Mandalorian War

by ExtremeSoda

A young Mandalorian bounty hunter he took a job that was bigger than he thought and his own decision will make him mark by dogs who want his head because of it. But He will honor the deed that was intended by his employer for it's the Mandalorian code...This is the way.

16. The Covert

A few days have passed since that lovely night in the baths. Let's just say all 5 had a wonderful time together Alicia and Primm gave the Dark Queen and her Handmaiden a bit of a run for their money but the little competition they had resulted in a tie.

It was midday in Feoh now and in a large meeting room all the Shield Princesses were present alongside a few higher-ups in the Shield Kingdom like the General and a few nobles as well. Our Mandalorian is among the meeting but not actually partaking in it he's at the back watching it unfold.

From what Dredgen overheard so far that the large magical ports the Shield Kingdom were constructing in each city are still under way but after the Battlefront of Feoh it has set them back likely a few weeks maybe more. It'll be a long way before they become operational

Across the other cities have been Kuroinu activate but nothing major mostly on the western front of Eostia. Feoh, Ur, and Geofu have been calm so far after Vault's army lost a major battle, and activity from the Kuroinu has been low. And the Capital city Ken is relatively clam as well However on the eastern front of Eostia. Kuroinu's activity has been noticed frequently.

In Luu-Luu city Ansur there have been multiple cases of people partially Halfings doing strange things out of the ordinary. At first, it seemed nothing, they were in a daze of some sort, forgetting what they were just doing and nobody was getting harmed but as days passed a sudden change has been occurring frequently. Halflings were suddenly attacking one another in the streets or doing obscene acts with one another, and trying to mate with male strangers in broad daylight. And worst cases some Halflings have gone missing never to be seen. Those who they managed to bring in after whatever incident were in a lobotomized state they were unable to get any word from them whatsoever.

As of yet, it's unknown why Halfings has been acting this way or how. Luu-Luu and her people have been looking into the matter but they're at a wall as of now. The Halfing Sheild Princess believes her kind we're being under the influence of magic to do such acts. However, she's not very knowledgeable in the field of magic to help determine the cause which she has requested help from someone who's expertise in magic. Thankfully Celestine agreed to provide Luu-Luu with some help she's bringing a certain Grandmaster Witch to help solve this that will be arriving in Feoh in the next few days to help solve these bizarre cases happening in Asur

For some reason, Dredgen has a very strong feeling about who it might be and if it is her this will greatly help with Luu-Luu and the Sheild Kingdom but for another reason personally if this is the same Grandmaster Witch he knows of things for him might get a little intimate between each other. He hopes things will remain professional but he has his doubts

In Kaguya city Thorn there have been reports of Kuroinu outposts comprised of mercs, various demons, and insectoid bugs popping outside the city working together which is obviously strange the insectoids specifically. The Kuroinu working with the Demons because they can be somewhat bargain with but with insectoid bugs it's a different story. They almost have a hive mind-like structure. They would kill anything for food to provide for their nest even demons for them to suddenly work with the Kuroinu is bizarre.

It didn't make sense how Vault was able to convince the incestuous bugs to work for him. His mage Kin could've done something to them but that doesn't seem like his forte.

Kaguya has her people looking into the matter and they've been able to wipe out a few of the Kuroinu cells outside of Thorn before it becomes a problem for her city. But more just keep popping up out of nowhere but only the eastern front of Eosita

This is very concerning for the Shield Kingdom with the Kuroinu having insectoids among their ranks now has them worried. It'll bolster those Dogs' strength likely to attack Thron maybe. To help fend off an invasion Luu-Luu will allocate some of her cannons from her city Ansur to help forty Throns defenses.

Kaguya appreciated her colleague's help but In the back of her mind, there was someone she knows of who was able to somewhat control insectoids but quickly shook her head and pushed that thought out.

As for Rad well Klaus is telling the Shield Princesses what he was able to determine on what they found in the aftermath of the Battlefront of Feoh and it may be the key that turns the tide in the war against the Kuroinu

Klaus being the logistics type for the Shield Kingdom was able to quickly determine how the Kuroinu were able to obtain a large amount of supplies and equipment from out of nowhere.

"You believe someone within our own Kingdom is supplying those Dogs?" The one asking is Graves " Which explains how they used our own cannons against us in Feoh?.

"Yes, Father." Klaus answers with certainty in his voice

"How is that possible?" The General asks raising a brow "Did the Kuroinu perhaps steal some of our equipment"

Klaus waved his head no "We never got reports of our supply lines being raided by them Father nor if any of the equipment has gone missing. Which makes me believe that someone is supplying their war effort against us"

Almost everyone in the room was shocked by this. Some we're not like Alicia after Beastly betrayal she's been more aware of the possibility of turncoats among her Kingdom's people. Still, she and a few others are taking the news with a grain of salt.

"What makes you think someone is supplying those Dogs Klaus?" Claudia asks

"From what we found in the aftermath of the Battlefront and what the Mandalorian has told me what he did at the Black Citadel Vaults army would've never acquired a substantial amount of supplies and equipment without any of us noticing and without help"

"And you believe someone likely with nobility status is helping them?"

Klaus clenched his hand at the idea but he gave his answer "Given what we found? Yes. Someone who likely has many assets and connections to make it possible to supply the Kuroinu without us noticing."

Claudia and many others in the room snapped their tongues as this. Another turncoat among them but some aren't even surprised by this given what happened in Feoh

"Where is the Kuroinu getting these supplies then?" Claudia asks "It's not like they're getting them from out of thin air"

Klaus paused at his wife's question he looked at Maia for a moment before he took a deep breath "I believe the city, Rad is where they're getting supplies from "

"Rad?!" Maia erupted and shouted shocked that the Kuroinu is getting supplies from her city

Claudia and a few others turned to the Red Queen "Lady Maia's city?

"W-What makes you think the Kuroinu are getting their stuff from my city?" Maia asks sounding a bit agitated now "It's impossible for them to get such equipment there!

"Lady Maia," Klaus sounding composed and not surprised at the Red Queens' outburst "Rad as many of you already know is a merchant city of our Kingdom many of our goods come from there. Most merchant nobles in that city have many connections that make it possible to supply the Kuroinu with our own equipment unnoticed.

Maia winced in her seat Klaus does have a point most nobles are merchants that maintains the flow of goods in and out of Rad While she does her Shield Princess's duties she knows most of them but they only deal in common necessity like clothing, food, and such. Only a few higher-ups of Merchant Nobles are allowed to help transport and log weapons, armor, cannons anything military like the Shield Kingdom needs for their troops. And that it has to through the Merchant Guild Master to be finalized before it can get shipped to wherever it's needed

Dredgen listening in was impressed at Klaus's deduction he had a hutch that the Kuroinu were getting their supplies from Rad and likely from a noble. It seemed ideal and Vault is a clever one he'll admit he doesn't know if any of Shield Princesses knows this, that Rad is also a smuggling hub for contraband and other illegal can range from anything to spice to slaves. Vaults Army likely acquired some of them already.

"If that's the case here." Claudia spoke up. "Then I suggest we mount a force on Rad and stop whoever this traitor is supplying those Dogs"

"Now hold on a moment, Claudia." The General stopped his daughter-in-law " We can't be so hasty about this. For us to divert many resources and manpower on such a matter only if to find out it was all for nothing can result in a significant blow for us."

"But Father Kuroinu's activity has been low we can use this chance to strike back against them." Claudia said

"Even so, we can't let our guard down any move we make will give Vault a window of opportunity to strike against us. We need to focus on the war front."

Claudia clenched her fist Father-in-law makes a good point if they send a force and turn out for nothing the SHield Kingdom will be in jeopardy and worse one of their cities may fall into the Kuroinu's hands. But the Sheild Commander doesn't like the idea of leaving the matter unresolved.

"Are you saying we just ignore this and let some traitor in Rad continue to supply those Dogs?"

"I'm not saying we ignore this rather." Graves turns his attention to the Mandalorian which catches his eye " We sent in a professional to handle the matter"

Everyone turned their heads to the Mandalorian they were surprised. The General of the Shield Kingdom is recommending a freelancer?

"The Mandalorian?"

"Yes."

Dredgen was the most surprised at this he didn't expect someone like him would suggest him to do this task even his employer Celestine too was caught off guard by this

"General Graves." Celestine called him "Why are you suggesting Dredgen to handle this?"

"We cannot divert many of our own resources and time to investigate this and If we sent one of our own it'll tip off on whoever this traitor is that we're on to them. However if we sent in the Mandalorian instead they wouldn't suspect him given that he's not one of us. Plus what this warrior has accomplished here in Feoh and so far he's perfect for this kind of task. In fact, he may even make quick work of it.

Everyone paused at this some could see the Generals point from what the Mandalorian did he seemed ideal for it.

"You do make an excellent point General Graves." Celestine nodded her head

"Thank you Lady Celestine, however, there is one issue here."

