Mogrot and Izvar's fall

The year 1841 was approaching fast with one month left of the year 1840.  Close to a year of this conflict saw their territories reduced, and islands taken. No one was certain what would happen now as some small victories fell into Vullanese hands around the same time of a bigger defeat. A good chunk of Izvari forces crumbled before the might of the Vestrisian forces. Even though the Vestrisians defeated them in the field their progress in seizing land was slowed down. Nothing was safe from being tossed into the front. Reinforcements sort of trickled in from the supporters of Vullan. At one point they managed to push them back a little. Thanks to various spells used on the Vestrisians, which did far more damage than expected, they held ground. Mogrot kept track of the spells used on the battlefield alongside Ionephus. Another figure aided them while Ionephus fed his own addiction for Cynate through intoxication by inhaling. He would be passed out in a dazed like trance whenever found. A drug addiction like this became more frequent due to this ongoing conflict. For six years his own master was addicted to it. Ionephus' increased addictions lead to Mistress Kelda Velvet-Rose being put in charge. Voluptuous in appearance she still presents herself as a proper, organized, and independent. Her own history was put under lockdown as it would encourage her to return to Vidothra. Kelda felt forced to play mother with Ionephus and the others at times. As a mage she possessed plenty of powers, which she inherited from a Mad Wizard from Vodwania. She helped the drug addiction, but not without giving harsh criticism. What got Ionephus out of this intoxicated state was some healing spell that removed the substance from the body. Mistress Velvet-Rose entered the meeting chamber with a list of spells successfully used against the Vestrisian forces. Demolish for buildings, cobble brute elemental used against ground forces and tanks. Wall of Runes meant to block halls, alleys, doorways, tunnels in the cities. Mogrot himself use demolish on a tower near a port city. Some fearful villager, shipwreck looter, Ogre Jail breaker rogue, Elvish warrior with horns, daybreak combatants, combat professor, Armory guard, mage skirmisher, soul mender, sand craft mage and rookie came out of the debris alive. 

Another demolish spell was just used against a building that failed inspections, taking out a squad of Vestrisians. A mirror showing what happened depict this particular scene. He knew the spells worked, however extra forces, and defenses were still needed. Accord to a Vullanese Sergeant-At-Arms, about 515 spring-jaw traps were laid out. Toyol Sneads, a 29-year-old Izvari born with Galaian Dark Elf mixed in mumbled about setting those up. Mogrot detested him a little, this Galaian, since women like the tan skinned, bearded Sergeant-At-Arms. His eye caught a glimpse of a spring jaw trap being triggered by a Vestrisian Dwarf using a piece of metal pole. A m age skirmisher popped out of some pile of rubble casting a minimus containment on the Dwarf. They raced to the Aegis Automaton holding a tower shield. From that spot the skirmisher mage teleported themselves to one of the three Verdant Havens. Through the glass mirror Mogrot watched the automaton get destroyed by a tank round. One of the 35 engineers here, set up 325 of those in a section of Izvar Island. Ionephus held his gaze on a larger crystal ball, half the size of a globe. It showed a force of 295 Goblin Free Runners attacking Vestrisian forces in northern parts of Izvar's Primal Forest near Hex Rahn. 

Under the leadership of a loyal Cathar Soldier the goblin's faced a company 267 Ex Orc Pirates fighting in the VUVR ranks. As usual Vullanese forces crumbled. Both watched the Vestrisians crush these Goblins with little casualties. In Izvari forests dwell beasts such as the Hunterbeast, three of which attacked the Orc company. These beasts tore into the ranks taking out 28 Orcs before they speared them using bayonets, and retractable. Ionephus broke a goblet b slamming it into the wall. From the flanks a unit of 172 mage skirmishers launched a defiant strike on the Orcs. Multiple types of spells flew at the Orcs just as a second unit of V.U.V.R. rushed in. Most of the Mage unit died to the gunfire. Only 26 made it out of that fight through teleporting. A mixture of small victories, and minor defeats scattered along the front was all they watched until evening. 

Three days later Vullan-Izvari made another defiant strike against the Vestrisians pushing them back 1.9 leagues. Details on what happened were lost to Mogrot who was sent to the undercity of eighteen different cities. From these cities he recruited 347 scavenger Ogres to fight in Izvar. Mogrot dealth with a Key-Master Rogue hiding out. Leaving him disfigured on the face Mogrot also found a Merfolk Apothecary using wells as a way to get around. The ugly servant-mage made an attempt to recruit them, which was turned down. He returned after six days of recruiting and teleporting to find a Heavy Mattock in the hands of an Orc-Ogre returned from battle. Blood dripped from the blades of the mattock. The Ogre suffered five gunshots to the side and chest above the heart. All he could do was listen to what happened out there. He blind folded himself to avoid certain desires. 

"Our forces received 271 Abzanr clan soldiers from northwest Zekmar, 347 guardian automatons, 319 creations of forbidden alchemy for the front, 162 Arolk Wielders of Guilt." A Praetor-General pointed out on a map where the forces were sent. That push alone with combined forces freed scores of settlements. 

"Just a thousand extra feed to the maw of this conflict. Reports from arcane mages 337 confirmed disfigured combatants, 196 sailors taken by grip tide, 264 enemies taken out by summoned geists." Mistress Velvet-Rose rebuked a little. 

"How many of those are dead?" Ionephus interjected. 

"We don't know that. Our mages fled the scene." Selene replied. Another Mage of high status within their circle of command. Mogrot took a peek through his blind fold. His curiosity on who was speaking got the best of him. Her straight black hair draped over her exposed shoulders in the green armor style dress she wore. 

"Once we are done in Izvar, have the surviving mages become lost in a forest labyrinth. The punishment would be death, but we received knowledge from 289 prisoners and captives. Vullan keeps receiving aid. Thanks to accumulated knowledge we know where to send extra reinforcements. Four hundred three Blast Kuruks, 280 Instant Copper coats, 273 Sorrow Knights, 214 Wandering Champions, Sentinel, 267 knights, 287 Battle Shield Horsemen, 378 Court Street Denizens, 438 Kite Sail Skirmishers will be added to reserves. Out of good faith we received inheritances of 336 deceased or unworthy heirs-" He was interrupted. 

"Good, splendid we can perhaps pay for 374 contract killings. Maybe replace or repair the 357 defaced statues across Vullan's border islands. Do you mind if I also mention the 838 possible targets who suffered from Inferno Fist they cast on the Vestrisians? Also, the 382 Demon's summoned to fight the V.U.V.R are keeping them busy." she disrupted him before leaving the meeting. Mogrot could hear her footfalls and clipping sounds of the shoes hitting the floor. 

By the time year 1841 arrived with the spring's months Izvar was a site for stalemate. At the slopes of Mount Raph's Cat Paw, danger was widespread for either force. Despite the advantage of higher ground their forces suffered losses at something else. Close to 421 perished at the hungry talons or fangs of large spiders, which included 86 Alchemists apprentices gone out to find ingredients. Spiders were not the only danger. Aside from the beast's specter shades unchecked lurked in the area. Up to 346 fell victim to the thirsting shades on both sides together. Once again Mogrot was sent out to the coastal cities. Even though the Vestrisians bombed their settlements the Vullanese barely yielded ground. He discovered more buccaneers work for neither side. A total of 413 buccaneers were captured along with Trove Trackers, 347 of their prizes, a spontaneous Artist Rogue, Scientist, incendiary, saboteur. When he returned to headquarters Mogrot found extra forces arrived. Some unit of 285 Bishop Soldiers from Lasnile, 277 militia, 397 sentinels, 372 automatons, 543 Goblin Trailblazers, 413 Rangers, and 381 Gontrellan Berserkers arrived to fight. Mogrot was certain there were more on the other islands. Yet they could not bring them all to Izvar at one time. 

Promises of reinforcements came short during the second month as the Vestrisians hammered away. Since winter was ending and turning to spring. Slopes of Mount Cat Paw changed hands multiple times creating a stalemate. It became a headache for both sides. One week of a truce was settled with the slopes being neutral ground. When that week went by both sides went at it again. Ionephus lay on the couch watching the battles unfold and end with his care giver by his side. One of 312 clerics of healing sent over she looked like Mogrot's next fun time. Known as "Expedition Raptor" her real name was left unknown. Completely covered in a light blue robe with a hood, this care giver showed signs she was experimented on with forbidden alchemy before being released from the mad experiment. She healed his wounds for some hours ago. She was massaging him now. Mogrot approached their section of the chambers. It was curtained off into different sections with various colored curtains and shades. On the wall of their section was a male mage held to the wall by grasp of phantoms. Just 291 of those spell times were successfully sprung on V.U.V.R. forces. Next to this mage was a marble pedestal holding a transparent blue cube. 

It floated inches above the top of the pedestal. The splendor caught his gaze and full attention. He moved to grab it when saw movement from the corner of his eye. Tearing his gaze away Mogrot spied the care giver wielding a dagger above the sleeping Ionephus. She was poised to bring some fierce retribution on his Master over something. Using arcane blast Mogrot pushed her away from Ionephus. She fell to the floor dropping the dagger. Mogrot pounced on her. He did what he normally did to those who attacked his master. Not wanting blood on his hands he slapped her several times then proceeded to ravage her as punishment. When he was finished the caregiver was tossed out, and sold to the Nazdar immediately the following day. 

For the rest f 1841 Mogrot watched with his Master as this war spread across the map. Gontrella, Nymres, Argolith, Ossus, Galaia, Vidothra, Vodwania, Muskalla, Vimasdra, Ghudran and five allied city-states joined this fight. Gontrella full on joined this fight. Nyrmres began sending forces over the sea. Argolith pledged to fight alongside Vullan. Muskalla began raiding settlements along the Blackmell Mountains. Ossus started to ship weapons and troops over. However, the Vestrisians anticipated this move. In retaliation one million in reserves pressed the advance on Vimasdra, Muskalla, and Gontrella. All they could really do was hold onto whatever was left of Izvar Islands. About 166 successful Weapons Surges were used on the V.U.V.R. at a weekly basis. From the deserts 402 thresher red lizards were let loose on the advancing V.U.V.R. After that failed Izvar's desperate commanders sent 358 Night Market Guard constructs which would never be seen again. In terms of reinforcements from their allies Vullan received the slaves, inmates, crooks, captured thieves, rebels, pirates, the outcasts, cultists, the punished and any early volunteers. Combining the outlaws and inmates they received 1,558. As for rebels, cultists, outcasts, and the punished Vullan Izvar gained 1,743 extra combatants. The number of slaves being sent over included 251 Oni-Ogre slaves sent by Gantronese and 229 relic rogues sent to fight over the crime of stealing. Crooks included 586 corrupt Sergeant-At-Arms, and gambling scouts caught conning people. Volunteers from their allies were 287 soldiers, 318 Cathar Soldiers, 278 Cavalry, 687 hired samurai. These reinforcements arrived with 1,800 Grevaskii. Most of the forces their allies actually sent were either in Lasnille, Yasolle, or at the bottom of the sea due to bombers. 

