Gontrella 1841-1842 An Audacious Infiltrator

Hunter's Edge lay on borders of the Blackmell Mountains. It rested on the foothills near the slopes. Just like an unwanted wart on a butt cheek it stuck out. As for him a small mole rested above his left buttocks. Residing in the heart of Gontrella his piece of shite cottage sat on a rough city style block. His friend were responsible for a painted propaganda against the Gontrellan Leader, some Chief of Warlords and local Lieutenant of the Watch. It was where they were to go as they were ratted out by Hunter's Edge locals. Events delayed their trip back. Two groups fought each other outside the settlement. One group of 428 Hostile Beast Kuruks fought 413 Raging Redcap Goblin Knights. A unit of 576 Cavalry Drill Masters move in to help a school of 299 Half-Elf Monks so they can deal with the two forces. Around that time one of their friends a pupil to a large university closest to the borders informed them this battle stirred a wild herd towards another village. It was while a cog work archivist construct helped with a cram session for 1,035 pupils who watched this herd of grazing glade hart antelope stampede. Alchemist Andylle Ingotz stood outside his own cottage in his tan collarless button up shirt over a white collarless slip-on tunic, trousers with side buttons, maroon outdoor loafers. Andylle's  combed over hair showed signs of thickening since the last time he had it cut. Andylle's friend Lars Blackfire a fellow alchemist-artist from Geverine who also held years of experience as an acrobat due to pressure from family. That was before moving to Gontrella in 1833 AN.  

Lars joined him in his white tunic shirt, leather trousers, leather hide apron. His long brown hair sort of met the same texture as his brownish skin color. A scar over his right eye made it clear that it was blind. Both heard the story about some Towering Wave Mystic between the coasts of Vodwania, and Gontrella. Part of some ancient race of the sea or waters this Mystic was more of a merfolk type humanoid. The types many sailors, and fishermen kept reporting. Every season, hunters, monster killers, adventurers, or knights hunted them down or chased them away. It sounded more interesting than what Andylle was hearing while outside his cottage door. In front of a newly constructed reinforced bank full of safes and vaults a tall female elf Blade Veteran chatted or argued in a blue decorative long coat with propped up collars, gold scarf wrap tunic under a vest made from layers of woven fiber overlapped by a bullet resistance material called Vakko. Only the dyed Vakko could be seen while the woven fibers made up the interior. Her trousers were similar to his own yet under horse riding trousers. As for boots, they were Nazdar issued boots meant for all terrain. Most of their Grevaskii wore this. The person arguing back appeared more human than dark elf in his adventuring outfit that fit over casual linen clothing. 

"Which places were you not banned from?" the Vakko wearing elf continued. 

"Banned from some local taverns across the central portions of Gontrella. The Woodsmen's Guild Pub, Earls Stables Tavern, Boat in the Statue over in Vorgo's Moat. Even the Skeleton's Headache banned me. Delias the Fat Cabana doesn't want me there anymore. Yet that obese Orc-Ogre-Goblin Spawn allows mini Bernes Fortowings and his mother to sit there. He is old enough to marry now, but girls seem to avoid him." The Dark elf unveiled to the Vakko wearing elf. 

"Oh, so he cannot be seen with mom, because it is a turn off. Then he has to be nice to his mom in order to be kept away from the outcast label." 

"You saw her yesterday and last week. Doesn't she tell you anything?" That sort of pissed her off. She stepped into his space almost touch his nose with his own. Roughly brushing past the Dark Elf the female elf blade marched angrily over to a group of five stumps often used as seats. Behind these stumps stood a patch of neatly trimmed trees, a vendor vegetable stand, an isolated shack near a shed to someone else's property. 

"Are you going to watch those two argue? Come on Andylle help me fill these three potion bottles." 

"Just came out for a breath of fresh air and a moment to my own thoughts Lars." He answered turning around to reenter the alchemy lab. His loafer shoes stepped on the dirt and the four tiles with cross designs then on the stone steps that took him to the interior. Inside their lab was messy with shattered glassware, vials, stools at bench-shelves, island table, cylinders, jugs, jars, beakers, retorts, calcinator, alembics, pestle and mortar, scales, oil lamps, abandoned mugs, glass funnels, glass flasks of different shapes and uses, distillers, furnace pieces, large pots filled the shelves. Similar instruments littered tables in two other rooms. Andylle, Lars and three others toiled for hours to create a universal solvent that involved filling up 721 vials. Meant to keep soldiers warm and hydrated while they are on patrol along the coasts and patrols. Andylle checked a window to see the pair sitting opposite each other. 

Those were not the types of conversations Andylle and Lars wanted to hear. Especially when war broke out just last year. War was not glorious, glamours, or hospitable to either side. Yet it happened whenever opposing sides reached boiling points or someone offended another. Trespassing was another reason war happened. An army or intruder crosser over uninvited into another state armed. Yet immigrants, travelers, refugees, wanderers, merchants, entertainers became an exception. Even health workers such as doctors, nurses, apothecaries, healers were granted permission. A loud knock came at the door tearing their attention away from their work. Andylle answered the door leaving the other alchemist lab workers to their corking and sealing. 

At the door he found seven Canal workers, nicknamed Canal Monitors due to their line of work. Andylle spoke to their leader who requested that a workshop assistant construct help them. One Canal Monitor or laborer mentioned a problem caused by a mutiny that started. Under the leadership of a single influential chill bringer mage 302 workers dropped their work. Two of their canals connecting the settlements of Promenth to Willowhill. A road connected those settlements to Westblade in the north of Vorgo's Moat, their current location. Truckloads of stones, boulders, bricks clogged the canals, and a bridge was destroyed. In one settlement a riot broke out during the canal mutiny. A total of 396 rioters and a ringleader became involved who were disgruntled over a shipment of goods coming in late. 

Despite having roads connecting the bridges, traffic tended to drag a little. According to the canal workers parts of the canal were clogged using merchandise in other parts by shady strangers. Andylle road with them to see for himself. Inside he hoped none of those merchandise was one of the shipments they sent over to the front. One nice shipment of 600 bottles and flasks of a substance called stone-sponge. A crafted substance that acts as a cement filler that expands. At the site of the clogged portions, he learned that a goblin smuggler dumped the cargo leaving 426 intact bottles and flasks that required chiseled out. 

"I see the substance works." He muttered to himself. This stone sponge they invented expanded when it came into contact with liquid. Bringing over the construct took time as it required loading onto a truck. It was not the only construct brought over to help. Well into the night some 874 laborers and contractors dug up the debris. 

Sixty-four constructs moved back and forth bringing piles of debris to the mechanized wagon. Most bottles/vials made it whereas 137 of those were lost. Whoever managed the cargo or loading moved ahead with the deliveries. Whatever else had to be dug out were discarded or shipped back to storage. Andylle did not return to his piece of shite home until four in the morning after three days of hard labore. Lars and the others forced him to relax at their lodge in Hunter's Edge for seven days or so. With the radio on loud Andylle hoped to get some news of the V.U.V.R. encroaching on their borders. All he got were reports of skirmishes, raids made by Orcs, Goblins, Troglodytes, Gnolls, Kuruks isolated incidents such as crimes. A knock came at the door that turned into a loud banging jolted him awake. Andylle rushed to open the door. Instead of Lars or any of their associates a sprite pixie was at the door flapping their wings. These were Imp Harpy Spawn that looked like a red skinned goblin with bat like wings. Introducing themselves as Iggitte the Sprite-Pixie belonged to a merchant guild in the southwestern coast. This one came to this door with news. 

"I see you be that Aclossen Alchemist Andylle Ingots. Lars Blackifre sent me over here to warn you. A Vampire envoy met with ninety-two of them rioters, and mutineers. Terms were discussed but the main Vampire ordered 318 of them dropped in a merciless resolve. It was like some spell or something. No it is not a real Vampire just our title for governor." this winged goblin winked. 

"Anything else, what happened to the Chill bringer?" Andylle asked gripping the door. 

"Oh them, the Vampire of the region sent a Syncopate Assassin Mage after them. A female half-elf, or half demon 328 years of age or experience sent for 2,000 Black Gems in coins." This Imp answered Andylle's mind spun around changing his concerns over the Chill Bringer who started the problem. The Vampire reminded him of his own crime of propaganda.

"I don't care about that. Was there anything else. Are Lars and I off the hook about the propaganda?" He demanded forcing the subject away from the leaders. 

