The two leaders were in a tent situated outside the city by a field between the city walls and the camped 3rd army with their dwarven mercenary allies . The high general of the 3rd Army and the Senior Royal Adventurer of Lower Lueders were the only people in the spacious royal pavilion. The city's population was in a panic at the sight of the massive forces camped outside. Approximately 10,000 soldiers and 5000 mercenaries. What was most frightening was a dozen massive siege golems , each shaped like a hero of the ancient past. Sampson the strongest man in legend, Kirk McDunn the unstoppable dwarven general, The wily Barktoe First Head Royal Adventurer of the Republic , Sir Polly of the extra wide girth , ...and many more were represented in stone , bronze or iron. It seemed not only the might of Grom, but the fury of its heroes were arrayed against them.
"Governor Commander Kerr, I did not expect to meet you personally at this meeting.", said the diminutive general curtly. "I expected one of your lackeys like that Zahzon fellow , to come instead."
Lord Kerr sighed, "Sadly, he's gone missing. Without a trace I'm afraid. Let's get down to business Olive. Why is your army outside my fair city ? I did not recall summoning it."
Olive regarded him coolly,"We have verified reports of not one but possibly 4 demon or outsider armies converging on your city. Reports from Fort Maximillian, The Keep of Tornic, the town of Heldamar, and the survivors of Fort Karl confirms the one to the south. My scouts report a large force of Xill, and Acherai in the north. The demonic animals we've been aware of for some time, but we regarded them as just a regular occurrence, however its come to our attention that they're being magically controlled. Finally our scouts ..."
"Spies , you mean.", corrected Kerr.
"Our Scouts...have told us about the demonic baboons underneath your city , which you've claimed had been pacified, the demonic beasts will be rising up soon.", finished Olive , unintimidated by the Royal Adventurer.
"I'm sure the reports that have been given you have been greatly exaggerated. The demons beneath the city will soon be placated. They seek a fugitive, which we are close to apprehending. We will exchange him for continued peace, while we build our forces to rid ourselves of this menace in the future. As for the demons to the south, to my knowledge Captain Calla and Captain Markus have both faced and repelled them earlier this spring. Several failed raids by white furred outsiders does not constitute a demonic incursion. The small band of rift raft that invaded Fort Karl have been put down and dispersed from the reports I've read. I haven't heard about this tribe of Xill, but really? Xill? They are temporal raiders , I think what your scouts spotted was just a temporary base of operations for them. As for the animals, so what? The animals in this area have been cursed for a few years now, but they can't penetrate our walls. Only giant squirrels or penguins could breach our defenses, as you know we are too far south for those creatures. "
Olive smiled and unrolled several scrolls and laid them on the table .She motioned to the Governor to examine them. "You know Kerr, we could go on all day like this. Here's the hard facts. I have people already inside your city. The state of your defenses are excellent, but as you can see from these old battle plans, I've already accounted for them. I know where to attack, and how to bypass your choke points. Not to mention , you have no real defense against my skyships. I'm not asking you for permission to respond to the threats to your city, I'm telling you I'm in charge now."
Kerr chuckled, "Come now. Everyone knows who you are, and everyone knows who I am. You're the high general of the 3rd army, I'm the senior royal Adventurer of the north. Only Sir Eggbert , and the Chancellor outranks me. How many of your troops will obey your orders if you attack a peaceful civilian population under my protection. Even if they did, I would most likely escape , and then bring the full might of Grom on you. The city will burn, but a small price to pay to put you in your place I think. Now , be a good girl, and tell me who summoned you , and who gave you the layout of my defenses. You'll keep your rank, and I'll have fun punishing the traitors amongst my midst. I know you think you're good friends with the current Lord Eggbert, but I talked to him yesterday , and sent him to capture the fore mentioned fugitive. "
Olive sighed like a cat who was toying with her prey,"Its true, there are only two people in Grom that outrank you, but that can change you know. I'm sure you've heard rumors that the Dynast has returned? Oh don't give me that look, you know who that is. Alphonso reincarnated , the demon emperor of Grom reborn. Now if you actually maintained a decent information network, you would know that he's in my pocket right now. I think it would be best for everyone if we integrated his return slowly don't you? However, If push comes to shove, I would gladly coronate him right now. His ability to command the siege golems should be proof enough of his identity. If you prefer , I can bring him to Grom and he can summon the Dreadguard, that should be more proof then anyone is willing to stomach I think?"
Kerr shuddered at the mentioning of the Dreadguard. They were Alphonso's personal guard . They were some sort of demonic cavalry that only responded to the old emperor.
Olive smiled triumphantly, "If that occurs, I'm sure we both know what your fate would be. I heard the Bastille is nice this time of year. "
"I could just kill you now you know.", said Kerr visibly shaking and angry.
Olive savored the moment. Kerr had lost his composure, not only had she already won this contest, but seeing his raw visible anger was just icing on the cake.
"You could try, or I could kill you. Since I have no magic powers to strip away, save a few mundane enchanted weapons, I think it would be a pretty even match. This area is warded from travel magic . So if you killed me or worse yet I evade you , I doubt your bloated true form could make it back to the city before my archers and dragon golems would destroy you. If I killed you however , I'm pretty sure I can handle whatever passes as missile troops under Captain Malik's command. That is...if he fires at all. ", yawned Olive playing up her childlike appearance.
Kerr ran the scenarios through his mind, but was powerless to act. He knew his defeat was inevitable and sought to save both his honor and his hide . "What are your terms ?"
Olive's smile vanished. No need to taunt her fallen opponent. "Martial law will be declared. I will be in charge until this crisis is over. You will keep command of your city guard, and whatever resources you have unless I have need of them. I have a list of units, and assets that you will turn over to me. You will also rescind the warrant to capture the fugitive, a captain Fetch I think. After the crisis, you will keep your title , but your actual position remains to be seen. "
Kerr's shoulder slumped. Going up against the army was one thing, but against the Demon Emperor was another. Despite his scheming , self centered, and manipulative ways, Kerr was a creature of his word. He swore fealty to Alphonso years ago, and would honor his obligations .