Each week resulted in a different turn out for either side. The Vullanese lost 967 soldiers, mages and a village to some unleashed werewolves. Another week the Vestrisians suffered a setback of several hundred dead, 327 were caught in capture spheres, 243 put to sleep, while several hundred became captured prisoners. To bombing runs they lost 286 alchemists along with thousands of personnel. Near one of Izvar's mountains they lost 421 scouts, patrols, and servants to spiders. A week after that they managed to clear several areas of the creepy creatures. In the process their reinforcements pressed the advance after 393 were assassinated at night. Most of the assassins did not return the day before. A month went by before anyone else made a move. Through attacks b nature and monsters, they lost 778 defenders. Such losses were replaced by the reserves who went up against 26,500 V.U.V.R. soldiers who were backed by another 31,000 at the front. Information came from prisoners or spies through Duress spells. Just nine of them fessed up immediately after throttling was imposed on them. Mogrot tasked with teleporting any prisoners back into Vestrisian hands in exchange for theirs. From the Vestrisians 664 prisoners and 386 who became lost were returned to the Vullanese. Out of goodwill 256 warhorses were given back along with 302 Indigenous smith artificers found in the settlements they seized. 

Another month into 1841 saw parts of Izvar's Mountain slopes fell into enemy hands. It was the last month they would receive reinforcements for some time. Extra units came in from Vidothra and Gontrella. One unit of 400 Palace Soldiers, 195 smelt wardens, 327 Veteran Dungeoneers, 393 Gremlins sent for sabotage. Vullan clun to the mountains with what they had left in terms of defenders. Most of their air force went up against Al-Dadoria. It appeared lost until Vestrisia had to send forces to other fronts. Mogrot did not feel like this would lead to victory. He found his master in a different chamber with radios, cameras, radars, and what they had in terms of surveillance. Most of their defenders found themselves locked in a desperate bid to hold back the Vestrisians. He watched them all through orbs, crystal balls, and mirrors as they cast a multitude of spells on the advancing Vestrisians. After their main armies failed to hold the lines. Two years the Vestrisians ground down and chipped away at their defenses. Many of their mages and arcane users died in the fighting. About every month or week they watched their mages cast the same spells on the Vesrisians plus more. Mogrot kept track of the numbers as best he could. Ten to fifteen thousand or more mages cast a wide range of spells. Sleep spells took out 565 Vestrisians each week. Somehow they managed to accumulate knowledge from 204 Vestrisians. 

Each one either suffered from the effects or passed out. From a few of them they gathered knowledge about some rebellions or uprisings, which meant nothing to the Maesters. Other spells used against the V.U.V.R. included frightful delusion that took out 311, and cost ten mage lives in the process. Capture Sphere spells kept them busy while trying to free 566 or more of their comrades while the Vullanese either cast other spells or fled. Spells such as Phantom grasp, containment, paralyzing grasp, pin to earth, mephitic vapors, nullify, crippling blight, cast into darkness, demon grasp, inferno fist, spell blast, doom seals, cobble brutes, were used against the Vestrisians. More brutal spells such as disfigure, searing spear, annihilating fire, necrobite in close quarters, spectral prison came into play on the battlefield. Together these spells took out 13,000-14,000 Vestrisians along with how many they lost to their defending Izvari soldiers. It grew difficult for these mages to cast these spells and hit the target then escape. 

Spells such as the warded battlements, wall of runes, structural distortion along with the non-lethal ones slowed down the Vestrisian advances. In 1842 they lost the two mountains and pulled back to the last one on the island. Their efforts were in vain, but they did slow them down. Not caring about the feelings of the Artificers they robbed them of 303 bird assistants. Although a cruel act their methods forced information from the talking birds about 150,000 V.U.V.R. heading this way. After healing each bird assistant they released them and let the artificers decide to leave or stay. Izvari defenders did thank their allies with prizes for joining. Extra forces came into this fight over Izvar. From the last mountain they sent in those reinforcements. Entire companies formed a larger force than a battalion. Units of 335 bomber corps, 378 spike wheel acrobats, 301 Sergeants, 238 rallied troops, mages, 408 Hunters, 460 Horizon Warriors, 1,044 Cabal Paladins and a brigade of gunmen raced down the last slopes. That charge gave them time of delaying the Vestrisians a little more. Months passed before the V.U.V.R. advanced again on the last mountain. Plenty of casualties had to be cleaned up. About 337 disfigured, 138 bitten by necrobite, 228 cast into darkness aura had to be evacuated, 318 caught in spheres, and 307 suffered from paralyzing grasp among the Vestrisian casualties. 

With the time they had due to the delay, they were allowed to evacuate 346 Wizard research assistants 308 artificers, 403 mage spell weavers. At the same time 286 Companion sword mages arrived to fight. To Mogrot this was a little late as the islands of Izvar were crawling with Vesrisians, and flying their blue banners. Izvar held on for a few more months. Necromancers sent 500 Zombie soldiers, and 400 raging biomancy boars to hold off a little longer. From Izvar they evacuated 709 workshop assistants during rainy days or in bad weather knowing the Vestrisian aircraft could not fly in that weather. Up to the last days of winter before year 1843 began they made a last attempt to hold off before the Nazdar forces arrived. What they sent was a company of slave soldiers and a few artificer mages. At the very last few cities they managed to pull off more capture spheres, paralyzing grasps, and other spells on the Vestrisians. Mage weavers managed to put at least 687 to sleep in their camps and shock another 846 with power surge traps. It wa all they could do before the end of 1842. 

A nightmare ensued as fear gripped them on the normal morning of the thirteenth day of spring. Mogrot awoke to shouting, gunfire, screams, and explosions. Jolted awake he tried to hide and escape at the same time. When that failed he raced to his master who cast a darkness spell on a squad of Vestrisians. He could not believe it, the Vestrisians breached their defenses and were pouring into the last fortified cities. Hope for holding them off was now lost. Their uniforms appeared dirty with the blue arm band over their left arm, and helmets looked too modern with a custom shape. His own master held them off in the hall for a few minutes. One figure appeared in the Vestrisian khaki green uniform armed with a mace. A bombardment blast shook the building, throwing many off balance. Pieces came down in the hall. Rooms caved in from collapsed ceilings. Ionephus collapsed failing to cast disfigure on this target who stood firm. Mogrot watched the figure bludgeon Ionephus to death. Smashing his skull in, spilling blood and brains all over the stone floor. Some of the gold orange carpets were now stained in blood and covered in debris. Whoever they were this Vestrisian wore a Zhenrai brooch on the left side of the should blade of the uniform. Mogrot felt himself soil his pants. A Zhenrai Order was called in to fight in this war. The ugly servant, now masterless stood paralyzed with fear. The 12 Saint Fofures and the Vestrisian religion would replace the Vullanese one. It was all he could think of as the last buildings fell to the Vestrisians. In moments he was faced with a summoned spirit wielding an ancestral blade. His last moments witnessed a Lamia seducing and killing an infantryman before being shot up. 

Izvar Sigil and Coat of Arms

 

Izvar is an island divided between the Vullanese faction, and the Boathrian faction. Although both are considered part of the Boathrin Kingdom, they are split over religion and politics. 

Occupation 1841

This Occupation wasn't exactly what he had in mind. Although they swept through Vullanese forces, overrunning Vullanese defenses victory still felt too far away. As a Field Marshal he was given a position of authority. A governor's office over the seized territory of Adrath-Versack. Once a part of Vullan's half of the Boathrin Kingdom Adrath-Versack fell within a few months of the fighting. Clearly 85,000 Vullanese did not stand a chance against 330,000 angry Boathrians, and Vestrisians. More than half the 80,000 perished leaving 3,000 to surrender whereas 10,236 plus volunteers defended the other isles. Two to three and a half months they spent tackling the other 507 islands, and islets of Adrath-Versack. 

Field Marshal Radhovv Nymnir sat a at a former Magistrate's desk with a Marshal of Ezonel, an Inquisitor turncoat, a Detective, city inspector coroner, local sheriff, and Police Officer/soldier from Boathria standing before him. Behind the Field Marshal was some taxidermy Dragon Bat mounted on a wall. Each one came with a report about something to the governing Field Marshal inside his temporary office. Albog city became the new capital of Adrath-Versack after the previous was destroyed by bombing and artillery. So it was here the reports concerning the occupied land came. The Marshal from Ezonel known as Marshal Bacardmi started with his own report. His mustache made him more human than elf, yet the pointed ears could still be seen thanks to the short haircut style of his reddish hair. 

"Field Marshal Nymnir I discovered a lone adventurer with no ties to neither our faction nor the Vullanese in our custody. They claimed there are 400 other adventurers fighting alongside the Vullanese. A Baron living in Vestrisia is a connection, or acquaintance of theirs. The captured adventurer I mean." Bacardmi explained his report to Nymir. Nymir only cared about keeping this whole region stable. 

"What of it? They chose to fight on Vullan's side. Do they wish to avoid further imprisonment due to a connection that doesn't hold a seat in either Senate or among the Cenators of the VUVR?" Nymir probed a little on this matter. his hands clasped together on the desk. This half elf upstart arrived for this a little too soon for Nymnir's liking. In the sincerest, and uninterested voice he said "next". Dressed in a finer uniform that the average police, Marshal Bacardmi turned around, pushing his way out of the office. 

The Inquisitor turncoat known as Viktor Belmont stepped forward in a well pressed gimmer trousers of green, a finance hurting suit jacket with ten silver buttons, a red dress shirt with an ascot tucked under the shirt. Part of the prettier side of the ascot draped over the first two buttons. Mostly human with a hint of something else, Inquisitor Belmont held a bald head, rectangular shape, flat nose, a scar over his upper lip. A removed tattoo could be seen on the left side of his head along with a missing ear. 

"Afternoon, Inquisitor Belmont. What brings you to occupied Adrath-Versack?" Field Marshal Nymir inquired. 

"Stowaway monsters sighted on a ship at port. No more than eleven were spotted in search of subtle fun. A few Vullanese were found nude near the beach head. One of the victims described the monsters vaguely. Another along with a witness drew them to exact detail." Belmont reported to the acting occupational governor. He handed Nymir the drawings and sketches. Flipping through these drawings he saw one held a resemblance to a cephalopod like creature. Another monster looked very much like an ogre. He set them aside assuring these monsters will be found among the populace. 

Up next was the detective. Detective Raven Blackburn, a 5'7 female Zedirian with a bit of dwarf-goblin-elf mixed in, stepped up to his temporary desk. Her attire included an overcoat, bowler hat, and scarf wrapped around her neck and chin. Her big eyes, small nose gave away the Zunia-Puck race as did the exposed hooves. Nymnir knew she was here for serious business as she had the legit badge, and pins to prove her profession. He allowed her to speak. After all Field Marshal Nymir requested serious matters to report. As she approached her scent wafted into his nostrils. Not a drop of accursed alcohol, about time. He thought to himself. She gave hers rather quickly, which was about an incident of an assault on a maid. This crime incited outrage among a town in Adrath even though the Vullanese were known to do this to servants, or non-believer servants of households. Nymir hoped Vestrisia could wipe out any traces of the old Vullanese culture that involved required servitude. He wasn't surprised at all whoever it was will be dealt with. Some Vestrisian soldiers closest to the crime scene were accused until just yesterday. Nymnir gave her a sincere look promising her the culprits would be brought to her after the trial or court martial. 

After Detective Blackburn left Inspector Gormingave reintroduced himself in a nervous manner. Almost stuttering Gormingave tried to return himself to being calm. Dressed in a long coat over a bronze striped vest, black trousers with short silver stripes lining them. Custom made shoes crafted from long boots cut to the ankles. A buckle piece attached to the boots with a strap. Gormingave's face appeared unable to grow any facial hair except on his head, eyebrows, and chin. Red hair, square faced, straight raised nose. His eyebrows looked too bushy for the square face with pointed chin. An Inspector's insignia badge pinned to the left side of the coat. It could make him stand out in the distance. Gormingave fidgeted with the buttons a little. His shirt matched the vest he wore. It was where his eyes kept going rather than meeting Nymnir's gaze on him. 

