Bisca's Journey

by thehappy

Occurs immediately after the end of Dragon of the Cog. Summoned to a new world, Bisca will face new challenges, monsters and hardships on her quest to return home. With several new companions, Bisca will walk the path of a hero paved with blood and war.

7. Traveling Eastward

Well, here I am with another chapter! Obviously, lots of stuff happened last time, including a battle with a floating eyeball…which exploded. Not to mention a RPG leveling system which is really pointless! Seriously, why would I put that in? Because it's an Isekai story…kinda. Might as well piss off Bisca with it!

Anyway, I might write two chapters right in a row, not sure yet.

Chapter Seven: Traveling Eastward

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Location Unknown. 501 H.A. October 23rd

Snow and chilled wind blew, cutting through the trees as the four women walked along the overgrown forest path toward the unknown town. The biting cold was horrible, freezing the remaining fluids from the eyeball monster as Vera's teeth started to chatter.

"B… !" Clutching her fire imbued sword, the dark elf tried to stay warm as more snow slew and gusted. Pushing past several branches, the laden snow fell in a clump as some dusted away.

"Try not to think about it" Bisca suggested, her own cheeks and exposed skin taking on a bright tint from the winter storm. Boots crunching some snow, she looked toward the rapidly approaching town through the trees.

"Here" Holding up her staff, a small ball of fire and heat appeared at the end as Dia walked near Vera, the feline mage using magic to warm her companion. It pulsed and flowed, a small effort to keep the ice at bay.

Vera sighed in thank's, the worst of the cold pushed away as the four continued to push through the forest.

Finally stumbling upon a narrow dirt road at the edge of the woods and several farms, the group continued past frozen fields that had already been harvested. Several small homes dotted the landscape, no doubt the farmers and their families bundled down inside as several belched smoke from chimneys.

"We are being watched" Celeste pointed out, the four passing by a farmhouse as the path joined a larger road.

"It doesn't matter" Bisca added, the woman fighting the freezing goop and ichor covering her skin and armor. As long as they weren't attacked by some insane farmer with a pitchfork, she didn't care.

Footfalls crunching the freshly fallen snow as more flakes fell with lazy ease, the four females finally reached the main gate of the town. It was partially opened, the two guards nearby, swinging at air with horrified looks on their faces. Their blades sliced through air, a swiftness as one of the men cried. "STAY AWAY! STAY AWAY!" Bringing his sword down in an overhead strike, he embedded the blade into the frozen soil, his target invisible.

Other cries came from within the city, a cacophony of fear and anguish.

"OH GOD! WHAT IS IT!?"

"WHY WONT IT GO AWAY!"

"AAHHH! IT'S FOLLOWING ME!"

Scowling, Bisca pushed past the open gate, the soldier leading the way as her party followed.

Inside was worse.

Men and women screamed, flailing at some invisible force while others attacked each other in some insane reasoning of blame and mistrust. A woman backed up in the middle of the road, her warm coat and boots hiding the majority of her body from the cold. "Wh..why am I a level three waitress! What is this!?" Swinging a fist, the blonde female found it didn't work as the vision remained.

Another man howled, crawling away in sheer panic as the invisible data screen followed him along the stone road through the center of town. All around the four, citizens were in a panic, each yelling, shouting, or trying to fight something that wasn't there in the first place.

Realization shot through the four, each instantly realizing what these people were seeing.

"It's the blessing of Lanis! These people have never seen anything like it!" Celeste spouted, the holy knight spinning toward the blonde woman who swung at air, her fear palpable. "SAY STATUS SCREEN!"

"What!?" The female shouted, only to trip over her own feet and fall backwards. Looking up, only she could see the floating information as it followed her in a silence menace.

"Say it!"

The woman complied, her voice a tremble as she finally backed up against a doorframe. "S..status screen"

A sigh came a moment later, the blonde slumping down as relief crossed her features. Looking up at the four, she gulped. "How did you know that would end the visions?"

Bisca pushed forward, her scowl prominent as her green haired flowed beneath her hat. Still splattered with frozen gore and ichor, she stared down at the female. "That doesn't matter. What I want to know is if this town has an adventure guild and more importantly, an inn"

Swiftly nodding, the civilian pointed Eastward toward the center of town, her voice suddenly fearful of the heavily armed woman glaring down at her.

"Thanks. Spread the word to your neighbors" Turning abruptly, Bisca waved her gloved hand. "Come on. We can check in at the guild and find a room"

"What about informing the civilians? The blessing of Lanis…if this is happening here, it's probably happening everywhere" Vera added, the dark elf avoiding a fleeing man in a dark tunic who's face was gripped in fear.

"We'll inform the guild. They'll spread the word faster than we can" Bisca shook her head. "Stupid fucking thing. Seriously…levels? What crap" She ignored more of the townspeople in distress, the majority just running around screaming and howling in fear. Sure a few fought, but most just appeared to be afraid of their personal status screen.

Crossing the bridge and river, the buildings became slightly more upscale, but not by much considering the size of this town. Passing a few younger men kicking at air along the far side of the bridge, each woman ignored the trio who cursed at the invisible screen that tormented them.

"I really don't get why they're afraid. It's just a screen" Dia inquired.

"Obviously they've become overcome with the blessing and are screaming with joy" Celeste concluded, much to the annoyance of Bisca who simply shook her head.

"I hope you're kidding" Walking past a forge with the snow falling heavier, a man with a black beard stood at the entrance, his smock covered in ash and soot.

"I'm a level eight blacksmith! What does that even mean!" Swinging a hammer, the male whiffed air.

"Oh, for the love of…SAY STATUS SCREEN!" Bisca shouted, her hair billowing from another frigid gust. Stomping past as a few citizens heeded the words, the group finally reached the adventure guild.

Like many others, this one had an identical construction, a standard template despite the walls and windows showing more wear and tear from lower maintenance.

Pushing the door open, the four entered, the snow and ice defeated by the warmth and roaring fire the filled the structure.

Several men sat at tables toward the left, their appearance grimy and sinister. Most had the appearance of brigands or bandits judging by many sporting tattoos, earrings, and rusting armor. Laughing uproariously with drink and food, the presumed leader grabbed one of the female guild workers.

"Come here, babe" Smirking, the bald man in hulking armor wrenched the woman onto his lap with a sickly smile.

"L…let me go!" Trying to get away, the busty pink haired rabbit woman struggled, only to have the mercenary grip her tighter.

"Nah…see I already figured out whatever this...thing is. We can gain experience, new skills, and money! And since I'm a level twelve swordsman that means I'm the strongest man in Stronn! And strong men need women! In fact, this guild hall is now my headquarters!" Laughing uproariously, he grabbed the woman's left breast, squeezing it as his men laughed.

The few remaining adventurers and guild workers seemed frozen, none having the strength to take on a full party despite their angry looks.

Bisca marched up, her rage and anger visible. Grabbing the adventurer by the back of the head, she slammed his face into the table with a sickening crunch of bone and cartilage. Keeping his face pressed down, Bisca pulled her combat blade and stabbed the table a mere inch from the man's bleeding nose, causing a light struggle.

"You bitch! Do you.."

Bisca pulled the blade, putting it right next to the man's left eye, her demeanor hostile.

Leaning down, her voice was a sneer as her comrades readied for a fight against the brutes. "You know…if you're going to brag about levels, you should at least be level twenty like my friend Celeste here. Or maybe…level fifty two like myself…yet here you are…bragging about nothing" Wrenching his head up, she slammed it into the table again, causing a fresh crunch of pain.

"AhhH! My nowse! You bwoke my nowse!"

"Shut up" Wrenching the man to his feet, Bisca guided him to the guild door…and promptly threw him out into the snow.

"BOSS! You'll pay for th—" One man yelled, only to face down the burning and freezing swords of Vera. The dark elf stood tall, her blades sheening under the lights of the hall. Even the points seemed to dazzle, the frost and heat cascading slowly to the floor as Dia began to form a fresh spell.

Glaring in defiance, the five men began to ready their weapons in the hall, each pulling a blade or slowly building up a spell.

Obviously not learning his lesson, the mercenary leader walked back into the hall, blood flowing down his face as he clutched his sword. "YOU BITWCH! JUST WAIT UNTIL I MAWKE YOU SCWEAM!" Charging forward, his rage was palpable in his desire to cut down the emerald haired woman.

Pulling her Boltok revolver as the frosted ichor and gore began to melt down her armor, Bisco pointed it at the charging man's head and fired.

Exploding in a harsh paste of brain matter and blood, the mercenaries body fell to the floor, his upper skull open to leak viscous gore.

Level Twelve Bandit

940 Experience

The words floated in the air for a brief moment, then dissipated like vapor as the points flew toward Bisca, a small ticking sound flowing through her body.

"Fuck this RPG crap! Status Screen!"

It appeared before Bisca, the information invisible to all except her. Looking at her current experience, it had risen by nine hundred and forty points, another damn annoyance as her eye twitched. Dispelling the floating screen with a simple utter, her anger grew with each step over to the deceased man.

Stepping over to the body, Bisca slowly turned to the hostile party, her eyes like fire as she held her revolver tightly, the barrel still unleashing tendrils of smoke. "Now…Anybody else want to try and fuck with me? Because I'm really pissed off today"

The men gulped, taking a few steps backward as they began to realize how fucked they were.

"S…shit! Fuck this, I quit!" Running for the guild door, one of the swordmen tripped over his dead boss, splaying outward before scrambling to escape. Not being left behind, the rest fled, the fear pushing them from the Stronn guild hall.

Re-holstering her sidearm, Bisca glanced toward the pink haired rabbit woman, then to the other adventurers in the hall before raising her voice. "The current situation is because of a magical event in the bottom floor of a nearby dungeon. From what my party can gather, it is a simple guide for a leveling system bestowed upon this world by the Goddess Lanis. I for one think its dumb as shit, but it presumably flowed across the world"

"Wait…what dungeon!?" a female elf asked, her slender form wrapped in a cloak as she stood near the fireplace.

"There's a dungeon a few miles west of here. We got transported there by a madman king. Don't worry, lots of treasure is still at the bottom" Dia explained with a light smile.

Looking down at the body seeping gore, Gabby then glanced at the four women that had saved her from the wandering hands of the ex-adventurer. "Do…do you have any idea what a dungeon will mean to Stronn? To the region and country of Jassin!" Forgetting the fear and stink of blood, Gabby practically jumped over to Bisca, her large breasts almost escaping from her uniform in a heaving bounce.

"We're rich! Stronn will be a..a..a DUNGEON TOWN! WOOOOOO!" Raising her arms as her wonderful cleavage gave another busty bounce, the rabbit woman was joined by her co-workers and several men and women of all races cheering.