"That is?"

The General looked at Dredgen "I am not the Mandalorian's employer I cannot request him to handle this task, but you are Your Highness."

Celestine and the others were again surprised so the General does know a bit about how a Mandalorian operates when working with clients. The Goddess then turns her attention to Dredgen

"Dredgen this may be a bit off for you but if I tasked you to handle this matter are you able to find who this supplier is?"

The Mandalorian nods his head "If that is what you wish for me to do then I'll do the task you requested. And I've done similar jobs like this before"

Celestine smiled at that as expected from him "Good. Then it's settled Dredgen will head to Rad and find this supplier and stop them. All in agreement?

All of the Shield Princesses apart from Maia who wasn't even paying attention nodded their head in approval so did a few of the nobles.

The General looked the most pleased by this. Dredgen was a bit off by it he didn't expect the Graves of all people would recommend him to resolve this matter but he brushed it off.

"Is there anything you need to help you on this task Dredgen?" Celestine asks

"I do I need Maia and her company's help for this."

"What!?"M-me!? Why!?"

The Red Queen rose up from her seat and was shocked at what she heard. She couldn't believe it Dredgen was not surprised at her reaction

"That is your city Maia you know that place better than anyone else here in this room and people will likely be willing to talk to you than me a Mandalorian," Dredgen explains

Maia was gritting her teeth at this, this Mandalorian really wants to work together?! She looked at the others none were surprised at her reaction as well

"You really expect me and him to work together?!"

"Maia." Claudia spoke up in a stern matter getting her attention " I know you're not fond of the Mandalorian but your stubbornness to not believe Vault and his Kuroinu is at war with our Kingdom needs to stop. If you can't accept the facts you'll fall victim to him"

"But he-"

"Maia!" Claudia spoke in a loud matter "Are you forgetting Vault had one of his Field Commanders Derreck Rondo lead the invasion of Feoh that resulted in many of our citizens being killed or raped by those Dogs and Demons. Alicia and Primm would've fallen victim to their Sex Empire if the Mandalorian had not been there to help them."

"Claudia is right Maia." Alicia spoke up agreeing with the Shield Commander. "Are you just gonna pretend nothing happened here in Feoh? Primm was almost captured before the battlefront and many of my people have suffered become of them."

"I-I"

Maia stutters in her voice she can't deny what she saw when arriving in Feoh after the Battlefront. Many people were hurt and traumatized by the company she was once part of and the one who gave the order for invasion was by the man she looked up to.

Everyone in the room stared at the Red Queen none at surprised by this. Celestine was still disheartened by her friends in denial she can understand it but she needs her to be strong for them

"Maia." The Goddess spoke up "I know this is still hard for you but you and Dredgen must work together."

The Red Queen stood silent, she gazed at the Mandalorian for a moment remembering what he said to her in the alley back at the capital she closed her eyes clenching her fist.

"Ugh..Fine."

Dredgen stared at Maia trying to accept the truth but could tell she still didn't believe that Kuroinu was a war with the Shield Kingdom. if she doesn't, it'll not end well for her. Her denial may be a problem later on when they'll be working together in Rad but the Mandalorian had to work with worst before.

The Goddess nodded her head at Maia's answer she then turned to Dredgen

"Dredgen, find whoever is supplying the Kuroinu and stop them."

"As you wish. What are my details once I find whoever is supplying the Kuroinu? Do you wish for me to bring them warm…or bring them in cold?"

Nearly everyone in the room was a bit off by his question what does he mean that? Olga and Chloe on the other hand were the only ones who knew what it meant and had a smug face.

"Um, preferably warm, Alive, Dredgen." Celestine being specifically to the Mandalorian

Dredgen nods his head at this. It's been some time since he's been to Rad He has been to that city once to capture a bounty that fled there and let's just say his first time being in that city he left somewhat of an impression

Finding this supplier will take a lot of work but he knows if he does find and stop them this will deal a huge significant blow to the Kuroinu war effort. It'll be cutting the throat of the Dog bleeding them dry of supplies. This will likely force Vault to take risks and divert manpower to elsewhere secure supplies if he wants to keep his army fed and well-equipped. Attrition in warfared can turn the tide in any battle

"That concludes our meeting everyone," Celestine said. "Thank you all for coming you may all leave this room."

"If that's all we need to discuss then I must take my leave and return to the Battlefront." Graves stood up and respectfully bowed and took his leave so did many nobles who departed the room too.

As the last noble left the meeting room a few of the Shield Princess let out an audible sigh feeling a bit worn out by the meeting.

"Even after our first victory against the Kuroinu, there's still much we have to do. Alicia said sounding exhausted and a bit overwhelmed

Primm placed a hand on her cousin's shoulder easing her she too understands how she feels the Shield Kingdom still has a lot of work to do

"I thank you for coming here, everyone." Celestine said " For now let's all get some rest.

"As much as we all would love to get some rest Your Highness" Claudia speaking up "but before we end this meeting. There is another bit of information you all would like to hear. Particularly tying to our Mandalorian here

Everyone turned to Dredgen

"Me?"

"Dredgen?"

"Him?"

"Yes." Claudia nods her head "As many of you know After the Battlefront, I sent patrols outside of Feoh to determine what the Kuroinu left behind to help us discover their next move. However, one of them got ambushed by them thankfully they all returned safely with no injuries

"What does this have to do with Dredgen Claudia?" Celestine asks

"They've encountered a small group of Mandalorians"

Everyone in the room's eyes widen to hear that. Other Mandaloirans? Dredgen was the most surprised at this information too

"Mandalorians?"

"Yes."

Celestine took a moment to process this. Other Mandaloirans were spotted and they're near Feoh?

"What did they do?" The Goddess asks

"They aided my patrol but after that, they just stared at each other for a moment and disappeared into the forest." Claudia answers "My patrol didn't pursue them, still confused at what happened. Apart from them, we're the only one in this room who knows about it."

"Lady Claudia" Dredgen suddenly spoke up "Are you certain it was Mandaloirans your patrol encountered?"

The Shield Commander looked at the Mandaloirna and could tell he was very interested in this bit of information that seemed natural he would be.

"They said they all had armor looking similar to yours and some weapons as well"

Dredgen stood silent if this was true then it was good for him for his quest but also it seemed strange why would his Mandalorian brethresn just expose themselves like that to aid a shield Knight patrol unless they wanted to be spotted by them? If they purposely did it then why now?

Claudia looks at the other Shield Princesses

"We all are aware of what 1 Mandalorian was capable of. That is why I'm recommending we should make contact with this group."

"Make contact with these other Mandaloirans?"

"Are you serious?"

"Yes" Claudia being firm about it "If we have more of Sir Dredgen's kind on our side it'll bolster our war effort tremendously."

"Claudia." Celestine spoke up " Why didn't you bring this up with the other's presents? Surely they would like to know about this information too"

"It was... necessary your Highness." Claudia said " As all of you know some higher-up nobles are still not fond of the idea of a Mandalorian aiding us even after Sir Dredgen helped defend Feoh. If I had brought this up it'll be an endless debate and we'll be wasting time."

Celestine can tell Claudia was serious about it and if she had mentioned this to the others she too can see that happening if the others find out about this.

The Shield Commander looks at the Goddess

"Your Highness. Apart from us forming an Armesitce with the Dark Queen, we need to take all the allies we can get if we are able to make contact with this group of Mandalorians and have them join our cause or form a contract with them they would be a substantial help and if we're lucky they may be part of a clan or tribe that can help us. If we sent a battalion of our own we surely can find them they are likely willing to talk to us since we have a Sir Dredgen under contract with you"

"Claudia does make a good point." Kaguya spoke up agreeing "Our forces are stretched thin as it is and with our portals since under construction it'll be some time before they can even be used. Having more Mandaloirans will be beneficial to our side"

"I agree with Kaguya." Alicia agrees as well "Many of my Shield Knights saw how capable 1 Mandalorian was during the Battlefront of Feoh myself and Primm included and if they have a tribe located on the western front of our Kingdom they can be a great help against the Kuroinu here on this region

"Having more Mandaloirans on our side?" Luu-Luu spoke up with a grin on face "That can be even more cooler!

"I'm afraid this is not that simple," Dredgen spoke up

Every Shield Princess turned their head to the Mandalorian

"Wait what?"

"What do you mean Sir Dredgen?"Claudia asks confused

"I'm not saying you shouldn't make contact with these other Mandaloirans I'm advising you to be cautious when doing so. Dredgen explains "I don't know why these Mandaloirans aided your patrol but leaving into the forest and not saying a word to them or asking to be compensated for their efforts is strange."

Everyone in the room looked confused at Dredgen

"Why do you find it strange?" Claudia asks

"You really think they just aided your patrol out of the kindness of their hearts? No, I think they did it for a reason."