"Inspector Gormingave are you going to give your report now or do we need you to return later?" Nymnir barked at him. He was getting tired of this. None of the others laughed at this like he expected. Most were too scared, because they were Vullanese and some other city-states he could not recall were being defeated. Vestrisia could take out the city-state or deal with any uprising. 

"No, no the V.U.V.R. forces, your new country, seemed to have captured...um...an Overseer of Servants known as Acary, and his Chief Eunuch. Both were apprehended during the invasion and are not a member of the Vullanese faction of this conflict." Gormingave explained to Nymnir who was not please that he did not mention the name of the city-state. 

"Which One?" he grilled the inspector a little. 

"What?" the Inspector returned back in a more confused tone. 

"Which city-state, inspector?" Nymnir inquired. His fingers started to bury into the desk. 

"The, the neutral state of Bostesh." he answered giving a nervous smile. 

"Bostesh? Very well, I will telephone for their release. I am only doing this quickly because there are other matters. to deal with." Nymnir affirmed to the Inspector who was sweating through the vest. 

Right after the Inspector left the office local sheriff Orggat Thickneck, a humanoid with Orcish, Goblin, and Ogre mixed in. Beige skin dotted with hair made the meaty sheriff look humanoid except for the flat pig nose, and tusks. In his customized, resown tunic uniform and trousers Sheriff Orggat looked a little scared to approach any closer to the occupying Vestrisian Field Marshal. Nymnir gave him a slight glare which he felt emerge on his own face. 

"What is it now?" Slave Master. He thought that last part to himself when asking the question. The sheriff waddled his buttocks over to him since they took over. 

"Just the usual incident between the populace. In town a Lady Luck beat up a degenerate fat boy for touching her leg." Orggat reported to the Field Marshal. This brough him in a good mood somehow. 

Lady Lucks in Boathrin Isles held a high status in society of the Islands of Valde. Considered companions to high class people, Noble class or aristocrats seeking a companion for a time, Lady Lucks can become courtesans, escorts, masseuse. Others choose to be advertisers for Perfumers, Magicians, Sales, and celebrities. It made Nymnir chuckle a little then returned to his serious face. Orggat handed him a document of the report. He took and studied it. Nymnir looked back at Orggat. 

"Lady Luck Pridebend the seductive rose thorn of Mishtoll. She will be held accountable, arrested for beating the child. For thirty-three days she will be imprisoned in a clean cell, fed food, and clothed. After that she is banished for five hundred forty-one days. Whenever she returns it will be five hundred four days of working a different profession." Field Marshal Nymnir declared feeling the authority of a Senator and Judge. He chose not to reveal where she was going, which was Baske, Geverine. 

"Would she have to um follow Vestrisian laws and such customs?" Orggat asked nervously. Eyeing him up and down Nymnir could tell he wanted to have her for himself. 

It bothers him good. Nymnir thought to himself. V.U.V.R. occupation might bring some things to Adrath-Versack and the other occupied places. More respect and equality among races would be installed. Literacy became required among V.U.V.R. citizens, which will come here. A trade or profession for any surviving homeless or beggars that grovel for food and coin. In Vestrisia anyone must have a trade or profession to show their worth in society. Some member states require a few years or just one. Then they could take adventures, move, join the military ranks, join a guild, attend university or start a career. Most suck to their trade/profession, move, attend school. Now that changed, because of this war. The V.U.V.R. military ranks swelled as it moved in against Vullan. Some customs or popular trends came with them. 

More jobs, opportunities to get jobs, but also something else. Every child plants a tree in their yard or nearest park, or the outskirts. Adults make love to at least ten partners or more in their lives. Not at the same time though. Before marriage, because those issues can end with a dagger, or axe thrown into the door. In terms of religion the wise zhenrai could bring their gods or others might bring the devotion to the twelve wise crafters. Once a year a follower pays homage to these crafters with long white, black, red, brown, or blonde beards. 

Nymnir sent the sheriff away with these court decrees on the Lady Luck. The degenerate was to be sent to a guild or readjustment asylum for manners. Next up as recently promoted Captain Abblevower. If recalled correctly 8840 medals rewarded that promoted the soldiers who fought in 1840. Everyone else received some recognition, others given an extra coin due to their injuries. Sent over by General Halamar Faran, an elf of 1,022 years old, this Captain had some troubling report. Captain Abblevower, a human from northern Naatidra stood at attention giving him a salute. Nymnir saluted in return. 

"At ease Captain Abblevower. What is your report from Onnetz city?" he asked him. 

"Field Marshal, residents of Onnetz became unrestful and violent over a disagreement. One thousand prefer to support us. Whereas one hundred seventy-five or so clung to supporting Vullan. Both sides divided into separate forces and broke into a fight. With eachother." Abblevower answered, giving his report. The dark haired, beige skinned, clean shaven youth with green eyes, oblong face, and hawk nose appeared rocked by the incident. 

"How many are dead? How many are wounded?" Nymnir inquired from the young Captain. 

"Hundreds are wounded due to arcane spells. Forty-seven dead among our supporters. Eighty-seven wounded, sixty-five Vullanese are wounded, twenty-six Vullanese are dead, and the rest apprehended." The young Captain added to this report. 

"Thank you Captain Abblevower. Ensure General Faran keeps the peace there alongside his own staff. You are dismissed." Captain Abblevower left the Field Marshal's Office. 

Nymnir spent a few weeks looking over these reports along with others handed to him days before. All over Adrath-Versack, 128-134 Vullanese were arrested over various crimes. Approximately 5,775 believed it was time to leave. That emptied more houses and complexes. It just gave the occupiers extra places to house occupation forces, their wounded and other staff. Law enforcement was reduced due to the fighting over Adrath-Versack. Twelve Coroners, 31 police officers, 142 former city guard, 146 city watch, 3 constables per settlement, 150 town guard, 150 town watch 96 night watchmen were sent over to help the exhausted soldiers. One town named Ycled could use some extra personnel. These extra law enforcers added more to those who collaborated with the occupiers. What they did not want were community watch, or vigilantes ruining everything. Killing criminals or maiming them was the last thing he wanted. Their own forces acted as an occupational force that meant to keep the peace. One hundred-thirty-six female elves found themselves in a scary and sticky situation. Some wanted to move, others wanted to stay and help calm the remaining populace. Nymnir assured their chosen representative they would be safe. Yet he could not say the same thing about the lone adventurer. Bacardmi returned to retrieve the lone adventurer who apparently had some bad history with a town in Lasnile. A Bounty Hunter waited outside the office of the Field Marshal. Bacardmi had a surprising revelation about the adventurer. In turned out he had abilities similar to a Mage and Zhenrai. 

"By Ipsul we should add him to our ranks." Bacardmi insisted with wide eyes. Nymnir eyed him suspiciously. 

"Are you a Zhenrai by any chance Marshal Bacarmi?" Nymnir asked him who did not seem to hear the question. 

"He is Estati." Bacardmi replied. 

"I asked you, are you a Zhenrai?" He repeated. 

"Oh, no, no, Field Marshal I am a Marshal sent here to retrieve him for the Zhenrai Order. As of now at least." Bacardmi answered. 

"Then let's dispose of the Bounty Hunter, this evening Marshal." Nymnir put in eager to shoot into the door a few times in case the half-Orc Bounty Hunter was eavesdropping. 

Mogrot the Non-Commander

Vullanese Adrath, Bosantra, Vascel, Eusvame most of Mothgar, parts of Izvar lay in Vestrisian hands. Only six to seven months in the war and most of Vullan's border islands they shared with Boathria fell. By the eighth month of this conflict just Izvar stood as the last island that shared a physical border with Boathria. It left Naice, Veoth, Asnar, Yasolle, and Lasnile open for invasion. Izvar's defenses struggled to keep up with Vestrisian advances. Right after they began losing chunks of land, plenty of forces, more recruits and extra defenders rallied to Izvar. Just before the third month Maesters, and Praetors sent reinforcements to aid the defenses of Izvar island. Only Izvar, Mothgar, and Eusvame received considerable reinforcements. Mogrot witnessed seven groups arrive to aid Vullan's Izvari defenders. One battalion of 735 Thags, or hired Thugs arrived wearing the Grevaskii uniforms. Wolf Nomads from the moon Mikka sent 450 members to Vullan's aid with help from the Nazdar. Mogrot was certain that would not go well with the Vestrisians and their allies, Nazdar intervention. The Gantronese sent 207 humanoid creatures called Marilith to fight for Vullan. A bid to get rid of captured outlaws, rebels, and prisoners of war no doubt. An Orc warband of 625 members arrived at the same time as 685 non-humans. Groups such as the Flamed Fist, the Dark Sun, and adventuring Guilds sent their fighters to help. A total of 744 members of this Flamed Fist arrived around the same time as this Dark Sun that sent 260 members. To beef up the military Vullan called for the 6005 arcane users to engage Vestrisian forces. 

Mogrot was not military person, but he could tell 360,000 Izvari defenders could not hold back the V.U.V.R. for more than a year. An extra 250,000 forces seemed to make that possible as it was entering the eighth month. Without more reinforcements Izvar's defenses would still collapse. So far these months of fighting still kept the Vestrisians from claiming all of Izvar. New vehicles, extra tanks, and weapons were shipped over to help. Laying sea mines, Izvar's cliffs, hidden reefs somewhat stalled V.U.V.R. forces from encircling Izvar right away. There was also the narrow gorge between Mothgar and Izvar that was impossible for vessels to cross due to the rockiness, and sand beds. He knew Mothgar's forces consisted of 90,000 at first glance. More forces did arrive to help along with the 189,000 veterans that launched a counterattack. Ruffians, Thugs, Freebooters, Gloom Stalkers, Death Cult Rogues Skyblades of Service made up a portion of their forces on Mothgar. Vestrisians may have estimated 90,000 at first until they encountered swarms of harpies, hordes of monsters, Minotaurs, Ogres, Kuruks, metal eating beasts. Other Mothgar forces included Sergeant-At-Arms, Perimeter Sergeants, Dauntless Cathars, Guardian Shield Bearers, Squires, Cabal Paladins, Sunscourge Champions made up the elite forces. As for the religious fighters, Monks, Knights of Faith, Berserker Dusk Wielders, Legion Conquistadors, Disciples of Mervis, Devout Soldiers of Vullan. Those who acted as guards got drafted such as Armory Guard, Mausoleum guards Palace Sentinels, Smelt Ward Gatekeepers. Average personnel included Strikers, militia, Battle Goblins, Battalion Foot Soldiers Bomber Corps, Hardy Veterans, Infantry Veterans, Dungeoneers, Goblin Pikers, and Freerunners. Other units of Mothgar defenders included Borderland Rangers, Spike wheel acrobats, Courtstreet Denizens, Raging Goblins, Arsonists, Ogre Jail Breakers, Redcap Goblins, Enforcers, Battle Jesters, Night market constructs. Aside from the Orcs, Ogres, Goblins, and Minotaur's, Mothgar was said to have werewolves in the mix along with Returned Phalanx zombies, and Biomancy Experiments. In terms of arcane users Mothgar fielded 900 Mage Skirmishers, Arcane Revolutionists that either died, went missing, or became prisoners. Mogrot prowled around considering what else Izvar fielded. 