"What propaganda?" This winged creature asked with a wink and nod, flapping their wings to stay in the air. It became the code or phrase that meant you are off the hook. "Say what goes on around the borders? We've heard nothing for nine to ten days straight." 

Rolling his eyes Andylle mentioned what he heard over the radio. The region's Vampire, literal tittle of governor oversaw a Burning Prophet's execution with malicious intent. Their crime was becoming a source for acting as a guiding force that inspire over 284 to charge against orders of their superiors. This was through sorcery which became restricted with certain rules. Six days ago, shipments of Invortus93s, Khet Rifles arrived at the border along with a portion of the shipment his alchemists made. Towards the north a group of 50 Ogre-Dwarves run into a Necromancer and five of their zombies near Thestlestand. In the south along the coast a dire fleet hoarder suffered a spectral binding near a church, Master Mason's Guild. Their attempted to get out with an arcane bolt caused a deadly volt charge that shot into the church outdoor meat locker shed. Whoever that fake freebooter was they impacted the job of a Church Curate of Monastery Stephen. It involved preserving the hides and meats of Highland Game Elk. A herd was targeted for sport and hunting for the town of Flokk. 

"Somewhere in a Royal Observatory a Scholar of the stars with a thirst for knowledge suffered from a certain spell. It had something to do with a figure who lured him with hidden strings attack to this deal that ends in them suffering from strangling spores." 

"Where is the figure then?" He asked. 

"Who knows, probably gone to the Vestrisian side of things." In his mind he knew that sounded shady, V.U.V.R. officials letting in a sorcerer or mage that kills innocent civilians. Andylle realized it could be that this figure wanted to stop the scholar from discovering something. Why else kill a scholar of the stars. 

"Iggit does anyone else know that I am here?" he asked the winged creature who just shrugged their shoulders. He took this as a no. 

Taking advantage of no one else knowing he reduced the chances of discovery by leaving on a train. With his head bowed low as if a Vestrisian Dead Eye hunted his head. Acting as a dysfunctional deadbeat who owes money yet needs to meet a deadline he rode like a wanderer stowaway on the cargo cars. While riding in the cargo car with nine black and brown steeds Andylle found two mating inside. Something he did not to witness. Sleep did not come easy due to the noise of horses mating. When they were done a nude equestrian came around from another horse to hug both horses. Andylle shut his eyes tight expecting the female equestrian to get down under horse. Despite the wild night he still managed to sleep into the morning. Whatever the equestrian did with the horses he did not want to know. 

One horse licked his face then snorted into it. Andylle sat up after hours of sleep on some straw, folded horse blankets. Another equestrian girl sauntered over to him with a smile on her face. Going for his pants this one attempted to take them off. Scared for some reason Andylle punched her in the eye. More scare of the others he scrambled up, grabbed his bag and jumped out. The train he stowed on stopped at what had to be the town of Bastionhelm, the center of armory, chainmail, leather tanners, blacksmiths, Armorers, and craftsman guilds. 

By the train station he spotted Chapter Houses of Knights, a Public Bath, Castle Library, an Academy Guilds, some Great Museum, Opera House. Some structures between streets, others near condos, or condominium. In a quickened pace he moved past the tracks to a Tavern with a row of transportations in a garage that used to be a stable. This tavern sat behind the station. As he moved towards it, a red-haired elf-demon from Syrianos appeared from behind an alley between the station and Tavern. She folded her arms in a critique manner. Just the way she appeared in the Grevaskii fatigues that looked similar to the ones Nazdar soldiers wore. Only this one was grayish in color. She motioned for him to approach her. Andylle moved with his head bowed low still hiding his face. His whereabouts were supposed to be in Hunter's Edge. Looking at the ground Andylle thought what it would be like if he lived in the V.U.V.R. What would that be like for him? What would their men be like? Just the feeling of a man's body against his own aroused him. Lars was more of a friend, pal, colleague. Fat men did not appeal to him neither did certain activities with men. Just kissing, hugging, or playing games was all he wanted to do with other men. 

Thoughts on men were disrupted when a creature emerged from an alley they passed. Both stopped in their tracks then turned their attention towards this creature. Often known as an Alley Reaper, this creature was the type that went for prey from alleys or from behind buildings. It was lurking behind a condominium behind the tavern they just passed. The storage structure by the condominium was made from brick with a double hipped roof. It extended a little in size and length creating the corner space to hide. Nothing, but a hooded cloak wrap mixed with a long coat covered this Alley Lurker from head to toe. Multiple belt buckles held this custom crafted clothing together. It approached them in a shuffle when another figure came dancing from around the end of the corner of the storage building. 

Dressed in a gold tan tank top dress a curly blonde with pinkish skin tone danced towards them. She did not notice them until she almost bumped into the elf demon. Andylle thought she was a strumpet at first until he spotted the half-star hair clip. It represented coteis, women paid by the settlement to perform services. Services did include dancing, singing, calming massages, exercises, or motivation. Yet these women would often be used for other services. Strumpets were in the larger cities or the coasts of Gontrella, Vodwania, or Nymres. This one acted a little too quickly by pulling her straps down exposing herself then pulling the dress back up. Andylle backed away while the elf-demon gave her an intrigued expression. Her hands found parts of the cotei as they covered her face in embarrassment. Enjoying her a little the demon elf revealed her name be Lieutenant Cannis Azzoran. Both forgot the Lurker that made a motion to lash out grabbing their attention back to it. 

Andylle was about to ditch the scene when twenty humanoids surrounded them. Similarly dressed as Cannis these humanoids wore outdoor vests, harnesses, bandoliers, bullet belts, holsters, blade sashes. Yet none of these humanoids possessed any weapons or bullets in them. Among these humanoids he only recognized the humans, half-orcs, half elves. Three of the other humanoids races which appeared wolf like, raven, or reptilian shrew in appearance. A barbarian looking figure in uniform among them seemed a little quaint. He marched up to the Lieutenant while the Alley Lurker attempted to get away. The Cotei readjusted herself before running away crying. Not caring at all about the cotei this barbarian looking Grevaskii motioned for Cannis to join them. 

"Pay that Cotei a monthly sum then reports to the Drill School Barracks Trap." This barbarian looking figure barked at Cannis. 

"Yes Captain Grumbar." Lieutenant Cannis answered in a small voice. Her attempted to hide her fear worked a little bit. 

This Barbarian Captain pulled out a long dagger. He plunged the weapon into the Alley Lurker's back. Grumbar pulled back the hood to reveal a grotesque fish lipped, bald, earless head. Most Alley Lurker's looked like skeletal malnourished humanoids. Yet this one looked to be a hybrid of sea creature and whatever the other spouse was. Leaving the corpse for the Morgue collectors the twenty alien looking Grevaskii escorted Andylle and Lt. Cannis through the settlement. Gontrella was home to a population of 84 million humans, Goblins, half elves, Zunia Puck Satyrs, Orcs, half-Orcs. First made up of different states, kingdoms that were once villages or camps, Gontrella became a single unified Monarchy over time. Now it became a single state constitutional monarchy close to becoming a central authoritarianism. It demanded for five million to enlist to fight the V.U.V.R. 

Calorn's year of 1841 A.N. came after the catastrophic stalemate they suffered at the hands of the Hexagonal Alliance. Suffering losses to Diron City, Dimcabul, Domoron Mountain City of Dwarves, Haldiron Mountains of the Elves, Vussayran Peaks Dynasty, Prolux Kingdom did take some of Gontrella's economy out. To the south Gontrella had Boathria, which was currently at war with their own Valde ally, Vullan. Other independent neighbors between Vullan, Gontrella, and Boathria such as Shecaster Isles, Tivine State, Defraysal did not help Gontrella's conflict against the Hexagonal Alliance. Around the same time as this Hexagonal conflict, they fought those three Island City-States. Virec Wren Vieth, or known as Vrec Wren Vieth, a neutral valley that has one city surrounded by enclaves, ranches, farmsteads, hovels, hamlets, and mountains became a key target. Fighting the eight or nine states incurred losses as high as 241,020 dead, loss of 17 ships, 200 million Black Gems, 518, 000 wounded, drugged, indisposed by disease. 