"I will make the arrangements for your army to enter the city. ",Kerr relented. He glanced at Olive's war plans and was amazed at how thorough and accurate they were. He noticed the defending force's strengths were only guessed at , but their numbers were corrected in dwarven script on the margins. It showed various defender strategies and various attacking counters. Whoever had made these plans had been very thorough and creative in their ideas.
Olive noticed Kerr's wandering eye, "You like it? A member of my general staff made them half a year ago. He has a pretty good tactical and strategic mind."
Kerr sighed,"I suppose he does. I wish I had him working for me, it would have made things more interesting."
Olive returned to her main camp , and entered her command tent. A dark dressed dwarf awaited her return. He had a merchant's face, but his manner and gear suggested one more suited for stealth and subterfuge.
"I'm guessing Lord Kerr didn't take it too well ?", asked Hoaglie.
"Not well at all.", chuckled Olive," He knows his place though. I want you to continue to keep an eye out, and tell me if he mobilizes any of his assets."
Hoaglie nodded,"He doesn't have much left. Only Malik is loyal to him, my people work directly under myself, and he will get no help from Lady Nayra. Keeping the troublesome tax collector under control with taunts, and challenges wasn't one of Kerr's better ideas."
"He fears her? I heard she's a tiefling, is there a chance she would betray us and side with the enemy?", inquired Olive.
"She's loyal, but not to him. He would have replaced her along time ago , but she's the only one in the city that can challenge him in power. Well that's not true. Insector could give him a run for his money I think.", explained the dwarf.
Olive looked at Hoaglie puzzled,"Who the hell is Insector? What type of name is that?"
"He's no one important. You know the dwarven rune for crisis is also the dwarven rune for opportunity. Just remember who your friends are after this is all over.", smiled Hoaglie.
"I can't believe that the gardener/scribe was Sir Eggbert all the time. Is he some type of super spy or something? He was operating under our noses . I wonder if Brita knows. I mean my Brita , not you of course.", Surry said while chatting with her faux mother. Earl had recovered from his shock, spoke a bit to Brita then briskly vanished.
"I talked to your Earl privately, I guess he's a little more secretive on your dimension then he is on mine. He thinks your Brita knows hes a royal adventurer but doesn't realize he's the third most powerful man in Grom.", replied the Brita the paladin.
"Third? Behind the Chancellor ...and Lord Kerr?", asked Brita.
"No..not Kerr, please. Behind the Chancellor and Emperor Clovis. Oh wait..did I do that again? Did i reveal something I shouldn't have.", said Brita in surprised.
"Wait...Clovis is really the emperor? I thought you guys called him that on your world because he could command golems. You know, like the legendary King Magnus , he wasn't really a king you know , he just liked to talk big. ", exclaimed Surry . She wondered what other revelations paladin Brita would reveal if prodded correctly.
"Ok, ok. Enough chit chat, and revealing stuff we shouldn't be. With Brita's sword, my healing, and your magic , we should have enough to make another attack on the Temple of the Baboon. We're kind of under staffed, but we'll do what we can.", smirked Fetch. He never saw Surry or Brita talked so openly and lightly before, and he enjoyed their strange bond. Even though he reminded himself, that she wasn't this world's Brita, she talked and acted much in the same manner. He hoped one day that Surry and her real mother could talk the same way.
As the group readied their gear, the revived Sarin knocked on the open door to announce his coming. The half elf was clearly embarrassed about last night, he almost slew the person he was suppose to be guarding. Even though it was Fetch's fault for not telling him that Hush was a tiefling, he felt greatly responsible for the mix up. "Knock knock..its just me..Sarin..don't turn me into stone or a bug or anything ok. A mute dwarf with a note here to see you."
"Pigiron?", asked Fetch. He never talked to Hoaglie's body guard, no one but Tyris did , but the cleric had been to the arena and more specifically Hoaglie's office enough that he recognized the broad warrior dwarf as he entered. From what he could tell, the dwarf was not only mute, but could only communicate in "cat". He wasn't sure how that worked, but he often waved to the stout bodyguard, regardless of response.
The very broad armored dwarf entered the room, and walked to Fetch. He handed the cleric a note, which Fetch promptly read.
"Dear Fetch/Insector
I know the peril the city is in, and I've heard of your failed first expedition. I know its imperative you succeed now where you have failed in the past, and I offer the services of my finest warrior to aid you. Don't bother trying to talk to him, he can understand your words, but has no clue how to communicate back. Just place trust in his sword, and his ability to take a hit.
Hoaglie. "
Fetch looked at the mute warrior. He looked like a typical dwarven adventurer, except significantly broader. The cleric normally wouldn't accept strangers on an expedition, but he had little choice at the moment.
"Welcome aboard, I guess.", Fetch said , while extending his hand.
Pigiron just crouched and sniffed his hand, then ...gave a low rumbling in his stomach as he rubbed his beard on it.
"ERr..EWWW ... I think he's purring , or something. ", replied Surry in disgust. Unlike most other elves she had no problems with dwarves. She spent most of her adult life working with them, and they were the first people who treated her and her brother with any respect. However she drew the line when it came to crazy dwarves acting like cats.
Sarin returned a short while later ,"Errr Your twin is here."
Surry looked up surprised,"Agni? He's here? "
Sarin shook his head,"Err no...her twin ..." He said while pointing to Brita.
The sorceress Brita entered the room and smiled at Surry and Fetch," SYR ! FETCH! ..." then her jaw dropped as she met her otherworldly doppelganger.
Surry face palmed her forehead, "Oh great, I'm sure we're breaking some sort of dimensional law here. Are you two going to explode? maybe start fighting or something now?"
The imp noted the demonic troop movements, and knew they would strike soon. He would have to be patient if he was going to survive.
