this way. Did the Vestrisians and Castarians disagree on how to run things as usual? She remembered back in 1837 tensions between the member states and Castaria rose high enough to ignite a civil war. Villages still came under attack out of control, and people went missing only to be found by some adventurer after killing a monster. Castaria claimed it would control the situation. It did, but not enough to keep the vermin from amassing in force. Donitzi Thumb had 137 Town Guards, 58 soldiers, 20 cavalry men manning the fort, and 17 warriors to protect 1,359 residents. Dinotzi Thumb's residents were rushing towards the bailey and fort for protection. Their defenders were just rallying to their stations armed with T.M. 13 rifles, Repeaters, shotguns, and Etterson rifles or E-5s. She raced past the marshaling defenders, and scared civilians to warn her own Country-Guard, and Kriscyne's Dragoons. Looking up at the force she saw it was still growing in force. More people raced towards the Dinotzi Thumb. From the corner of her eye she spotted a lone rider racing towards the northeast. She was facing southward. 

Castaria-Zegrav #1: Country-Guard

 "What did you do this time?" she asked kicking him in the side. 

Still holding the scoped rifle in his arms Wyllum Gravezz lay against a thick tree root. He did not stir from his spot, but his eyes were open showing signs she woke him up. Seeing he did not answer nor get up she kicked him again. Wyllum still did not get up acting as a stubborn ass and fool. A fool that acted brain dead and hard of hearing. She could not believe the insubordination he was displaying right now. This sort of behavior would never slide with the V.U.V.R. and the now old Black Coats. Being part Elf, and part human with a hint of Forsythan she came from a Celic Clan like family in Bymere. Brynn Rosefire had enough of Wyllum's stubbornness already. It had been two weeks since the last time she saw anyone with the expression of carelessness, but guilty. 

"Get up first then tell me what you did this time!" She commanded him with anger in her voice. Under her command were 7 Orc Slicers from Geverine, 5 Half-Orc locals, 18 Goblin Archers (Marksmen), 16 alchemists, 5 female elf archers, 15 male elf bowmen, 21 swordsmen, one female Forysthan as a bodyguard, 18 short rogues, 18 clansmen warriors, and 9 highlanders from Naatrida. Among these 133 she also commanded some extra 144 volunteers from those who could not find a spot in the V.A.V.R. or other branches of the V.U.V.R. military. There were those who did not make the cut, others conscripted from prison sentences, black sheep, outcasts, and the ones whose families forbade them from joining. Most of these made up the irregular army country-guard of the V.U.V.R. They were loosely linked with the National Guards whose job it was to patrol, scour, and hunt for any monsters, outlaws, or renegades. Her 277 country-guard were one of 30 units operating all over the Vestrisan Republics. Wyllum was one of those young rebellious conscripts whose parents believed this would straighten him out. She wanted to prove them wrong by sending him back home. 

"Yes Captain." Wyllum replied getting up. He straightened himself in the irregular black oil skin coat over an ugly plaid shirt, denim trousers, military style boots, and a tan shirt that still did not cover the chest tattoo. His long mop hair made him appear like a homeless tramp of a dog. Not facial hair could be seen as he was clean shaven. 

"What did you do?" Brynn demanded from him seizing the rifle from him. Since the war required the best military hardware the country-guard had to make due with older weapons including some old traditional ones. Aside from bows, swords, axes, cudgels, maces, spears, war picks, short-swords, daggers, long knives, war hammers, and machetes, they were commissioned firearms. Among her country-guard the authorities commissioned 51 repeater rifles, 90 T.M.10 breech loaders, 39 shotguns(double barreled), 166 old Onway pistols, 48 revolvers, 33 machine pistols, 12 hunting rifles, 16 bolt action rifles, 55 scoped rifles, 10 7mm Submachinegun, 4 Legacy Machineguns, and 19 T.M. 13 bolt-action rifles for the Hallowed Rangers. They had more back at their own headquarters as well as the alchemists. 

"I shot a suspicious figure by the old temple to Ipsul and ancient Griballi." Wyllum answered her. 

Looking over her right shoulder Brynn spotted the temple ruin in the distance. A patchwork of trees grew around it and three had grown inside it. Four other structures stood nearby it, forming a nice tiny settlement. It was more of a dwelling, but still large enough for anyone to campout or hide in. A squad of 17 Dragoons of the V.U.V.R. who were also members of the Armored Branches whether it was a tank, armored vehicle, or motorbike. In this area most of the vehicles were reserved for the frontlines. That left them limited to horses. She had no doubt they were hear because of the shot Wyllum fired. Just earlier this morning they also shot up a bunch of hostiles. A band of 36 Bandits who attacked a village, and some warband of 67 Gnolls that burned a nearby homestead estate. Just yesterday her company had to kill a pack of 15 Wolves. Each one made for an edible meal. Today was a huge wild beast of a cow someone believed to be a Yackdreth. 