As for the eleven states a total loss of 56,000 killed in action, 145,000 wounded. The conflict allowed Nazdar invaders to claim two of these island city-states Defraysal, and Tivine. V.U.V.R. forces entered the civilized parts of the Blackmell Mountains deterring attacks once made by wild Orcs, Goblins, Mountain Gnolls, Kuruks, Troglodytes. With Lieutenant Cannis, the 20 Grevaskii, 10 Gontrellans, Andylle met a Colonel, Major, and a team of other alchemists. Over six hundred Gontrellans ready for the border under the command of Colonel Graskin. According to the Colonel, Gontrella amassed a force to deal with the hags of the Blackmell hills. Not getting enough time to get acquainted with the other alchemists Andylle prepared more health potions and explosives. Faces were familiar, only a few names became recognizable. Harold, Bergman, or Heebner were the only names he recalled before they had to leave again. 

The return to Hunter's Edge was brief as they rode to the borders of Gontrella and Blackmell city-states. Hollowme Spiral, one of the Hag Witch domains that did not help in the fighting against the Hexagonal Alliance. Neither did Muskalla for that matter. It was around that time Muskalla was still writhing over losing swaths of land Vimasdra, and southeastern Ossus. Each of the Hag Witches were responsible for parts of the skirmishes that went along the mountainous borders. Hallowme Spiral rested on a wide hill covered in foliage, surrounded by thirteen to fifteen mounds, hills of rock, earth, trees, and moss. This terrain encircled the old Hag settlement. Upon approaching Hallowme Spiral they found tall boulders, stacked rocks, stones, branches, hardened roots mingled to form a series of walls. 

Andylle's unit arrived at the limits of the settlement where the road wrapped around its perimeter. Members of his unit knew who this Hag was, but refused to tell who it was. This included some Ex Master-Thief known as Blake Five Fingers who was snagged from getting hanged. Martial Artist Adept called Fume who was sentenced to serve as punishment for a brawl. An ex-swashbuckler, Prudence Disfigured Tattersall pressed into service from Trobbel Port in place of a death sentence over piracy. Two Goblins who were inmates over arson, and mass murder. An Orc named Cagon, a pair of Gnolls whose names he forgot. One local Champion Lutu from Marksville, an archer named Stev. Some Arch Druid called Nankil, one ram horned Kuruk called Arius were recruited from the borders between Muskalla and Gontrella. These selected Gontrellan soldiers made up a portion of the experienced veterans in combat who sort of buddied up to him. Run by some Hag Witch of the Moon Illith, Hallowme Spiral was made up of what looked to be 26 Hollowed Out Trees, two meeting halls, 8 cottages made from stone and brick. Two large cabins, 13 houses, a few refurbished temples. It also had a blacksmith, carpenter shop, a wood mill outside its walls, pottery craftsman, mason, small barn. Outside the main walled perimeter of the Hallowme houses two rings on hills merging into the main one. A dwarf temple carved from stone surrounded by five houses made from brick and logs. One roadhouse, village lodge, and small manor rested on a ring which had the road cutting through it. Within one of the rings Andylle some other sights and structures among the buildings. A training dummy at the ring with the temple, a scare crow near some sunflowers, and cornstalks, small field, birdhouse tower, large keg, a few spit fires, and over a dozen shred fires set up. Four horses at a trough close to a well where a donkey was being tended by a wandering friar. This friar was eyeing those who lived within the walls. 

Inhabitants included a shepherd with twelve or more sheep, some goats herd by a blackwater dog while coming along the fence. A trio of boar hunters assisted by a peasant carried their kill on a long branch through a back entrance. One boar hunter held a hunting falcon that scared the peasant who was then made fun of by the apprentice trailing behind them. Some gaggle of geese herded by a goose herd raced through the area. One farm boy feeding two calves from a different farm. He is assisted by a female farmhand wearing traditional overall dress. Another female farmhand by the bard carried a pale while holding a pet pig on a leash. By the sunflowers and corn stalk, small farm-garden a third dark haired farmhand wielding a pick fork. In her other arm she carried a basket of corn. An apothecary Dwarf, shackled sorceress tackled a scarecrow in the farm patch. Near the farmed section a flower maid with a basket pranced around as if she was intoxicated on something. Peldo flowers was the first thing Andylle thought of when he saw her spin and prance. As they approached the Meeting Hall his unit did not have much use for him at the moment. 

Andylle was let off the hook by the Captain and Major. Wandering around Andylle saw a little more of this Hag Witch run settlement. By one of the hollowed-out trees called Hallowmes a trio of militia had an apprentice climbing up a rope. By their Hallowme sat a large rabbit cage where two owls watched from the branches. Between the other trees, sheds, Andylle spotted a family of Lenai with a dancing bear. One played the tambourine; the father played the Shawm player while the daughter was the bear tamer. Four deer raced past the settlement further into the wilderness of Blackmell. He thought one of them looked similar to a large antlered camel without the hump. Checking out from the edge of the wall he spied two ducks or more in a pond likely preparing to migrate. 

No one bothered him as he roamed around discovering more of the settlement in lower parts of hills. Plenty of trees scattered around with new trees sprouting out of them. At one of the wells Andylle found a billboard with news articles on it. Articles concern a Neolithid found in a tunnel outside a mining town no thanks to the Nazdar expeditions. Some Meenlock was discovered under a city close to Gontrella, Muskallan border. One of the kegs of ale may have 64 mugs left inside it. Ranger's Guile campsite of Bisdolan style was discovered by a Driver of the Dead near a font baptize of fortunes shrine along the foothills of Blackmell. One group of Contractors took advantage of some daughter over unpaid debts rather than murder the family or beat up the youngest member of the family that was not an infant or toddler. His eyes were about to read another article when they spotted a cauldron sitting on a chest stuck within the wall. Next to it sat a throne covered in overgrowth. 

Andylle's attention was returned to the interior as two militia in wide brimmed hats rode through the fenced in settlement on horseback. Their movement drew his gaze towards the Meeting Hall in the northern part where he spotted the cow milker and her farm boy helpers. Summoned to over to this Meeting Hall where he briefly met this Hag Witch who is in control. Her own protection and militia included a Gontrellan Old Guard, 2 beast hunters, ranger, 2 ruffians, one bowman, pair of executioners, 4 Uxane, camping cannibal, lone wolf, a Gnoll, 2 riders. Among these lackey-henchmen she commanded 2 cannoneers who worked several or more cannons. Each came with half a score of cannonballs to fire at any attackers. This Hag Witch Matron possessed 6 wolves, 6 war dogs, vipers in a basket, 4 passels of pigs kept for eating. These pigs would be set out into the wilderness so they can hunt them down like boars, once they are fully grown. Others included 4 female pets, an eagle rogue from Ossus. One pair of fishermen who looked like they had seen horrors and were on their way out. Aside from the hunters, and farmhands she governed fifteen other commoners who flocked to her for protection. This Meetin Hall they just entered could host 160 people with little room left over. It was three stories deep into the hill. One barrel of ale, a cauldron of soup for each guest who entered. Hanging from the ceiling was a training dummy dressed up like their own monarch with daggers, and arrows littering it. 

His unit were not the first to arrive to this Hag Witch's domain. They took seats as a female noble, an envoy from the Hexagonal Alliance brought six months' worth of food as a sign of good faith. While sitting down he spotted someone familiar among the envoy and ambassador troop. His own unit grabbed his attention as their commanders came up to this Hag Matron after the envoys sat back down. One of them mentioned a small castle manned by 26 soldiers loyal to their constitutional monarch Cen-Abalon. Another mentioned this Hag's other command of five half-Orc, nine Troglodytes, four Orcs who used the Dwarf Temple carved from stone. Her hag voice broke the silence. 

"Just get the reinforcements to the front! Keep those other Hags in check! You got just what over a thousand Hag Militia for some five hundred tribesmen, sixteen hundred Gontrellans to handle? Now what would we do about seven hundred fifty Forsaken Dwarves, and Elves? Civilized societies cast them out. Towards the northeast we have five hundred forty-eight Coal Goblins go on strike and pick up arms." This Hag sounded more like she was giving the complaints and pleas. 

"All are loyal to the Monarch." Major Kenos responded. 

"That still didn't stop some groups from attacking me. Nor did it stop this phony gang war or tribal war outside Hunter's Edge. This V.U.V.R. has begun moving in further into Blackmell territory. Also there is an infiltrator operating in the eastern parts of Gontrella.-" she was cut off when a Satyr-Zunia Puck male rushed into the Meeting Hall. 

"Matron Noel Blewcome I sp-spotted some two hundred or more V.U.V.R. war camp mastiff hounds near the border with handlers." the Satyr reported to the Matron as if she was the highest rank or the main governor. 

"Stam the Satyr Grove Dancer, are there more coming?" She demanded. 

"One unit of one hundred forty-three proven combatants of the V.U.V.R. were spotted south of the Mastiff positions. The first wave of units had not moved in twenty-two days." Stam answered backing away. 

