Mothgar year 1840-Saster's Airborne

 Above the island half called Mothgar aircraft carried a force of 5,000 airborne set to drop down on the Vullanese territory. This brigade of airborne troops was made up of humans, elves, half-goblins, Elemani, Estati, some Zedirian, half-elves, half-orcs, Sure he was an Orc, but he still showed way more civility than the savages. Orcs that became civil sought to shun out the Orcs who still clung to tribal and warlike ways. Like many civil Orcs he believed in helping others know the difference between the civil Orcs versus the savage tribal ones. His own mother believed it was too soon to show the world that Orcs could be civilized, but other family members pushed the agenda alongside thousands of other Orcs. Korog Saster proved Orcs could rise above the barbaric nature of tribalism by reaching the rank of Light Colonel. As a Light Colonel he commanded 986 out of the 5000 airborne/paratroopers now flying towards Mothgar. With 986 under his command Colonel Saster hoped to prove himself in this new war for the newly forged country. He was originally supposed to command a thousand airborne troopers, but fourteen of them bailed out due to illness, broken arm, or discharging of a weapon into their lower limbs. A few of them got into fist fights with big Forsythan volunteers. 

Saster believed 986 airborne were still enough for his first mission of this conflict. As they rode on the Big Stork aircraft he took a glance at the photograph of their intended target. Some structures needed to be seized, which were encircled by 18 connected villages. There was a fortified bunker hill near these 18 villages, which he feared would have to be seized by force. Each of their Big Stork Aircraft carried 31airborne troopers along with a crew of 4 for piloting and navigating. Saster did not know how many the Vullanese had stationed down there. His superiors gave an estimate of several thousand or more Vullanese defenders. It was an estimate he held no doubt about. Just days ago, a skirmish or two broke out along the border. Somehow the settlements along that part of the border fell under Vestrisian control. Now 17 leagues past that point 5,000 airborne were above Mothgar by 446 leagues. Each one waited for the green light to go on before they made their drops. Vullan Mothgar showed it was on alert with its AA guns, flak guns, Nazdar gifted Roper 87s, Nymresian Mobile Anti-Aircraft Tower Turrets or MAATTs, Arqolith Mechanical Ballista Dark Despenser 21s, or MBDD 21s, and the Gontrellan gifted Anti-Air Javelins. Most of the aircraft that went before the Big Storks, meaning the early versions of the Classic Boys survived the bombardment of flak, anti-air missiles, and bullets. It softened the amount of anti-air projectiles that came their way, which were still cushioned by some extra plating in the belly. Without warning the green light went on and the airborne began jumping out of their aircraft. In the dark as planned they jumped out one at a time into the night sky. Saster was the last one to jump out letting his parachute expand to cushion his landing. 

Outside the Big Storks the airborne could see the lights shining all over from the ground to pinpoint their landings. However, most of the power was knocked out leaving a dozen or so scattered lights to illuminate the night sky. Colonel Saster looked down at their target, the 18 villages with walls connecting them. Using his Orc eyesight, he could see stone walls surrounding each village. Very few guns went off in the distance as an attempt to shoot down their Big Storks. Saster felt the rush of the wind as he descended to the ground with a few score of other airborne going down near him. His ears picked up a few sirens going off further away, but below his position of landing nothing could be heard. Just the wind whistling into his ears, and the distant engines of their aircraft going southwest towards Al-Dadoria. Considering his own weight Saster was uncertain if these newly designed parachutes would be able to hold or at least settle his falling. At a weight of 186 pounds, Saster was at an average weight for an Orc. Due to advancements in health, and medicine an Orc's life span was longer than usual during this modernizing Calorn. 

All of the gear he had on him added another 150 pounds. Aside from unform, boots, underclothes, helmet, gloves jacket on his back Saster had to carry other equipment. A long thick trench knife on his leg, Onway revolver at his hip. Inside the pack dangling on his back Saster carried a musette bag with rope, standard poncho. One switchblade, cartridge belt with bayonet, canteen, first aid kit, 10 ammunition clips for his newly issued Carbine rifle, and collapsible shovel. A bandolier slung across his chest with six extra ammunition clips. A few grenades were also in the mix, shaped like pears. Saster's other gear included rations for dinner, supper, lunch, and a snack ration either chocolate, or crackers. Other parts included mess kit pan, standard cutlery, wood alcohol, circular fuel tablets, waterproof match container, life preserver in case he landed in water, extra clothing in the musette bag. Other items included a lighter, pack of tobacco rollers he was carrying for a Major as a favor, flashlight, new toothpaste, and toothbrush, Saster hated the taste of the paste they handed out to them on the base. Toothpaste, although somewhat new replaced a chewable substance that was used to clean teeth. A notepad in his pocket with a pencil for writing and sketching out small maps. Saster also carried a map of the region. Among his possessions he also carried a miniature totem depicting the emblems of the clan he hailed from. A small photograph of his own family was also among personal possessions. Hanging from his left hip was his own weapon, an Axe with a hooked beard on the blade. 

Saster landed with a slight thud, which did not break anything. Around him thirty-three other airborne landed in between the spaces within the wall barriers. He was quick to get up untangle himself from the parachute then helped other airborne with their own chutes. Wielding his carbine rifle Saster started rounding up his battalion. Inside the barriers of the walls, and between villages they found ruins. However, many there were these ruins were well camouflaged with brush, and green cloth covered in leaves, and grass. A clever trick that would not fool eyes on the ground. One youth was left guarding the ruin they found who dropped his weapon expecting to be taken prisoner. Dark haired, with signs of puberty hitting him in the worst way, this youth guarded one of nineteen other ruins. These made good use for shelter, housing, or storage. One of Saster's men knocked the youth out when he burst into tears begging the Vestrisians to let him live. Lieutenant Blackburn, not the nicest in his unit. A loudmouth, cocky, rude, son of a bitch, and disrespectful airborne of age nineteen who managed to attain Lieutenant as a rank. The airborne with the closest high rank compared to Saster was on Blackburn. Captain Gray-Spear pinned Blackburn to the ground for a few moments until someone summoned them to their location. 

A young airborne Private called Nynle Denson waved them over to one of two smithies in between three of the villages. This smith or blacksmith produced tools and some weapons. Wherever the occupant or blacksmith was Saster did not care. They could be hiding underground or in one of the nearby villages for all he cared. Using a set of whistles Saster and others summoned at least 89 other airborne to their location. Saster ordered for them to stay there for a moment before moving on. He tried picking up signs of fighting in the dark night. Nothing could be heard except sounds of dogs barking, crickets, island owls, the wind, clanging of hanging tools one of the airborne bumped into. Saster had any buildings close by checked for anyone inside. All they found were animals, more weapons, hoods, helmets, shields, a radio playing soothing music loudly, and some inhabitants. Animals included a trio of horses, a pair of donkeys, a couple of calves, one pony, five pigs, three cats. Inhabitants who had to be apprehended were some forest man, female farmer, drunk villager, the blacksmith, blacksmith apprentice, two disgruntled archers who had no time to react, visiting peasant, and a contract mason. Not taking any risks Saster's airborne knocked them out using rags dabbed with Philter of Unconsciousness aka. Invavac. Invavac was more of a medicine mixed some compounds used to ease the pain while the wounded slept as it knocked them unconscious. Laying the unconscious Vullanese in a comfortable position while having them bound Saster's unit moved away from the smithies. More airborne rallied to them from all directions increasing it to 185. His gaze went towards one of the closest villages whose walls had an unfinished portcullis under construction. A few more airborne made their way to his location in the dark. Not too far from the portcullis sat four wagon carts. 

Saster cautioned for them to approach the wagons slowly. Yet from the northwest flank of these wagons a platoon of 25 airborne rushed towards them. This little blunder triggered an ambush. Nineteen Vullanese studded foot soldiers jumped out of the wagons. Their target was the platoon of clueless airborne who tried firing on the attackers. From their back flank a crew of three Vullanese artillery crewmen revealed themselves along with a scorpion-ballista style weapon. In reaction Saster's unit opened fire on the ambush and the revealed artillery crew. Just a third of the platoon survived while the Vullanese were given no chance to live. His airborne butchered the ambushers. Leaving the corpses there, they moved any of their wounded to the safety of the smithies with a platoon to protect them. Saster's unit started to rally a few more in the dark when a series of shots rang out from all directions. He could hear at least thirteen shoot outs erupt from every direction around their location. For ten to eleven minutes these shoot outs lasted in probably a quarter of the connected villages. Another group of Vullanese came after them armed with crossbows, old style rifles such as Lever Rifles, Folteri Bolt Actions, Wind Kisser23s. Saster's unit gunned down a group of seventy-eight Vullanese defenders rushing at them from the portcullis. As more Airborne raced towards his direction and the shoot outs, Saster pushed his airborne towards the portcullis. 

Several airborne managed to open the unfinished portcullis. Entering the village Saster spotted a hanging sign that read Welcome to Sonned Village. Upon entering this Sonned Village they found a few score of airborne hiding on the rooftops of a village with a population of 847 Vullanese. Slowly these airborne climbed down to join Saster's growing group. Half a dozen airborne came out from behind an alley in the village with a burglar in tow. One of them dropped on the burglar while they were attempting to make off with some loot. They dropped the bag of loot leaving it for the locals to reclaim whatever was stolen. As his unit gathered more strength Saster could hear more shooting going on around the 18Vullanese villages. His objective was to seize and secure a bunker hill. Others were to take out artillery positions, secure some of the roads, and seize a bridge behind these villages. After rallying what had to be 500 or more Airborne Saster felt confident in pressing through the rest of the Vullanese walled settlements. To him these connected settlements made one large town seeing they were connected by walls and well paved, or cobbled roads. At one of the villages, they pushed through Saster's unit met some resistance from 223 Vullanese troopers, Militia, and guard monks. In the dark night the Vestrisian Airborne obliterated the Vullanese defenders in a village called Downhen. A swift victory came to them due superior numbers and maneuverability. Most of Saster's unit was gathered with a few units of other airborne joining them. Towards the end of Downhen they found a tower. Sensing it was armed with a machinegun and lights the airborne hugged the walls as low as possible. 

While they hunkered low the Vullanese believed they were being sneaky in an attempt to cut their forces off. Since it was dark the Vullanese could barely see much except what the streetlights illuminated. Another company sized unit of airborne were under fire while moving towards Saster's position. In a large battalion small brigade sized force, the Vullanese exposed themselves in the village he was trying to leave for the bunker. Saster knew they were trying to cut off another unit believing other Vullanese would come in from behind his location to bolster their position. His unit and others took advantage of a force of 1,790 or so Vullanese Strikers, Guards, and Militia. From the south another Vestrisian Airborne company flanked the Vullanese. It scared too many villagers as the bullets shattered windows, tore down doors, riddled walls with holes. Certain this took out most of the Vullanese force stationed in these villages Saster whistled for the rest to follow his lead towards the bunker. On the way they took out a tower manned by knights who did not really see it coming. Five of them were drunk on something believing nothing would happen or just waiting for an abrupt end to their lives. 

Not sure when dawn was approaching the enlarged Vestrisian unit pressed on towards the bunker's location. Racing through the villages at a westward course the Vestrisians bum rushed the Vullanese defenders. He could have sworn they raced through three villages in order to reach the other side. From different distances they could still hear fighting going on. Other airborne units found themselves locked in shoot outs around the villages. Saster hoped those other airborne units are successful in eliminating resistance. It sounded very scattered as they were covering a large area. After crushing a few more units of Vullanese defenders Saster's battalion made it out of the walled villages. Just outside one of those walled villages he caught glimpse of five northern style houses lining a road that veered off the main one. Built in a hexagonal shape from logs with stone, mortar in between, these northern houses came with a conical roof, and large front porches. Past these houses stood a few mounds and a hill they climbed. A few hundred Vullanese defenders lay dead on these raised mounds of earth with the river in sight. Already seized by their fellow airborne stood a short step bridge or two over a river cutting through Mothgar. This river lay behind a small town that appeared untouched. Just next to it stood a hill with a bunker on top. 