Baalphzon waited in the darkness. It came easily to him, but it certainly wasn't natural. The thought of slinking in the darkness was repulsive to him. He was a member of the Dark Eight. Foes trembled at his coming and enemies would lay shattered by his passing. Arch Dukes would curry his favor, and demon lords would send gifts to appease his wrath.
Or at least he thought he was a member of the Dark Eight. It has been so long , since he was a pitfiend, he sometimes questioned his own identity. Sure, other powerful beings have acknowledged him as Baalphzon but maybe it was some sort of joke. Everyone was in on it but him. Maybe he truly was a deluded imp that thought he was a fallen pitfiend.
"No...I am Baalphzon of the Dark Eight. I shall regain my power, and my enemies shall all fall before me!", he growled under his breath. He knew it was all a test. A test to see if he was worthy enough to regain his power. He hooked up with that idiot of a cleric to take him to various places he could not go himself. So far his association with Fetch had bore fruit, he had journeyed to the Library of Boryis, the grove of the Tree of Life, the shrine of Hanali Celanil, even the Temple of the Baboon. Each time he reached a nexus of power, he held out hope there would be a cure for his affliction but each time he failed miserably to secure one. Baalphzon was undaunted though, he would eventually be restored to his full strength.
He entertained thoughts of what he would do to his "companions" when he was freed. He would put Trip into a cuckcoo clock. Henrietta would be eaten as a snack, with the word Gnome branded on her. Surry and Ymir he would place in his harem. Tyris was too dangerous , she would have to be imprisoned or put down. Dietrch and Frank were already dead, so he would animate whats left of their bodies and use them as servants. Of course Fetch would be his jester, he was already an expert at making him laugh. The imp grinned at the thought, but wondered if he was actually capable of doing such acts. Sure , it would be fun, but he had grown accustomed almost friendly to his "companions". He paused and wondered if he could have possibly considered them as friends?
He reflected on the last seven months and shuddered at some of the things he's done. Helped orphans, saved Fetch's marriage, even assisted Surry in setting up her grove. Baalphzon despaired at the very real possibility that he might truly be only a mere imp. He could not imagine a member of the Dark Eight doing such altruistic deeds. He was suppose to be a devil, not only a devil but a pitfiend the most powerful and vilest of the denizens of the hells short of Archdukes, and not only a pitfiend but a member of the ruling council of pitfiends. How could such a being spend his time playing marriage counselor by repairing Fetch and Tyris's relationship ?
Before Baalphzon could reflect on this bizarre idiosyncrasy , he spotted an opportunity. The troops seemed to have stop moving through the portal. Only a light guard remained. "Easy enough to get through", thought the imp,"A pitfiend or an imp can get by these idiots."
Ymir yawned, "Booorrrrrinnnnggg. " The dwarf thought she could be flirting with rich (and handsome) dwarven nobles in Lower Lueders right now, instead she was marching with a company of her mercenaries through the forest.
She and her soldiers crowded around the large carts as they marched. The decoy ore they used at the Lake Tower, was insufficient to stop planar travel, but these rocks were large enough and of high enough grade to make their purpose functional. The draft horses seemed maddened as they entered the woods, but the sedatives provided to them, seem to keep them in check. Ymir noted that if she had proper dwarven war ponies they would not be thrown into such a panic. The hardy beasts could be buried in a box, and still remain level headed . At least that's what the tales said.
The dwarven mercenary captain was told by Clovis that the rocks not only disrupted planar travel, but he had put enchantments on them to draw forth creatures that were hiding in the Aether. Some sort of magnet , was the analogy he gave. She had known Clovis for over 40 years, and she did not doubt his word. After they returned from the north with their tales of heroism and bags of gold, success was still not assured for either of them. However with his magic and innovations, and her brute strength and muscle , they both helped each others careers to take off. Ymir fondly recalled , breaking up and slapping the hell out of rival merchants who thought that hiring some thugs for intimidation would put the young Clovis in his place. She also recalled the armor and weapons he enchanted for her, and the steady supply of dragon powder she received to put her ahead of her mercenary competition. Even now they were nearing a break through, that would make her a virtual queen amongst dwarves. His version of the great forge was nearly complete. If it worked , her thaig would be the richest and most powerful clan in the north. It would not have the divine powers of a true great forge , but it would be able to process adamant ore. The hardest material known to dwarf. She remembered the tales of the great dwarven heroes in the past. Vorin the Grim and Mountain of the Burning Hall, how they established their own kingdoms and were honored by having them named after them. Vorin Narg, Monty Nargar. Would Ymir Narg be too far off , she thought.
The dwarven warrior maid's day dreaming was interrupted as a strange sucking noise was heard by the lead wagon. Several chitinous 4 armed creatures and what could only be described as a demon chicken appeared out of midair . They crashed into the ground, but appeared disorientated more from the way they appeared then their fall. A moment of hesitation befell her troops, before Ymir yelled, "What are you waiting for? A hug ? Kill them!"
Her troops snapped out of their bewilderment and mercilessly dispatched the creatures. About a dozen more creatures popped and were sucked in by the wagons in the next few minutes and were destroyed quickly as well. The strange creatures stopped appearing after that and Ymir wondered if the "battle " was over? Olive warned her , that she would be up against the Xill,one of the most dangerous and militant creatures to stalk the astral planes. They give even the Githyanki , the masters of sword and magic, and the Neogi, the feared slave taking spiders, hesitation. So far, the Xill's reputation had not impressed the battle hardened dwarf.
Suddenly a shriek came from the woods, as several hundred Xill riding the odd looking demon chickens burst through the woods and charged her troops. Ymir nodded as she surmised the Xill must have noticed their actions and decided to strike back with a large portion if not all their numbers.