Always on the nerves of his Master's assistants he looked down at 906 arcane users pressed into service along with the six thousand already setting up traps for the Vestrisian forces. He often mocked them at times over the spells they fail at casting. Ionephus had other assistants who did not live with him. However, they did act as apprentices in a specific way. Each one learned some new spells from Ionephus once a year. Just for fun Mogrot would pickpocket them and proceeded to use the non lethal spells on them. Never bothering to know their names he watched as they taught other arcane users specific spells they were to use while the main forces fought the Vestrisians. Izvar's defenders did consist of militia, Orcs, various Goblins, Harpies, Minotaur spawns, and the usual constructs. Forming up the main military forces were the Sergeant-At-Arms, Strikers, Battalion Foot soldiers, Perimeter Sergeants, Dusk Wielders, Monks, Enforcers, Arsonists, various guards, Veterans, Devout troops, Dauntless Cathars, Disciples, Squires, Conquistadors, Arsonists, Cabal Paladins, Bishop soldiers, Shield Bearers, Bomber Corps. Plenty of the arcane users already at the front included Mage Skirmishers, Soulmenders, Revolutionists, Gloom Stalkers that teleport constantly, Knights of Faith, Mage Ring Bullies of the Arcane Guilds, Combat Professor Clerics, Spike Wheel Acrobatics, and thousands of Whirlwind Adept Djinn Monks from Ottante, and Al-Dadoria. Their necromancers created 7,000 Returned Phalanx Zombies plus who knows how many more undead. About 400 Biomancy Experiments were just scrambled to the frontlines along with 1,732 Automaton constructs. 

He overheard the Nazdar and Gantronese were giving them tanks, especially mortar tanks to hold back the Vestrisian advances as the war dragged into its eighth month. One Gantronese who chose to be anonymous, sent 371 Blue, Black, Green, Red Ethereal beasts called Marauders to help with pushing back the Vestrisians. These he found very interesting as they proved difficult to kill.  Ionephus observed these creatures through some arcane skittering surveyor an artificer crafted for spying. Both watched the Vestrisian Orc, Celic Clansmen, Elves, Half Elves, Elemani, Estati struggle to cut these monsters down with bayonets, metal axes, and sabers. A few armed themselves with spears for such a job in the battlefield. As he stood with his arched back causing him to lean forward Mogrot witnessed some anger burst out of Ionephus. It took a lot to anger him. The floating mirrors, glass orbs, levitating crystal balls connected to the skittering surveyors fell one by one or went blank. Using technology and arcane magic combined a wizard, artificer, or inventor came up with these skittering surveyors. Ionephus and a few others tried using these skittering surveyors to watch Vestrisian movements. It appeared the Vestrisians caught on to them. Whoever was the marksmen among their ranks began taking them out today. In the same room as them, inside the Mage Seminary study chamber in Izvar's Izbelle City, Sadira, a Lady of Toxins Sarah, an adventurer leader, Gyle Mork, and Dungeoneer Gretta joined them earlier this afternoon. 

"Damn those Vestrisians! Every time we make progress they always find a way to foil it!" Ionephus cursed out loud punching a fist into an already broken mirror. 

"Perhaps unleash more zombies or beasts into the battlefield?" Sadira, the Dark Sun Agent who arrived with the 260ish members, suggested to Ionephus. 

"That could work, but would only waste ammunition for a short while. Also their tanks are equipped with harpoon shells meant for taking down larger beasts." Lady of Toxins, Violet Periculum, pointed out to the pair of them. 

"Izvar's ruling families, nobles, aristocrats, higher wizards, managed to capture monitars, I mean Manticores. These creatures are currently kept in cages. We could set them loose on the Vestrisians along with any other monsters while the arcane users set up their traps." Ionephus mentioned, scaring them a little. 

Mogrot discovered Manticores in cages on Izvar while prowling the cities for fun. Behind the lot of them sat a Flamed Fist Champion who overheard them. He shot up and proceeded to charge ahead in search of these monsters. So far they discovered 207 caged Manticores. Thanks to some Mages and Necromancers, they did not have to look far for extra bodies to release the Manticores. Animated dummies, mannequins, and revived corpses to help prepare these beasts. It took a little convincing to gain access to these cages monsters and some time to get these creatures in a secured vault or bunker. All the animated, and reanimated aid spared them the loss of life that often came with tackling these monsters. While they prepared thee monsters more aid came to Izvar. Even as the Vestrisians destroyed most of their gifted tanks, the Vullanese still attempted to hold on. A Priestess/Actress from a city-state somehow misled 797 followers to jump in support of Vullan. A brigade's worth of 3055 Knights and Squires from 28 states come to their aid at the same time another battalion arrived. Some 660 soldiers and Grevaskii arrive with 19 tanks, 25 combat vehicles and 8 troop transports. Gontrellans formed a militia of 347 warriors, and humanoids to fight in Vullan. Some talk about the other countries getting involved by 1841 if this conflict dragged on past 13 months to a year. Mogrot overheard at a tavern while pickpocketing for fun that many believed Vestrisia just wanted to claim the shared islands for Queen Lizan. 

Constructs and undead were sent to the front as a means to stall the Vestrisian advances. All the newcomers were put in the reserves in case. Doing a head count of the VUVR forces would take too much time even for a good spy. As for Vullan's Izvari forces more arrived to fight for the last island it shared with Boathria. After repelling an assault by Al-Dadorians the Maesters sent 10,235 well rewarded Vullanese from Lasnile. About 500 spoony scumbags eager to claim a female by earning society's approval rushed over to fight. One company's worth of 376 dullards scared the Vestrisians wanted to take over the world scrambled over to Izvar. Seventeen siege weapons modified for modern warfare were brought over. That was not all the forces that came for Izvar's aid. One group of 42 Lackeys, 392 monsters and spawn arrive to attack, 812 Gnolls arrived with 2,300 Troglodytes, 1,904 Drow Thralls, 5,938 Zealots arrived to push back the Vestrisians. They were not alone with the same intentions. From Vullan's main islands 3,323 Captains arrived with 78,544 at their command along with 118 battle constructs. A company of Kromwell Single Man tanks are shipped over along with 1,000 created Golems from Ganne, 1,500 Gremlins are forced to come sabotage Vestisian vehicles. Mogrot only caught a glimpse of these forces as his Master had him continue with spying, and keeping track of supposed traitors. While 110, 0000 extra forces are pressed against the Vestrisian advances Mogrot teleported from city to city, which still remained in Vullanese hands. First he checked the port cities and fishing villages where he ratted out 114 pirates providing aid to the Vestrisians through bottled messages, or anonymous letters. After rounding them up with the forces they had available Ionephus discovered a unit of 52 Grevaskii raced to Slyrim as turncoats last week. One letter tipped off the whereabouts of a Nazdar hovering frigate heading straight for Al-Dadoria from Vidothra. Evening the odds is all they did. During the eighth month. With an extra 110,000, armored beasts, 12 large monsters unleashed bought them time until the middle of the ninth month. 

Mages casted their spells as traps that would slow down Vestrisian advances. Some trapped, ensnared soldiers, immobilized them, knocked them out. Spells such as Pin to earth, weapons surge to limbs, Tap of Sleep, Sent to sleep, paralyzing grasp, capture sphere, minimus containment, nullification, mephatic vapors, became the main weapons in taking out Vestrisians. Searing Weapon became the preferred spell the commanders wanted them to use. Although these spells worked it barely stalled the Vestrisian's advance by a month. Well into the ninth month Mogrot's Master Ionephus calculated up to thirty-three thousand Vestrisians personnel taken out with these spells. 

Extra forces did pour in while Mages kept setting up traps in the settlements closest to the front. Despite the effects of these spells slowing the Vestrisians down into the tenth month Vullan's leaders were not convinced enough. Yes, these Vestrisiasn suffered casualties, and the spells did work, however Izvar was the last shared island still standing. An Inquisitor known as Olvier Wyrd was sent by the Maesters. He inquired why the arcane users were not using more lethal spells. At a meeting between the commanders, leaders, and Inquisitor they discussed the courses of action. Wyrd demanded they push the Vestrisians back with everything they still had, which amounted to nearly 256,000. Most of the commanders wanted to hold off and stay on the defensive. Ionephus suggested they gain more outside help. Mogrot eyed the Lady of Toxins who said nothing during the meeting. One of the commanders, Bogbord, a devout follower looked over at her. 

"Lady Periculum, don't you have some influence among the mages, and multiple contacts?" He asked her with a hint of suspicions. 

"Yes, but they prefer not to harm the Vestrisians. You see their aim is to bring in more followers. Vullan's Teachings will be spread to those we can capture and-" she was cut off by the Inquistor who waved his hand. 

"No that will not suffice, the Vestrisians must be pushed back! It is crucial to push them back with ruthless efforts! Since you have influenced the mages not to kill their enemies, then as an Agent of the Maesters I lay blame on you." Wyrd barked at her with a finger pointing at her. 

"Fine then! I shall take my leave! The lot of you will be executed by Vestrisian Police! I shall take my 809 followers and hold our own on the southern island!" She stormed out of the room. It left the room quiet for a moment or two until they started inquiring about more outside help. Mogrot could not help but follow her out of the room. Through the halls, and multiple corridors he stalked her until he found her leaving through a summoned portal. Mogrot did not want to pursue any further unless he received permission from his master. 

Aviator Belle

 Flying is what she loved most in life. None of her friends or family could deny it was a passion of hers. Ever since she was twelve at her very first airshow. Aircraft were a recent invention by at least two decades before being used in warfare. Thanks to the Gnomes, Dwarves, and other inventors along with the new alien invaders. It was difficult to understand why the alien races did not use their own aircraft fully in their invasion. Some presumed it had more to do with success using ground troops and the lessened need for any aerial attacks. When she signed in to join their newly formed V.U.V.R.'s air force, she learned these aliens that invaded used up their most powerful aircraft on each other. After twelve years of flying aircraft, gliders, kite sails, and some airships Belle Modesitt felt ready to take on some new aircraft they produced. The Arrowhawk 500 was all too familiar. She served during the last months of the Zegrav War.

A few years later she was called back into service against a new enemy, Vullan. Vullan and their allies were at war with the VUVR. When she first heard about this war, she could only think these words. Who is getting their ass kicked this time? Vullan was their target, the half of the Boathrin Kingdom that rebelled along with dozens of other states. To her Boathrin wanted their land back, which had to be their reasons for joining the V.U.V.R. She heard people say the member ship into the Vestrisian Union increased due to the threat these aliens posed. In her aviator uniform, jumpsuit, air force jacket, long leather gauntlets, zipper boots with buckled cover, and life vest in a white color, she stood at the door of the hangar. Aviator goggles around her neck, oxygen mask and microphone in one hand. Belle held the skull cap and K-2 Type helmet. Moving further inside this hangar somewhere on Hantele Island, Lieutenant Belle Modesitt found 67 aircraft. Arrowhawk500s, Holy Angels-98, Screaming Hawks, Roaring Eagles filled Hangar 922. Forty-one other pilots and aviators geared up for flight were assembling at a corner of the hangar. Joining them she passed Arrowhawk 500s, Holy Angels-98, and the Roaring Eagles. With a length of 29 forearms, 11 forearms tall, a wingspan of 30 forearms, the Arrowhawk played a fighter escort, and dogfighter role. A large spear tip jutted out past the propellors. Its wings rested on the middle of the fuselage just under the cockpit. One design had the Arrowhawk wings on the top just behind the cockpit. Arrowhawk wings are thicker in the similar shape to that of the flying predator without the feathers. Its engine, the G-44 piston engine gave it a speed of 386-398 lph. At a closer glance it an extra pair of wings under the other pair could be seen on the Arrowhawk 500. A V-tail was installed on any of these prototypes, and just stayed there for its uses. Painted to resemble a carnivorous bird, this aircraft seemed menacing to challenge. 