"Uh…what about that body?" Vera inquired with a cock of her head.

"WHO CARES! STRONN WILL BE A DUNGEON TOWN! Trade! Merchants! New weapons shops! AND GOLD!" The guildmaster shouted from the upper floor. Rushing down the steps, he ran up to Bisca, his smile was infectious as the older man shook her hand. "Please! Show me where it is! Right, my name is Jakob! Jakob Gorren! The guildmaster of this branch! Gabby! Get these heroes some food and drink!"

"Right away!"

"The body?" Bisca tried to ask as Jakob waved it off without concern.

"He was an asshole and tried to hurt one of my employees. Far as I'm concerned, he quit so no legal repercussions at all!" Guiding Bisca to a wall map, notably the country of Jassin, the guildmaster pointed with eagarness.

Bisca studied it, finding the borders of Jassin to be wedged between two larger coastal countries along the upper continent of Basil. Another northern land by the name of Vettra lined the northern coast, the country long and narrow.

"At least I know where we are now" Muttering to herself, that damn king had caused them to be transported nearly half a continent away. Even if she wanted to return, the journey would take weeks…perhaps months at this point.

"Please tell me where the dungeon is" Jakob pleaded, the tall slender man showing signs of underlying strength. He probably had done quests in the past but was now an administrator.

Bisca shrugged than narrowed her gaze on the city of Stronn. Pointing to a few miles West, she planted her finger on the wall map. "It should be around here. Not sure about the number of floors, but it was filled with Minotaur's, zombies, skeletons and other monsters. There is a safe zone about halfway down while a large…floating eyeball thing guarded the treasure room and return transport site. We did kill it, but for all I know something else will move in and secure that hall"

"Excellent! Jessi! Flora! Spread the word to the town that we have a dungeon!"

A gust of snow rushed past the nearby window, a howl of ice and frost that dampened the man's joy. Looking out, the sudden winter storm had come out of nowhere as snow and ice blew harshly. "Maybe wait until tomorrow?" Watching as a few civilians rushed home, the panic of Lanis's Blessing was already fading as the howls of wind picked up.

Frowning, Bisca grabbed the man by the shoulder, wrenching his attention away from the gathering storm outside. "Listen! That place is rife with hostiles, collapsed hallways, and things that will tear apart those unprepared! Your clearly excited for the possible wealth, but you better make sure anybody entering those ruins knows they're about to be fucked over, get me!?" jabbing her finger into his chest, Jakob slowly nodded after the verbal down-dressing.

"I'll make sure of that. I know how to do my job"

Bisca ignored him and promptly turned away with a sneer, the hero walking over to join her party at a table in the corner.

"I really wish we could have bathed and cleaned up before eating…" Vera lightly complained, the ichor of the eyeball slewing downward over her armor. Sighing as she ate a hefty sandwich, a few adventures were crowded nearby with muttered whispers.

"Food first, then a bath and rest. We could all use a day or two" Bisca stated, the gun-mage taking a seat at the table.

"That would be very agreeable, Miss Bisca. Perhaps we can plan our next course of action tomorrow?"

"Fine" Taking a swig of beer, the women ate peacefully. Well, as peaceful as one can with constant barrages of questions from very eager and excitable adventurers eager for wealth and treasure.

Two days later…

Bisca sat at the small table in the inn's room, the third floor accommodations paid out for another day. Not that it was that taxing on the party's current finances.

The nearby window showed a winter landscape, the roofs of homes and businesses covered by a blanket of white as belching smoke from chimneys billowed a light ash into the air.

A few clamors of shouts from stall merchants selling fish from the nearby river rose, an addition that had replaced the madness of the Lanis Blessing, a name for the day in question that was ripping through the region as fast as word could travel.

But the news of the newly found dungeon filled with gold, jewels, rare relics and monsters seemingly spread faster as the small city of Stronn simmered with excitement. Already, a few adventurers had arrived in the small city of ten thousand, their desire for wealth and status driving them.

Something Bisca wanted no part of. She wanted a break from war, killing and just surviving. After all, it had been barely a week since that mad king had thrown them across the continent, and they could all use a few days to rest and decompress.

A fact that her team was already taking to heart.

They had disappeared by early morning, eager to trade, shop and simply enjoy a relatively peaceful town. Sure, Celeste wanted to plan their next move, but she also wanted to enjoy a day.

Hearing a few voices coming from the hallway and door beyond, she lightly gripped the Boltok nearby, preparing for some guards to try and arrest her for blatant murder in the guild hall.

But they passed, the crime still unreported and unpressed by the guild. "I really should've tried to control myself. But that asshole…" Bisca knew…she knew what type of man that bastard had been and the world was better off with him dead.

Frankly, she suspected she had gotten a pass with the news of the dungeon. Releasing her firearm slowly, Bisca picked up the cup of steaming tea and sipped, her gaze now falling upon the spread out map of Jassin and its expansive size compared to Bantill. That small country was a smudge compared to Jassin.

"Which means a lot more walking…" Sighing, Bisca traced her finger along a road leading West toward the country of Regavik. They had several coastal cities, mostly likely with shipping toward the Lanis continent. But calling Regavik a country was a stretch. "More like a dozen clans all fighting with each other. We're almost guaranteed to fight bandits and monsters on the way or stumble into a minor clan war. Heading North isn't much better. Vettra is basically nomads, barbarians and tribes. The only unifying force they have is a mistrust of outsiders" Casting her gaze to the East and the country of Brassil, Bisca knew it was the best route. But it really wasn't that much safer. Huge forests, untamed lands and monsters flooded the land route…and winter would make it that much harder to reach the coast and their ports. The fact that it was nearly three hundred miles to the border itself would mean several weeks of travel, and Bisca doubted there was any shortcut.

"Damn. Guess we'll be going East" Taking another sip of tea, her face formed into a scowl. "Better make sure we prepare. I do not want to listen to Vera complain the whole way" Standing up, Bisca looked over at her armor and weapons, the kit now cleaned and polished. At least, to the best of her abilities.

"Well. Better find the fat titted elf and the others" Sighing, Bisca started to armor up, the woman not trusting a simple locked door to protect her vitally important weapons and armor.

The last thing she would need is some asshole stealing her irreplaceable weapons and gear.

Finally armored up, Bisca retrieved her Lancer and sniper rifle, the weapons quickly attached to the back plate. Holstering her revolver with a final check, her gaze panned the room, scouring the groups belongings.

There wasn't much left of note, mainly clothing and undergarments. Any wealth or treasure was kept on person, a sensible idea for them all.

Finally leaving the room and locking the door, Bisca left the inn.

Cocking her hat as the sun burned down from the harshly cold sky, the woman breathed out a fog of mist among the flowing foot traffic that seemed to flow around her as shopkeepers shouted for attention.

"Fish! Fish! Get freshly caught fish!"

"Maps! Get maps to the Stronn Dungeon!"

"Need help leveling up? Buy my guide to build your strength and experience!"

Bisca scoffed at that last one, quickly turning away before somebody recognized her. Walking along the street, she headed toward the closest general store.

There were the three, picking over wares and supplies as other patrons idly shopped. Vera was trying on a heavy coat, the garment obviously built for cold weather.

"I dunno Dia…what if nobody can see my awesome curves?" Vera lightly asked, the dark elf spinning in front of a mirror. Hugging her chest, she tried to push out her bust, but the dark coat seemed to hide them as she pouted.

"Is that really important?" The black mage asked with mild confusion as her pointed cat ears twitched.

"No. You should dress for harsh, cold weather. Besides, the only men we're likely to see on the road will be bandits and rapists. Not the type you want to attract" Bisca added, her scowl glaring.

"Oh, you're no fun!" Spinning again, Vera sighed. "But your right. I really should think about practicality"

"Get some gloves and warm weather underwear as well"

Vera huffed, then nodded in agreement, her shopping continuing with Dia as the cat woman slowly swished her tail back and forth.

Leaving the two alone, Bisca approached Celeste, the holy knight reading a book near a small stand. With cheeks burning bright, the blonde only seemed to get more involved in the novel.

"Such…lewd actions for the heroine…with a man she just met…how scandalous" Blushing a harsher crimson, the knight continued to read.

"You could just buy it if you love smut that much"

"AHH!" Turning with surprise, Celeste tried to place the novel on the shelf, only to drop it at Bisca's feet.

Picking it up, the cover was decorated with a bikini clad blonde woman in suggestive armor, her blade shimmering while the title scrawled across the top in big, red letters.

"The Adventures of Celes Erotica…"

"It's not what you think, Miss Bisca! I was…I was just curious!"

Bisca cocked an eyebrow, watching the holy knight trying to explain while looking away with obvious embarrassment.

"She really is like Erza" Smiling lightly at the memory of her long lost friend, Bisca looked toward the shelf, finding seven more volumes of the series. Picking them all, Bisca strode toward the counter and clerk, her hands full of books.

"W…what are you doing!?"

"Buying you some smut for our journey"

The clerk looked over the items, the old man giving a knowing smirk. "That will be ten silver"

Holding up a hand, Bisca scoured the store shelves, finding most of their required supplies already waiting for purchase. "I'll also need camping kits, food, blankets, water containers and anything else for at least three weeks journey to the country of Brassil. Cold weather clothing as well"

Momentarily surprised, the man grew a very large smile. "Very good, miss!" Moving with the haste only a merchant could at the prospect of profit, the older man started to gather the needed goods.

"Miss Bisca…the hero purchasing such lewd novels…" Gulping as the supplies were piled onto the counter, Celeste merely stared at the books, her eyes nearly hypnotic.

"You do realize I've had sex before, right?"

"Impossible. Miss Bisca is a heroic paragon of justice…" Gulping with more tints of red adorning her cheeks, Celeste found herself picking up the first book, resuming her place.

"I literally killed a bandit in the guild hall two days ago. Hardly heroic"

"Uh-huh" Delving into the book, Celeste was fully engulfed with the perverse adventure.

The shopkeeper finally finished, lining the counter with dry rations of food, cooking supplies, blankets…everything needed for travel. "Alright miss, that will be ten gold coins for everything"

Retrieving the appropriate amount from a pouch, Bisca left the coins on the counter to a very pleased shopkeeper. "Hey Dia. Get over here and store this in that bag of yours"

"Sure thing!" skipping over with a light bounce of her chest and feline femininity, the black mage opened up her bag of holding and promptly started to place all the traveling gear inside.

"I could've bought all that" Vera groused, the dark elf pouting in her new coat.