The Shield Commander squirted her eyes at the Mandalorian "You believe they aided my patrol on purpose? To be exposed?" To be seen by them?

"Most likely"

"Why would they do that?"

"They likely know your patrol reported this to you Lady Claudia and that you would discuss it with the other Shield Princesses of their findings on what to do. In this case, you want to make contact with them."

"You think they're drawing us out? "Alicia asks

"What better way to get the Shield Commanders' attention? Dredgen asks "A group of Mandaloirans has certainly caught your interest and so have the others here that most of you want to find them"

"We would like to form a contract with them as you did with Lady Celestine" Claudia explains

"Again not as simple" Dredgen said

"Why is that?"

"I chose to form a contract with Celestine to aid your war because it was of my own volition. Dredgen explains "Not every Mandalorian or tribe is gonna be fine with the idea of aiding the Shield Kingdoms' war against the Kuroinu like me even if it's a job to them.

Kaguya then stepped in"Celestine has told me that one of your Mandalorian creeds code is to aid one of their brethren in whatever quest they're in however they can. Shouldn't that be enough of a reason for them to aid you?"

Dredgen was a bit surprised Kaguya knew that guess she'd been looking more into his culture but pushing that aside "By creed, yes Lady Kaguya I can request the aid of other Mandalorians on my quest but it solely depends on them if they want to or not. Dredgen answers "And if there is likely a covert nearby and you decide to bring an entire battalion of Shield Knights just to find them it'll be a sign of aggression and will likely get fired upon"

Claudia raised a brow at what Dredgen said "They wouldn't take our presence as a sign of aggression."

"There was a large assault force of Kuroinu outside this city a couple of weeks ago and you wouldn't think of it as a sign of aggression? Dredgen asks

The Shield Commander paused at this question and gave it some more thought

"Ok I see your point"

"Look in any case if you intend to seek this group of Mandaloirans and if they spot us before any of us do they'll likely do something to make us stop approaching. Dredgens said "Best case scenario they only did it to get our attention nothing more."

"And what's the worst case?" Luu-Luu asks sounding curious

"One of us actually getting shot or worse. Hopefully not a with disintegrator weapon type"

All the Shield Princesses had a grimace look on their faces they all knew what he meant by that

"That's not a comforting thought Dredgen." Alicia said sounding a bit worried

"That's the idea." Dredgen said " I advise to send an envoy but this is your decision to make on how you wish to approach them. if you want to attempt to make contact with these other Mandalorians with me acting as mediator of some sort to hopefully gain a chance to speak with them then I'm obliged to do so.

Claudia stared at Dredgen she understood his caution about this given he is a Mandalorian himself and his insight about them to draw them out is not comforting. From what she knows little about them this could be a trap but as Commander of the Shield Kingdom she knows she must take risks such as these they can't let this opportunity to gain allies such as Mandalorians go to waste.

"Your caution is noted Sir Dredgen" Claudia said " but sending an envoy will likely not be enough for them to talk to us.

Dredgen didn't say anything about her decision he just respectfully nodded his head to her saying 'very well'

The Sheild Commanders then look at the Goddess

'Your Highness with your permission I request Sir Dredgen to tag along with my Shield Knights and me for this task"

"Granted" Celestine nods her head in approval "Take whoever you need to help you on this"

"Thank you." The Shield Commander then looked at the Red Queen. "Maia you and your colleagues will be joining us"

"M-Me?" Maia was startled at what she heard "Why do you need us for?

"Given that Mandaloirians are known to be the freelancer types it seems fitting you and your lot use to share the same profession. Claudia explains "And this will be a good chance for you both to get acquainted since you'll be working together soon."

The Red Queen twitched a little as she glanced at the Mandalorian as much as she didn't want to work with someone like him Maia couldn't really refuse " Ugh..Fine."

"I'm coming as well Claudia!" Alicia spoke up.

"Alicia?"

"These other Mandaloirans are near Feoh and as leader of this city I think I should come too as well." Alicia said sounding determined.

Claudia stared at the Blond Knight for a moment before smiling at her commitment "Very well Alicia you will join."

Alicia nods her head pleased at this.

"Oh!Oh! I want to come too!" Luu-Luu eagerly shouted raising her hand in the air. "It'll be very cool to see more Mandloiarnas and what kind of cool toys they have!

"Luu-Luu this is not some kind of field trip this is a serious matter" Claudia said sounding a bit annoyed a the Halfling's childish behavior

"Oh come on Claudia if you're gonna find these Mandalorians you're likely gonna need all the help and given what Dredgen said, they'll likely well attack us or something it's best to have me and my people on this task!

Claudia stared at Luu-Luu for a moment she did make a good point her Halfing kind is known for her strength and given what she had seen from her spar with Dredgen she certainly gave the Mandalorian a challenge. She doesn't like to bring more of her colleagues on this than need be but the Shield Commander will need all the help she can get on this.

"Very well you can come along Luu-Luu." Claudia said ".

"Aw yeah! This is gonna be great!" Luu-Luu cheered

"But I expect you to behave"

"Awww. "Luu-Luu immediately frowned hearing that pouty her cheeks

Claudia ignored Luu-Luus frowning She then turned her attention to the Mandalorian

"Sir Dredgen since you are a Mandalorian anything or one whom you think we should take with us?"

Dredgen tilted his head giving it some thought there's one first who comes into mind, particularly, a dark elf

"If that's the case I suggest we bring the Dark Queen and her Handmaiden with us as well." Dredgen answers

Everyone looked at Olga who was a bit surprised also

"The Dark Queen?"

"Dredgen." Celestine calls him "May I ask why you wish to bring Olga on this task?"

The Mandalorian looked at Celestine she looked relatively calm but could sense the Goddess's aura emitting a dark shadow looming over her. It's very off-putting to see from her he can guess she a bit annoyed for wanting to bring the Dark Queen with them but Dredgen kept his professionalism

"Other than you Your Highness Olga knows a great deal of my peoples' culture and ways as well. She understands how we operate"

"I too as well Dredgen." Celestine said in a calm matter "But why do you think you need Olga for this?

"She is the Dark Queen." Dredgen answers "And she's not affiliated with the Shield Kingdom and my kind consider her in high regard"

"Hmph he does make a good point Celestine," Olga spoke up with a smile. You know how Mandaloirans are and given my history with them before the Great Purge it'll be very beneficial having me along on this expedition and will likely ease any hostility on both sides"

Celestine stared at Olga who still had a smug look. As much as she doesn't want to admit it the Dark Queen does make an excellent point if she were the one to come it'll likely not end well for both sides. She annoyedly sighed at this

"Very well Olga and her Handmaiden Chloe will join you on this task. Claudia, you are responsible for their safety"

"Yes my Lady."

Olga chuckled before looking at the Mandalorian "Well Dredgen looks like we're going on a little adventure together again.

---

The very next day it's early dawn the sun hasn't even come up yet. Claudia was very determined to see this through so were the others apart from Maia who reluctantly agreed to come. The Shield Princesses were bringing their best on this task given that is a very delicate and dangerous matter that could go wrong very quickly

Dredgen strapped his spearbolt onto his horse's saddle and looked at the large number of Sheild Knights, Halfings and the Reds Queen colleagues outside the main gate. He couldn't help but sigh at this bring this larger number is ill advise but this is how Claudia wishes to approach.

"I got a bad feeling about this" The Mandalorian muttered under his breath

"You seem worried Dredgen."

Turning his head he sees the Dark Queen alongside her Handmaiden approaching him.

Dredgen sighed again earning a chuckle from the Dark Queen

"Hmph, you really think your kind purposely reveals themselves?"

"They wouldn't just do that without a reason" Dredgen replied back

Olga hummed at this "Hmmm..Maybe they wanted to see the Wolf will take the bait."

Dredgen stared at Olga raising a brow underneath his helmet "You believe they're drawing me out and not the Shield Kingdom?

Olga just smiled at Dredgen "Well your exploits have spread all across Eostia sending fear to those Kuroinu before when we arrived here in Feoh your feats are already known at the capital. And you seem greatly interested in finding these other Mandaloirans"

"That is true" Dredgen agrees " but Whatever the case it is this may be beneficial for all of us.

"I can agree. I know how capable 1 Mandalorian is but with an entire tribe of them hmph..well you know Dredgen." Olga said with a smile on her

"Right…"

"I'm curious, when was the last time you saw one of your kind? Olga asks

"Apart from my own covert? It's been years since I visited a different one. The last I saw another Mandalorian was on a few jobs I did together with."

"Ah I see Well, I hope we do find these other Mandaloirans though I'm expecting we won't receive a warm welcome if we do find them."

"At least I'm not the only one here"

Olga again chuckled until she began to frown a little "Still It's a shame Celestine didn't appoint you as my bodyguard on this expedition. I know Chloe and I would be safe in your care."