In force they moved onward with some stragglers of their own units joining in. Dawn was coming just from the east behind them. All it did was shed an orange light on the landscape revealing the dead and those alive. Thanks to the sun rising his unit got a better view of the town and what made up this town by the river. Making up this town were rows of cottages, townhouses, one barn outside it, dozens of small-town houses, a pair of large townhouses, one foolish adventurer's campsite, water mill, blacksmith's forge, Wizard's tower, two stone houses at three stories high, one ballista launcher for defense on a tower. While moving through this town Saster's airborne ran into an Ogre suffering from a case of Aggressive Cramps in his leg. Called Bloruk the Ogre showed little desire to fight them. Other Vullanese defenders showed zero desire to fight the Vestrisians. This war was only a few months old, and they already witnessed signs of giving up among Vullanese. One single group of 45 deserters threw down their weapons, leaving the area for the south. Another group of 33 Vullanese switched sides, becoming turncoats. One small battalion of 319 Vullanese showed they were too scared to fight. Saster's unit took them up as prisoners along another smaller group of 31 Vullanese defenders. Those who were taken prisoner were either wounded or found during the drop. When they passed a candy store burned to the ground an apothecary looking student raced out of the drug store. He did not seem to notice the Vestrisian Airborne as he looked too distraught over something.  Donning a brown vest over a long black buttoned up tunic, brown trousers, custom made shoes this auburn-haired apothecary student found himself captured. Too scared to call for help the youth soiled his trousers out of fear. Some of the airborne tried calming him down, but that did not work. Seeing a full-grown Orc was too much for this lad as he fainted at the sight of some half-Orcs, Saster, and some other specimens. 

Saster ordered the friendliest looking face among his ranks to care for the lad. A female half-elf named Corporal Lavander who stood a little taller than a human, brought the unconscious lad back inside the apothecary. Saster had Nynle join her in case the Vullanese hid inside the building. With the bunker not far away Saster ordered for one hundred of his airborne to rush ahead of the battalion. Under the leadership of Major Durnetze, an Elemani airborne with a birth mark on his cheek, and a scar on his forehead, the one hundred airborne raced ahead. As the dawn progressed into morning Saster's unit scoured the town finding some wounded, fellow airborne stuck in a tree, on the roof top, more Vullanese to take prisoner. Next to the church they found a lone shield tank in good condition. Three bomb craters dotted the area around it showing the bombers completely missed it. Called a Mantlet tank this one was a tank destroyer with thick armor at the front, but hardly any amor on its flanks. Wondering if there were more in the area Saster pressured a squad to search past the bunker. More fighting rose up from behind them in the distance indicating the Vullanese were waking up. 

The fear of failing to seize this hill before tomorrow gripped Colonel Saster who pushed his unit to race up the hill. He joined the mob of airborne rushing up the hill only to be greeted by an aftermath of a slaughter. A full platoon of Vestrisian Airborne lady dead at the feet of a figure in a purple long coat with silver decorative patterns along sleeves, and edges. Whoever this figure was, they appeared bloodied up from gunshot wounds. Saster's bravest airborne maneuvered around this figure as did he. Getting a better look at this figure from the front Saster noticed this figure wore a decorative mask to hide their face. Under the purple long coat, they wore a set of chain mail over regular clothing, shirt, and pants. Smooth military boots took away any mysterious elements about this figure who had two weapons at their side. A cavalry saber, and war pick lay at the figure's side coated in blood. Yet the Vullanese was unarmed before several hundred airborne on the hill. 

Acting as if the airborne were not there this fine dressed Vullanese combatant got up. Appearing oblivious to those airborne they went over the entrance of the bunker. With their head bowed low this Vullanese made their way to the bunker. For several seconds they disappeared behind the doorway only to return by some forceful push. A curved blade impaled the Vullanese from the stomach and out the back. Covered in blood the blade was ripped out with force. The well-dressed Vullanese was pushed away from the door. Being pushed backwards the Vullanese collapsed on their back before the feet of the Vestrisian. At the door stood another Vullanese in a fine long coat that was covered in splashed and smears of blood. Unlike the fallen Vullanese this one did not wear a mask. They looked down at the dead fine coated figure and spat down at their corpse. 

"I always despised the other Maesters' Kabals . Never wanted a thing to do with it. Forgive me if I trail on, Kabal-High Priest Ratiqez here, a former Exarch to the Teachings of Vullan summoned me as a Hornblower of Faith." The other Vullanese exclaimed to the Vestrisians. His messy brown hair appeared slicked back before he began fighting. Saster approached the Vullanese Kabal Warrior with his weapon trained on him. 

"Before we decide your fate, which may not mean death. What is your name, former profession, and would you prefer to stay out of this conflict?" Saster knew he was overstepping on something here. Yet he was the highest-ranking military officer in this region. The Generals, Field Marshals, Mysdrans, and the Furd Greymir himself may want him to stand down on this one or simply apprehend this Vullanese Kabal Monk Warrior. This 5'9 forearms tall Vullanese smiled at this proposal. 

"Kabal-Fist Phoebus Tritagon, former student of calisthenics, lock picking, martial arts, weaponry, religious calligraphy, linguistics, and some illusion arcane. I might as well surrender myself to you, Vestrisian. Your Zhenrai Knights would cut me to ribbons. Carry on with your mission. I shall spend the remainder of this conflict a prisoner." This Kabal-warrior replied to Colonel Saster. 

It seemed strange that a Vullanese would make not mention or comment about the various races, and hybrids among their ranks. Saster did not have time to chat or conversation. Their countries or factions were at war now. Technically they would call this a civil war between Vullan and Boathrian within the Boathrin Kingdom. In his mind he recalled the civil war occurred a while back. Ordering for Phoebus to be apprehended and taken prisoner Saster returned to their task at hand. He sent a squad of airborne to check the bunker for any survivors, or more hostiles. After this Phoebus was taken prisoner, Saster's nose finally picked up the odor that came with the dead. Looking at his dead countrymen, he noticed entrails spilled out from cuts, heads decapitated, limbs cut off, some stomachs, the yellowish layer found under the skin jutted out from the cut open wounds. He closed his eyes ordering their flag be raised over the bunk. This region was now under Vestrisian control. Saster's unit and other Airborne prowled the 18 connected villages in search of any Vullanese defenders, and resistance. 

From the comfort of a large townhouse Saster heard reports of more Vullanese defenders being found. Nearly half the population fled the moment they realized the Vestrisians took over. It clogged the bridges for some time, but they eventually got through. Outside one of the southeastern villages the airborne came across an Angry Old Wizard in hiding. They attacked both Vestrisian and Vullanese. To their misfortune the Wizard succumbed to bullet wounds until their last breath. Just southeast of their positions along the stretch of walls their forces took out 16 artillery pieces, while seizing, 14 more artillery. In some reports he learned of an alien in a green helm attacked their airborne units. It was not specified where or when. Yet it detailed what this alien wore. A green helm with a vizor, cocooned spere necklace, strange armor, seven black lighted arms with spikes protruded from the back. Whatever species or race it was, that was not necessary to know. In a few words he requested information on why other aliens were in Vullan and who did they ally themselves with. Another report on some outsider detailed a blue skinned alien gunslinger acting as a mercenary was taken as a P.O.W. None of their airborne died by that gunslinger's hands, however they did shoot at the airborne just before capture. Saster sat at a mayor's desk inside one of the townhalls two days later reading a brief statistic on the casualties over this region. Whether their enemy was KIA, MIA, or WIA it did not matter. A total of 5,998 Vullanese were lost alongside 2,092 Nymresians, Gontrellans, and Grevaskii. He was not surprised Nymres, and Gontrella sent forces to aid Vullan. Seeing Grevaskii of the Nazdar join the fight meant the Nazdar were backing the Vullanese. 

During those few days after the drop his forces rounded up some Vullanese and others. A pair of Merchants, a monk, an enslaver sorcerer now free, were discovered inside a small warehouse. Inside the same warehouse they discovered 3 Veteran infantrymen, one wolf tamer whose wolf had to be shot. Some other part of these villages detailed a discovery of 3 Satyr Vandals, one scout, a Goblin Arsonist, and 2 knights caught in a brawl with each other. One large beast tamer and breeder with reptilian appearance was discovered near a stable. A pair of female knights with attendees at a jail house where a trio of freebooters were locked up. Some pair of border Rangers were found near two separate Inns along the roads. One rare Harrier Bird Warrior thought to be extinct was discovered near a wall with shot up wings. Three more of these Harriers were discovered in different locations around the 18 villages. Each one showed signs of colliding with aircraft in the sky. Outside a Tavern on the village border a few airborne found a pair of tiger-folk almost dead from a fight. At the river two Merfolk Rogue Sea Floor stalkers were found chained up. At a former Guild Chapter House three Falconer Adepts turned soldiers who lost their Master in the battle were taken into custody. From a main Mothgar city a group of nine Mausoleum Guards and Scouts were among the defenders of these settlements. They were brought in after the Vestrisian Victory. In terms of outlaws, thugs, or criminals, the Airborne apprehended 4 intoxicated ruffians with one female marauder. 

Among these reports Saster heard of an exorcism being disrupted when a well-established exorcist was shot in the face during their duty. According to a Lieutenant who was a Police Officer in Naatidra a stray bullet went through a window, and the exorcist had his back to the window. No thanks to an airborne trooper tipping over a pitcher shaped urn. A Djinn was let loose in one of the walled in villages. That gave Saster a headache, however he was not the only Colonel in the area. Although he was a Light Colonel in rank, he still held a bit of authority over the occupied region. A fellow Colonel, Colonel Peret reported a squad of hers found 3 heavy ballista crews attempting to make the siege weapon an anti-tank weapon. Peret's airborne caught the crews by surprise forcing the Vullanese to surrender. In Peret's sector of the airborne invasion zones three sites of mutiny were reported. A battalion of 540 Vullanese chose to remove the Vullanese governor, officers, and high priest towards the west. Another site of mutiny occurred behind their drop zones at a small military base near the border. Three or four artillery crews turned their guns on their own barracks and Commander's cabin. One unit of airborne came across it while scouring the area. One surviving mutineer said they saw the planes come in, which encouraged the mutiny. As for the third one some 956 Vullanese overthrew their commanders, locked them up, took over a small city, killed the governor, mayor and priests. One leader made an attempt to create a stratocracy, which had to be aborted quickly due to infighting. 

"Colonel Saster, Sir." One of his Majors approached him at the desk. Major Honnic, an average looking Zedirian (mix of different races) with a straight nose, long face shape, Goblinoid eyes, pointy ears, almond skin. Major Honnic's body showed more human heritage with a lean physique, and 5'8 height. Saster gave the floor to Major Honnic who stood next to 6 forearms tall human with beige skin, Cropped Gold Blonde hair, fine physique named Captain Paletide. "Colonel, some of our airborne...found a territorial dire boar nearby. They um killed the beast, and are about to make it a meal." 