"Yet, you were more concerned about showing off your massive tits to potential bandit's"

"NO, I WASN'T!" Shouting defiantly, Vera huffed while crossing her arms. "So mean…"

"Buy what you want. We leave tomorrow morning for the Brassil border" Pointing at all three women, Bisca shook her finger. "Don't go crazy tonight. I want an early start"

"No problem!" Dia grinned, the feline finished as Bisca gave an off handed wave. Leaving the store, her next destination was the guild hall.

The walk was brisk and cold, her own cheeks going ruddy red from the low temperatures.

Entering the adventure guild ten minutes later after a few twists and turns through the city, Bisca immediately approached the desk. Finding the same pink haired rabbit woman standing there, the clerk gave a smile.

"Miss Mulan. The guildmaster has already approved of your rank increase. We just need to confirm it. Unfortunately, with our severing from Kalm and the rest of the planet guild network, your rank and status will not be immediately updated until reconnection is established. Of course, with the newly established leveling system, we need an accurate reading of your skills anyway"

Bisca waved her hand dismissively. "I don't really care"

"Ah. Alright. Just place your hand on the magical tablet" Sliding over the device that glimmered with low power, Bisca took off her right glove and pressed her palm flat. A small pulse of light shimmered outward, her data being updated into the magical data stream that she had no notion on trying to understand.

Gabby studied the magical tablet, finding the information to her liking. After all, the registry was nearly fullproof from tampering. The hero was who she claimed to be according to guild files.

"There we go, Miss Bisca. You are now Rank A and confirmed at level fifty two. Your registered party is 'The Emerald Rangers' and your companions are all ranked class 'C" Smiling, Gabby pointed to the wall of quests. "Feel free to choose one if you want. Anything up to Class A is now acceptable" Still smiling, Gabby was a little awestruck by the accomplishments of the hero. "I must say, you're certainly living up to your title. Fought in wars, killed giant snakes and ice trolls. Fought Minotaurs, zombies and the undead. Stronn would be fortunate to have you and your party stick around"

"We're leaving tomorrow for the border. I must reach the holy city of Lanill. At least, that's what Celeste keeps telling me" Sighing in annoyance, Bisca really just wanted to return to Earthland, but she doubted a path home would present itself without taking down the demon king first.

"I see. Well, that is unfortunate, but I understand. If your party seeks employment or assistance, the border city of Jerranburgh also has a guild. You'll be able to properly resupply there. Safe travels, and thank you again!" Smiling beautifully, the rabbit woman gave a small bounce before turning her attention to some young looking men next in line.

"Yeah, we wanna hunt monsters in the dungeon!" Grinning, the men were in good spirits, young and eager for wealth and glory.

"And gold! We'll get so rich!" Laughing uproariously, the group of five males continued to joke and laugh, their mood sky high with morale.

"Damn fools will probably die"

Bisca didn't engage them in conversation. Simply walking past, she left the guild to return to the inn as another light snow began to fall.

November 4th 501 H.A. The road to Jerranburgh

Vera wrapped the cloak tighter around herself, the biting wind and blowing snow shrieking across the roadway and through the nearby trees of the forested landscape. Wearing her new coat, the cloak only added to the temperature as the material flapped lightly in the wind.

Glancing at the falling sun, its pale warmth did nothing to abate the cold as Vera kept in line behind her team. Boots crunched in the freshly fallen snow of the road, its rutted wheel tracks barely seen under the blanket of white. While it was a main road, it was still dirt for the majority of its length to the border. Only when they approached sizable towns or villages did the road improve…barely.

"We should really find an inn or something soon. I'd prefer not to be out here at night" Gasping as another harsh blow of wind chilled her cheeks, the dark elf knew even their teamleader was feeling the effects of the cold.

Bisca slowly nodded, the greenette agreeing. "Let's check the map" Scanning the road before them, it just seemed to stretch forever through the forest of pines, the trees seemingly hiding the possible threats. Crouching down next to a large tree as the group halted, Dia retrieved the parchment from her bag as the coming dusk cast blood red rays across the land. Spreading it across a nearby rock while gusts blew, the feline held it down as Bisca traced their route.

"We left the town of Gronnlin two days ago and that outpost this morning. I think we're about here" Pointing, Bisca traced her finger along the road line that split three miles ahead. "Looks like the village of Nibel is close. They're a little off the main road, but they should have lodging"

"I agree" Celeste pointed along the main route, her blonde hair billowing from beneath the wool cap protecting her ears. "Dorsmoth is thirty miles away. But according to the map, there are still a few small villages and hamlets. Even if we don't reach Dorsmoth tomorrow, we should the following day…assuming each of these little hamlets have an inn"

"They should. I mean, it is a main road and travelers are always coming and going" Vera added as she looked up, her gaze falling upon the silent forest with the sunlight ebbing to dusk.

Fortunately, nothing had happened…yet. But all knew that the area could be dangerous with monsters, wildlife, or the hostile bandit just waiting for them to make a mistake.

"We make for Nibel Village. I don't like how the snow is picking up. The last thing we need is to be lost in the middle of a storm" Standing, the gun mage narrowed her gaze along the road as the last rays fell, the snow turning a brief crimson before surrendering to darkness.

The snow swirled around the four, a gloom of inky blackness as more snow continued to fall. Dia felt the sudden spike in nervousness, the black mage holding up her staff to pulse some light into the embedded crystal.

"No. Don't advertise our location. Anything could be out there" Bisca warned, her gaze casting along both sides of the road as the tree's branches seemed to claw toward them in menace.

Clutching her staff, Dia Stormclaw nodded, her own cloak rusting in the night as her purple hair billowed. "Do you see something?" Huddling closer to Celeste, the knight scanned the trees with equal suspicion.

"No. But that doesn't mean there's nothing there"

"Fear not, Miss Bisca. I will protect you from the evils of this world" Blonde hair fluttering as her cloak whipped and flared, Celeste was a paragon of duty and righteousness.

"Thanks. I'd be helpless without you" Voice full of sarcasm, the gun mage resumed walking, her rifle cradled against her chest as her hat tried to fly free.

"Obviously" Puffing out her chest, Celeste was full of her normal pride as Vera and Dia snickered, both knowing that Bisca really needed no protection from physical threats.

Another hour of walking at the full weight of night fall, the two moons starting to rise as their luminous light poured down upon Enterra and the winter landscape.

That's when the fork in the road appeared, the track splitting to head South East. A wooden sign sat at the junction, the wood half covered in snow and ice. Boots crunching, Bisca stared up, her face solemn and cold with exposure.

"Nibel Village is close. We'll find lodging there"

"Nibel Village…" Dia slowly read, her gaze falling on the pointed sign. Not finding or sensing anything wrong, the four started to head South East, figuring the prospect of a warm bed enticing them faster along the snow covered road.

A few glows of light appeared through the forest of trees half an hour later, the first sign of civilization in nearly a full day.

The last place had barely been an outpost. Merely an inn, a tavern, a supply store and a squad of soldiers that kept the peace in the immediate area. They had left that place this morning, and had not seen a single soul since.

"Finally! I could use a hot bath!" Vera cried with joy as the first buildings loomed, the homes sturdy as a few magical lanterns burned at the village's edge. Rushing, Vera suddenly came to a halt, the dark elf nearly slipping as she froze in her tracks at the edge of Nibel.

"No…" Eyes brimming, her gaze swept the carnage as her party quickly joined her.

Bodies lay in the street, many hacked to pieces as frozen blood dotted the ground in hellish splatters. Men and the elderly lay in twisted heaps, many sporting stab wounds or missing limbs. A few had been bisected in half, their entrails snaking outward as several homes showed signs of fire.

"What caused this?" Dia gulped, her gaze falling on a boy no older than thirteen, his left leg detached by several feet. The head was half crushed, his blonde hair caked by gore as he stared lifelessly.

Bisca walked forward, her gaze narrowed as she stopped before the boy. Crouching, she gently touched some of the blood nearby. "The blood's not frozen yet. Whatever happened here…" she trailed off, the woman noticing smaller footprints in the snow. Standing up she moved further into the village, following the tracks.

"Bisca?"

"Quiet" The hero hushed harshly, her tone barely audible as the village road turned further south, the homes getting more crowded. Pausing at the corner of one abode at the turn, she waited as her team came up behind her, each ready for combat.

Bisca moved from cover, her rifle raised as a sudden gust of snow and wind blew. Ignoring the sting of ice against her cheeks, she advanced toward the village square, finding the worst of the carnage and death. Pitchforks and axes lay near fallen men and villagers, along with common swords poking out of the mangled bodies of the attackers. Several small fires burned, the ash and stink of copper mixing with the loosened bowels of man…and monster.

Mixed in their own individual deaths, the corpses lay frozen with limbs stretching upward in final gasps of life…or severed with cruelty.

Marching swiftly forward to one of the fallen beasts, Bisca crouched as her hatred grew.

It was a goblin. Small, green…and nearly cut in half as its intestines covered the nearby ground. Already, snow was collecting in its sunken eyes and bloated tongue, the carcass unmoving as more lay in other positions of death. Panning her stare, two of the vile beasts lay face down, their backs obviously slashed by steel.

"Goblins…that explains why there are no young women among the dead" Celeste nearly growled, the knight gripping her holy axe.

"Yeah…and based on how recent this attack was, we're talking hours…maybe half a day"

"I see drag marks and more footprints heading further South and West" Dia Stormclaw pointed out, the black mage indicating with her staff as several tracks ran between the buildings to the nearby forest and the distant hills.

"Which means some of the women might still be alive" Standing tall, Bisca started to march toward the village edge, her party swiftly joining as their task became clear.

If there was one thing any female adventurer loathed, it was goblins. The vile, disgusting little beasts raped…impregnated and brutalized women to propagate, and now some were nearby, no doubt tormenting the innocent.

Each of them had no illusions…each of them would slaughter the monsters with no mercy as they followed the tracks into the darkness under the twin moons light.

---

Dawn was starting to peek over the rim of the world when the four women came upon the cave, the snow laden tracks almost gone thanks to the fresh snow. Fortunately, the goblins hadn't done much to cover their march as the prisoners were dragged, leaving a path to follow.

Huddling near the entrance of the cave set into a low series of hills, Bisca checked her rifle once more. "It's dawn. The goblins should be exhausted now and getting ready to sleep. Remember, they're drawn to the scent of women and will capture you as a breeding mule in an instant. Kill them all and show no mercy. Dia, you stay in the center and provide magic. Celeste, bring up the rear. Vera…nothing fancy. It could be narrow in there and swinging both swords around could get you killed"

"Right. Uh…how do you know so much about goblins?" the dark elf asked, the woman deciding on her fire blade.

