Red Dragon's Roar - Fall of the Kuroinu!

by King Traegodia

On their way to Hammerfell, The Dragonborn and his friends get swept up into a storm only to end up in the land of Eostia. Upon arriving, they are pulled in the middle of yet another war. But what they don't realize, is that things aren't all they seem, and they will soon be forced to make some hard choices.

14. Chapter 13

So with their escape from the alliance and what punishment they had for them, the crew now resides in the secret city, but what will do there...? will the monster folk accept them, or will it be like it has in the other kingdoms, find out now...!

---

Chapter 13

A New Road (Part 1)

---

At the Council room, Greil just finished with his proposition.

"I'm against it!" A female orc in a brown armor said, "They can take it to the Shields. Not just that, but our entire technology."

"Warlord Garoka does have a point." a voluptuous green eyed woman with orange hair, fox ears, and nine fox tails said, "But, if they really are on our side, then we must treat them as allies."

"I do have to agree with Daimyō Ayuki." a bee woman said, "We must be cautious when it comes to people we know nothing about."

"I believe that we can trust them." an orange haired young man wearing a dark grey armor replied, "After all, they proved that they aren't braindead followers, but adventurers that think before doing something."

"That's the thing! They could be preparing to take this city!" Garoka added.

"If general Greil says that they can be trusted, then they can be trusted." a silver haired boy with red eyes said.

"The Dark Blades began with the observation of the targets." the Dark Elf stated, "At the end of the day, we will have our answers."

"I know that a lot of you suffered at the hands of the humans. However, not every human that we encounter is evil." Greil pointed, "If we really wish to end this war, we must put aside old grudges an look upon a new future where every race stands as equal."

A huge silence fell on the room before that a woman with bat-like ears and arms spoke, "The old must make way for the new. A concept that we understand."

"And for it to happen, we must show more trust toward humans." Greil added, "Of course, some must be kept an eye on. But, not all humans are the same."

Most of the people nodded while some stayed neutral.

"I take that's it for today." Greil got up, as well as the others, before leaving the room.

---

Market district...

---

True to their word, the rest of the crew had waited for Lucien to get off the ship, going to eat somewhere after... the only problem was where they were going to go...

"Thanks for waiting chaps," Lucien thanked, stomach growling after that, "But I could eat something right now, especially since we didn't back there,"

Yuriana sighed, "Well, that was the idea, since the Captain and Inigo are homebound at the moment, it would be a nice time to explore down here,"

Recorder sniffed around, picking up a sweet scent, "I smell something over here, smells almost like sweetrolls too..."

"That sounds like a bakery or meadery from how you're wording it..." Erik said, rubbing his chin, "Eh, why not? there's plenty more to cover, and they just might have those there,"

And with that, the four friends set off, following Recorder's bloodhound senses...unbeknownst to them, they were being shadowed...

In a café, many customers, men, and monsters were chatting and laughing. Even when the four entered, all they got were glances of acknowledgment before that a red-haired maid with cat ears, and a tail walked to them.

"Welcome~ how may I help you today?" she asked with a smile

The four were stunned, especially Lucien and Erik with blushes on their faces...the former clearing his throat.

"Oh Hi! uh...yeah, my friends and I were about to, uh-" The imperial struggled, trying to keep it together, as the nord rolled his eyes.

Erik having enough, sighed and placed his hands on Lucien shoulders, gently moving him out of the way.

"I've got this Lucien," he said, turning to the cat girl, "Hello there, my friends and I are new here, we don't exactly know you guys set up tables, but we are interested in eating here," with confidence.

She simply smiled as she said "Don't worry, just follow me."

She took them to a table for four before asking, "What do you wish to order?"

The group thought on that for a moment, glancing over their menus, Recorder going wide-eyed one of the choices.

"I'll have the double crisp apple pie with some milk please..." she ordered.

the other three gave her unamused looks, the imperial shaking his head.

"Not surprised there..." He groaned, giving the waitress a smile, "Yeah, I'll take a couple of these groblin crepes with strawberry dip please, and I'll have some green tea with it,"

Yuriana smiled at the waitress, "I think I'll have one of your stuffed pretzels, with the cinnamon frosted on it with icing dip, along with Herbal tea if you have it," nodding her head at Erik.

Erik nodded at something on the menu, "I'll have some of the peach pie along with the fried blueberry rings, along with...coffee? yeah, I'll try the coffee too,"

"Very well, please wait for some moments for your order to be ready." the catgirl maid with a smile before heading to the kitchens.

The watched her head to the kitchen, the imperial giving an approved nod...

"Well, she was...pretty cute, the ears made it even more so..." Lucien complemented, getting some snickers from the two ladies, "What?"

Recorder smirked at him, "Aww, we having kitty fever there Lucien?"

"Shut up!" he squeaked out, face redder than a tomato.

Erik frowned at that, "Hey, I have to be honest, she's very pretty...if you don't go for it, I will,"

"Erik!" The imperial scolded, "Seriously? she's not out of earshot..."

"I'm just saying, Lucien, she's not bad at all..." The Nord smirked, nodding approvingly, making Lucien groan.

Yuriana waved them off chuckling, "Aww come on now, don't get mad, she seemed nice ...around you speed too,"

"You guys are the worst!" The imperial moaned, face going into the table, attempting to drown out their laughter.

"It seems that the attacks on the caravans increased." a Minotaur sitting near them stated a bit out loud, "Could be the work of the humans but the Dark Blades are still investigating the matter."

"With the nature of the Holy Army and their corrupted soldiers, I won't be that surprised that it end up being them." replied a man before drinking a mug of milk, "Unless the Council gets serious on the matter, it could prove to be a problem to the villages that count on us to deliver goods."

"Let's hope that the Deathbringers don't get involved." the Minotaur stated, "The last thing we need it a trail of blood that could guide the humans here."

"I totally agree with you." the human nodded before putting a couple of gems on the table, "This one's on me. I'd better go check on the kids, better not have an angry Dark Elf waiting for you with her sword ready to cleave you in two."

They both laughed before the man left.

The crew stared at the duo, watching the man leave the cafe...

"Wow...seeing this, makes me wonder if we just left from another world entirely back there..." Erik commented, getting nods from the others.

"Yeah, everyone back in the other city seemed...disconnected from each other, spiteful even, but it's different here, much different..." Yuriana concurred as the maid returned with their orders.

"Thank you for waiting~," the maid said as she was using levitation magic to lift the dishes.

She began putting them one by one before saying, "I hope you enjoy yourselves."

"Thank you!" all of them thanked, before turning to their orders, eyes going as wide as those plates.

"Oh...my god...it's beautiful..." Recorder sniffled, looking her golden glazed apple pie, getting a closer look which made them go even wider...which I was sure was possible myself, "is that caramel too? oooooooooooooo!" trying a piece with her fork, eyes relaxing in every chew, "Oh yeah...mmmm...I never...mmm wanna leave...!" taking another bite.

"I'll say..." Lucien said, mouth agape staring at his crepes, "by the gods, is that ice cream on there?"

Erik grinned at his plate, "I think so Lucien, and there's no deny that is peach pie here," taking the fork and trying a piece, "Mmmhmmhmm...yeah...it's the one..."

Yuriana had already broken the pretzel apart and dipping it, "I get the feeling we're gonna like this place, and it's just the beginning," eating the piece, nodding, "Mmmhm..."

"I'm happy to hear that you're enjoying our food." the catgirl said before heading to the kitchens, "Let me know if you need anything else."

---

Greil and the orange haired man were walking as people bowed to them as they pass.

"In the end, you were right." the man said, "The humans of this world only see their interest and nothing else."

"We can't change them. Their selfishness existed long before their birth." Greil replied before adding, "I hope that everything's fine with your family. I heard that you went and bought a lot of dresses to your daughter."

"Of course that I would!" the man snapped, "My cute Mimilia deserves them!"

Greil chuckled before saying, "You can't be with her all the time, you know that one day she will find a spouse to live her life with them."

A deadly aura enveloped the man as he said, "Over. My. Dead. Body."

Greil laughed before saying, "You'd never change. By the way, Gronik, how's the investigation going?"

The man, Gronik, looked at Greil and said, "According to Udemi, the attackers left neither physical traces, nor magical traces."

Greil began to think as he said, "This means that the attacker knows about magic, and the traces."

"Do you think that they can be related to some group of elves?" Gronik asked.

"That's a possibility. However, I don't think that we should conclude right now." Greil pointed, "Besides, Niall said that some nobles got attacked on the outskirt of Ur and Feoh."

"Do you think that they're related?" Gronik asked.

"I hope not." Greil frowned, "We still need to know who helps the Black Dogs in Feoh. Niall's going to need more help."

Gronik nodded before taking a communication crystal, "Udemi. We need you to send some help to Feoh."