Holy Angels-98 a dive bomber that kills tanks, vehicles, small bunkers, pillboxes, and harasses convoys like a ground attacker. This 12 forearm tall aircraft had a wingspan of 60 forearms, 38.7 forearms long, empty weight of 11, 000 ingots, MTOW of 16,798, Wgt Diff of 6,454. Its speed rises to 247 lph, altitude of 23,000 forearms, and range of 1,066 leagues. Carrying about three bombs, the Holy Angel is armed with a pair of Gloster 47 HMG turned to cannons for aircraft dogfights. Painted Orange with blue stripes, the Holy Angel-98 held the appearance of a metallic open claw of a crab with the fuselage, and wings over the cockpit. Two double piston engines carried this dive bomber in the air flanking the cockpit. The propellors appeared incased or shielded to prevent any broken pieces from hitting the pilot. Roaring Eagle-1839 came in different prototypes, fighter planes, carrier dive bombers, ground attackers, and escort. No more than 30 forearms in length, a wingspan of 58, 10 forearms tall, empty weight of 10,900 ingots, an altitude of 24,000 forearms, range of 1187 leagues. Roaring Eagles can fly at speeds of 284 lph, armed with a bomb, torpedo, three Mk II Gloster 47 HMGs. Screaming Hawks were the lighter aircraft of 28 forearms in length, 56 forearm wingspan, 10 forearms in height, weight of 9800, and speed of 300 lph due to its Emire reverse propellor piston hybrid. Armed with a pair of the Mechanic Crossbow 888 MGs the Screaming Hawks played more of an escort or patrol-skirmish role in the skies. Only morons would crash these aircraft Belle thought to herself as she approached the assembling pilots. 

"Alright aviators shut up and gather around. High Command wants us to cripple some heavy armored units on Izvar. Most of Mothgar is taken, but we are needed over the island of Izvar. Our spy aircraft and surveyors spotted these Nazdar tanks and other tanks among the Vullanese defenders on Izvar. Equip your bomber with tank killing bombs. Fighters, you keep those Vullanese buzzards off the bombers.” Air Force Master Gimbers briefed the squadrons. The Elemani (Forsythan/Human) Air Force Master stood next to a projector screen showing the Vullanese Islands, and a magnified close up of the Izvari Island. Belle studied her targets as he continued the briefing. Gimbers went through a slideshow of different vehicles they were to take down. S-12 Hellions, 623-Bunyip Island Tanks, Gumbero GG30s, C-95 Tempest Tanks of Gontrella, EW-0W Lurker from Vodwania, the Nazdar Wolf I tanks, and Beast II tanks. Taking a good look at each vehicle they were to spot and destroy became glued to her mind. When he was finished Gimbers ordered for the pilots to race towards their own aircraft. Some heckling, boasting, jesting, mock jeering, and banter filled the hangar as the forty-two pilots raced to their aircraft. Belle climbed into her own Holy Angel-98. She preferred to fly the Arrowhawk 500, but she was more accurate when it came to dropping bombs. Belle had no choice to switch places as the mission was already going underway. She would have to rely on the pilots playing escort, and defend roles in the squadrons. Out of the forty pilots she was flying with only five were on her trust list. Pilots Blue Antietamn, Moc Raven, Riku Al-Bhedde, Gregg Vompyr, and Leonar Yugson were the only ones she trusted with her life. One by one the aircraft exited the hangar onto the runway and launched into the skies. 

Part of a wave of 245 Lieutenant Modesitt's squadron commanded by Captain Kat Bringalls, headed west. In her aircrafts cockpit Belle checked the fuel gauge, compass, altitude indicator, thermometer, ammunition indicator, green balled throttles, prop pitch controls, the steering, unlocked the triggers for the guns, and kept the aircraft at a reasonable speed with the right lever pulled back 72 degrees. The clock read 10:45 A.M. Pressure indicator read a passable number. Slipping her goggles down Lieutenant Modesitt flew in a winged formation with the squadron. As they flew over the Valde Ocean, and landlocked body of water with islands taking up the center, their fleet formed a slight blockade. Explosions went off as mine clearers did their job in cleaning the path for the rest of the fleet. Whoever gave these Vullanese sea mines would have trouble mining their own waters. As it seemed they littered the Vullanese waters with them in the south. Even though they were heading to destroy enemy targets, Belle still caught sight of nature's beauty from above and below her. Much of Izvari's country looked green with hints of brown boulders, and plenty of settlements. It reminded her of rocks with lime all over them in a creek or pond. From the air the settlements, farms, towers, and cities appeared like a miniature replica of a village someone made on a long moss-covered rock in the pond. Everything remained beautiful until they reached the borders and the warzone. Colors of brown, black, charcoal, gray, rusted metals, ash, mud, and scattered pieces of metal dotting the landscape where the war was. Most of the black and brown were craters in the earth, buildings lay in ruin, some places fires still rose while others still smoldered with smoke rising. Over the radio communications she heard the commander warn of flak guns going off. Everyone rose up to a better altitude to avoid the flak guns and AA guns that began firing on them. While the bullets and flak shot into the air Belle felt a little uneasy. Still taking a glance at the ground she spotted flashes of lights appearing along the borders indicating the duels between artillery, and tanks firing their rounds. Explosions were aplenty from all sorts of rounds. She could barely make out the machineguns firing from either side. 

Coming over the border they still felt the impact of the flak guns. One or two of their squadron bailed out from hits to the belly or scratched wings. Yet they were not alone. Other squadrons from the north, and south joined them in their attack on Izvari ground forces. In separate waves they launched their air attack on the Nazdar tanks, and others the Vullanese possessed on Izvar. Some bombs missed, others hit different targets, and plenty of bombs crippled or demolished the intended targets on the ground. Each vehicle or structure hit blew up or were left in a fiery fate. Machine guns soon turned on them from the ground as they dove for their targets. Belle, having released her load on a Beast Tank II opened fire on a trench with Vullanese troopers hoping that took out any combatants. Deep inside she admitted to herself she may have killed some enemies, and wounded others. What was she supposed to do, hold back? Vullanese priests calling themselves mages made off with some arcane witches she knew back home. When she did not hear from either of those good witches Belle's vengeance was set against Vullan. However today they only go after main military not the arcane users among civilian populations. If she were involved in that raid on temples in 1839 A.N. someone would have to lock her up. Who knows what the Vullanese priests and arcane users do with any of the non-converts to their religion. Rumors saying, they experiment on these witches using Tarma or Dragon's Tar, a substance that is easily flammable and difficult to put out. Such a rumor must have caused millions to pour into the recruiting stations. 

Attempting to steer her Holy Angel to the right the wing and tail were hit from aircraft gunfire. It came from the northwestern flanks. She felt foolish for exposing her belly like that. Her own aircraft started to go down even with the engine still going. Bell stabilized the falling aircraft as much as possible while pulling upward. With her left arm keeping her in the air she grabbed the escape parachute lever with her right hand. Snapping sounds of the seat being released filled the cockpit. Her arm pulled another lever that opened up the canopy allowing her parachute to open up and pull her out of the falling Holy Angel. All around her the wind whirled around her from the impact of the parachute leaving the aircraft. When her world stopped spinning around to slowly come down by parachute, she received a good view of the Vullanese aircraft that came after their waves of bombers. There had to be at least 1,043 aircraft that were now being flanked by another wave of Vestrisian Arrowhawks, Boathrin Zu34s, and Screaming Hawks. Belle Modesitt's chute slowly descended to the ground with the wind carrying her towards northwards to the frontlines. From the seat she spotted scattered fighting along the new borders of the conflict. She held on tight as the parachuted seat made its landing. Not as rough as she thought it would be it still brought her to a dangerous situation. Quickly unbuckling herself Belle turned to the east and started sprinting. Being behind enemy lines was not where she wanted to be at this moment. Leaving the parachute seat she left behind the oxygen mask, mess kit, flying gauntlets, microphone, skull cap, and flying helmet. On her Belle carried the heliograph mirror, floating flashlight, hatchet, canteen, bayonet, wire cutters, mug, trench tool, flare gun, puttees, life vest, morse code flashlight, and Onway Revolver along with a pistol in the puttees.  

Just getting back to Vestrisian territory was the only thing she cared about right now. Her mission was done yet a new one appeared. Survive, avoid capture, and return to base. Knowing she had enemies to engage in her path Lieutenant Modesitt pulled out the Onway Revolver and A-76 pistol. In her path lay the barbed wires, ruined structures, some craters, a few down aircraft, destroyed vehicles, corpses, skeletons, shredded pieces of wood, splinters of wood, puddles of blood mixed with water and mud. A few machine nests rested on a makeshift mound. Dead horses could be found along with various vehicles and weapons littering the battlefield. She did not have time to even glance at the horrid scenery. While she made a zigzag pattern to avoid gunfire from either side some enemies did notice her movements. Forced to take these enemies down Belle noticed the Vullanese received reinforcements. A trio of Vodwanians, three Vullanese Knights, three alien humanoids, some Beastmen, Orcs from Gontrella, Argolith Ogres, and Kuruks were among the ones she took down with her firearms, bayonet, tool, and hatchet. Most combatants paused to watch her race towards Vestrisian lines. Forced to dispose of the firearms she lost each weapon after a few swift kills. Losing the bayonet in the throat of an Ogre, the hatchet buried in the shoulder blade of an Orc she managed to take down, the tool shoved into the gut of a Kuruk. As for the flare gun she used it on a large Ogre at close quarters. Some managed to knock her down before each victory, which made her limp a little. Hopping along despite the pain Belle managed to make it to Vestrisian lines yelling out her own name and pilot number. 

Mogrot Of Izvar Island

 As ugly as he was, he still got it easy with the ladies. Especially the curvy ones. His own body appeared grotesquely muscular, thin, and malnourished at the same time. Mogrot eyed another curvaceous creature of beauty, a lesser mage thrall to his own Master. Her name did not escape him, Chryseis the Affectionate one. For six years Chryseis served his Master, Ionephus Tranio as an enchantress, charmer, and illusionist to entertain children or the mentally ill. Mogrot made is advance on Chryseis as she sat on the courtyard bench behind the small Tranio Manor. Once called the Wingweaver Manor this five-bedroom manor once housed a Physician of great renown. Just twelve years ago this Manor was granted to his current Master Ionephus Tranio the Yasolle-Nymresian Bishop-Mage of the Vullanese Church. For thirty-three years Mogrot was a servant to Tranio. Acting as a spy, informant, pickpocket, burglar, household overseer, Acolyte, and scavenger Mogrot became a member of Tranio's crafted family. His overseer, acolyte, and informant positions gave him power over the maids Tranio hired. This Manor went through four maids who stole something, broke something, or were caught sending secrets to Tranio's rivals abroad. Killing them outright would do the Manor no good. An arrest could be made, but that took forever/ It required evidence, time, money, and extra paperwork. Physical punishment by mutilation would ruin the Tranio name. Banishing could work however those maids could easily go to his rivals who despised pregnant women and children. Mogrot had his way with these maids giving them an offspring they regretted having. 