"How big is this beast? Before I even let you answer, one beast getting slain for food is not something I call a report. Feed it to the men as a reward. There are other reports I received from Major Pehtice, the Estati, who reported the arrest of two Goblins rummaging through a pile of belongings, one Goblin Killed by a Rogue-Assassin. Our airborne captured a Darkblade Agent, and Assassin at work. Thirty-six Vullanese Sargeant at Arms Captured or wounded in the fighting were taken in as prisoners. Some Scarab Fanatic found in a basement conducting an illegal feast. I will not give details on what was going on, but the fanatic is found guilty. For some reason these Vullanese allow the practice of Necromancy along with forced servitude of certain peoples." Mentioning the forced servitude hit a nerve among his staff. They stiffened while restraining their own anger from bursting out. Saster did not blame them. Vullan's Religion requires women, weaker males, and non-humans to become forced servants without the ownership as property. "A group of undead, zombies, had to be killed again after some Necromancers reanimated them twice!" 

"We, including the airborne were wondering if you'd like the first piece." Major Honnic responded in a concerned yet honest tone. Saster was taken aback by this. All they wanted was for him to have the first bite. Looking down at the last few reports about an ancient scarab figure from Kaniima dead lands, the adoption of two stray cats, and a pair of mucklord crocodiles found at the riverbanks. Saster took this offer with gratitude from his own airborne. He already informed high command the mission was complete who warned they have 27 Vullanese units cut off between airborne and the frontlines. Each Vullanese unit consisted of 223-250 personnel, which meant they had roughly over six thousand northeast of their positions. Yet sources also pointed out other Vullanese units were along the frontlines raising six thousand to over seventeen thousand. Vullan's half of Mothgar did not have much landmass compared to the now VUVR side of Mothgar Island. Despite the reality being sandwiched between forces at the front, forces on the other side of Graysta River this position would still fall into Vestrisian hands. Saster could not afford to let his airborne get cocky or overconfident. Other forces were still northwest and southwest of their flanks. Joining his airborne for a feast of several killed animals he found the Dire Boar was over 2000 ingots (lbs) in terms of weight. As this Orc Colonel sliced himself a piece of Boar meat from the roasting spit one of his Majors informed him of a possible counterattack from the southeast, west, and southwest.  

The Island's Maestor and Praetors rallied a force of 12,300-15,000 militia, and soldiers for this attempt. As for the forces on their southeast a brigade's worth of various humanoids that joined Vullan were on the way. With a brigade of their own, and extra battalion of paratroopers dropped in the middle afternoon, most of the locals fleeing for the southwest they prepared to defend what they gained. Seven days were spent preparing and fending off the waves of militia, devout monks, strikers, humanoid beasts, and followers. After going through the prisoners Saster, although wounded in the arm, discovered the reason behind this counterstrike. A total of twenty Vullan Churches in the region were believed to be burned or destroyed. At least one church stood in each settlement or along the river, and main road. Looking up at the sky after a four-day battle Saster caught sight of dog fights between their own aircraft against the Vullanese planes. Arrowhawks and Cloudflares engaged in an almost one-sided fight in the air. His unit watched for some time until the aircraft shot a few down, ran out of fuel then left, or gave up due to malfunctioning guns. 

Blagga

 The whole city was taken. He is surrounded by enemies of the Gantronese Empire. Over two-hundred seventy-nine rebels against Gantronese rule now encircled his hotel. He saw another force of 651 rebels surround the city hall. Azgolli city was lost. As an unattractive wizard that spelled bad news for him. Many locals in Azgolli would point fingers towards him if they haven't already ratted him out. Blagga heard the fighting intensify as Iperantosi rebels, and their allies took over the city on Gawnei Island. Desperate to preserve his work, legacy, excess, bloodline, Blagga summoned three Iperantosi Bathers, a pair of Healers, and the only female alchemist around for miles. 

Using a charm spell, and paralysis, Blagga immobilized each one. Once each one could not move Blagga prepared himself. Knowing they would be paralyzed for hours Blagga prepared himself to copulate. Quickly closed and locked the doors to his quarters. Closing his quarters off from the rest of the floor Blagga took advantage of the situation. One at a time the ugly wizard filled each Iperantosi woman with his own seed. It was after minutes of ravaging them while hearing gunshots go off below and outside. That was not all he ejaculated into their wombs. Portions of his own knowledge, powers and abilities entered with the seed. His aim was to have offspring who would carry on his work. 

Blagga raced out of the hotel through a secret passage in the walls. Just leaving those women there would keep the rebels occupied. Not stopping or slowing down the tattered shawl tunic wrapped Wizard made it out of the city. He forced himself through the Azgolli sewers to the southwest. These tunnels took him away from the invasion to a secluded cove. Getting out was what he expected from this. He avoided the rebels and their allies that took over Azgolli. What he did not expect was to find some army at this cove. A force of 1,423 blue skinned, pink skinned, red skinned, and tan skinned humanoid clones. Appearing as a copy of the same person these humanoids looked armed and ready to seize this whole island. 

Onstell

 Although he considered himself a gentleman, Captain Onstell Keivehr showed himself to be a cruel Nazdar at times. Other times he treated those inferior races with compassion. Yet his own father saw he needed to leave planet Namhok. Trouble on that green luscious fertile planet was only caused by Nazdar youth. Nazdar between the ages of thirty-three and fifty-four should serve the empire or explore the galaxy. Any Nazdar between ages of 16 and 32 were required to serve in the military or serve as guards. Onstell chose to serve and explore.  It brought him to a vast land called Vimasdra. 

He sat in an open-air speeder car with 50 Ogre Dwarves, three Goblina, and a Male Drow Rogue under his command. On a mission to clear a troll cave of lizard folk shaman pair, carion crawler inside the lost queen cafe in town, kill a necromancer, and slay goat men lurking around. Onstell brought his bunny humanoid along. She did not look acquainted with this type of event, but she had no choice. They just killed a dire wolf, three wolves close to the very cave. What they found was a beehive parallel with the cave. Holding a cracked egg in his hand, which he tossed to the ground. Onstell ordered them to storm this cave. At the cost of ten Ogre-Dwarves, he had everything slain including 6 zombies the necromancer created. Upon his orders the group moved on to the roads. 

Feeling overconfident in this small successful victory Onstell grabbed the Bunny Humanoid's leg. Wearing fine boots, and a fur dress she was forced to wear, the bunny humanoid avoided eye contact with him. Onstell rubbed, and groped her smooth brown skin. Not caring about how she felt about him somehow built-up desires in her. Deep inside Onstell thought that act was bull shit. At least go for a male who cares for you. You stubborn arrogant whore. He did not utter those words as they drove past 24 campsite wagons, two dire boars on a pair of spits, five dire bear pelts on long poles being stretched out. 

In his mind he could tell those large pelts would become part of a tent or added to the camp wagon covers. Only one of many groups in eastern Vimasdra did that, the Fire Warriors. About twenty-five members of the group lingered outside among the campsites. Barely catching a glimpse of their cloaks depicting a large red flame Onstell swore he spotted one of them dipping a blade into a fire. It was the source behind their name as fire warriors. His own mission was now complete, nothing else mattered. Even if these tribal peoples wanted to fight their new overlords. Pressing onward the Nazdar Captain forced the unit to follow by foot. The driver drove past the encampments towards a windmill where three elf humanoids stood. In Grevaskii uniforms these elves prepared to shoot at something. 

Thirty-five feet away from the elves, Onstell spotted seventeen flying monkey Imp Demons, twelve black wolves not seen for centuries according to locals. Twenty-nine of the Monkey Imp creatures mounted themselves on the shoulders of twenty-seven stacked females of different races. All the imps on their shoulders humped their faces while the wolves did them from behind on the ground. Each woman was nude, exposed to the elements and endured undesired attention. Knowing this could come back to haunt the rest of the Nazdar forged Empire Onstell chose not to intervene. Instead, he ensured neither woman would be shot for please or for sport. Rather than intervening himself, he waved for the Grevaskii to shoot the monkey imps if they pleased. Onstell watched the winged vermin fly away from the victims. It was not out of the goodness of his heart, no, it was merely to maintain a sense of peace and order in Vimasdra. Putting these vermin in their place alongside everyone else was key. 

Hoffee of Redrin Republic

 Under the main Iperantosi bridge sailed the V.U.V.R. made battleship, Dragon Prize. Captained by Navelius Swordlift, a half elf who ordered a Lieutenant to keep track of casualties from months long battle over these islands. He could have sworn more ships joined in this invasion of the Gantronese occupied Island nation. For Captain Swordlift, Lieutenant Hoffee checked on the casualties from the Iperantosi Invasion and Campaign. Since it was a military operation involving a coalition, records on casualties included of any coalition members. In total casualties rose up to thirty thousand personnel, rebels, volunteers, and exiles. Unsure of casualties on Vestrisian records Hoffee chose to check that later. For his home nation, Redrin Republic, casualties rose to one hundred sixty-one Redrin Guards, ten Veteran Grand Marines, two aircraft, six pilots. Under Redrin casualties he found casualties for Alagen, which went up to 751 killed in action and wounded. That included a loss of 6 tanks, 3 modified vehicles, thirteen light tanks, 17 planes, 900 wounded. For the island state of Lybris he typed up 979 personnel killed, 1,400 wounded. Vehicle losses consisted of eight tanks, nine aircraft, two half-tracks, and seven new gunships. Gunships were a new creation with a propellor on top. 

Meze lost seven hundred thirty-six personnel, one steel sloop, and three new tank walkers in action. Ivodra Isle suffered a loss of 3,541 personnel, soldiers, knights, troopers, grunts, and a single blue elf sniper. They lost eleven tanks, nine jeeps, three hundred seventy-three other vehicles, 61 aircraft, three small battleships, and four L.O.W.D.S.H.Ts. Rovantia lost 151 Peace Enforcers, one hundred seventy-one Jaguar Rifles, 5 tanks, 5 jeeps, 5 Armored Personnel Carrier prototypes. Their contribution may appear small, but it proved effective. Evusian Rulers begrudgingly handed troops to the cause. For them, casualties rose to a total loss of 1,546 personnel. These losses were elites, troopers, Knights, and star mages whose remaining comrades took an island and held firm. Tante, the multi-island Republic sent forces as well, revealing the neutral states could not stay out for long. Their losses concluded 427 personnel, 23 tanks, 9 armored cars, 25 Royal Ivory Troops, 5 aircraft, one battle frigate. Malvieth Island reported a loss of 419 Rangers, Clerics, Paladins, killed in action. More than 217 hovercrafts were lost in this campaign. 

Other nations were involved in this campaign due to a loose alliance called the Calornese Alliance. Nevoran Federation forces lost over 180 of their Shock Infantry, 4 paratroopers, an enchantress caught in the crossfire. Nations on the other side of the world such as Azul, and Zaul also sent their support. Hoffee typed up what was scribbled down in terms of those KIA. He would add the wounded, but that was a different category of casualties. Many wounded could get mixed with the deceased on paper. Zaul lost ten Marines, three steam walkers in the mud, 3 aircraft, all 6 of the mech tanks they sent, and six out of eight gunships.  There were also 25 troopers dead, 5 Death Lords, a Gun witch, and 2 war gentlemen. As for Azul 154 Dwarfs died in the first counterattack, and just three tanks lost out of thirteen. The other nations involved saw an inclusion of 2,164 KIA in grunts, and infantry. This included 60 engineers, 55 frontiersmen, 55 Spenos Marines, and 44 tanks. 

Looking down at a list of exiles and rebel factions, he took a sip of his now cold coffee. Iperantosi rebels lost between 4,191-5,740 willing combatants who either returned for vengeance or rose up against their overlords. Other Iperantosi exiles included 208 rebels, 27 Freedom Guards, ninety-one Iperantosi Freedom Archers. In terms of vehicles these determined rebels lost three Gantronese stolen gunships, five tanks, fifty-one jeeps, sixteen APCs. Syrianos Exiles joined in the hopes of drawing attention towards freeing their homeland. Some force of 363 Syrianosi died alongside more than twelve hundred half-demons. Vehicle losses included 55 aircraft, three automobiles brought for show, 144 modified cars, and 108 gunboats sunk at the front of the counterattack. Hoffee realized the remaining force of eighteen thousand would back away seeking help elsewhere. Could they afford this? Hoffee wasn't sure about that. it was not his call. Any of the Syrianos exiled forces could seek help from others such as the Nevoran Federation or the larger kingdoms on the other side of Calorn. 