Dredgen stared at the Dark Queen "Although I am not appointed as your escort I will do my best to keep you away from harm but I don't think I'll be needed since you have your Handmaiden Chloe to protect you."

"Ah how kind of you to say about to my Handmaiden. It seems Chloe really really appreciates your word" Olga said as smugly smiled noticing her Handmaiden blushing a little

"I know Chloe is a capable warrior."

"I can see you 3 are having a nice chat together" Just then the Goddess Celestine approaches the group

"Ah, Celestine here to see Dredgen off?" Olga asks

"That is correct Olga I am his employer it's important that I do so.

The Dark Queen didn't say anything she just crossed her arms together and smiled at the Goddess which annoyed her a little. But Celestine remained composed she cleared her throat and turned her attention to Dredgen

"Dredgen I know this of great importance to you given that there's a chance to meet more of your kind but I want you to be careful."

"I always am Your Highness." Dredgen nods

Celestine smiled "Hmph..I know and I will be praying for all of your safe return and hopefully, you all will bring new Mandalorian allies.

"I cannot guarantee more of my kind will help but we'll do what it takes to convince them"

"Good." Celestine smiled happy to hear she backed away from him but just as the Goddess was about to leave she stopped and turns her attention to the Dark Queen

"And Olga…do refrain from making any advancements towards Dredgen while he's working."

That was all the Goddess said as she began to walk away. The 3 the watched the Goddess for a bit before Dredgen turned his head to the Dark Queen and said

"You're… not gonna do what she said are you?""

Olga just chuckled at his question "Hmph you should know by now Dredgen."

---

Many hours had passed since they left Feoh the sun was up but it was still morning. The Shield Princesses and their colleagues were feeling a bit tense about this as they continued marching. The Shield Commander was the most likely of all given that is a huge gamble she's taking. Finding this group of Mandaloirans is not what Claudia is concerned about, it's how it'll happen and given what Dredgen said the worst case for them is getting shot, and hopefully not with a disintegrator-type weapon, It's still not a comforting thought.

Claudia gripped her horse's reins she had to do this for the sake of her Kingdom and people she looked at Dredgen who was on her left side across from her she then turned her attention to the Red Queen who was riding next to her

"Maia one of your colleagues informed me that you've met with Sir Dredgen's tribe yes?"

The Red Queen was startled at her question "Hm? Yeah? Why?

"Well I am curious what they were like?"

"What were they like?"

"Yes." Claudia nods her head "It'll help us how we should act properly if we do find these other Mandalorians. It'll help ease tension on both sides"

The Red Queen lowers her head humming " Hmm..I don't think I can be much help"

"Any information you have can help Maia." Claudia assuring her

Maia paused for a moment thinking. She glanced at Dredgen her first impression of Mandalorian wasn't exactly the most welcoming to make a good impression for her but it wasn't necessarily a bad experience so to speak.

"His people are a bit... strange to say."

"How so?"

"When I came to his covert I knew I wasn't welcome by them but that guy vouched me to his tribe leader"

Claudia raised a brow of interest at this "Sir Dredgen vouched for you to his tribe leader and you met them?"

"Yeah when he did his tribe leader welcomed me there, and told me I would be safe among them. She was also there Armorer she was the one who forged the Beskar armor he's wearing now."

"She? A woman I see." Claudia again was intrigued by this and amazed so that's how Dredgen got his Beskar armor created "…How did his leader act?"

"Hmm..It was hard to say. She spoke in a weird cryptic way but…the way she did kept his people together"

"How so?"

"When I was there one of them didn't take too kindly my presents he called Dredgen a coward for him to bring me to their sanctum. He tried to harass me but he stepped in before he could and…d-defend me"

"Sir Dredgen defended you?" Again the Shield Commander was surprised at this

Maia blushed a little "Y-Yeah..he did. Both fought for a brief moment using knives on one another he got a good slash across his chest plate but before it could escalate but stopped when their leader spoke up reminding them and the others that the Shield Kingdom is no longer an Empire and their ways

"What did she say to them?"

The Red Queen took a deep breath She remembered each word the Armorer said to them "When one chooses to walk the way of the Mandalore they are both hunter and prey. How can one be a coward who walks that this way of life?"

Claudia paused at this "I see that's very interesting to hear Maia Do you think this group will act the same if we do encounter them?

"I'm not really sure Claudia his people were a bit strange perhaps that's just them but I don't know with these others if we do find them.

The Shield Commander hummed at this "Hmm..I see thank for you sharing."

...

It was midday now and they'd all arrived in a small clearing in the woods. There were signs that a fight had happened there strangely there were bodies. Claudia whipped her horse reins to make it stop and said

"Halt!"

Everyone stopped when they heard their Commander's order. Claudia looks at everyone

This is where the patrol encounters these Mandaloirans Everyone disembarks and spreads out. Claudia orders "Look for anything that will lead us to these Mandaloirans but do be careful.

"Yes Commander!"

Every Shield Knight got off their horses and began to search around so did the Shield Princesses. Alicia and Iris alongside a few of their own began to look in one area while Luu-Luus group of Halfings and a few of Maias forces did the same in a different area

With Everyone beginning the search Claudia looks over at Dredgen

"Sir Dredgen with your skills do you think you'll be able to find anything that'll lead us to more of your kind?"

"I am not certain Lady Claudia but if they were drawing us they would've left something obvious for us to find"

"Notted "Claudia nods her head "My forces and I will keep a lookout for anything. Go help with the others in the search"

"As you wish."

Dredgen got off his horse It was time for him to get to work he walked where there was dry blood on the ground ahead of him. When he got close he kneeled down and observed the surrounding area to see if anything or anyone dragged them had left some tracks but there was nothing from what he could see in the naked eye. He tapped the side of his helmet ear cap to give him a little help his visor turned blue giving him thermal sight to spot any heat signature.

"Find anything?" Maia asks approaching from behind him

Dredgen was caught off to hear Maia of all people approach him he didn't expect her to do that but brushed it off and answers

"Nothing so far".

"Maybe an animal came by and took the bodies?" Maia suggested as she looked around

"No we would've seen a trail of blood if they dragged one." Dredgen replies still looking "No drag marks or footprints either…I have a very bad feeling about this"

"Hmph worried we're walking right into an ambush? "Maia asks in an amusing way

"We're basically are now." Dredgen bluntly said as he stood up, still scanning the ground

As he was Maia watched at how focused Dredgen was she could almost feel it from him. He was very serious and professional she felt somewhat impressed seeing him like this doing his job very dedicatedly. Something she rarely saw during her time as a freelancer.

"Can I ask you a question?" Maia spoke

"Asks what?" Dredgen reply

"W-Why did you defend me? Back at your covert?"

"Why are you asking that now?" Dredgen confused by her questions

Maia twitched a little "I-I just wanna know why you did it."

Dredgen paused for a moment but gave his answer "The Armorer said you'll be safe among our covert."

"…That's it?" Maia titled her head confused She expected more to it

"Yes." Dredgen said "She gave you her word and she knew something like that would happen with you being there."

"Because you were there?"

"Yes. I help honor her words on her behalf."

Maia stared at Dredgen for a bit before she turned her head away "I-I see…well thanks for doing that."

Dredgen lifted his head when he heard that he slowly turned his head to the Red Queen

"That's… something I did not expect to hear from you."

The Red Queen twitched "W-What!? I c-can show some gratitude too you know!"

The Mandaoiran stared at the Red Queen he almost wanted to chuckle seeing her like this so she could be like this. He refrained from laughing he had a little feeling he'd only agitate her further but there was something he was curious about too.

"What are your thoughts of us so far?" Dredgen suddenly asks

"Huh?" Maia blinked when she heard his question

"This will be technically your 2nd time seeing other Mandaloirans besides me." Dredgen said, "And I'm curious what are your thoughts of us."

Maia paused lowering her head and giving it some thought. Her impression of Mandalorians wasn't exactly a great start and the way his covert acted was still a bit strange to her but she remembered what the Armorer said to her to observe and make her assessment

"Well… given what I have seen so far from you and your covert it's too early for me to say." Maia said sounding uncertain

"But?" Dredgen asks feeling there is gonna be one

"But…Despite what little I've seen from your odd cultural ethics…it's…it's not bad I suppose."

"Really?" Dredgen surprised at her answers "Not as bad as the Kuronius?

"Don't push it." Maia said annoyed at the amused tone in the Mandalorian's voice

"Hmph."

Dredgen actually let out a chuckle to Maia's annoyance but luckily she didn't throw a fit and brushed it off. She let out a sigh and waved her head a bit before looking back at the Mandalorian

"So if we do find more of your kind do you think they'll help us?

"I don't know, " Dredgen said "They'll likely hear us out but them helping us? I have my doubts"

"I thought you said Mandaloirans helped one another."

"We do but it's the individual choice if they want to"

"But aren't they bonded to your creeds code to help you?"