"I make it a point to study the weakness and habits of all monsters I might encounter. Each adventure guild has the information readily available, something you should consider" Bisca lectured with a firm tone. Moving into the cavern entrance a moment later, she kept her rifle pointed level and ready as the walls dripped with condensation while rapidly narrowing to barely three feet wide.

Walking slowly and silently, Bisca moved past the bottleneck as the cave suddenly widened, giving the party more room to maneuver.

Vera looked up at the low ceiling, the height nearly close enough to brush her fingertips, but reasserted her attention to the task at hand.

The cave turned sharply right after a hundred feet, the corner illuminated by a wall torch as Bisca slowed, then stopped while going into a crouch.

Gutterlike, unintelligible words came from beyond the corner, along with the scraping of feet.

Two goblins appeared, the three foot tall green creatures momentarily shocked by the presence of females in their den.

"Die" Bisca uttered in hatred, her eyes nearly burning like coals. Kicking the closest child sized beast in the stomach, the goblin gasped in pain as it fell on its back, the club clattering nearby. Immediately stomping its head in with a heavy boot, the bone crunching as Celeste rushed forward, her battle axe giving a holy glow in the presence of evil.

Swinging swiftly, the holy knight cleaved the second goblin in half, the death nearly silent as the separated body fell near the crushed head of the first.

A surprised shout came from beyond the turn, the voice a gnarl of hate.

"Fe…females! Grahhh!"

"Shit!" Bisca uttered as she rounded the corner, her curse drowned out by the tiny beast yelling once more as it started to turn and flee. "Female in den! Fem-!"

"Lightning bolt!" Shouting the spell, an arc of electricity flowed and snapped before slamming into the fleeing goblin's back, charring the flesh. Screaming in agony as its skin popped and sizzled, Celeste finished the monster off.

Floating numbers of experience points rose from the bodies, not that the women cared at the time.

"Think they heard that?" Vera asked, the dark elf already knowing the answer as goblin cries came from the darkness beyond.

"Oh yeah. Get ready" Rushing toward the next turn of the cave that slanted left and downward fifty feet ahead near an outcropping of rock, the gun mage took a knee as the cries grew louder. "Celeste! Make sure to watch our rear! Goblins are known to dig!" Snarling out the words, the first bobbing shadows came from the depths of the deeper cave. Joined by Dia Stormclaw, the feline mage clutched her staff and began to pour magic into the crystal as small bolts began to dance.

Twenty goblins appeared, the snarling little rapists carrying clubs and deadly knives still caked with blood.

"FEMALES! CAPTURE!" The leader shrieked, its pointed nose and beady eyes already filling with desire. That only excited the others as they began to run forward up the low slope toward the women.

"KILL THEM!" Firing her rifle, the gunshot was an echoing boom in the narrow cave, an assault on the senses. Boring through the first one's head, the brain splattered as Bisca fired into the horde, the flashes of staccato of noise and light as more goblins screamed and died from the advanced weapon.

"Lightning Arc!" Pointing her staff as electricity filled the air, Dia unleashed the spell. Lightning surged, washing over the dying beasts as Bisca's rifle fire ripped into their bodies like a knife through paper.

Harsh screams and howls of torment rose from the wounded, the goblins clutching gunshot wounds or simply howling from electricity burns.

"Make sure none live" Rapidly reloading, Bisca moved from cover, more floating experience points flowing to the women. Approaching a goblin trying to stand on ruined legs, Bisca simply placed her heavy boot on its head, applying pressure before a sickening crunch echoed.

"Filthy things" Vera spat, the elf skewering another through the stomach as it gave a gurgled scream. Pulling the burning blade free, she killed another that had been shot, ending its pathetic life while her experience rose.

"Grahh!" A goblin shrieked, the monster pinned under Bisca's boot. Revving up her lancer, the gun mage simply stabbed the creature in the back, the chewing teeth turning the inside to slop and spewing gore.

Pulling her weapon free, Bisca stepped over the corpses, the stink of their loosened bowels filling the cave with stenches of shit.

"Come on. I'm sure there are more" Flicking on her rifle's flashlight, she leveled the weapon and advanced deeper into the goblin den with the others keeping in close support.

Turning left once more, then forking into two paths after another two hundred feet, Bisca paused, the soldier pouring light into both passages.

Each was insidious and dark, with only the sound of breathing and dripping water as sound.

"Do we split up?" Vera asked, the elf trying to peer into the darkness as Bisca stayed silent, the flashlight panning left to right.

"No. That's what they want. We take the right path"

The women did just that, the cave narrowing to the point the females could only walk single file. At some points, the walls actually brushed their cloaks and arms, scrapping with narrowness as slight tremors began to grow more pronounced from the cavern walls of dirt and stone.

All the tremors did was remind Bisca of the war against the locust, her anger and hate instantly rising among the increasing trembles and tremors.

Suddenly widening, the narrow cave passage opened up into a tiny chamber leading toward another path directly ahead, the darkness beyond hiding several horrors. The floor was littered with picked bones of several forest animals…and a few gnomes judging by the tattered garments. Meat still clung to the gnawed bones and limbs of several, the flesh crawling with maggots.

"Oh god…the smell" Vera coughed, her eyes watering at the stench and horror. Gulping as she tried not to gaze upon a ripped apart gnome along the wall, Vera clutched her fire sword tighter…then decided on using her ice blade as well. Both felt secure in her hands, their steel glinting red and blue just as the tremors became much worse.

The cavern floor ahead of Bisca burst like a pustule as goblins poured forth, their hungry eyes and noses twitching at the sight of four females.

"Breed! Breed new females!"

All Bisca saw and heard was war, blood and death. Grubs emerging from the ground to slaughter her world. They brandished weapons, the three foot tall creatures completely inhuman as they snarled with glee.

"Monsters…" Whispering the lone word, Bisca only saw the charging abominations and a sea of blood in her mind. "LOCUST!" Screaming out her hate, the gun mage unleashed a chattering burst of bullets into the front goblins, killing four in as many seconds as her rage took over.

"More behind us!" Celeste shouted, the holy knight warned as a dozen little beasts burst from the cave wall fifteen feet away. Raising her holy axe, the blade barely cleared the ceiling, but it was enough for her to bring it down on the first goblin who had charged into range. "DIE UNHOLY CREATURE!"

Cleaving the green skinned abomination in half from skull to groin, Celeste ignored the splatter of blood that flew against her face as she raised her axe again. "BY THE LIGHT OF LANIS, YOU WILL NOT DEFILE MISS BISCA!" Swinging hard once more, the blonde knight cleaved the next goblin in line, the sharpened axe cutting through muscle and bone with ease.

"Celeste! Left shoulder!" Shouting out her intent in one motion, Dia rested her magical staff upon her comrade from behind, aiming at the ambushing horde snarling and rushing forward.

"SCORTCH FLAME!"

Fire rushed out in a blaze of heat, washing over the goblins like liquid hell. Their skin and flesh lit aflame along with their eyes, the beady irises almost instantly burned from the skulls as their shrieks filled the cave.

"Excellent work, Dia! Now to smite this evil from the world!" Rushing forward, Celeste kicked the closest goblin, the enflamed creature trying to escape the narrow passage as she quickly dispatched it with gruesome efficiency. Grinning, the holy knight slaughtered the beasts as they scrambled and screamed, the flesh literally falling form their bones from the magical attack as gunshots and cries erupted behind them.

"LOCUST!" Roaring in rage, Bisca brought her screaming chainsaw down on the closest goblin, her rage flooding her vision as another beast tried to stab her with a rusting knife. Simply lifting up the tiny creature still dangling from the rifle as it churned and ripped, Bisca shot the second charging monster in the face.

"Feeemale!" A goblin rushed forward with a club, the short limbs bulging with muscle and desire for women.

Vera manage to move past Bisca, skewering the monster through the throat, the heated blade glowing as it cut through flesh like melted butter.

A half magazine of rounds ripped through the tiny bodies and green skin, the limbs shattering as Bisca fired. "Monsters…MONSTERS!" Picking up a defenseless goblin crippled by gunfire, the greenette slammed its face into the cave wall, the crunch of bone ending its life as her rage filled eyes searched for more enemies to kill.

"F..Flee! Run run!" A goblin cried out as it turned with two others, the monsters trying to escape the mad woman that had slaughtered nearly a dozen in a span of seconds. Running on short legs, the child sized beasts were far too slow.

"Where…do you think your going….?" Leveling her rifle as her harsh words haunted the goblin den, Bisca shot the fleeing trio in the back, the rounds killing one instantly as the bodies fell. Slowly marching forward, the last two tried to crawl, one even crying.

"No no! No hurt goblin!"

Bisca stomped hard in the middle of its back, breaking the spine before moving to the last one. Pinning it down with her weight, she pulled her combat knife and placed it against the tiny creatures throat.

The lone word dripped with hatred as Bisca's eyes burned with rage.

"Suffer…"

Sawing back and forth, the goblin cried as blood flowed from its neck, the sinew snapping and severing. Finally with enough leeway, Bisca ripped the head clean off and stood as crimson dripped down.

More goblins brayed and shrieked from further ahead, the shadows jumping as bobbing torch fire came toward them all.

"Locust…"

Four goblins and a hob-goblin came around the corner, two of them carrying crossbows as the others wielded short swords.

"Capture! Rape! Rape!" The hob-goblin pointed, its voice a gnarl of gravel and monstrosity that only fed Bisca's battle rage. It's face was a pockmark of warts and ugliness, the long nose hiding the beady eyes as it waved a club. Wearing light armor and standing at four feet, the leader tried to give commands.

"DDIIIIIEEE!" Running forward as she fired, it panicked the archers, the bolts going wide.

"Bisca! Calm down dammit!" Vera shouted while running forward.

"EAT SHIT AND DIE, GRUB!" Revving up her lancer, Bisca blocked the swinging club of the hob as the teeth screamed and cut through the wood….then the shoulder of the larger goblin. Crimson spewed and sprayed with bone and meat, coating Bisca's chin and neck in warmth.

"Heh!?"

"Taste my ice-steel!" Swinging hard, Vera cut down two goblins just as the final flecks of gore stopped churning.

"Filth…" Pulling her Boltok in a sudden movement, Bisca shot the last two dead, the woman ignoring the floating numbers of experience as she marched forward into the darkness.

"Bisca! Calm down!" Vera called out, only to be ignored by her party leader and friend who marched further into the tunnel of gloom.

"She's in battle rage! The only thing we can do is help her kill the evil forces of this place! With me, comrades!" Celeste shouted as she ran by, the holy knight not content to let her mission wander off.

Vera and Dia ran too, none wanting to be separated in this place.