Letting thousands of volunteers to fight wasn't his call either. Gaining volunteers was a nice gesture of non-soldiers aiding this operation. Yet the lack of or minimal training forced the soldiers to become babysitters. However, the whole lot they received had some combat experience. Thirty-three Tribal warriors from Oceanrest Var joined them, armed with Gantronese made rifles. One group called the Berserkers of Ossus went turncoat on the Nazdar then sent 80 of their own here. About seventy-five veterans from Alagen, and Lybris volunteered alongside 171 Nahemine Black Guards, 140 Meze Militia, 157 ex sentinels from Ivodra, 146 Nahemine cavalry, 109 crossbowmen from Ruhonthra, and 220 Meze Camel Riders. Volunteers also came from Evusia and Redrin seeking action and a sense of duty. Close to Seventy knights from Evusia, five hundred Bone Guards joined this fight over Iperantosi. From other places such as Nevora they received 83 swashbucklers avoiding execution, 168 Paladin from five different countries in Nevora, and about three hundred armed missionaries. 

Other groups of volunteers included 264 Zema Ilam, 128 Gladiators seeking greater glory, 161 local heroes and champions, 52 Enchanter Mages, 247 of a Warlord's men, 12 Brothers of some Ancient Order, 214 pirates they freed, 135 Iperantosi war priests who were freed or returned. Twenty-nine volunteer scouts taken prisoner, killed or drowned or went missing. As he finished typing the casualties Hoffee typed underneath the statistics "all combatants in these groups or units are KIA there deceased" as of 1844 late winter early spring. Hoffee ripped the last typed up page of the ay from the typewriter's carriage. Placing the paper with the other documents Lieutenant Hoffee got up from his desk. He carefully placed them in a folder before taking the Captain's Cabin. Hoffee knew some of these volunteers and personnel since childhood. It weighed his heart down just realizing they were gone. He was lucky none of the crew saw him weep at the captain's quarters as he set the folder down. 

Wandering the ship was more of his thing. Hoffee despised sitting down for long periods of time. He passed the likes of Saudari, Dawudin, Vygoon, Tulun, Ulrich, Greenworn, Miguell, Wolfgang, and Nasiim, some of the crew. Seaman, Seaman Apprentice, Petty Officer, Ensign, Engineer, Storage Keeper were their ranks and jobs aboard this ship of the Redrin Republic. Before they started to salute his rank, the group muttered something about cargo they unloaded yesterday. For those Iperantosi Rebels, their country gave them 373 Assault Rifles (early versions) for defense. Two find Patrol Motorboats to assemble went with this cargo. Three Heavy AA transporters were also gifted from Redrin. Those were not the only gift to the Iperantosi Rebels. 

Petty Officer Wolfgang mentioned an armored car from Evusia. Twenty-one working Nazdar tanks were the mix for these Iperantosi along with alien tank-treaded vehicles. As he moved through the ship, he recalled five stolen tanks being handed to these rebels. From his Captain's lips, Hoffee learned of other vehicles and weapons sent to Iperantosi Isles. Thousands of guns, Armored Vehicles from Nahem, construction equipment, 11 artillery pieces were also left for the Iperantosi's use. 

On board a battleship made in Vestrisian dock/shipyards of Castaria, Hoffee was one of the 662 crewmates. Captain Navelius Eve Swordlift commanded the same crew for nine years. Some retired over the course of those nine years, scores died in battle, a dozen were taken by disease, leaving them at 662 Redrin to sail a new gift from the V.U.V.R. The Dragon's Prize was a new addition to the Redrin Fleet. Able to house over nine hundred sailors the small Battleship was armed with four turrets with four barrels, 10 AA guns, 20 machineguns, 6 swivel, grappling hook guns. Between 610-700 fore arm's length, displacement of 33, 811 tons, sails at 33 knots. Hoffee made his way to the outer deck for a better view outside. Exiting a door at the base of the first double barrel turret, Hoffee came outside. 

Dragon's Prize slowly made her way past the bridge. The Lieutenant observed the surroundings. Islands could be seen to the south, west and east with more islands north of their position. He saw a hand full of ships sailing in the similar course as them. Hoffee could have sworn more ships joined them in the invasion more ships joined them in the invasion of the Iperantosi. Feeling the sea winds hit his face, Hoffee felt ready to explore these islands. Aside from 662 able bodied sailors this battleship still housed extra passengers. 

In case they entered close combat or needed landing parties the ship housed troops and armed personnel. One squad of 18 marines, 4 Evusian Rangers, 12 Evusian marines, 6 Redrin Elite troops, 7 Marines from Alagen, 12 Elite troops from Ruhonthra sent to help them along. Other military personnel included 4 scuba divers, 4 special force troopers from Rovantia, 3 marines from Malvieth, one marksman, 15 Spec troopers, marines, and soldiers from Meze. Three individuals joined the ship's passengers. One military marine biological chemical specialist from Lybris Isle, one Vestrisian trooper with Zhenrai I.D., and a female gunslinger. Noncombatant passengers included an alchemist, 3 Gnome mechanics, cameraman, Doomsday Weapons expert, scientist, female journalist with student, a marine biologist, Doctor, and a photographer. Redrin's Navy was small but managed to keep its independence. A total of 50 islands of the Redrin Republic are home to eight races. Mostly inhabited by homes Redrin is also home to Goblins, Elves, Gnomes, Orcs, Dwarves, Zunia-Pucks, Gnolls, who somehow lived in harmony. If it was harmony then it was a forced one due to common enemies, and the desire to have a free Redrin. Centuries ago, these races were either at war with one another all over Calorn, distrustful of outsiders, extremely hostile, very exclusive or full of dominance. Hoffee was certain those sentiments were millennia ago. 

Strolling along the portside Lieutenant Hoffee had one of the islands whose female inhabitants left in his view. Although temporary, the abduction of the settlement's women was resolved by the Vestrisians with outside aid and cooperation. Beyond the starboard side lay two islands a Vestrisians unit crossed to hunt down some Hag called Tearwallow. As he passed an AA shielded turret the name Tearwallow came to mind along with two crewmembers. In the shadows he spotted a pair of female crewmates. One female sat on her knees as the other one faced her rubbing her scalp. Seaman Gream was getting sucked on by recruit Mikka who sucked and slurped hungrily on Gream. Hoffee stopped to see if the sailors would acknowledge his presence. Personally, Hoffee held nothing against she males in the service. He just wished there was a way to get their stuff together. At times he would get aroused, but he forced himself to control certain urges. It seems that Petty Officer Gream failed to control her urges. The same could be said for Mikkah. Sure, she was a pretty petite curvy thing. Yet she had duties to attend to. Gream shoved herself down Mikkah's throat flexing her cheeks. 

"Are we enjoying the sunny weather offered by Iperantosi?" Hoffee asked scaring both women. One of them may have a whopper but that did not bolster her nerves enough from getting startled. Both straightened up at attention scrambling to readjust their uniforms. Recruit Mikkah swallowed and gulped down whatever filled her cheeks. She wiped away the sticky liquid dripping from her lips. 

"Petty Officer Gream tuck in your musket, properly or it gets rusty. You will get plenty of time to fool around once we return home." He commanded the Petty Officer who pulled herself together in the process of redressing herself. They were still female, but on this ship, he held the higher rank. "Recruit Mikkah go see the ship doctor at once. Pull yourself together for this mission. Now carry on working, Petty Officer Gream." 

Hoffee pressed on towards the bow the ship. He came across a Gnoll sailor called Kriak Pest bolt the Harpoonist of the ship. Another Gnoll sailor appeared into view. Seaman Gex Clayfangs, who looked more like an overgrown badger with a hyena mane, made quick conversation with Kriak. Both Gnolls straightened at attention saluting the Lieutenant as he passed them. Hoffee saluted back as he made his way to the bow. Several crew members were found cleaning, reassembling turrets, mounted machineguns, and reloading each weapon. A few anti-torpedo barrels, and magnet stars were checked upon and scrubbed clean. This ship did possess torpedoes, but those were few in terms of availability on board. 

Getting a better look at the sea to the west of the Iperantosi Isles Hoffee spied a few other vessels. Four other ships formed a fleet with the same class and design. None were as a big as a battleship. The Geosgaeno 125 type, a ship slightly smaller than a destroyer, acted as an escort and attack ship. Resembling the shape of a fat hipped brigantine, and snake head, the Geosgaena fought with 4 single barrel turrets, 5 AA guns, 7 torpedoes, 10 MGs, depth charges, and a single mortar. Crewed by 316-326 sailors each of these Geosgaeno 125s accompanying Dragon's Prize were named as follows Oswego, Baddeck, Halstar, Aquilon. 

Under the command of Redrin's Admiral Evoge sailed a sixth ship of the fleet called Blackpool. This one held different weaponry for armaments. No more than eighteen aircraft sat on the carrier's interior platform for protection. The Blackpool acted more like an escort carrier whose 18 Aclyone 625s went ahead of a fleet as a reconnaissance, and for preemptive strikes. A crew of 791 sailors, 36 pilots, 10 divers operated the workings of the carrier. Just looking at the ships reminded him of a few trinkets other sailors gave him. A skull pendant of onyx on black iron hung around his neck. One gift he received from a loner was a ring with powers. Another gift was a white gold illusionist wedding bracelet. It came from a Mage in Practice who said the ring lost its powers after remolding. Stuffed in some pocket Hoffee possessed a treasure map to some islands. 

He fingered two gold symbol pendants from Gora-Via when a hot air balloon started to pump on the carrier. Watching it was a spectacle since it was a newly modified one and mechanized. The sight for him ended as an Ensign approached him. In somewhat decorative dark pink uniform, once a two-year Warrant Officer, Edatim Evaltree seemed bored. Their sun browned skin tone still could not hide their boredom of this errand. Sent on behalf of the Captain, Evaltree retrieved the Lieutenant. Hoffee followed the newly promoted Ensign who became the valet errand officer for the captain. This Ensign looking out of the place in this uniform. The dark-skinned human with brown hair could pass for a Badraani or a Zegrav. Being taken to the bridge of the ship, Hoffee passed other crew members from fellow humans, to Orcs, Goblins, half elves, a few dark elves, half goblins, and Gnolls. All of them were in uniform working to keep the ship operational, and clean. It was a steel vessel, but the engines, propellers, and generators still needed some manual help. Out on deck the crews cleaned the arsenal, collected shells, removed duds, greased weapons, untangled ropes, kept creatures away from the hull, and reduced cloggage. Others kept the antenna working and protected from the sea birds. Their big guns also needed cleaning after use. Just two days ago their fleet engaged a Koriv style ironclad Esprizo Shark. Hiding out in one main island's lagoon this ironclad only startled them. It went after the Geosgaeno 125, Oswego only to be peppered with shells. To the crew it was a mercy killing as one of the castaways they picked up revealed they were starving and riddled with disease. 

At the ship's bridge they found Captain Swordlift, 9 other crewmembers navigating the ship. The bridge and pilot house were connected into a one room structure. A little easier to move around with plenty of room. The floor appeared rough with a new rubbery matt that covered most of the room. Having this matt helped reduced sliding during heavy rain fall or storms that came their way. Each crew member inside manned a station while Captain Swordlift sat in a stool chair, the captain's seat. Behind her sat three women bound, gagged, and lined up against the wall. 