"Understood." the voice, belonging to the Dark Elf assassin, replied.

"We need to scout for more information," Greil stated before getting a nod from Gronik.

---

At the house...

---

While most of them were out, Traysek had toured around in their new home, going from bedrooms to the kitchen, to the balcony...he finally reached the basement, finding familiar crafting stations, such as the blacksmith forge with blue flame keeping it lit, the grider and armorer's bench, the enchanter's table, alchemy sets and two other strange stations.

'Okay...I recognize some of these...so they have similar crafting sets, the blue flames and large alchemy set is new though...' walking up to the forge, 'hmm...I don't have anything to make at the moment, except Inigo's arrows, but I gave him the recipe for that already...' drawing his ebony scimitar, frowning at the cracks on it, 'Hopefully, they've got something better than this...' sheathing it, before leaving the basement.

When he got back upstairs, he found Inigo near the entrance, fixing his boots on, raising an eyebrow.

"I thought you were clocking in for the night," Traysek smirked, getting his attention.

"Oh! Traysek, I thought the same of you actually," Inigo said in surprise.

The Redguard shook his head, "I tried to earlier, just couldn't sleep, how about you?"

"Same, which is why I'm heading out, the guys left me a message earlier saying they were at some "Cafe" assuming it's like a tavern of sorts," The khajiit explained, finishing the straps to his boot.

Traysek nodded, "Yeah, I remember them saying they were going out, also, did you check out the basement? it's got a lot of the crafting tools we have at home, was thinking about putting something for magic spiders we use,"

"I haven't seen it yet, but thanks for telling me," Inigo chuckled, "Got a way to craft these arrows when I get back...speaking of, why are you heading out?"

"Seeing what weapons and armor they have," The captain said, pulling his scimitar back out, showing the cracks, "Hopefully something better than this, if not, I can always check the black market,"

Inigo winced at the cracks on the blade, "Mind if I come with? I could probably use a better sword myself, if not better armor,"

"Sure, maybe take a tour while we're at it, yeah," Traysek smirked.

"Indeed my friend, indeed," Inigo chuckled, motioning to the door, "Lead the way, my friend,"

Yamakhroz market district..

The markets were full of people, both of monster and human origin, either travelling together or alone in some cases, a couple of things stood out from the pirate duo...some of them had families with one another, despite gender even...which was something out of place, even in Tamriel...

"It's a completely different vibe here, my friend..." Inigo said, looking around.

Traysek nodded with a surprised look, "Yeah it is, some even have families with a few of them...looks like Greil wasn't wrong there," looking around, "I wonder where the weapons market is..."

The sounds of hammering could be heard nearby...

"Well, there's a spot...lets see what they have," The Redguard said, making his way over to it, with Inigo following behind.

Once they were there, they were treated to an Orc blacksmith, with a few kitsune helpers maintaining the forge.

"Excuse me? Hello?" Traysek called out, getting the large orc to stop his hammering, "Hello there, I came to check out your wares, you seem to have quite the collection here,"

"Depends on what you want." the orc smirked, "What kind of weapon calls the most for ya. How do you want your armor to be. If you don't find it, Put up an order and some things you want your weapon or armor to have. The name's Groth Fireblood." he then looked at one of the helpers, "Bring him some of our weapons!"

The fox boy nodded before rushing to get three weapons; The first was a long single edged sword.

"Sword made out of the remains of the last Kelpi that the humans killed." the orc said as he passed the weapon to Traysek, "Enchanted to control the wind and the air, one of the finest blade around."

He then picked a two handed sword.

"Had a lot of trouble making this one without upsetting the balance between the components." Groth said as he handed the weapon to Inigo, "Think of it as an electricity generator if you have the magical capabilities for it."

He then took a scythe.

"And this is my masterpiece, a scythe made to be used by Dragonewts." the orc blacksmith looked at Traysek before saying, "We have a lot more, but those are the most priced ones here."

Traysek inspected the sword, the air and wind dancing off of it, while Inigo held the greatsword.

"Similar to that other blade I had, let me see the other one you've got Inigo," The Redguard said, trading swords with him, lightning sparking over it, "Very nice, didn't even have to channel magic through it," nodding as he handed the blacksmith the sword, picking up the scythe after, which gave pulse energy before the blade enveloped itself in a purple aura, "Okay, I like this one a bit more, it's giving energy back while it powers up...very unique too..." turning to the Blacksmith, "I like the glow on the scythe, how much for it?"

Inigo concurred, handing the orc blacksmith the sword, "If you have any unique bows or arrows, I'd like to see those too,"

"Can't let you go on a rampage with that y'know." Groth laughed before adding, "Oh well, one hundred gems for it." he then turned to Inigo before saying, "You can find those at my brother's store, he's the one who has all the bows."

Traysek rose an eyebrow, "Sure I can- Gems? what kind of Gems?"

"Like are we talking about diamonds, rubies or emeralds, those Gems?" Inigo added in, raising his eyebrow as well.

"What else would I mean? If you want the weapon put the gems." the orc replied, "As long as it's a gem, it's acceptable."

Both Adventurers went into thought about that, The Redguard reached into his pouch, coming out with three flawless diamonds, "That's all the diamonds I had on me currently, I have more but those on our ship," handing the orc three of them.

"I have two more, here's hoping it'll be enough," Inigo offered, handing the blacksmith his two to add to it.

Groth closed his eyes before reopening them with a bright blue glow in them. He nodded before saying, "Never seen such pureness in any gem. Consider it a deal."

Traysek smiled, picking up the scythe, shouldering it, "Pleasure doing business, I'll definitely be back," leaving his stand.

"I'll be back too, especially for your armor sets," Inigo complimented, before joining the Redguard, "He seemed nice, I even liked that amber armor he had in there,"

Traysek nodded, "Yeah, but we definitely need to see someone about how the currency works here and if we need to exchange anything or not before buying anything else, getting THIS was lucky," eyeing his glowing scythe, "Wonder what it does though? hoping to find out soon, just not TOO soon..."

"What about Greil? if anyone would know it'd be him, especially if we're going to be here for a while, we're going to need to know," Inigo suggested, with a chin rub.

Traysek thought about that, before nodding, "Yeah... good idea...I mean we still haven't thanked him for the house, so there's that incentive...problem is, this place is huge, he could be anywhere,"

"Then we might as well have ourselves a tour, can't be that hard locating a large bull man in earth colors,"

"You might be surprised there, look," The Redguard pointed, towards a minotaur with earth-colored armor.

The khajiit sighed, "Yeah...this might be harder than I thought..."

---

Greil walked while being in deep thought, 'Now that we lost the fortress, we're going to need to build another one to keep the attention of the Shields away from us. I'm pretty sure that they're searching for my queen at this very moment. If I am to protect this city and my queen, I must set a new target for our enemies to get their eyes on-'

But his thought was quickly cut.

"Master Greil!" Cloe was running toward him.

"Cloe?"

"I just got word that you want someone to investigate something." She said before adding "Please, let me do it!"

Greil sighed before turning to the young Dark Elf, "I know that you want to prove yourself, but remember that I count on you to keep watch on our lady when I'm not here. I trained you and allowed the Dark Blades to train you so that Lady Olga is in capable hands. I have faith that you won't let me down on this"

Cloe blushed before saying, "I-If you say so." Greil simply laughed at that

The Minotaur was talking with a girl that looks like a combination of a human and a bat.

"So, still saying no?" the Minotaur asked with a smirk.

The batgirl sighed before saying, "I have more important things to do, than letting you have your way with me. I mean, I know that what you have down there is nice, but I still need to go get some of the ingredients that the apothecary asked for."

The Minotaur was about to say something when he saw two people walking toward him.

"Hey General, gotta question about how the currency works around here and-" Traysek stopped himself when he noticed that minotaur turned around, "Oh, you're not Greil...sorry about that, you like a lot like from the back..."

Inigo nervously chuckled, "Yeah, sorry about that, you seemed...busy too," glancing at the Batgirl, "know where we can find him though?"

The two looked between themselves before the minotaur spoke.

"I wonder how I was confused for a legend like him." he said as he was confused, "I mean, he's way bigger than any other minotaur, and instead of bull horns..." he pointed to his own horns, "He has elk antlers."

"If you want to speak with him, ask a guard to call him for you." the batgirl added.

Both Traysek and Inigo glanced at each other, turning back to the monster duo in front of them.

"Not from a distance, but thank you anyway..." Traysek thanked, "Come on Inigo, it's not him..." continuing towards the Residential area.

"Right, that is embarrassing...sorry for bothering you," The khajiit nervously, chuckled, following the Redguard.

As they were walking, they noticed a human guard standing at attention and looking around to make sure that everything's alright.

They both walked up to the guard, "Hey there, sorry to bother ya, but do you know where we can find your general? had some questions for him," Traysek greeted, getting his attention.