Several more rifle shots rang out and echoed from Bisca, the woman killing with brutal efficiency as they advanced.

"Hyya! Begone, abomination!" Celeste shouted while cleaving another goblin, the holy knight keeping up with Bisca as she shot, advanced, and executed the snarling beasts that seemed to dwindle in number by the second.

Executing another with a ripping roar of her chainsaw bayonet, the gore spattered woman found herself standing before a wooden gate dug into the end of the cave as two goblin guards ran forward with pointed spears.

"Acid arrow!" Casting her spell from her staff, Dia killed one, melting the vile thing into a puddle of flesh and bone.

Suddenly, a burst of light came from Dia Stormclaw, her body engulfed in a glow as letters floated above her head.

Level Nineteen Achieved!

Hit point and mana increase!

Rushing through the floating words, Dia grasped her staff to help, but the battle was nearly done. "I can check my status later" Increasing her magic, she aimed to fire off another spell, but quickly dissipated the concentration as her team leader engaged the remaining monster.

The last goblin screamed, the lone beast having the misfortune of facing Bisca. Parrying the spear thrust with ease, she kicked the creature in the knee, snapping the limb with a crack. Crying out, it fell…only to have Bisca step on its chest and grasp its arm. Pulling with all her might, the sinew snapped and tore, finally ripping free in a fresh orgy of flying gore.

Finally breathing deeply, Bisca finally tasted the goblin blood on her lips…the warmth on her cheeks and chin.

"Bisca. Are you alright?" Vera asked, the dark elf always worried when her friend became like this.

"Yeah" Wiping it away with a gloved hand, she approached the door and the simple lock.

"Begone, door of evil!" Swinging her holy axe, Celeste bypassed the lock completely, the wood breaking and splintering in a single blow. Picking away shards of boards and lumber, the holy knight stepped in, the others quickly following.

Stenches of sexual violence, fear, hostility and desperation filled the air…almost suffocating as the four fully entered the prisoner chamber.

Nearly two dozen women and younger girls were gathered, most curled up and crying. Nearly all were naked, the evidence of what the goblins did more than apparent with many.

"D…Did you kill them?" An auburn woman asked, her breasts and nether region on full display to all as bruises and cuts covered her skin.

"Yes. But I'll make sure this cave is sterilized of the vermin just to be sure" Her face showing the barest minimum of emotion, Bisca stared at each female, finding some as young as thirteen. Clenching her fist, it shook with more hate at the evils committed here.

"What about Nibel? Did they send you?" Another woman inquired, her blonde locks falling past very large breasts. A cut was on her side, the wound shallow and scabbing, but if left unchecked, could become infected.

Dia shook her head, the feline's ears drooping with remorse. "I'm sorry…the goblins killed them all. We…we were just looking for an inn when we found the massacre"

Many of the women cried, the loss of husbands, sons, and family a fresh wound of torment.

Bisca gave them a moment, the goblin gore still sluicing down her armor and exposed skin, making her look like the devil herself. "We will be traveling to Dorsmoth. If you wish to leave with us, you may. However, there is nothing in Nibel for you except death and loss. Gather what clothing and items you have"

"Miss Bisca, perhaps a kinder tone would be better?" Celeste suggested, the holy knight moving forward to try and assist the victims.

Still enraged by what happened here, Bisca turned away, her unslung rifle reloaded as she guarded the doorway from any possible remaining enemies.

Standing like a monolith of war, Bisca remained silent as the Emerald Rangers helped gather clothes, shoes and cloaks for the women as many wept for their shattered lives.

An hour later after properly searching the den, the party found no more living goblins, their extermination complete. Leaving with the victims, the march toward the main road was a walk of sorrow and sadness.

Dorsmoth November 9th, 501 H.A.

Sleet fell on the walled city of fifteen thousand, coating the streets and buildings in ice, adding to the misery of the day as most tried to stay inside. Bisected by a small river that churned with chilled waters, the droplets fell harder as citizens scrambled for their homes.

Several neighborhoods were practically slums, populated by the poor and criminal element of the community. Many held cheap brothels, the working women often visited by mercenaries, adventures and others for a price.

At least the church was decently warm and located near the city center, the sisters having swooped in and taken rapid control of the twenty three women brutalized by the goblins. Already taking them to some warm baths, food and warm beds, Bisca knew it wasn't ideal, but better than nothing.

All had lost their families, with the exception of a mother and her two teenage daughters.

They had been defiled in front of each other. A nightmare that Bisca was positive none would forget.

But they would be safe here. Dorsmoth was simply too big for any goblin nest to attack and now that the massacre of Nibel was known, fresh quests would be coming forth to search the area for more…and to hunt them down.

Standing near the double doors of the church, she watched Celeste talking with the head priest by the main alter, the knight flanked by Dia and Vera who were each receiving thanks for their good deed.

Bisca left, steeping into the falling sleet and freezing temperatures.

She wasn't a believer. All she did was kill monsters and sometimes save a few lives.

Walking along the cobblestone street, she only saw a few pedestrians and city guards, none worth interacting with. The alleys were narrow between the buildings, some barely wide enough for a lone man.

Bisca felt a pair of eyes watching her, the gun mage instantly turning her gaze to a scrawny wolfman trying to hide between a few buildings among the falling sleet and chill.

He did nothing, instead shrinking away to find someone less heavily armed and dangerous.

Passing a few taverns, and mid wealth brothels, Bisca could hear the sultry sounds coming from one as the mid-day storm probably helped business, not that she cared.

Finding herself standing before the adventure guild after a solid ten minutes of walking, she entered, the sleet slicking off her armor and hat as the warmth of the hall roared from a nearby fireplace.

A party stood near the reception desk, the leader fully encased in armor as he held up a couple of quests. He was joined by a young priestess, a dwarf, a lithe elf, and what appeared to be a lizard shaman who greedily ate some cheese with obvious joy and mirth.

I'll take all the Goblin Extermination quests"

"Once again with killing goblins, Orcblog?" The elf teased, her female frame slender and laden down with a bow and quiver.

Slowly moving his helmeted head, he turned toward the elf in momentary distraction. "Yes"

Bisca let the party be, walking swiftly past other parties and adventurers to the dining hall.

It was crowded, a dozen different races ranging from half-orcs and lizardmen to dwarves and humans. Taking a seat at a table in the corner that was basking in the warmth of fire, Bisca ordered a beer and meal, her hunger starting to grow.

The frothing mug came quickly, the amber liquid a pleasant sight as she slowly sipped, savoring the beverage in the warmth of the guild.

"Yeah, we're heading toward the new dungeon. I heard there's a treasure room with piles of gold so high you could drown in it" A bald man shared with a few elf women, his smile full of greed and lust. Several tattoos covered his exposed arms and neck, trailing like snakes as his compatriots laughed and bragged.

"Good luck, lad. I heard there could be at least thirty floors. All filled with monsters that could rip you in half" A heavily bearded dwarf added from a nearby table, his red beard styled with knots.

The bald man grinned, suddenly standing and pulling his blade in a bragging manner. "Fear not! I am level fifteen and am skilled with the sword! The dungeon of Stronn will be conquered by myself and my party of adventurer's!"

One of the female elves spoke up, her raven dark hair spilling past slender shoulders and a bow slung across her back. "What about the hero, Bisca? She already defeated the dungeon with a party of women from what I hear"

The smug man continued to smile, pointing his shimmering blade toward the ceiling in a boast. "Obviously she had an easy path. Why, I bet she simply ran from the worst foes while her team did the work" Laughing uproariously, several men and women were uncomfortable.

After all, the rumors around that heroic woman swirled like madness.

"I don't know, Trent. I heard she slayed a whole tribe of Ice trolls by herself and was eaten by a Grand Python…and survived. And you know that war down south? I think she fought in that"

"Mere rumor! In fact, I bet if she saw me, Bisca would ask to join my party! Maybe even be my girlfriend!"

Bisca scoffed loudly, enough to draw the attention of Trent and several nearby.

Crossing his arms, Trent stared at Bisca. "Something funny, woman?"

"Yeah. You" Sipping her beer, a waitress brought the meal, the steaming potatoes and meat looking delicious. Letting the plate cool, Bisca eased back in her chair, the corner the perfect place to watch the fool.

"HA! You obviously don't know who I am! I am Trent, a great swordsman! I have slain several dire wolves and goblins, I even managed to kill a hob-goblin once!" Picking up his own beer, the male drank greedily before raising his glass. "You should feel honored!" Tossing his head backward, the man unleashed a guffaw of humor, his party rapidly joining in.

"And who would you be? To show such disrespect?" Trent continued after his laughter ebbed.

"Well. I'm Bisca Mulan. And let me tell you, Trent, that you are a fucking weakling. You think you can clear a whole dungeon filled with zombies, Minotaurs, and flesh eating Kobold's? How about skeletons that only want to carve your flesh? Or the fact that place was a labyrinth of dead ends and monster ambushes? Hell, you'd probably get your ass eaten by a mimic" Scoffing with a wave of her hand, Bisca went on. "Oh, and the treasure room? Guarded by a…fuck, I dunno? A massive floating eyeball that shoots lightning. It's dead after exploding, but fuck, who knows what else has moved in by now. Could be another eye, could be something worse" Taking another gulp of beer, Bisca glared at the man. "Oh, and by the way, I activated the magic trigger that caused the whole world wide leveling thing. A blessing from the Goddess Lanis for one of her heroes. So your little level fifteen is really nothing compared to my level fifty two…which is already pissing me off" Suddenly standing, the gun mage pointed her finger, her face twisting in anger and a snarl. "Oh, and if you think I'd date a pathetic fool like you or join your party, think again, asshole!" Sitting back down, Bisca started to eat her meal, savoring the slab of meat with joy as Trent fumed while several around him laughed.

"You…YOU BITCH!" Rushing forward, he aimed to land a fist when Bisca activated her magic, forming a magical revolver in her hand that pulsed with green energy. Aiming directly at his head, the weapon pulsed as the barrel began to glow.

"Attack me…and I'll splatter your brains over this table. Which would be a shame since I just ordered this meal"

The man froze, his senses picking up the magical strength coming from the suddenly formed weapon. Staring, he locked eyes with the hero and gulped, her gaze like looking into the depths of hell.

"Hey guys…uh..help me out?" His tone pleaded to his drinking buddies, but none really made a move to assist.

Slowly backing up, Trent found himself bumping against a person. Turning, he saw a blonde swordswoman, her glare boring deep into his soul.

"Did you just threaten Miss Bisca? Because as a holy knight, it is my duty to protect the hero from harm" Clasping the handle of her axe slung across her back, Celeste Brightwood began to pull it free as the rest of the party flanked her, each with serious looks.