"Lieutenant Hoffee, glad you can join us on the bridge. Have you completed the documents I gave you?" Captain Swordlift greeted him. His gaze did not leave the three bound women. 

"I'll ask you one more time. Who is your Master? Who do you work for?" Captain Swordlift demanded from the three captives. If this were some cliche comic, broadcast tale or play Swordlift would be a villainess according to some script. In her attire of a green doublet tunic over beige dyed khaki trousers, red dyed leather boots, she hardly looked the villainous part. At her hip hung a curved short sword. At her breast pocket she wore a pistol. 

One of the women, a Cyan tattooed, tan skinned elf tried to speak in their language. It sounded broken, but she uttered I.B.O.I.S., something he never heard of until now. Captain Swordlift attempted to verbally pry out a second elbowed her hard. A dark elf with white reddish in a set of explorer's jumpsuits hissed for her to shut it. The third one was a green skinned humanoid in a stolen Gantronese uniform that appeared to be two pieces. Each looked like a typical heroine in comic book series. Their Cyan tattooed friends wore a revealing jumpsuit due to rips, tears, and low zipper. One of her breasts nearly popped out. It would become a distraction quickly as it caused Hoffee's aroused state. He kept his urges under control. Swordlift was about to ask another question when Lieutenant in Training Former Baron's Son, Archie Grayskullkin appeared in the door. A tall auburn haired young man of twenty-three, Archie held a thin diamond faced with a lean body in the typical naval officer's light khaki uniform. His gaze transfixed on Captain Swordlift. 

"Captain, the Admiral found something just ahead of our fleet." Lieutenant Grayskullkin reporte with a straightened posture and salute to the higher rank. 

"How far away Lieutenant?" Swordlift commanded an answer from him. They young Lieutenant's eyes found the bound women. Wide eyed, amazed expression were slapped onto his face. 

"Lieutenant! How far away?" Swordlift demanded taking her eyes off the women. 

"An islet or so sixty-one to eighty-four leagues away, Captain Swordlift." Grayskullkin responded. 

"Thank you, Lieutenant in Training. Take these prisoners back to their quarters in the brig." Swordlift ordered him. "Lieutenant Hoffee gather a landing party and await further orders." 

"Yes Captain I will prepare two squads." Hoffee replied to his Captain. Leaving the ship bridge made him feel forced to give Archie over to the mercy of angry spies, or stowaways. It was not clear who these women were or what they were capable of. Hoffee moved towards the bow of the battleship again while the IBOIS revelation circled in his mind. 

Now on the starboard side of the Dragon's Prize he caught a better sight of the Geosgaeno 125 craft. Two Geosgaenos flanked their battleship while the carrier sailed ahead of the small Redrin Republic Fleet. Other ships were spotted with their fleet. Five other vessels joined Redrin's six ship fleet. One steel frigate from Lybris, a pair of destroyers from Vestrisia, a single sloop from Alagen, and a combat corvette from Tittania. Tittania was a city-state island close to the borders of the V.U.V.R. whose men serve in the land-based military while the women serve in the Navy. Its name did strike people as a referral to tits. That was due to the number of unmarried women serving in Tittania's new navy. He stopped at the bow seeing other ships sail past each other. Fisher boats, crabbers, ferries, coastguards on patrol, cargo ships bringing in tradeable goods, food, passengers, equipment, and weapons. 

Several sailors of his own crew laid about nearby only get barked at by Ensign Mortician McFelner. Although he hailed from an area that is now part of the V.U.V.R. McFelner signed on as a citizen of Redrin Republic. In his Celic clansman accent he barked at three sailors who were likely instructed by Petty Officer Sharpell to fix something. he mentioned a disease called "fisherman's Irritation". A disease known across the sea for eight centuries caused by prolonged exposure in certain parts of the southern oceans. Hoffee did not know which parts, but he heard that ten hours of exposure could attract bacteria that creates inflammation on the limbs. 

Not even bothering to check the Ensign's duties Hoffee returned below deck. Heading straight for the quarters Hoffee hoped to find any sailors available. Particularly the ones who knew how to shoot and fight in melee combat. He knew the leader of Redrin's Marine squad, Seer Lieutenant Maroon wanted to stretch his legs. In total, Lieutenant Maroon commanded twenty-four to forty under his command. Their Evusian neighbors sent them a dozen of their own Marines to command. Hoffee found at least a twenty-five-man platoon with the others who tagged along. Others were left behind to defend the ship. 

"Admiral Evoge has found an islet or more leagues from our current position." He informed the troops, marines, and Rangers on board. 

Seer Maroon, an Alagen Sergeant, Ruhonthran Rusher (Lieutenant/Captain) stoop up. All threeof them offered their units to commit to this mission for Admiral Egove. Hoffee was taken aback from gaining forty-two personnel for a landing party. Four hours passed before that were called to search the first islet. A party of forty-three armed themselves with a variety of weapons. Submachinegun18s from the V.U.V.R., E-6 repeaters, Onway revolvers, T.M. 13 rifles, 4 hand shotguns, Bakshin Carbines, Defiling Shade Rifles. These seven types of weapons served Redrin, Alagen, Ruhonthra, and Evusia well. Almost overstocking on ammo and necessary provisions Hoffee's platoon loaded the landing craft. Blow up craft that did not need pumping since air flowed inside through an opening served their needs. 

Hoffee looked up at the sky as they propelled towards their first islet, west of Iperantosi's main islands. First checking the map protected by two acrylic sheets that can be rolled up like paper, Hoffee found this islet. Although in Gantronese lettering he still translated in his mind. Known as Kisamajon this islet held the appearance of an eagle's talon. four other islands rested to the west with signs of ancient alien metal structures left behind. Its shape gave Kisamajon four handless arms. Since it was more of a talon shape Hoffee might as well say it possessed four claws. Looking up from the map he saw their progress towards this islet with others appearing in sight. Kisamajon had a few rocky parts, a dead crumbled down volcano, plenty of foliage, two arms mainly sand with rocks and trees. His gathered unit landed on the closest arm. A small hut and tent were set up by someone on this part of the islet. Two attempts for a fire could be seen between the structures. On the sandy beach arm lay a figure clad in dirty yellow clothes. When they drew closer Hoffee noticed it was an alien dressed as a city pimp. Unnecessary go between to get a companion for the night. 

Hoffee never trusted Pimps anywhere. Even if a woman chose to give her body to the night, she should not require a go between like a pimp. He heard pimp's offered protection, but who would keep the pimps in line. It did not matter here since that pimp lay lifeless. Checking the corpse, the Marines discovered this pimp was full of puncture, and stab wounds. Hoffee sent the Rangers with four Marines to check the rest of the islet. Half an hour went by before they returned with company. A pair of IGC troopers and three apprehended pirates joined them. The only reasons he recognized the IGC troopers was all thanks to V.U.V.R.s Admiral Kezef and an expedition that entered these southern islands. He saw plenty of photographs that were quickly produced. Pieces of their alien armor were missing. Very similar to armor on Calorn the IGC trooper's armor appeared green, tan, brown, sand, or camouflage in color. Some pieces went around forearms, arms, legs, and neck with a latch to keep it on. Only one still had their helmet on. A rounded helm with a barbuda style face guard. A thick orange glass like vizor went over the face. 

Their names were Corporal Gimma, and Private Lukkos. Part of an Intergalactic alliance force sent here. Lieutenant Hoffee was about to introduce an offer to them when another craft approached their position. A VUVR style patrol boat called the Hippocamp94 flying an Iperantosi Flag approached them. Manned by eighteen Iperantosi in old style VUVR uniforms the patrol boat hailed the allies. In a Phiox language the Iperantosi offered to take the IGC troopers and pirates off their hands. Both IGC insisted they stay with Hoffee's platoon. With little knowledge of these waters Hoffee accepted these two into his combined force. Leaving Kisamajon and the three pirates into Iperantosi Hands Hoffee contacted Captain Swordlift. She allowed Gimma, and Lukkos to join their party. Through Hofee's lips she learned of what happened, the dead pimp alien, and a dead woman from Gimma's own account. 

Captain Swordlift ordered for Hoffee to head for the next islet closest to Kisamajon. The rest of the fleet encircled part of the islets as Hoffee rode to his next target. Southwest of the Kisamajon lay the islet of Grambosi, which he only glanced at it on the map. Barely looking up from his map Hoffee got a look at this islet itself. Being in charge of this operation for Captain Swordlift, Lieutenant Hofee had 6 members stay while he led the rest on the islet. Slightly bigger or double the size of Kisamajon, Gambrosi held nineteen alien structures he glimpsed on the first islet. Sai to be built centuries ago in various shapes and sizes these metal structures showed signs of being rust resistant. This seemed strange for metal to behave like this. 

The first inhabitant of this islet to greet them was a beastly chunky draconic humanoid with a shell on its back with rock, earth like skin tone. It only threw a rock at them hitting Sergeant Phaner of the Alagen Marines in the stomach. Everyone else opened fire on the large beast. All the noise scared a dire warthog that died in the crossfire. One large elephant from Talus roamed this islet with shackles on its foot. It went the opposite direction. How it got here it was anyone's guess. Hoffee barely caught a glimpse of a certain symbol on its side when a piranha angler mutant, mantuary mutant, an upright reptilian humanoid with blades on arms, head, tail end, and a golden horse mutant charged at them. Armed with guns Hoffee's unit opened fire on these four alien mutations. Just the mantuary appeared unprotected while the other three wore body armor that did protect most of the body. Bullets hit limbs, the earth, some structures, and unprotected heads. It put an end to the attempt on their lives. Hoffee could not say the party's nerves held together so easily inside. One of his own peed herself when the monsters attacked. So did an Alagen. Another tried controlling his shaky body. 

He sent both back to the craft only get a good look at a strange phoenix-parrot that flew away from the islet. On one of the dome shaped structures an orthoconoid mutant clung to the roof with its tentacles. It eyed them for a moment until a blue, white striped frog mutant hopped out of a different structure. It also eyed them with ferocity in its large amphibious eyes.  Gimma and Lukkos let loose a hail of gunfire on the amphibian mutant calling it a filthy Drogviek. Another group of mutants rushed out of five truncated cone structures. One black striped humanoid, a horned bear dog, Black demon, Black snake man, octopoid, crazy duck man, snake lady, minotaur, and red cat bring came after them as one. Whoever was watching or supposed to look out failed that task. Armed with staff mace, throwing axes, lance, javelins, gladius short blade, 6 daggers, halberd, hammer pick, old crusader sword, scimitar, and claws they appeared outmatched against firearms. That fact did not stop them from attacking any ways. One javelin nicked a marine in the leg, and an axe found its way in Lukkos' shoulder blade. Hoffee watched Private Paunchy tend to the wound despite the amount of protection Lukkos had. His eyes spotted the octopoid clinging to the roof. Grabbing his own rifle, he shot it off the roof before checking the rest of the islet. As for the rest of the attackers, their lives were cut short by the rest of the unit. 