The dwarf ducked under the claw of one of the birds, and swept her great axe in a destructive arc . The creature squawked as it was surprised by the power of her blow and fell to its side . flaying its legs. Ymir jumped effortlessly atop the beast , and spied its rider was pinned under the creature's bulk. The xill seemed uninjured by the fall, but the massive chicken's bulk restricted his movements. Ymir felt a presence behind her and swept her axe smoothly backwards , bisecting the Xill rushing behind her. In a fluid motion, she stomped her iron boot into the pinned Xill's head. She didn't need to look at her handiwork , as she felt its skull buckle and split from the force of her impact.
"The handsome young dwarves of Lower Lueders will have to wait, this is way more fun!", she beamed as the battle swirled around her.
Surry was relieved that not only the two Brita's weren't at each others throats, but they didn't explode when they touched. Fetch was just glad they had a sorceress of the highest caliber at his side. Henrietta was good at her specialties, namely lore and history, but his world's Brita was unparallelled at pure destructive power. He didn't get to speak to her much beyond greetings, since she was caught up with talking to her twin and daughter, but Fetch could tell she had grown in power since the last time they met. Her tattoos seemed to almost move , and her overall presence seemed to dominate the room. Her twin bore herself nobly and confidently , and he had no doubts about her martial skill, but Fetch was sure his Brita could wipe the floor with everyone in this room, including himself, with her magic.
Surry was at first glad that her two mother's weren't at each others throats, but she quickly despaired when they started talking about their wayward daughter, and how it was imperative to find her a suitor right after this quest.
Surry protested that neither of them were married either , but they both replied in unison, "More the reason to find you a husband, we don't want you to make the same mistakes as us."
Despite the comedy of the situation , Fetch knew the seriousness of the matter. He packed the last bit of supplies then waited till night fall. He then lead this new group downwards through the sewer, and noticed that the tribe of Troglodytes had vacated the area. The reason was made plainly clear as a pack of demons attacked them from the darkness. There was about 20 of them, and they were the baboon headed variety . They moved quickly and fought fiercely. Despite their raw power though, they were no match for Fetch and his band . Fetch was more concerned with Surry and Brita, not that they were in danger, but he was worried they might use too much magic in dispatching these minor menaces. He had been adventuring long enough to know to conserve his powers for the more powerful foes later. His fears were unfounded however, as his group quickly beat down the hybrid creatures quickly and efficiently. He was most impressed with Pigiron. He hadn't expect much from the mute dwarf, but his skill with the sword was as good as Dietrch's.
When the group descended past the fey levels they were greeted with a curious sight. The floors of the baboon levels seemed to have collapsed or even shifted around itself. Fetch noticed several landmarks he remembered from his last 2 trips, but the entire area had changed. It seemed to change into a large arena , mimicking the great coliseum in the city above.
He noticed the portal he escaped through , and a small army of demons awaiting him. A familiar baboon headed demon with a flaming whip and a lightning blade pointed and laughed at Fetch. A feral ogre woman , and a mummy adorned with gold flanked the creature. A beautiful tall woman , with pale skin and a shock of blood red hair seemed to hover above the forces, clearly leading them with her overwhelming presence.
"Mistress Cerasum, you are right! The fool has returned. Let us finish this !", barked the Baboon headed balor.
"It took you long enough, let's end this now before I lay waste to your city, country, and world.", smiled the woman known as not only Cerasum but the Avatar of Myleka.
General Olive saw Ymir's forces were engaged with the Xill. She waited till the enemy was fully locked with the dwarves before signalling her skyships to engage the enemy. The xill were feared raiders, but the general knew their reputation was due solely by their ability to shift through dimensions. Take away that advantage and their tactics were as easily pierced as a goblin's plans.
The bulk of her army was still in reserve outside the city , she knew that the demonic creatures were her greatest concern. She told Kerr to ready barracks for her forces but she had no intention of entering the city. The last thing she wanted was a chaotic city melee like in McDunnalds. She rather faced her foe on the open field. The reports claim , giant wolves, baboons, even penguins were hiding in the woods. She hoped to engage them soon, she would need her army ready and free from distractions when the demons finally arrive. Especially the demons to the south. Her diviners told her they were elements of the army of the pharaoh Dow Mow. If that was true, his army alone was a great enough threat to all of Grom, if they had a chance to join with these other forces...victory would be nigh impossible.
A flash of fire and smoke appeared by the general, and a handsome young man appeared and bowed before the general. He wasn't wearing a standard liaison officer's uniform, but did bear Kerr's seal.
"An army of fiendish animals, led by penguins ...and a squirrel, have broke cover and approach the city from the north.", Yasmina reported to the general.
Olive was ready for penguins, wolves, baboons or whatever else foes the enemy sent, but had not counted on a squirrel to appear. "How big is it?" . It was a rhetorical question, all squirrels were monstrous in size.
"Too big, several penguins have been spotted riding it.", Yasmina grimly shook her head.
Olive had fought in the Great War, fought the first demon horde, the armies of Yeenoghu and the DarkRiver horde...but for the first time in a long time she felt a shiver of fear . She remembered her expedition to the Frozen Wolf Glacier, there she was cursed into her current diminutive body and there she witnessed the Great Squirrel stuffed a war mammoth in each one of its fuzzy cheeks. She thought she had things planned, but this was definitely unaccounted for.
Her best course of action was to pull back, sacrifice the troops she committed, and most likely sacrifice the city. It would be a dark day , but at least the bulk of her army would survive. She weighed how many innocents would be lost if she retreated, compared to the chaos and destruction that would ensue if her army was destroyed .
The demons hadn't even showed yet, and her plans were unraveling before her. If Kerr survived, the entire fiasco would be blamed on her. Her reputation as a general would be ruined regardless of whatever decision she made. She surprised herself by considering what her more famous comrade, Monte Nabisco would do in this situation.
She hated the man, she knew that his entire reputation was a sham, but a few lucky victories and his penchant for stealing the glory from others made him a legendary almost godlike hero in the eyes of the army and the citizens of Grom. There was one thing she respected about him though, that was his ability to meet a challenge regardless of odds. Olive was taught not to unnecessarily risk her troops , better to withdraw and fight another day. However, would there be another day to fight after this? If the demons won now they would mercilessly harass her army as they withdrew , the entire north would fall and they would use this area as a staging ground to attack Grom City.