"Ahh…I…I just…" Once again gulping, he looked to his party, but none stood or even drew a blade. Stumbling over an empty chair, he fell backward on his ass, Trent still showing signs of fear.

"Shit…YOU'LL PAY FOR THIS YOU BITCH!" Cursing with a panicked shout, Trent fled the hall in anger and panic while several women snickered at his fear and verbal thrashing.

Celeste glared at the open door, the storm flowing in before a nearby man pulled it closed. Taking a seat at Bisca's table with the others, Celeste bore no further thought of the weakling that insulted the hero. Beginning her report, she knew the party was well informed, but thought in necessary. "The victims of the Goblin attack will be taken in by the church. They'll be provided care, and in time, a place to help if they desire. I also talked with one of the healers. While terrible, most will make a recovery…in time"

"That's good" Cutting off a piece of meat, Bisca ate as her friends ordered their own meals and drinks.

"I did a tally. I think in total we killed about sixty goblins and a Hob" Vera included as she eyed the trio of female elves, the nearby women whispering about their group.

"Unfortunately, the guild won't offer much of a reward since there wasn't an official quest. But we're still financially stable" Dia informed, the feline shrugging while her purple hair fell past her shoulders.

"We should be. We did secure enough treasure for awhile" Taking another bite of her meal, Bisca looked up as the trio of elven women approached the table.

"Mind if we join you? We plan on leaving for Stronn tomorrow and you have first hand knowledge of the dungeon there"

Giving a wave of assent, the three blonde elves sat. Two appeared to be swordwomen, the third a scout or archer based on visible equipment. Glancing at Vera, the two species of light and dark seemingly glared at each other for a moment…especially Vera's ample bosom compared to their own.

"What do you want to know?" Bisca finally asked after the elves glared daggers at each other with silent insults.

"Just any advice…or shortcuts?" the leader asked, the blonde trying to smile.

"Yeah. Stay away from the slimes! They melt clothes!" Vera shouted, her fist pounding the table with anger. "Damn things! Melted my clothes and I had to walk around in basically nothing!"

"WAIT! SERIOUSLY!?" an elf shouted, her mind crawling with the horror of such a perverted creature.

Bisca shrugged. "Not like it actually tried to harm us. I think it just want to make women naked. Fortunately, there was a safe zone nearby" Pointing at the trio, Bisca's tone hardened. "If you do plan on going in there, my warnings of monsters you no doubt heard still hold true. Undead. Kobold's and Minotaurs. Mimics as treasure chests. There are probably more creatures we missed. I suggest getting a few more team-mates because you three will probably get killed in the deeper levels. Oh, and if you hear a trembling roar that shakes your bones, that means the floating eyeball is back"

"It was very revolting, but it only inhabited the treasure room" Celeste added, the blonde leaning forward with one arm draped over the table in a lean.

"What can you tell us about the treasure?" the second elf asked with obvious interest as more adventurers listened in, the crowd quite large at this point.

"More than you can carry. Piles of gold taller than myself, ancient relics and weapons" Pulling out a ruby gemstone, Dia held it for the elves to study as its sparkled like blood in the light. "Gemstones like this. Diamonds, Sapphires and gold encrusted crowns. The payoff is high, but the risk could claim your lives. I suggest you find a mage, you will need a magic caster" Smiling as she put the jewel back in a secure pouch, Dia continued with a soft tone. "That place is a labyrinth. Hallways and passages twist back upon themselves, some are collapsed and so dark you can't see your own hand"

"So, you can get lost, lass?" The red bearded dwarf asked, the short male standing nearby with a frothing mug as he listened in.

"Each floor only had one entrance and exit. Some were easy to find, others after fighting through hordes of monsters" Bisca shrugged. "In the end, it's your call. We survived, some of you will too. Others won't. Just up to how strong your luck is and how well you prepare"

"I see. Thank you" Bowing, the elves left to discuss plans for departure, along with several other men and women full of greed for treasure and wealth.

Wind howled past the nearby window, the glass spattering with frozen rain and sleet as the meals arrived.

"So Bisca? What should we do today? We don't really need to take any quests and the weather is pretty nasty" Vera asked, her silver white hair flowing as she cocked her head toward the window.

Leaning back, Bisca let out a small stretch and yawn, the brim of her hat blocking some of her face. "Probably taking it easy. Might just nap" Staring at the upper floor and several patrons, the greenette scowled. "Or maybe research. Reading up on lore and weaknesses of monsters will ensure our survival"

"That sounds boring! Can't we just drink instead!?"

Bisca gave another simple shrug. "Don't let me stop you. Not like the storm is letting up soon anyway" Looking outside, the sleet fell harder, nearly drowning out the inn across the road. Standing slowly, she headed toward the stairs and library above, deciding that reading up on local monsters and lore would only serve their purpose. Pausing at the double doors of the library, Bisca looked down at Vera and Dia, both women holding up mugs of beer.

"Who wants to hear about the time Bisca slay a Grand Python!"

"AYYYE!" Several men and women raised mugs as Vera drank, her laughter ripping through the guild as she began to retell the tale.

Entering the library, the noise of cheer and laughter faded, replaced by a low ebb of silence. There were a few mages inside, conducting research of their own at several tables along the left wall.

Walking forward, Bisca's boots made a light thud as she headed toward the section of monsters. Pulling a book off the shelf, it dealt with Bheur Hags and Frost Salamanders along with other notable creatures of the northern lands.

"Better than reading about goblins and orcs" Sitting down in a soft chair, Bisca opened up the first page, the lone image showing a weathered old woman in tattered clothes and blue skin.

"Known to have control of local weather, Bheur Hags can cause extreme frost while casting spells of ice. With rapid speed, they can dis—"

The library door opened, Celeste walking in. Rapidly spotting the summoned hero, she strode forward and sat in a nearby chair. Cocking her head to the side, the blonde read the title.

"Northern monsters and their elements?"

"It's winter time Celeste. We will probably encounter creatures that use ice and cold spells. Not everything we fight will be as easy as goblins" Waving a hand, she pointed toward the closest shelf of books. "Either read or join Vera and Dia in their drinking"

There was a subtle nod as the holy knight went and retrieved a book, the subject goblins and their tactics. Retaking her seat, the blonde began to read, enjoying the small amount of silence the library offered.

Hours passed, the waning light from the outside world dimming to darkness as magical lamps illuminated the stacks of books and silent mages.

Finally standing and stretching, Bisca yawned and stood while glancing at her team-mate. "I dunno about you, but I could eat something. Then…maybe try to get some sleep"

"Same. I believe I've read enough about goblins today. Vile things" Cursing their existence, the two women returned the books and left the library. Descending the steps, they found Vera standing on a table, the dark elf trying to dance as her intoxication made others cheer.

"Heeey…BISCA! I'm a da..a…ncer!" Twirling, she laughed and tried to pull off her top, only to have the leather armor block her attempts.

"TAKE IT OFF!" A man cheered, his cheeks a dull red as he raised a glass…then promptly slumped against a table.

Looking at the already passed out Dia by a few other beast women, the black mage had a weird smile on her face as the females around her drank and laughed, none caring in the least.

Rubbing her nose with annoyance, Bisca just shook her head. "Like dealing with Cana and Levy. Alright, pick up Dia. We'll get them to the inn and let them sleep it off"

"WHO WANTS TO SEE MY TITS!" Once again trying to unclothe herself, Vera smiled at the cheers.

"YEAH! SHOW US!"

"WOOO! DARK ELVES ARE SEXY!"

"Come on you drunk" Grabbing the elf, the female squealed as Bisca slung her over her shoulder.

"Wee…eee…." Arms falling low, Bisca carried the inebriated as Celeste did the same with the cat woman. Stepping outside, the sleet and snow still fell as the party began to cross the boulevard under the gloom of nightfall.

"I think…urk…blurg…"

Vera vomited, some of the bile splashing into Bisca's boots and across her leg greaves.

"Great" Growing more annoyed as they entered the inn. Approaching the front desk as Vera tried to laugh, Bisca quickly paid for a double room on the top floor, the clerk smirking as the elf flailed and cursed.

Marching up the stairs as her boots and socks squelched with elf vomit, Bisca nearly threw the drunk on the double bed when they entered.

"Biscwa…I'm sorwry…" Mumbling incoherently as the hero locked the door, she just shook her head, the last few days just exhausting.

"I'm taking a shower. Just make sure they don't barf on themselve's"

"Of course, Miss Bisca" Nodding her head in respect, Bisca just ignored it before marching to the bathroom.

The first thing she did was shrug off her vomit filled boots, the greenette reminding herself to make Vera's life hell later.

Removing the rest of her armor and clothes, she instantly felt the aches of the nearly thirty some mile march over the last few days, not to mention the killing of goblins, the cold, and escorting those poor victims.

"Fucking goblins…worse than locust in some regards…" Cursing the vile little beasts, she knew with her luck, that this wouldn't be the last time. At some point, her party would fight them again, along with more monsters.

Setting her Boltok on the nearby wash sink, the weapon remained loaded and ready. Stepping in, the hot water was a godsend as it quickly plastered her hair. Trailing down her back to her well toned buttocks, her green locks dangled as more water trickled and traced down her full breasts, slicking past their full shape. Cupping the large double d's, she massaged them lightly, longing for the man she loved before resuming her shower.

Thinking of the journey ahead, she leaned her head against the wall of tile, letting the warmth fall. "The journey to the coast will still take weeks, assuming everything goes well. Then securing a vessel to cross the ocean, then traversing the continent of Lanis. Rejoining the other heroes then fighting the demon king…such bullshit. Why did I have to be summoned? I already fought monsters…and engaged in war. I just wanted to have peace…"

Fifteen minutes later she ended the wonderful bath, her form dripping wet as she grabbed a towel to dry herself off. Retrieving her sidearm, she entered the main room, finding that Celeste had placed the two drunks on the same bed near the window.

"Mind if I take one?"

"Knock yourself out" Sitting on the bed's edge, she let the towel fall after a few minutes while the sound of falling water came from the open bathroom. Leaning forward, her breasts gave a light sway, but she didn't even notice as the sudden fatigue clawed and grasped her mind and body.

Setting her revolver on the nearby nightstand, Bisca figured sleep was in order. Laying down, she stared at the ceiling, her mind awash in blood, fire and monsters.

---

People screamed and ran, fleeing for their lives as the locust marched, the drones firing indiscriminately into the fleeing masses. Bodies fell, flooding the roadway with blood as the cries of the dying filled Bisca's ears.