"Twenty-two days passed before they moved forward huh?" 

Stam the Satyr was about to speak when some commotion outside drew their attention towards entrances. Andylle hid under the table as gunfire tore into the silence. Normally he was accustomed to this situation because of drugs getting in the hands of the easily addicted lunatics. This situation was different for him. As he peeked from under the table a group of sixty-six armed Gontrellans wearing blue n orange arm bands rushed inside. They wasted no time in taking down occupants of the Meeting Hall. Vestrisians were among them taking command of the group. In moments 17 of their own unit pounced on fellow Gontrellans joining these revealed traitors. Most of the soldiers, militia, and guards fell from this sudden assault. Inside the levels of the Meeting Hall a mix of gunfire, screams, shouts, furniture getting toppled over, glass or mugs shattering. Whoever was not a combatant made attempts to flee the building. Whether they were hit with bullets, tripped over furniture, or tripped over bodies it did not matter as some found themselves prisoners, hostages. Once everything quieted down the attackers o Hallowme Spiral started setting up their own base of operations. He got out from under the table with his hands up when he was commanded to do so. Lars stood before him armed with a pistol wearing civilian clothing with a V.U.V.R. flag as an armband. 

Andylle's heart skipped a beat when he saw his own colleague and friend as a traitor. His body felt numb, paralyzed from the sudden shock of seeing his own pal betray a country a grew up in. All this time Lars was working with the enemy as the infiltrator. In his mind he hoped this was not true. He had to be dreaming right now. Reports about Kuruks and Gnolls attacking the first Vestrisian Units echoed in his mind as one of the turncoats reminded the others. Standing there stunned Andylle allowed other people to bind his hands behind his back. Apprehended in a section of the meeting Hall twelve Broags or Hag Servants, 18 Gontrellan soldiers and one Alchemist saw preparations for something. Whoever Lars worked with set up their operation quickly while forcing the prisoners to clear out the bodies. A cruel thing to do for those who were calling themselves liberators. At least they respected the corpses. R

Days went by during their captivity by these traitors and Vestrisians who monitored the frontlines. Andylle wondered if Diron City, Dimcabul, Domoron Mountain City of Dwarves, Haldiron Mountain, Vussaryan Dynasty, or Prolux Kingdom were behind all this. As he worked as a working prisoner, he could hear conversations between themselves about the frontlines. One report involved 518 Kuruk Skull Cleavers, 330 members of the Bitter Bow Gnoll tribe, 712 Kuruk Abominations, 397 Stalking Predator Beasts assaulting V.U.V.R. positions. Along the Flurry of Horns Peaks, this assault came against 267 V.U.V.R. personnel, and three other units. South of Brushie Town the brigade called Massed Horde engaged some company sized VUVR units. One of those units called the Sand Steppe Outcasts estimated to have 210 members. Another unit of 390 V.U.V.R. personnel called themselves the Kiln Fiends took Utter Hill in the central east. Gontrellans retaliated by sending Dagger Drome Imps, Hazada Snare Soldiers, Celestian City Enforcer Clerics, Boggart Brute Goblins after the Vestrisians at the border. Losses included 588, 158, 285, 411 dead, 1153 wounded, 330 taken prisoner. Their own coasts suffered invasions such as unit of 300 Knights of the Tusk Order from Boathria arrived. 

Mobilization was now in full progress between Gontrella, and Muskalla. There were other units being sent along with notable ones. Names of these units included the Masked Black Guards 387 of whom made it to the front quickly. A second notable one consisted of 666 Tribal Blade Berserkers from the borders, 313 Staunch Shield Mates moved towards the Boathrians who landed. Others included 325 Rage Throwers, 242 Dead Eye Rig Haulers from the western ports. Muskall sent over 386 Azirai Smoke Shapers who are originally from Talus. One of the radio people mentioned another unit of 314 Staunch Shield Mates arrived from Vodwania. One outsider unit of 433 Onakki Ogres are sent over by the Gantronese invaders. 

Their location remained untouched for weeks, showing how much communication was lacking in this region. V.U.V.R. forces pressed further inland. This was forcing Gontrella to sent in its aircraft intended for the Boathrians which were a member state of the V.U.V.R. Andylle overheard that their own Apex Hawks aircraft started making sorties along the mountainous borders. While Gontrellan loyalists bombed the mountainous regions their location needed to be changed. Going further with their infiltration they pressed north. To them it appeared the best option right now. As the hills were left alone and the Hags were wiped out by loyalists. To the north of the Hag Hills there resided a Scientist who was wanted by the six Zhenrai Orders of Calorn. Known as Dr. Shelhoff this scientist was known to unveil up to 353 Entombed zombies along with 358 stitched assistant zombies. According to some witnesses he acted like a rambunctious mutt about it. How the infiltrators and the Vestrisians present managed to recruit him was big mystery. A scary one to those who know of his nightmarish exploits. None of his creations were ready to move on their own at the time of their arrival. These became deadweights already as more V.U.V.R. forces pressed their advance. 

Al-Dadoria: Seek the Wilds

 Done with life as a civilian constantly under attack or witness to crimes, Yatil decided to report the attack. After that he chose to enlist in his mind. Five years ago, a beautician was murdered before his very eyes. Outside a blacksmith shop this beautician was stabbed over getting the wrong piece forged. Mainly over hair styles, manicures and treatments seemed extreme and crazy to murder someone. It was really over the amount of Eclipses the metal hairband cost to forge in terms of Eclipses. These Eclipses were the currency of Al-Dadoria. 

When he arrived at the recruiting station, Yatil revealed he was currently an arcane user. In full industrial military uniform of the standard V.U.V.R. style sat a fellow Al-Dadorian with a full beard, his hands clasped together. This very recruiter informed him of a special unit within the Al-Dadorian military forces. Yatil sat down to listen. This unit was a makeshift battalion of 600 which he set himself up to join. Around the same time Al-Dadoria rallied some 150,000 more to fight Vullan. News spread all over Al-Dadoria's islands as they were dragged into the Valde conflict. Vullan gave an inspiring charge in the form of an assault on some islands that keep getting mixed with Vullanese territories, and other city-states. North of Al-Dadoria this attack occurred over a grouping of islands and islands called the Javexo Shields. Just 229 islands are shared between Al-Dadoria, Vullan, and some other island city-states. Some notable ones were Aneron, Mabridge, Naxnonoth, and one called the "Crispy City." 

Just those islands were under attack by Vullanese forces. Yatil and 600 others played various roles while Al-Dadoria sent a small horde of different groups after the Vullanese. Other than 250,000 personnel Al-Dadoria's government managed to rally various groups, gangs, or clans from various island states. Groups such as the Nimble Blades from Khenra Isle brought in 414 members to fight alongside Al-Dadorians. From different military orders, and other states some 156 Militant Monks, 360 Fearless Halberdiers, 313 Dwarf Staunch Shield mates to join this fight. More personnel were transferred to other fronts. Despite the modernizing era, mechanized weaponry archers or bowmen still found their uses. One company of 266 Archers/Riflemen fortify Archer Parapet Walls alongside 397 others on some islands in the east coast of the Sultanate. About 515 members of the Underdark Lizard Explorer's Guild enlisted since no one could really explore anywhere else. Scavenging, and Salvaging being reduced lured 268 Salvage Scouts from Ottante, Zekmar regions. From the islands of Vullan 266 Frontline rebels joined the fight while 353 Ornery Island Goblins aid Al-Dadoria. That added almost 3,000 more defenders to the forces already engaging the Vullanese forces in the northern islands. 

 

Yatil's large unit of 600 underwent combat training with Vestrisians, and Al-Dadorians for three months. His own Flat was managed by Shetpo and Ensa who visited a few times to watch him toil in the training. One day during training his unit witnessed a convoy of camels being escorted by 700 Fearless Halberdiers of the Sultanate. Used as transportation of weaponry, and military equipment 1,620 Dromedary Camels, and 222 of the Solitary Camels often found in Ottante became necessary. The reason was to keep a steady stream of supplies in case fuel ran out in vehicles. Among such supplies included weapons, rations, ammunition, utensils, gear, kits, ingredients, cloth, and wool. T.M. 13 bolt action rifles, E-7 repeating rifles, 7mm submachine guns, Lever Rifles were likely among those weapons. As part of their training, they sent a small unit to the center of the country. Yatil's unit headed towards a lake in the central position of the main largest island. Just a squad of them took a cartographer over there to produce a map of this lake. Known as Lake Al-Sabbath this land locked body of water appeared fertile with foliage growing into the water. Their goal was to escort this cartographer in training to the lake and back. In the middle of the night, they were harassed by others only to find they could not get to their target. By morning everyone found the cartographer in a tree. 