He would be accused of rape, which only happened once. Tranio beat him for that. What Mogrot did was sweet talk them into copulation. The same thing he was close to doing to Chryseis, a half human, half Nymph, or Zunia-Puck. One race of humanoids who had identical to humans except for small horns on the head, or hooves for feet. No tail or anything on their rearend. Mogrot's lips became wet as his whole body became aroused upon closing in. His nostrils flared while picking up her sweet scent of cinnamon. In moments he pounced casting a charm spell through his fingertips as they grasped her inappropriately. She gave out a startled cry, yet the charms made her submissive to his advances. Taking his sweet time Mogrot filled her with himself and enjoyed every moment. His mind and eyes focused on his latest target. Her breasts moving up and down pleased him as he thrust until Mogrot finished her off. Although she was a guest, Chryseis became a threat to Tranio after hinting at her connections with some friends in the VUVR. Mogrot believed she would be too focused on the pregnancy to even act against Tranio or him. If she found out it was Mogrot. He slunk back inside the Manor through the cellar by a trap door within the bushes of the courtyard. Mogrot knew of men who would flat out beat women senseless over many things within the city. Mors Morashe, Piros Priosten, Buct Vapore, and the Warlock Half-Orc Gramanar were known to do this as punishment. Mogrot recounted at least 27 women reported to be assaulted as a punishment over smuggling or failing a task. They were not the only ones punished via bruises, or beatings. Plenty of children, weaker men, youth are often found in streets outside their master's house. Although they are not exactly slaves, they are considered wards, indentured thralls, apprentices or acolytes. Mogrot captured one such youth who started working for one of Tranio's business partners in glass working, chemistry, and bottler business. 

"Now you scrawny pretty catamite twerp! What did you find inside my master's Private Study?" Mogrot began questioning the Zedirian youth that looked more elvish in appearance. Mogrot, and two other cronies of Tranio held the youth in a restraining chair made from wood, and rough iron. It was not made to look comfortable in any way. Tranio's other cronies, a female Drow known as Endamo Yirsel the Rogue-Highwayman, an Orc Brute Agent called Omaghed began pressing down on the captured acolyte. Metal bars that stuck out dug into certain parts of his legs causing him pain and to squirm. What was an ornately dressed acolyte youth of Bugbore House in a tunic style shirt of purple, and orange pants, now a captive humanoid in torn clothing. His body shook from the pain, and sniveling because of the pain. Mogrot looked at the youth then at his exposed shoulder, nipple, and ribcage. Talk damn you, talk. When he motioned for the two to press again the youth tried springing back up. 

"NO! I'll speak, I'll talk just don't harm Brinn the Artist, she is precious to Bugbore and House Veed!" He begged the captors. Mogrot smiled a little admiring this whelp's goal in keeping someone safe. He was about to continue when footsteps came storming down the steps to the cellar. 

"STOP!! Release the acolyte back to Bugbore as soon as they are ready. Whatever he knows and has done will not matter this time. We have bigger problems to take care of!" Ionephus Tranio appeared into their view as he came around the wall lining the stairs. He wore a matching vest and shirt of honey gold with thin black stripes, dark blue pants, triple strapped Monk shoes. Standing at 6'1 Ionephus towered over most townsfolk and city dwellers of Comigne-Panapple. Slick-backed short ponytail, triangular shapes, straight nose, square ears, hard angled eyebrows, pointed chin, and high boned cheeks, Ionephus possessed some scars on his face. On the right side of his face behind the eyebrow and along the hair line was an arcane symbol of dominance. His three agents and servants stared at him with disbelief on their faces. 

"Why do you ask us to stop? This whelp intruded upon your private study, snooping about." Endamo protested with a good argument that Ionephus could turn down. Her strong, thin heart shaped face grew a little grim. 

"We are going to war! Vullan is now at war with the V.U.V.R. Release the little pathetic pansy. Yirsel, Omaghed go check yourselves in with the city-guards or militia so you can avoid the draft. Millions will volunteer and become drafted for this. I will not see either of you be thrown against machine guns! Mogrot, to me!" Ionephus barked at the trio. Mogrot felt a great amount of delight in being summoned. 

Leaving the two-fellow acolyte-agents, Mogrot rushed to his master's side. The cellar walls were lined with a variety of melee weapons, torture tools, regular tools, retractable furniture on walls, and shelves of various chemicals, and potions. Mogrot took a look at his own clothing, not rags like most creepy creatures like himself. He was dressed in a laced hoodie, man-skirt worn in parts of Vullan, Boathria, and Vidothra, Mogrot wore the Vullanese collared street slippers. Easier for sneaking around the streets despite the material getting dirty or wet at the bottom. For something without a sole, these shoes could easily be washed thanks to them being dipped in a substance that make them feel rubbery. His master opened a hidden door on the wall while Endoma, and Omaghed carried the prisoner back upstairs. Inside the wall his master had installed a radio station with communication system, microphone, rotary wall phone, and telegram. Right there his master began summoning his own force among allies, and old colleagues from the past. Izvar did have three mountains on its Vullanese side. Its coasts held more rockier beaches, and cliff faces many found difficult to traverse or climb. A natural barrier of defenses still needed manpower to man and hold against waves of enemies. To the south the VUVR's membership stretched across Ottante, the smaller continent only cut off by rivers on one side, mountain ranges on the west side, two bodies of water flanking north and south.  

During peacetime Izvari Vullan forces fielded 8,368 Vullanese regulars, priests, militia, 87 fanatics, 653 zealots, 417 Vullan guards, 358 defenders, 240 troopers, 150 grenadiers, 150 infantry, 556 Man-At Arms, 76 Centurions from Yasolle, 89 Ogres from Mothgar, 164 Dark Elf thralls, and 56 Demon hybrid warlocks. This force would now triple or quadruple because of the manpower required for this upcoming war. More artillery would need to be constructed. At war arcane users held advantages against melee fighters, but against projectile weapons or guns, useless. Yet some have proven to be effective against such odds, except their surroundings have been in their advantage. New aircraft, tanks, and artillery would take that away in a blink of an eye. For several days Ionephus communicated with plenty of colleagues, gathering a formidable force from Nymres, Vodwania, Vidothra, Gontrella, Galaia, and other city-states. Mogrot overheard the movement of 4,800 extra troops moved into 4 Mothgar bases north of Izvar. Ionephus managed to get a hold of a Syndicate Enforcer, Pyromancer, Augmenter, Voracious Vampire somehow still around, Syndicate Enforcer, Princeling, Warlord, Temple Queen, Samurai, Executioner, and Baroness. Weeks later this group of colleagues of Ionephus arrived with their own force of 469 Knights, Footmen, Bowmen, Barbarians, Warlocks, Wizards, Rangers, and explorers. As Izvar and the rest of Vullan's Islands prepared for war over a million people packed up to flee west. Izvar had large number of arcane users, mages, sorcerers, wizards, enchanters that could fill a medium sized city. While Izvar's defending forces swelled to 610,000 defenders. Mogrot was too much of a hunchback in a way to serve, plus he was past the age requirement of 36. He did what Mogrot did best, spy, stalk suspects, carry out blackmail, and plant fake evidence. While prowling the nearly empty city Mogrot found mostly soldiers, and arcane users who stayed put along with volunteers and mercenaries. Checking each one as stealthily as possible he did discover some important information concerning the southern coasts. When he informed his Master, Ionephus, as Bishop sent his army south to deal with whatever Mogrot discovered. Being a servant to Tranio Mogrot learned to use some arcane spells aside from stealth, charm, and manipulation. Mogrot's favorites were teleportation, paralysis, stealth, seal locked, Impair or Blind, Charm, Tormenting voice, and disfigure.  

Making himself useful for Vullan as much as he did for his master, Mogrot used teleportation portal to a port city in the southern parts of Izvar. Using stealth, he moved around the city hearing various rumors and conversations. Some boring, others funny, few were sad, disappointing, and others hardly worth listening to. At the docks he discovered luxury ships turned into troop transports in order to bring in more personnel. In the far distance in the Valde Sea Mogrot spotted Vullanese ships engaging Vestrisian Destroyers. A sight most inhabitants dreaded to watch. Not caring at all about the fate of the sailing fools who took on the Vestrisian Destroyers Mogrot searched for some useful information at a cantina. There he found a Freek, one who is a freak, but without a penis or desires of the flesh. From the very mouth of this Froac Mogrot heard of some crime boss who enjoys torturing, knocking around innocent, or guilty youth and the weak for sport had something going on within the bowels of the undercity. He took this information to the local guards, tipping off any authorities about the froac before returning to Tranio. A few days later he heard from Tranio's lips that 81 pirate-smugglers are discovered in the undercity of a massive port. A fight broke out ending in the deaths of most of the pirates and just as many authorities. Curious about the news Mogrot returned to this city only to find out the froac was killed, and this crime boss fled with one hand missing. Mogrot continued his work as the war progressed into a few months. While stalking another supposed suspect he heard Mothgar had at least 437, 821 combat personnel within 4 months of the war. Those numbers grew due to the distribution of 3.5 million enlisted soldiers. 

Mothgar year 1840-Last defenses

 "Why can't they just surrender already?" Newly promoted Sergeant Triton Jackdaw blindly moaned as his body, brain, and eyes woke around 6:37 in the morning. His squad took up residence or likely squatted in one of the seemingly abandoned two storied townhouses in one of the walled villages. Just eight of them were left in their squad. Four were killed or dead from the fall, and three others wounded. After scrounging around the townhouse, he discovered the household Dark Elf Maid who was now sound asleep next to him in the master's bedroom. 

Named the Exotic Lover by the locals, Rupenda Khalve was a trained dancer, maid, and masseuse. Her massage skills came in handy for them as they were completely sore. At one-point Rupenda started to cry, since she was given an option for the first time. Her life was almost like slavery with some liberties. She had no choice than to appease her master, or any guests he brought over. Those days were now behind her. Triton hoped they were. If she would just load up on an evac truck or train and leave those days would be long gone. To his unit's misfortune Rupenda was not the only servant found in this house, one of hundreds they were likely to leave at some point. It would not be surprising if they were to defend it from Vullanese counterforces or their allies. One fat woman, the household baker/chef named Ugria Ugram Minnispear was still in this house. Someone believed someone did not know how to cook despite his squad eating up the beef stuffed bread that filled them up. Donning the usual baker's uniform Ugria stormed in as if she was going to attack Rupenda. Rupenda jolted awake when the baker stormed in. Alone with the Dark Elf with a fat hog of an Ogre looking woman Triton jumped up grabbing the closest weapon he could find. He shoved a dirk into the face of the angry fat spiteful bitch in defense of Rupenda who had been treated like a fuck toy for years. 

"Waddle your fat ass out of my room! This is no longer your master's place!" He growled at her ready to end the bitch's life. 

Too scared to argue with an armed Vestrisian, Ugria left the room. Rupenda gave him a hug then clung to him for several moments. She pressed her nude body against Triton's showing no signs of letting go of him. A sudden urge to push her off him came and went. She was the one who cooked for them. Yes, they knew how to cook for themselves, but their culinary skills lacked something. Private Meagolson burned one little patty, which he was forced to eat as punishment. With the fat Ugria gone Sergeant Jackdaw prepared for another day, another patrol or mission. Ever since they invaded Vullanese Mothgar his mind went straight to the conflict at hand. It occupied his mind far more than the job he once had for a year. Months went by since they launched the invasion, yet the constant counter attacks stalled them from seizing Mothgar quickly. Soldiers, Fanatics, bands of Harpies, Kuruks, Ogres, swarms of imps, stubborn militia, Grevaskii division, Kuruk clans, Redcap Spawn, Troll Spawn, Zedirian minions, Beastmen spawn warbands, Orcs, and Goblins launched constant counterattacks. Each time ended badly for the Vullanese, but still slowed them down. What did not help was the necromancer creations prowling the countryside, or the catacombs of larger cities. From other soldiers, such as the infantrymen, he learned the fighting was fierce inside the Mothgar cities. Most agreed the Vullanese slowed their advances down throughout the several months of war. Yet Mothgar was sure to fall soon. He found his unit already downstairs at the table. In silence they ate their meals Khalve made them. Each smile in turn as she served them with a bigger grin. Her grin showed how merry she was over Vullan's impending defeat. Once prepared for another day they exited the Commandeered Quarters. Down the street from the townhouses, they came upon more of their comrades at Bart's Ship wheel's Pub. There they caught of an interesting conversation about Colonel Saster. 