"I don't know... but I can ask if you want." he then took a communication crystal from his pouch, "Sir, two people want to talk with you, a human and a Felinefolk."

"Really now?" Greil sounded amused, "I'll meet them in front of their house."

"Understood." the guard nodded before turning to the two, "You heard him."

Traysek nodded, "Yeah, I heard that, in front of our house, thank you,"

"Why in front of our house though...? almost seems like he was headed there anyway," Inigo asked, frowning.

The Redguard shrugged, "Who knows? but that makes this easier, we'll be taking a short way back," grabbing his arm, teleporting them away...

The guard looked a bit surprised but shook his head before resuming his watch.

Greil arrived at the house only to see both Traysek and Inigo appear in front of him.

"Teleportation magic that doesn't depend on the Ley lines... interesting." He mumbled before approaching him.

They both looked surprised, the Redguard frowning at Greil as he approached, "Well that's a surprise, figured I would have to wait an hour or two for you," resting his new scythe on the ground.

"Good to see you again, General, my friend and I had questions about your currency here," Inigo greeted.

"The currency?" Greil asked with confusion before it hits him, "Of course, I forgot that you don't know how things are running here. Instead of using gold coins, which can be replicated with the right skill, we use gems. The lower one is the Jasper, and the highest one is called the Sunset Stone." he took out a gem that illuminates in different colors, from red, passing to orange, then yellow, "These are very rare." he pocketed it before continuing, "Normally, you should be given a book on how we live in this city, but due to how tight I was on time, and that I didn't tell them prior to today that we're going to have new residents, they didn't put them in your house. I will make a call to have six copies delivered to you."

Traysek nodded at that, "I see, well, I'll be on the lookout for those copies, hopefully, those louts can pay off their meals," he chuckled for a second until he got quiet, his eyes turning serious, "And there was something else to..." turning Inigo, "Could you give us a second?"

"I need to go craft some of those arrows anyway, so ring me up or summon me if you need," Inigo said, before making his way to the house.

The Redguard watched him enter the house, before turning back to the General, still leaning on his glowing scythe, "So, to start this off...I've met your goddess, the earth-mother...She and my patron God made a pact together...means I'm bound to help you and your people...With that said, I'm not going into another battlefield with a blindfold...if I'm going to be helping you with the corruption here, I need to know how this ALL began...the warring, the shields, all of it..." sighing after, "Normally, I would talk to the oldest being here, that being your Lady Olga, but at the moment I can't sense her magic and you know a great deal about the politics here, which is why I came to you,"

Greil took a deep breath before saying, "This war began 845 years to be precise, according to Lady Olga, she was the one who attacked first to protect Dark Elves from humans who would assault them. That was what sparked the war between Thorn and Lady Olga. The Goddess Reborn was blinded by the attention that was given to her and neglected the elven races, which caused my Lady to take action. Even if the war was going on between Thorn and my Lady, others began to intervene for their own benefit; Ansur was the first to join Thorn, since their king was expanding his lands, he joined in hope of gaining more. The second one to join was Ur, the family of the time who wanted to gain the favor of a deity to fight off Lycans, who were fighting with the powers of their own deity. After Ur, and Ken joined the war, they offered a place and hosted the Goddess Reborn, taking her away from Thorn where the fights were more intense. After that, Feoh joined as they made an alliance with Ur. Geofu and Rad were the last to join as they were forced to join their alliance against us. As the years go on and they destroy village after village until my Queen forced the monsters that roam the land to obey her. Out of fear, they began assaulting human villages, which brought more balance to the war. Of course, one kingdom decided to join us, but it was destroyed by Feoh, and the ruins of the kingdom are on the top of this mountain. As you heard from my queen, my tribe was asked to join a side... and you saw what happens when you say no to them..."

Traysek sighed and nodded, taking this all in, "Yeah, tried to kill us all back there, I remember that..." clearing his throat, "So Olga did throw the first blow, but was justified in doing it...I can see that happening, understand it even...but the downside to that is that they were able to profit from it and annex the lands anyway...based on the propaganda against her...hence the 'No good deed goes unpunished' situation. the more she fought them, the harder the humans here tightened the grip on her people...I'm getting the warring part now..." nodding to himself, "And the shields...? they seem to be ringleaders in it all, especially the holy ones,"

"Sadly." Greil nodded, "The Goddess Reborn doesn't possess any kind of control. She follows what her church dictates, and is easily distracted from what they don't want her to see. The Shields, as the name states, was originally a group of seven knights that were tasked to protect the land of Eostia. But I'm not well versed there."

"Sir, I have an update." the assassin Dark Elf appeared out of nowhere, nearly putting both men on the offensive.

"By the Earthmother, I told you to stop doing that," Greil said as he calmed down.

After stopping himself from doubling over, Traysek frowned at the newcomer, "And...whose this, General?"

"That's our master assassin and a member of the council of Yamakhroz, Shadow Master Udemi Lifetaker" Greil responded before turning his attention to the assassin, "What is the news?"

"The fortress has been abandoned by the enemy and it disappeared soon after," Udemi replied.

"I see... it's indeed a strange situation, very strange." Greil then turned to Traysek, "Maybe you can see some of the Shields' crime with your own eyes. Udemi, take him back to your village."

Udemi nodded before clapping her hand and Shadows took Traysek away.

When he regained consciousness, he found himself in a village where Dark Elves live, as well as a statue of the Earthmother in the center of the village.

The Redguard furrowed his brow, looking around at happy elves, walking around, talking along with laughing children running around, "What the hell...? I was just back there...how'd I end up here that fast...? was I knocked out?" as a small dark elf child ran straight through him, confirming it, "Right, I was knocked out...okay then...now what?"

"Damn it! You won't win again!" He heard, glancing at two young men nearby, playing a card game, "I will show you who's the best at this game!"

The other Dark Elf laughed as a small girl was behind him, "Try as much as you want, the result will be the same."

Traysek rose an eyebrow, walking up to the trio, inspecting the cards, 'interesting...it's almost like our card games...they seem to be going at it too,' rubbing his chin, turning his gaze to the small girl, 'I wonder who she is...getting a strong pull in this memory from her...And Greil did say a crime happened here,' frowning at the child, 'If I see her again in this memory, I'll know for certain...' moving away from the Trio.

He also noticed a lack of soldiers, scrunching his eyebrows at such before he blinked, finding himself in a house where the small girl appeared again, smiling as she was with an older man.

"You see if you add two and two but do a minus two afterward, the plus two will be removed with the minus two," he explained as he had a mathematics book open.

"Dad! Where's my sword?" the boy from earlier entered.

"There's no need. We're away from the frontlines and this village doesn't have any strategic value for the holy army." the father explained before an explosion sounded near them.

"You said?!" the boy looked out before his eyes became wide.

"Attacking this place doesn't make any sense!" the father went and grabbed a pair of swords, "Your weapon is in your room!"

The boy nodded as another explosion was heard, very close this time.

"Udemi! Go hide with your mother! Now!" the man yelled before exiting the house and the young man followed him with a longsword.

The Redguard went wide-eyed at that mentioning of the name, 'So this kid IS Udemi...okay, glad we got that sorted, and it seems like there's an attack outside too...' walking up to the window.

Holy knights were throwing bombs at the houses, and even at some civilians.

Traysek's expression went from skepticism to complete horror upon seeing that, hearing the soldiers laugh, along with the sounds of fabric being torn with screams. There were those on fire, running around trying to put themselves out while being cut down or shot in the process, one even banging up against the widow he was looking out from, skin melting off his face, succumbing to flames burning on him.

"By the gods...!" he gasped, moving away from the cracked window. There was no mistaking it, those were holy forces out there doing this, but why? he had wondered this watching the destruction unfold, shaking his head at it all, 'These are the good guys...? what are they doing?'

An older woman came out and took Udemi in her arms before running to a trap door.

Traysek spotted her heading to the door, following them, 'might as well see how far this rabbit hole goes, but I'm getting a feeling I won't like what's next...'

There was a small room in it.

"Don't worry, mommy will protect you." the woman gave a sad smile before closing her eyes, "Lord of the wind, bestow upon me your blessed weapon."

A greatsword appeared in her hands at the same time as a group of soldiers entered the house. not soon after the Trap door opened and a younger version of Grave got down with a couple of men.

"Well, well, it looks like we got ourselves a pair of meats." he said with a wicked grin, "Put the sword down and we will make it as painless as possible for both of you."

Traysek glared at the younger man in the middle, eyes going wide recognizing him, 'That's grave in his prime...so even back then he was a piece of shit...more evident now than currently...but...' his attention going back to the scene before him.

"If you think that I'm going to let do as you want with us, you're wrong." the woman glared before rushing with a horizontal slash that unleashed a burst of wind that threw the men away.