 

Two weeks after their bootcamp training ended his unit was sent to the bordering islands of the Javexo Shields, and the 660 Perfagon Shields. What was their job in these waters? Patrolling the islands between Al-Dadoria, and Vullan while steering clear of Vidothra's islands. Using three row boats attached to fish Dhow-Brigs. Two Dhow Brigs acting as fishing boats depart from the southwestern coasts to meet them. On a grouping of twenty-one islands and islets they rendezvoused at a garrison of 124. Twenty of their own, 18 foreign volunteers, 39 VUVR personnel, 47 freebooters who used nine of the islands. Getting there took four days because of winding roads. Plus, the delays did not help. 

 

Adding 600 more to the defenders revived morale. Just on the Javexo Islands a force of 1,200 Al-Dadorians fended off a force of Vullanese zealots. Most of the attackers found themselves prisoners, wounded then prisoner, dead, stranded on islands, missing, or with their tails tucked between their legs in retreat. For weeks Al-Dadorian forces waited for a second round of attacks. Only skirmishes scattered along the islands happened every few days with mixed results. Ten days of fighting did not bode well for either side before it went down to just isolated skirmishes. Al-Dadoria did not field enough troops or personnel. Vullan did not have enough to spare and crush Al-Dadoria's smaller forces currently active. Coming up to these islands Yatil heard the names of some of them, Intense Cave, Nimel, Poppas. What their Brigs brought over to this rendezvous included 500 assorted submachineguns, 646 handguns, 900 carbines, bolt action rifles, 34 artillery pieces, 2 new rotating turrets to mount on any surface. Other weapons did include early versions of the anti-tank rocket launcher, Gloster 47 HMGs, 4-Hands shotguns, Gorine pistols, A-76 pistols. Ammunition for these guns came into the same crates already loaded into the magazines, cartridges, and drum magazines. 

 

Once everything was unloaded Yatil's own unit of 600 divided each other up into groups. For both Dhow-Brigs 68 were hand-picked to sail the two vessels. A total of thirty-eight days became the planned timetable or time frame for their patrol. Using sailed vessels would throw off the opposing side for a time. Being part of this crew as an arcane user made Yatil feel useful for some situations. Their Officer in command became Captain "Beautiful" Camilla Topaz had him help a photographer capture as much of the scenery, enemy ships, enemy positions as possible. Disguised as a neutrally aligned vessel they moved along Vullanese-Al-Dadorian isles while playing the part as a merchant ship. To avoid being sunk Topaz ordered the photographer Humbee Yackim to photograph as little as possible. 

 

For days they blended in while going through the Vullanese portion of the Javexo Shields. Yatil aided Humbee in photographing structures on the islands. As they progressed through the Javexo Shield islands they spotted 3 pill boxes, 4 building corners turned to machine gun/artillery positions, 3 artillery positions tucked behind a rock formation, 2 trucks, and 2 tanks. Each rested on some islands that also possess a few dwellings or settlements. One consisted of a fresh market store, woodland post office, small train station connecting islands, a diner, one small municipal building next to a fire station. Docked at some island settlement called Stonemarsh their vessel was loaded with goods intended for this one. Merchandise set for the very neutral state they disguised themselves as remained.  Here they heard an interesting set of conversations. Mainly at the docks this one sounded lengthy as it dragged into noon to dusk. This conversation was apparently public as there was a crowd gathered at the docks. Not something they wanted to see, but it was getting dark. It went more like a once sided argument with two or more involved with an audience. One of their own crew members recognized one of the voices as that of Frank the Fake Mobster. Lucky for them, it was on a Vullanese-Vidothran Vessel. For now, Vidothra and their Nazdar masters were neutral in this new Valde conflict. 

 

"Allow him to find someone or we start killing people off, got it." Mob Boss Frank blurted in a 

 

"Paint a better picture of him or they kill us all you stupid cunts." Pastor who just saw some nice

 

"Yes, I am hybrid, yes I am horny for that Zunia-Puck!" he shouted at the crowd while on board the Corvette called High Cobra, near the Destroyer Cosmic Snake, which they managed to slip behind. 

 

"Allow him to have what he wants in terms of a woman. This will only get worse." 

 

"How does it look-Sverx it. Who is he going to marry now, fat ogre?" 

 

Preferring not to listen anymore they attempted to block out this conversation or issue over a youth's desires. Certain he would find a mate at some point they the liars ignored their part of this night. Captain Topaz did not want these civilians to discover them as the youth's voice caught the crowd's attention. Some even started to break from the crowd shaking their heads in disappointment. She ordered the mages and arcane users to cast some spells. One used the confusion smell after clambering off the ship like a lizard while hiding behind some crates. Another cast the Isol Illusion spell to make it appear there was nothing behind the Corvette warship. Several spells of manipulation cast from a distance had to be performed from behind the crowd convincing more members to go home. One Mana Barrier was cast in front of the portside loading ramps to create an invisible wall. A stun bolt was used on a nosy member of the crowd who sauntered over to where they thought they saw sails. Levitation some came useful to hiding their vessel from this crowd who was started to break apart.

 

Once the coast was clear, the crowds were gone Topaz watched this youth linger after everyone else was gone around 1:00 am. Showing she had a heart of gold behind the scarred chest Topaz sent a recruiter over to him. She had a thing for staying on board ships. Some said it was her curves. Others because of her prosthetic left leg. Blackburn the Hashashin rogue aged 37 acted as the recruiter while the mages returned to the ship, running back like a pack of cats, lizards, and scared rats. Not caring at all what this looked like, Blackburn abducted this crying youth. Yatil could tell what went through their Captain's mind. If a community treats a person like this then why can't they exile them to another one. One they would feel appreciated in. 

 

Whatever their vessel had for a brig-prison was left wide open or unlocked. It was Topaz's way of showing they were not holding the youth prisoner. Calling himself "Nagev" the youth's real name was Tillahm Richbelly. He worked as a Drayman who delivered beers to the Stevedore longshore men, dock workers at some waterfronts on larger islands near Asnar. Mainly for two different alcohol brands, Heavy Lime Dragon, and Spotted Dragon. Hired by the settlement lord's chamberlain, a senior royal official in charge of managing a royal household, he delivered each brand of alcohol to the lord's mansion. At first it sounded boring for Tillahm until he mentioned how eleven voluptuous beauties would be stuffed by imps and goblins each month for entertainment. A forty-year tradition for the western islands done with intercourse in mind. They witnessed an event like this on an island near a neutral state while traveling with the Chamberlain. Other forms of entertainment did involve music, dances, some games, races, gambling, dueling. Topaz gave Tillham to the cook as an assistant after listening to his story knowing the one-eyed bull of a man needed help. 

 

Still taking photos of structures Yatil and Humbee managed to capture a photo of a rubber factory on an island close to Tillahm's former home island. One of 23 Barrowson Rubber factories all over Calorn this facility produced at most 899,775 or more pieces per factory. Not the highest turnout, but it did make the Barrowson family profits. Barrowson was not the only company producing rubber. One of three rubber producing companies safely outside the invader's influence and control. Conditions of factory workers were unknown, but the cog work automatons at work sped production up. 

 

Taking his mind away from factories Yatil looked through a mounted telescope. On an island closest to the city-state of Puirus Kingdom (west of Asnar), he spotted an abandoned old-style aircraft that crashed into the sands of that island. Continuing to take photos they caught a statue of some draconic sea beast. Carved into the rock this winged stone monster appeared menacing despite the buildup of seaweed, and sea life. Both could manage a long look after the second shot with the camera. From the northwest four planes flew overhead. Each appeared more like the Vidothran version of Vullan's own aircraft with smaller engines on the ends of the wings. None of these aircraft attacked their vessel proving the disguise was perfect. According to a sailor this meant the Vidothrans naval arrival. They were not wrong about that. Three Heavy AA transporters, fifteen various ships headed straight for the two sets of islands. Eager to avoid any attention Captain Topaz ordered for them to head straight for the neutral state of Aneron. Just east of Mabridge, and southeast of Naxnonoth this city state seemed perfect. 