It went against every instinct of Olive. She was taught to never fight battles which victory wasn't assured or was decidedly in her favor. Historians and arm chair generals always talked about the fog of war, and the chaos of battle, but it was just a series of calculated risks to Olive. Even during the battle between the Great Host and the Gnoll horde , Olive was certain of victory before the first arrow was fired. However today was different, the odds were definitely stacked against her, but she knew she wouldn't have another chance..
"Orders general?", asked Kube, her fiendish servant.
"Order the Siege golems to engage. Prepare the first to third battalions to support them. We might stand a chance, if we hit them hard now. ", Olive said with hope in her voice, but defeat in her eyes.
Cerasum laughed as Fetch and his companions readied to battle her army. She wished to fully rebuild her strength, but events outside the city had forced her hand. She expected the cleric to be cowering in the city somewhere, and despite her words, did not expect him to challenge her army again so soon. It was only in the hundreds, the cleric and his companions slew a great many of them the last time they fought, but a demons hordes strength was measured by quality not quantity. Baboonlor and most of his mariliths , glabrezu and nalfeshnee minons were still alive. She half expected the cleric to flee and her demons to hunt them down in the upper levels of the temple, but she was delighted when they marched into the arena to face them.
She regarded her victims and the ways she would dispatch them. Fetch he would torture some more, she didn't know how he escaped the last time but he will not be allowed another opportunity. The Treekeeper was more ugly then she anticipated, she could however prove useful to her schemes after she broke her mind of course. The dwarf lacked appearance and spirit, like so many of his race. He would simply be food for his hordes. The sorceress and the paladin however...she tingled at the thought of draining the twin beauties vitality from them. Perhaps they would be her slaves after their forms were twisted and wretched , or perhaps she would devour them like so many previous sacrifices.
She decided to begin the battle by taunting her adversary. She pointed to the sword at her side, "I wield the sword Galatea. The demon scourge. If you could not defeat me with a knight wielding this legendary demon slaying sword, how could you beat me now?"
Fetch flinched at the mention of the word "knight". "Poor Frank" , he thought. He knew the body was gone by now, even if he had the diamonds to bring him back, would there even be enough of him to resurrect? A silent vow of vengeance passed through his lips, the debt Cerasum owed him was growing bigger and bigger.
"I will never serve you, Avatar of Corruption. I rather be melted down then allow you to wield me!", exclaimed Galatea defiantly.
"Ahh the sword speaks at last. Do not worry, I have no doubts you will resist my grasp. However, I'm not like your weak willed wielders of the past. You will not be able to impose your will on mine. I will drench you in the blood of an innocent maiden everyday , preferably an elven one if I can find enough of them, till your spirit is crushed. If somehow you hold out, then I will grind your blade away on the grindstones of the abyss till you are nothing but a hilt, and use you to pleasure myself every night.", laughed the foul goddess.
Fetch shivered at the thought of the noble Galatea , reduced to a deranged goddess's sex toy. It was just another reason he had to win this battle. Prophecy or not, he must win. Trying wasn't good enough, more then ever he craved victory.
A tap on Cerasum's shoulder surprised the avatar. She turned around at the unexpected tap, and a mailed fist slammed into her face. She stumbled back and realized that the sword was no longer in her possession. Her vision blurred briefly from the force of the blow, but her eyes focused on two northern warriors floating down towards her in strange glowing spectral armor.
"HEY! Sewer Skank ! I'm talking to you! No one makes dirty innuendo about Galatea but ME! ", shouted Frank. Dietrch readied his weapon behind him, knowing they were surrounded by foes.
"You..you were killed ! Devoured! I saw it with my own eyes.", stammered the confused Avatar.
"Well you know my order's motto ...", winked Frank.
"We never stop!", Galatea finished in an almost tearful joyous voice.
The odd looking succubus , and her two short elven slaves journeyed deeper into the palace. Despite her hands being covered in blood and gore , none of the guards seemed to be troubled by it. Infact the "acessory" seemed to complement rather then distract from her disguise.
"What are we looking for exactly?", whispered one of the elves in a mechanical voice.
"I dunno, a way out, our friends..", replied the other elf.
"Typical Henrietta plan, she has no plan. Why do you think she follows Surry and Fetch so readily.", replied the Succubus.
The second elf glared at the succubus, but had no retort. She would show them all, once she figured this out and saved the day.
The trio finally came upon a gem encrusted door. It was locked , and the elves could not budge it. The succubus looked to one of the elves, and the elf nodded in acknowledgement. The bat winged demoness took a step back and slammed her shoulder into the door, cracking and smashing it in one fluid motion. The first elf, drew a pair of dragon golems and awaited hostiles but none came.
They entered a room with a large silk bed, covered with pillows of various colors. Gauzy sheets hung loosely from the roof and gave the room an almost harem like quality. The trio however was horrified as several drained men and women lied scattered around the room. Their bodies twisted and their faces frozen in masks of fright.
"Do we...know any of them?", asked the second elf afraid to examine the bodies. The succubus and the first elf had no qualms about the corpses and proceeded to examine the victims.
"No", the first elf said mechanically, with a sigh of relief.
"Look", pointed the succubus, as she retrieved a large chalice, filled with a strange liquid. It appeared to be molten gold, but moved like water, and gave off no heat.
The second elf uttered some arcane words , and fell back suddenly rubbing her eyes. It took her almost a minute to recover, but she smiled," Its magical alright. Very magical. "
The succubus, nodded and poured the liquid into a previously unaccounted for flask. She placed the flask oddly into her body , out of sight of everyone.
The three rifled through the room, but discovered nothing else useful.
"I'm guessing this is someone's bedroom. Someone really important. Maybe that red headed vampire we fought?", guessed the second elf.