Inside these structures that formed a small enclave is unit found a group of IGC troopers being held captive. Missing pieces of armor, signs of beatings on the prisoners could be seen. Gimma had to identify three Orbital Ranger Troopers, and two Lightning IGC troopers Hoffee left the IGC troopers to readjust themselves before returning to their war with the other invaders. Checking the rest of Gambrosi Hoffee found an Orc crocodile species on the beach, 7 dead IGC troopers, spell scrolls inside one structure, mage's robe of green, weapons, repair tools, armor, old bones of ancient being on display, mechanical grabbers, and a Mammoth Skull. Hoffee's platoon also discovered more inside but could finish the notes. An aircraft or warplane of some sort flew over the islet. Taking a good look at this flying craft Hoffee surmised it belonged to none of the factions he knew about. Resembling the shape of a neck ring worn by slaves or prisoners before slavery was outlawed a fourth time ten centuries ago. It appeared much thicker, prettier, in shape and designed with four sets of barrels. It fired from eight guns, one hole rested in its center, with an engine in the back this aircraft had a cockpit in front of the main engines. As it swooped towards them it opened fire a few times. Forced to drop to the ground they did not see it shot down by their own aircraft and AA guns. 

All they had time for was getting to the next islet called Condergo or at least prepare for the others. Captain Swordlift ordered them to stay put until the next morning. Hoffee set out with 40 men plus 3 able bodied IGC to Condergo. An islet directly west of Gambrosi called Conergo appeared larger and home to a jungle full of life. Ocelots, Tapirs, lizards, deer, various exotic birds, mutated eagle-hawks, annoying seagulls, alligators roaming around. With no hostiles found Hoffee's unit did find a base in the jungle. Thanks to Gimma's radio comm inside his helmet they found four Jungle Troopers of the IGC who took the islet twelve days ago. Somewhere locked up inside the base was an ancient Forsythan armor. It seemed like a discovery historians, archaeologists, and scientists would love to find. 

According to one of the camouflaged troopers the Order of the Beast, and some random elf knight went after this armor. Made from a different alloy no one could name this armor held a unique appearance This Forsythan armor held the symbol of a Wolf's paw encircled by an otter. Lieutenant Hoffee knew of a Zhenrai Order who would want this in their possession, especially those in the mainland of Vestrisia. Locking it back up he addressed Captain Swordlift about their discovery. Eager to get off this islet the four IGC Jungle troopers joined his unit to the closest four islets and island platform. Conderoga lay directly south of Condergo with a rocky shape of a letter e in capitol form. Just the same or more structures, foliage, wildlife. Three hair humanoids, a Centauric humanoid, and 6 armored rat folk were the only hostiles they cleared out. 

Dealing with the ten hostiles on Condergo they went on to Ongeroge, a hill mound sized islet. Behind this islet sat an anchored three masted brig. Whoever brought this over installed a propeller motor called a ship miron. Hoffee heard plenty of ships were modified since money could still be made using such old craft. As outdated as it seemed these vessels were used between islands or islands to mainland. Long distance trade required modern craft to cover more leagues in a short amount of time. Crewed by a mixture of Elves, Goblins, Orcs, Apemen, and various hybrids, this Brig carried illegal cargo. Illegal cargo included certain alcoholic brews, drugs that cause eyes to fall out, bleeding through pores, and body parts in strange liquid for preservation. Other cargo on board included spices, salts, wool, sugar, leather, silk, tools, antlers, tusks, and poisonous fruits used in makeup. Captain Swordlifthad no time to deal with all of that contraband aboard the oversized Brig. She sent Lieutenant Hoffee documents with a Free Calornese stamp that allowed them to sell the cargo in the free neutral ports. 

Returning to the mission at hand he discovered their Admiral commanded other units to occupy specific islets. The next islet for them was known as Chakwe held the shape of a flower according to the Gantronese map. His unit of now 47 landed on the island in a hesitant manner. Whatever the Vestrisians and IGC faced in these platform seas was likely worse than their current experience in this part of the world. Out of a patch of jungle five half-Ogre men attacked with makeshift weaponry. Two projectiles flew from an Ogre's thrust. One hit the ground as the second one hit a Marine in the side. In retaliation they fired on these Ogres who barely wore much protection. Looking back behind them Lieutenant Hoffee thought of the 416 Marines, soldiers, and volunteers occupying these islets. Were they up to the challenge of defending these islands from more aliens worse than their main Gantronese enemy? 

Chawkii was the next islet. An islet that appeared part of an arch which held numerous alien structures left there. With one less marine on board made the boats less crowded. Yet the way they were taken out was eye opening. Upon landing onto Chawkii they found a wandering knight locked in a confrontation with a Gold-Black spotted cat folk duelist. Their confrontation turned into a duel on the beach. Hoffee's unit chose to watch rather than intervene. An atmosphere of intrigue overwhelmed everyone else. Armed with a Fauchard the knight pressed the advance several times then dodged, parried, stepped aside, withdrew, side swiped an attempt at his flank. 

Someone asked for popcorn only realizing no one had it on hand. They all watched this wandering knight take down the cat folk duelist. Donned in a studded plated armorelette, chain link greaves, great helm, this Knight took what he wanted. Hoffee sort of recognized the style of this armorelette that was now rare during this modern era. It was difficult pinpointing where he first heard about it. He bowed his head to the party of marines, and Rangers then returned to his own place on Chawkii. Most of them cheered and applauded the Knight's victory. Once they finally set foot on the sands the island gave off an ominous feeling mixed with something positive about it. Several minutes or more walking along the beach brought them to a torpedo boat run aground. Whoever it belonged to it did not matter. It was an empty find except for a parasite filled Grogge boat. 

Lieutenant Hoffee ordered for the Grogge destroyed in a quick manner. With as little exposure as possible. One barrel was emptied then filled any dry materials they could burn. Using two poles they lifted the grogge up then dumped it into the flames. This action performed by them to get rid of the parasites caught the attention of a lone Forysthan Ranger. Although they saw male ones from Vestrisia or Grussia, this one appeared female. Long hair, long face, two scars on the chin, the smooth knobbed nose, tall yet a little curvy. She had more of a lean muscular built under the leathery, hide outfit mixed with a Gantronese fatigue uniform. 

"I am Erog Gore or Roga-Tori Dawnrage. One of probably multiple lone Forsythan Rangers who chose to come down here." She introduced herself to them. 

"Why are you here and what country are from?" Lieutenant Hoffee asked this lone Ranger. 

"I was sent here by my guild in Grussia-Eoth. Originally my home country is Vunnace. As three allied nations working together, they sent fifteen Rangers, Fifteen Uxane Prowlers, twenty-three knights, eleven Koriv Ascetics. We were searching for a certain relic until my expedition died out." She explained Lieutenant Hoffee. 

"Is that abandoned torpedo boat yours?" He asked the Lone Forsythan Ranger. 

"One of six vessels that were sent with us. Only one remains afloat." she answered Hoffee. 

"Then join us and we shall see you back home." Hoffee replied attempting to end the conversation. It seemed rude, but they were in a hurry. 

For the rest of the day Hoffee's mixed platoon returned to the torpedo boat to the waters. When they got it working the platoon went ahead to their next destinations. Islets called Dorgot, Jarpi, Gildan, and Agored were the last four islets Hoffee was sent to before returning. Dorgot appeared the largest of the four with enough jungle, a single mound, beaches, other vegetation. It sprawled with wildlife that stayed clear of a Gantronese outpost. One score of Gantronese graves were found nearby with helmets and skulls acting as tombstones. Occupying the abandoned outpost was some Angel Metatron Katana wielder. Hoffee had no time for their backstory he offered for them to join them or to stay put. Receiving their name as Seraph Manthing-Mouthing, Lieutenant Hoffee left them there with a warning about more coming. Jarpi did not hold much discernable shape. It did have a rockier volcanic surface. Several mounds hid a large village of some sort. Their first encounter was one eyed Dwarf Goblin Warrior taking down scores of corpses for burial. Known as Doratac Runesword, the Dwarf accepted their help in the burials. Much of Jarpi's land mass made for poor ground to bury much. Shallow graves covered in pebbles and small stones would have to do. 

Following Doratac the next morning Hoffee's unit learned of a few factions on the islet. An unknown faction of cultists dwelled in the circle of mounds, The White Stallion Empire from off world, and minor CSO presence. Getting to the mounds proved to be an uphill journey. Guarding the mounts were 120 of the cultists the Dwarf warned them about. Showing violent distrust these cultists attacked the newcomers. Ten of his men were wounded, bruised, two dead, and Doratac dead as well. They were not the only ones fighting this cult. Five Cataphracts of the White Stallion Empire, three blue lizard folks, a CSO metallic flesh Dissolver attacked these same cultists. From different flanks these other groups set out for suicidal vengeance. Pressing the advance on these cultists, Hoffee's unit wiped out a total of 157 robed cultists. His unit was the only force to survive this battle. In the center of the stone village stood a stargate like structure according to one dying Cataphract they tried reviving. Shaped like a triangle this stargate appeared operational. Several cultists rushed through a yellowish liquid before it shut down. It appeared wired up with a generator, and some control panel stands.

Gildan lay on the edge of the platform seas. One castaway pirate living with a cat was discovered. About the size of a dog, this feline had a large pistol cannon on its back. The castaway went a little crazy on them for a moment. He warned them of another wave of aliens coming. Forced to take him and the cat along Hoffee went to the islet Agored. On this foliage covered island they found a warlock from another world, some long blade boss of a dead guild, an onyx skinned Ogre with no ears, Sentient Black Drake, some Black Octopus being. Several armored troopers got themselves caught by these monsters days ago. Hoffee's unit came across a bit of a gang rape, devouring of male troopers, and torture. With the monsters focused on their victims his unit saved 6 female troopers from these beasts. It was not part of their plan, but it may gain more allies, or strengthen the alliance their Vestrisians already forged. Looking at the warlock he studied its facial features. No nose, just a long hole, purple-blue skin, no hair, wide forehead, spike like tendrils coming down its face like a mustache. Before heading home Hoffee's unit found seas creatures prowling the edge of the "platform seas". On another islet in the arch, they found a Tyrannodragonite that showed restraint upon their encounter. It showed more curiosity that hostility. The beastly reptile left them alone to return back to base. When Hoffee's party returned to base on the ship they found others come to tug at a destroyed ship that ran aground on a reef. Whole teams of divers, and scavengers rowed over to save what they could. Satisfied with their mission's success despite some setbacks, Hoffee returned to his own quarters with a new companion. Unfortunately, the pirate died during the fight with the monsters leaving Hoffee to take care of the feline friend. Naming it Guardian Hoffee went to the mirror to find he shaven his facial hair to a mustache. 

Recruitment and Recommendations Year 1840 on Calorn

 War has finally here on their side of the world. It had the tendency to come and go. Whenever the chaos, killing, and deaths stopped. That is if the two sides came to an agreement, or one overtook the opposing side. Was it necessary to happen? To peace lovers it was not since it only brought destruction through their eyes. It appeared counterproductive. Nothing was created unless one counted the armaments, and food prepared along with equipment used in warfare. Others viewed it as a way to show dominance over others, their patriotism, defend their pride, or exploit neighboring states' resources. Some nowadays saw it was a way to eliminate old rivals such as tribes, ethnic groups, or noble houses in the way of success. In the case of aliens invading, it seemed necessary to defend their independence, and survive. Two alien invaders, the Gantronese and Nazdar came to conquer Calorn. One came to forge some empire while the other came for slaves and profits. 

As he was seated at his desk typing away in his typewriter, Lucien "Blacken Beard" Bomnere  realized those were not the reasons they were going to war. War was a plague that kept coming back. This time it was a war against the Vullanese Empire, or what remained of it. In recent years the newly founded VUVR discovered mass disappearances in the Boathrin Kingdom's Boathria, and the illegal construction of Vullanese Temples. Constructing such temples went against a Treaty the Vullanese and her former state members all signed. For at least a century or more the Boathrians, and their allies enforced this treaty each year. Probing, and investigating with agents followed by spies unveiled the illegal construction. Why the Boathrin Kingdom did nothing about was merely out of respect for all religions. A noble and honorable act by the young Queen Lizan, but a mistake she no doubt regrets. They had just fought a war in fact three wars almost back-to-back. It seemed difficult to find anyone willing to fight this early. Yet he realized just the authorities, military, and government knew about the attacks on the Vullanese Temples. Women were found in the underground basements of the Temples. Priests claimed they were devotees to their faith. That was said a year earlier when an inquisitor came snooping around. 