 

Not sure what was going to happen, Topaz had the radio crew tap into all radio frequencies. Yatil and Humbee kept the civilian camera out. Their main Render 8-3 camera had to be rolled up in a sea resistant tarp, and netting with oar pieces in the mix. Attempting to play the part as a merchant ship Topaz allowed crates of gems, pearls, tobacco, cinnamon. In order to ward off the merchants attempting to load their goods on their vessel Topaz gave gifts. As part of the plan Al-Dadoria loaded the captain's cabin with treasures to give away. An expensive telephone, a sword of some Mollusk Deity, photo album of various beauties. One set of Arcanist Padding leather with studded portions. Some mysterious lamp with a trident with crescent cutting through it, a gold statue, gold scepter in a sack. A chest full of coins, necklaces, sate of pirate pitcher with a plate and goblets. One small gold chest full of coins, 2 other trunks full of treasure, some gold spiked shackles, a black arrow, and a gold horse breast collar. Eight of these were handed to merchants to buy them off. She signaled them to launch from Aneron's ports. Speeding her way back to Al-Dadoria Topaz did not leave the helm. 

 

At full speed they took a day and a half to reach the close nit settlements of Al-Dadoria's northern portion. Dock 1010 of Oppan Issechin, slammed between two port cities of Axemonkey, Cracked Jewel, possessed some resemblance of a port. A few pier docks, two shops, a kiosk, some former pirates hide out prison dock, old pirate lodge stronghold, sea plane at dock, privateer Schooner, modern yacht, 2 old style port dock with towers, and 9 row boats. Stepping off their ship after docking they are greeted by 62 dockworkers, 9 armed sailors, 5 constables, one port guard. A couple of fishermen ignored them, going about their daily catches. One by one or in groups their disguises were blown to their own countrymen who rather enjoyed the ruse. Topaz went up to the captain or leader of the sailors. 

 

A Lieutenant Bagcrab informed Topaz the positions in Javexo Shields were attacked by 5,000-7,000 Vullanese-Vidothrans, Vullanese aligned forces. Along Al-Dadorians eastern coasts Vullanese forces attacked at three locations. From the other sailors they heard that various humanoids launched their won attack against Al-Dadoria. Not given any more details, the crew went for the cafes to revive themselves with brewed coffee. Some ordered tea while the rest consumed coffee and wild beverages. Yatil went to a table outside the cafe to sit alone. It was nothing personal, he just wanted to be alone to get a good look at this port. One foreigner's pub made from 22 or more ships hold cover doors, four empty storage containers. At this pub a group of privateers, former pirates with tattoos, hung around getting drunk for fun. This group consisted of fifteen Dark Elves, half-goblins, half-elves, orcs, one half kuruk, and goblins who drank themselves to their own delight. 

 

One of the Orcs was seven foot tall dressed in the usual seaman's attire with a leathery seaworn vest. Yatil's gaze focused on him, which caught the Orcs’ attention. Not something he wanted this afternoon. One of the Dark Elves pointed that out to the others who called the Orc by his name encouraging him to approach Yatil. Known as Rojad Rojag Gorddell this Orc approached Yatil's table. He looked down as the Orc made his way to him. Appearing drunk, this Orc slurred his words then showed a necklace or amulet of bones. This action upset his fellow crewmembers, fifteen of whom lost their lives to this Orc alone. In the drunken Orc rage this Orc beat a dozen of Yatil's own unit into the hard surface of the port. Yatil could have sworn he soiled himself as he watched his fellow fighters get handed to them. Al-Dadoria's laws penalized take the lives of any women, children, elderly, crippled, mentally ill, or wounded. Self-defense killings were justified, especially in public. In private the defender may have to spend a week in prison, and one year at sea. Over greed then the offender, if in defense, would be required to live outside the borders of Al-Dadoria. In Rojad's case his self-defense, despite it being a drunken rage, was justified. More than one attacker or harasser caused confrontation thus attempting to gang up. Yatil could speak for himself, but kept his mouth shut when Captain Topaz got up. Topaz blew up in the Orc's face, but her face was level with his torso. She expected an explanation for his drunken manners. What she did not expect was to appease this Orc as an apology or she found herself shark bait. This Orc was drunk, but no excuse for her being forced to bathe on the beach part of the port. A Mage had to convince the privateers to leave them alone and leave one coin per death. Yatil and the remnants of Topaz's crew rested for three days. Those three days went by fast with them attempting to shake off the loss of colleagues and witnessing their captain be humiliated. As soon as the third day became the fourth, they found themselves on a train back to the northeast. Joined by 646 other Al-Dadorian personnel, and the privateers who killed their fellow crew. Something Topaz did not tolerate yet was forced to accept by superiors. Except the Orc was sent to another crew that was engaging Vullanese fleets as a sentence. 

 

Back at the front they discovered their colleagues took out 1,200 hooded zealots. fanatics, capturing 961 prisoners. They even sent 264 spawns to their deaths, 397 are sent into retreat. Slaves were found among the encampments on the Vullanese occupied islands. Al-Dadoria's 1,200 Kharal's Oscuran Crimsons found 576 slaves. 193 of whom came under their care, 332 fled and rest died in the fighting. Just 777 of the K.O.C.'s force still stood by the time Yanil arrived back at the islands. Gaining thirteen islands their brigade of 3,000 or more only had nine days before the Vullanese and their allies launched another assault. Over 5,000-7,000 Kuruks, Satyrs, Ogres, Vullanese, Vullan's allies, Nazdar Grevaskii volunteers backed by 1,800 half-demons from Syrianos. At the frontlines Yatil's fellow defenders fought off this wave across a few larger islands. Using modern weapons with melee weapons they fought off the first waves from the most well defended positions. Yet it pressed on despite the losses, forcing them to fend off attacks from their flanks. Some islands were used to ambush or harass the assaulting forces just to chip away at the enemy forces, which sort of grew. Their own defending forces grew in size while they still kept larger forces in reserve in case attacks came from the west north, and east. Watching the fight from behind Al-Dadorian lines Yatil sent off a few spells against ay break throughs in defenses. Shocking or burning those enemies helped take over four thousand enemies. Right behind him their own artillery sent a fiery cannonade bombarding several positions on other islands. Over an hour or two they bombarded the Vullanese positions forcing them and their allies to retreat. Several days passed before the weather disrupted movement with a light storm. Rain came down for three days straight on the Javexo, Perfagon Shields. This allowed Al-Dadoria's defenders of the southern Javexo Shields to scout the area. 

 

Aboard thirty-six vessels (motorboats, and skiffs) Al-Dadorians scoured the islands that saw the most fighting. Close to twenty-one-thirty-four islands came under their zone of operations. Tens of thousands of corpses littered those islands, floated around the shallows, by reefs along with gear, and weapons. Among the dead they found 443 Skoffos Island Kuruks from Yasolle. A total of 963 Canyon Clan Kuruks, 414 Vullanese, Vullanese aligned Pulse Trackers of various races. In terms of elites they found 356 Death Blow Kuruk Berserkers, 226 Hoplite Satyrs who acted blood crazed fighters, 374 Ogre Spawn, Orcs, Kuruk spawn, all with one eye. According to a veteran they were called Ill Tempered Cyclops due to having one eye. While rowing in shifts they found some of their own wounded, and their comrades who became prisoners. Most mentioned defiant Ogres who fought on. Their own scouts calculated 291 more among the dead combatants. 

 

Other combatants and humanoids found among the dead revealed different factions were involved other than those city-states aligned with Vullan. About 210 Stone Steppe Outcasts from Muskalla, 259 Insectoid-Imp-Demons called Chilleaz Skirge sent over by the Nazdar invaders. These onyx-colored insectoid humanoids possessed several sets of red bug eyes, maws, pincers, or fangs for mouths, arms like a grasshopper mixed with mantis and humanoid legs with spikes. Their appearances sent a shiver up and down the spine. Most of them looked away from these creatures. Setting foot on another island that was littered in corpses, weapons debris, scattered gear, helmets, limbs, blood spots, and entrails that dyed the sand in a darkish red color. Not the prettiest sights to be held even if the foliage caught their eye. Yatil spotted plenty of swords, bayonets, guns, unused grenades, daggers, clubs, maces, axes, machetes, spearheads, war picks, sickles, thirty-eight of which his own unit collected out of curiosity and awe. The swords he saw included rapiers, sabers, badelaires, scimitars, Yataghans, falcatas, Katanas, fist daggers, punch daggers, cleavers revealed a certain group found in Nymres, Gontrella, City-states such as Olia, Joshar, Kath Odrus, Midnight Duelists. Among the dead, or wounded combatants they found 271 of these duelists. Moving towards other islands their scouts found areas where their artillery bombarded. Between 538-1,078 Vullanese combatants died in the fiery cannonade bombardments. 