"An Elemental Priestess, just our luck..." Grave said as he got up, "but, you forgot something." he grinned before taking a bomb from his pouch, "We plan on fucking both of you all night."

The woman gritted her teeth, "I'd rather die than be with someone like you for a minute."

Grave sighed before saying, "Everyone knows how strong a single Elemental Priestess is. That's why I came prepared with the right plan to counter you, even if it would mean that we would lose one of you."

One of the other knights threw a knife toward Udemi, but her mother deflected it.

"You're wide open!" Grave threw the bomb at the woman's face as she didn't have the time to react.

The Dragonborn could do nothing but watch as the woman who was protecting her daughter, burn face first in agony in a violent scream, dropping her weapon as she crumpled there...Her daughter was traumatized as the men before her laughed, bringing his eyes to slit.

"Mommy... mommy... please, wake up..." Udemi crawled to her mother's body and she began to shake it lightly.

Then, as Grave and the two knights he had with were cackling like demons, shadows emerged around them all, making the Redguard frown while he looked around, spotting a large familiar black hand rises up in shadow behind the sobbing girl.

'I know that symbol...it's the dread father's...how did he get all the way out here...?' his attention now on one of the knights, who were leering at the young elf girl.

"Since I'm older than you in the order, I'll get to see how good she is." the knight walked and was about to touch the girl only to stop before being lifted and his body was forced into a weird and painful position, the sounds of bones breaking before he collapsed.

"What?!" Grave and the other knight took some steps back as Udemi stopped crying and began to look at the knights with dead eyes.

Traysek slightly backed up with a worried expression, 'Where did that come from...? did the shadows do that or did she...?" watching the last flunky with Grave draw his sword, shaking as he did.

"You... you are enemies... and you are threatening me with weapons." her voice became cold and her facial expression emotionless.

The two knights began to take steps back until a dark circle appeared beneath Udemi and was launched toward the second knight. Some sort of dark flames emerged from it, making the man scream until his flesh exploded, leaving only the bones.

'Crap! This is bad!' Grave bolted out as the girl walked slowly toward the trap door.

Traysek shook his head at that, 'He actually ran from a child, so much for him being a "hero" I wonder if anyone ever knew?'

Instead of climbing, a hand made of shadows lifted her up.

That stopped him for a second, frowning at the hand that just took her out of there, before cautiously following it out...coming out to a dark void...' Okay...now where am I?' stepping into something, a strong metallic scent hitting his nose, "That almost smells like blood...what is this I'm stepping in?" hearing a slosh in each step, as he wandered there.

...

Greil and Udemi were sitting on a chair, waiting for Traysek to wake from the vision travel.

"How long?" Greil asked.

"Soon," Udemi replied.

With a harsh gasp, he awoke in a chair, frowning at his sudden placement, "Gods, that was trippier than a flight of slippery stairs," rubbing his eyes, "I'm having a hard time trying to process all of that," bitterly chuckling with a head shake, "And they're supposed to be the "Good guys" what in oblivion...?"

"I'm sorry if the way to show the acts was sudden, but it was the only way I could have thought about at the moment," Greil stated as he bowed his head.

Traysek waved him down, "It's...alright, even if it was a bit...much..." rubbing the back of his head, "and that's only from just her memories...I know if I got to your lady Olga, I know more of what they've done will be shown...and I feel sick enough already...another day for that perhaps..." he sighed, "But, from that alone, most of you do not care for humanity here...I'm starting not to, and I was born for the purpose of serving man..."

"Were you really born to do that? Or perhaps you were born to do what you think is just." Greil pointed out, "Only we are masters of our powers, only we decide for what purpose they'd serve." Greil took a deep breath before adding, "As the champion of the Earthmother, I must protect every life on this world, nevertheless, there are sometimes when life isn't worth protecting because it would cause chaos and misery. I've tasted your powers twice; when we fought, and when I fought the Fox Reaper, and I'm sure that you think that your powers only serve one purpose, and that is not true. In Yamakhroz, our city, we live in unity as one. With the belief that power belongs to the holder, not the creator. It's true that we must respect their purpose, but it's impossible sometimes."

Traysek grinned, "That's... a certain way to look at that...I mean, I've killed enough bandits back home to know how true that is, but even then..." clearing his throat, "what I actually meant there, is that we Dragonborn aren't as human as you believe..." pointing to himself, "What you both now see of me, is only how human it gets...other than that, my soul and blood are that of a Dovah's...a Dragon's...hence the name, 'Dragonborn' " he explained "I didn't exactly understand myself until my predecessor explained it to me...despite how evil he was at the time...a "cosmic chewtoy" is how he described it..." sighing with a bitter chuckle, "But I can agree with my power being used for more than one purpose...and personally, I don't see myself ever raising another blade in their honor... Can't after that was shown to me...since Akatosh hasn't punished me over my side switch...I'm taking that as a good sign," turning to Greil, "You also mentioned a "Gronik" more than once actually, I'd like to meet him...especially who he could be..."

"That's interesting, "Blood and soul huh?" well that would explain the dragon-fire from both you and the fox," Greil nodded before saying, "Gronik must be looking over some men to escort the next caravans, and selecting the members of the Hunters' Outpost. If you wish, we can go to meet him right now."

Traysek nodded, "Sounds like a plan, but there's something to do first..." sighing, "Know where we can exchange our gold for Gems? since we're going to be around for a while, it may be good to get that switched over...and to possibly save the four morons that went out to eat without understanding the currency..." he chuckled.

"The exchange offices aren't that rare, you can know them with a sign showing gems and a dagger. One of those is on our way, you can get in to see how the exchange happens." Greil stated.

The Redguard stood up, stretching, "Good to know, and I think the others will appreciate it too...after I pay their bill off..." heading to the front door with Greil, "Inigo, we'll be back, ring me up if you need anything!" he called out, turning to the General, "Shall we?"

Greil nodded before turning to Udemi, "Send some Dark Blades to Geofu."

Udemi simply nodded before disappearing in the shadow.

"Well, I'm sure that you have other questions concerning us, ask," Greil stated as he began to walk alongside Traysek.

The Redguard looked around, noting the happy smiles everyone has as they passed, grinning himself, "A couple... This place is beautiful, General...human and monster are in harmony here, a feat one would think impossible... how'd you do it? get them all under your banner like this?"

"It wasn't easy." Greil answered, "It took us years of fighting, grief, hatred... in the end, everyone saw how useless it was to cause harm to others who wouldn't wish to cause harm. After all, a council of representatives of the first races and factions was made to keep the balance in the forces of Yamakhroz." he then looked at a banner displayed on a wall, "And it's not my banner, but our banner."

Traysek rose an eyebrow, looking at the banner as well, "I see, so these representatives have an equal rule here, and unlike the shields, they actually care for their people and maintain the power balance...I'm liking the concept more and more, hell, Tamriel could even take some notes," chuckling, "Being Serious there, we'd have a lot less wars fought, that's for sure,"

"Still, our system isn't flawless." Greil stated, "Some races, that recently joined couldn't have a seat due to how fragile the council really is. However, we found a way to counter that by making them under the protection of other council members."

Traysek nodded, "That's fairly reasonable actually, it's better than just leaving them out entirely or treating them like a lesser class and having them in slums, it's brilliant...flawless or not,"

"Still, it doesn't mean that we should let anyone in this city." Greil stated, "If the Shields ever knew of the existence of Yamakhroz, it would be a disaster for us. Thankfully, they think that we're just roaming the land."

"That's a good thing, it keeps them from suspecting this city, and given how vicious they were back there, I don't even want to imagine what they'd do to everyone here and the worst part is, I already know how that'd go..." Traysek sighed, scowling at the idea, "And I thought the Vigils of Stendarr were bad, this holy army makes them look like nice guys...and with the black dogs going rabid on top of that...there's no telling whose worse, is there...?" in a bitter chuckle, before going into thought 'There are Some exceptions to them though...I've met one of them, but even then, he's got his orders too...'

"With some luck, the traitors that joined the Black Dogs would be more of a hassle to them." Greil sighed before adding, "With how vast their army is going to be, they're going to need a lot of supplies. Not to mention that they're going to need to build a new base."

Traysek once again nodded, "Right, since the fortress has been taken to the Shivering Isles, they won't be having any luck there...guess master Sheo came through after all..." chuckling, "Gives us enough time to rest and gear up while they lick their wounds," spotting a sign with a dagger and a gem, "I think we're here,"

When they entered, they saw a bee girl who immediately fell on one knee when she saw Greil.

"General! What can we do for you today!" She stated out loud as a couple of orcs and Salamanders knelt as well.

"At ease." Greil said before adding, "We need you to exchange gold for some gems."

"Right!" the bee girl turned to Traysek and said, "Sir, how much gold do you have?"

The Redguard frowned before pulling out a heft coin purse, "Just a good 6000 to start off with, I really just want to see how this works before I bring the rest of what I got here," handing her the heavy coin bag.