It was just this year of 1840 when the VUVR's Boathrin forces invaded over a dozen settlements. More like a mass storming and extraction of priests from the temples at the bordering settlements. Along the borders between Boathria, and Vullan soldiers siding with the VUVR removed priests, and their servants from every temple dedicated to Vullan. Checking the number of soldiers, they currently had in the mainland he swore this could be a long war. Even with veterans of age returning to the field, this could still drag on. Vullan had allies on her side or should he say his side. On the Vullanese side of Boathrin Isles, the women hardly have political power. Through the eyes of media, papers, and pamphlets they are seen as pets, slaves, servants, and objects to the Vullanese man. Plenty of newspapers, journalists, and writers demonized these Vullanese devotees, priests, acolytes, sages etc. Lucien was sure there was another side to this tale. The truth of course, however that truth could be erased or sidelined by the victor. Typing away the letters to certain personnel, and individuals he recalled a certain veteran. 

Known as "Were Wolf Spawn" among the Black Coat's 24th Black Jackals, 2nd Lt. Jecht Clawleaf was the first Black Coat veteran he contacted. On the other side of the office sat the veteran ranger with his cat in his lap. Beside him sat the decorated Butter Churn piece, Lucien's Corner Chair, family grandfather clock, and garden chair his lover gave him last year. Jecht's cat, Boasin, a ten-year-old nineteen pounder main coon lay on the left arm of the chair he sat in. After their years in the Black Coats Jecht became more adventurous across the countries of Vestrisian, Ottante, and Nevora. His cat, Boasin went with him a few times. As for the rest of the times Lucien took care of the cat. He was thankful Jecht did not have something like a Musky Lat or Wolf to take care of. Wolves tend to be in the woods and deep forests. Musky Lats were those climbing creatures that looked like a crossbreed between a dire rat and a furry skink lizard. Prowling the streets all over the cities of countries north of the southern hemisphere, Musky Lats give off an Odor.

"How many do you suppose Vullan will send to war?" Jecht asked him from his seat in a displeased tone that made him sound like he was struggling to take a shit. 

"Millions of their own people no doubt. These Vullanese are devout to their religion of servitude. Remember the last war Boathria and Al-Dadoria fought against them?" Lucien stopped typing to reply to the veteran friend of his. 

"Granted them some form of self-governing independence. Am I correct in this?" Jecht blatantly blurted out. When one of the cleaning staff members entered Lucien's office both men shot their heads straight to the doorway. Dressed as a maid in a less revealing style uniform, Ms. Morgan "Feek" Olmas peered through the opened door. She was one of those Half Dark Elves with green eyes, tan skin, curves, fine hips, and a sweet, stern attitude towards her work. She was more of a no-nonsense kind of maid who looked like she would appear in one of those modelling posters. Her blonde hair was fixed in a wrapped bun. Every time she entered a room to check on or clean her appearance would always turn heads her way. At first, she smothered a cute giggle each time until one visitor attempted kissing her. Lucien only heard of the story from former Witch Hunter, current Estate Agent, Mrs. Bethal. She worked downstairs at the business section of the complex. She was the reason behind all the beauties working as maids, and cleaners. He always preferred the fat cleaning staff member so he could have all his focus on work. 

"Mr. Bomnere, does the floor in the far corner on your left feel wet? One of the Translators, I mean Interpreters down the hall complained of a leak from the ceiling pipes." Morgan asked him. 

"No, everything is fine here Feek. Go check on Mr. Mackwin the Editor at Suite 247." Lucien answered. 

Morgan Olmas took his answer with a mental note before giving his room a quick dust. He waited for her to be done before returning his attention to Jecht. Jecht seemed a little too pleased to Morgan trotting about the room with her duster. He would ask Jecht to stop ogling her, but that would mean making her stop work. That is what she could not afford to do. She spent several minutes dusting around his office before leaving. Jecht still looked bewildered. His own eyes were glued to the door. 

"Can we call her back?" Jecht suggested with a peevish grin on his half Orc face. 

"I thought you were married?" Lucien asked confused. 

"She did not tolerate my behavior, so she had me stay with a friend until I quit drinking." Jecht admitted making the grin disappear as his eyes shifted a little. 

"How can we get your mind off drinking?" Lucien asked aloud more to himself than to Jecht. 

"Ha ha so how many have signed up for this upcoming war?" Jecht asked attempting to change the subject. 

Looking down at what he typed up so far he saw how many veterans, soldiers, reservists, Black Coats, and individuals were sent a letter of recommendation for recruitment. Checking the numbers again he could have sworn the total number of citizens, and personnel combined rose up to 3.5 million. If he were adding the soldiers, they had kept an eye on Evusia it would likely be four million. Yet the Evusians showed little interest in maintaining resistance after several defeats in a row. Tens of thousands hired themselves out for various jobs. Lucien was certain those numbers would rise up in the hundreds of thousands as they become mercenaries, bodyguards, ship security or likely thugs. A thought hit him concerning various states within the Valde Ocean. 

"Jecht, aren't there thirty-three other states within the Valde Ocean? There's Al-Dadoria, Vullan, Boathrin, Gontrella, Vidothra, Nymres, our VUVR, the alien invading factions at our doorsteps." Lucien turned from his typewriter in search for an answer from Jecht who was now receiving licks to the face from his cat. 

"In total I cannot say, I do know how to count, however the invaders may have annexed some into their empires. According to my chums from Boathria some of those island states have declared neutrality, others sided with Vullan, others became collaborators, and the rest sided with us." Jecht replied honestly. 

Which ones will throw their support for the VUVR after breaking away from the Boathrin Kingdom. Al-Dadoria has shown loyalty as have the Boathrians. Lucien thought to himself. He was not one to keep those thoughts to himself. Turning his body to face Jecht caught the cat's attention, whom jumped down to approach him a few feet. Lucien looked at the cat then at Jecht wondering if they could rally enough allies. If this oncoming conflict drags over a year, should they expect the aliens to step in? Alagen, Al-Dadoria, Loima or Lybris, Redrin, Rovantia, Ivodra, Malvieth, Nahemine Kingdom, Ruhonthra, Evusia, Meze, Eoth, Grussia, Vunnace, and other states would also step in. He was referring to other nations such as Sercane, Lesdonia, Khazadgul, East Koriv, Vezarith, Cydnam, Nevradit, and Damis. In his mind Lucien recalled other free states the Gantronese helped maintain independence or free themselves from Nazdar grip. Vincani, Miccado, Medron, Methar, and Kinach appeared trapped in the continent of Estoras. Lucien wasn't sure how long those states would hold out even if they managed to distract the Nazdar forces. Distant allies such as the free Drasdal states, Iznar Kingdoms, Hadria, Ermentwa, Vios, Luvahan, Jumar, Dormany, Derol, Lornav, and Teniim Alliance looked completely surrounded. Smuggling of arms, and no doubt elite troops would be required. Looking over at the globe of Calorn on his desk he noticed the large mass of land called Nevora. Turning that part to face him he got up from his chair. 

"Jecht, come walk with me. Or would you prefer a hunt instead?" Lucien asked him to get a leash from one of the desk drawers. 

"Both would be nice! My ass has been numb from sitting in this chair!" Jecht claimed almost slapping the seat part. 

"But Jecht it has a cushion." He replied in a heckling mock tone. 

"Bullocks, not for my ass apparently." Jecht snapped back receiving a wink from Lucien. Jecht roared with laughter then grabbed his coat. 

Lucien put the walking leash on Boasin for Jecht who struggled with his own coat. The cat gave out a meow then purred a little. Letting out a chatty noise Boasin walked ahead of Lucien who changed hands holding the leash while putting on his coat. Choosing his fine tan coat Lucien prepared to leave his office with Jecht who wore the fur trimmed long coat. He turned off the lamps, and light switch to the room before leaving his office with Jecht. Lucien locked the door knowing the maids had keys to it. Turning left Lucien lead Jecht with his cat leaping on to his shoulder. On his floor and hall were twelve other offices. Green rugs ran up and down the hallway along with other decorations. Portraits of scenery, famous figures, ships, castles, and specific animals. Lucien remembered the owner of this building attempted a theme per floor, but it did not work out so well. Next to each office door hung a banner of the recently forged Vestrisian Union of Vestrisian Republics. Each depicted a gold anvil with a crossed wrench, sword, pitchfork on top, and pickaxe jutting from the bottom of the anvil on a field of blue. On the opposite side of the doors hung the national flag of Naatidra. One of the offices belonged to a real estate agent who delt with plots of lands transformed into berry farms to grow for vineyards, and wineries. Lucien knew of a total of 715 berry farms scattered across the continents of Vestrisia, and Klonon. With Boasin on Jecht's shoulder Lucien moved on to the operational elevator left that was recently installed. 

Going down with Jecht on the lift Lucien pondered over how many veterans were joining this conflict on the Boathrian side. In his mind recalled some 22,870 letters sent by the war department to former members of the Black Coats, the Vestrisian Army, scientists, and Doctors. About 121, 271 experienced veterans chose to enlist ahead of everyone else.  Their newly forged V.U.V.R. already had personnel within its military. In total it could put his calculated numbers at four million for this war. However, Vestrisia would have to rely on 414, 597 soldiers available to fight on the mainland while a larger force occupied Evusia's coastline along with an international navy. In Boathria they already had a force of 353,464 military personnel stationed there. He had no doubt that force along with Boathrian's loyal to Lizan were already at the front lines. For reserves they had at least 293,704 personnel on standby. These personnel included soldiers, engineers, operators, infantry, marksmen, elites, gunners, marines, and airborne. Other branches included the Naval forces, air force, and the old Dragoons that would soon be obsolete due to armored vehicles. Particularly tanks, Zedelets, and troop transports. 

"How many forces does our beloved V.U.V.R. have at its disposal?" Jecht asked him as the elevator lift stopped at the first floor. Could he tell a dear friend about their numbers? Jecht was a veteran, a comrade from the days of the Black Coats who was likely to help train future personnel. 

"Aside from the half a million we have watching over Evusia, we have at most one million personnel." Lucien responded wishing he kept his mouth shut. Jecht moved off the lift first on to the red carpeted hallway. Lucien bit his lip for a second until he saw a woman waiting to get on the lift. Dressed in a turtleneck flounce sleeve hem belted dress of blue with some golden stripes along the waste line. On her legs were white silk leggings. Lucien did not see what type of shoes she wore as his gaze went straight to the blue dyed feathered tricorn hat settled on her head.  As she passed him Boasin pawed at her feathers. It drew her attention who almost let out a squeal of delight at the sight of his cat on Lucien's shoulder. The woman was a half elf with hints of being in the sun for the summer months. She petted ruffled Boasin's head before stepping onto the lift. Jecht's eyes still followed her until she turned around. The lifts on this building only opened on one side. 