Dredgen chuckled a little "Hmph…I am not Mandalore to call upon others to my aid"

"Mandalore?" Maia raised a brow when he said that

"It's a title among my people that leads us. like a king or queen so to speak." Dredgen briefly explains

"Oh? You have that kind of thing in your culture?" Maia was surprised to that she didn't expect his culture to have that "Then who is Mandalore now?"

"Like I know who-"

Maia raised a brow when she noticed the Mandalorians suddenly stop in his voice he titled his head looking over her shoulder behind her

"What?"

"Get down!"

Without any hesitation, Dredgen pushed Maia out of the way

*BANG* *PING*

The moment he did Dredgen felt a powerful shot to his helmet dome it made a loud ping noise. The force of the shot was so hard that it knocked him to the ground. Everyone's eyes widen to see the Mandalorian falling

"Dredgen!" The Shield Princesses and Dark Elves shouted in worry when they saw him on the ground

"Defensive formation!" Claudia quickly ordered her forces

Right away Claudius and other Shield Princess forces gathered around forming circles those with shields raised up as many fell behind them to take cover

Claudia and others were shocked by this she didn't know if it was the Kuroinu that were ambushing them or worse Mandaloirans either way she had to act quickly. She peered over one of the knights who was holding a shield and saw the Mandalorian not moving but appeared to be alive from what she could tell and Maia was near him still in a daze.

Fearing the worst she couldn't them leave in the open and luckily Alicia and Iris and their bridge were the closest to them

"Alicia go to Maia and Sir Dredgen!" Claudia ordered as she was the closest to them "We'll keep an eye out!

"Yes, Claudia! Iris with me!"

"Yes, my lady!"

Without any hesitation, Alicia and Iris alongside a few of their Shield Knight brigade follow.

As that was happening The Red Queen sitting on the ground her eyes widened in shock as she was perplexed and in a bit of a daze at what just happened. She looked at Dredgen who was in front of her on the ground not moving. It took a few seconds for her to realize what he had done. He protected her. He took a bullet for her. She couldn't believe it

Just then She felt someone on her shoulder snapping out of it it was Iris

"Maia! Maia! Are you harmed?"

"H-Huh?" Maia blinked "Yeah I'm good."

Just as she answered Maia noticed Iris and her colleagues surrounded them with shields protecting them. While Alicia was checking on Dredgen and by the look on her face she was deeply worried for him

"Dredgen! Dredgen!" Alicia shakes him fearing the worst "Are you okay!? Answer me!"

There was a moment of silence until she heard him groaning.

"Ugh…Im good..beskar held up"

Alicia let out a sigh of relief at this she feared the worst but should've known better that his Beskar armor could hold up most attacks. She lifts her head looking around

"Where did that shot come from?!"

"Remain on guard everyone!"

Our Mandalorian shaking his head,he slowly sat up placing a head on top of his helmet but before he got a moment to regain his bearing he saw a few metal balls landing on the ground around them to everyone's confusion. They were all blinking white

"Cover your eyes!" Dredgen shouted knowing what they are

The SHield Princesses did what the Mandalorian said without question however few of their colleagues weren't quick enough to understand why

*BANG*

A flash of light and a loud ringing noise erupted many of the Shield Knights screamed at the blast causing them to break formation. The horses screamed in fear at the blast causing them to run away

Dredgen was quick enough to use his arm to cover his visor from the flash but still felt the loud bang ringing in his ear

Everyone was in disarray a Knight with a shield in her hand in a daze tried to collect herself but she then felt a powerful kick to her shield knocking her to the ground.

At that very moment, A group of Mandaloirans landed 8 of them to be exact all had different variants of armor and colors in the center of the field catching those who were not afflicted by the flash bombs

The Shield Princesses and their colleagues stood silent their eyes widened to see, other Mandalorians besides Dredgen they couldn't believe it they found them but before they even processed it the leader who appeared to be female to them did a tactical hand signal. And soon the other Mandalorian moved out and engaged the Shield Knights and princesses in combat.

Claudia witnessed the whole thing she couldn't believe it the Mandaloirans were ambushing them! She watches her Shield Princesses colleagues fighting Mandaloirans who choose to engage them

Many of her forces were still in disarray and were being taken down in mere seconds by them alone. She couldn't believe a small number of Mandlaoirans were taking down many of her troops.

The Sheild Commander then noticed the leader who did the hand signal was staring at her now. Claudia almost got a chill but remained firm the leader was approaching her with a sword in hand.

"W-Wait!" Claudia pleaded as she placed a hand on her sword preparing for the worst "We're here to ta-"

Before she could even finish the leader Claudia reacted blocking her strike and before she knew it she was engaging with the leader

Dredgen still on the ground still feels his head ringing after just getting shot in the helmet and the effects of the flash bomb are making it worse. But he quickly endured it he clenched his fist and shook his head finally collecting himself.

He stood up and quickly saw his kinds was engaging with each of the Shield Princesses and their groups and by the look of it they were giving the Shield Knights a bit of a hand full. 2 were fighting each group they were outnumbered by them but they had to skills to make it even fight for them. He's almost not surprised at this

Dredgen turns his head to the Shield commander who is defending herself against the leader. Claudia was holding up she wasn't trying to fight with the leader but was slightly getting overwhelmed by the leader's unorthodox attacks. It's a style she never fought against before. This is getting out of hand if his kind ends up harming or even worse killing the Shield Commander of the Shield Kingdom it will not do well for him and everyone else he has to stop this and now!

Dredgen fired his rope launcher and it caught the leader's wrist who was just about to go another swing at Claudia. His intervention surprised them both. The leader looked back at our Bounty Hunter for a moment she tilted her head. She didn't say a word she was resisting his pull for a moment however she let herself get pulled by our Mandalorian on purpose to his surprise.

As she was about to get closer to Dredgen she used her jetpack to give her boost to knee him in the head but our Mandaloiran expected that. Just as she was about to hit him Dredgen caught her legs carrying her for a moment before slamming her to the ground.

The leader let out a groan that caused her to let go of her sword. Dredgen on top of her now needed to make her stop but before he could even say she grabbed his ankles tuning and flipped him on the ground and she on top of him now.

However, Dredgen was quick to react he managed to kick off the leader and over him. Both were resilient they quickly got up and turned around our Mandaloiran drew out his gun and to his surprise, his kind did not in fact she didn't even pull out any weapons. She had both her hands up open. She was surrendering to him. Just like that?

Our Mandalorian stood there confused by this why wasn't she trying to fight him or why hadn't she pulled out her gun he clearly sees it on her holster hip

"Enough!"

The leader shouted immediately her subordinate stopped engaging with the Shield Knights mid-fight when they heard the order however they still had their weapons in hand.

Claudia and the others many of they were shocked at what just happened they all turned on the leader and on Dredgen who was still pointing his gun at his own kind

"Easy now brother. Stand down."

Dredgen did not; he still had his weapon pointing at her. The leader chuckled at this she seemed glad he didn't

"Lower your weapons, everyone. Stand down." The leader orders

Right away her subordinate began holstering their weapons raising both their hands up showing they were surrounding so to speak however on the Shield Knights' side everyone was still tense and on guard confused at what was going on

"Hmph…The Wolf has finally arrived." The leader said "We've been expecting you brother"

Dredgen didn't say a word only tilting his head so they were here for him not the Shield Knight like Olga predicted. It doesn't matter, the situation here was getting calm the Shield Knights were slowly easing up as well. Our Bounty Hunter slowly aims his gun up away from the leader but still being cautious

"Expecting!?" Just then Claudia shouted as she came from behind Dredgen who was likely furious at what just happened" You really think we would believe that after ambushing us?!"

"Apologize for the ambush Claudia Levantine, " The leader said "But we didn't expect this many would come with the Wolf and we never intended to kill any of your colleagues they were only…disarmed."

Claudia raised a brow as she looked at those who were taken down by these other Mandaloirans and to her none of them were killed. They were a bit bruised up but nonetheless alive so the leader was speaking the truth

"Are these the same Mandalorians the patrol encountered?" Dredgen asks Claudia

"No the ones they did had black and red armor apart from one that was white and red.

"I can assure you that the group your patrol encountered is one of us." The Leader answered "Unfortunately they were needed elsewhere and our leader sent us instead. We almost got tired of waiting."

"You're all from a covert then? Are you?" Dredgen asks

"That is correct Brother"

"If you were waiting for us then why go that far to ambush us?" Claudia asks "You could've just approached us rather than attacked us."

The leader stared at Claudia before chuckling at the Shield Commander's question

"Hmph….It wouldn't been fun if we had"

"F-Fun!?"

Claudia twitched at what she heard and was utterly appalled some of the others were too. They attacked them because it was fun?! But before she could lash out Dredgen moved his arm in front of the Shield Commander to stop her

"Easy Lady Claudia…I told you something like this would happen."