An orc took the bag and put it on a scale before turning to the bee girl, "Sixty kilograms."

"I see..." the girl began to make some math before looking at Traysek, "That would make four opals and seven amethysts. Unless you want to exchange more."

The Redguard waved her down with a smile, "That's fine with me, and since I know how you do this now, I have more I can bring later, might as well do something with all that treasure we've got onboard,"

"Well, I think that we should be off to meet Gronik." Greil said as the bee girl handed Traysek the gems.

The Redguard pocketed the Gem pouch, nodding, "Thank you," turning to General, "Yeah, I'm good to go, let's meet the man," walking out of the door with Greil.

In a room, Gronik was standing next to a table with a communication crystal on it.

"Three units to the Hunters' Outpost. Five hunters, four rounds of guards, ten sentries, five meat workers, three centaurs, and a combat unit composed of five Minotaur guards, four Kletzkrieg members, four Kitsune archers, and two Dark Blades." he listed.

"Understood, sir!" a feminine voice came out of the crystal, "How about the caravans' escort?"

"I still need time to think over it." Gronik said before adding, "The next caravan should depart in three days, so I'll have the unit ready."

"Understood." the crystal's energy died out as Gronik sighed.

"Considering that the caravans travel day and night, I should put some Night Watchers... But I doubt that would be enough..." he stated before some hands covered his eyes.

"Guess who is it~" it was a young-looking woman, with blond short hair made into two short braids. She had red eyes and a smaller to medium-sized bust. Her attire consists of a crimson coat over a crimson suit.

"Kurenai, I'm still working, can't it wait until we get home?" Gronik asked as he turned to look at the young woman.

"Do you honestly believe that I can wait?" she grinned as she pushed up to him, "I won't have any mercy this night."

"Like always..." Gronik sighed before hearing knocking.

"Sir! The General is here to see you with someone!" a guard yelled.

'Greil... you saved me here.' "Let them in!" He commanded as the door was opened.

"Sorry to bother you now, but our guest wanted to meet you," Greil said while entering.

Traysek being the last the enter, came upon a man in silver armor along with a blonde woman in red, seemingly together. They both gave him an overall stare as he neared them, stopping to give the General a quick frown, "You know, they looked like they were about to get busy there, feels like we just interrupted something," turning to the couple, "Sorry about that, but as the General says, I've been eager to meet with you, especially with how your name kept coming up..." his smile turning into a smirk, "You wouldn't be by chance from Cyrodill would you...?"

"Based on your appearance, the fact that you know Cyrodill... you're a Redguard, right?" Gronik asked, "Well, I didn't think that our guest would be someone from Tamriel."

"That's right, from Hammerfell born and raised, although I did live in Skyrim before coming here," Traysek grinned, "Wow it wasn't just a rumor...you're the real deal... I happen to know a history geek that would be drooling in your presence right now..." he laughed, "Oh that right, where are my manners...? I'm Captain Traysek of the Red Dragon crew and current Dragonborn, once again, it's pleasure to meet you," giving an introductory bow, "Like I told your General, I'm more than happy to lend a hand with this corruption and the dogs..."

"Dragonborn, huh?" Gronik walked up to him before saying, "If I was still a blade, I would have been on a knee right now. But, I left that behind."

Traysek waved him down, "It's fine actually, you wouldn't want to associate yourself with them anyway, considering the last few survivors are on the stupid side of things...I was done with helping them the second they wanted me to kill master Paarthurnaax...nevermind that he had already made up with Humanity by teaching us the thu-um, but that's not good enough for them apparently..." shaking his head at the memory, "Idiots..."

"A Blade is sworn to serve the Dragonborn no matter what." Gronik's tone was harsh, "Whoever thinks that it should be the other way around and call themselves a Blade should be put to death."

Traysek was slightly taken aback by how quickly his voice changed, nodding in agreement, "Most would agree with you...hell, I wanted to do it, but it's not worth it...they can rot in Sky haven temple for all I care, I'm just not going to do anything for them..ANYTHING...and that's worse than killing them,"

"The honor of the Blades is now tarnished..." the Imperial sounded really depressed, "If master Joffre is still around, they would be on their knees, ready to be beheaded."

The Redguard sighed, shaking his head, "I don't think that guy or any of the old blades are really around, excluding the two I just mentioned...Most of the blades did not survive the Thalmor purge...and that's not just in Skyrim either..."

"Thalmor... Chancellor Ocato did warn me that a faction of High Elf was on the move, but I didn't know that it would be that bad..." Gronik stated, "Moreover, I think that it was them who sent me here."

"I could see the motive in that, you being a legend in that time as well as a powerful blades member, it's possible, or perhaps another force...you never know with Tamriel..." Traysek nodded, "But one thing's for certain, Tamriel is not the same as you left it 200 years ago..."

"By the Nine Divines... Can you at least confirm that Chancellor Ocato is still alive?" Gronik asked with a tone that's almost sad.

Traysek gave a sad sigh, "If we're talking about High chancellor Ocato...I've read about him, good mage, there are many spell tomes in his name... He was unfortunately murdered fourteen years into 4th Era...no one knows who or what did it, some say it was infighting within the imperial walls, others say it was thalmor hit...either way, we won't find the murderer either...supposing he's dead too,"

"How about the Grand Champion of the Arena, Kallan?" Gronik's tone was near pleading to hear something good, "What happened to her?"

"Now...that, I'm not too sure about... I'd never heard about her until today...I wouldn't know what happened to her... my knowledge on the imperial city is rather limited...perhaps Lucien knows something about that," Traysek said, rubbing the back of his neck, "Again though, it's been 200 years since...unless they've got the Corpus disease or they're vampires, I don't see most people from around that time being alive...I'm so sorry about that..." he apologized...

"Tamriel changed so much..." Gronik sighed before continuing, "The Blade lost their honor and were hunted, Ocato died, and Kallan's fate is unknown."

"You mustn't despair." Greil said as he smiled, "If you still live, they are still alive... in your heart. As long as you remember them, they shall never die."

Traysek nodded with a smile, "He's not wrong, they may not physically be here anymore, but they do live there and that's what matters...If I can open a way back home, I'll have no problem showing you how much has changed...I'd tell you more but...another day perhaps,"

"Maybe one day I'll go back... to see how much changed." his tone then became dark, "And to show those so-called Blades, how wrong they are..."

"You plan to use a Heartstone to come back?" Greil asked, getting a nod from the Imperial Hero.

"A heartstone?' is it the same kind of Volcanic heart stone or is this something else?" The Redguard asked, raising an eyebrow.

Gronik pulled a white stone with a sky-blue rune on it from his pouch and said "Heartstones are mystical stones that can be bonded to a place."

"One only needs to concentrate their will in them to activate them." Greil added, "Their power can even transcend existence as it can teleport you to the person that bonded the stone to a place."

Gronik nodded before stating, "In Yamakhroz, innkeepers can bind these stones."

"Don't worry, we plan on delivering six to you with a bond to your house," Greil said.

Traysek smiled at that, "Thank you, we'll definitely need those to get around," turning to Gronik, "Also, if you have any old armor or weapons you're not using, I'll be happy to put them to actual use...along with learning any combat techniques or magic, I'm not above learning anything new...especially with who we'll be fighting with soon..." giving him a knowing grin.

"Well, there's the armory," Greil stated.

"We did agree to let them in... as long as they don't step in the areas reserved for the Deathbringers and the Dark Blades," Gronik added.

Traysek frowned, "I met one of the dark blades Recently...but who are these deathbringers? they almost sound like the companions back home from the sound of it,"

"They are the elite among the elite of the elite of the Kletzkrieg." Gronik answered.

"They are our last resort as only one of them can kill an army with ease." Greil added, "But only five Dark Elves managed to get to that rank."

"Honestly, just one of them protected an entire village from 65000 men of the Holy Army, without getting a single scratch on his armor." The woman added.

Traysek whistled, "Shit...my own men can't even do that, 40 men? guaranteed, but 65000? no way...given my powers, I could do it, but that takes a lot of power to do and I'm winded after that...seems like they can do it effortlessly though...that's impressive, very..." nodding in approval, "My only hope is if we cross paths or meet, they aren't hostile to US...cause' we won't be with them,"

"Well, even if their name is Deathbringers, they aren't that bloodthirsty." Greil pointed, "As long as no harm was done, they won't attack."

The Redguard thought about that, "Oh ok, so it's just how skilled they are, got it...I'll be sure to pass the word around, wouldn't want anything to start if there is none," he chuckled, "That said, I'll make sure we stay away from that section the armory, my crew is usually pretty good about this kind of thing, so there shouldn't be a problem..."

"For the skills, we can see with the training units to add you with the others," Gronik said.

"As for the magic, the Archive should have plenty of books and scrolls that describe magic," Greil added.