Taking cover behind a block of rubble, she popped up and fired, her weapon chattering. "RUN! GET OUT OF HERE!" Screaming the words, she could only watch in horror as a mother and her two fleeing children were cut down a mere twenty feet away.

"Sssuffeer…." A drone scratched out, his voice like the devils nails as the carnage continued among the screams.

"GYA!" Sitting up suddenly, Bisca's body was a pool of sweat and fear, the memories of the war her world endured still present. Pressing a hand to her forehead, the woman breathed deeply, trying to get her breathing under control.

"Another nightmare…" Swinging herself out of bed, Bisca sat at the edge, her nude form illuminated by shafts of moonlight pouring through the nearby window. Her large breasts swung free, dangling like ripe melons as more sweat from the nightmare dripped down her skin. Running a hand through her emerald hair, Bisca just tried to forget the memories of atrocities that plagued her mind.

Looking over to Vera and Dia, both were snuggled against each other in blissful alcoholic slumber, none really showing any disturbance.

"Lucky bitches" Barely audible, she walked toward the window, her gaze falling upon the first rays of sunlight that began to peek over the horizon.

Despite the sleet and coating of ice, Dorsmoth felt like a dingy shithole…probably because she could see a few brothels down the road, their windows darkened until they opened once more.

In the past, Bisca would've burned such places of ill repute to the ground. But here? It was just another business.

Her stomach growled, the wave of hunger hitting like an hammer. Giving another weary sigh, Bisca started to prepare for an early day. After all, they wouldn't being staying in Dorsmoth for another night.

The Road to Jarrenburgh November 12th, 501 H.A.

Fire crackled in the fireplace, a smell of wood and cinders filling the old farmhouse as the heat flowed over the four women.

Wind howled outside, rattling the shutters of rotting wood as snow and ice seemed to scream from the sudden storm that befell the party.

"This sucks" Crossing her arms over her legs, Vera huddled near the fire as the women spread out sleeping mats and blankets across the dusty floor.

"It could be worse" Bisca commented, the soldier making sure the door was secure by pushing an old piece of furniture in front of it. Barely satisfied, it was better than nothing as the door had no actual lock.

"How?"

"We could still be outside. Finding this dwelling was a stroke of good luck"

The dark elf grumbled, hating how her friend was right in that regard.

"Still, I never knew storms could get this bad" Dia added, the feline quite content in warmth as Celeste lay nearby, reading a novel with hints of blushing to her cheeks.

"They can be, especially since we're hundreds of miles north of Bantill. I expect as winter progresses, the storms and cold will get worse"

"Great" Sarcasm dripped from Vera, but otherwise she stayed near the fireplace.

Retaking her place near her party, Bisca felt the warmth flow over her, the pleasant heat peeling away the chill that had befallen them all.

Three days of travel had been relatively uneventful, the road traffic minimal between the sparse villages and minor towns that dotted the landscape toward the country of Brassil. Sure it was quiet, but the fact nothing hostile attacked them was practically a vacation.

But barely two hours ago, just as they entered one of the sprawling forests, a daytime blizzard had fallen. At first, Bisca thought it was some elemental or a Bheur Hag, but she felt no magic, same with Dia. From all appearances, it was just a random winter storm.

Fortunately, they had spotted this lone cabin through the trees off the main road, and made it a temporary shelter. It was abandoned, most likely by at least a year or two judging by the state of the structure. But it had four walls and a roof, which made it better than dealing with the winds, snow and ice howling outside.

For now, it was their camp, and if need be, their place for the night.

Staring into the fireplace, Bisca simply watched the flames pop and crack, the firewood slowly charring as the storm howled beyond.

The flames only reminded her of war as her mind went back to those horrific memories…

Night had fallen, and with it, the end of the storm. Slowly easing himself behind a tree, Trent crouched as he held the sword in his hand. Studying the dilapidated farmhouse a hundred yards away, it was a sorry state of neglect among a forest of freshly fallen snow.

"Hey Trent. You sure about this? I mean, you're part of the adventure guild, right?" A man asked in a soft tone, the mugger and cutthroat normally used to attacking rich old ladies or merchants. Shivering softly under the heavy coat, he stayed crouched near some bare shrubs, the pine rich with winter and sap. Nearby, another twenty men waited in similar states, most sitting around level ten or so according to the new status screens every sentient being now owned across the planet.

"That bitch insulted me, made me a laughing stock of the guild" Sneering, his breath hitched out like ice, the molecules fading under the starlight and low light from the twin moons.

"Seriously? That's why we tracked them for the past few days?" the thug asked with rising anger, the man and his gang expecting a payday, not some petty revenge. Placing his hand on the hilt of his sword, his body language shifted.

"Don't take me for a fool. They have treasure. Gems and gold from the Stronn Dungeon. Also, ancient relic weapons. I know for a fact that the catwoman mage has a bag of holding. That alone would fetch nearly one hundred gold pieces. Then all of their weapons and armor…Bisca has unknown gear…and it will be mine to sell for profit" Smirking, Trent looked sideways at the thug. "Of course, they're all young women. Feel free to have fun with them"

A few vile chuckles rippled through the gang, passing from the lips of the humans, dark elves, and the two wolf-men.

Chuckling, the lead criminal smirked as he returned his gaze to the silent house that belched tendrils of smoke and ash from the chimney. "Gold, gems and women. Alright, that's more like it. But—" The tattooed man went silent as one of the windows of the home opened, the darkness hiding the features of whomever.

"Jak. Grennfall. Get your arrows ready. We'll scare them a bit while the rest of us move toward the main door"

The blonde elves nodded, the moonlight making their nearly porcelain skin glow with elegance. Smirking evilly, both males slunk forward, unslinging bow and arrow to begin the siege.

Bisca had to give the bandits credit. She hadn't heard them approach at all, a failing on her part. No, it was simply Dia opening a window and spotting a few subtle movements in the treeline surrounding this rundown home.

Peering through the scope of her longshot, Bisca had reversed an old chair, sitting on it while propping her rifle on the window sill. Ice formed from an exhale, the gust dissipating as she watched the two elves get into position.

"Dia. Once I drop those archers, send a few fireballs into the forest. That will illuminate the rest. Celeste and Vera, you protect the main door. Do not go outside to meet them in battle. Make them come to us"

"Got it, Bisca" Grasping the handles of her flame and ice swords, the steel each gave an elemental glow as she stood near the door with Celeste on the other side, her holy axe giving a glow in the presence of evil.

"They will pay for disturbing my leisure time of reading romance novels" Noticing the strange looks, Celeste felt the judgment for her new hobby. "And to make them pay for trying to harm Miss Bisca!"

"I didn't know you would take to smut so easily" teasing a bit, Bisca's gaze hadn't left the scope. "Ready Dia?"

Holding up her staff, the crystal focusing gem glowed with a soft warmth as the black mage gave a curt nod.

Bisca concentrated her sight through the scope, the enlarged image of the first archer's face large enough to touch.

"Your life is mine to take…" Whispering the words, her rifle spat fire and noise, the echoing gunshot bouncing off the walls as the bullet flew through the silent night air and tore through the first dark elf's head, splattering his brains over the freshly fallen snow. Working the bolt in practiced ease as the spent cartridge spun away, Bisca found the other elf was frozen, looking in shock at his companion laying dead in the snow.

That elf died too, the second bullet tearing away his throat in a spray of gristle and flesh.

"FIREBALL TRIO!" Roaring the words, Dia pointed her staff out the window, letting three of the roiling balls of heat and flame fly toward the nearby forest. A man screamed, the bandit caught in the flames as his location just happened to by a target.

"WHAT THE FUCK!?" Trent screamed out, watching the two men die in as many seconds. Gurgling chokes of blood came from the dying elf, the archer trying to grasp and crawl as fire illuminated the night.

"THEY KNOW WE'RE HERE! CHARGE THE HOUSE!" The lead thug roared, only to have his head explode by another cracking gunshot. Brain matter and sinew burst across Trent, the hostile adventurer frozen in place as the bandits surged forward, none knowing their leader was already dead in the snow.

"Here they come!" Bisca roared out as she switched to her lancer and moving toward the window. Firing a stream of rounds at a rushing figure in the gloom, the bandit screamed, pitching forward as he fell into the moonlight snow that seemed to dance with fire.

"Electric Bolt!" Shouting the words, Dia unleashed a surge of electricity into another figure that charged across the winter hellscape, the wolf-man suddenly screaming as his fur started to char and smoke. Falling to the frozen earth, his body occasionally jumped and popped with arcs of light, his last gasp unheard over more gunfire and spell blasts that ripped through the night.

Experience points floated above the dead, the numbers a soft glow before flowing into Bisca and Dia.

"Stupid fucking crap! Damn the fucking goddess!" Bisca sneered as the points flowed into her body, the whole thing still incredibly stupid. Firing a ten round burst at another bandit, the bullets nearly cut the foe in half fifty feet out, spilling entrails like slop. More experience points rose and flowed toward Bisca, entering the hero who ducked out of sight to reload.

"Electric bolt!" Shouting the same spell, the snapping energy flew outward, striking another man who screamed. Dropping his sword, the power ripped through his nervous system, the agony flaring as his body flailed from damage.

"Just ignore the dead ones! That just means more for us!" Havrin yelled, his unkempt hair and attire that practically screamed 'bandit' Rushing toward the front door with half the group, he made sure to avoid the constant spells and…whatever dark magic cut down his fellow bandits with such violence and ease. "Probably an ancient weapon. That's what Trent and Dirk believe anyway" Pressing himself against the front wall with the others, he studied the door and its lack of a latch or knob.

"I got this" Smirking, a large man with a war hammer strode forward, his massive frame bulging with muscle and meat. "Yaaarghh!" Swinging hard and heavy, his strength and skill blew the door inward, shattering the wood into flying splinters. "Here little girls…come to big daddy…" Twisting his gnarled face while his pudgy, ugly nose twitched, the six foot tall man stomped into the entranceway, his hammer ready and raised as moonlight reflected off his orange tinted leathers.

"Hyyaaa!" Swinging downward, the holy axe glowed, the ancient weapon detecting the evil intent of the men outside. Blocking with the shaft of his hammer, the towering bandit gave a cruel grin to the blonde as she tried to push forward.

"Oh yeah…Big daddy's gonna have fu—glurk…"

Vera had attacked from the flank, embedding her two blades right through the bandits exposed side. Burning and freezing, the wound was widened as the elf pulled her swords free, the blood arcing through the room.

"Dammit…you bitc-"

Celeste swung hard once more, decapitating the behemoth with an overhead swing as the axe carved through bone and flesh with ease, his head dropping to the floor.

"DAMN! THEY KILLED BIG KENNY!"