"I heard a story about Colonel Saster. He was bullied as an Orc Pup." one half elf soldier said. 

"Bologna!" An olive-skinned Half-Orc spat at him showing disbelief in the story. 

"No it's true, it's true! When someone asked him about it, he said it made him stronger these days know he survived that abuse." The Half-Elf insisted, but the Half-Orc shook his head not believing a word of it. 

"Shut it the lot of you! We need to get over to the next town. But I warn you, scouts, and planes spotted caltrops of different sizes spread all over the roads, and some fields." 

Close to three trains found in Mothgar woods, the company moved where there were hardly any caltrops. That job was given to teams of saboteurs, and trap cleaners. His own unit was to meet at the Wagon Wheel Rest Stop Lodge outside of town. Units from the infantry branches, and some armored joined them in mixed units. Many of them complained how Mothgar's fall was taking so long. Hordes of hostiles, necromancers' undead, and various arcane users stalled their advances. Yet it was at a great cost. Mines also slowed their advances down, which the Vullanese barely took advantage of. Combining their force with other units they formed a company of 268 soldiers, airborne, troopers, grunts, and infantry. That company of fighters turned into a small battalion of 415 with vehicles joining when 147 infantrymen joined them. This combined force did not just consist of footmen, but seven tanks, 3 armored half-tracks, 2 jeeps, 3 troop transports. Under the command of an Elf Colonel known as Vinali Thorwan of Zedarkhaand, a veteran commander from the Castarian Wars, Zegrav Conflict, and a few others Zedarkhaand must have been involved in, the combined battalion made their move. Among the engines, boots on the cobbled main road, Triton could also hear an annoying Private go on about the settlements they captured. 

"Angelhaven, Heartboy, Glimmerland, Crystalstall, Lightpeak, Diregarde, Lagoonsheer, Irontide, Flatside, Lostport, Farfell, Oldyard, Sandshire, Eagelmoot, Dimhold, Glimmercoast, Direhost, Ghostgarde, Lostward, Beachdale, Rustpoint, Stagshell, Deerdrift, Puremouth, Silverburgh, Stormscar, Silentmouth, Swiftfront, Dirtgate, Mightstall, Roseford, Dogmere, all those are places I've never heard of. How many more towns do we got to take?" He vexed those around him. Several scoffed at him, others scowled, some even made the three forked gesture at him. This Private ignored them all then began to vex again intentionally. 

"Entire Islands Private Pinhead bigmouth!" one Captain barked at the Private known as Pester Pete. Triton eyed this Private for a few seconds hearing the name Private Piviv Takkam being screamed at the Private's face. Triton looked at the Captain, seeing he was a half-elf named Vig Vattal. 

That Private shut up after Captain Vig Vattal's barked his face off. Triton watched this Captain Vattal, astride a chestnut coffee horse, leave the Private shaken. Wearing a uniform of khaki natural brown with leather added to it, Vattal appeared to blend in a little compared to Takkam's greenish-brown uniform. Vestrisians did don the blue dyed uniform, however other dyes were issued for the military. Colors of dark green, pine green, brown shades, camouflage, tan or white were among the colors for uniforms or fatigues. Captain Vattal's rank allowed him to wear a brooch with his own uniform. Dressed just like any infantry trooper with the cargo pockets, shortened collar, Vattal donned the issued open faced modern sallet helmet, and all terrain boots. Over this uniform Vattal wore a green cloak. It seemed out of place, but likely fooled some into mistaking him for a random rider. Riding ahead of their convoy, the mounted Captain did not hesitate to make them stop in the road. Stopping like this was not good. Their location on the road, although on an island had some scattered ruins on the flanks, a few patches of foliage along the roads, an isolated farmstead within a sharpshooter's distance in the rear. Directly on the right stood a small hovel of a village. In silence he looked around like all the other soldiers did while coming to a halt. His feet could use the rest from all that walking. He sat on one of the protruding wheels of the trucks they commandeered. One of the few that still operated. Triton recalled the casualties their brethren suffered over the walled villages. All those houses were called "toomich" homes, meaning too many houses packed into a village in the form of complexes.  

Within that one region of Mothgar and two others their airborne brigade lost many members. Six hundred twenty-nine airborne died during the drop of 5,000, a total of 947 found injured, or wounded. Another round of losses included 197 killed in a battle, and 187 wounded during that fighting against the counterattack. More than sixty to seventy thousand infantry, tanks, and armored vehicles came to their locations. Backed by another reserve of fifty thousand soldiers, the extra forces prepared them to hold against more counter attacks. Several months later and they were pushing further into Mothgar. Facing constant futile resistance, counter attacks, and hold outs, Triton lost count of how many they lost or killed. For their larger force to meet the airborne they went through various settlements. It was not without fighting through lines of Vullanese defenders. Reports of ambushes made by the desperate defenders flooded their ears. Not to mention the counterattacks they endured six to seven months into this war. Vullan showed desperation on clinging to territory. A massive force of 189,000 old veterans launched a counter offensive on Izvar, Mothgar, and Euzvame. To the V.U.V.R. it was a headache to deal with. Slaying old men that became combatants felt wrong to some Vestrisians. Others respected their wishes to die in the field of battle. 

As they waited for Captain Vattal to return, he overheard what went down in Izvar. Four months into this war having already taken ten cities, and towns, the Vestrisians pushed deeper into the Vullanese half of Izvar Island. Despite their gains, their own V.U.V.R. forces found themselves slowed down. According to rumors that spread, mages, sorcerers, wizards, arcane users, used spells to halt their advances while main Vullanese defenses crumbled. Triton's attention was drawn away from thoughts on the Izvari situation. From their right flank, twenty-four strange humanoids emerge from ruins and the foliage. One Orc in heavy black armor, an armored non-Calornese Elf with one ear torn off, ten octopus headed warriors, 5 alien barbarians, one handsome stout-man hybrid, heavily armored tall elf, 3 alien humanoids in combat gear, some humanoid owl dressed like a Cleric, and some dinosaur humanoid warrior. Each one wore the Grevaskii or modern Vullanese uniform under their armor. Triton made a cruel mocking grin on his face. He wasn't the only one, though. As evil as it seemed on their part, the Vestrisians had their reasons to gun down these Vullanese and followers. His neighbor one day left for the Vullanese Islands under the impression that it was just a job. Reality kicked in fast when she did not return home the next year as planned. She became a ward of service, a thrall to a priest. His neighbor wasn't the only one who fell into that trap. After the evidence and reports flooded in all that evidence went towards Vullan's Order and followers. 

When everyone raised their weapons the short handsome one sprang into action. Unsheathing a bearded axe, and war pick this handsome stout man began cutting down the others. He started with the alien barbarian next to him with an axe blow to the exposed neck. Using the war pick he bashed the octopus headed humanoid to his right. Before this lone "traitor" could attack another, he was shoved to the ground by the Orc, and a second Barbarian. Twenty began to encircle one. Poised to strike him down the remaining twenty-one figures only found themselves gunned down. One volley from over a hundred metal barrels did the lot in. Whoever this handsome stout man was they turned out to be a Vestrisian agent sent to infiltrate Vullanes forces. 

Barely getting a chance to introduce himself as Lieutenant Mochael Catan, this agent-spy had to duck again. This time he dove towards his countrymen when a horde of war cries rose up from behind him. Another group of Vullanese defenders emerged. What had to be a force of over a thousand strong revealed themselves from three locations. Sergeant Triton noticed these Vullanese defenders consisted of Vodwanians, Grevaskii, Drow, Demon Spawn, and Vidothrans. Most of this new encounter appeared armed with long hafted axes, Folteri Bolt Action, Windkisser23s, lever rifles. Other weapons did include old style melee weapons. It seemed weird for any modern army to still use melee weapons in combat. Triton guessed it had more to do with ammo shortage. Right as these Vullanese charged another group of VUVR attacked from their flank. Ranging from 600 to 715 Infantry, Airborne, and Rangers made up this flanking VUVR force. In moments the Vullanese force was wiped out by the flanking force and their target. A quick victory which came too easily spelled something was off. Yes they felt relief, but this could be a distraction from something bigger. Captain Vattal came racing back over the moment it ended. About a score or so got a shot off or two at the Vestrisians. Captain Vattal approached them as they checked for survivors. Among this force Triton’s comrades found 930 Vodwanian Axemen, 6 curs, 164 Drow, 56 Demon Spawns, 6 Vidothran Grevaskii all in modern uniforms, or Nazdar fatigues. None of them were allowed to loot any of the bodies. Plenty of locals either left, or silently detest the Vestrisians. So, nothing could be sold to them, plus their own countrymen loathed the Vullanese over the mass indoctrination of servitude, and secret temples built on Boathrian soil. Triton could tell many of these combatants were very religious followers, and thralls, or former thralls turned initiates in the main Vullanese Religion. Among these devout soldiers, allies, and Grevaskii they found fourteen survivors, ten of whom were severely wounded. The four that were not on death's door were part of a group of 15 Order members that orchestrated this rally against the Vestrisian Invaders. 

All the officers ordered for the rest of them to scour the area ahead of them. It may have been trailing Captain Vattal's footsteps, but it produced some interesting finds. A cattle car on tracks with almost nothing inside, except for bags of inhalable drugs in plant from that allowed communication with the dead. One temple along the road with snake candles barely used or used up over time. Somewhere towards the south their comrades discovered an arcane academy that was abandoned due to bombings. All its students and staff fled, leaving everything else behind. One of Triton's squad mates picked up an abandoned doll only to put it back down realizing how much these people resented them or feared the Vestrisian. Moving further along the route Vattal took Triton's unit found an abandoned village of 1,009 buildings. Completely deserted, this village had enough room for their units to rest up. While searching one street at a time they found the usual items, and abandoned supplies that could be found in any village. Sergeant Triton searched one particular house that was clearly abandoned for weeks. On the table inside its kitchen, he found a map of a continent on some different planet splayed out. It had islands and continents that held no resemblance to their own world of Calorn. A set of twelve Vestrisian Eagle coins were laid out on the map itself ready to be placed in a coin bag. With no one looking around he immediately stashed the coins in his pack. They were the only things taken from the house. Somewhere else in this village one Airborne discovered a cellar full of gold ingots, ores, copper, silver, tin, calladium, gibe, and jewels. All of this find was packed in that cellar. Zero time to even clear this out, the Vestrisians kept on searching this village along with a few other settlements nearby. Triton and his own unit found some stragglers deeper in the village along with a Boathrin soldier named Buris who buried his face into the buttocks of a female rogue from Koriv whom put a seduction spell on him. Her original plan was rendering him useless, and idle while under some seduction spell meant to enchant the target. It clearly backfired as she did not get out of the cottage fast enough after casting it. His squad mates called her the "Kurahu damsel in distress". Kurahu was the original name of the Koriv states before the Gantronese took over according to the stories he heard or read on old news pamphlets his uncle kept around. 