"Negative.", replied the mechanical sounding elf," No bite marks on these corpse's necks, also no coffin here. Trust me , I fought vampires, and that woman we fought was not a vampire. Something similar perhaps, but not the undead. "
"I'm curious to hear your thoughts on what she is...", purred a strange voice above them.
The group looked and saw a large armored 6 armed elven woman with a serpent torso hanging from the roof.
"That is...if there's anything left of you .", the demon formerly known as Talia said as she drew 6 deadly blades.
Ymir brought her axe crashing down on the last demonic chicken's head. The creature squawked and clucked as it sprayed dark mist around it. The dwarf ignored the stench , and hacked away once more into the wound she already made. It collapsed from the second blow, twitching its legs harmlessly as it died.
The dark mist proved to be a problem, it drove many of her soldiers mad . Fortunately their attackers did little to take advantage of the situation. Some of the dwarven soldiers attacked their allies in their crazed state, but most attacked whoever was attacking them. Luckily for the Armsmen it was the Xill and their mounts. The dwarves were use to fighting beside berzerkers and knew the proper protocols when dealing with out of control warriors. Stand back, and let their fury subside.
Ymir surveyed the battlefield , she only led what appeared to be a company for this trap, and the enemy looked like they outnumbered her almost 2 to one when they first attacked. Their advantage was short lived however, as hidden dwarven troops in the carts sprung to their defense, while Grommish skyships completed the trap.
The enemy gave a good accounting for themselves though, but equal odds, dwarven steel and superior tactics , almost always spelled victory for the Armsmen. As the last Xill was slain , a cheer rose from her troops . Ymir was happy, not only was this a start of a good campaign, but she was paid in advance as well. Things were looking up.
Her opinion changed rapidly however, as deadly tuxedoed reapers burst through the woods.
"Penguins!", cried the confused soldiers.
The monsters initial onslaught killed a score of her soldiers before they were properly formed into a battle line. The monstrous animals kept pouring out of the woods , seemingly endless in number. Hundreds, thousands...maybe tens of thousands were attacking. They ranged from baboons, wolves, bears, to penguins.
"Form Dwarven square !", shouted Ymir. Her crack troops expertly reformed into their carefully drilled defensive formations. The crazed beasts flung themselves at the shield walls , but were pushed back time and time again. The Armsmen dragoneers and crossbowmen focused their fire on the larger deadlier penguins, while the Grommish skyships dropped rocks , and flaming munitions onto the animals rear ranks, breaking and scattering the beasts.
It was a fierce battle , but Ymir knew her troops would not be beaten by a bunch of dumb critters, fiendish or not.
All that changed when an impossibly large and dark shadow seemed to leap from the woods, and landed atop a skyship. Several red and blue magical shields became briefly visible around the vessel as the creature crashed and disrupted them. Men panicked and jumped off the oddly shaped shark hulled vessel as the monstrous creature stuffed sailors rapidly into its ever expanding cheeks. It gave a roar as the vessel lost control and spiraled into the ground. The creature nimbly jumped off it with an unnatural agility, despite its size, crushing its own allies in the process.
Ymir had witnessed Dalton the dragon destroying a skyship in McDunnalds, and thought that was the most awesome sight she had ever witnessed. This creature however , was a construct straight from her deepest nightmare, and was easily 10x more frightening then the draconic mage. The battle field was silent for a moment , man , dwarf , and beast all seemed paralyzed by this living juggernaut of destruction. It was impossibly huge, covered in blood drenched fur, had a large bushy tail, and 2 dark souless orbs for eyes. Finally the creature gave a deafing roar, that panicked even the most seasoned warrior.
"SQUIRREL!", cried several soldiers as they threw down their weapons and fell to their knees cowering in fear.
Tyris took a step back and was impressed by the odd shaped mobile. Even with the artifact blade, Dragon's Flame, she had been unable to rend the prison . The imprisoned goddesses despaired, and asked her once again to dispatch them mercifully. She had resisted the plead to slay them , but almost gave in when the elf pleaded with her once again.
"Please...you must kill us. Mylena has trapped us , some for months, some for years, others for centuries.", the elven goddess said pointing at the Ethengarian Diety specifically.
"We are powerless inside our prisons, only fuel for her infernal machine. She drains our power and beauty and uses it to brew her elixir. With it she grows ever more powerful . If you slay us, our spirits would be weaken , but at least they would be freed .", the aspect of Hanali Celanil explained.
Tyris shook her head at the request, and decided on another approach. She drew two mundane looking pins from her bound pony tail. She then began to furiously pick the locks that caged them. Even though she was a bard, she was first and foremost a rogue. She prided herself on being able to open any mechanical device. Tyris was stymied at first, but she persistently worked on the locks till the goddesses were released in short order. Each goddess seemed to calmly fade when released. Except the Ethengar goddess, she seemed to form herself into a cloud and race out. Tyris assumed since she was here the longest she had lost the most of her powers. She knew she was offered their power in exchange for their deaths but was glad she had turned down the offer. Suddenly she stopped. A subtle surge of strength and energy flowed through her. She was horrified. The goddesses she released had some how imparted a part of their will on her. For innumerable years, she had shied away from gaining more power, but here she was gathering more power then she ever thought possible.
Would she keep her mind and her humanity after this? She smashed the golden cup and the dias, the golden liquid spilled onto the floor and quickly evaporated into ethereal mists. She was shocked as the mists seemed to flow into her , imbuing her limbs with even more power. She swung at the infernal mobile, and was surprised that the seemingly indestructible machine was destroyed easily with the swing of her blade.
For a brief second she panicked. She had become what she dreaded the most. She consider slaying herself as an option to avoid that nightmarish course. She considered ending her own life now with Dragon's blade, and was shocked that her inner voice agreed with her. "This is not what we want. We do not want to become a harbinger of entropy. How could we face Fetch and our daughters?".