 

Among weapons, scattered gear, equipment, destroyed structures lay Vullanese Bishop Soldiers, Riphook Raiders, Dungeoneers, Sentinels, Ward Gate Keepers, Samurai sent by Gantronese, Cathars, Foot soldiers, Sergeant -at-Arms, mages, and skirmishers. Vullan did send others such as their own Paladins, bombers, death cultists, and acrobat assassins. When Topaz radioed Head Quarters, she was given some grim orders she had to share. For some corpse appraisers they brought over 302 corpses each day from this third important battle over Al-Dadoria. Several days went by with hardly any events that involved the Vullanese. Not buying the silence Al-Dadoria unleashed encampment keeper hounds that brought or dragged over 290-300 Vullanese hiding among the islands. Yatil's own unit returned to these islands to collect any weapons from seventy-one islands. Mainly out of interest they managed to convince their commanders to permit them to collect enemy weapons. Thirty-two other units made a similar trip to scavenge weapons, and loot what they can. In the skies a trio of their own Sheikh Dagger56s flew in air patrol patterns. Most of the air battles occurred closest to the north, and eastern coasts. Their end was mainly left with barely any air support. Confident in their air defenses while Vullan was focused on VUVR aircraft Yatil's own got a head start on some other islands. Their own finds included 89 intact rifles, Folteri Bolt action rifles, Windkisser23s, lever action rifles, 78 functioning pistols, 4 alien weapons from the Skirge corpses, which they stabbed or shot in case they got up. A dozen submachine guns, 23 various swords, 18 axes, 8 crossbows, hammers, wrenches, trinkets, 953 coins in Vullanese Currency. 

Moving deeper into two islands they found some interesting discoveries after lugging their own finds back to HQ then returning the location they raised their flag on. Just exploring these two islands connected by a broken bridge their platoon sized unit found five campsites with seven abandoned campfires each camp was encircled by eleven or more rock formations. Cluttered along the camps they found some wheels to wagons, wagon pieces, fence pieces, plenty of goblets, mugs, one or more plates, some storage chests, some kegs, barrels. Pales could be found made from different materials used for various purposes. Each camp had bowls scattered all over, and one cauldron tipped over. One spit with partially eaten meat still rested with the fire dead from the rain. Some of the camps possess some fine candle sticks showing that commanders resided there. Most of them had stools, others had a few fallen trees as seats. One of them had the finest looking table and chairs. A pitcher still rested on a barrel next to the table with fine chairs. On the table rested some keys, a leather coin purse, idol statue to the Vullanese deity. On the finest chair, which was wet they found a crown and a wet royal cape over the chair's back. Towards the back they found a horse at a trough where four saddles rested next to it. Behind this horse sat a now broken weapons rack that possessed two severed heads, and hair pieces. This show of brutality was a little off for the Vullanese. Looking around a little more after snagging the horse, which complained about being taken away they spotted five wolves prowling through the foliage. Three birds flew away from some branches as seven dogs, possibly hungry chased four pigs that ran amuck scaring or disturbing two snakes from the foliage. An Eagle flew from a tree towards the other side of the island. 

Not sure when their next meal would be Yatil's unit slaughtered the animals using their rifles. Certain this would appease any other scouting parties that found this island they gathered up what they found. While collecting up 7 swords, 14 daggers, 2 spears, sash with sheath holes, 3 lances, two shields, antique pistol, bullet proof cuirass vest, scaled armor, 3 axes, on bow, 3 flails, 4 banners, 3 flags, and trident one of them discovered a boat with paddles. Among the other finds included a hair piece for a bald member, a sailor's cap given to Yatil, a kitesail wing, another chest full of clothing and a skull. This chest, after being pried open also possessed a map, and contract decree. Loading up their own vessels they went back to see what they missed. Further exploring one island they found four cannons or artillery with a cannon crate, 14 cannon balls, free fire braziers that would be too heavy to bring all at once. One weathered dragon statue was found that had to be from old Perfagon Empire era. This statue became a home to a rabbit that ran back when it saw them. All these finds were not new to them except for another intriguing find, a group of pirates with what had to be civilians among them. Two swashbucklers, a hag witch, hunter-ranger, three bowmen, a Dwarf, Sorceress, one guard pirate, some bloated looking one, and what had to be a former knight gone pirate. 

 

 

Al-Dadoria: Just Living

A show of confidence is all he needed, but what could he do to show he possessed this trait?  His own friends Shetpo, Meno, Kerdju, Nemdju, Hatasut, Ensa all encouraged him to show off his talent of animated or levitating objects into structures, or levitating vehicles, or illusion. That was something most arcane users knew how to do. He graduated the previous year. In the Carab Carbaretti Courtyard he sat among a full seating of 553 people. All of them seated to watch the Bond of Discipline. All of them seated to watch the Bond of Discipline. Also called the ritual or ceremony of graduation of 6 out of 264 pupils. These six graduating pupils had three orders to choose from. Yatil Secen noted the Void Wielders, which had 347 members. Each member practices Void spells of the Oblivion, the nonexistent powers, or subtractive spells. Another order called the Dronnith Order Healers who were 384 strong in membership. He was a member of the Arcane Caravan Vigil which held 437 members. 

He sat down next to a woman closest to his own age or older. Chloe Amata Al-Ebetee, a guest who was invited over by Master Arch Sage Haatim Al-Azad. Her own occupation as an Estate Agent sort of dwarfed his own profession as Runecrafter for the Arcane Caravan Vigil. Yatil barely got a word in about his order before a lesson before the ceremony begin. Lorehold apprentice Emil Nehpets gave a tale of history from their campus lore of how a summoned Inkling ruined a lesson, cancelling classes for the day. To the lore holder it was an enthusiastic one until the same thing happened again. The audience laughed and chuckled.

"Thank Cesvian he didn't choose a boring tale..." 

Yatil could not agree more with the person behind him. Even though it was only six pupils graduating it lasted for two hours. Several people nearly fell asleep due to their age, while some fell asleep due to a long day. Each of the graduating pupil performed a spell after their own brief speech to the audience.  Carab Carbaretti's nine mentors, sages, and masters gave their praises, advice along with encouragement to these pupils. One of them had their eyes find Yatil in the audience and gave him a cruel stare out of jest. Yatil attempted to stifle and chuckle and smile. Once it was over Yatil hopped to his feet almost stepping on a Dune Beetle that made its way through gaps. She saw that and walked away upset even though his foot missed it by a few inches. 

Observing there would be no following date Yatil went over to his friends who sat in the back. The six of them took him to the bazaar down the street. Yatil locked around the settlement he lived in, Odrimal-Gol. Al-Dadoria has 1,658 Islands under its banner and control. Most of these islands are unclaimed, and uninhabited. Al-Dadorians claimed to have built more than 463 or more settlements. It was likely most of those settlements rested on the largest islands of Al-Dadoria. Plenty of the smaller ones scattered across the south-central portions of Valde may have dwellings, lighthouses, guard towers. Meno mentioned that at least 470 assembly workers in each of the larger settlements. In his vest, slacks, buttoned up Kwufta, hard leather loafers Meno made himself look more like a modernized manager. His slick back hair with a suave front, and black mustache on olive skin set him apart. Behind Meno Yatil spotted a snake charmer with a Rope cobra uncoiling out of a bundled-up pile of ropes rather than an actual cobra snake. It almost looked as though the snake rested on Meno's shoulder. These assembly workers assembled vehicles for Al-Dadoria once the right parts came in. Al-Dadoria has 475 Runed Servitors in each of the largest cities. 

Using Runed servitors as plows, land tools one city experienced a bountiful harvest after 838 trees are plucked. Yes, it took away trees, yet it wasn't done with fire. Al-Dadoria was also home to craftsmen, mages, sailors, fishers, healers, sages, scribes, curators, rogues, and smugglers. Aside from others Al-Dadoria was also home to 507 Meteorites still being mined for minerals. Some formed the islands of Al-Dadoria's borders. As a member of the arcane cultures Yatil knew that 1,329 Whirl Wind Adept Djinn Spawn Monks who live nomadic lives, as wanderers, act as beggars, or reside as household masters. Arcane powers is what these humanoids possessed to teacher to use in their own way. In the islands, secluded areas of Al-Dadoria dwell these 408 Underworld Horny Hermits. Yatil wanted to mention or bring this up as he was scheduled to meet both types as assigned by Master Ul-Hassinn. 