Claudia paused she remembered what Dredgen said this was her fault for not taking his advice she deeply sighed The Shield Commander cleared her throat, calming herself as she did Dredgen looked back at his brethren

"You've been expecting us? Then your covert leader knows why we came here.?"

"Our leader suspected the Shield Kingdom would send the Wolf alongside a few of your Shield Knights and a Shield Princess as an emissary of sorts after spotting us. To hopefully make contact with us " The leader explains "But To send 4 Princesses and also the the Dark Queen and her Handmaiden well…this rather unexpected. But no matter our leader expects the Wolf and his Shield Allies to come by our little sanctum to have a discussion together

"Your leader wishes to speak with us?" Claudia spoke up "Then you will take us to your covert?"

"We will, however, The leader looks around at the many Shield Knights here "We will not take you to our covert with this many of your knights and colleagues.

"What?"

"If you wish to see our covert you must forgo most of your forces." The leader demades as she looks at the other Shield Princesses " Same goes for the others. You may only bring those you can trust preferably your best warriors."

Claudia was perplexed by this does she really expect them to withdraw her forces after ambushing them she could not accept such terms.

"I will not dismiss my forces after you all ambushed us. Do you really expect me to comply with such things?"

The Leader didn't seem bothered by Claudia's words "Then we will not take you and your colleague to our covert."

"Excuse me?"

"That is the condition I'm stating here." The leader said sounding firm "If you truly wish for us to take you there then you must withdraw most of your forces. Otherwise, you all came here for nothing"

Claudia twitched she can't be serious!?

"Easy Lady Claudia." Dredgen trying to calm the Shiled Commander again "Do what they say and they'll take us to their covert."

"They really expect us to let go most of our focus after they just ambushed us?"

"If they wanted us dead they would've used more than just flash bombs and I did warn you all something like that would happen"

Claudia clicks her tongue she doesn't like the idea of sending most of her forces away to visit a covert that is hidden deep in the woods but if this only way to gain an audience with these Mandaloiran's leader then she must take the risk. She sighed she looked at one of her knights and said

"Return to Feoh and send word to her Highness If we're not back in the next week or so…tell her the others to…prepare for the worst."

"Yes, My Lady." One of Claudia Knight nodded her head

The leader looked pleased at this. "Glad we're at an understanding. Gathering your forces We will escort you all to covert we will depart once you're all ready."

The leader respectfully nodded her head to them she and her forces gathered together and let the Wolf and his Shield Allies

Claudia let out a big sigh when the leader was away she couldn't believe what had just happened and more shocking to her that 8 Mandaloirans were able to take down many of her forces while they had the numbers on them.

"Well that could've gone worse," Dredgen said

The Shield Commander waved her head sighing again. "Are you okay Sir Dredgen? You took a powerful shot to the head."

"I'm good" Dredgen assures. "Heads still ringing a little but not enough to cause an issue"

Claudia nods her head. "Good take this opportunity to recuperate while my forces get ready.

"As you wish"

...

It took a while for the Shield Princesses to gather their forces and who would come along with them to see this Mandalorian covert. Many of their knights were bruised up from the ambush fortunately no injuries that a healing mage wouldn't be needed. As the Dredgen looked at his kind who were patiently waiting for them. He felt glad to see more of his own kind apart from his own covert knowing that there were still more of them here in Eosita. Still getting shot by his own in the head is not exactly a great way to greet one of their own even by Mandalorian standards then again getting shot upon is nothing new to our Bounty Hunter.

"Hey...are you...alright?"

Just then a voice caught Dredgens attention turning his head and to his surprise, it was Maia asking the question.

Dredgen stared a the Red Queen a bit confused at her concern over him he expected Olga, Chole, or Alicia to check on him but Maia well that's unexpected from her nonetheless he replied

"I'm fine" The Mandalorian assured her

The Red Queen stood there she crossed her arms together fidgeting a bit before turning her head away from him "I...I wanted to say thanks...for taking a bullet for me"

Dredgen again was off at Maia's behavior but still appreciated her surprising gratitude towards him.

"It was nothing, my Beskar protected me"

"Hmph..Maia chuckled before looking back at him "Point taken but still taking a bullet for someone is not nothing to most"

"True." Dredgen agrees "but getting shot comes within my profession"

Maia can't argue with that she too understands that given that she was a merc as well. But for some reason, she didn't know the reason why she went to check on the Mandalorian already knowing that his armor could take most hits and he'll be fine. Maybe she felt obligated to say thanks after he took a shot for her likely saving her life too. The Red Queen already knows what it's like when someone jumps in to protect her when her life is in danger. Her merc colleagues had done the same to her so have her other SHield Princesses during their war with Dark Queen

With Dredgen even after showing her clear resentment towards him for disrespecting of the Kuroinu, he jumped in to protect her from harm's way without a second thought the very moment he saw her in danger. That's twice he did. First at his covert from his own kind and now here taking a shot to the head. Maia was still trying to process it but his actions were somewhat giving her a new fond respect towards him. This is making her remember a feeling she had back in her Kuroinu days something she hasn't felt in a long time towards someone, a man in particular the only time she felt it was with..Vault?

Maia twitched at the thought she looked at the Mandalorian who wasn't looking at her. Her cheeks flashed red a little Is she feeling the same thing towards this Bounty Hunter as she had with Vault back in her Kuroinu days? No way! The Red Queen shook her head denying it. Dredgen may have protected her twice but there's no way she is okay with someone weird like him! She doesn't even know what he looks like!

"Are you alright?" Dredgen suddenly asks

"H-Huh?! Maia snapped out of it "What!?

"You're acting strange now." The Mandalorian noticing her change in behavior

The Red Queen twitched "I-I'm fine! I need to head back with my people just wait here till we're all ready"

"That's what I've been so far." Dredgen said

"R-Right." Maia turned around and left as she was walking away, the Mandalorian

...

After a while Claudia and her Shiled Princesses colleagues were ready. There were about 80 or so with them a small sizable force while the rest returned to to Feoh. The Shield Commander is hoping this will be adequate for these Mandalorians to take them to their covert.

Claudia approached the leader getting her attention

"We are ready." The Shield Commander said

The leader looked behind Claudia she observed at the number of troops they'd decided to bring with them. After making her assessment she nods her head in approval

"Very well. We will escort you all."

Claudia and a few others let out a sigh of relief they thought they had to send more of their back to Feoh

"I must warn you all the trip back will be dangerous and It'll take us half a day to reach the covert."

"My forces and I can handle the journey."

The Leader chuckled "Hmph..We'll see about that."

...

Many hours passed the journey wasn't exactly smooth, well for the Shield Princesses and their Knights, it was long and treacherous for them. They encounter a few minor dangers but nothing to cause problems for them to slow down.

Claudia was feeling a bit uneasy they were venturing into uncharted territory and their only escort was these Mandaloirans who ambushed them a while ago are leading them to their covert deep into the forest far from Feoh. But the Sheild Commander remain resolved she promised her Highness to bring more Mandaloirans to help aid them in their war against the Kuroinu.

It was late evening the sky bright orange still but it'll soon be dark. After trekking more the leader stopped she raised a fist signaling the others to do the same as well. Claudia and her forces stopped as well they noticed it.

"What's happening?" Claudia asks "Why are we stopping"

The leader didn't reply she slightly lifted up her helmet to where her mouth is and did a loud high-pitched whistle a very distinctive one that almost could've been mistaken as an instrument, the noise echoed through the forest. Claudia and the others stood tense when she did it they all didn't understand why she did it. The Sheild Commander then noticed Dredgen who seemed relatively calm and not tense like them even the Dark Queen was calm as well.

But after brief moments of silence, they all heard the same whistling noise as before and out above some tree branches ahead of them. Revealing themselves were 3 Mandaloirans Sentry guards with their armor covered in some foliage to help blend in emerging out from hiding. They all had rifles of some sort with scopes attached to them.

They all walked off from the high branch and used their jetpack to descend to the ground safely. The Sentries approached the group.

"Welcome back was afraid you'd all be returning empty-handed but it seems you all did not." The Sentry said as he noticed Dredgen " Ahh..You've brought the Wolf and so of its Shield Allies and what's this the Dark Queen Olga Discordia too?

"We were also surprised by this." The leader said

The Sentry Mandalorian hummed at this "Hmm..I see It is a great honor to have you here Dark Queen."

"Likewise." Olga said respectfully nodding her head

The Sentry did the same "You are clear to enter. Don't keep them waiting."

The 3 Sentry jet boosted back up to the high branches.

With permission granted, the leader looks at the Shiled Princeses.

"Follow us it's just up ahead."The leader said

The Shield Commander and her colleagues nod their heads after a short walk they arrive at a clearing in the forest the first thing the Shield Knights saw were many tents set up and many Mandaloirans gathered.