"Well Wyllum you and I shall ride over there and discuss this matter with those Dragoons. Am I understood?" Brynn told Wyllum getting close and personal. Her nose inches from his face. Hope to the gods that was an outlaw he shot. She thought to herself. Brynn did not get a very good look at the figure he shot yet as she was preoccupied with a group of 9 Elf Male Sorcerers travelling with 24 Castarian Skells(retainers). This group reported 10 swamp creatures to the south, and 22 Ghouls crossing over from Zegrav desecrating graves. One of them known as Ibe shuddered saying the fiends were feasting on the dead. Fortunate for them their retainers killed a few Ghouls, and Swamp creatures, allowing for them to avoid others. 

Grumbling under his breath Wyllum saddled up on his steed "Obe", an ashen grey horse of six years old. She mounted her own brown mare with white spots she named "Hahzel". Since they did not receive much they did manage to get 282 horses to travel on. Thanks to the generosity of locals, dying lords, and barren house holds her Hallowed Rangers received a humble hut, rocky bunker base that could be covered with a tent or wooden roof on stakes, dwelling of 4 cottages, 2 stone houses, a fenced two building dwelling with a well. A cart with supplies were given to them as well as crates and barrels to keep them well fed. At some sites they had to construct their own stables. Riding over to these Dragoons Brynn thought about the words she would say to these Dragoons called over here by someone. In the distance of Southern Castaria-Zegrav she could see some other settlements. Cities of Green-Blade, Manscar, Eagle's Wound, Glass-Rose, Bovengrad, Kingsbow, Stagville, and Agbuul rested on the landscape before them. Dotting the area around them were other smaller settlements connected by roads. Getting closer to the Dragoons the pair of Country-Guard see one of them approach them with one arm stretched out. Brynn stopped her steed then motioned for Wyllum to do the same. 

"Name, rank, profession, and branch!" the Dragoon commanded, speaking first. 

"Rosefire, Captain, former Assistant Guide, an irregular of the NG country-guard!" she said aloud raising her voice so he could hear her. Glancing at each Dragoon she noticed the caps and helmets had those black feathery plumes. Their uniforms under the duster coats held a tint of mineral alloy color. Very similar to the old Vestrisian Uniforms during the days it was a mercenary army for hire. Yet the equestrian riding boots appeared custom made with the soles of a hiking boot attached. Taking a better look at the Dragoon who halted them Brynn noticed he was tall and lean muscled. Close to 6'2 she would have to say. A half-elf like herself this Dragoon showed more of the serious elf attitude. He was most likely from Zedarkhaand. 

"Who might you be, Dragoon?" She asked him feeling a little bolder than she wanted to be for this situation. 

"2nd Lieutenant Dorhomin Kriscyne, Forward Lancer, Expert Marskman, Equestrian High Class. My Commanding Officer, Captain Hycis Gilfir sent me with a portion of our cavalry unit on a hunt for an escaped mad alchemist-necromancer from Stagville asylum-jail." Lieutenant Kriscyne answered. 

"Correctional Facility you mean." she corrected him. Most jails and prisons were converted into such facilities and asylums since the V.U.V.R. formed. As cruel as it was their governments chose to send the worst or criminals to the front against the alien invaders. This was not implemented until 1843 when the Nazdar and Gantronese sent in reinforcements. From her acquaintances in the military she heard of a invasions into Dorntalla, and Zekmar. Any thieves, burglars, and those who committed lesser crimes were used for labor. It was paid of course in coinage, clothes, food, and bedding. 

"So they are called that now." He replied coldly for a moment then returned to a more calm voice. "Who among your Country-Guard, Captain Rosefire, fired that shot?" 

Kriscyne's expression became more wide eyed and demanded an explanation. Brynn could of have sworn her heart, lungs, and uvula sank into her stomach. Wyllum probably shot someone important or a civilian out for a stroll. Looking at the youth she wanted to knock him off his horse. Her gaze returned to the Lieutenant who still glared her. Was it really that bad for Wyllum to shoot this one? Brynn was about to fess up to the accusation even if wasn't her fault when the Lieutenant pulled out a letter from his jacket. 