Traysek nodded at that, "Well then, we'll pop over there and see what those are about, we can take a few days to prepare ourselves, I think the mates would appreciate that more...Gods know I do, thank you both for the opportunity...and for letting us stay here, despite our history..." rubbing the back of his neck.

"The past is in the past." Greil replied, "And those errors were caused by your ignorance of this world."

Traysek shrugged, "No denying that they turned out to be dirtier than the slums of Riften...first feeding hand and all," he chuckled, until a thought occurred to him, "And speaking of "Feeding" I need to make sure my men didn't get in trouble on their first day here..." offering a handshake "it was nice meeting you Lord Gronik, hoping to work with you soon,"

"Please, drop the 'Lord' thing." Gronik replied as he grabbed his hand, "I'm not at the same level as the Dragonborn."

Traysek laughed, "Not a fan of titles huh? I feel the same way, alright Gronik it is..." turning to the blonde woman, "And you as well...uh...sorry I didn't get your name earlier..."

"The name's Shinganji Kurenai" she responded.

"Charmed," The Redguard bowed, turning to Greil, "Are you staying here Greil, or coming along?"

"Depends on where you're heading," Greil replied.

"As I said, I need to make sure my crew didn't get themselves arrested, If the books are there when we get back to our house, we'll check out the armory, see what they've got there," Traysek said, "If not, I understand that too, I'll ask a guard where they've gone,"

"Well, you're going to need a guide if I'm not mistaken," Greil stated.

The Redguard frowned, thinking about that, "That's true, I would like to know my way around, okay then, and because I don't know where they are..." pulls out the radio, "One second..." clicking the button, "This is Traysek, calling in, is anyone there?"

"Reading you loud and clear sir, is anything wrong?" Erik's voice responded.

"Not exactly, where are you all at?" He asked, frowning at the radio.

"We're at something called a cafe' Record seemed to know what they are...we're just about to finish up here, why?"

Traysek sighed in relief, "So you haven't had to pay yet...that's good because they don't take gold as a currency here, gotta use gems to pay for anything in these parts,"

The line had gone silent for a moment putting a hard frown on him, "Really...? that's it? by the gods, this couldn't get any better...you won't have to worry there, we still have a few from the last adventures we went on..." Erik chuckled.

"Alright then, crisis averted...I'll meet up with you all later, if you see a couple of people at the house they are bringing what we'll need...do...not...attack them...I know how you guys get," Traysek warned.

"We won't, we'll make sure to hold off on that, promise...but where are you going to be boss?"

Traysek turned his head to Greil, "Got a few things to check out, so I'll be out for a bit...Inigo's up and about, should be making arrows for that bow of his,"

"Okay, see you soon...I'll let the others know about the other thing too,"

The line clicked, ending the call...Traysek nodded in satisfaction, glancing up at Greil "Now with that out of the way, how about that warehouse, big guy?"

Greil nodded before exiting Gronik's office.

---

At the cafe'

---

All four plates of dishes were nearly empty, some still had remnants of their food left, as well as a large section of Recorder's pie... the crew was laid back in their chairs.

Recorder had a satisfied grin, "That was...that was something...I think I'm good on a minute for sweets..."

"You think?" Yuriana laughed, "I should ask for a recipe for that pretzel, your pie too, that was pretty good, thanks for sharing a piece,"

"I could come back here again, those crepes were worth it..." Lucien commented, "I wondered what they used for it..."

Erik gave him an annoyed look, "Now why you gotta ask that? if it ain't killin' anybody, it's not something to worry about,"

"I suppose, but one does have to wonder...good as all that was," The imperial responded.

Record gave a relieved sigh, before a thought occurred, "So, now that we've pigged out...whose paying the bill...?"

The group went silent upon that, the imperial clearing his throat...

"Well, I've got some gold left over, but that depends on how expensive all that was..." he said, pulling out a medium-sized bag.

Erik shook his head "Don't bother with that, the boss called me to tell you all, that they don't accept gold as payment here...apparently, they take Gems as that,"

Yuriana's eyes widened in surprise, "Really now?" a smile growing, "I can probably pay this then, I still have all the gems you guys traded me...might as well use them," standing up, "I'll be right back," heading to the cashier.

When she got there, the Redhead gave the woman a smile, "Hello there, my friends and I are done with our meals, we'd like the bill now..."

The young woman with cow horns and cow ears smiled before looking over their table, "Let's see... your total is two Agates and four Ambers."

Yuriana frowned, going for a gem pouch, unable to find the mentioned gems, but she did find an emerald, fishing it out, "I don't have those gems in particular, but I do have an Emerald...will that do?" placing it on the counter.

The Cow Girl smiled nervously as she said while taking the Emerald, "Well, I guess that I should return to you... nine Sapphires, nine Spinels, nine Aquamarines, nine Opals, nine Amethysts, nine Turquoises, seven Agates, and six Ambers." She then handed to her a bag of gems.

Yuri looked at the amount given back, impressed by it, "It's been a pleasure, thank you," leaving the cashier.

When she returned, she closed the bag up, "Paid the bill, we're good to go,"

The others stood up, stretching and yawning...

"So how much did have to pay them for?" Record asked.

"Surprisingly...it took one emerald, got this back in exchange," The Redhead said, showing off the hefty bag, "Did Traysek say anything else about these Gems?"

Erik nodded, "Yeah, said we'll all be getting something that explains those along with other things, he also said he'll be out for a bit..."

Lucien whistled at the amount, "I'm liking their idea with them, usually we just turn them into weapons, yeah, I hope it's a book on that, would take the time to study it,"

"Speaking of that, we should get going," Recorder added in, being the first to the door.

"Agreed," Yuriana responded with, following her with Erik and Lucien behind.

In Ken, in Celestine's room, the Goddess Reborn sat in silence as the event of today shook her quite a bit.

"Why..."

A knock was on her door as she saw Swain coming in.

"It's rare to see you like this." he stated as he took a seat and sat next to her, "What are you going to do now?"

"I don't know..." Celestine replied with a sad tone.

"The fact that more than half of the nobility that was supporting you turned their back on you shows how much control you really had," Swain said before feeling something.

A large slithering shadow appeared on the ground, making its way to them, bubbling as the serpent rose from it, growing in size...the expression was a displeased one as he shook his head, "Goddess Celestine...we need to talk..." his voice deep and emotionless, "I think you know why too..." narrowing his eyes on her.

Celestine looked down as Swain said, "A Dragon God... not as strong as that celestial cosmic dragon, but strong nonetheless."

"I'm displeased with how all that went back here...your people unwilling to listen and understand a much bigger problem...even more displeased, that despite everything my champion told you, you refused to act on it or even silence your paladin..." Satakal coldly, "If I didn't know better, it's as if you enjoy being in bondage to these mortals"

"You talk like you know everything about her." Swain remarked as the shadows in the room began to get darker, "Celestine knew that if she said yes, her people would have been murdering each other. Instead, she tried to calm the tensions to make sure that Ken and the Alliance stays unified."

"It's alright, uncle Swain... I... I know how unfit I am to be the Goddess Reborn..." Celestine said as she began to sob.

"You are more than worthy." Swain put a hand on her head, "You may need a guiding hand, but you're not hopeless."

Satakal had an unamused stare at the older man, unfazed by his growing power, "Know your place, this is the only time I'll say it... and she had more than enough power to do something back there, those little mortals knew it, just like we do...right, Swain of Noxus?" Cutting his gaze to Celestine who was sobbing, "And you... You're crying just over my displeasure...? You have no idea what's coming for you, do you? I'm not talking about those Black dog fools, they're just the catalysts to it...Something as divine as us, but darker is coming for Eostia...for YOU...if my little Quip was enough to get you like this, I don't even want to imagine what that dark divinity will do when he gets to you..." he finished, with narrowed eyes before sighing, softening them, "Do you truly want the peace you seek...? to truly protect your people...? then the time of inaction must come to an end...no longer can you depend on the undependable...it's costing you and it will keep costing you until you get the backbone to stand up your court..."

"You keep talking like you have all the answers." Swain stated, "You gods are all the same; so blind that they think that they can. You arrived here a year, and you think that you know how to solve every problem."

Satakal gave him a cold dark stare, the room darkening, "You know, I was just about to thank you for helping my champion escape, but now...?" his eyes glowed a stone white color, "Now, I think you're better off as a statue..." , causing a flashing light, turning him to stone, "Should've minded your tone, mortal...next time, take the advice...!"

The statue fell to pieces and Celestine was horrified.

"Uncle... Swain..." her eyes were wide as she began to touch the rest of the statue.

Satakal stared at the destroyed statue, rolling his eyes when he could still sense Swain, 'So that's how we're playing this...how clever...' Glancing back at the sobbing woman, "Oh come now, you actually fell for this...? his energy is still here," Folding his six arms, as she stopped sobbing.