Ten days passed with hardly anything happening. Their forces had to stay put, which allowed them to rest. It also gave time to set up defenses. More discoveries were made. An aspiring Commander known as Jimbar of Vullan was killed along with his bodyguard while he hid inside their occupied settlement. This one was responsible for the victories Mothgar's defenders achieved a few months back. It only delayed Vestrisian advances. An expert spy was found with his exotic dancer along with false documents. Called Agent Red Stealth, this spy was sent over to observe the movements and military strengths on Mothgar Island. According to him Vullanese forces massed a large force to push them out. It would be another three days before this larger force pushed their counterattack. Unfortunate for them another force of 250,000 marched its way towards their last defenses. All Sergeant Jackdaw and the others had to do was wait for the main forces to arrive. Barely two days passed before two hundred thousand Vestrisians entered the area, spread out to cover more ground. Entire units of Infantrymen, Mortar Teams, Machinegun crews, fire teams, rifle squads, sharpshooter teams, artillery teams, saboteurs, tanks, and anti-armored crews spread out. Forming a set of defendable positions, the Vestrisians allowed this Vullanese force to attack them. Advancing forward for a number of leagues then stopping to defend worked in their favor. For about eleven days they engaged this Vullanese force, which attempted multiple tactics. 

On the eighth day Grevaskii, Nymresian, and Nazdar forces arrived with 4,774 troopers Amed with up-to-date weaponry, some combat armor, training, and battlefield experience proved difficult to tackle at first. His unit clung to the road they were assigned to protect. More than just infantry came at them on this road. Tanks, half-tracks, armored motorbikes pressed their own advances. Seeing Vullanese tanks roll up brought some dread to those who watched the bullets ricochet back at them. One tank ran over a Vullanese mine while avoiding artillery, and anti-tank projectiles. These mines appeared everywhere or at least in a pattern that forced vehicles towards obstacles they laid out. Mines were a variety of weapons the Vullanese, and allies threw at them, which these defenders neglected somehow. Just watching entire units snake their way across revealed where some mines were on the field. Triton tried keeping track this, but the constant exchange of fire, exploding shells, turret fire, artillery, and downed vehicles disrupted his concentration. His own squad mates fired many rounds into the scattered, but jumbled ranks. The enemy still returned fire despite the suppressing fire. One Bunyip Island Tank round whizzed over his head by a forearm. Behind this Bunyip rolled two other Bunyips, three Gumbero Tanks, and a single C-95 Tempest Tank. Each tank came accompanied by three S-12 Hellions of Vullan, the car tanks of Vullan's military. These S-12 Hellions were also accompanied by a platoon of ground troops. More Vullanese came after their positions in the area flanking the village. As the fighting over this road grew heavy more units rushed to hold it. So much noise drowned everything out that even the approach of their own aircraft could not be heard well enough. 

Coming from their back flanks hundreds of Arrowhawk 500s, Holy Angels, Screaming Hawks, Roaring Eagles, and early Dreamfires made up a well-timed cavalry to the rescue. He was certain there had to be 866 of their own aircraft bearing down on the Vullanese forces. Scores of vehicles, thousands of personnel became decimated from dropped bombs and their guns. One wave of Vullanese counterforce crumbled before the Vestrisian forces, which stalled claiming all of Mothgar main island while taking the north island of Slyrim. Sergeant Jackdaw stood up to witness this Vullanese force retreat. It would not be long before the rest of Mothgar fell. His gaze returned to the skies only to witness a wave of a thousand Vullanese aircraft intercept their own VUVR. As he watched them two forces collide in the air Triton thought of their progress below them. Thousands of tanks and entire divisions pressed further into Izvar, and Mothgar. About an hour's worth of dogfighting ensued between their own aircraft and Vullanese Pale Hornets, Cloudflares, and other aircraft. Numerous aircraft already fell like flies in this massed ballet or bees dance of a dogfight. All units were ordered to stop before pursuing any further, allowing the Vestrisians rest, their enemy to flee. Their commanders ordered for them to wait for the dogfight to be finished along with the bombing run that came behind the wave of aircraft. Nearly two hundred Light Classic Boys, Light Blue Leviathans, and militarized Storm Titan bombers flew overhead. Each bomber had their own set of targets they were going to destroy or make an attempt as the Vullanese Anti-Aircraft guns opened fire. 

 In a slow process of searching the fallen for survivors and rounding up prisoners, the Vestrisians came across lost stragglers. Triton and his squad led three Privates towards a pile of destroyed vehicles near some downed tanks. Six Bunyip Island Tanks could barely be recognized after the beatings and hits each one took. Round shaped metal sheets forged into large shields protected the sides of the Bunyip Tank. It appeared smaller than most tanks in their arsenal. Only required a team of four to crew their hull, the Bunyip was armed with a turret resembling a crab's head holding a straight pipe to its mouth. At first someone among them, Private Omberson, made a crude jest that was not able to be finished. One of Titan's squad mates, Private Meagolson, spotted a small group of Vullanese foot soldiers, and Strikers snatching up weapons and supplies from the dead. His unit watched these Vullanese collect what they could from behind the cover of vehicles. For the Vullanese a grouping of trees, wild bushes, and some ruined walls acted as their fallback cover once they were done. 

Another hour of scouring the area and searching the dead, Triton's unit came across 22 more Vullanese defenders. At a campsite of two tents near an old archway to an abandoned garden outside a wooden bridge like dock with a single boat on the river. Some parts of the bridge lay in ruin due to the bombings. No one could get a look at the damage as the Vullanese caught sight of them and opened fire. Thirteen were shot dead, one attempted to punch them, while another shielded the escape for the rest. His squad lost Private Nyburnz in the encounter to the one shielding the escape. When the Vestrisians rendezvoused at the village area their reports included Vullanese forces rose to 113,000 just before the fighting commenced. An eighth of that force retreated after their defeat. The way these Vullanese threw themselves at their lines resulted in 53,493 dead, 33,600 wounded, 6,962 surrendered, 2,594, Turncoats, 219 going AWOL, and 2007 missing in action. One Officer recounted how Vullanese shot at the ones who surrendered from behind cover whenever they gave up in the open. It seemed like a common occurrence that happened along the frontlines on Mothgar. Their own forces suffered 10,266 KIA, 42,379 wounded mainly to melee combatants who charged, 876 missing after a counterattack, and 554 of their own brethren taken prisoner. Other reports about wild animals, dead civilians, monster attacks, necromancer zombies added to their losses. 

Capturing weapons, vehicles, tanks, more stragglers led to the discoveries of more abandoned villages, destroyed settlements, homes, and some interesting new weapons the Vullanese attempting using during the fighting. Vullan had an Anti-Air chain gun called the AAR 94 or the Anti-Air Rattler for taking down planes while mounted on treaded vehicles. Somewhere a team of riflemen discovered a depraved drinker who broke free after the attack and bombing runs. A few days passed by before the army moved out. Scouting parties, or patrols returned with similar reports of entire areas abandoned by the Vullanese. Some came across 3 tanks, 8 isolated mortar teams still active, 16 dump trucks full of various weapons, ammunition, and other essential supplies, and five tank killers. Ten of those dump trucks managed to get out of their reach. Others ran into small bands of Gnolls that required liquidating, or appeasing. Two bands of these Gnolls avoided liquidation after showing some hint of civilizing. No one believed it was possible, yet it happened, a civilized Gnoll. 

As they gathered in force for the final push Sergeant Jackdaw thought of the various warriors, soldiers they fought. Ruffians and hired Thugs called Thags broke easily. Either fleeing, surrendering, or switching sides, these hired hands barely took out the fight in the rest of the Vullanese forces. Various knights, cultists, Cathars, paladins, squires, veterans, guards, mages, devout soldiers, harpies, goblins, orcs, champions, militia, monks and other humanoid monsters found among their ranks showed Vullan's influence. Each one wore the same identical uniforms of the new style. Pressing forward wasn't an option Mothgar's last standing settlements lay within reach. Forced to leave 40,000 of their forces to defend their gains and their wounded, or dead sent away, a sizeable force of 100,000 raced to engulf the rest of Mothgar. A trail of downed aircraft, abandoned settlements, discarded transports, dead animals, execution sites, and lightly buried dead posed as minor obstacles in their path. 

Coming to the ends of Mothgar's coasts they found 29,435 Vullanese defenders left. With the fall of Slyrim Island the 29,000 remaining Vullanese manned positions at old forts, port cities defended by trenches, and a firth, some narrow inlet on Mothgar's southwestern coast. Vullan showed great determination to hold on to their positions. Traps laid out in their pathway, slowed down some of their progress. Yet saboteurs, and engineers cleared a fourth of the traps and mines the Vullanese hastily set up. Artillery strikes cleared up most of what their saboteurs missed. At this firth under Vattal's, Saster's, and Thorwan's command 6,500 launched their assault with a supporting force of 10,000. What they did not expect was for their own fleet to send landing parties to assist. About 7.000 sailors turned to land infantry went after the flanks of the firth settlements. Certain these 29,000 Vullanese defenders had themselves spread out, Vestrisian forces closed in like a pack of wolves on a crippled deer. As cruel as it seemed their overwhelming encirclement swept through the defenses quickly. Pouring through the streets they gave the Vullanese an impossible fight to win. In three settlements Vestrisian forces took out what remained of Vullan's Mothgar defenders. On their own part it took three days. Other defenses capitulated, one fortress fell in five days, another took six to seven days.

What they captured in one coastal town in the south was an unfinished church, a couple of trade buildings, damaged dock building, functional factory, foundation of a barracks, 2 trade stores, a couple of unscathed churches that survived the bombing runs. Just outside the town they found a plantation run by a mixture of Dark Elves, Half Goblins, other non-Vullanese peoples. A total of 62 houses still stood after all that fighting. A couple of mills seem operational, one marketplace remained, 3 other dock buildings by the dock, two stables, 3 barracks, 7 towers, an artillery foundry now sat in Vestrisian Hands. Despite all that fighting 18 Vullanese citizens still worked as if nothing happened. On the water they spotted 18 fishing boats carrying on. At the docks moored two frigates, 7 caravels, and 3 old galleons, which had no business still being operational. They made good uses in terms of constant transport, but became target practice for the Vestrisian navy. As for the prisoners brought in ten thousand chose to give up, three thousand wounded, while the rest died in the fighting or took thier own lives. Nine to twelve settlements made up the defenders' last stand on Mothgar. Just Triton, the five remaining squad mates, the two newer members plus one fresh member were free from checking prisoners, wounded, the dead, and remaining civilians. Privates Meagolson, Garrington, Cranberry, Smithers, Arrowsmith, Bullyce, Omberson, Corporal Greene and one Sergeant Jackdaw moved around a bit more. Buildings in one port on the firth lay in different conditions depending on which ones were hit by a bomb, shot up, or hit by artillery, tanks or left unscathed. Triton spotted an embassy by the larger docks with various flags representing different nations waving in the wind a little. Made from bricks, painted a gold color the embassy had some parts made from wood. Triton felt some relief seeing a building like this unscathed from this war. Moving back towards their main units through the cobbled streets they discovered a few things happened. An Al-Dadorian Tutor acting as an indentured servant died from a stray bullet while in the study in the larger town. The Lieutenant responsible was about to be court-martialed for shooting a civilian. In the north their forces captured 17 artillery pieces plus one old ship. A sniper team in search of a higher position found a torn wedding dress halfway out of a chest draped over a victim of an assault. Stories of encounters, and how one or more enemies went down from hundreds of voices entered their ears as they came up to Thorwan and Saster. When they gave the salute, their commanders gave them the privilege to raise the V.U.V.R. flag over the last defenses of Mothgar.