In a final fit of fury , she released some of her power through Dragon's flame, and the remains of the machine and the grisly trophies on the walls erupted in fire. She let the flames surround her, but then noticed that her power was slowly waning.
"Of course, the machine's gift is not permanent, else Myleka would not need to constantly drain these goddesses. ", she laughed at herself. She had almost ended her own life based on incorrect information.
"A Fetch moment", remarked her other self.
She couldn't help but laugh at her own joke.
Despite being surrounded by demons and demigods, Frank and Dietrch attacked their foes, with a fury previously unknown to them.
Frank punched a shaggy boar demon, stunning it ,while Galatea swiftly hopped into his hands. The knight spun in a fluid motion and chopped the surprised creature's head off in one blow.
"Wait a minute, I thought I wasn't worthy to wield you?", asked the knight, passing the bastard sword to his other hand, while forming a spectral shield with his now empty hand.
"One of my stipulations is I will not be wielded by anyone who relies on other magic items, I can sense you have none at the moment.", replied the sword curtly.
"What about the part about being noble and pure of heart?", smiled Frank as he blocked Baboonlor's flaming whip with his new spectral shield.
"We'll work on that part later.", said Galatea coyly.
Frank was about to reply when a sword of lightning slashed with unstoppable power and speed at his neck.
"Not again ...", was all the knight could say before it severed his head neatly.
"FOOL! BABOONLOR IS MORE THEN A MATCH FOR YOU!", screamed the Balor lord as the knights head rolled to the ground.
"Frank! ", cried Galatea as her rescuer was once again slain.
"BABOONLOR IS MYLKEA'S GREATEST SERVANT. NONE CAN WITHSTAND HIS...ERRRK!", the hybrid balor lord stopped as a small whip like tail wrapped around his neck. It shouldn't have affected him, but it was made of cold iron and enchanted with holy magics.
"Oh shut up, how can anyone take you seriously with such a stupid name ...", whispered a voice in his ear. "C'mon Baboonlor? Baboon Balor..put together...that's as bad as owlbear, or Zomanpion. Your an upper echelon demon for Asmodeus's sake, try to have a little imagination."
Baboonlor gripped his whip tightly into his fist, and smashed its pommel into the imp tormenting him. The blow connected firmly , but the imp simply coughed, "You have to do better then that, tough guy. I'm not sure if I'm an imp or pitfiend trapped in an imp's body, but I sure as hell won't be dislodged that easily."
"Frank !", cried Galatea, "How cruel the fates are, when after I finally find a knight I can trust to wield me, he's instantly slain. Is there no mercy from the gods? ...".
"That almost sounded like a sob", replied the headless Frank. The knight scooped up his head and placed it on his body. "I was hoping for ..a "Please don't die Frank...I love you", but I'll settle for that lament.", joked the battered but now whole knight.
"How?...what happened?...what?", gasped a confused Galatea.
"Well...I'm not really alive right now, so decapitations don't really hurt that much. I'll explain later, lets just say it involved a 300 lb hunk of boar love machine, a lonely valkyrie, a malfunctioning divine viewing room, and balls of steels.", declared the warrior once again wading into battle.
Fetch wasn't sure what was happening, but one moment he was being insulted by the Avatar of Myleka, the next moment Frank and Dietrch appeared and a mass melee ensued. His friends had the element of surprised but were quickly surrounded. Fetch was not about to let the initiative escape his grasp though.
The Britas and Pigiron drew their swords and descended on the demonic flank. Fetch expected his Brita to use a spell or something, and assumed she coordinated with her daughter a plan of attack. Fetch heard the three talk earlier, but was more focused on navigating through the sewers and down the upper fey levels of the complex to notice what they were scheming.
He entered the battle by calling forth a holy word, but something dispelled it. He called forth a barrier of blades but something dispelled that as well.
"Holy word, blade barrier...nice try", replied Cerasum with a giggle . Despite Franks initial attack, the beautiful red headed avatar was clearly pleased with herself.
Surry uttered some spells as well but cursed as nothing happened as well." Extended haste, black tentacles, maximize fireballs...boring.", yawned Cerasum. "Cat's grace? , you can have that one."
"She's identifying then dispelling our useful spells , she's some sort of counter spell specialist.", replied Surry as she drew her bow. She fired an arrow at the avatar, but she simply held out a hand and stopped it.
Fetch noticed the battle was turning against them. The Britas and Pigiron's initial charged had been blunted, while it appeared Frank was slain once again. Dietrch was holding his own, but he doubt even his fey skin would save him for long. As Frank's assailant towered over his decapitated victim, a small but familiar form attacked the much larger demon , and gripped him by the neck.
Fetch saw Baalphzon take terrible blows as he was taunting his victim with his sharp tongue. The cleric knew it would not last, the imp had a portion of Fetch's vitality, but even the cleric knew that he could not withstand a continued barrage of blows like the one the baboon balor was inflicting.
Fetch smiled as he considered the imps bravery. When he made the pact with him , he always suspected he would be betrayed eventually by him. Visions of the imp cackling holding his soul while flying back to the nine hells haunted his nightmares. However , during the last half year he found the creature not only helpful but indispensable. Besides his helpful advice , and deeds, he was the one that convinced him to adopt which ended up saving his relationship with Tyris. That alone should have convinced Fetch of his loyalty. In a sense the imp had saved his soul instead of stealing it. Attacking a baboon balor , was selflessness he would never have suspected when he first met the creature.
"OOFFF...that's all well and good, but I won't be able to hold this creature forever...OFFFF", thought Baalphzon as another fist hit him.
Fetch saw the feral ogress break from the pack and leap on Dietrch's back. He turned and saw Surry had gone missing once again. Things were going badly indeed. He had one more ace up his sleeve however.
"A counter spell of some sort? Please...that's my department. You can cast your stupid spell. Sorry to disappoint you, but my forces don't rely on enchantments , its pointless to have them up while I'm throwing area dispels around the battlefield.", laughed the Avatar of Myleka.