"Go away..." her voice was now cold.

Satakal rose an eyebrow, "Hm? What? you're going to have to speak up little one, I can't hear you from your self-pity..." giving her an unimpressed stare.

"I said GO AWAY!" Celestine generated all of her power as rage could be seen in her eyes, "GET OUT OF MY SIGHT, YOU MONSTER!"

Now this actually surprised him, as well as the room shaking, a low chuckle came from him, "Well...this is certainly new, where was this 700 years ago?" Smirking at her glare "That burning in your chest? it's called anger, get used to the feeling, little one...you're going to need it," A circle formed under him, "Be seeing you, Goddess Reborn..." Warping out of there.

Celestine sighed before sitting back on her chair, "Uncle Swain..."

A flap of wings snapped her attention as she saw a raven landing next to her, "A little bit late and I'd be done..."

"Uncle Swain?" Celestine looked at the raven as tears began to form.

"I'm regaining my strength." Swain began, "Surviving that deadly blow was taxing on both my body and my soul. But don't worry, I'm not dead, and I don't plan to die anytime soon."

"U-Uncle Swain!" with incredible speed, Celestine grabbed the bird as she was hugging it with joy.

"Now, now." Swain said as the raven tried to escape Celestine's grasp, "I'm going to regain my human form if you would let Beatrice help."

Celestine nodded before putting the bird on the ground, as it shaped up and became Swain.

"Now that's more like it." Swain checked himself before being tackled with a hug from Celestine, "Celestine, you know that you should be more aware of your appearance, right?"

"But I thought that I- that you-"

"Come now my dear, I've seen death and laughed at its face before putting it in its place." Swain proclaimed before seeing Grave entering the room, fuming.

"I want that pirate son of a bitch...! he killed three of my men!" He growled, "I just got done giving their family their condolences...good men lost today..."

"Grave... do you know where you are right now?" Swain asked with a cold voice.

The man flinched before regaining his posture, "Shut your mouth! I know the Reaper is one of them! If she didn't die in that fire that randomly started in the lower districts, I would have gone to deal with her first!"

"All I see is a talking pig that believes himself to be my equal," Swain said as he took two steps toward him, making the knight go for his sword.

"Enough!" Celestine snapped, "Leave me alone... now..."

"Very well..." Swain nodded before turning to Grave, "Also, your men are alive. I graciously offered them a place in my army in exchange for saving their lives."

"What did you just say?!" the anger could be read on Grave's face.

"Instead of giving up, you should have seen if it was possible to save them." Swain simply walked past him.

'That son of a fucking whore!' Graves nearly drew his sword, 'First, he took my village! And now, three of my best men! I will make him pay!' he then stormed off, 'Time to see if he can repel fifteen armed men!' he smirked as he walked toward the barracks.

---

Yamakhroz Armory...

At the entrance of a large warehouse, Traysek and Greil stood outside, the former whistled at the crowd going in.

"So this must be the armory, seems like a popular one too," The Redguard commented.

"Most of the citizens joined the ranks as soldiers, and the Armory is where they come to equip themselves. Of course, you'll be allowed to step into the area designated to the Kletzkrieg. That was the best that I could do." Greil explained.

Traysek waved him down, "It's fine, I figured I wouldn't be able to use theirs either, but that should do...besides, I might look for something in the adventurer isle if they've got one,"

"These are not for adventurers but for soldiers." Greil pointed out, "Adventurers of the Adventurer's Guild tend to buy their equipment from blacksmiths in the Market District. Soldiers, come to get equipped in the Armory."

The Redguard hummed at that, "So it's a military armory, I see...okay then, let's see what kind of toys they got here," walking into the building.

Greil smiled while shaking his head, before following him inside.

"As you can see, you've got a lot of choices in the weapons and armor. Some of them were made to Gronik, but he didn't like how they looked as he's trying to appear the least dangerous as possible." he said before pointing to an armor, "Especially this one."

Traysek spotted the dark dragon-like armor, with what looked like thorns donning metal thorns on the arms, there was also a silver spear in its hand, gleaming as much as the armor did, with the design of a skull and thorns surrounding it.

"I'm liking this one, including the weapon it comes with too, I'm hoping they can be modded or tempered..."

"Gronik didn't like it since it inspire fear instead of hope. After all, one should be the hope of the others that he should protect, not fear." Greil stated.

Traysek frowned upon that, but nodded, "For that reason huh? I can understand that, but sometimes fear is a good thing, in the case of our enemies...it would be more of an Asset, not a liability..." grinning at the set, "That said, I think I know what armor I'm choosing..."

"Of course, try to leave some to the others," Greil said.

"I'm still going to browse for other things, maybe crafting books on certain weapons, but I'm definitely coming back to get this one..." The Redguard nodded, continuing through the warehouse.

---

Near the City of Ur...

---

As the group of knights under Niall's orders entered, they found many men and monsters dead.

"Killing them so we can't take any information from them, smart." Niall looked around before adding, "Look around for anything that might help us find something that can be used to determine the mastermind in Feoh!"

Reynold looked around, inspecting the cuts and wounds on the men and monsters, finding clean cuts to their throats and other vital areas, 'whoever did this to these guys is a pro...we should be more careful here...there's no telling if the culprit is still around,' Walking up to Niall, "Sir, I've investigated the bodies, whoever did this is precise all of those cuts are clean..."

"That's easy to see." Niall stated, "What we need is to know who helps them keep a low profile."

"I'll keep an eye out..." Rey nodded, going off to investigate...

As soon as he was a distance from Niall, Reynold began to scan the crime scene, spotting few to barely drops of blood on the walls, 'Not surprised on that lack of blood, clearly didn't want to leave a mess...' looking over the bodies, finding that limbs were all still attached on, 'Limbs are still attached, no signs of gore on any of these corpses...weird...even professionals get brutal from time to time,' noticing some had their weapons in their sheathes, 'Most of them didn't even draw...this was unprovoked' frowning to himself, until he spotted a glint on the ground, walking towards it, finding it to be a bloodied kunai, picking it up, 'Was this the murder weapon? from the looks of it, it seems eastern...hold on...that shinobi from before, could he have done this...?' he wondered...that was until a sickly sweet smell hit his nose, causing him to cringe, he looked around to find the scent to be coming from the kunai, taking a sniff at it, 'Is this... perfume...? that shinobi back there didn't seem to be wearing any...wait...he did mention a lady "Oboro" could this be...' Eyes going wide, "Commander! I think I found something over here," calling out to Niall.

Niall walked to him and frowned when he got near him, "That... I doubt that a man would smell this fine. Well, a man like them." he looked around before saying, "There must be more. Keep searching!" he then turned to Rey, "What do you think?"

"The Killer was definitely a woman, either she got the jump on these poor sods or they couldn't react quick enough, kept it very clean too, with barely any blood on the walls...had to be a shinobi like the other one we ran into...my guess, is that it was this "Oboro" I've heard mentioned..."

"This further proves that the Dogs have a hand in this. Even so, there must be something that we can use to get to who helps them." Niall looked around before saying, "If anyone finds something, he must bring it to me."

"Sir!" a soldier walked to Niall, "Look at what I've found."

Niall took the paper and looked at it.

"The fact that they know what villages were visited by the lass to recruit men for her army means that it's someone that knows a lot of things." Niall mumbled, "Someone close to the court... someone like-"

Niall reacted in time to stop an attack that was aimed at Rey.

Reynold was in a cold sweat when reacted to the deflected kunai, quickly drawing his blade, "Looks like she hasn't left yet, come on out coward!"

"You've got quite a sharp tongue, for a weak and pathetic little boy who's overcompensating for his "Little sword"." a feminine voice answered, "I didn't know that the great commander Niall, the one who stood against an army of Orcs and Imps, would honor the little me by his presence here."

"Just come out." Niall said as he looked at a dark corner, "I knew that something was here, but had doubts."

A giggle was heard as a purple-haired woman walked from it.

"Now that's a man who can break any woman in bed." she said as she looked at Niall, "The perfect bitch-breaker when perfectly trained."

"That's none of your business." Niall pointed her with his weapon, "Either come with us calmly, or you'll lose a limb."

"Are you sure that you can fight me? Even with that weak little boy who'll slow you down?" she asked with a smirk before taking a couple of weapons.

"Fufufu, try to entertain me, Commander," she smirked.

Rey growled, about to take a step forward until a hand was thrown to stop him, "Commander?"

"You don't stand a chance against her." the old man said, "Get out of here, I might not assure your survival otherwise..." his eyes were focused on the woman in front of him.

"Such a passionate look. You're such a dirty old man, commander," she said with a fake motion to cover herself.