"You…Bastards!" Unleashing a yell of fury, Havrin charged in with more of his men, only to be met with steel and ferocity.

Vera twisted and jinked, the dark elf showing off her nimble footwork as she seemingly danced around two men, Slicing downward, she wounded a bandit, leaving a trial across his chest that seeped crimson.

"Elf bitch!" Rushing forward, a thug tried to skewer the female from behind, only for Vera to jump and flip toward the nearby wall. Running for a few steps, her flame sword stretched out and took part of the man's head, stinking up flesh as the skin burned. Landing softly, she then stabbed the first through the chest, his skin frosting around the wound.

"Dammit…why the hell did we take this job!?" Snarling, Havrin and the other six had pushed through the doorway, some rushing toward Bisca and Dia with only murder on their minds.

"Don't bother raping them! Just kill them!" A bandit screamed while he swung his sword toward the cat woman, his comrade rushing toward the greenette with similar intent to kill.

Dia turned to late, the bandit sword slicing across her clothes with ease. Flying backward against the wall, the black mage coughed from the blow, her stomach no doubt bruised beyond belief. Wheezing, she gathered magic, her lungs labored as a spark bounced around the tip. Fortunately, her mithril chainmail had done its job, leaving her unscathed.

"You really shouldn't have done that….STORMBOLT!"

The bandit didn't have time to scream, his eye's only seeing horror as the massive surge of magical electricity slammed into his face. Eyes exploding a half second later, the thug howled as his skin charred to a horrid black of ruin.

Bisca was less dramatic, simply shooting her attacker dead before he even reached her.

"Shit! SHIT! SHIT! SHIT!" Havrin looked around, most of his gang now dead or so wounded that death would be a mercy. The stench of blood, charred flesh and loosened bowels filled the old home, the bodies of nine men scattered about in various states of death and dying gasps.

"Please…mercy…" Benny pleaded, the younger bandit stretching out a hand toward the holy knight. With his chest sliced open and some of his entrails flayed about, his agony was paramount.

"The only mercy you receive is divine punishment! Hyaa!" Bringing her axe down, she cleaved off Benny's head as more droplets of gore flew.

Havrin felt chilled steel press against his throat, the ice blade actually frosting over as he let his sword drop. Gulping, he looked over as the green haired woman stepped before him, her strange weapon responsible for killing half his gang alone.

"D…don't kill me" Whispering, the plea was pathetic. How many had he killed in a reversal of fortune? These four had tore through his men with ease, and they all knew what they had intended.

"Bisca. What should we do with him?" Vera asked, her tone suggesting the elf was in no mood to be kind.

"Kill him outside. I'm going to hunt down the rest" Stepping into the winter night, Bisca saw several of the wounded beyond trying to crawl away, their cries of desperation falling upon deaf ears.

Pleas of mercy came from Havrin, but were rapidly cut off with a gurgle and dropping body hit the snow.

Raising her longshot, Bisca started to scan the forest, her breath a gust of frost as her trusty hat warmed her head.

A shifting shadow came from behind a distant tree, the form trying to move slowly into the darkness.

Bisca fired, the gun mage earned with a sudden scream as the figure fell. Standing as she worked the bolt, the spent casing flung away in a sparkle of moonlight. Feeding a fresh round from her ammo pouch, Bisca surveyed the strewn bodies littering the forest floor.

Howls and snarls came from the distance, the noise an echo across the cold night.

"Sounds like dire wolves" Vera suggested, the dark elf quickly wiping down her blades then sheathing them.

"Let them feast on the free meals then. I suggest we return to the main road and make for the next village. The scent of blood and battle will attract carnivores in no time"

Level Twenty Three Achieved!

Increased Hit Points and Mana

New skill: Sense Evil

"Oh. I leveled. A blessing from the goddess" Celeste smiled beautifully, the knight looking up as the words faded above her head. Her armor seemed to sparkle, a trick of moonlight that made the spatters of bandit blood appear purple.

"Fuck…THAT IS SO FUCKING STUPID! WHAT'S THE POINT OF IT AT ALL YOU SHITTY GODDESS!? HIT POINTS! MANA AND SKILLS! THIS ISN'T SOME CRAPPY ISKEAI MANGA! ARE YOU TRYING TO PISS ME OFF!?" Roaring to the heavens, the hero was already in a terrible mood due to the two dozen bandits that tried to rape and kill them, but to deal with constant floating numbers of experience points, random updates and other crap…it really made her mad.

Ignoring the pathetic cries from a nearby man half burned, Bisca marched over and stomped his head, ending the thugs suffering as more flecks of gore splattered her heavy boot.

"I mean…its not that bad since it's a gift from La—"

"Nope" Holding up her palm toward Celeste, Bisca tried to ease her rage. "Just…just gather our belongings and let's go"

Marching toward the main road after a few minutes of securing their supplies, they walked through the freshly fallen snow, leaving the bandit ambush behind them without a second thought. Still scowling at the constant reminders of the leveling system, Bisca tried to ebb her anger.

"Hey Bisca? Don't think about it. You were basically body controlled to activating that magic orb. Just enjoy the beautiful stars" Looking upward at the night sky with a smile, Dia admired the points of light that twinkled like diamonds.

Bisca did the same for a few moments, even the battle hardened female admitting they were quite beautiful as they reached the main road and continued Eastward, their forms illuminated under the pale gaze of the two moons.

Howls echoed through the forest, but the women were long gone as the first beasts descended on the scene of twisted bodies and barely living men.

Trent…lived long enough to be eaten alive by four dire wolves, his screams lost on the world as the stars blinked from above in supreme coldness.

Holy City of Lanill, November 18th, 501 H.A.

Akame studied the floating screen, the information rippling like water. Now known to be invisible to others unless specifically given, the female hero felt a small pleasure in reaching level sixteen. Not only was it a recent achievement, but the heroine knew she was the strongest among the group.

A knock came from the door to her private quarters.

"Yes?" her voice like silk, Akame dispelled the leveling system with a few silent words as the door swung open to reveal a low level priestess.

"My apologies Miss Akame, but Priestess Alma is requiring that all the heroes meet her in the summoning room. Please make haste" Bowing, the young women stepped out of the way, leaving the door open.

"I understand" Walking confidently, the raven haired swordswoman strode into the hallway, her clothes of white garments hugging her curves with ease. Passing the bedrooms of the other heroes, Akame noticed they were already empty. No doubt meaning she was the last to be summoned by Alma.

Increasing her pace, she reached the summoning room of the Cathedral, her friends and comrades standing around as Alma stood over the summoning circle.

"I apologize for my tardiness, priestess. I came as quickly as I could"

"It's quite alright, Akame" Wringing her delicate hands, the high priestess paced a few steps, then turned. Stunningly beautiful, her large chest heaved below the shimmering white robes as her golden haired rained down her back like silk. Taking a deep inhale of breath, she turned, facing the nine heroes. "As I'm sure your all aware, a blessing from Lanis has flowed over the world, creating a new magic that will only assist in gathering strength and skill. Several of you now approach level fifteen, a great accomplishment in your training"

"Yeah! We kick ass!" Isamu suddenly cheered with an outburst, the young man high fiving another of the men nearby with grins.

"Damn right we do" Smugly grinning, his friend only nodded as they congratulated themselves.

Clearing her throat, Alma expected the boys to quiet down, and they did.

"It is my belief your lost companion, the tenth hero was responsible. I was told this by a visit from our benevolent goddess of light" Briskly walking over to the magical orb on a pedestal, the ancient artifact gave a light sheen. Holding up a smaller orb, the priestess pushed some mana, linking the two objects as they glowed brighter with a blue hue of magic.

Stepping away, Alma bowed her head. "The church and Adventure guild of Enterra have a long history of non-interference. We simply do not intrude on their business while the guilds avoid church affairs. To share this information…it is only because of the churches role in summoning her to this world in the first place that I was able to convince the Head Master. Of course, with the destruction of Kalm and severing of magic to the Basill continent, the data is now outdated, only compiled until that horrible day" Setting her hand on the larger orb once more, the ball flashed.

A flittering of light glowed, the colors rapidly assembling for the gathered heroes.

Flowing green hair peeked out from a grungy, well worn cowgirl hat, the brim cocked at a light angle. Wearing heavy armor with a central gear symbol, the hints of blue mixed with heavy abrasions. Over her shoulder was a long weapon, the butt barely visible. Held in her gloved hands was another horrid looking weapon, its teeth tinted red from use. A belt of pouches surrounded her waist, ending at a another unknown weapon to the priestess as she stared.

The legs were equally covered, along with heavy boots that looked just ready to stomp.

But the most alarming thing was the cold, hate filled eyes.

"No way…she has guns! That's not supposed to happen during a summoning!" Isamu shouted, the sword user pointing with accusation.

"Yeah! She should be using sword and magic, not rifles! That's not fair!" Nearly whining, Akame ignored the childlike behavior of the others as she approached with Mei, the two women reading several lines of words that came with the magical data file.

"Bisca the Troll Killer. Bisca the Python Slayer. Bandit Butcher. Savior of Augith"

Mie gulped, reading a few more notes as the words wavered in the air with the use of magic. "It says she killed a Crimson Eyed Black Widow Queen…on her first job. Classified as a gunmage…Akame?"

The black haired swordwoman scowled, her stance firm as her hands shook. "What have we been doing? Training and fighting slimes? Small dire boars? The tenth hero has been fighting monsters…battles and saving cities while we sit in rooms of comfort. Even this country is among the most secure lands of Enterra"

"Hah! It's obvious we should go and save her! After all, We're heroes!" Puffing out his chest, Isamu stuck a pose, the young man getting a few cheers.

"No. We're not" Barely whispering the words, they were lost by most. Only Mei and the nearby Akira heard. Turning toward the door, Akame walked briskly past the mage and archer, both quickly following.

"Hero Akame? Where are you going?" Alma inquired, the priestess stepping forward with elegance and grace.

Pausing at the threshold of the summoning room, she glanced over her shoulder at Alma, distinctly aware that Akira and Mei had followed.

"To fight monsters"

Rapidly leaving, the trio soon faded as the others joked and laughed, each confident in their abilities under the rippling gaze of Bisca.

Well, I think that's a good place to end! More of a mixed bag chapter, but I'll probably have a quest or two in the next one for Bisca and company. As for Akame, Mei, and Akira, they'll be doing some quests and trying to earn their titles. But that will probably be 'offscreen' After all, its about Bisca.

Anyway, I have a few Shifting ideas. One will be called 'Doomsday' and the other deals with a necromancer, the soul of Levy and hijinks of stupidity.

Thanks for reading!

Thehappy