Suddenly the ground shook and the battlefield seemed to momentarily stand still. A huge fiery muscular creature appeared, balanced on Baboonlor's head. The balor lord was monetarily surprised, before the creature's massive cold iron tail shredded his head from his neck. It exploded in the enemy's center with a massive explosion. Frank and Dietrch were both thrown off their feet in the blast as well as hundreds of confused and bewildered demons. The massive pitfiend picked up Baboonlor's charred severed head and stared at it .
"If you ever managed to reform, please pick a better name.", he laughed as he threw the skull at the feral ogress. It struck the creature squarely, and the skull shattered like a grenade in a shower of bone fragments. The feral ogre seemed to evade the blast, but the skulls impact sent it tumbling. It fell from sight and vanished into the darkness.
The pitfiend stared at its restored body, and gave a withering glare at Fetch. The battle began again around him, but he seemed oblivious to the conflict. "How? Why? ", were his only words.
Fetch smirked, "Well I discovered a way to break your curse awhile ago, but wasn't sure when to use it. It seems I'm better at hiding my thoughts then you realize."
A range of emotions passed through the restored Baalphzon's face. Anger, surprise, then amusement. "Why does it not surprise me.", the ptifiend said as he calmly grasped a huge pincer armed demon that tried to attack him from behind. He hefted it up like a toy, and brought it crashing down on his knee. The force of the impact shattered its spine as it flayed helplessly .
Surry walked up to the mummy and nodded her head at it.
"Your companions fight well...", it hissed . It had not participated in the battle so far. It seemed more amused by the quality of the combatants then the actual battle itself. " I see two epic level combatants, several greater petitioners , a dwarven warrior and paladin of moderate skill ...oh look...a pitfiend lord, maybe a member of the dark eight. I suppose I should enter the fray, else my mistress will become terribly mad at me." He said with what passed for a smile .
"Cut the crap Dow Mow. You and your forces are more powerful then the aspect of Arcturus, the Xill army, even the Avatar of Myleka combined. You're just fooling around, watching us mortals battle for your amusement.", replied the half elf in disgust.
The mummy pantomimed an exaggerated display of shock, before grinning at the wizardess." How very astute. My reputation proceeded me , even millennia after my "death". Its true though, I plan to serve Myleka as my powers increase. I'll let her do the heavy lifting so to speak, and claim the prize when most of the work is done. "
Surry gave the creature an appreciative clap, "Well played, but you are the pharaoh Dow Mow. What else can one expect from your fearsome reputation."
The creature attempted a chuckle, but it sounded more like dry hacking. "You flatter me, its refreshing to find someone so insightful in this barbaric and chaotic time. I assume you want a position in my new regime? Consort maybe? I'll need a few of those I suppose . Mainly for appearances though."
Surry put her finger to her chin, "I was thinking General, or Chief Astrologer, but I'm not here to flatter you I'm here to warn you."
The mummy appeared curious as he listened to the half elf,"Warn me? Even the pitfiend over there can not hurt me. What could I possibly be worried about?"
Surry shook her head, "As we speak , a band of adventurer's lead by my imbecile brother is making their way to your pyramid. I'm sure they have no idea what they're doing , but there is a good chance they might break stuff. You know how adventurer's are. They like to steal and break whatever they can't rob. It would be a shame, if they broke a container containing...lets say someone's magical organs...in their path of destruction."
The mummy's piercing eyes stared at Surry and knew there was truth in her story. Most greater undead have their powers sealed in a specific object. A lich had its phylactery, a vampire had its coffin, and a greater mummy had its magical organ jar. To lose it would greatly affect his power. He paused but continued the cordial conversation, hoping to glean more information ,"An interesting story , but what would make me believe such a tale."
Surry smiled, she knew he already believed her , "Well for starters, I keep tabs on my brother. You know ... crystal ball palantir like thingy..I even have a viewing pool at my grove like Galadriel does... and the last I checked on them, they had recovered the Book of Keys, and they are headed for hmm, I'm not sure if the names are the same, but its a place next to a lava lake, by a sheer cliff, with a high pass. Its about 2/3 up the mountain in deep chamber. Your pyramid is in the center, unassailable, unless they have the Book of Keys I believe. "
The mummy lost its composure , "How do you know this! Why are you telling me this!"
Surry shrugged, "Hey I'm just letting me future pharaoh know . Don't worry its just my brother, he's an idiot trust me. He's son of the idiot Warmaster there, daughter of big breasted Brita over there, the one with the nasty dragon tats, and grandson of the insane Sir Hildraxel the guy who slew the the avatar of Yeenoghu. I'm sure with crazy relatives like that, he's bound to fall flat on his face."
The mummy glared at her with malevolent eyes,"I will not fall prey to such simple tricks. I shall kill you now , to maintain my illusion of subservience to my mistress."
Surry smiled "First off, you will try to kill me...I have no doubt you're more powerful then me, but can you defeat me before my companions come to my aid . Secondly, have you checked out the battle recently? Your friends aren't doing too good, you might have no one to show off to soon. Now run along like a good mummy . We're in the Temple of the Baboon, you should know you can't teleport or communicate with your followers without the baboon seal. We can throw down now, or you can haul your bandaged ass out of the temple and try to stop my brother."
The mummy's hands gripped tightly together. He could tell the half elf was not 100% certain of her facts, but she did speak the truth. Her words carried enough of a threat , that he faded from view instead of attacking. Surry half expected an attack , but in a moment he was gone. The half elf quickly rushed back to Fetch's side. The cleric's spells were still being dispelled by the Avatar of Myleka.
"Where were you? I thought Pixietrampler made off with you again?",joked Fetch at the half elf's expense even as he strained to cast a spell .
Tears flowed from Surry's eyes ,"We have to finish this fast...I might have saved us all, but doomed Agni in the process.", replied the wizard, knowing full well the consequences of her actions.