Reynold's stomach twisted upon hearing that, which worsen when Niall ordered him to leave...his eyes shadowed over, "Commander Niall, understand this... I will obey your orders to the letter...except for that one," narrowing his glare on the woman, "I will not leave you alone with this...Degenerate...you need me for support, US for support, I will wait for the opportunity..." stepping far back from them, eyes full of conviction "Go and get her sir...!"

"What a bunch of idiots..." Niall then smirked before a frosty wind gathered around him and golden lightning began to emanate from his body, "A bunch of idiots that I'm proud of!"

He charged forward while dragging his blade on the ground

---

Yamakhroz, house basement...

---

Inigo was fletching his new arrows, already done over fifteen while working on the next one...As he did this, his thoughts went back to how things went in the black fortress, the sickening leers those men had towards his friends, gritting his teeth, before how things went back in the holy capital...

"Corrupted mooks... can't believe the boss and us even helped them despite..." he grumbled, the memory of the slaves hitting him while finishing his current arrow.

He continued to do this, until he heard a thump upstairs, putting him on alert when his ears rose, "Guys? is that you up there?" he called up, getting no answer, narrowing his eyes and drawing a dagger, proceeding carefully upstairs.

"I hate last-minute deliveries." it was a Minotaur with one horn broken, and with him was a Dark Elf.

"You know that's our job since we are with the resource department." the Dark Elf reminded before taking a piece of paper, "Six bounded Heartstones and six guides to Yamakhroz. Now, I can get back to my nap."

Inigo opened the door, surprising them, keeping a hand behind his back, blinking twice, "Oh, hello...who are you...?"

Both of them looked at him as the Minotaur said, "You must be the Felinefolk. We're from the resource department to deliver these to you."

Inigo rose an eyebrow at that, until it dawned on him, "Oh right, I heard something about that earlier...thank you both, I'll hold on to them until the others get back," putting the dagger away, before approaching the men, taking the box, "Much appreciated, sorry I didn't hear you guys knock," he chuckled taking the box to a table, "Do I need to sign anything?"

"Nah!" the Dark Elf replied with a wave of the hand, "Just make sure that you don't lose them, the office won't make other copies."

The blue khajiit nodded, "Okay, I'll keep that in mind, thanks!" cracking open the box with his claw, grabbing one of the books, "First dibs..."

"Well, I guess that we're off." the minotaur said as both of them left Inigo with the books and the Hearthstones.

A few minutes go by of Inigo going over the book, and a knock at the door gets his attention.

"Again?" going to the door, "Who is it?"

"It's us, Inigo, we're in for the night," Erik's voice called from behind the door, the khajiit opening it, letting them in.

"My friends, I figured you would be out exploring the city," Inigo greeted, as the four of them piled in.

Recorder sighed, "We were until we decided that after eating all of that, it was time to call it in, my fatigue finally caught up with me," yawning and stretching.

"We also came back, because we heard of some books and stones being delivered here," Lucien added in, "Might as well try to understand this land's rules,"

Inigo nodded his head towards the table, "Some guys just dropped those off, I already got mine from there,"

"So they already came? damn those guys work fast," Yuriana whistled, "Also, is the boss here? Noticed it's just you here,"

"I think he's still out with the General about the gems, I haven't had contact with him in a while, but I'll assume he's ok," The blue khajiit shrugged.

Recorder frowned upon that, "Why wouldn't he be...? If he's with Greil, he should be fine,"

"That's what I'm thinking, knowing him, since he got a new weapon already, I guarantee he's going for armor next..." Inigo concluded.

Yuriana slowly nodded, "Sounds about right, so I guess until he gets back, those books?"

"Right over here," The khajiit said, leading them to the books...

---

Weapon's warehouse...

---

Traysek and Greil were both now at the counter, the former waiting until the other guy took his order, walking up to the cashier.

"Good day, I would like to purchase that dark-looking armor with the spear," He said, pointing down at it, "That one right there,"

"That's... well, it's not like it was loved by the owner. Some would say that he despised it. But still, it's powerful and durable. It will be 3 Spinels and 1 Sapphire." she replied.

Traysek cringed, checking his gem bag to find only the Amythests and opals, "Oof...I probably got an emerald somewhere in here, if not, I can make a quick warp to the ship for it," checking his other pockets for either Emerald or Sapphire.

"No need to worry." Greil took two Sapphires and put them on the counter, "Keep the change."

"T-Thank you general!" the cashier bowed her head in a hurry.

The Redguard had an eyebrow raised, surprised by that, "Just like that? And I don't have to pay anything back? I'm good for it,"

"Consider it an act of good faith." Greil replied before looking at his armor, "Speaking of which, I think that I should change this set."

He winced at the damage made to the armor, knowing that was his work, "Good faith huh? I see, once again, thank you," Traysek thanked, turning to the cashier, "So how does this work? you deliver, because I know I can't wear this out of here,"

"You can." the cashier stated, "It's yours now. Of course, you can ask for someone to deliver it to your armory or home. Normally, it would cost 3 Amethysts, but since the payment is way past that it would be free."

The Redguard nodded, "Could you do that? I don't want to ruin it by wearing it now, it still looks brand new despite how long it's been here...and I can apply some touches as soon as it gets there,"

"Where do you want it delivered?" the cashier asked.

"The 5th living district, house 45,"

"It shall be done by tomorrow." the cashier assured.

"I'll keep an out, pleasure doing business," The Redguard said, turning to Greil, "I think I'm done here, unless you want that new armor you were talking about, I can wait,"

Greil laughed before saying, "I have my own blacksmith. Rather, the one who exclusively makes armor and weapons for the Deathbringers."

"I see, so you don't even have to get a set from here, okay then," Traysek nodded, "Think it's time I turned in for the night, see if those books finally arrived,"

"If you need anything, just ask the guards," Greil replied.

"I'll be sure to, but I know my way back from here," The Redguard said, turning for the exit, "be seeing you soon Greil," waving back, leaving the warehouse while waving back.

---

In his office, Swain closed his eyes and sighed.

"Time is starting to be important. The Black Dogs will move in... two weeks at best, giving us time to prepare ourselves." he looked at the maid and said, "How're the bodies?"

Del smiled and said, "Tomorrow, they will be ready to have the new souls that you molded."

"Good, I'm going to need them to keep Grave in check." Swain stated, "As for Celestine, I think that it's time to reform the Shields to what they really should be; defenders of Eostia, not only the humans and their interest... their corrupted interest."

"How about the current Shields?" Del asked.

"Claudia is already losing the support of the people thanks to Grave's actions." Swain answered, "With the recent events, and if the last 'Parley' that Celestine had with Olga didn't wake her, I feel that I must step up myself."

"That would be bad for the Shields." the maid smiled, "After all, it's been too long since the apparition of Raum."

"They'd better hope that would never happen again." Swain stated, "The last time, was to protect Celestine from the humans of the Ur kingdom."

"Does she remember it?"

"She was too little and it was a bit traumatic for her." Swain pointed, "It's time to put Celestine in her right place... as the ruler of Thorn."

"You do plan to fight that sadistic general, right?" the maid gave him a cup of tea.

"We will see." Swain sighed before his eyes became bright red and he looked at the distance, "Time to begin the games... Dark God."

---

In a ruined village, Volt stood next to an Orc who had a crystal in his hand.

"That damn pirate double-crossed us and sold the fortress to some sort of god!" the merc yelled.

"He did what?!" Grave's voice reached out.

"I had to fight his forces and nearly died." Volt added, "But don't worry, the plan will be in motion soon. Just the time to fortify this place and to see with the last Orcs, Ogres, and Imps to join us."

"And the city?" Grave asked.

"That beast escaped before that I could do anything to get the information." Volt replied before slamming a wall with his hand, "If it wasn't for him, I would have tortured both the dark bitch and her pet to get what we need!"

"How much time until to march on Feoh?" Grave asked.

"About 18 days." Volt replied, "Xunaakt is doing his best to complete his task."

"Let's hope that it doesn't backfire on us," Grave replied before cutting the communication.

---

To be continued...

---

So with that ending, our bad guys are still scheming...with the loss of the fortress, The black dogs's plan have been pushed back...but the major players are still a threat...will the crew truly be ready for whatever comes at them?

PSA: So, I know many of you are also confused if not upset that I had them leave the alliance...so for those that understand, you know...but for those that don't, I'll explain it...While I could have done it like that...there are so many stories of the hero becoming a holy knight, killing all the monsters and black dogs, and getting a harem after...The night unfurls did this as well as the irregular and a few other mentionables...I wanted to break away from that chain and take this in another direction...Overall though, they will still kill the black dogs and their allies, as well as save Eostia in the long run, but I'm just not going to make them bootlicking holy knights after what they've seen for them to accomplish this...if any of you have questions or thoughts to share on that, do let me know...

Once again, those that understand, you get it...those that didn't, well, now you do...

Until the next chapter, may the gods watch over your stories friends :)