"Congratulations! That was him!" Lieutenant Kriscyne said smiling with his eyes for a brief moment. 

Brynn was stunned for a few moments. Did they shoot someone on the run or something? She needed a moment to process this and glanced around their surroundings. An ancient ruin wall flanked them on the left. Perched on it were a total of 13 cats blankly staring at them. Around them she heard 13 toads. On the branches of surrounding trees she saw a dozen Owls. She wasn't too fond of cats as they leave fur all over places they like to sit, even your lap. Toads were a creature she tolerated. As for Owls to her they made fine companions. Returning her attention to Lieutenant Kriscyne she took the letter from him. Opening it up it was a bounty on a Mad Man's head known as Chemist Dorsal Sadauri Ibim for 2100 Republic Eagles. That would add to their reward in the bounty for those Gnolls and Bandits. Together the bounties for the Gnolls and Bandits estimated to 2,388 Republic Eagles in terms of paper money. 

"I just shot a wanted man! That is my kill my money, hand it over! I'll-" Wyllum barked out before Brynn swatted him off his horse. Obe stood their waiting for his rider to get back up. Unfortunately for Wyllum the ground was still wet from the previous rain two days ago. 

All the Dragoons behind Lieutenant Kriscyne bellowed out with laughter. Taking another look at these Dragoons Brynn noted their weapons. Carbine Rifles, short barreled T.M. 13's, E-7 rifles, revolvers, and A-76 pistols. For melee weapons they carried or wielded sabers, lances, dirks, and batons. Brynn checked herself and her saddle. At her own side she had the clansman axe, bayonet, saber, and revolver on the right side. Her clan Dirk, rifle, and sledge mallet rested on her left side. In a bandolier holster she had the machine pistol. 

"I am sure you will get your just reward, boy. Our superiors received information of people sighting alien aircraft in this region. It occurs mostly under the darkness of midnight. That makes it harder for our aircraft to intercept. Have any of your men seen anything unusual out here?" Lt. Kriscyne asked. His eyes were on Brynn, ignoring the fallen Wyllum who was now getting up. 

Brynn's ears picked something up from their right flank. Her head shot to the right where one of the cats rushed away. The other cats already disappeared, leaving them to the company of whatever was nearby and the owls. Out of the corner of her eye Brynn saw Wyllum remount covered in mud. She would have laughed, but the noise came again louder and revealed more than one creature. Kriscyne and the other Dragoons looked up to see what the noise was. Worried these Dragoons would only overlook this she caught the Lieutenant's attention. 

"Lieutenant! Lieutenant! Did you hear that?" she asked him. Kriscyne turned his whole gaze on her. 

"Yes." He replied in a prickly voice. "It could be a herd or pack wandering around."

"Lieutenant forgive me, but that is a lie." she told him. 

"Well let me lie to my superiors about a group of thirteen Dwarf Miners nearby. They heard the shot, but I can say your men just scared them." He warned her. "Or I can lie by saying the madman is still on the loose and a Country-Guard shot a civilian out for a stroll!" 

Silence was all they could muster from their lips. Brynn knew the V.U.V.R. Dragoons did not care for the civilian soldiers. Any noncombatant that got in harms way, particularly a civilian, were on the list of priorities for them to protect. Keeping everyone safe wasn't an easy task. Whenever civilians are near scene of a crime, an attack, lair, or area of hostiles securing their safety proved difficult. Brynn was about to speak when a group of seven half nude, feral looking, 6ft tall cycloptic humanoids drooling at the mouth sprung from their hiding places. Each creature were covered in blood all over their stomach, chest, and mouths. Even their hands had blood on them. Seventeen Dragoons filled these feral creatures with holes from their pistols and carbines. These creatures' wailing, screeching like cries shook Brynn a little. Loud and bone shattering their cries were. She had to cover her ears as did Wyllum. Just because those cries were cut short did not mean the screeches left her mind. Each group waited for more to show up as ten of her own Country-Guards rode over to their location. 

Brynn turned to wave them away. None of them were needed at the moment. Sending Wyllum back with them she heard them heckling and laughing at him. She wasn't fond of being alone like this near military personnel. Brynn wasn't a soldier, not anymore. Not since they disbanded the Black Coats back in 1833. Back then she was still considered young at the age of 38. She joined at a much younger age becoming more of an adult through her experiences as a Soldier and Mercenary. Now she was just a volunteer scouring the countryside along the Zegrav-Castarian border hunting down uncivilized humanoids, outlaws, bandits, and monsters.