Moving left away from the lift they passed several clients, and staff members Lucien had seen for the past several months. Two of them wore their standard blue uniforms under the combat khaki fatigues they were issued. Each one looked a little toasty under all the layers. One looked to be a half Orc, and the other a full-blooded human. Everyone else in the moving crowd were either an elf, Zedirian, or Elemani. He spotted at least one tall Forsythan walking down the hall opposite their direction. Leading Jecht towards the main entrance to the building he worked at Lucien found himself inside a somewhat lively entry chamber. A lot of renovation went into this building before he came working here. A security guard he knew spotted him and gave him a nod. Wearing an all-gray outfit with a side button shirt tunic, gray trousers, black boots, and gray kepi cap, the Estati named Gifford had Lucien on his good side. The young buff looking Forsythan-Elf hybrid made for a good security guard. Large, quick, and intimidating while being modest with the public. Lucien had to nearly push bast a few men in business suits, traditionalist merchants in their robes or long elegant gowns for attire. Some civilians wore a more casual look compared to himself. Some wore vests over light colored shirts, canvas pants, plaid trousers, and various styles of shoes he could not see as he moved towards the door. When he got to the castle style double doors at the entrance Lucien spotted the doorman greeter. Dark skinned half Goblin-half Human, Ebert Graverober stood next to the door in his all-bright yellow suit. Everything yellow except his pudgy face, green hair, and wide grin. 

"Going somewhere Lucien?" Ebert asked with his hands clasped in each other as he inched towards the door. 

"Oh, just taking Jecht here on a hunting trip tomorrow." Lucien quickly said shoving the heavy door open and urging Jecht through his free arm. Boasin hissed at Ebert and clawed at him from Lucien's shoulder. Jecht shrugged then flipped off Ebert before exiting. Lucien got out as fast as he could slamming the heavy door as best as he could on the nosy doorman hoping he broke his teeth. "Damned over bloated Imp, always getting in my business!" 

"You don't suppose he knows about your job with the military?" Jecht offered as they stepped away from the building. 

"If he does that fat pig goblin will have a Zhenrai, or an Orc at his doorstep the next week ensuring he doesn't spill anything to the enemy." Lucien blurted with full confidence. What he would give just to watch that door man be dragged away to a military court hearing then to the main courts of New Vattoram for spreading crucial information abroad like a school bully who just found out your secret. Plenty of personnel were at the ready as well as the air force and the navy. We have about thirteen thousand nine hundred one pilots ready with just about ten thousand aircraft at the ready. For our navy over eighty thousand nine hundred thirty-two sailors at the ready. Yet that number could be one hundred thousand seamen at the moment. He thought to himself walking towards Grove Street, which cut through Ebon Row. On this street lay a university opposite his workplace. He caught sight of three witches outside the university gates waiting for a fourth one. Each wore an identical velvet cloak of violet with the symbols of love, travel, fire, and strength on the back. 

Lucien allowed Jecht to lead the way along Ebon Row where a complex of twenty-six Gnomes Houses stood with a Souvenir shop, Barber Shop, Diner called Stephan's Grill, a movie theater still showing the most recent picture shows, a Restaurant named Gonzo's Flower, a Hotel, Police Station, bakery, toy store, purse shop flanking it. On the opposite side stood a tool shop, antique store, tobacco store, pipe shop, an apartment complex, dance studio, weapons shop, drugstore, consignment store, small grocery store, tutoring service, and a pet shop. Along Grove Street they came upon a butcher's shop, tanner, city houses, pottery, coffee shop, liquor store, Apothecary, trade store, an inner-city inn, glassware crafters, a factory taking up most of the right side, modernized printing press, metal workers, jewelry store, and a Bounty Hunter Services. Ebon Row ended at Three Dice Street where a young couple sat at a table in the public outdoor lounging area. Jecht and Lucien breezed past them too quickly to get a good look at them. It reminded Lucien of the one million and a half citizens who enlisted to fight for Boathrin. It numbered to 1,544,502 citizens who enlisted already. Just to get someone off his back he made this list with the numbers of recruits along with specific labels. Apparently an extra thirty-four thousand were seen as crazy doing this enlistment, which totaled 34,893 citizens of all walks of life and professions joining the fight. Another group wanted nothing more than to just shoot something. Those numbers only went up to 11,050 gunslingers, gun fanatics, shooters, and bored marksmen or bored wannabe gunslingers. 

Both he and Jecht returned to their homes only to meet the next morning for their hunting trip. Lucien's wife, Phoebe Bomnere stood in the door. In her baker's apron over a casual dress his slender raven-haired wife who had a birth mark on her cheek. He knew she was going to probe him on where he was going. Giving in to his wife's probing look he fessed up since she hardly shared a word with anyone at work. Phoebe secretly despised the other bakers she had working under her employ. Over dinner they berated the schooling of their adopted nephew, and three children for a few minutes. It was only for a bit of fun.  Esmeralda Bomnere was still in early grammar learning. Ionelle Bomnere had one year left of it. Set to attend a boarding school just outside Arcknight city she sought to become a Detective, or Astronomer. Yet the way her school master sees it, Ionelle should pursue Accounting, Secretary, or Anthropology. She chose the third one. Akron Bomnere, their son was visiting after the workshop at the guild he joined. Right after schooling he discovered he was adept at a certain trade. A Renovator is what he became due to his skills in repair, assembling, and constructing. As for his nephew from his deceased sister's side, Matthoris Lekar, blacksmithing became his trade along with some melee training in a mixed guild. His guild sat near a Rogue's Guild which Phoebe scoffed how its members were land pirates any ways. It remined Lucien of the 14, 297 or so pirates who offered their services and 101 ships. Lucien informed the family he was going hunting for Dire Elk or some Catoblepas Spawn ravaging the countryside. Phoebe warned him to be careful and to hire an actual hunter. She did not want him relying solely on Jecht's experiences. Lucien remembered these Guilds, and Orders about 16,750 members were joining to fight. Plenty of Spearmen, and Hunters were joining while the rest of their Guilds joined the Country Guards in Castaria, Zegrav, and Geverine. Looking up at the table Lucien muttered about other Guild members joining this war. Some 8,533 members of Sword Guilds chose to fight. His wife and nephew presumed it had more to do with boredom or sense of duty. Whereas he believed it was patriotism to a unified country. Members of other guilds such as the Dagger Guilds, Rogues, Assassins numbered closer to 9,766 recruits. Both his son and Nephew were at the age for recruitment or enlistment. However, they'd still need to go through training and bootcamp. 

Once dinner was over the family called it a night. Lucien managed to get over to Jecht's rental town house. No one was renting it out at the moment. It became a second home to Jecht whose wife somewhat kicked him out. There was a Ranger renting out for two years until their mission was complete. Rangers in their area went after lost people, or livestock that wondered off. There was also the occasion where they would be called upon to get rid of monsters, take down an elusive outlaw, or some humanoid that appears undead. Lucien followed Jecht over to his shed full of hunting gear. Having Rangers numbering 7, 679 enlist while the rest joined the Country Guard meant word reached their ears as well. Boasin had to be corralled out of the shed as they prepared for a possible six-day hunt.  Depending on how far out they would need to be determined how long time was spent away. Jecht telephoned a friend of his from one of the Hunting Guilds to pick them up. Using a mounted rotary phone that appeared cracked due to violent behavior Jecht summoned a driver from one of the nearest Hunting Guilds in the area. From outside the city just an hour away an old friend picked them up. Howhol Running-Beaver arrived in a modified custom-built automobile that looked nothing like the advertisements of certain brands. Originally a Gnome-Dwarf built car known as the Loudmouth Edy 34. It was not as common in the city as the Urban Commoner 12. Lucien's own vehicle, the Rolling Kevin was smaller. A perfect vehicle for getting around the city. It was currently driven by his own wife at the moment. Taking a couple of the hunting rifles Jecht recently purchased last year they rode north out of town. Boasin was fortunate to have one of Jecht's neighbors take of it while they were gone. 

On the road Lucien felt inclined to tell Jecht about how many were volunteering for the Country Guard in Castaria and Zegrav. Some 52,397 Rangers, Hunters, Warriors, and citizens were choosing to keep the peace in those regions. Even the Dragoons, although an older military unit these days yet still effective were receiving recruits. About 31,842 added to the already 20, 282 Dragoons still active. On the road they passed a Noble's Estate reminding Lucien of the 10,671 young Nobles joining the ranks for their own reasons. Howhol brought them to the hunting lodge where they would stay for a few days. It was two and a half hours away from the city. Just as they got settled down several aircraft flew overhead in what Lucien guessed were drills. 

"Just about 13, 901 pilots express readiness for this war. We have just 10,609 aircraft at our disposal." Lucien commented. 

"Cool, I mean interesting would that be enough? Are we manufacturing more?" Jecht added in giving him an uncertain expression. 

"We are doing that Jecht. It should be enough. Our allies receive aircraft that we construct as well." He responded. 

"Lucien, how many clansmen, and warriors are joining this fight?" Jecht asked as he sat down. It took a moment to recall the exact numbers of 97,922 Knights, Bowmen, Clansmen, guards along with 124,400 Warriors, adventurers, and fighters who joined in. 

"Let's just say ninety-seven thousand clansmen, knights, bowmen, guards. As for warriors, one hundred twenty thousand warriors, adventurers, and fighters." He answered Jecht. 

"Tell more in the morning." Jecht replied before going to bed. Lucien could tell this would hit Jecht the most. A few of his younger cousins, and nephews expressed a readiness to fight. Lucien prepared himself for bed recalling the 8,164 shield brothers, shield sisters, or a fraternity or battle angel group. Hardly any member of the guilds, clans, knighthoods, nobility, clubs, orders, fraternities, or covens were staying out of this fight. It felt too personal to stay out of it. Just 431 arcane users signed themselves on alongside 137 of the ominous Zhenrai Knights who still practice an ancient craft. The next morning, he woke to Jecht's cooking of eggs with sausages. Lucien felt obliged to make the coffee for them. Here in Vestrisia it was more of a custom to eat something before making coffee. He revealed what the amount of recruits the VUVR was getting for this war. Even the 219, 412 citizens, inmates, outlaws, or rebels being drafted as punishment. This included cultist groups such as Cythar's Followers, Dragon Spawns, Forlorn Sons, Orcish Proven Ones, Disciples of Flame, Hooded Skulls, Ordnance Brethren, Stitched Mortem, Blue Claws. Among these ensnared cultists groups were the various outlaws, crooks, burglars, thieves, rapists, murderers, mad scientists, brigands, aliens captured in the act. 

"I hope all those criminals die or suffer for what they've done. Especially the cultists, sacrifices, desecration of religious sites, abductions, cannibalism, massacres of families, corpse eating, stealing from the dead, or targeting certain groups. So are there any elites being trained?" Jecht had to cut himself off. His own family suffered a loss at the hands of the cults that managed to thrive during the Castaria, and Zegrav conflict. 

"Say about 2,402 elites undergoing training in secret." He answered Lucien with a wink. 

Heading out to hunt a Dire Elk took a few hours in the morning, but they found a few roaming about. In the could the pair of them took caution as they stalked the beastly Elk. Bigger than the average Elk this one stood at nine and a half forearms tall. Bagging two Elks the pair of them and Howhol managed to get the corpses in the back of a truck at the lodge. As for the monster they sought to hunt, a group of Dragoons gunned it down, skinned it, made use of some parts while discarding the rest for the rest of nature to deal with. Two days later they returned home with a successful hunt, but a failed monster killing mission. As they reentered their home city, they were met with a mob protesting the war. Many called for peace with the Vullanese. Lucien watched 113 anti-war protestors rounded up. Just the way Vullan portrayed itself did not make it satisfying to the rest of the VUVR. Lucien understood why these people wanted peace, but knew peace wasn't going to last with a few power-hungry empires at their doorstep. When they got out of the car Jecht looked at him with a discerning expression. 

"Just how many whelps are the Vullanese going to shit out for their ranks?" He asked him. 

"Just about one million to three million or more I'd say." Lucien responded while trying to keep his composure. After dividing up their successful hunt between each other and Howhol, they returned to their own homes. Lucien pondered over just how many recruits, and enlisted citizens would be fighting before this war ends.