Everyone's eyes widen in awe to see so many. There were like 60 people mostly adults and a few younglings/fondlings. All were wearing Mandalorian armor some had a few complete sets like the adults and the younglings/fondlings had a few bits and pieces.

"I will take it from here." The leader said to one of her subordinates "Go rest up.

The Mandalorian subordinates nod their heads to the leader and proceed to head to what appears to be a mess hall tent of sorts.

"Follow me."

"Lead the way, Sister." Dredgen said

And with that Dredgen and his Shield Allies followed their they were walking many eyes were on the Shield Knights it was to be expected given outsiders are rare and not a group of that size. Their stares were making the SHield Knights feel a bit tense.

"Relax." The leader spoke up. They're all just curious why you're all here.

"Hmph To think I would enter a Mandalorian covert after the Great Purge. Olga said reminiscing about the past. It's comforting to see your kind are thriving in such times

"You honour us with your kind words Dark Queen," The leader said

Olga smiled she was the one feeling honor to be in the presence of the Mandalorian

"Wow...There are so many of Mandaloirans here." Luu-Luu said sounding awe

"It's amazing you all live out here this dangerously far from any main roads." Alicia said. "I'm surprised the Kuroinu didn't find this place during the Battlefront of Feoh"

"A few stragglers here and there got close but none were able to report back to their superiors." The leader said

Neary everyone a cold feeling when she said that they had a feeling they likely killed every Kuroinu merc who was unfortunate to venture a little too close to this covert.

As they continued walking the Shield Knights looking around were in just disbelief at this. For people to call the 'Greatest Warriors in Eostia' this type of environment they all live in is not what they expected. Children were playing around and laughing while the adults handled the responsibility around here. Apart from the odd warrior culture and everyone wearing armor head to toe, It was almost like a normal village here so to speak.

"This..this was not what I expected a Mandalorian covert to be like." Claudia said sounding a bit surprised

"What? Did you expect it to be more….harsher? Tribal like? Militaristic?" Dredgen asks

"In a matter of speaking yes."

Just as Claudia said that coming out ahead of them from the side of the covert was another Mandalorian behind them was a fondling girl in her early teens carrying a wooden pole over her shoulders and holding a large dead boar with big tusks presumably she hunted by herself. The boar was almost twice the size of the girl but the youngling was carrying it like it was nothing to her.

Seeing that made Claudia and the others more shocked

"Well it looks like they're having boars tonight," Dredgen said

"They're having young children hunting dangerous animals?"

"In the ways of Mandalore having a Fondling or Youngling to hunt such animals on their own is a key part of becoming a Mandalorian and for their survival. This is the way" Dredgen explains

"Have you done it before?" Alicia asks

"Yes but the animal I've hunted at that age was much larger than hers and more dangerous." Dredgen answer

Again the Shield Knights were shocked the Shield Princesses almost didn't want to ask what kind of animal the Bounty Hunter hunted at a very young age.

The leader eventually led them to a large tent of the covert there were 2 Mandaloirans guarding the main entrances. Upon reaching their escort stopped and turned around to the Shield Knights

"Our leader is in here waiting for you all however he only permits 3 to enter with the Wolf."

"3?" Claudia asks

"That is correct." The leader nods "You'll all decide who will enter while the rest wait here for your return."

The Shield Commander complied at her request "Very well Maia, the Dark Queen and I will enter with Sir Dredgen to speak with the leader

What? Alicia surprised she's not coming "I'm not coming too?

"Alicia this is a delicate matter here." Claudia explains I" understand you wish to join us but it's best you leave this to us."

The Blonde Knight was conflicted to hear this but can understand Claudias cautions she and even Maia have more experience in handling delicate matters like these

"Very well Claudia"

"You'll stay out with the others" Claudia said "and...make sure Luu-Luu and her Halfing friends don't stir up trouble."

"Yes my lady"

"Hey!" Luu-Luu shouted

"Chloe you will wait here with the others too" Olga said

"But my Queen I can't leave your side" The Handmaiden protested"

"It is alright. I will be okay without for a moment."

Chloe was hesitant about this but she would comply with her Queen's order "As you wish my Queen.

The leader seeing who will be entering nods her head "Ok follow me inside"

Their escort led the 4 inside the tent upon entering there was a large table in the center with a map of Eosita on it, a few torches around to give the room some light, and a large Beskar sigil skull of the legendary mythosaur hanging on the tent wall ahead of them

Waiting for them were 2 Mandaloirans their helmets were off and on the table. 1 was an elder man and the other a young man.

The elder man was tall and grizzled looking who looked like he had seen his fair share of battles. He appeared to be in his late 50s with white skin he had medium dark gray hair a full beard his eyes blue. The upper half of his armor was colored red while the lower half of the thigh armor was a silver color and the shin guards were a Chelsea Blue color. He had 2 mythosaur skull logos imprinted on both his pauldrons

His helmet on the table was mainly the same chelsea blue color on the dome of the helmet and back half. On the front half of the helmet, the T shape visor is a silver color cyan blue color. The visor was a cyan-blue color. On the ear caps had pointy antenna flaps on both sides and on the center dome had a crest curve giving it a somewhat knightly look but still maintaining its Mandalorian aesthetic look

The young man next to him looked to be around Maia's age he had white alabaster skin, and straight black hair that covered his right slightly sharp crimson-red eyes. His armor was comprised of a blood-red color with some pieces having a dark sliver color, the pauldrons were more angular and smaller one of them had a signet of a Mantacore imprint and had a black shoulder cape.

His helmet was a bit different, the base color of it was a dark silver and the center had a big red strip over the dome of it. It didn't have the T-shape visor rather the visor was a horizontal line on each end where the eyes were slightly larger. The center of the visor had a vertical red stripe to retain its T-shape visor aesthetic. It also had a breathing mask embedded on the lower front of the helmet

Their escorts placed a hand on her chest plate and nodded her head to them "I've brought the Wolf and his Shield Associates and also the Dark Queen.

"The Dark Queen?" The elder man raised a brow surprised at this. "I see… Thank you. You've done well sister we'll take it from here. Go and rest up"

"Thank you." Their esorts nods her head and leaves the tent.

As she left both sides stared at each other. Claudia and Maia were a bit nervous by this except for Olga she seemed rather honored by the presence of this covert's leader. The Elder man looked at them very calmly so the young man too.

"Welcome to our covert we've been expecting you "The elder man politely greeted his guest with a nod

"T-Thank you the honour is ours." Claudia replies back in a polite manner too.

The Elder man then turns his attention to Olga the Dark Queen can tell he seems privileged by her presence

"Olga Discordia it is a great honor to have you on our covert"

Olga smiled and nodded her head "Thank you. I am as well."

Claudia twitched a little she could tell by the elder man favored Olga more than the Shield Knights there but quickly brushed it off.

As both did their exchanges Dredgen stared at these 2 Mandalorians for a moment he couldn't believe it he knows these 2!

"Orion Paxus? Shiro Branwen?"

"Dredgen". The Elder man now known as Orion greets our Mandalorian with a nod and smile

"Hello there, Dredgen." Shiro said with a small grin on his face " It's been a while hasn't it?"

"That it has Shiro." Dredgen said sounding a bit surprised

"Wait You know these 2?" Claudia asks

"I do. Orion trained me for a bit when he visited my covert while I was still a Youngling and Shiro we did a few jobs together years ago but I did not think we would encounter their covert."

Both Mandaloirans chuckled at Dredgen's words "

"You've grown quite the reputation young man." Orion said sounding a bit proud " We heard what you did at the Battlefront of Feoh. The Wolf, the people of the SHield Kingdom is calling you."

"Hmph..The name suits you" Shiro said, "Kinda cool they're calling you that."

"They can call me whatever they like."

Shiro laughed a little "Hmph Right…as long it's not 'savage' they're fine right?

Dredgen muttered a groan under his breath but quickly brushed it off he didn't expect to encounter his friends covert but this could be a good thing. Last he remembered Orion was the leader of this covert and still is apparently. It must've been him who planned to draw him out here to have a discussion

Our Mandalorian looked at Orion

"You know why we're here don't you Orion?"

Orion just chuckled at Dredgen words which confused our Mandalorian "You are mistaken Dredgen I am not the leader of this covert no longer rather, he is now.

Orion motions his head to Shrio

Dredgen paused at this information looking a Shiro for a moment "Shiro's the leader of this.."

"That is correct."

Shiro let out a grin on his face amused he couldn't see his brethren's reaction but could tell he was awfully surprised that he's the leader of this covert now

"He's awfully young to be a leader." Claudia said

Shiro chuckled at the Shield Commander's words "Yet you have someone young like Primm Floire and Alicia Arcturus leader of 2 cities of the Shield Kingdom"

"Ok fair point"

"Why aren't you still leader Orion?" Dredgen asks still surprised at this. "Did perhaps Shiro bested you in a duel?"