Rune crafting was becoming required less and less as the decades since technology was introduced once invented. Working as a Rune Crafter involved etching or carving arcane symbols on to artifacts or buildings then enchanting them. This was a technique and service adventurers desired less or did not make demands for. It wasn't very often that Yatil get to use his Rune crafting Skills. Sure he was a healer, but this was also an arcane trade he learned. His other arcane skills would have to wait until her used them against a hostile who attacked him. 

Speaking to his friend Shetpo, he learned their arcane skills as a Legend Lore True mind along with Illusion. They placed recordings or memories in a special form of storage like record. Another friend from this college went into woodworking or carpentry in case their arcane skills were less valued. As for the rest of his friends their occupations were set to involve healing, which will bring them to the medical field. All they were chatting about were the various wounds, spinal, or limb injuries from a variety circumstances. One of them mentioned curing a disease that kept creeping back up. Yatil's mind went to the various professions his mentor laid out for him along with the attending to Hermits. One involved working at a racing track, a Hass Hashashin Guild, Mason's Guild, Master Thieves' Guild, a Theologian's Guild, and Explorer's Guild Head Quarters. 

Outside a Market trade post, a strange suspicious figure lurked behind some crates and barrels. Between the Bimaristan and Merchant's Exotic-Foreign shop this lone suspicious made their move the moment his eyes spotted them. Yatil thought it was just his eyes playing tricks on him due to lack of hydration. Within the perimeter of the shop a songbird seller suffered a blur of blades from this assailant. It scared a woman adorned in a resplendent baroque gown of rhythmic ebbs of the past with a hint of present style. On her should was a parrot that flew away startled. Her left hand dropped a feathered fan as she screamed dropping to the lowest part of shop's porch. Every other person within several blocks or earshot turned their heads in shock, fear, confusion. Dozens fled from the scene while other bystanders stopped to watch this assailant face swift justice. Some stern looking constable in A-Dadorian Kwufta shot up this figure with an older version of the Onway revolver. Their khaki brown colored Kwufta appeared more like a wrap shirt with a diagonal pattern of buttons from shoulder to hip. Its buttons were shaped like fangs, or teeth. Most of the Kwufta came in green, gold, orange, purple, and now blue. This Kwufta wearing constable wore regular modern trousers, military shoes. 

They looked to be thirty-four years of age, just old enough to be a father a few children by now. Known as Constable Nazim Bayoushi or the Sapphire Man he was one of the 534 Infantry Veterans who were accepted as constables to beef up security for Al-Dadoria. Yes it fielded its own army, but Al-Dadoria had a force of 12,210 during peace times. An army was something this island kingdom needed to beef up in case the Vullanese or Vidothrans attacked. This new conflict could stir up some rebellious groups into action. Such rebellious groups who often went against the government included the Brigher Speaker Rebel Clerics, Novice Occultists, Errant Doomsayer Rebels. If Yatil was correct about the news just two to ten years prior about these groups, some 274 hunted witnesses were forced to drag 262 others under the same table with them. 

It involved more than half a thousand people who became victims. This was only a statistic, a number to keep track of. Nazim summoned two others towards him. Yatil overheard Hatasut nuffled, revealed in a mock tone, how the groups had lower manpower compared to Al-Dadoria's forces. These Blighter Speaker Rebel Clerics had 229 Clerics in their group at one point. These Novice Occultists' membership included some 394 fanatics, zealots, crazed acolytes. Located in the southeastern islands of Vullan the Errant Doomsayer Rebels could only field 306 members. Knowing this information made someone a suspect to investigate. Acting fast Kerdju stuffed Hatasut's mouth with something to shut up him. In a group the seven friends got up to leave the area. None of them wanted to be around the site of a murder. Hoping to avoid the authorities they attempted to disappear in the crowd. 

Back home several days later Yatil made attempts to relax after what he just witnessed. Although he was attacked by thugs, bandits, or one of the rebels Yatil still felt a little shaken by this. This was something new. He switched on the radio, ate a small meal, read through the recommendations for positions. Hermit Argol Flamegazer of the Tranquil Cove on the Western Coasts met him at a coffee shop along the outskirts. For the Hermit, the Hermit's female half Dwarf Candle Keep's rifle, his heavily armored female Lotus Warrior's gear, Agol's rusty Twin Tuned Hammer needed new runes. He mistook this female half-dwarf for a male, and the Lotus Warrior did not appear pretty either. As for the other Hermit Yatil met him at some track for horses. This one wore a large grey cloak that covered them head to toe. For this one he gave him a jar with dividers for elixir ingredients. It wasn't until the next day did the authorities come to his adobe style Flat. On some invisible leashes were Hatasut and a member to a desert mage guild from Gaskouth Ladai. Resisting arrest or this round up the authorities were doing would land him in a cell. Closing the door Yatil joined them to the town square. In his mind this could get ugly as they assembled to the area. 

It could be worse he could be sent to Naxnonoth the necromancer island city-state. A high-ranking constable stood before them. He was among a variety of people gathered. He could only get a glance of who was among the people the authorities gathered. A female Kuruk-Orc who smoked with a rather large sake jug on her lap in a maroon style Kimono dress and martial arts band around her neck. A rather tall reddish skinned Goblin shaman next to a human Al-Dadorian. A fine dressed Dark Elf Bard with white hair who was clearly adopted. One follower of the Panther goddess in their distinct outfit that was often revealing during certain seasons. One Ogre with no ears, greyish skin, large feature, shaven head except for ponytail in back of head. Some fit looking female elf warriors from Lheobethe with clothing that revealed her abs, and muscles. Yatil could have sworn he saw her roaming around armed with a Bastard Sword on her back. Or did her place a rune symbol on her weapon at one point? His attention was ripped away as a high-ranking constable stood before the gathered people. One group of 277 witnesses felt like they were being arrested to the murder that happened last week and a half. 

"No one is going to jail. That I can assure you. Magistrate Skihli Kwarizmian has spoken with Emir Kilki Stercolm, and Sheikh Ston Pakramanas. One of them will bring this up to our Sultan Goemon Tse. That attack you just witnessed was made by an assassin who is some member of some ancient order. Who here has heard of the Order of Serpents, the Shrouded Venom, The Night?" this head constable or Chief Constable mentioned. "All you have? Good. What about Razdor's Bite?" 

None of the audience members raised their hands. This group was new to Yatil as well. Each of the groups he just mentioned along with the rebel groups they were familiar with, terrified some. All groups spread terror across the Valde Islands and coasts. As for this Razdor's Bite, Yatil had no clue who this group was. Were they being told keep quiet or something? Yes, that was the case. Their own authorities were telling them to keep quiet about this Razdor's Bite group. Chief Constable Fajal Twerbi of Honswordville commanded 336 members of that city's police force sought to keep this covered up as much as possible. On one condition, Twerbi required new recruits as the 336 current ones were the only active out of 1,100 constables who retired. Hon Swordville possessed a protective neighborhood watch reducing the risk of violence or theft in the central north of Al-Dadoria. 

Before letting them go, the constable requested to have new recruits to refill the ranks. News of war encouraged ten thousand to a hundred thousand youths to enlist. Disgruntled, disturbed, creeped out, bamboozled, outraged the assembled audience dispersed. Considering the option of new recruits, he thought of the unemployed single fit male living in his Flat, Aibel Illiv. A couple of days later he came to Chief Constable Twerbi who was accompanied by a high-ranking soldier, Staff Sergeant Watti Attal with Aibel in tow. At the town square a total number of 476 fresh faced recruits arrived to become constables or guards to Hon Swordville, and a few other surrounding settlements. 

Returning to his Flat Yatil concentrated on another runce rune craft for a scimitar a vacationing Camel-Kol bodyguard sent over. Another artifact, an Arcanist Padding that came in a wrapped paper package inside a suitcase. Some elaborate suit of armor made from silken fabric that shimmers with arcane energy. Its cuffs emitted a mystical blue flame that doesn't burn to the touch. As he checked the runes he wondered if this was bullet proof. Inside the Flat's common living room, he worked on this padded armor. These runes had to be replaced as these were quickly slapped on there in a sloppy fashion. Each type of rune he worked with had to be replaced or reenchanted every ten years as he expected from his training. What he did not expect was for a dagger to come flying past his ear. Just the way this dagger flew at him meant it was a Quick Draw Dagger arcane attack move. Getting up Yatil looked around the common area of the Flat finding a figure leaping out of the window.