Orion laughed at his question "Hmph no he did not It's important that I pass leadership to the next generation someone who can lead and ensure the survival of this covert"

"And how did Shiro come to be leader?"

"He and alongside many others volunteer for the position but only one can lead this covert. In the end, Shiro was the victor who won the right to lead in combat.

Orion then placed a hand on Shiro's shoulder

"He is still learning but shows promise. I'm acting as his advisor now but it's Shiro who makes the decisions here. In fact, he was the one who orchestrated the idea to draw you out and bring you and your Shield Allies here to talk."

"Did he now?" Dredgen said as he looked at Shiro who had a smug look on his face our Mandalorian is a bit surprised at this

"I knew the sighting of other Mandaloirans would get your attention Dredgen and the Shield Kingdom too. I know what the Wolf wants but what does your Shield Allies want from us?"

Shiro turned his gaze to Claudia which made the Shield Commander twitch she cleared her throat.

"I'll get straight to the point. My Lady Celestine has ordered me to form an alliance…a contract so to speak with your Mandalorian covert to aid our ongoing war against the Kuroinu"

Shiro raised a brow but was not surprised he looked at Orion and he too was not surprised "Ah..So the Shield Kingdom is requesting our tribe's help then?

"That is correct. Of course, you're tribe with be rewarded substantially for your assistants"

Shiro paused for a bit but chuckled a little "Hmph I am tempted by the offer but my answer is No."

"What?" Claudia blinked thought she heard wrong.

"That was quick." Maia said a bit surprised

"We will not aid in your Shield Kingdom war against the Kuroinu." Shiro said in a firm tone

The Shield Commander was caught off guard by this and was confused she didn't expect them to turn down her offer without some thought Maia too but they both didn't understand why they brought them here.

Shiro amusedly smiled at the Shield Princess's faces There was a reason why he brought them here he noticed the Dark Queen Olga who wasn't even surprised at how this turned out and it seemed she knew why he expected someone like her to know.

Shiro looks at the Shield Commander "However by Mandalorian creed, my tribe can help on Dredgen's quest to aid the Shield Kingdom against their war with Kuroinu.

Claudia blinked when hearing that "You'll aid us then?

"I'll aid in Dredgen's quest, not the Shield Kingdom." Shiro corrected "but before we do I need something done first from him"

"Something from me?" Dredgen asks

"That's right."

Dredgen paused he looked at Claudia who was looking at him before turning back to Shrio "Fair enough. What do you wish for me to do?

Shiro nods his head approval "Good Before the Battlefront of Feoh happened our scouts noticed the Kuroinu were lurking at a cave not far from here with a dangerous creature that we believe they were trying to tame. The report we got was grim."

"How grim?"

"None of them survived"

Dredgen was unfazed at the information he needed more details of this"So you want us to slay whatever this creature is I'm assuming?"

"Yes."

"What creature we're talking about here?

"A Nuckelavee," Shiro answers

"A Nuckelavee ?!" The Shield Princesses even the Dark Queen were taken aback at this information

"We were also surprised for such a beast to be here," Orion said not surprised at their reactions too "They're usually native to the wasteland but we believe during the siege of Feoh has drawn one to cross the border. From what we know about this Nuckelavee it has a cave it lives in located in a pitted area it only ventures out seeking food at night. So far these past weeks the Kuroinu were its diet but after the Battlefront of Feoh it has been venturing further to seek other sources of food."

"I want you Dredgen and your Shield allies to kill it." Shiro said in a firm tone

"W-Wait!" Claudia spoke up "You want us to help Sir Dredgen kill such a creature?"

"That is the deal I'm offering to Dredgen yes.

Claudia couldn't believe they were requesting them to slay such a dangerous creature. Olga, too she knows how viscous Nuckelavee is even with her dark magical power she couldn't tame it in her demon army.

"Has this Nuckelavee become a problem for your covert?" Dredgen asks

"As yet no" Shiro answers "but we rather have the issue now settled before it arrives here seeking us as its food source"

"Hmph."

A sudden chuckle got everyone's attention. Everyone turned to Maia who did it she had an amusing look on her face.

"Why are you asking us to do this? You're all Mandaloirans why can't you have any of your people take care of it? I'm sure you people can make quick work of it. After all your kinds are the greatest warriors of Eosita is it not?"

"Maia!" Claudia shouted appalled at the Red Queen's sudden rudeness

Shiro coldly stared at the Red Queen after hearing her words however Maia was slightly unfazed by it

"Do not be so quick to judge of my decision as cowardice Red Queen." Shiro said "The tribe's safety and our fondlings and younglings are my responsibility and I will not risk my own to slay it. Even though many of us would love to partake in the hunt I cannot risk losing the adults. Many of them are responsible of the safety, secrecy, and raising of our youngling here."

"What? You can't kill this thing?"

"Our ancestry has slain creatures such as that before" Shiro said "And I doubt a pack of dogs like the Kuroinu you were once part of off are able to let alone tame it only just being its source of food."

Maia winced when he said as much she didn't want to admit he was right about that. The Kuroinu had never slain Nuckelavee to her knowledge but them trying to tame one? Vault wouldn't do that! Would he? She thought.

Shiro briefly looked at Maia a bold attempt she made to provoke him he'll admit he kinda like what she did. He then looked at Dredgen

"Bring its both heads as proof and my tribe and I will aid in your quest Dredge however we can. I will also give you something from our tribe's armory as well."

"Really? "

"Do we have a deal Dredgen?"

Dredgen stood there thinking he looked at Claudia he could tell by the look on her face she wasn't so sure about this but he and her had a job to do here. He looked at his friend with his answer

"Deal."

Shiro and Orion looked pleased to hear this "Good I will show you a map of the location the beast's den and will provide you with spear catapults to help you slay the beast. Use them as you see fit"

Thank you. Dredgen nods his friend grateful that they did.

"As of now, your Shield Allies are our guests Orion said "we will provide lodging and food for them. Take time to do some planning and preparation for your hunt."

Shiro and Orion respectfully nod their heads to them. Dredgen and others did the same and proceeded to exit the tent

The 4 exited the tents as soon they did Alicia and the others came up to them

"What happened?" Alicia asks eagerly wanting to know so were the others

"Did we get more Mandalorians to help us?" Luu-Luu asking

"We got good,bad, and worse news" Dredgen said

"Good news they'll agree to help on Sir Dredgens quest to aid us". Claudia said

Really?

"Yes but the bad news they want us do something for them first. Slay a dangerous creature near her and wants us bring its head to them as proof" Maia said

"And what's the worse news?"

"The worst news is that creature they want us to slay is a nuckleeve" Olga added

"A what?!" Alicia and Luu-Luu shouted in shock

"Yes." Claudia confirmed with them

"B-But why do they want us to kill it? Luu-Luu asks.

"It's been spotted not far here and wanted the issue resolved before it becomes a problem here to them" Dredgen explains

"Still for this Shiro person to want us to slay such a beast is giving me second thoughts." Claudia sounding worried

"This is a fair deal for us." Dredgen said

"How is this a fair deal?" Claudia asks confused by it

"Do you want their help or not?" Dredgen asks back getting a little annoyed at the Shield Commander

"I-I do but for us to do such a dangerous task I'm hesitant about it"

"We scratch their backs and they'll scratch ours." Dredgen assures "Shiro will honor his word and will help us.

"He'll help you Sir Dredgen on your quest, not the Shield Kingdom. Claudia corrected.

"My quest is aid your Shield Kingdom war." Dredgen said " Our task still aligns Lady Claudia but I assure you all that if we complete this Shiro and his people will aid me in helping the Shield Kingdom."

"How can you be certain?"

"I've known Shiro for a while now and despite his casual humor and all, he's no fool. He's already putting this covert at great risk bringing you all here and he's smart enough to know that the Kuroinu are a growing threat for all us. He too knows he needs to make allies if he wishes for his tribe to survive.

The Shield Commander was still wary about the deal "But for us to kill a-"

"They can be killed if we do this right," Dredgen assured

Claudia paused she stood taking it all after some thinking she hardened her resolve. She took a deep breath.

"I've never fought such a creature but Her Highness requested us to bring more Mandaloirans to aid us in our war If this is what we have to do then so be it."

"Good. "Dredgen nods his head at this We'll need to start discussing tactics on this. But for now, in the meantime, we should rest"

"Agreed." Claudia nods her head "It's been a long day for all of us. It's best we all do"

---

(Author Note)

And done! Sorry, it's been a while busy with other stuff and this was another long chapter for me to do.

Dredgen didn't expect to encounter familiar faces at this covert but this will help him on this quest! Nice!

Shiro is a side character requested by one of my readers stigma13 so thank you for the character!

If you didn't know by now Orion Paxus is based off of Optimus Prime and I did a little tease of the 'Bad Batch'

Next Chapter will be a challenge for me but I'll give it my best!

Hope you all enjoyed this and see you next time!